The New Tri-State Defender - February 9-15, 2023

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February 9 - 15, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 6

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“The Urban Hymnal” album cover. (Photo by Garrett Morris via TSU News Service)

TSU’s ‘Aristocrat of Bands’ marches into Grammy history

Georgia King stayed on the “battlefield” for numerous community-based groups and efforts during decades of service to Memphis, and the African American community in particular. She died on Feb. 7 at 82. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/ The New Tri-State Defender)

TSU Newsroom

Georgia King, ‘Mother King’ and ‘Queen Akua’ – a three-in-one community builder – dies at 82

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Georgia King, a ubiquitous voice for social justice issues, died Feb. 7.

She was 82.

Usually dressed in African apparel, Ms. King was frequently seen at a host of seminars, conferences and other public events advocating for economic empowerment for distressed communities, the poor and the homeless.

At the time of her death, Ms. King was working to open Miracles Mission for the Homeless on South Main Street. She wanted to devise long-term solutions for the homeless problem.

Ms. King was named a Memphis and Shelby County Woman of Achievement in 1994. She founded the Memphis Bus Riders Union in 2012.

In 2018, she was honored with the MLK 50 Award for Leadership and Activism.

The respect for her advocacy was reflected in the titles her supporters bestowed upon her, such as Mother King and Queen Akua.

“We called her Queen Akua,” said Dr. Omar Baruti. “The name ‘Akua’ means ‘sweet messenger,’ and that’s just what she was. When I left my office, I went to the hospital to see her, but I was told she had just transitioned before I arrived.”

As a young activist, Ms. King was bold and fearless. In 1989, King was one of the leaders in the Southern contingency with the New Exodus Walkers. It was a march to the steps of the nation’s Capitol to demand lawmakers look at the plight of the homeless.

“Queen Akua was a soldier,” said Baruti. “She stood for many causes. Any effort to relieve the suffering of those who were living in

SEE QUEEN ON PAGE 2

A call for answers, solutions …

Memphis Fire Department Chief Gina Sweat (left) and Memphis Police Department Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis came to the Memphis City Council’s public safety committee with lots of deep background about the operation of their departments. However, Councilmembers politely but forcefully pushed for specifics regarding the Jan. 7 beating – by five now fired and charged police officers – of Tyre D. Nichols.

They also called for what changes the chiefs would recommend through the Council. Both were told to come back with that focus in mind. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)

RELATED STORIES It’s hard out here for a Black man!

Perspective Page 4 ‘Mom, why are we here?’

Perspective Page 4 County Commission embraces training measures for the Sheriff’s Office amid calls for stronger reform.

Community Page 8

Larry Finch, Lorenzen Wright remembered, saluted at ‘a family affair’

“We’re here with our pockets empty, but our hands aren’t!”

So said Sir the Baptist, accepting the Grammy award for Best Roots Gospel Album on behalf of the Tennessee State University Marching Band – the “Aristocrat of Bands” – for “The Urban Hymnal.”

Baptist used his acceptance speech to highlight how underfunded historically Black colleges and universities such as Tennessee State are, saying he had to “put my last dime in order to get us across the line.”

The Grammys were held Sunday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

It was one of two historic Grammy awards for TSU. The second was for a collaboration with Spoken Word Artist and Poet J. Ivy on “The Poet Who Say By The Door,” which netted Best Spoken Word Album.

“Let it be known, this is for the poets y’all,” said Ivy, thrusting his into the air.

The nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album marked the first time a college marching band had been nominated in the category, especial-

SEE TSU ON PAGE 2

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The basketball-accented lives of a college coach and one of his star players intersected anew when the University of Memphis saluted their legacies at the FedExForum last Saturday afternoon.

To say the names Larry Finch and Lorenzen Wright is to think Memphis. While Wright was born in Oxford, Miss., he essentially was a Memphis native son, as was Finch from the beginning to his last day.

Finch died at 60 on April 2, 2011 after a long illness; Wright died tragically at 34 on July 29, 2010.

The Memphis legends were honored as the Tigers hosted the Tulane Green Wave. The first

SEE LEGACIES ON PAGE 2

Larry Finch’s family, including his widow, Vicki Finch, and his brother, Ronald Finch, beam during an on-court salute to the legendary of U of M sports figure. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender)

“The Urban Hymnal,” which earned the TSU Marching Band a Grammy for Best Roots Gospel Album, was executively produced by (l-r) Assistant Band Director and professor Larry Jenkins; Band Director Dr. Reginald McDonald; platinum recording artist and TSU alum Dubba-AA; Grammy award-winning songwriter and artist Dallas Austin; and twotime Grammy award-nominated songwriter and artist Sir the Baptist. (Photo via TSU News Service)

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The New Tri-State Defender

February 9 - 15, 2023

Page 2

NEWS

TSU

CONTINUED FROM FRONT ly significant given the role marching bands play in HBCUs’ identities and culture.

With the win, Tennessee State’s 280-member Aristocrat of Bands (AOB) beat out the likes of Willie Nelson.

A statement from TSU read, “Excellence Is Our Habit!”

Tuned in to the 65th Grammy Awards presentation, Fred Jones, founder of Memphis’ Southern Heritage Classic, issued a statement that read, in part, “people around the world were introduced to the amazing talent we’ve had a front-row seat to for the last 33 years at the Classic. May this honor open more doors than ever before, and may TSU continue to blaze more trails for historically Black colleges and universities.”

With a shout-out to band director Dr. Reginald McDonald, the staff, the students, the contributing artists, and everyone else involved, Jones said, “TSU’s Aristocrat of Bands earned this. They deserve this.

So, celebrate this moment.

Revel in this moment, and we look forward to seeing what TSU has in store for us September 9th during the 34th Southern Heritage Classic.”

Gospel music has the power to inspire change, unite communities, and serve as a voice for the marginalized. Oftentimes, the concept behind a soul-stirring song or project can be just as profound.

Such was the case for the Grammy-winning “The Urban Hymnal.” It all started with an idea written on a napkin.

In February 2022, Professor Larry Jenkins, assistant band director, met with Sir The Baptist to brainstorm ideas about what’s next for the worldrenowned AOB. Baptist, a twotime Grammy award-nominated songwriter and artist, liked everything Jenkins shared during their meal.

The musical meeting of the

Lined up for excellence at the Southern Heritage Classic. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/ The New Tri-State Defender)

TSU’s Aristocrat of Bands brought horns aplenty to the 2021 Southern Heritage Classic. (Photo: Shirley Jackson/The New Tri-State Defender Archives) minds yielded the concept for the album on a napkin at a Mexican restaurant.

“It just hit me, we should do a whole album,” Jenkins said to Baptist.

His response: “I was waiting on you to say that.”

A year later, Baptist, a TSU alumnus, and AOB won the Grammy for their 10-track album.

Jenkins, who is a co-executive producer of the album, said the accomplishment will change the trajectory of Nashville’s Music City reputation.

