The Tri-State Defender - February 15-21, 2024

Get TSD news, online anytime at TSDMemphis.com

February 15-21, 2024

VOL. 73, No. 7

www.tsdmemphis.com

$1.00

Memphis school board selects Marie Feagins as superintendent

By Laura Testino Chalkbeat Tennessee

What a feeling! A guest at the Love Yourself Event enjoys a facial. (Courtesy Photos)

‘Love Yourself Event’ prioritizes, pampers and pleases participants Owens: ‘It’s crucial for us to learn to take care of ourselves’

By Florence Howard

Special to The Tri-State Defender

A couple of really great singers, after mentioning something about believing the children are the future and giving them a sense of pride, also said that learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.

Well, there was a lot of learning and loving going on at the annual “Love Yourself Event,” held Feb. 8 in Germantown. There was plenty of dancing and singing too. Massages, facials, good laughter and good times were all on display at the event, hosted by entrepreneur and speaker Summer Owens.

“This event is not designed for you to sit down,” said Owens in her opening remarks. “It’s time to love yourself. It’s crucial for us to learn to take care of ourselves. So, we have incorporated all that into this event.”

The Love Yourself event exposed at-

“It’s time to love yourself. It’s crucial for us to learn to take care of ourselves.” — Summer Owens tendees to unique experiences through interaction with new and old businesses. Chair massages were provided by award-winning massage therapists Seidel Shipp, Derrick Pointer and Lewinfred

Shack. Shack, who also owns Touch Therapy, also provided tips on physical health and dealing with grief.

SEE LOVE ON PAGE 5

Marie Feagins is the school board’s choice to be the next superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools and the first outside leader to direct Tennessee’s largest school district since it was created through a merger a decade ago.

In a meeting Friday, school board members ended the Memphis superintendent search with a vote to select Feagins for the role. With successful contract negotiations, Feagins will join the district from her current position as chief of leadership and high schools for Detroit Public Schools Community District.

The board’s search went well into a second year and included no shortage of twists, turns, and disputes.

Marie Ultimately, the board reFeagins booted the application process last fall and narrowed “Welcome the finalist pool to three to Memphis, out-of-state candidates who returned to Memphis Superintendent earlier this month for a fiFeagins!” nal round of public inter- — Perspective views.

Page 3 As the new superintendent, Feagins will oversee a district of 100,000 students at a pivotal time.

Students have made some progress since the pandemic but have yet to totally rebound to scores that have historically lagged behind state averages. And, like other districts, Memphis is projecting a large budget gap as federal pandemic relief funds expire, leaving leaders to decide which academic programs and personnel they can afford to cut or keep. Plus, the current administration has launched a major facilities overhaul that could involve school consolidations and closures.

The new leader will also have to deal with direct challenges to local control from state leaders and lawmakers, who have stepped up the pressure on public school systems. A new

SEE FEAGINS ON PAGE 2

ANALYSIS: All-Star Game? These guys are just trying to make the league

By Terry Davis

TSD Sports Columnist

Lamar Stevens, who played college ball at Penn State, went undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft but signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he played for two seasons. Now with the Grizzlies, Stevens has a chance to carve out a more significant role for himself. (Photo: Terry Davis/Tri-State Defender)

The Memphis Grizzlies’ season has not unfolded as expected.

With high hopes of competing in the competitive Western Conference and building on their status as the number two seed in the last two playoffs, the team faced challenges, especially with All-Star Ja Morant’s suspension for the first 25 games.

Despite the setbacks, the season has offered a silver lining for the Grizzlies. They executed trades to increase flexibility for next season and will participate in the draft lottery. This opportunity, along with other potential packages,

could help them secure the missing piece at center that they’ve been seeking all season.

Four new members, Yuta Watanabe, Lamar Stevens, Scottie Pippen Jr., and Trey Jemison, are thrilled to be in Memphis. Watanabe, undrafted in 2018, Terry returned to Memphis in Davis a trade involving David Roddy. Having played for Toronto, Brooklyn, and the Suns, he averages 3.38 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. Watanabe aims to regain the form he

showed with the Raptors.

