The New Tri-State Defender - June 22-28, 2023

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June 22 - 28, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 25

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University of Memphis coach Penny Hardaway talks to fans at a Memphis Tigers Block Party. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)

Memphis Branch NAACP President Van Turner Jr. presents RowVaughn Wells, mother of Tyre Nichols, with the Ida B. Wells Courage Award. Also pictured: NAACP Executive Director Vickie Hayes-Terry.

Don Lemon delivers at Memphis Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Celebration

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Former CNN news anchor Don Lemon spoke candidly about his firing from the 24-hour news network to an attentive audience at the Memphis Branch NAACP’s Freedom Fund Celebration on Saturday (June 17).

The 57-year-old Lemon, who joined CNN in 2006, was reflective about processing his termination and taking a lesson from it.

“Sometimes, when people think they are firing you, they are actually lighting a fire under you,” Lemon told a cheering audience.

Lemon was the keynote speaker at the local civil rights organization’s major fundraiser. The event was held at Downtown’s Halloran Centre For Performing Arts and Education.

Beyond Lemon’s address, the event included the presentation of awards to individuals who have ad-

vocated for social justice or strongly supported the local branch.

Among the honored individuals was RowVaughn Wells, mother of Tyre Nichols, who was given the “Ida B. Wells Courage Award.”

Nichols was fatally bludgeoned

by Memphis police officers near his Hickory Hills home on the night of Jan. 7. He died from his injuries Jan. 10. Five MPD officer, who were part of a special crime suppression unit, have been charged with second-degree murder and other serious felonies in connection with Nichol’s death.

On April 24, Lemon announced he had been from the network in a tweet reading, “I was informed this morning by my agent I have been terminated by CNN. I am stunned.”

Lemon continued, “After 17 years at CNN I would have thought that someone in management would have had the decency to tell me directly. At no time was I ever given

SEE NAACP ON PAGE 2

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

On Tennessee 222, between the Stanton, Tennessee business district and Interstate 40, rising steel girders portend a probable monumental change for this rural Haywood County village of about 500 residents on U.S. 70-79 about 50 miles

northeast of Memphis.

The girders eventually will be the home of Ford Motor Company’s BlueOval City, the automaker’s $5.6 billion looking-toward-the-future plant that will produce all-new electric trucks and the batteries to power them.

The surrounding Black farmers and landowners want to be able to benefit from the economic develop-

Associated Press

tist Church, 280 Fredonia Road, in Stanton.

Thomas “Ford Motor Burrell Company is presenting an incredible opportunity,” said Black Farmers and Agriculturalists Association (BFAA) President Thomas Burrell. “In the 20th cen-

SEE FARMERS ON PAGE 2

SEE PENNY ON PAGE 2

“Sometimes, when people think they are firing you, they are actually lighting a fire under you,” former CNN news anchor Don Lemon told a cheering audience. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

ment opportunities that sprout from BlueOval City while also protecting farmland their families have owned for generations.

Members of these stakeholders will hold a press event Monday (June 26) to announce strategies for collaborating with the BlueOval City project.

The announcement is scheduled for 11 a.m., at Greater Fredonia Bap-

by Aaron Beard An NCAA infractions panel handed a three-game suspension to Memphis coach Penny Hardaway on Wednesday for recruiting violations tied to two in-home visits with a prospect two years ago.

The penalty follows a negotiated resolution in December that allowed the school to resolve the case and begin probation while one individual challenged the allegations. That turned out to be Hardaway, the former Memphis and NBA star who was charged under rules governing headcoach responsibility for conduct within their programs.

An assistant coach first visited the prospect in September 2021 at his home, followed by Hardaway roughly two weeks later. But NCAA rules prohibited in-home visits for juniors except for April of that year, with those visits supposed to take place at the prospect’s current school. Both visits lasted roughly 15 minutes.

Hardaway had told the NCAA he was unaware of the rule. He will now miss the first three games of the 202324 season that starts in November.

“Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse,” the panel said. “The head coach’s inattentiveness to compliance — particularly at a time when his program was under scrutiny related to a different infractions case — resulted in careless violations.”

To that point, the school had been dealing with a separate NCAA probe from 2019 tied to the recruitment and short college stay of one-anddone center James Wiseman. That case ultimately led to the NCAA — through its newly formed Independent Accountability Resolution Process — punishing Memphis with three years of probation, a public reprimand and a fine but without a postseason ban.

In a statement, Memphis said school officials “strongly believe Coach Hardaway never intentionally

Black farmers group plowing new ground for BlueOval City benefits

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

NCAA hits Penny Hardaway with 3-game penalty over recruiting

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The New Tri-State Defender

FARMERS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT tury, we left the cotton fields to go up north to work for the automobile industry. Now, the industry is coming here to the cotton fields.

“We need to get our house in order and be ready to get some of those contracts.”

Burrell said 75 farmers, landowners, and community leaders will advocate for cooperative actions to create generational wealth.

“These men and women own thousands of acres of land where the BlueOval City project is being constructed,” said Burrell. “We envision joining forces to create wealth that will be passed down through our generations. We are seeking to incorporate and establish a more powerful position of economic development.”

Rather than individual landowners selling land by the acre, Burrell is advocating for a partnership with BlueOval City to have hotels, apartment buildings, warehouses, green spaces, and office buildings to be built on land where owners have retained ownership.

Burrell did not specify any area or parameters he is looking to incorporate.

Black landowners, however, have expressed concern about the Tennessee Department of Transportation’s plan to take some of their land through eminent domain.

TDOT plans to build a new highway through rural Fayette, Tipton and Haywood counties in a project that also includes a new Exit 39 interchange on Interstate 40 as part of 13.7 miles in roadway improvements.

Steven Reid of BlueOval City Communications said he was unaware of the press conference, but expressed Ford’s intention to be a good, corporate citizen in serving the communities surrounding the project.

Ford issued a statement ahead of Monday’s meeting, which read: “Ford is committed to being a good neighbor and adding to the prosperity and quality of life in every community where we do business, including in West Tennessee.

“We have encouraged the Tennessee Department of Transportation, which is responsible for public road maintenance and development – including eminent domain scenarios – to meet with impacted property owners and local community groups to quickly reach an equitable resolution.”

The city of Mason is near BlueOval City. One city leader said there are only a few “Black farmers” still in the town. If they are participating in Burrell’s initiative, it will be on an individual basis.

“Thomas Burrell came to Mason to run for mayor when

PENNY

CONTINUED FROM FRONT committed a violation.”

“We will learn from this incident and be even more diligent in our education and monitoring,” the school said.

“Now that the entirety of this case is finalized, we will move forward in support of Coach Hardaway and our men’s basketball program, as we do all our programs.”

Hardaway was hired before the 2018-19 season and has led the Tigers to five consecutive 20-win seasons (110-52 overall), the 2021 NIT title, the 2023 American Athletic Conference Tournament championship and two straight trips to the NCAA Tournament.

(Follow Aaron Beard on Twitter at http://www.twitter. com/aaronbeardap.)

he wasn’t a resident last year,” said Alderwoman Virginia Rivers. “The city of Mason is not connected with Mr. Burrell’s plans, nor do we anticipate becoming involved.”

BlueOval City is expected to employ about 6,000 workers.

That kind of localized labor force usually attracts interest from potential national or regional retailers, fast food establishments and businesses. For a city that has lost nearly 32 percent of its population since 2000, according to Census figures, the expected growth could be a blessing and a curse as village ambience meets tremendous growth.

Burrell said the collaborative strategy to “incorporate” is a crucial one.

“Many of the Black farmers have possessed their land for five or six generations,” Burrell said. There is a need for a paradigm shift. It is time for a more equitable solution to bringing inclusion and better opportunities from this $5.6 billion project.

