The New Tri-State Defender - February 23-March 1, 2023

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February 23 - March 1, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 8

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African-American History

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Time for the reparations conversation in Shelby County, says County Commission’s Black Caucus

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

done that yet. They didn’t do that today.”

Nichols died on January 10, three days after a brutish beating captured by video footage, the subsequent release of which fanned national and international outrage.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith are due back in court on May 1. Free on bond, they also are charged with aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Attorney Benjamin Crump, who heads the legal team representing Nichols’ family, said it was a “very informative day as we move closer to justice,” expressing gratitude to Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy, lead prosecutor Paul Hagerman and the district attorney team.

Bubbling up out of the Shelby County Board of Commissioners Black Caucus is a resolution calling for a comprehensive study on how reparations would look in Shelby County.

The resolution, which is spearheaded by Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr., is sponsored by all eight caucus members and is scheduled for committee-level discussion on Wednesday. If it makes it to the full commission, seven votes would be needed for adoption.

“With a county comEdmund Ford Jr. mission that has the most females ever and the most African Americans ever, this is the perfect time and the perfect storm in order to proactively study community reparations and actually put some work and items in place that we can act on down the road,” Ford said.

The resolution sets out earmarking up to $5 million “to look at five pillars where African Americans have been disenfranchised over generations.”

Ford said the American Rescue Plan Act could be a source for the funds, adding that there are other avenues for the initial stage outlined in the resolution. The longer-term goal would be to identify a dedicated funding source to continue to fund the pillars beyond the terms of anyone now serving on the commission.

As outlined by Ford, the five pillars are: Housing – increasing access to affordable housing, African-American home ownership and receiverships, while providing education to combat practices such as redlining, block-busting, steering and gentrification that hinder communities.

Mental health and discovering ways to provide affordable healthcare. Also identifying clinical differences between infant mor-

SEE TYRE ON PAGE 6

SEE REPARATIONS ON PAGE 2

A “Black History Tour” of Memphis last weekend with several teenage boys landed TSD education columnist Curtis Weathers and the group at the National Civil Rights Museum and presented him with a teaching opportunity.

See Perspective, Page 4. (Courtesy photos)

With an eye toward justice, Tyre Nichols’ Family takes step one of ‘the process’

by Karanja A. Ajanaku The New Tri-State Defender

“They (the five officers) are going to see me at every court date, every one, until we get justice for my son,” said RowVaughn Wells, the mother of Tyre D. Nichols. “They didn’t even have the courage to look at me in my face after what they did to my son. …” (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)

The initial in-court process of securing justice for Tyre D. Nichols began last Friday morning as each of the five former officers accused of second-degree murder – and more – stood before Shelby County Criminal Court Judge James Jones Jr. and mouthed the words “not guilty.”

“Saying they’re not guilty, that’s a preliminary thing. Everybody is gonna say that,” Nichol’s mother, RowVaughn Wells, said after the hearing at the Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Center.

“They (the five officers) are going to see me at every court date, every one, until we get justice for my son,” said Wells. “They didn’t even have the courage to look at me in my face after what they did to my son. … They haven’t

When duty called, Officer Geoffrey Redd answered

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Officer Geoffrey Redd’s legacy lives on in the way he lived his life.

On Feb. 2, the Memphis Police Department officer was left fighting for his life after being shot by a suspect trespassing the White Station Library.

Redd, 49, a member of the MPD for 15 years, died Saturday (Feb. 18).

“As you can imagine, his family as well as the church family is deeply saddened,” said Bishop

Brandon Porter, pastor of Greater Community Temple, where Redd worshipped.

The suspect in Redd’s shooting, Torence Johnson, died on the scene when Redd’s partner returned fire.

According to Porter, this was Redd’s second close call with death.

“One year ago, Officer Redd was on traffic detail when he was hit by an on-coming car,” said Porter. “Officer Redd was propelled several feet up into the air and landed on his face. He almost lost an eye.”

Porter said after the accident, Redd was left

without the ability to walk.

“Redd’s mother would bring him to church in a wheelchair,” said Porter. “The church prayed for him, and he began to improve. He regained the ability to walk and live independently.

“And what did he do? Redd went right back to work for the Police Department. He really had a sincere desire to protect and serve his community.”

A statement released by the MPD said Redd served at the Old Allen, Union, Raines, Mt. Moriah, Ridgeway, and Apple Farms stations.

Redd formerly served in the U.S. Marine Corps, MPD said.

Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr. issued a statement, expressing sympathy on behalf of his department: “I was deeply saddened Geoffrey to hear that Memphis Redd Police Officer Geoffrey Redd has succumbed to his injuries and passed away today. On behalf of all the men and women of

SEE REDD ON PAGE 2

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The New Tri-State Defender

February 23 - March 1, 2023

Page 2

NEWS

“Many see the payment of reparations as the only structural solution to persistent Black-white economic and social disparities, one that we as a country have put off for generations.” — Kyle K. Moore REPARATIONS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT tality rates and life expectancy rates between African Americans and their counterparts.

Categorizing areas within criminal justice that have shown historical disenfranchisement of African Americans. Also finding holistic solutions to aid those who “have the desire and will to re-enter society without having significant barriers.”

Enhancing career opportunities and business ownership while promoting higher pay to close the wealth gap.

Promoting financial literacy, financial freedom, and generational wealth.

As economist Kyle K. Moore with the Economic Policy Institute’s Program on Race, Ethnicity and the Economy points out, “The payment of reparations to Black Americans for slavery and the post-emancipation legacy of intense discrimination has been hotly debated for many years.

“Many see the payment of reparations as the only structural solution to persistent Black-white economic and social disparities, one that we as a country have put off for generations.”

Several cities and legislative bodies have embarked on the reparations path, including Asheville, N.C., Evanston, Illinois, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Providence, Rhode Island.

In a blog post last week (Feb. 15), Moore said California’s Reparations Task Force represents the largest state effort to investigate reparations.

“This is our first year in a new term, and we’re talking about things like this now,” said Ford. “We’re working on this right now so that we can have intentional and actionable items to consider. …”

Ford said the resolution reflects a collaboration, with input from all the caucus members. Commissioner Charlie A. Caswell Jr. said the work that the reparations study committee would coordinate is in line with a focus he long has had regarding infant

REDD

CONTINUED FROM FRONT the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, I offer my prayers and deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the Memphis Police Department.

He died protecting the citizens of Memphis and Shelby County, and we are truly heartbroken.”

Porter recalled the time when Redd first came to the church.

“Officer Redd noticed that we were one of a very few churches still involved in activities, despite the pandemic,” said Porter. “It was March of 2020 when he joined

Charlie Caswell

Britney Thornton

mortality in the community, trauma and mental health.