“You have an HBCU band doing an album … which is something that has never been done to this capacity,” Jenkins said, noting that this opportunity was a cultural shift.

“I hope this sparks another resurgence of the impact and importance of music. Not just Nashville, but north Nashville and Jefferson Street and how

legendary this air is here.”

Jenkins referred to the historic aspect of Jefferson Street and its longevity of cultural African American music. Jefferson Street is less than a mile from TSU’s main campus at 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd.

Fisk University is about the same distance from Jefferson Street. The Fisk Jubilee Singers, founded in 1871, performed in front of Queen Victoria – a performance that contributed to Nashville’s reputation as a center of musical excellence. In 2021, the Jubilee Singers won their first-ever Grammy Award.

“We call Jefferson Street the Grammy mile,” Jenkins said ahead of TSU’s award-winning night. “ AOB earned its Grammy in the same category as the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

“Being a mile away from each other with so much history being

packed into the biggest musical organization on both campuses is amazing,” Jenkins said.

TSU alum Aaron ‘DUBBA-AA’ Lockhart, a platinum recording artist, and one of the executive producers for the album, said the award “is a cultural award for Nashville in itself. This will solidify Black music in the city.

“Starting off at Fisk and ending off with TSU … this is something the culture needs,” said Lockhart, commenting ahead of Grammy night. Noting “the roots that birthed us,” he emphasized the importance of “being able to pass the torch” to future music students, AOB members and beyond.

Dr. McDonald, who is also a co-executive producer for the album, said, “There is more to the city of Nashville and the state of Tennessee than country music…. For Tennessee State University’s AOB to have produced an album to tie together two of the biggest music genres (gospel and HBCU marching bands) within the African American community is extremely significant….

“You start bringing awareness and bringing on the Black music scene.”

(Listen to “The Urban Hymnal.” https://music.apple. com/us/album/the-urban-hymnal/1646006732) (This story includes reports from the Associated Press and the TSU News Service.)

LEGACIES

CONTINUED FROM FRONT 1,000 fans got a Larry Finch bobblehead. Wright’s jersey joined Finch’s in retirement.

Yes, Memphis lost, and, yes, the sting of the defeat was sharpened by it happening on such a special day. Before becoming the winningest coach (1986-97) in the history of the Tigers, Finch, who was highly recruited coming out of Melrose High School, starred at then-Memphis State University. A consensus All-American in 1973, he chose to play in Memphis (1970-73) although many Finch fans urged him not to because of fresh memories of the university’s refusal to recruit African-American players.

The Larry Finch bobblehead is one in a series to honor the 1972-73 Final Four team that lost in the NCAA championship game against the Bill Walton-led UCLA Bruins.

“It was a great feeling to see them honor him and the team that way,” said Finch’s brother, Ronald Finch. “I knew everyone was happy and the family was happy.”

Finch’s No. 21 jersey hangs from the rafters, along with those of Win Wilfong (22), John Gunn (44), Ronnie Robinson (33), Keith Lee (24), Elliot Perry (34), Anfernee Hardaway (25), Forest Arnold (13) and Larry Kenon (35).

Now there is Wright’s No. 55.

A graduate of Memphis’ Booker T. Washington High School, Wright starred for the Tigers from 1994-1996. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in 1996 with the

Lorenzen Wright’s family, including his parents — Deborah Marion and Herb Wright — gaze upward as the No. 55 jersey is hung at FedExForum. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender) seventh pick. He played 13 seasons in the NBA, including a memorable for the Memphis Grizzlies (2001-06).

A 2009 M Club Hall of Fame inductee, Wright capped his Tigers’ career as one of the most decorated players in program history, earning numerous All-America honors as a sophomore and Freshman All-America honors in his inaugural campaign. He netted over 1,000 points and currently ranks No. 49 on the Tigers’ career scoring list with 1,026 points.

Wright was shot to death and his murder was long a mystery. His ex-wife, Sherra Wright, eventually was convicted of plotting and participating in the shooting with accomplices.

“He was a proud Memphian.

He showed that through the giving of his time and money,” said Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway. “He had a humungous heart. He is definitely gone too soon. Not only is he getting his jersey retired, but never letting those memories leave us. He will live on for-

ever.”

Hardaway said, “We wanted to show the appreciation to his family, for what they have gone through. That is hard to lose a child. We wanted the guys to meet the family.”

He talked with his Tigers about “what Lorenzen meant to the team, and the appreciation that I have, because we were really good friends.”

Wright’s jersey was presented at halftime and now hangs next to Hardaway’s.

“It meant the world,” said Wright’s mother, Deborah Marion, about the retirement of her son’s jersey. “I have been waiting and waiting. It has been 13 years. After they did it, I was happy. It was like a weight lifted for me. (Former Memphis Shelby County Schools Superintendent) Joris Ray, one of Lorenzen’s Kappa Alpha Psi brothers, started the ball rolling for the retirement.

Penny picked it up and kept going with it.”

Now, said Marion, “This cleared my mind. I am not as mad as I was because something good has happened. I am

elated. This is a family affair today.”

Georgia King – aka “Mother King” and “Queen Akua” – as she received a Stone Award. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)

QUEEN

CONTINUED FROM FRONT poverty, suffering injustices, and subjected to racism and inequality, she was a voice for them. Homelessness was always on her heart.”

Baruti continued, “Each year, she worked with a program which surveyed and addressed the needs of homelessness. I would work with her every year, going out in the streets, looking in dumpsters and abandoned buildings, trying to get an accurate count of the homeless in the city of Memphis.

She was always concerned about helping others in her community.”

Charlotte Carpenter, an activist in both Memphis and cities in Mississippi, also knew of King’s dedication to making life better for those who lived around her.

“Of course, we knew of her very well, those of us who were activists,” said Carpenter. “I did not know her on a personal level. But just a few days back, she was at a demonstration I organized for Tyre Nichols.

“Even to the very end, she was fighting for the well-being of others. She was our queen mother.

“Mother King was powerful.

She was our mother, all of us who are activists. Mother King was wise with the kind of wisdom that God bestows upon our elders.

“We looked to her for counseling, wisdom, and most of all, prayer. Believe me when I say that she was a mother in the struggle. We are all hurt, just sick, heart-broken about

her passing.”

Nearly 35 years ago when Ms. King was on that trek to the U.S. Capitol on behalf of the nation’s homeless, King is remembered for encouraging marchers to power through when skies turned black, and wind velocity and rain, accosted marchers, who grew fearful.

She would later say that the “Holy Spirit told me to put on my sanctified sneakers and keep marching.”

The marchers walked through Hurricane Hugo.

Marchers did, indeed, reach the Capitol, along with others who came from the North, along with busloads of activists from all over the country. More than 200,000 demanded that the $250 billion for homeless programs be restored. They would not be denied. That funding was restored.