BFAA boasts a membership of more than 20,000. The organization is a Memphis-based, nonprofit, established by Burrell in 1997.

In 1981, a series of protests and sit-ins drew attention to discriminatory practices against African-American farmers by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The organization’s activism has won millions of dollars in restitution for BFAA members over the years.

June 22 - 28, 2023

Page 2

NEWS

NAACP

CONTINUED FROM FRONT any indication that I would not be able to continue to do the work I have loved at the network. It is clear that there are some larger issues at play.”

CNN countered Lemon’s account, saying in a statement that he was “offered an opportunity to meet with management but instead released a statement on Twitter.”

Memphis Branch NAACP President Van Turner Jr., who is a candidate for Memphis mayor, called Lemon’s address “thought-provoking and insightful…

“He talked about his love for Memphis and how he had officially adopted Memphis as his second home. We all left Saturday evening with the sense that the best is yet to come for Mr. Lemon in his future endeavors,” Turner said.

Turner explained Lemon was sought as this year’s speaker, not only for his star power, but also the inspiring message of hope when life throws a curve ball. “He did not disappoint,” Turner said.

NAACP Executive Director Vickie Hayes-Terry met Lemon when he came to Memphis to cover the Tyre Nichols case.

“He was just so kind and genuine and personable. I knew our Freedom Fund Celebration was coming up, and I

Memphis Branch NAACP President Van Turner Jr. acknowledges the 2023 Freedom Fund Gala co-chairs, philanthropist and entrepreneur Tommy Fan and Mark Yates, TVA’s West Region vice president. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender) asked him if he could be our keynote speaker. He told me, ‘Yes, of course.’ After he was no longer with CNN, I told him we wanted him, not someone from CNN.” Others lauded during Saturdays event were: • Velma Lois Jones: Velma

Lois Jones Trailblazer Award.

• Tyronne Burroughs: Robert R. Church Philanthropy Award.

• Tomeka and Russell Wigginton: Vasco and Maxine Smith Team Advocate Award.

• Dr. J. Lawrence Turner: Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks Clergy

Award.

• Posthumously awarded were: • Floyd Tyler: Jesse Turner Sr. Financial Services Award.

• State Rep. Barbara Cooper: Johnnie R. Turner Public Service Award (posthumously).

The New Tri-State Defender

June 22 - 28, 2023

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Page 3

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, June 22 - 28, 2023, Page 4

BLACK MUSIC MONTH Part 3:

Mining for community-based music resources

by Candace A. Gray

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

In a music-rich state like Tennessee, it’s mind-boggling that government resources for music and other arts programs have been slashed in recent years by state lawmakers.

This is in keeping with a nationwide trend, resulting from education funding cuts that have put more focus on common-core curricula, while lessening the priority for the arts.

However, in a report by Public School Review, as one might imagine, it was determined that students who study music have increased achievement and proficiency in math, among other academic and behavRychetta ioral benefits.

Watkins The Memphis Music Initiative (MMI), a nonprofit organization that invests in youth through transformative music engagement and creating equitable opportunities for Black and brown youth in Memphis, has made it the organization’s business to keep Memphis music, and associated careers, alive.

“The disinvestment in the arts in our schools, especially in Memphis, is a tragedy,” said Dr. Rychetta Watkins, MMI director of grantmaking and partnerships.

Watkins added, “Art, creativity music, they have such a positive impact on child development, giving young people an outlet for their imagination, helping develop skills, knowledge, thinking, discipline, working as part of a team, self-confidence; people aren’t taking into account the underlying impacts arts have on these areas.”

Since 2016, MMI has operated three programs: • In-school, in which MMI it hires music professionals (MMI Fellows) to equitably expand in-school music education.

• MMI Works, a paid summer internship program for upper classmen and recent graduates to bridge the gap from learning to music careers.

• Grant-making and capacity building that enables grass-roots community organizations, which already provide music resources, to improve their service offerings and promote program sustainability.