“I always have studied and researched just why were we in these predicaments of lack of care and resources in underserved communities and knowing the history of how did we get here,” said Caswell, sharing thoughts that he was processing before learning that Ford “was working on something.”

Caswell said after seeing a Harvard University study “that talked about how Black people were highly affected by the pandemic due to lack of receiving reparations,” he started working toward a resolution.

“And when I found out about Ford working on it, we just looked at both of our work, research, and saw that it was a fit to come together on it.”

While the yield from the study committee process would be worked out over time, Caswell said evidence and research already in hand point to things that can be done immediately that “will impact Black and brown people, especially who live in our communities that have been kept from receiving those resources. But yes, I do see it as an ongoing document that will build some capacity around us being able to do some stuff bigger and deeper as more study and research come out of this.”

Commissioner Britney Thornton views the focus on reparations as “a very responsive effort. We’ve seen other cities across the nation choose to really prioritize this and really be ambitious in their reparation packages that they’re trying to construct to benefit their constituencies. I’ve just

Greater Community Temple.

“We asked him to be director of security, and he said ‘yes.’

And he has been working diligently in that capacity from that time. Officer Redd was also a teacher and a minister.

He was an excellent Sunday School teacher.”

Porter said Redd’s death for his family was especially devastating, but especially so to his wife.

“When Officer Redd came to join our church, he saw a woman who he would later marry,” said Porter. “I married them, and I know his death is especially hard for his wife. She is a wonderful, Christian lady who is over our counseling.

“I’m thinking Redd is looking

really been inspired.”

Once she heard the idea introduced

by Ford, Thornton said she was gung ho about the concept “that he’s outlined … the five different areas that he’s focusing on. It just sounded like a really great opportunity for us to dig deeper and to start to consider what it looks like to really assess and do capacity-building work within these respective areas.

“It felt like a strong start to a holistic approach to be able to really just help the local Black community get to its next level.”

Thornton stressed that it is a “start.”

“We know that this $5 million is just a start. … This resolution is by no means saying $5 million is all that is due. It’s really just saying we want to equip these respective partners with funds to be able to advance the conversation. I am super excited to see where this conversation goes. …

“We welcome input from stakeholders, supporters, definitely practitioners and service providers in these respective (pillar) areas. So, it’s more of just an all-call and the Black Caucus is here to create space for Black people in Shelby County. It’s a tool….”

As envisioned, a reparations subcommittee would be appointed and operate under the Core City Neighborhood and Housing Committee headed by Commissioner Henri Brooks, whom Ford noted had a history of working on items in the pillar areas that dates to her time as a state legislator and her previous service on the commission.

“I think it’s time. It’s past time (for the focus on reparations),” Brooks said. “We have a number of progressive young people on the commission, well-read individuals who understand that it is time to have that conversation. And when you have that real conversation, then the concept of reparations will be organic.”

Putting in perspective “the institution of enslavement … the aftermath, the laws, the Jim Crow and … even all … what you call the civil rights acts that were passed … and

at counseling, but it turns out he is looking at something altogether different.”

Porter said the two had only been married a few months.

U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen of Memphis, released a statement, expressing condolences to the family: “I was very saddened to learn of the death of officer Redd.

Two weeks after the shooting, I hoped he was going to make it.

Sadly, that was not the case. He responded properly to a call and did his job as an officer. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and his many friends.”

Final arrangements are expected to be complete by the weekend. R.S. Lewis & Sons has charge.

Henri Brooks

“I think it’s time. It’s past time (for the focus on reparations). We have a number of progressive young people on the commission, well-read individuals who understand that it is time to have that conversation. And when you have that real conversation, then the concept of reparations will be organic.”

— Henri Brooks

still not enforced … it’s still not giving us the healing, the repairing and actually doing what the legislative intent was. It’s still not happening for us.

“So why is that? Because people are not intentional and they’re not intentional because they don’t understand. That’s my opinion,” said Brooks.

“I see it (the proposed move toward a study of reparations) as a beginning. It’s the beginning of the conversation … toward that repair and healing and trying to rectify the damage that’s been done. Even though it can never be fully rectified, we can at least acknowledge what is happening through that conversation and then get on the road to compensation.

“Because compensation is the only way that we are going to minimize or stop some of the disparities, the gaps, particularly in wealth.”

Caswell emphasized that he sees stepping toward reparations “as something that’s good for all concerned.”

He referenced the economic impact of money being spent on medical trauma and in the criminal justice arena, along with money lost when people don’t have the education and skill sets to fill jobs that come to the community.

“I do see that once we make the case and let people see how it’s affecting our pockets, holistically, that others can, will get on board and not look at this as something just for Black folk and leaving other folks out of it.”

In his blog post, Moore with the Economic Policy Institute detailed five principles for making state and local reparations plans truly reparative: * Acknowledge and apologize for the harm done. *Material redress to the beneficiaries. * Specify what harms are being addressed and who will benefit. * Don’t attempt to absolve the federal government of its responsibility to provide redress for its harm. *Include structural change and a commitment to ongoing vigilance against future racial injustice.

Ford envisioned the reparations subcommittee being able to examine those principles as well as what has been explored in other cities and input from myriad other sources in the nine to 12 months it may be at work honing in on the five pillars.

“African Americans historically have been disenfranchised, whether it’s policies that were unjust or otherwise. So, this is the time to do it. And I hope that our constituents at large can see this as something that we are definitely going to work hard in succeeding with,” he said.

“We’re working on behalf of our constituents that we represent to let them know this is something that we want them to embrace. It’s an open door. We want them to participate and at the same time let’s work collectively so that we can make things happen. I’ll say this, when Black people do better, everybody wins.”

The New Tri-State Defender

February 23 - March 1, 2023

NEWS

A selection of books with AfricanAmerican History Month in mind

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The month of February has whipped by so fast that you almost missed it.

It’s true that the month is short, as compared to the other months, but no worries. There’s still a lot remaining, surely enough left to catch one of these great Black History Month books...

It’s been more than a century since the Tulsa Race Massacre and it still seems like there’s much to learn about it. In “Requiem for the Massacre” by RJ Young (Counterpoint, $27), you’ll read about how descendants of survivors marked the centennial anniversary of that day in 1921, how officials are reckoning with what happened, and... what happened.

If you examine the decades between Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her bus seat and Black Lives Matter, you can clearly see how activism has changed with the times.

Author Mark Whitaker writes about one year of it in “Saying It Loud” (Bloomsbury, $29.99). Set in 1966, this book shows how Black Power changed the way young Black Americans fought for Civil Rights, and what it means today. This reads like a novel, and it should be on your bookshelf.