Kilolo Ajanaku, who makes her home in Maryland, cherishes the times Ms. King Akua spent with women of the Ajanaku Basic Research Institute, making the transition with them to the Future America Basic Research Institute.

“Queen Akua was closely involved with us,” said Ajanaku. “She was a trailblazer. I remember at one time we worked on re-writing the Constitution. Women were marginalized and excluded from founding documents.

“We re-wrote that whole thing, calling it an ‘Additional Understanding.’ Akua was always so positive, and so encouraging. I am really saddened for her loss.”

Funeral arrangements are pending.

The New Tri-State Defender

February 9 - 15, 2023

Page 3

NEWS

Police reform highlighted in ‘prebuttal’ to Gov. Lee’s State of the State address

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

Addressing police reform in a prebuttal to Gov. Lee’s statewide address on Monday, House Democratic Leader Karen Camper said, “I wish I could say this was an isolated incident. The misdeeds of a few bad apples. ... But we are not powerless. It’s not destiny.

We can prevent future tragedies.” (Screen capture) With Gov. Bill Lee set to deliver his fifth State of the State address on Monday, House Democratic Leader Karen Camper is calling upon Gov. Bill Lee and the Republican supermajority to join state Democrats in their efforts to end police brutality.

Lee will address a joint session of the Tennessee General Assembly in the House Chamber of the Tennessee State Capitol at 6 p.m. (CST).

In a videotaped message released Saturday, Camper said, “Let us show the nation that we can work together and serve justice for Tyre Nichols and all the victims of police brutality. Police work and public safety is not an easy job, but high moral standards and accountability must win every day … from the inside out … from officers on the street to judges on the bench.”

Reformed policing was one of several focuses Camper invited Lee and state Republicans to work with Democrats on in a rejection of “the familiar politics of division.” Specifically, she detailed affordability in healthcare, childcare and housing; strengthening public schools; respecting the contributions of working families; and fixing the crisis at the Department of Children’s Services.

Released on what was dubbed a National Day of Action in the wake of the videotaped beating of the 29-year-old Nichols by Memphis police (Jan. 7), Camper’s “prebuttal” to Lee’s upcoming State of the State made an early reference to the tragedy that befell Nichols, whose funeral was Wednesday.

“The shockwaves from his

Gov. Bill delivered his fifth State of the State Address on Monday (Feb. 6). (Screen capture)

Roads, parks, tax breaks: A look at Tenn.

Gov. Lee’s budget

by Jonathan Mattise Associated Press

Addressing police reform in a prebuttal to Gov. Lee’s statewide address on Monday, House Democratic Leader Karen Camper said, “I wish I could say this was an isolated incident. The misdeeds of a few bad apples. ... But we are not powerless.

It’s not destiny. We can prevent future tragedies.” (Screen capture) brutal and senseless murder have jolted our community, our state, and the entire nation,” said Camper, who represents District 87 in Memphis and is a declared candidate for mayor. “I wish I could say this was an isolated incident. The misdeeds of a few bad apples.

I wish I could say it will never happen again. But we all know this isn’t true.”

Still, said, Camper, “We can prevent future tragedies.

But we must first summon the courage to admit that law can only do so much. It’s the very culture inside many of our police departments that needs to change.”

As for the legal route, there are burgeoning calls for federal legislation, namely passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which has stalled in Congress since first introduced in 2020.

At Nichols’ funeral, family attorney Benjamin Crump shared that Houston-based Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who was in attendance, planned to introduce a new version of the legislation after President Joe Biden’s the State of the Union Address (Feb. 7th), and that it would include a Tyre Nichols Duty to Intervene element.

During a recent press con-

ference by the Tennessee State Conference of the NAACP, Memphis Branch NAACP President Van Turner Jr., part of the legal team for Nichols’ family, pressed for the Tennessee General Assembly to pass a Tyre D. Nichols criminal justice reform bill.

“We do not need to let Tyre Nichols’ death be in vain,” said Turner, who also is a declared candidate for mayor. “We need the bill passed and we call on Governor Bill Lee…. That bill will feature teeth and it will feature true consequences if you (an officer) don’t intervene.”

In the wake of Nichol’s death (Jan. 10), Democratic state lawmakers have filed several bills dealing with reforming policing tactics and the criminal justice system, although none specifically designated as a Tyre D. Nichols criminal justice reform bill.

However, some of those are caption bills, which are specifically vague bills filed to meet the filing deadline and that we will be amended later with specifics.

In a released statement regarding the death of Nichols, Gov. Lee said, “Cruel, criminal abuse of power will not be tolerated in the State of Ten-

nessee. These individuals do not represent the honorable men & women of law enforcement, & they must be brought to justice for this tragic loss of life.

“The city of Memphis & the Memphis Police Department needs to take a hard look at the misconduct & failure that has occurred within this unit. I discussed this with mayor Strickland & am pleased the city is pursuing an external, impartial investigation.”

Lee has set up his State of the State address with a social media post in which he asserted that “Tennessee is leading the nation, and I look forward to sharing my budget and legislative priorities for the upcoming year that will ensure we remain a standard bearer for opportunity, security and freedom.

With the belief that “our state’s best days are ahead,” Lee added, “together with the General Assembly, we will continue working to make life better for all Tennesseans.”

Camper’s conclusion ahead of Lee’s address included this: “There are many ways we can better serve our children and families, and we ask the Governor to join us in finding solutions to real problems.”

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Monday unveiled a $55.6 billion state budget proposal stocked with cash for roads, state parks, tax cuts for businesses, state employee pay boosts and more.

The plan put forth by Lee also fuels a number of areas to benefit health coverage for low-income women and children, in addition to anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers, as he and fellow Republicans sort through scrutiny over one of the country’s strictest abortion bans.

The plan is buoyed by better-than-expected revenues and comes in at $618.6 million less than the current budget, which was boosted by extra federal funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here is a look at some specifics of the spending blueprint, which goes to the Republican-supermajority Legislature for its consideration:

creates exemptions or reductions to several business taxes, largely aimed at small businesses; creates a paid family leave credit against franchise and excise taxes.

— Memphis sports facilities: $350 million for improvements at FedEx Forum and Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis.

— Performing arts: $200 million to help relocate the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville.

— Economic development grants: $103 million, including $18 million annually, for the Jobs4TN program to recruit new businesses and support workforce training, marketing and education.

— Nuclear power: $50 million to invest further in nuclear energy.

— Rural grants: $45 million in grants to aid various rural development initiatives.

— Youth work: $15 million summer work pilot program to connect youth and young adults with paid work experiences and career exploration.

Business, labor, infrastructure

Pay, reserves, pensions

— Roads: $3 billion from the general fund into a transportation fund for road projects statewide; $300 million for the local highway program.