Stevens, a four-year veteran from Penn State, came to the Grizzlies in the Xavier Tillman trade. Averaging 5.1 points and 2.7 rebounds, the 6-foot-6 power forward has demonstrated his scoring ability off the bench.

Pippen and Jemison, both on two-way contracts, are in developmental roles. Pippen, son of Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, has had his best pro year, averaging 10.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. Coach Jenkins commented on Pippen’s situation: “It is unfortunate with the proration of two-contracts... We want to see him play meaningful minutes. It is

SEE GRIZZ ON PAGE 2

Get TSD News, announcements and special promotions in your email! visit TSDMemphis.com to sign up, or scan the code at right!

The Tri-State Defender

FEAGINS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT proposal would specifically target Memphis by expanding the school board with additional members appointed by state officials.

Eleventh-hour letters from Rep. Mark White, the Memphis Republican who plans to sponsor the proposal, as well as from Shelby County Commission Chair Miska Clay-Bibbs, also a former school board chair, urged the Memphis board to take no action Friday.

Said MSCS board Chair Althea Greene: “While we are interested in hearing from state legislators and other elected and business leaders, the time for critical input and action has passed.”

Board member Michelle McKissack nominated Feagins as a “visionary changemaker” the district needs.

In a statement issued by the school district, Feagins said she is honored and grateful to become the next superintendent.

“I am committed to doing whatever it takes to move us from good to phenomenal because that is what OUR city and county deserve,” Feagins said. “Together, we will defy the odds and become a national model of bold, transformational education.”

Feagins was in competition with Yolonda Brown, chief academic officer in Atlanta Public Schools and Cheryl Proctor, deputy superintendent of instruction and school communities for Portland Public Schools in Oregon. The Memphis board worked with outside search firm Hazard, Young, Attea and Associates to solicit applications.

Feagins is expected to start

by July 1.

She will follow in the steps of interim Superintendent Toni Williams, whose contract allows her to retain a role with the district through the next year. Williams, the district’s former finance chief, has had an active interim tenure, negotiating plans and financing for new school buildings, embarking on a plan for all of the district’s facilities, and reorganizing the district’s procurement and finance departments.

In August 2022, Williams was the single nominee for

GRIZZ

CONTINUED FROM FRONT a juggling act. He understands it.”

Jemison, a 6’11” center,

NEWS

interim leader while the board committed to a national search for a successor to former Superintendent Joris Ray, who agreed to resign from the post in a cloud of scandal.

Feagins shined for ability to endear teachers, Memphians Tomeka Hart Wigginton, part of the Memphis school board during its last superintendent search more than a decade ago, worked with the board on the rebooted search this summer and then helped evaluate the candidates.

Feagins received resounding support from the teachers surveyed, according to feedback presented by Hart Wigginton. Of the three candidates, Feagins was also the finalist who garnered the most support from board members as an appropriate fit for the district. On that point, community members who attended the interviews ranked Feagins similarly. Of the three finalists, Feagins had the smallest gap between how the board and interview audience evaluated her fit for Memphis.

Brown and Proctor received strong feedback about their academic experiences, but constituents weren’t convinced either finalist had a strong vision specific to Memphis, according to Hart Wigginton. Feagins, however, shined for her leadership and communication style – although there were some concerns about whether she has the experience necessary to deliver.

Hart Wigginton stressed that the presentation was not scientific, but a comprehensive review of the materials collected by the interview process that was meant to help guide the board’s discussion — not make the decision for them.

“You have three candidates with varied levels of strength. … Now you just have to be articulate and clear about what you need and which candidate matches that for you,” she said.

Each of the candidates received nominations from board members Friday, and it took board members two rounds of voting to arrive at the six required votes to select Feagins. Board members Amber Huett-Garcia and Mauricio Calvo, who cast votes for

scored his first NBA points this season and has a chance for significant playing time.

His former coach Willie Green said, “It warms my heart to see Trey get an opportunity like this... He is one of the hardest

February 15-21, 2024

Brown, and Keith Williams, who voted only present, agreed to update their votes for Feagins in an effort to show a united front of support.