Readers who love sports will want “The Education of Kendrick Perkins” by Kendrick Perkins with Seth Rogoff (St. Martin’s Press, $29.99). Here’s Perkins’ story, from his childhood in Beaumont, Texas to his budding love of basketball, his NBA career, and playing with the sport’s biggest and best-known games. This is a fan’s book, perfect

Page 3

African American History Month Calendar LeMoyne-Owen College Feb. 24 Collegiate 100 Pinning Ceremony Metropolitan Baptist Church 3 p.m.

Southwest Community College Feb. 27-28 Black History Month Jeopardy Macon Campus 12 p.m.

Memphis/Shelby County Public Library Feb. 24 Black History HBCU College Fair Raleigh Library – Meeting Room Feb. 24 Celebrate Black Artists – Romare Bearden 10 a.m.-noon

for any season.

If a real-life thriller is more to your liking, then look for “Master Slave Husband Wife” by Ilyon Woo (Simon & Schuster, $29.99). In 1848, Ellen and William Craft left the plantation on which they were enslaved, and they slipped away North. Here’s how: Ellen masqueraded as a rich white man during their flight, while her husband acted as the “man’s” slave. Needless to say, their audacious run was hailed

by Frederick Douglass and other Black luminaries of their day; most astoundingly, that’s not the end of this heart-pounding story.

You gotta read this book.

And speaking of freedom, “I Saw Death Coming” by Kidada E. Williams (Bloomsbury, $30.00) is a book about the years after the Civil War and how Reconstruction affected the newly-free and their families.

Through genuine stories of several

Black History Books for Adults c. 2023, various publishers $27-$30 Various page counts formerly enslaved people, both men and women, Williams shows how just getting by day-to-day was a struggle: with the rise of the Klan, merely existing was dangerous. And perhaps one of the most frightening things of all might have been the dawning realization that the government was of limited help, if at all.

This is a fascinating book, perfect for historians and Civil War buffs.

If these books are not enough for your pleasure or learning, be sure to ask your favorite librarian or bookseller for help. They can show you hundreds, if not thousands, of books that will enlighten, teach, entertain, or shock you. These are books you need to read now, or soon – because knowing Black history requires more than just a month.

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

Freedom Awards Mahogany Ball...

The College Chapter of the NAACP at the University of Memphis presented the Freedom Awards Mahogany Ball at the University Center Ballroom on Feb. 17th. Pictured (l-r): Torrey Bates, religion honoree; Victoria Ragland, community service honoree; Dr. Kandi Hill-Clarke, education honoree; Cortney Richardson, young alumni honoree. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, February 23 - March 1, 2023, Page 4

For the children’s sake, let us not allow our history to be forgotten!

by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Has anyone else noticed a decline this year in the volume of Black History celebrations in our communities and, in particular, our schools?

Or am I just being paranoid!

I’ve asked this question to friends who educators are, and they, too, agree that the enthusiasm and energy around Black History Month have clearly dissipated compared to previous years.

Curtis I remind us all that Weathers it is extremely important that our children know our history.

The 28 days of February are some of the most important days of the year for African Americans. It is a time to reflect on the past, celebrate our accomplishments, and look forward to the future.

It is an opportunity for us to commemorate the many outstanding achievements of African Americans, despite the history of racism and oppression inflicted upon us over the years.

Most of all, it is a time to teach our children the history of our struggles that are probably not being taught as part of their everyday school curriculum.

Without history, our communities and society at large share no common memory of where it has been, its core values, or what past decisions account for present circumstances.

Last weekend, I was with a group of teenage boys on a “Black History Tour” of Memphis. We stopped at several iconic locations that portrayed the struggles and accomplishments of African Americans both locally and nationally.

Among the sites we visited was the Civil Rights museum.

A museum exhibit displays the lunch counter protest at a Woolworth store, where Black people endured verbal and physical abuse while protesting the discriminatory practices in the community and, in particular, at the Woolworth stores.

I noticed one of our students staring intently at the exhibit and watching the video on the screen overlooking the display. The video was graphic and disturbing to watch.

The young boy turned to me and asked, “So what’s going on here, Mr. Weathers?”

I explained to him that those were four African-American college students in the early 1960s who were part of a nonviolent protest.

They walked into a department store (F.W. Woolworth) in Greensboro, North Carolina, and after purchasing school supplies, went to the lunch counter and politely asked to be served.

They were refused service and quickly surrounded by a crowd of angry white people who cursed and berated them.

The students sat at that lunch counter until the store closed and still were not served.

I made sure to tell the young man that their efforts were not in vain. Their actions launched a new kind of “nonviolent” protest that found success in many other cities

Curtis Weathers: “We have a responsibility as a community to inform our children and crush any and all attempts to misrepresent our past in order to make other peoples’ past more comfortable.” (Courtesy photos)

The array of exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum includes a display of the historic lunch counter protest at the Woolworth store in Greensboro, N.C. throughout the south, including Memphis.

Carter G. Woodson, known as the faThe student looked at me and said, ther of Black history, wrote, “Those who “Wow…that’s inhave no record of tense” and he moved what their forebears on to the next exhib- The 28 days of February are have accomplished it. some of the most important lose the inspiration I smiled, and, of which comes from days of the year for African the teaching of biogcourse, my mind began to wonder about raphy and history.”

Americans. It is a time to the kind of experibelieved reflect on the past, celebrate thatWoodson ences the other stuif children, esour accomplishments, and pecially Black childents were having as they strolled through look forward to the future. dren, were more the museum. familiar with their I also started wonhistory, they would dering about the have a deeper sense kind of impact the of pride and underanti-Critical Race Theory (CRT) move- standing of the critical role Black people ment might be having on our children’s have played in U.S. history. exposure to and understanding of Black I concur. history in America.

History, as a discipline, is about making

sense of the past to understand the present.

We have a responsibility as a community to inform our children and crush all attempts to misrepresent our past in order to make other peoples’ past more comfortable.

When we talk, especially about social issues and race relations, those conversations must be informed by our knowledge and an understanding of history, particularly Black history.

But let’s not sleep on what the anti-CRT movement is trying to do here in America.

Conservatives define Critical Race Theory as nearly anything taught in schools that would discuss racial inequality. And they want to ban all such discussions from our classrooms.

The perceived success of anti-CRT campaigns jeopardizes any meaningful discussions of systemic inequality as part of public-school education. And these types of disinformation campaigns must be confronted and crushed.

African-American history is American history, and American history is part of world history.

Black History Month represents Black influence around the world.