— Tax cuts: $54 million annually and $360 million in one-time money worth of tax cuts and other tax changes; includes three-month grocery sales tax holiday on food;

— Pay boosts: $165 million for state employee marketing adjustments; $92.6 million for a 5% increase to the employee pay fund for executive branch agencies; $20.7 million for pay increases for other public employees; $35.7 million to double the state’s 401k match for first $50 in employee contributions.

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, February 9 - 15, 2023, Page 4

Founded by Curtis Weathers, Brother to Brother helps boys on the journey to manhood, including activities such as this leadership retreat.

(Courtesy photo)

It’s hard out here for a Black man!

by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

When I was younger, my friends and I used to talk a lot about our future and some of the things we wanted to accomplish in life.

At the end of our conversation, someone would always jokingly end the discussion with the statement, “but it’s HARD out here for a Black man!”

I was blessed to be born during an extraordinary time in our nation’s history. The 1950s and 1960s were pivotal years for Black Americans and our fight for the most basic of human rights.

I had a front-row seat during the civil rights movement. I saw the rise of civil rights superstars like Martin, Rosa, Malcolm, and Jesse.

I rejoiced with pride in the accomplishments of figures like Colin Powell, Jackie Robinson, and Muhammad Ali. I remember quite vividly the signs posted over water fountains and hanging on restroom doors that said, “Whites Only.”

I saw a president get assassinated and a civil rights icon get murdered.

I watched as the riots ensued; our city engulfed in the flames of protest.

Tanks parked outside my home, and military soldiers patrolling my neighborhood day and night.

I saw the ugliness of desegregation in our schools and society unfold before my very eyes.

I saw young Black children brave the insults of white hatred just so they could enjoy the benefits of a quality education without discrimination.

I worked 10 hours a day on weekends picking cotton when I was 10 years old, making only 10 cents a day.

I remember my mom having to work as a maid for a white family on the weekends to help put food on our table.

I remember as a 12-year-old taking the 8 Chelsea (public transportation) Downtown so that I could participate in the protest marches led by Dr. King on behalf of Memphis sanitation workers.

For some reason, I was determined to be a part of that demonstration.

My proudest moment as an African American, however, was witnessing the inauguration of the nation’s first Black President, Barack Obama.

I was so incredibly proud!

I have seen so much during my years on this earth. The civil rights era was a challenging time for African Americans (pre and post). It has not been easy.

Our leaders and communities were strong. We worked together because we had a common agenda that was important to us all.

But not today.

We seem to have fallen off the proverbial “mountain top.”

There is no common agenda.

I feel our children today have no

idea what we, as Black people, have been through.

And there are people out there who want to make sure it stays that way.

People like Curtis Gov. Ron DeWeathers Santis of Florida, the nation’s poster child of racial insensitivity, have no interest whatsoever in the health and wellbeing of the Black community.

Under his leadership, his state has banned the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and continues to champion new laws that put guardrails on lessons about racism and racial oppression.

Teachers who violate these new laws could not only lose their licenses but face felony charges as well.

Gov. DeSantis refers to systemic racism as “a bunch of horse manure.”

His administration also is making plans to remove and reform education programs that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at state universities.

It is widely anticipated that DeSantis will challenge Donald Trump for the Republican nomination for president. He seems to believe that attacking issues in education that Blacks care deeply about will appeal to the staunch conservative wing of his party. He may be right.

By the way, DeSantis is far more dangerous to American democracy than Donald Trump could ever be.

Keep that in mind as we approach another election year.

African Americans have a rich and inspiring history. The heroes and sheroes of the Black community were brave, bold beacons of light for all.

There are those like DeSantis who want to dull that light and make their work and contributions seem insignificant.

Life is unquestionably hard for Black Americans, and there is no reason to believe it will get easier anytime soon.

But we have so much to be proud of.

Our history is our strength. We must never forget from whence we came.

It is the key to determining our future destinations.

I would be remiss if I did not extend my sincere condolences to the family of Tyre Nichols. I still pray for his family. The community’s response to his tragic and untimely death has been commendable. And I still cannot get that video out of my head.

But, again, as I said at the beginning, it is hard out here for a Black man.

Enjoy your day.

(Follow me, TSD’s education columnist, on Twitter @curtisweathers.

Email me at curtislweathers@gmail. com.)

Kelli Gates sang “Stand Up” from the movie “Harriet” before protesters began to move from the D’Army Bailey Courthouse to Poplar Ave. and Danny Thomas Blvd., where they settled in for a sustained blockage of the intersection as they voiced demands embraced in pursuit of justice for Tyre D. Nichols. (Photos: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)

‘Mom, why are we here?’

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

Kelli Gates knows how to set the musical tone for a protest. She did so again this past Saturday (Feb. 4) as the ongoing, street-level push continued for justice for Tyre D. Nichols, who died Jan. 10, three days after five officers beat up mercilessly “Good afternoon, everyone. … I am here representing Black Lives Matter and also the Center for Transforming Change. Usually, there are 20 Freedom Singers (an extension of the two groups. I am one of those singers.”

The crowd greeted her back like family.

“We wanted to make sure that we showed up to encourage the people, to bring some music to you to encourage our hearts and spirits. Our people have always overcome by the blood of our testimony, Amen!”

“Amen,” was the comeback.

“We’ve always done that through marching.

We’ve always done that through songs. We’ve always done that with our unity.”

She asked for the protesters’ help with “a very familiar song called ‘Stand Up’ (from the movie ‘Harriet). And that’s exactly what we are doing today, right, for Tyre Nichols.”

The crowd responded to her request for them to clap. Gates’ strong voice wafted from the steps of the D’Army Bailey Courthouse in Downtown Memphis drawing a chorus of “yeahs” from all within earshot.

Three minutes later, she was done.

One of the protest organizers, Casio Montez, shouted through a bullhorn. “Y’all ready?”

They were.

The protesters began to move, marching about four blocks before they blocked and camped at the intersection of Poplar Avenue and Danny Thomas Blvd. Talking to The New Tri-State Defender, Gates pointed to the Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Complex and said, “My mother used to work there. She was a sergeant.”

Amplifying on her earlier reference to the Center for Transforming Change, she said it works with Black Lives Matter to serve the community “financially, spiritually, educationally”

Kelli Gates framed the protest as a learning opportunity for her two young sons. and more.”

Building upon her introduction of the Freedom Singers, she said it as about coming together “for times like these … to have some peace, to encourage people to be a part of the peaceful protest and also to keep the hearts, minds and spirits of our people unified at this time.

“Because we are angry,” she said. “We’re upset, there’s a lot of emotion, but we cannot forget our purpose. We must remember to remain united so that our goals and our demands can be reached.”

Gates brought her two sons, ages 7 and 8.

“They just asked me, ‘Mom, why do we have to be here?’ I said honey, people have been marching like this since before you and I were born and it could have been either one of us. So, it’s our job, our duty to follow in those footsteps and continue the good fight.”

Gates also is an early childhood education teacher who works with “many young Black boys who cannot speak. … They have autism.