In an email to Chalkbeat Friday, Brown thanked the board and wished them success “as they continue the journey to ensure that all students ‘see the future.’” Proctor didn’t respond to Chalkbeat’s invitation for comment.

What to know about new Memphis school superintendent Marie Feagins Feagins works in Detroit’s public school district with high school academic programming, and acts as a liaison for the district with the mayor’s office and state education department, she wrote in her application. Before coming to Detroit, she was a principal in Cleveland, and started her education career in Alabama.

“The right leader at the right place at the right time changes everything,” she told MSCS board members in December.

Feagins told board members in February that she increased the number of students who were on track to graduate in Detroit by monitoring data regularly and introducing a competition among schools.

Of managing teachers, she said: “People are okay with being responsible for the things that they can directly contribute to and own … I think that when you tell people what to do, you get robots. And when you empower them, then you get the type of creative leaders that we need in our spaces. And that’s how we get the results that we’re ultimately seeking.”

Feagins explained her approach to leading Memphis public schools like this: “I want people to get to know me first, and so that you know that the heart of the decisions are good, they’re pure, the intent is right. But you also know that I honor that the impact is what is felt most, and is what matters most ... and that’s where the leadership begins.”

(Laura Testino covers Memphis-Shelby County Schools for Chalkbeat Tennessee.

Reach Laura at LTestino@ chalkbeat.org.)

workers I have seen.”

These four additions have a golden opportunity to showcase their skills. Their performance could determine their future with the Grizzlies or another NBA team.

Page 2

The Tri-State Defender, February 15-21, 2024, Page 3

Patrons enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of District 12 Social Club. The venue’s engaging ambiance and curated events draw a dynamic crowd, epitomizing the essence of a modern social experience in Memphis.

Co-Founders Artemis “Peppa” Williams and Antonio D. Smith soak up the atmosphere on New Years at District 12 Social Club. Not pictured: Co Founder Brent Hooks. (Courtesy photos)

District 12 Social Club: A Vision Unveiled

Named for County Commission District where it sits, the owners envision ‘DXII’ as a sanctuary for “artistic-minded millennials.”

By Brianna Smith-Hermann TSD Correspondent

Embarking on a thrilling journey into the realms of food, beverage, and hospitality, the architects behind District 12 Social Club (DXII) unfold the inspirations and aspirations propelling the creation of this vibrant establishment.

Situated at 6642 Winchester Rd., District 12 Social Club emerges as a dynamic and stylish social bar and lounge, spanning a generous 5,000 square feet. With promises of live musical performances featuring various artists, influencers, and tastemakers, this venue is tailored for Memphis millennials seeking a vibrant and engaging social experience.

The ambiance is carefully curated to engage all senses, with hand-crafted cocktails, delectable small plates, and curated events that encapsulate ethos, logos, and pathos.

White patent booths along the walls create ideal spots to enjoy the entertainment, complemented by additional seating and standing areas strategically placed near the two central bars.

Named after its location within the Shelby County Commission’s District 12, owners Brent Hooks, Tony Smith, and Artemis “Peppa” Williams envision District 12 as a sanctuary for “artistic-minded millennials.” Their goal is to foster a strong sense of community within the social club, transcending its role as a venue to become a creative hub that nurtures networking, creativity, and unforgettable moments.

I had the opportunity to sit down with co-owner Brent Hooks to delve deeper into the genesis of DXII. Hooks traces his interest in the industry back to his early exposure through his uncle’s ownership of the renowned Plush Club—a Memphis nightlife hotspot during his high school and college years.

“Weekend shifts at the club became my classroom, introducing me to the industry intricacies and connecting me

A tantalizing display of District 12 Social Club’s culinary offerings — wings, shrimp, salad and more. A true testament to the venue’s commitment to elevated Southern-style cuisine. with entertainers and industry professionals,” Hooks recalls. “The pivotal opportunity to co-own the New Daisy Theater on Beale Street in 2016 marked the beginning of my journey.”

Reflecting on lessons learned from prior ventures and fueled by a growing personal and professional relationship

with Tony Smith, the vision of a collaborative space materialized. Last year, the stars aligned, presenting the perfect time and space for District 12 Social Club to take shape.