Today, we not only celebrate Black astronauts, scientists, inventors, activists, educators, and artists of the past; we also celebrate the rise of Black business, athletes, literature, and the arts that will influence our children’s future for many years to come.

We, as African Americans, have a lot to be proud of. Let us not allow our history to be forgotten by depriving, intentionally or unintentionally, our children of the knowledge of our past.

We must make a special effort, above and beyond, to ensure our children know and never forget the truth about our history.

(Follow me, TSD’s education columnist, on Twitter @curtisweathers. Email me at curtislweathers@gmail.com.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

February 23 - March 1, 2023

Page 5

RELIGION

The mix at ‘Mother’ King’s homegoing reflected her life

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

The sanctuary at First Calvary Episcopal Church in Downtown Memphis was the destination point for an eclectic group of people who assembled for the homegoing service for Georgia Anna King, also known as “Mother King” and “Queen Akua.”

“Mother King could bring people together that normally would never be in the same circle,” said Dr. Carnita Atwater, who delivered the eulogy last Friday (February 17). “She built bridges between human needs.”

A seemingly ever-present voice for social justice issues, Mother King died on Feb. 7. She was 82.

Comfortable in any setting, Mother King always came as herself, adorned in an African headwrap and clothes that reflected her strong roots in her African heritage. With style and grace, she was about the business of advocating for economic empowerment for distressed communities, the poor and the homeless.

Dr. Atwater said most did not know the health challenges Mother King faced.

That, she said, was because Mother King would flash her “big beautiful smile” while pushing on and forward.

At the time of her death, Mother 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.

No one really needed to deliver a eulogy for Mother King, said Atwater, noting that her work was her eulogy.

Dr. Atwater, who knew Mother King for decades, implored those at the homegoing to follow in Mother King’s footsteps regarding “devotion to this community” and working responsibly.

She described Mother King as a change agent.

“I just believe that Mother King, if she had the opportunity, she could have stopped the January 6th insurrection. I

Dr. Carnita Atwater delivers the eulogy for Georgia King, aka Mother King and Queen Akua, at First Calvary Episcopal Church. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/ The New Tri-State Defender)

The procession out of First Calvary Episcopal Church as the homegoing service for Georgia King came to an end.

Rep. Justin Pearson was one of the lectors during the homegoing service for Georgia King. just believe that Mother King could have changed the heart of President Trump,” said Dr. Atwater.

And, she added, had Mother King been around the night Tyre Nichols was stopped by Memphis police “I believe … she could have humbled those officers’ spirit.”

First Calvary Episcopal Church is the sister church to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, where Mother King was a member. Dr. Atwater said she never

heard Mother King identify herself as a Christian yet saw her always move and relate to others in a God-like manner.

She was, said Dr. Atwater, “a pillar of what a faithful and Georgia King diligent soul was.”

During her 60plus years of community service, Mother King founded the Greater Works Ministry, Housing Now Task Force and the Memphis Bus Riders Union.

A line in the funeral program reflected Mother King’s view of life in her own words: “There is always work to be done.”

“By the grace of God and with great joy”…

Elder Theldridge Haley was installed as pastor of New Jerusalem Church of God In Christ, 2711 Ketchum on last Sunday (Feb. 19) afternoon. Bishop David A. Hall, a COGIC board member and head of the Tennessee Headquarters Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction conducted the installation. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

LEGACY: Emma Jean Hubbard Stotts Services were held last Friday (Feb. 17) for Emma Jean Hubbard Stotts, who co-founded the River City (TN) Chapter of the Links Incorporated. She passed away on Feb. 4 at age 92. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that donations be made to the River City Links MardisStotts Scholarship Fund at LeMoyne Owen College.

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

The New Tri-State Defender

February 23 - March 1, 2023

NEWS

Page 6

Crump-led contingent asks DOJ for probe of jail inmate’s homicide

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

The homicide of Gershun Freeman – associated with a physical encounter with corrections officers in the Shelby County Jail four days after he was arrested last October – warrants a U.S. Department of Justice investigation.

So said those who issued a call for that move during a press conference outside the D’Army Bailey Courthouse in Downtown Memphis on Friday afternoon.

Anchoring the call for the federal inquiry was renowned attorney Benjamin Crump, the lead attorney for the family of Tyre D. Nichols. Friday morning and just a few blocks away, Crump had orchestrated another press conference after the arraignment of the five former officers charged with second-degree murder in Nichols’ death.

With members of Freeman’s family alongside, Crump called for Department of Justice (DOJ) intervention in concert with Nichols family co-counsel, Van Turner Jr., president of the Memphis Branch NAACP, and two other local attorneys, Jake Brown and Brice Timmons. Other notables included Just City Executive Director Josh Spickler.

“This isn’t the first allegation of brutality of marginalized people in the county jail,” said Crump, referencing the experiences of those joining in the call for a federal inquiry into Freeman’s death. “Just because you

The family of 33-year-old Gershun Freeman is “demanding full transparency,” said attorney Benjamin Crump, as he and others called for a probe by the U.S. Department of Justice. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Gershun Freeman’s wife, Nicole Freeman, and their daughter, Taylor. are a detainee in the county jail does not mean that the jailers get to be the judge, the jury and the executioners.”

Freeman’s death was determined to be a homicide during an autopsy that attributed his death to exacerbation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

The report didn’t affix the homicide to criminal intent with a certainty.

There is video, said Brown, showing that officers used batons, firsts and and a metal object while beating Freeman during an encounter. Freeman, while restrained, went into cardiac arrest and died despite officers rendering CPR. “It is shocking to think that here in Memphis, where we recently witnessed the abuse on video (where) law enforcement beat an unarmed Black man to death, that inside the jail we might have another instance of law enforcement beating an unarmed Black man to death,” said Crump.

Worse, he said, Freeman was naked.

Gershun Freeman’s parents (Kimberly Freeman and George Burks.

“It’s hard to say that he had a weapon or that you were in fear of your life when he is naked in a jail. Why do they continue to engage in the most excessive use when it’s Black citizens? We continue to raise this issue over and over again.”

Freeman was arrested in connection with an incident involving a woman he knew. He was accused of an attack on the woman and of subsequently taking her from his home to another location, where she was let go.

The West Tennessee Regional Forensic Center conducted the autopsy, which according to some who have seen it, also indicates that Freeman, 33, had a psychosis history that could have contributed to his death.

“The family is demanding full transparency,” said Crump. “We want to see each part of this video frame by frame by frame. It should be released to the public so everybody can see what happened to Gershun Freeman. …

“We believe once we have trans-

parency we can get the truth, and, most importantly, we can get to justice….”