Last year, MMI employed 16 fellows, who worked in 31 schools, 21 interns, who created business plans and competed for cash prizes, and granted $1 million to 17 grantees, which impacted nearly 3,000 youth in Memphis.

“Across all programs, young people have positive outcomes,” said Watkins.

“They’re seeing themselves as creatives, continuing to sing, play, make art … (and) connect with us.

“Many of them come back and volunteer or mentor, wanting to be part of the crew that helps the next set of young people be successful.”

Memphis native Timothy Walker, 24, now a music teacher at John P. Freeman Middle School, jazz band leader and recording artist, participated in MMI Works after graduating from Central High School. He believes in MMI’s mission and mentorship.

“I interned at Memphis Slim House and learned so much about production, writing a business plan, and giving back,” said Walker. “After my internship that summer, I would go back as an alumni see how I can help and tell the new students about the program and how it worked for me.”

Walker, whose stage name is “Tim Walk-

MMI program participants showing their talent.

Timothy Walker with music students.

MMI grantees at wellness retreat. er,” started playing drums in sixth grade, but never really thought he would pursue a career in music.

“I was really into art and drawing. I honestly thought I’d be an architect,” said Walker. “But music was always around me; my whole family is musical.”

Walker started making beats on his iPad, and sang in the choir in high school, but credits MMI and other organizations, like Lite Memphis, for giving him the blueprints, budgeting skills and confidence he needed to really pursue a career in music.

“When I was at Jackson State University (JSU), I also participated in the Sony Music College Marketing Program. Through that I learned another aspect of music – marketing. I got to see what artists do behind the scenes and what other people do for artists, which was beneficial for me,” said Walker.

Walker earned his degree in Music Technology from JSU and is putting all his skills and training to use. He has just released two singles, “Can’t Keep Chasin’” and “Trip,” both of which are racking up steady streams on Apple music.

“I’m proud of myself. I never saw myself doing this at first. It just kind of came and I’m excited to see where it goes from

Timothy Walker here,” said Walker.

MMI’s Watkins said, “We do our work through the lens of creative liberation, leveraging music, art and creativity to provide young people greater freedom; to use their imaginations, exercise their talents to build

a fulfilling, enriching life of their choosing – that is the ultimate freedom,” said Watkins.

Walker’s middle school jazz band from John P. Freeman will perform next week for the Zeta Phi Beta conference at the Renasant Convention Center.

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The New Tri-State Defender

June 22 - 28, 2023

RELIGION

Page 5

The importance of religion in the lives of Americans is shrinking

by Jason DeRose NPR.org

The importance of religion in the lives of Americans is on the decline.

However, for people who do still attend religious services, they say they’re optimistic about the future of their house of worship. Those are among the findings of a new report from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI).

Just 16 percent of Americans surveyed said religion is the most important thing in their lives, according to the PRRI study, down from 20 percent a decade ago.

Melissa Deckman, CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute, says that this data reflects another trend in American religious life. “Americans,” she says, “are becoming increasingly likely to become religiously unaffiliated.”

For Catholics and mainline Protestants, the importance of religion has declined somewhat in the last decade, according to Deckman. The drop isn’t as steep, though, once broken down by other demographics. For example, 38 percent of Black Protestants and 42 percent of white evangelical Protestants say religion is most important.

Deckman isn’t surprised that religious salience is highest among those groups. “But certainly it’s less than 50 percent,” she says. “And

that’s a change from perhaps earlier decades of findings.”

The report, titled “Religion and Congregations in a Time of Social and Political Upheaval,” surveyed more than 6,600 adults from all 50 states. Despite the deep political divides in the U.S., the majority of churchgoers – 56 percent – do not believe their own church is more politically divided than five years ago.

Deckman says that this could be due to sorting that has already taken place: People tend to affiliate with congregations that align with their political beliefs, in part to avoid conflicts they experience in broader society.

The research also shows that Black Protestants are the only Christian group in which a majority – 63 percent – believes that congregations should get involved in social issues even if doing so means having difficult conversations.