The unique selling proposition of District 12 lies in bringing the downtown and midtown vibes to East Memphis, offering a distinctive blend of ambiance and craft cocktails made with fresh ingredients. The objective is to foster a strong sense of community– a place where like-minded individuals can connect, unwind, and cultivate a profound sense of belonging.

The focus revolves around influential millennials seeking a dynamic and engaging social atmosphere. District 12 Social Club promises a unique experience characterized by memorable events, exquisite food offerings, and premium cocktails crafted with precision.

The drink menu is a fusion of timeless classics like the Old Fashioned and French 75, alongside modern libations such as the Lychee Martini and Espresso Martini.

Deanna, the Bar Manager, shares her insights on the Lychee Martini, made with fresh lychee and lime juice. She emphasizes the comfortable environment provided, where everyone can be themselves, have a variety of drinks and food, dance, and party.

The culinary offerings at District 12 include an array of elevated Southern-style menu items, ranging from diverse wings, flatbreads, eggrolls, and lamb chops.

Chef Cam (@WhoIsChefCam) adds to the culinary experience by highlighting their Caesar salad, featuring chopped chicken, bacon, and parmesan. “DXII is an environment where people can come in, let their hair down, relax, have great drinks and great food.”

The journey to bring District 12 Social Club to life is one of innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to creating an unparalleled experience for patrons. As the establishment evolves, so too will its impact on the Memphis nightlife scene, promising a refreshing blend of tradition and modernity. Here’s to crafting unforgettable moments at DXII!

PERSPECTIVE The Tri-State Defender, February 15-21, 2024, Page 4

‘Welcome to Memphis, Superintendent Feagins!’

Weathers: ‘I am anxious to see her plans take shape and unfold in the years to come’

By Curtis Weathers TSD Education Columnist

Finally, we have a new school superintendent for Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS). Welcome to Memphis, Dr. Marie Feagins; we wish you great success in your journey to create a successful school system in our great city.

The process of getting to this point was a long and arduous journey that lasted over a year and involved two rounds of searching. But, Curtis hopefully, the Weathers final outcome will be worth all the anxiety and frustrations the community has had to endure.

Although only two-thirds of the board voted in her favor during the first round, I was glad to see that during the second round, members agreed amongst themselves to make the final vote unanimous.

So , what do we know about Dr. Feagins?

Dr. Feagins comes to MSCS with a rich background in urban education. She started her education career in Alabama, served as a principal in Cleveland, Ohio, and is currently Chief of High Schools and Leadership Development for Detroit Public Schools. That’s the short list of accomplishments.

She holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Samford University, an Education Specialist/Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of West Alabama, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Alabama, and a Certificate in Education Finance from Georgetown University.

Her experience suggests that she has a deep understanding of urban education, a commitment to equity, and a vision for academic excellence.

She also strongly advocates for more mentors and resources at the school level.

In the Detroit school system, she was noted for her work in improving district graduation rates. Her “wholesoul” leadership style has been credited with sparking growth across high schools in Detroit, reflecting both improved student achievement and staff accomplishments in the classroom.

As superintendent here in Mem-

Dr. Marie Feagins phis, Dr. Feagins will face many challenges, including budget woes, poor performance on state assessments, teacher recruitment, juvenile crime, student attendance, and the lack of parental involvement, just to name a few. But her biggest challenge, of course, will be improving academic achievement across all grade levels.

I am anxious to see her plans take shape and unfold in the years to come.

During her interviews, Dr. Feagins expressed a belief in the importance

of public education and the critical role of leadership in the success of public schools, advocating for a more collaborative approach to enhancing the educational landscape in Memphis and Shelby County.

Dr. Feagins will officially begin her tenure as superintendent after the close of the 2023-24 school year, taking over from interim Superintendent Toni Williams, who has led MSCS for the last two years following the resignation of former superintendent Joris Ray. I have nothing but great respect and gratitude for interim superintendent Williams. She has done an outstanding job holding down the fort over the last two years, and I’m sure she will do everything in her power to help Dr. Feagins successfully transition into her new role. Although I believe the superintendent’s job should have been hers, I sincerely hope she decides to return to her previous role and help Dr. Feagins create a dynamic leadership team. I’m sure her stint as superintendent has enriched her career, and she will be an invaluable team member going forward.