There is an ongoing investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), as well as a review by the office of Shelby County District Atty. Gen. Steve Mulroy. The Sheriff’s office has chosen not to release the video to the public up to now.

In a statement Saturday morning, Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr. said, “I’ve spoken with the DA and asked him to expedite the investigation and the release of the TBI file. I was supportive of the DA’s decision to show the video to the family and attorneys of Gershun Freeman, and that has been done.”

Bonner said he was committed to “protecting the integrity of an ongoing investigation.”

“At the present time, we are waiting to receive the findings of both the TBI and the district attorney’s office.

No other action is planned until they are concluded.”

Timmons said conditions at the jail had regressed since a period of improvement following a consent agreement with the Department of Justice in 2001. Now, he said, it is “one of the most dangerous, violent and constitutionally deficient in the country.”

On August 24, 2000, federal offi-

TYRE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT “Even though we want everybody to get due process … it’s important that we move swiftly toward justice,” he said. “We don’t want there to be any unnecessary delays in prosecuting this case with respect to everybody having their day in court. Those officers get to have their day in court. But my God, RowVaughn Wells and Rodney Wells get their day in court. …”

Assistant District Attorney Hagerman told reporters that “Memphis and the whole world needs to see that what’s right is done in this case, and it needs to happen sooner rather than later.”

With a throng of reporters, photographers and local activists all maneuvering for position outside the courtroom, Mills’ attorney, Blake Ballin, said that while “much has been said about the way the system has failed Mr. Nichols,” he would “work tirelessly to make sure the system does not fail Mr. Mills.”

A fair outcome, he said, “must be based on the facts and the law and not the raw emotions that our country is currently experiencing. Justice for Mr. Nichols will not be achieved at the expense of justice for Mr. Mills.”

As a segment of the throng surged to him, attorney John Keith Perry, who represents Bean, said, “There should be justice for Tyre Nichols, absolutely. But I also stand by the fact that I am going to demand justice for Tadarrius Bean, calling him “nothing but a respectful, good young man. …

“And you look at the level involvement of each individual in that particular case, he was doing his job; no more, no less. He never struck anybody. He never did anything other than his job.”

That assertion would appear to have at least two holes.

Bean admitted to police investigators he punched Nichols two or three times in the face because officers weren’t able to handcuff Nichols. The admission was noted in a filing by the Memphis Police Department seeking to prohibit Bean

Fired Memphis Police Department officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith face Shelby County Criminal Court Judge James Jones Jr. in connection with the death of Tyre D. Nichols. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) from working in law enforcement again. The filing notes Bean’s actions were captured on video.

During a type of internal investigation that, for legal reasons, will likely never be seen by a jury, Bean admitted to throwing the punches. Bean also held Nichols by one of his arms while Nichols was pepper-sprayed, kicked, punched and beaten with a baton.

“I stand by the notion that right now due process in this matter has not taken place properly,” said Perry, asserting, “I’ve never seen people jump to conclusions about the isolated part of a two-minute excerpt about what was supposed to have happened on a particular night….

“I’ve never seen a person charged before anybody knows the cause of death. There is no definitive information regarding cause of death, at all.”

Casio Montez, who has been prominent among local activists protesting at the street level, peered toward Perry and said, “That man murdered that man, bro. … Stand on business, that s… was murder.”

Nichols, 29, was stopped for allegedly driving recklessly by members of the now-disbanded SCORPION unit. Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis has said she had not seen any evidence supporting that claim.

At a press conference held outside after Monday’s arraignment, Nichols’ stepfather, Rodney Wells, said he had to be there in pursuit of “justice for our son. … It’s a glorious day. It’s the beginning of the process.”

RowVaughn Wells said she felt numb.

“This nightmare … I am waiting for somebody to wake me up. …

But I also know that is not going to happen. I know my son is gone. I know I will never see him again. But we have to start this process.”

With rampant rumors on social media, Crump said, “We are relieved that they (the prosecutors’ office) have given information to try to dispel some of these rumors and innuendo that we keep being bombarded about, that somehow this (the beating of Nichols) was something personal. …

“The family is dealing with enough grieving the death of Tyre and their brave fight for justice than to have to deal with all these salacious rumors.”

It was a pattern seen before, said Crump, citing the George Floyd case as an example.

“All these rumors that are circulating are bogus and untrue….

What we want to stay laser-focused on is getting justice for Tyre Nichols and being able to define the legacy of Tyre Nichols….

“The SCORPION unit had a

pattern and practice of doing this to Black people in Memphis. That’s it.

You don’t need to go no further than that. …These special police units … they do this stuff in marginalized communities of color, where they tramp on the constitutional rights and human rights of Black and brown citizens. They don’t do that in the white communities to white citizens,” he said.

“That is why Tyre Nichols was killed. Because of this excessive force policing of Black citizens.”

Retired Shelby County Judge Earnestine Hunt Dorse, who along with Van Turner Jr., is part of the local arm of the family’s legal team, said, the next steps would not come “as swift as the indictment. But the indictment was the most important thing to get the wheels of just truly rolling. This is going to be a process and it’s not necessarily going to be held up by trying to slow the process.”

Dorse did not expect to see the case come to trial before the end of the year.

With an investigation ongoing by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, Crump said federal charges could emerge and take a parallel course to the state action.

“We know that in George Floyd’s tragic killing, those officers were

cials notified Shelby County officials of its intent to investigate conditions of confinement at the jail. On October 4-6 and December 11-13, 2000, DOJ officials toured the jail with consultants in penology, correctional health care, environmental health and safety, and mental health care.

On June 27 of the following year, the DOJ concluded that certain conditions in the jail violated detainees’ constitutional rights. The next month, federal attorneys met with county officials to begin negotiations on an agreement to address and remedy concerns.

Among the remedies was implementing “a system of warning flags that alert intake workers of specific indicators in the records of an inmate’s past incarceration” that required “immediate referral to medical staff before classification is completed or the inmate assigned to housing.”

Heart disease was included among the indicators.

The agreement also included a revision of use-of-force policies.

Included among those revisions was the requirement for “all security staff to attend annual in-service training on the use of force and de-escalation techniques.”

(Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell contributed to this story.) prosecuted within the year. The hope is that we have a blueprint … on all these tragedies.”

Turner, who also is president of the Memphis Branch NAACP, said, “This case is going to be a landmark decision but it also needs to lead to policy. How do we stop this from happening again? The state needs to pass the Tyre Nichols Police Reform Act. We need the governor to sign the bill. …We want the thoughts and prayers, but we want action. We want this bill passed right now.”

He also called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill filed in the state legislature to eliminate Civilian Law Enforcement Review Boards (CLERB) such as the one in Memphis.