They are non-verbal.

“I am an advocate for them and an advocate for all little Black and brown boys….”

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The New Tri-State Defender

February 9 - 15, 2023

Page 5

RELIGION

After 40 years, ministry and activism continue to intersect for Greater Imani’s Apostle Bill Adkins

by Danny Tennial

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Rev. Dr. William A. “Bill” Adkins Jr. celebrated 40 years of ministry as well as his birthday at Greater Imani Church the Cathedral of Faith last Sunday (Feb. 5).

Dr. Adkins, Greater Imani’s senior pastor, spoke about the biblical significance of the number 40. Moses hid in the desert for 40 years. The Children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years.

The Prophet Elijah walked for 40 days on a journey. Jesus fasted for 40 days before the devil tempted him.

Adkins is well-known internationally for his ministry and activism.

Asked about his sociopolitical activism, he said, “I don’t think you can do one without the other. If the

“We started out with a church that could seat a maximum of about 150 people. Today, we have grown to a church that can seat a maximum of 4,000 people.”

— Rev. Dr. William A. “Bill” Adkins Jr. people are in my care, I have to care about their spiritual and temporal existence.”

His passionate commitment to the Memphis community caught the attention of political leaders and social activists worldwide. Former President Barack Obama and the 2016 Democratic presidential nomi-

nee Hillary Clinton have visited the Greater Imani Church.

Adkins said one of his greatest ministerial high points is how God blessed the growth of his ministry.

“We started out with a church that could seat a maximum of about 150 people. Today, we have grown to a church that can seat a maximum of 4,000 people.”

The guest speaker for The Founder’s Day Celebration was the Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba M. Gray Jr., who commended Dr. Adkins for his service to God, his congregation and to the community at large.

Dr. Adkins shared his philosophy of what a dedicated man of God should be in ministry.

“In true prophetic ministry we have to speak up. We have to speak truth to power. We have to put our lives at risk,” he explained.

The guest speaker for The Founder’s Day Celebration at Greater Imani Church the Cathedral of Faith was the Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba M. Gray Jr., who commended Greater Imani’s senior pastor, The Rev. Dr. William A. “Bill” Adkins Jr. for his service to God, his congregation and to the community at large. (Photo: Danny Tennial)

First Sunday …

The Rev. Melvin Watkins Jr., the pastor of Mt. Vernon-Westwood, preaches on “Grace Abound” during the first Sunday service. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/ The New Tri-State Defender)

Remembering…

In the spirit of African American History Month, the TSD honors the memory of Evangelist Louise Patterson, who died on Nov. 21, 2022, at age 84. The widow of COGIC Presiding Bishop G.E. Patterson, “Mother” Patterson is shown here celebrating her 83rd birthday with Carol Joyner, wife of the Rev. Dr. Roosevelt Joyner, a former president of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender, February 9 - 15, 2023, Page 6 “Tina was very interested in tying in someone who had a direct connection to her roots, so luckily, with me being a daughter of the Tennessee Soil, I was available and obviously really over the moon that I was asked to even lay my hands on this project.”

— Katori Hall

Naomi Rodgers as Tina Turner in the North American touring production of ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical.’ (Photo: Matthew Murphy for Murphy Made, 2022)

Pulitzer-Prize-winning writer and producer Katori Hall, who wrote ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical,’ was among the Black creatives honored at the Halloran Centre in December as the Memphis Black Arts Alliance celebrated its epic 40th anniversary.

(Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

‘TINA – The Tina Turner Musical’ The work of Pulitzer-Prize-winning Memphis native Katori Hall

by Brianna Smith-Herman Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Her voice is undeniable. Her fire was unstoppable. Her uplifting comeback story is a triumph unlike any other.

“TINA – The Tina Turner Musical,” the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll, is coming to The Orpheum Theatre, Feb.14-19.

From humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her transformation into a global superstar, Tina Turner didn’t just break the rules, she rewrote them.

This new hit stage musical, presented in association with Tina Turner herself, reveals the untold story of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of her age, gender and race.

One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.

Featuring her much loved songs and stunning flashy outfits “TINA – The Tina Turner Musical” was written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and Memphis native Katori Hall.

“Tina was very interested in tying in someone who had a direct connection to her roots, so luckily, with me being a daughter of the Tennessee Soil, I was available and obviously really over the moon that I was asked to even lay my hands on this project,” Hall said. “Tina is such an icon and an inspiration to me.”

Hall worked closely with Turner in writing the musical. So close that she moved to Switzerland to interview her and see her everyday life.

“I listened to Inttakingews, tapes and watched videos of her, but to be able to sit down with her at her own table, take notes from her in readings and workshops was incredible,” said Hall. “Tina has been extremely involved every step of the way

Zurin Villanueva as Tina Turner and Ann Nesby as Gran Georgeanna Turner in the North American touring production of ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical.’ (Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for Murphy Made, 2022)

Zurin Villanueva performing as Tina Turner and Garrett Turner as Ike Turner in the North American touring production of ‘Tina – The Tina Turner Musical.’ (Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for Murphy Made, 2022) with this musical.”

Hall continued, “She just really wanted the show to be authentic. She was really

worried that we would shy away from the abuse, and she, in a way, questioned if a musical could really tell the story of a do-

mestic abuse survivor. And over the course of the process, we all learned that yes we can do that.”

Musicals tend to not approach subjects of that matter, but “I think that the musical is a perfect reframing of her story,” said Hall.

In comparison with the 1993 ‘What’s Love Got to do with It’ film, starring Angela Bassett as Tina Turner and Laurence Fishburne as her husband Ike Turner, the musical was able to get more into details about her creative process and tackle things that the movie didn’t have time to explore.

The play gives a better glimpse of her toxic relationship with her mother, her first relationship with her first son’s father, and “subjects that the movie just glossed over.

We were able to hold space and articulate more,” said Hall.

“As a writer, I’m really proud that we were able to show vulnerability. Tina has survived so much; a resilient force of nature and something I learned working with her is how fully transparent she is and how she allows herself to accept her mistakes and her vulnerability,” said Hall.

“I think there’s this expectation with Black women when we see our stories, that we’re always suppose to be strong and perfect and I think with this musical we get to see a woman at her lowest.

“We see her climb up out of that, we get to see her fall again, but she continues to pick herself back up… This musical and Tina’s story is real, raw, authentic and human.”

From 2015-2019, Hall worked on writing the musical. It has traveled from London to Madrid to North America to Australia.

Asked why she felt it was important for this show to come to her hometown of Memphis, Hall said, “As one of the co-producers, I was adamant about this show coming to Memphis. It’s important to me because our city is full of so much talent, the music, storytellers, dancers … and Tina is just a testament. It feels like a homecoming. A family reunion, as such.”

The New Tri-State Defender

February 9 - 15, 2023

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH CALENDAR Memphis/Shelby County Public Library Feb. 15 Black History Month Spotlight: Technology & Inventions 4 p.m.- 5 p.m.