Both the Detroit Public School District and Memphis-Shelby County Schools share similarities as large urban school systems facing comparable challenges. MSCS is the 23rd

largest school district in the United States and the largest in Tennessee, twice the size of Dr. Feagins’ Detroit school system. Thus, she can expect the challenges here in Memphis to be twice as large as well.

While I haven’t observed a lot of pomp and circumstance around her selection, her lack of prior superintendent experience has raised concerns for some. But her fresh perspective as an outsider and her experience with many of the challenges facing Memphis Shelby County Schools will undoubtedly be a very important advantage going forward.

Dr. Feagins appears to be a good choice for Memphis Shelby County Schools. Of course, how she performs as superintendent here in Memphis remains to be seen. Her success will depend on her ability to address the district’s many challenges and build trust with community stakeholders. While I’m sure she doesn’t have the answers to all of what ails Memphis Shelby County Schools, with her background and experience, she comes well-equipped to help our school system get to the right answers.

So again, congratulations, Dr. Feagins, we are here to support you. We will do all we can to help you succeed.

Information • Inspiration • Elevation Published by The Tri-State Defender

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tri-State Defender, 1509 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104.

GENERAL INFORMATION: Any and all inquiries may be submitted in writing by calling (901) 523-1818 or by email.

TELEPHONE: Editorial, administration, display advertising, classified advertising: (901) 523-1818. Fax: (901) 578-5037.

President Calvin Anderson Executive Editor Lee Eric Smith

The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly.

The Tri-State Defender, 1509 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104. Second-class postage paid in Memphis, TN.

The Tri-State Defender

February 15-21, 2024

Page 5

NEWS

A massage therapist leans into it at the Love Yourself Event.

(Courtesy photos)

Karen Brown brought her soulful stylings to the Love Yourself Event.

LOVE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT Meanwhile, CARE Aesthetics offered facials and skin appraisals. DJ Ari and vocalist Karen Brown kept the crowd up and dancing. Comedian Mzzz. Kecia kept the crowd laughing.

Kenneth Burnett of HotWorx Gym and Fitness Center in Collierville offered fitness tips. Ms. Black Tennessee Tamra Simmons spoke on mental health. Sonja Jackson of The Bridal Insider offered styling tips.

There was a 360-degree photo station hosted by Shabrenda Mitchell of iSEEu Photo Booth Entertainment. Sha’quille Fuller with Kre8ions Event Photography captured photos for the night, and artist Timothy Brunson provided hand-drawn portraits.

In addition to signature cocktails and wine, four different caterers offered a variety of menu items. T & T Catering, Lil Miracles Food Truck, Chat’s Perfections, and Beautiful Designs

by Lexi all had unique items for guests to enjoy (The collard green souffle? More please!)

Event vendors included longtime supporters like Margaret Rhodes with Pampered Chef and Vickie Riley, who offered paparazzi accessories. Also on the scene were Angela Price of Rich Lyfe Boutique and April Ghueder of Amplify Purpose! Planner.

Now in its seventh year, the benefit Owens’ S.O. What Foundation, was well-attended by folks not only from the Memphis area but also from her native Jackson, Tenn and across the state. Guests even came from as far away as Houston, Texas and Charlotte, North Carolina.

The fun-filled evening, coordinated by event planner Staci Franklin of It’s Your Day Weddings and Events, was chaired by foundation board members Bilicia Hill and Tammy Hart.

For attendees, “Love Yourself” was an opportunity to make new friends and to celebrate with other friends not seen since the COVID pandemic.

DJ Ari blended the beats for the Love Yourself Event.

This model rips the runway at the Love Yourself Event.

Summer Owens and Shelby County Commissioner Charlie Caswell Jr. Summer Owens called the 2024 event, “A powerful pre-Valentine’s Day event focused on self-love and designed to help participants “Feel Good. Look

Good. Do Good.”