“The Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board is the citizen’s eyes over law enforcement. Police can’t continue to police themselves,” Turner said. “If we are really serious about justice for Tyre, we want to make sure there is a swift prosecution and that these guys serve the time for what they did. And, we want to make sure there is swift action at the Tennessee Legislature.”

During a Q&A, Crump was asked about a sixth officer, Preston Hemphill, who has been fired but not charged for his role in what happened to Nichols.

“It is our hope that every officer who had anything to do with the death of her (RowVaughn Wells) son will be held accountable….,” Crump said.

Regarding civil litigation, Crump said while the legal team still is waiting for the completion of its ordered autopsy report, “We will be seeking full justice for Tyre Nichols.

That is criminal culpability, civil accountability, and as my co-counsel, Van Turner said policy.

“We want legislative action.

Because getting justice for Tyre is not about just having accountability of these officers. It’s about trying to prevent anybody else from being killed in this manner.”

(The story includes a report by the Associated Press.)

The New Tri-State Defender

February 23 - March 1, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 7

TELEVISION

Judge Mathis has a new TV home, but shouldn’t he just stop already?

News of “Judge Mathis” cancellation quickly followed by announcement of new series, “Mathis Court”

by Stephanie Holland theroot.com

D

espite the long reigns of shows like “Sesame Street,” “Law & Order: SVU” and “Survivor,” nothing lasts forever. Look no further than the once-thriving court show genre for this lesson.

According to Variety,, on Friday, Warner Bros. TV announced the cancellation of daytime staples “The People’s Court” and “Judge Mathis.” Running for 24 seasons, “Judge Mathis” was “the second longest-running court show in continued production with the same host.”

However, if you’re a fan of Greg Mathis, there’s no need to be sad, as he has already booked his next TV case. The judge is moving on to a new series, “Mathis Court,” which is set to premiere on Justice Central in fall 2023.

Per Variety, Mathis joins a court show lineup that includes “Justice with Judge Mablean”; “Supreme Justice with Judge Karen”; “The Verdict with Judge Hatchett”; “We the People with Judge Lauren Lake”; and the upcoming series “Equal Justice with Judge Eboni

K. Williams.” Mathis calls the schedule “the Motown of court programming” because it features “the best of the best.”

Here’s the thing: do we really need another Judge Mathis court show?

If we’re being honest, the format has become repetitive. Two people come in with a wildly ridiculous case, Judge Mathis makes a few one-liners as he hears the case, calls someone out on their illegal/unacceptable behavior, then he rules on the case.

In recent years, he’s become particularly fond of calling people crackheads. You know how your dad hears a joke and thinks it’s so hilarious he needs to tell it to everyone? That’s Greg Mathis with his crackhead lines. Yes, the show makes for a fun distraction during the day, but if it’s getting stale, perhaps it’s time to try something new?

I understand the show has a loyal audience, but everything ends eventually and that’s OK. Isn’t it better for the series to bow out while people still remember it fondly, rather than continuing on in a new version that doesn’t have the same impact?

No matter how close to the original the new show is, it’s still going to feel like a copy that doesn’t quite hit the same as the real version. Don’t believe me?

Has “American Idol” been the same since it returned on ABC? Does “House of the Dragon” have the same emotional punch as “Game of Thrones?”

Are you as invested in “Law & Order: Organized Crime” as you are in “SVU?” I don’t make the rules, that’s just how TV works sometimes.

“Judge Mathis” (Courtesy photo)

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, February 23 - March 1, 2023, Page 8

Community leaders call Whitehaven ‘safe’ after mass shooting of 13 victims

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

After a mass shooting that left one person dead and 12 injured early Sunday (Feb. 19) morning in Whitehaven, community leaders and residents are pushing against the narrative that Whitehaven is a high-crime area.

Those area advocates, people who live and work there, maintain Whitehaven still is one of the safest communities in Memphis.

Police said two men – Ladarious Marion and Julius Michael Freeman, both 21 – are charged in the incident.

Marion is charged with second-degree murder, five counts of attempted second-degree murder and five counts of employment of a weapon during a dangerous felony.

Freeman is charged with facilitation of second-degree murder,

five counts of attempted facilitation of second-degree murder and five counts of possession of a firearm to commit a dangerous felony.

The victims were discovered about 12:40 a.m., Memphis police responded to a shooting at Live Lounge on Shelby Drive, where two women were found in critical condition, police said.

Officers later found more victims at Shelby Drive and Boeingshire.

“We are a community of homeowners in Whitehaven,” said business owner Hazel Moore, often called the “mayor of Whitehaven.”

She continued, “The homes here are passed down and have been in the family for generations. Those people involved in the shooting were not Whitehaven residents. They just happened to be at an establishment in Whitehaven when the shooting happened.”

Pearl Walker, executive director of

I Love Whitehaven Neighborhood and Business Association, said “Of course, this is unfortunate. But there is so much more to Whitehaven than the shootings…There is a lot of community pride here. We just raised over $30,000 for a Christmas tree (in front of Southland Mall).”

Respect the Haven Jason Shariff concurred that “the people involved in that incident were not Whitehaven. This shooting spree is certainly not characteristic of the Whitehaven Community.

“I can’t recall an incident like that happening in Whitehaven ever, where that many people got shot at one time. Those people doing the shooting were not Whitehaven residents. They just happened to be at that establishment when some things happened.”

Walker said she regretted that the Whitehaven community might be

looked at negatively after the incident Walker added, “There is so much more to Whitehaven than these shootings … On March 1, we have a ribPearl bon-cutting for Walker the newly renovated Georgette and Cato Johnson YMCA. And new businesses are opening continuously.

“We are a safe, working-class community of mostly homeowners. That is Whitehaven. We are not the gun violence that made national news.”

Walker said the mass shooting could be the catalyst of an important conversation and appeal to lawmakers about state bills that could “dev-

Hazel Moore

Jason Shariff

astate our lives.”

“There are three bills in the state legislature that we need to express our concern about to our representatives: House Bill 1158 changes the permitless carry age from 21 years old down to 18 years old.

House Bill 120 would extend permitless carry from just handguns to shotguns and rifles as well.

House 192 would allow enhanced carry permit holders to possess guns in places where firearms are listed as prohibited.

“If these three bills are passed, then none of us should be surprised if more mass shootings begin to happen,” said Walker.

Community mural event salutes Tyre Nichols, his parents in North Memphis Special to The New Tri-State Defender The Tyre Nichols Wall Mural now adorns an outside side wall of Steve A’s The Castle Home of Rhythm & Blues at 2356 Jackson Avenue in North Memphis.