South Library – Main floor Feb. 16 Stop, Drop & Read Black American History 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Frayser Library – Children’s Area Feb. 18 Black History Month Family Storytime 11 a.m.- 11:45 a.m.

Feb. 22 Black History Month Spotlight: Outer Space 4 p.m.-5 p.m.

South Library – Main floor Keenan Shotwell’s newest release is “Touch The Sky.” (Photo: Facebook)

Just in time for ‘Love Day’ – Notez&Flow with Keenan Shotwell TSD Newsroom Here is Valentine’s Day destination for those seeking live musical entertainment on February 14th. Check out Notez&Flow: The Love Edition at Memphis Botanic Gardens.

The lineup of talent will be led by producer/songwriter/musician Keenan Shotwell. The mix will feature popular vocalists Karen Brown and J. Buck, and comedian Memphis Will. DJ Tim Bachus will keep the party going before, during, and after the show.

Memphis Botanic Garden is located at 750 Cherry Rd. The show will begin at 7 p.m. The collage of entertainment also will include a live band and a sit-down dinner.

This is the third event in the Notez&Flow series, which Shotwell created in 2022 to spotlight some of the hottest artists in Memphis dis-

playing various forms of talent. It’s a combination of music, art, culture, and heritage Shotwell decided to do a Valentine’s event seeking to provide an affordable, all-inclusive experience to celebrate the day dedicated to love.

“Music has always provided the theme or background for love,” he said. “Every emotion you feel from the start of a love experience until the end can be found in a song. Myself, along with some other amazing artists, will celebrate love in our own way.”

Attendees can expect “great music, laughter, food, fun, and plenty of interactive elements for people to enjoy,” said Keenan.

(To learn more about Notez&Flow: The Love Edition and purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/NotezAndFlow.)

Feb. 24 Black History HBCU College Fair Noon – ??

Raleigh Library – Meeting Room Feb. 10-11 Cross That River Halloran Centre for Performing Arts & Education 225 S Main St. Feb. 11 *African American History & Elmwood Cemetery: An In-Door Presentation 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Dudley St. *Celebrate Black Artists – Faith Ringgold 10 a.m. – noon Arrow Creative, 653 Philadelphia St. Feb. 16 Candid Conversations w/Entrepreneurs –

Black History Month Edition 11 p.m. – 1 a.m.

1139 Brownlee Rd. Feb. 18 Our Stories Matter 6th Annual African American Read-In 3 p.m.-5 p.m.

Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library,3030 Poplar Ave. *Celebrate Black Artists – Romare Bearden 10 a.m.-noon Arrow Creative, 653 Philadelphia St. Feb. 24 Afro-Latino Night Fiesta!

7 p.m.-11 p.m.

Memphis Music Room, 5770 Shelby Oaks Dr. Feb. 25 *BLACKITY BLACK BLACK BLACK SHOWDOWN Noon – 4 p.m.

L R Jackson Activity Center, 405 S. 25th St. West Memphis *Celebrate Black Artists – Kehinde Wiley 10 a.m. – noon Arrow Creative, 653 Philadelphia St. Places to explore 1.The National Civil Rights Museum 2. Beale Street 3. Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum inside the historic Burkle Estate 4. The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange 5. Ernest Withers Collection Museum 6. Historic First Baptist Beale Street 7. MLK Reflection Park 8. I AM A MAN Plaza 9. The Blues Hall of Fame 10. Stax Museum of American Soul Music 11. W.C. Handy Home and Museum

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, February 9 - 15, 2023, Page 8

County Commission embraces training measures for the Sheriff’s Office amid calls for stronger reform

by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Shelby County Commissioners on Monday (Feb. 6) unanimously adopted a pair of nonbinding resolutions to increase transparency and improve de-escalation training for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

The items echo similar reforms being considered by members of the Memphis City Council.

Both bodies are moving on a parallel track to amend policing practices in the wake of Tyre Nichols’ bludgeoning death following an alleged traffic stop by a special Memphis police crime-fighting saturation on Jan. 7 in Hickory Hill. Nichols, 29, died three days later.

“As we wait for justice for Tyre Nichols, these training measures can be used so, hopefully, this doesn’t happen here again,” said Chairman Mickell Lowery.

The first resolution requests that video of Nichols’ beating and arrest by officers be included in the Sheriff’s Department’s annual de-escalation training.

The recommendation has the backing of Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr., who also is a declared candidate for Memphis mayor in the October city elections. It was sponsored by Lowery.

Bonner has said that he first saw the video upon its public release.

Meanwhile, two sheriff’s deputies on the scene of Nichol’s beating have been relieved of duty pending an investigation.

Lowery said, “Thankfully, I was able to have a good conversation with the sheriff about this. Obviously, he’s more than supportive.…There are countless moments that can be used as a training opportunity from the video we’ve just seen. We now know they’re going to be 20 hours more of video made available to the public in the future,” said Lowery.

The second resolution seeks to “provide additional data and transparency to both law enforcement and the public,” through increased data collection on use of force incidents.

Sponsored by commissioner Mick Wright, it is modeled on 2021 recommendations from the Council on Criminal Justice, which called for additional training to improve officer performance coupled with body camera analytics.

The think tank’s guidelines are used to coach officers’ behavior in the field. A case study cited by the commissioner noted a 35 percent reduction in use of force incidents in Alameda, California after similar reforms were adopted.

An increased investment in mobile and stationary video cameras throughout Shelby County is also being sought.

A throng of activists and citizens populated the meeting for five hours before the resolutions were considered.

Although many of the concerns were addressed, the resolutions fell short of the ordinances many are expecting.

“This isn’t meant to be the only thing we do. It was just meant to be, what is it I can do at this given moment to make some kind of a difference? I think that’s what you all are trying to do as well. So, I fully expect more things to come…”, said Wright.

Commissioner Erika Sugarmon assured the public that discussions with

“My concern is with a resolution, it can easily be overturned as opposed to an ordinance and it’s more impactful.

As a mother of Black children, I feel the pain. I feel the pain. Don’t think we don’t. We couldn’t write an ordinance fast enough.”

— Commissioner Erika Sugarmon Shelby County Attorney Marlinee Iverson surrounding ordinances are ongoing.

“My concern is with a resolution, it can easily be overturned as opposed to an ordinance and it’s more impactful,” said Sugarmon. “As a mother of Black children, I feel the pain. I feel the pain. Don’t think we don’t.

We couldn’t write an ordinance fast enough.”

The death of Nichols is the latest push to reform policing that has been moving in fits and starts, locally and nationally, since the choking death of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer on Memorial Day 2020.

After being pulled over by an unmarked car for allegedly driving recklessly, Nichols fled on foot after being tasered and pepper sprayed.

Officers eventually caught up to him about 100 yards from his mother’s house. For three minutes, the 6-3, 145-pound Nichols was beaten with batons, kicked and punched.