In addition to being the founder and president of the S.O. What! organization, Owens is a leadership speaker, success coach, and

What? Men get facials too! author. The purpose of S.O. What! is to empower youth and young adults in overcoming obstacles to individual and family success.

A former marketing specialist advisor for FedEx who also

served as marketing manager for the Memphis Grizzlies and ServiceMaster, Summer Owens is a graduate of Jackson Central-Merry High School in Jackson (Tenn.).

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The University of Memphis.

She is a former Ms. University of Memphis, a past president of the National Alumni Board, and a winner of the U of M Distinguished Alumni Award. She also holds an MBA from Belhaven University.

For more information, visit The S.O. What! website at https:// www.thesowhatfoundation.org or https://www.summerowens.com.

The Tri-State Defender

SPORTS

February 15-21, 2024

GG Jackson II, the youngest player in the league, is quickly making a name for himself with the Memphis Grizzlies, earning him a four-year contract. (File Photo)

NEXT MAN UP

Grizzlies give young players the ball and they’re running with it

CLASSIFIEDS

Terminal Modernization & Seismic Program, Phase – Roadway Replacement ERP CLIENT Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority Construction Manager LOCATION Memphis International Airport 2491 Winchester Rd. Memphis, TN 38116 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This package will focus on the Roadway Structure, including demolishing and rebuilding the entire outer bridge and roadway as a make ready package for the Terminal Expansion.

RFP PACKAGES • Electrical and Low Voltage (Cut, Cap, and Make Safe) • Utilities (Cut, Cap and Make Safe) • Demolition of Existing Roadway • Drilled Shaft Foundations • Earthwork and utilities • Elevated Highway, Street, Structural Concrete • Curbs, Sidewalks, and on grade concrete drive ANTICIPATED PROCUREMENT PERIOD Dates below are subject to change.

RFP Issued February 9th, 2024 Pre-Bid Conference February 15th, 2024 Proposal Due March 7th, 2024 RFP DOCUMENTS: Visit the Public Plan Room Type or copy URL into web browser: tinyurl.com/mv6353m9 DBE Participation Goal 26% DBE Participation PREQUALIFICATION All proposing companies must be prequalified at the time of proposal submission.

Visit Turnerconstruction.com|Become a Subcontractor Type or copy URL into web browser: https://www.turnerconstruction. com/sub-contractors IF INTERESTED, EMAIL: Khalif Johnson, TAC JV - Procurement Manager kajohnson@tcco.com

By Terry Davis

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

It’s a reality of NBA life: Large market teams like the Lakers, Clippers, Knicks and Heat can attract big name free agents to form superteams.

Small market teams like the Memphis Grizzlies must rely on finding and nurturing talent through the NBA Draft.

Luck helps. That’s how lottery balls aligned to bring two Top 5 picks in Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant to Memphis in back-to-back years. But the Grizzlies’ front office has excelled at unearthing hidden gems and developing them into true players.

Terry Just ask Desmond Bane, Davis who went 30th in the 2020 NBA Draft and has blossomed into an All-Star caliber player in Memphis.

And thanks to this injury-ravaged season, it looks like they’ve found a couple of diamonds with Vince Williams Jr. and GG Jackson II. Williams, who has impressed in the Summer League and with the Memphis Hustle, transitioned from a two-way contract to earning a full contract with the Grizzlies due to his consistent performance, especially on the defensive end.

“I am more confident and the coach believes in me more,” Williams said after the MLK Game. “With some of the guys out, I had to step up. I am taking advantage of the opportunity and looking forward, not back.”

Williams’ play has drawn comparisons to Tony Allen from the Grit and Grind era. Averaging 9.4 points and 5.4 rebounds, Williams has appeared in 42 games this season.

“I am super excited he got rewarded with an NBA contract,” said Grizzlies Coach Taylor Jenkins. “He has worked so hard on both sides of the ball. Defensively he has versatility. Taking on tough matchups and being able to switch and help on the boards. Offensively his flooring spacing and quick decision ability is something I have been impressed with.”