The two-piece mural, created by graphic designers and artists David Yancy III, owner of DY3Art, and Francisco Flores, owner of Mala Leche Design, was revealed at an event last Saturday (Feb. 18).

With Nichols’ parents, RowVaughn Wells and Rodney Wells, in attendance, the salute to Nichols and the Wellses also included a candlelight vigil, free food, games and T-shirts.

The community-level tribute was organized by Crystal Harris Otiende of 2Much Talent and Marek Ransom, the son of Steve Adams, who owns Steve A’s The Castle Home of Rhythm & Blues.

It was an upbeat affair rooted in the ongoing appeal for “justice for Tyre.”

Representatives of the Hollywood

David Yancy III and Francisco Flores at work on the Tyre Nichols Wall Mural.

Neighborhood addressed community concerns in the historic neighborhood that now includes the salute to Nichols.

Work on The Tyre Nichols Wall Mural began on Feb. 10. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/ The New Tri-State Defender)

RowVaughn Wells and Rodney Wells were on hand for the unveiling of The Tyre Nichols Wall Mural at Steve A’s The Castle Home of Rhythm & Blues at 2356 Jackson Avenue.

U of M, Bank of America launch Career Fellows Program for African American students TSD Newsroom The Fogelman College of Business and Economics, in partnership with Bank of America, has launched the FCBE Career Fellows Program to engage, educate and effectively prepare African American business students for professional success.

The partnership is described as a demonstration of Bank of America’s and the University of Memphis’ commitment to driving opportunities for people and communities of color.

The inaugural cohort of FCBE Careers Fellows include rising junior business students: Ashanti Crowder, Isaiah Capps, Chanise Thompson and Aaron Wallace.

Over a two-year period, the FCBE Career Fellows Program will provide professional development opportuni-

ties, job shadowing, resume and interview workshops, internships and career opportunities, and more.

A recent study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers showed that the number of internships completed and a student’s GPA are the major predictors of initial career outcomes.

Graduates with more internships and graduates with higher GPAs had higher odds of being employed relative to seeking employment six months after graduation.

Through this partnership with Bank of America, the University of Memphis hopes to develop an innovative and strong pipeline of African American graduates. College graduation is significant to economic mobility, and the purpose of this program is to eliminate the

graduation gap.

“Career opportunities are a critical pillar in addressing the racial equality gap in our country,” said Trevia Chatman, president, Bank of America Memphis.

“In partnership with the UofM, the FCBE Career Fellows Program is designed to further equip Black/African American undergraduate business students with career development support and guidance to help ensure their success and position them for career advancement.”

College and career readiness are more vital now than ever,” said Marja Martin-Carruth, director of the Avron B. Fogelman Center for Complete Professional Development.

“With a strategic approach, we will work closely with Bank of America and the FCBE Career Fellows to cre-

Pictured front row (l-r): Isaiah Capps, Chanise Thompson, Ashanti Crowder, Aaron Wallace; back row (l-r): Marja Martin-Carruth, director, Avron B. Fogelman Center for Professional Career Development; Bonita Terry-Malone, senior director, Corporate Foundation Relations, University of Memphis; Trevia Chatman, president, Bank of America, Memphis; Dr. Gregory W. Boller, interim dean, Fogelman College of Business & Economics, University of Memphis. (Courtesy photo) ate customized professional development plans in hopes of bridging the gap between classroom knowledge

and career readiness by providing resources necessary for student success in today’s ever-changing job market.”

The New Tri-State Defender

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2012 Terrain SLE Vin number 2GKALMEKXC6177992 Contact 901-219-8766 Shelby Truck and Trailer Repair is located at 500 Winchester Rd, Memphis TN. 38116. We are placing a notice with the intent to collect an overdue repair and storage bill. There is a 2001 black FreightLiner Century class truck that has a repair bill and storage fee due of $6,500. $1500 dollars to repair a bull gear and $5000 dollars in storage fee beginning on January 19, 2020. The vehicle was dropped off by a tow truck and the owner of the vehicle is Wayne W. Willis. The Vin number is 1FUJA3CG41PF24073. If the bill is not paid in full by March 17, 2023, we intend to auction the truck off by April 7, 2023. We can be reached at 901-506-6696 and ask for Leroy Washington.

ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE OPPORTUNITIES The Memphis Electrical JATC is accepting applications for their electrical apprenticeship program on Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at, 6211 Shelby Oaks Drive, Call 901.386.2301 or 1.877.263.5282 outside Shelby County for more information.

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000791, Purchase of Mobile Surveillance Trailers for SCSO Homeland Security-Grant Funded (Sheriff’s Office). 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 abovedescribed Sealed Bid. SEALED BID-I000791 DUE DATE WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2023 AT 2:30 PM CDT (SB-I000791), Purchase of Mobile Surveillance Trailers for SCSO Homeland Security-Grant Funded (Sheriff’s Office) 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: Didlun Invest LLC Tax Parcel #: 05001500000250 Tax Sale #: 1301 Price Offered: $1,350.00 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 22, 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

February 23 - March 1, 2023

Page 9

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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: Ronald Stepter Tax Parcel #: 07106000000240 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $5,000.00 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 22, 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: Bryan Smith Tax Parcel #: 06102600000230 Tax Sale #: 1801 Price Offered: $3,000.00 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 22, 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: Tommy Williams Tax Parcel #: 03508200000040 Tax Sale #: 1703

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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: Benjamin Rhodes Tax Parcel #: 0350800000024C Tax Sale #: 1703 Price Offered: $29,100.00 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 9:00 a.m. on March 21, 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.

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The New Tri-State Defender, February 23 - March 1, 2023, Page 10

BTW earns district crown with patience, persistence

by Andre Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Last Saturday night at Middle College High School the Booker T. Washington “Warriors” boys’ basketball team earned its’ first district championship title, since 2020.

Winning is nothing new to a school that has produced some of the state’s best student-athletes. There has been a plethora of top-notch performers, especially on the hardwood.

What makes this latest feat so impressive is that the school has experienced more than a fair share of depletions and major distractions as it has attempted to re-establish itself as an institution of high standard post COVID-19 pandemic. Numerous city officials, superintendents, princi-

pals, educators, business leaders, professional athletes, etc., have walked the hallowed halls of B.T.W. For the sake of time, (although it is Black History Month) I digress and divert my focus on this year’s boys’ basketball squad.

The basketball program, under the leadership of B.T.W. alum, Antonio Harris, has experienced more than a few memorable seasons since he took over for legendary Coach Fred Horton in 2014. Coach Harris has led the program to several league and district titles, including county, regional, sectional, championships and a state runner-up finish in 2016.