Attorneys for his family said an independent autopsy revealed he died from internal bleeding. According to his mother, RowVaughn Wells, he was returning from Shelby Farms, where he loved photographing sunsets.

Another passion of the 29-year-old father-of one and FedEx worker was skateboarding.

Five officers, members of the now deactivated SCORPION (Street Crimes Operations to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods) unit, implicated in the death — Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmit Martin III, Desmond Mills, Jr. and Justin Smith — have been fired and are charged with second-degree murder and related felonies.

All are African American. Another officer, Preston Hemphill, was fired Feb. 3. He is white.

Investigative records recently revealed Haley took cell phone photos of Nichols after he and other officers assaulted him and texted them to five people.

During Tuesday’s (Feb. 7) City Council Public Safety Committee meeting, MPD Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis and the city’s Chief Legal Officer Jennifer Sink revealed that six additional officers not previously referenced are under administrative investigation for the beating.

The SCORPION unit, launched in November 2021, was tasked with aggressively policing high-crime neighborhoods. Some now are challenging whether the area where Nichols was beaten is such an area.

In the fallout, three EMT’s with the Memphis Fire Department have also been fired following an internal investigation for failing to render aid to Nichols.

These members of the River City (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated are looking forward to ongoing elements of a 30th Anniversary celebration. (Courtesy photo)

River City Links Inc. marks 30th anniversary with salute to late founder, Emma H. Stotts

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

One of Memphis’ premiere service organizations for African-American women is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Last Sunday’s luncheon in the event space of Methodist South Hospital was only a foretaste of a culminating affair, scheduled for Sunday, April 23.

The Feb. 4 gathering was a flurry of group photos, founders and charter member visual displays, audio recordings of memorable speech excerpts, and lots of visiting and catching up with Link Sisters.

“A Legacy of Leadership” featured a panel discussion of past presidents. The leadership circle included: Dr. Elma H. Mardis, Charlene M. Turner, Norma F. Griffin, Martha P. Beard, Beverly C. Robertson, Carolyn F. Bishop, Dr. Charlotte M. Freeman, Dr. Inetta F. Rogers, Carla Stotts-Hills, Gale Jones Carson, Ailene Oliver Booker, and Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq. “My presidency was one of creating hope and a sense of fellowship through a very difficult period, the pandemic,” said Links Chapter President Michelle Fowlkes. “I focused on helping members who may have felt isolated. It was a time of implementing creative and innova-

tive ways of caring for people and helping them succeed.”

Fowlkes said her determination was to make sure people were connected to the resources and services that were needed, “whether it was employment, family needs, and social services.”

Fowlkes will pass the gavel this year. For her, history and remembering are very important to an organization such as the Links.

“We have not gotten to this place by ourselves,” said Fowlkes. “We are standing on someone else’s shoulders. Our legacy is one of service and caring. We facilitate a voting rights initiative in several schools. We want young people to understand that voting is a call to action. We look to a larger service component as we move forward.”

Fowlkes took office on May 15, 2021 for the traditional two-year term.

As members considered the organization’s motto: “Linked in Friendship, Connected in Service,” thoughts of a beloved co-founder, Emma Jean Hubbard Stotts, the mood turned emotional as Fowlkes praised the highly-esteemed Stotts.

Links member and past president, Carla Stotts-Hills, recounted the story of the River City Chapter. It was her mother’s story.

“It all started when I joined the Links Chapter in Nashville,” said

Stotts-Hills. “I got the information to my mother, and she founded the River City Links, along with her sister, Dr. Elma Mardis. Both were educators.”

Founder Stotts died on Feb. 3.

Other prominent members reflected on their time in River City Links Inc. Gale Jones Carson said one of her proudest moments was serving as the organization’s president in 2015.

“I became a member in 2000,” said Carson. “As president, I had a vision of connecting with young ladies to expose them to accomplished and phenomenal women in a wide range of professions. I wanted them to see mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and cousins who looked like them, and who broke glass ceilings everywhere. We also adopted schools in Jamaica, and I have thoroughly enjoyed mission work.”

Dr. Inetta Rogers was a charter member.

“I am overwhelmed with excitement and thankful and honored to have traveled this journey for the 30 years and witnessed the expansion of River City,” said Rogers. “We have grown in the Memphis community, Africa, and Jamaica in leadership, friendship, and service…”

National and regional leaders will be on hand for the 30th Anniversary Gala, said Rogers.

Birthday on Beale …

Nettie Coleman wanted to visit Beale Street for her birthday and her son, the Rev. D. Will Coleman, and her daughter, Janice Tuggle, made it happen. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

The New Tri-State Defender

NEWS

February 9 - 15, 2023

Tennessee House speaker mulls rejecting US education money

NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000781 FY23 Collierville-Arlington Road Bridge Repair Project.

Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn.gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above-described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000781 DUE DATE WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8th, 2023 AT 2:00 PM CST (SB-I000781) COLLIERVILL-ARLINGTON ROAD BRIDGE REPAIR PROJECT

by Kimberlee Kruesi and Jonathan Mattise

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://meet.goto.com/389927677 You can also dial in using your phone.

(For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.)

United States: +1 (408) 650-3123 - One-touch: tel:+14086503123,,389927677# Access Code: 389-927-677

The Associated Press

NASHVILLE – One of Tennessee’s most influential Republican lawmakers says the state should stop accepting the nearly $1.8 billion of federal K-12 education dollars that help provide support for low-income students, English learners and students with disabilities.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton told The Associated Press that he has introduced a bill to explore the idea during this year’s legislative session and has begun discussions with Gov. Bill Lee and other key GOP lawmakers.

“Basically, we’ll be able to educate the kids how Tennessee sees fit,” Sexton said, pointing that rejecting the money would mean that Tennessee would no longer have “federal government interference.”

To date, no state has successfully rejected federal education funds even as state and local officials have long grumbled about some of the requirements and testing that at times come attached to the money. The idea has also come up elsewhere in recent months among GOP officials, including in Oklahoma and South Carolina.

Many Republican politicians and candidates at the federal level have also made a habit of calling for the outright elimination of the U.S. Department of Education.

According to Sexton, Tennessee is currently in the financial position to use state tax dollars to replace federal education funds. He pointed to the $3.2 billion in new spending outlined in Gov. Lee’s recent budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year as proof that the state could easily cover the federal government’s portion.

Federal dollars make up a small slice of Tennessee’s K-12 education funding, which had an almost $8.3 billion budget as of fiscal year 2023. Yet the federal money is seen as a key tool to supporting schools in low-income areas and special education.

Sexton says he has been mulling the proposal for a while, but this week, he publicly touted the idea in front of a packed room full of lawmakers, lobbyists and other leaders at the Tennessee Farm Bureau luncheon on Tuesday.