The league has taken notice as well. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver plucked Williams as an injury replacement for the Panini Rising Stars Challenge game, set for Friday night in Indianapolis.

From second round pick, to G-League to All Star Weekend. Not bad.

“It is a great honor. It feels good, but I know I have to keep my head down and keep working,” Williams said. “I just play for the guys.

The outcome will be my outcome.”

Meanwhile, GG Jackson was expected to have a ‘red-shirt year’ playing in Southaven all year with the Memphis Hustle where he could learn how to be a professional athlete.

However, with his teammates nursing injuries in street clothes, Jackson’s role expanded significantly. Through the first 36 games, Jackson only appeared in four games and scored eight points. He played a total of 18 minutes in

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:

The Tri-State Defender

Tiana E Pyles Tax Parcel #: 06103300000040 Tax Sale #: 1903 Price Offered: $3,000 Terms: Cash

With hard-nosed defense reminiscient of “The Grindfather” Tony Allen, Vince Williams Jr.’s ascension from the G-League to a full NBA Contract is a Grizzlies success story. (File photo) those games.

His breakout game came during the MLK game on Jan. 15, where he had 23 points and six boards off the bench. It earned him a walkoff interview with TNT’s “Inside the NBA” crew.

“Playing with the G-League, you gotta take every game seriously,” Jackson told TNT’s Ernie Johnson. “All glory be to God, I’ve been putting the work in and listening to everything the coaches tell me to do and trying to be as coachable as possible.”

In the last 17 games, Jackson scored in double digits in 11 of those, including a 27-point performance against the Chicago Bulls - a record for a rookie off the bench, breaking a record set by Kobe Bryant, who once scored 25 points off the bench during his rookie season in 1997.

“It’s not a secret. When you see him play, he’s going to be a great, great player,” teammate Santi Aldama said after Jackson’s big game. “He’s always asking questions and trying to be better. When you have a guy with that care factor on top of all the skill he has, he’s going to be special for sure.”

Moments later, NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal praised the teen on national TV. A clip of the segment went viral because Jackson was visibly starstruck to be speaking to The “Big Aristotle.”

“I just wanna say I’m proud of you, and if people didn’t know who you were, they know now,” Shaq said.

If all goes well for the Grizzlies — meaning they’re healthy — you may not see as much of Williams or Jackson next season. Those extended minutes they’re getting now presumably will go back to players like Morant, Bane, Smart and Brandon Clarke.

But the youngsters have earned their NBA Contracts and their places on the team. As they gain more experience and refine their skills under the Grizzlies’ developmental system, they could become key contributors to the team’s success — as soon as next season.

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 a.m. on 3/13/2024, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Page 6

THE TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS

1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 PH (901) 523-1818 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

DEADLINES: Display ads Friday 5 p.m.

Classifieds ads Monday 5 p.m.

STANDARD RATES: $6.00 per line for 1 column ad.

Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation. For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com.

GENERAL INFORMATION: Some categories require prepayment.

All ads subject to credit approval. The

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: MEMPHIS ACQUISITIONS LLC Tax Parcel #: 02605600000540 Tax Sale #: 1903 Price Offered: $2,400 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 3/13/2024, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

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: John Love III Tax Parcel #: 05007200000170 Tax Sale #: 703 Price Offered: $2,500 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 a.m. on 3/13/2024, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE

Tri-State Defender reserves the right to correctly classify and edit all copy or to reject or cancel any ad at any time.

Only standard abbreviations accepted.

Copy change during ordered schedule constitutes new ad & new changes.

Deadlines for cancellation are identical to placement deadlines. Rates subject to change.

ADJUSTMENTS: PLEASE check your ad the first day it appears. Call (901) 523-1818 if an error occurs. We can only offer in-house credit and NO REFUNDS are issued.

THE TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.

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: Anthony Hatch Tax Parcel #: 03509200000240 Tax Sale #: 1802 Price Offered: $3,000 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 3/13/2024, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

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: Anthony Hatch Tax Parcel #: 03509200000230 Tax Sale #: 1902 Price Offered: $3,000 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 11 a.m. on 3/13/2024, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150