Four seasons ago, the program was ranked #1 in the state of Tennessee and on its’ way to the state tourney as the over-all favorite. Unfortunate-

ly, the golden quest for the school’s first state championship since 2001 was derailed as the tournament was eventually cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The entire 2020-21 season was cancelled for B.T.W., due to COVID. The following year saw the team ousted in the first round of the district play-offs.

B.T.W. started off this season slow and currently has more losses than wins yet, with a record of 9-14, has gained momentum at the right time to surprise their competition and win its’ district 15-A championship.

B.T.W. defeated league rivals Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering and Middle College in the district tourney, after losing by double digits to both teams during the

BTW’s Warriors overcame a slow start to the season and won its district championship with a below .500 winning percentage.

(Courtesy photo) regular season.

As the third seed, B.T.W. achieved the nearly impossible feat by remaining focused and gradually adhering to the principles of their head coach.

Coach Harris stands as the epitome of discipline, respect, patience and persistence which has help set the tone for his current team as they head into the TSSAA regional tournament play this coming Saturday as

the top seed.

Coach Harris continues to emphasize to his young men to trust in the process and believe in yourself and your teammates. Consistently do the fundamental things right and good things will eventually happen for you, in basketball and in life.

Heads up, thanks to patience and persistence, B.T.W. is back on top, where they lead and others follow!

Morant and Jackson meet the press as All-Stars

By Terry Davis

Special to the New Tri-State Defender

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — As the NBA held its All-Star Media Day on Saturday, it was audibly apparent that Memphis’ Ja Morant has carved out his place among the league’s biggest stars. The Grizzlies’ charismatic point guard generated one of the loudest rounds of cheers when introduced as a Western Conference AllStars during the open practice.

The first player interviewed

by TNT’s Dennis Scott after the introductions, Morant, who is making his second straight All-Star Terry appearance, Davis drew one of the larger congregations of media to his platform during the post-practice interview sessions.

Media reps – national and international – wanted to know all sorts of things about Moran and his rise to stardom.

Who would he want for entertainment?

Michael Jackson, Chris Brown and Beyoncé, Morant said.

His favorite three rappers?

YoungBoy, Lil Baby and Moneybagg Yo. If he was on a desert island, which teammate would he want?

“Steven Adams. I want everybody to know he is my bodyguard.

And, of course, a question about his signature shoe, Nike Ja 1. Which color did he like best?

The black. “Those joints be flooded up,” said, who was very noticeably studded with diamonds Introduced for All-Star Weekend, the black-colored signature shoe was available to those in attendance as long as the supply lasted. It will be available to the public in April, just in time for the playoffs.

When did he know (teammate) Jaren (Jackson Jr.) would be an All-Star?

“From the jump,” said Morant.

“Once I got drafted, I had to do my research. I knew he would be here.”

There was a question about the young male giraffe – named with Ja Morant in mind – that the Memphis Zoo shipped to the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City, coincidentally just ahead of the 2022 NBA Draft.

Did he leave tickets for Ja Raffe?

“I didn’t have to. He will just come in. He is going to kick the door down.”

His favorite NBA memory?

Ja Morant, an All-Star starter, and Jaren Jackson Jr., who made his first All-Star team, talk it up. The duo rejoined the Grizzlies on Tuesday (Feb.21) for a team practice before Memphis left for Philadelphia to play the 76ers on Wednesday. (Photo: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

In 10 minutes for Team Jason during the Jordan Rising Stars Challenge, Kenny Lofton Jr. of the Memphis Hustle scored seven points, along with four rebounds, a steal and a block. (Photo: Terry Davis, The New Tri-State Defender)

Originally selected as a reserve, Ja Morant was upgraded to a starter as a replacement for the injured Stephen Curry.

Jaren Jackson Jr. enters his first NBA All-Star game. Said Jackson, “I was nervous for about two minutes. When I got into the game it was like, this is it. We are out here doing whatever.”

Scoring 52 points (against the Spurs on March 1, 2022).

Morant and Jackson were near each other for their interview sessions, with Morant flowing some shoutouts to his first-time All-Star teammate.

Jackson, who has developed a rep as one of the better-dressed players in the league, took in the All-Star vibes,

Keeping an eye on Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. and the rest of the All-Stars was referee Mike Smith, who got his start calling high schools games in Memphis. Smith has been an official in the NBA for 28-plus years and has called over 1,500 NBA games. clearly relishing the opportunity to display one of many All-Star weekend outfits.

Asked about his favorite NBA moment, Jackson said it was his father winning the NBA title with the Spurs in 1999. Jackson was born September 15th of that year.

Voted a vice president of the NBA Players Association, Jackson will serve a three-year term.

“I’ve seen a lot of things being in the league. I’ve seen a lot of vets come through. I think I know what the youth is thinking, and getting them to meetings.”

As for the feeling of being part of the All-Star game, Jackson said, “The most important thing about this whole thing is bringing your people out and bringing your family out … so you’ve got the memories. I’ve got all my boys here and we’re just moving.

“Then my mom and my dad. It’s great. It’s something you really can’t put into words. But the main thing is just having your family around you and (people) that you love.”

Lofton rises up to meet All-Star Weekend challenge SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The latest in a line of Memphis Grizzlies to play in the NBA’s Jordan Rising Stars Challenge during the All-Star Break, Kenny Lofton Jr. embraced it as another opportunity.

“It was good to play in the game and have some fun,” said Lofton, who played for Team Jason (coached by retired NBA veteran Jason Terry) in the game Friday night.

Lofton, who has been honing his skills this season with the Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies’ G-League affiliate, got a chance to show his touch inside the paint and outside the three-point arc.

His first basket was a three-pointer from the top of the key. Later, he flashed his ball-handling skills in a drive for a layup.

In 10 minutes for Team Jason, which fell 40-32, Lofton scored seven points, along with four rebounds, a steal and a block.

Lofton was a member of the team

that represented the G-League, which he has been storming through – 20.6 points, 10.4 rebounds – as the Grizzlies allow him to get the minutes he needs to develop on that level. Among the lessons learned, he said, is to “stay focused.”

“You can look back to the past and dwell off that. I keep my head focused and continue to be better.”

Undrafted coming out of Louisiana Tech, Lofton, a 6’7’ and 270-plus forward, needs only look at Santi Aldama for an example of how to build upon the G-League experience. Aldama has developed into a solid role player for the Grizzlies this season.

The reward for staying the course could be an elevation from a twoway contract to a fully guaranteed one next year.

Lofton’s All-Star Game Weekend schedule also included the NBA G-League Next Up game on Sunday.