“We as a state can lead the nation once again in telling the federal government that they can keep their money and we’ll just do things the Tennessee way,” Sexton said at the event. “And that should start, first and foremost, with the Department of Education.”

Spokespersons for both Gov. Lee and Sen. Randy McNally appeared open to entertaining Sexton’s proposal.

“Although we haven’t seen the details of the legislation yet, the governor is always interested in working with the speaker to ensure Tennessee students have the best access to a high-quality education,” said Lee’s spokesperson, Jade Byers.

McNally said he was open to the proposal, saying that “federal mandates in the area of education can be overly burdensome.”

“McNally thinks a discussion about forgoing this money, a relatively small part of overall

CLASSIFIEDS

House Speaker Cameron Sexton (Photo: (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File) education funding, in order to maintain more control over how we educate our Tennessee students is a constructive conversation to have,” spokesperson Adam Kleinheider said.

Democratic Rep. Bo Mitchell said he had several concerns about forgoing federal education funding, particularly knowing that the money currently goes to support students with disabilities and low-income students.

“I’m concerned about their rights and Tennessee being able to provide those services and uphold their rights,” Mitchell said.

Advocacy groups also raised alarm, with the Tennessee Disability Coalition saying they

“These funds represent the best, strongest bootstraps these students have for successfully living and working in our communities.”

— Tom Jedlowski were “very disappointed” with Sexton’s proposal.

“These funds represent the best, strongest bootstraps these students have for successfully living and working in our communities,” spokesperson Tom Jedlowski said.

Meanwhile, the Teacher Education Association’s President Tanya Coats said Tennessee needs “every dollar we can invest” even if it comes with “federal strings.”

In Republican-dominant Tennessee, GOP lawmakers have increasingly become more skeptical and combative over what is taught inside public classrooms — particularly over race and gender issues — and the policies surrounding what services schools offer to students.

And in 2021, the federal department opened investigations into Tennessee and four other Republican-led states that have banned or limited mask requirements in schools, saying the policies could amount to discrimination against students with disabilities or health conditions.

Yet it’s unclear whether Tennessee would have fewer conflicts with the federal government if the state chose to forgo the education funding. While the U.S. Constitution says public education is a state responsibility, states are still required to follow federal laws.

VOLUNTARY PRE-BID MEETING – A voluntary pre-proposal meeting to address questions will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. (CST).

Vendors can access the meeting via teleconference by utilizing the following access codes: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://meet.goto.com/377593021 You can also dial in using your phone.

(For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.)

United States: +1 (571) 317-3122 - One-touch: tel:+5713173122,,377593021# Access Code: 377-593-021 Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service.

By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Aztlan Acquisitions LLC Tax Parcel #: 04104000000350 Tax Sale #: 1102 Price Offered: $500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 2:00 p.m. on March 8, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Christopher Morris-Carpenter Tax Parcel #: 04800900000080 Tax Sale #: 1802 Price Offered: $22,300.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:30 a.m. on March 8, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Page 9

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Derrick Johnson Tax Parcel #: 02603300000140 Tax Sale #: 502 Price Offered: $2000.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on March 8, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Dewon Jones Tax Parcel #: 04204800000260 Tax Sale #: 1402 Price Offered: $1350.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on March 8, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400

SPORTS

The New Tri-State Defender, February 9 - 15, 2023, Page 10

GRINDING WITH THE GRIZZLIES

DeAndre Williams gets the triple-team treatment. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The New TriState Defender)

Tigers were so close – yet so far – from beating Tulane

Almost perfect, but …

The Memphis Grizzlies – losers of eight of their last nine when they faced Toronto last Sunday – added to the frustrating tailspin by executing “the gameplan to a T” against the Raptors and still ending up on the short end. Memphis lost 106-103 loss at FedExForum on Sunday with the main problem being a combination of 21 second-chance points and turnovers that totaled 50 gifted points. Desmond Bane scores on the Raptors.

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

A one-point defeat in overtime drives the mind to find two points.

And while there were some glaring stat-sheet places to look in the Tigers’ 90-89 loss to Tulane in OT, Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway thinks one main point was the difference.

“That team has been chasing us like we were chasing Houston last year. They were hungry and got their same unit back. They wanted it more Terry than us,” said Davis Hardaway.

“No matter what I said, we couldn’t get in the same mind frame. They thought just because we were at home, we were going to win the game. You can’t take anything for granted.”

The Green Wave swept the series with the Tigers. Tulane knocked off Memphis 96-89 in overtime in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. Saturday’s loss at FedExForum snapped a four-game winning streak and put an end to a string of 16 home-court wins.

Tulane (15-7, 8-3 American Athletic Conference) moves ahead of the Tigers (17-6, 7-3 AAC) in the standings.

Just did not feel like a revenge game to me. I don’t know why we were not in this mode,” said Hardaway, referencing the early loss to the Green Wave.

“We knew what was at stake – home court, they were right behind us in the standings. An opportunity to (win) in front of the home crowd with Lorenzen’s (Wright) jersey being retired and coach (Larry) Finch bobblehead being presented today.

We did not do a good enough job to win the game.”

The Tigers got off to a good start taking an early 12-4 lead that grew to double-digits. But the Green Wave got rolling and pulled within three (46-43) at the half.

Turnovers (22) and missed free throws – 10, including three in OT – plagued Memphis. The Tigers outrebounded Tulane (48-28) but could not take advantage of their domination on the boards.

“They were just shrinking the court, packing the paint and making us take jump shots,” Hardaway said.

“We were getting in too deep and making the wrong pass.”

Winning it in the fourth …

Reeling under the weight of eight losses in nine games, the Grizzlies fought back from deficit going into the fourth quarter and pulled away from the Chicago Bulls 104-89 on Tuesday. Defense was key. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender)

Kendric Davis of the Tigers gets tied up by Tulane’s pesky Jalen Cook, who led the Green Wave in scoring and a one-point win in overtime.

Elijah McCadden is in need of a passing outlet in the paint for the Tigers.

The Green Wave also had issues with turnovers (18), yet found a way to win. Jalen Cook led the way with 25 points. Kevin Cross had 22 points and 5 assists and Jaylen Forbes had 22 points and 7 rebounds.

Kendric Davis the Tigers with 27 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds. He also set two American Athletic Conference records –583 assists and 497 free throws. DeAndre Williams had 19 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists.

Keonte Kennedy finished with 16 points.

“We did not put them away when

we had a chance,” Davis said. “I had too many turnovers to start the game. I have to be way better than that.

“We had too many missed free throws. We gave up a layup on miscommunications. We did everything we could to let them stick around.

They made us pay.”

Next up for the Tigers is a midweek trip to play the South Florida Bulls in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday night (Feb. 8). Visit TSDMemphis. com for the game story.

The “King” is on top…

LeBron James became the No. scorer in NBA history on Tuesday night, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who held the title for 40 years. James certainly took the Grizzlies to the hoop on many, many occasions. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)