Deckman says that this comparatively higher percentage is likely due to the historic connection between Black churches and the Civil Rights Movement. “And so,” she says, “Black churches are more open to having these conversations in their pews.”

Deckman credits the racial justice movement over the last several years as fortifying the resolve of some congregations to preach, “Black Lives Matter,” even if it upsets some people.

That message has long been heard from pulpits in many predominantly Black congregations.

Stevie Moore, president and founder of Freedom From Unnecessary Negatives (FFUN)/ “Stop the Killing” talks with James E. Kirkwood. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

An old wooden cross frames St. Paul Baptist Church and its cemetery in Bermuda, La. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender) PRRI found that Christian congregations are still largely racially segregated. Even though the U.S. as a whole is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse, the vast majority of Christian churchgoers report that their congregations are “mostly monoracial.” Eighty percent of white mainline Protestants, such as Episcopalians and Presbyterians, say their churches are mostly white. The same is true for 77 percent of white Catholics and 75 percent of white evangelical Protestants.

The research also found that religious Americans are on the move.

Twenty-four percent of respondents said they previously followed a different faith tradition from the one they practice now, mostly leaving Christianity or religion altogether. That figure is up significantly from just a couple of years ago.

In 2021, only 16 percent said they had changed religions.

Among those who’ve left a religion, more than one-third say they were formerly Catholic.

Participation in houses of worship continues to decline, according to the study. Twenty-eight percent of respondents said they “seldom” attend religious services, and 29 percent of respondents said they “never” attend religious services. A decade ago, those figures were 22 percent and 21 percent, respectively.

The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have influenced a larger trend. In 2019, 19 pecent of Americans said they attended a religious service once a week. That percentage has now dropped to 16 percent attending weekly and 13 percent saying they attend “a few times a year.”

Yet despite the downward trends in overall church attendance, PRRI found that those still going are happy. Eight-two percent say they’re optimistic about the future of their church.

Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis and Memphis Police Department veteran James Earl Kirkwood joined host Pastor Melvin Watkins at The Fatherhood Walk.

In the spirit of fatherhood ...

AFIRM (A Father’s Involvement Really Matters) and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood, 620 Parkrose Ave., presented The Fatherhood Walk For Fathers and Families on Father’s Day (June 17).

The New Tri-State Defender

June 22 - 28, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 6

At the 65th Grammy Awards, Dr. Dre acknowledged 50 years of hip hop and traced his roots. (Screen capture)

Just in time for Hip-Hop 50, Dr. Dre receives 1st of its kind ASCAP Award

by Shanelle Genai theroot.com

Hip-Hop icon Dr. Dre is having one helluva year when it comes to special awards and recognition. And with this latest news, it appears that streak won;t be stopping anytime soon.

On Tuesday, it was announced that “The Next Episode” rapper would receive the first-ever Hip-Hop Icon Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP). The honor is given to those “whose musical contributions have made an indelible impact on the art and culture of hip-hop,” per the AP. The celebration is set to go down in Los Angeles on Thursday at the org’s Rhythm & Soul Music Awards Celebration of 50 Years of HipHop. DJ Drama and DJ Kid Capri are set to provide the musical entertainment for the night.

“Dr. Dre’s groundbreaking early work laid a foundation for hip hop as we know it today,” said Paul Williams, chairman of the board and president at ASCAP, in a statement. “As a champion for some of today’s biggest artists and a successful entrepreneur, he changed the culture around hip hop.”

This marks the second major award for “The Chronic” rapper on the last several months. As previously reported by The Root, back in February, Dre made history at the 65th annual Grammys by being the first ever recipient of the Global Impact Award. And not only was he the first recipient—he got the award named after him as well.

Additionally, this year also marks the 30th anniversary of his iconic album, “The Chronic,” which means the celebration for this hip-hop legend probably won’t be letting up any time soon.

The Tennessee State University Meistersingers – TSU’s premiere choral group – at Carnegie Hall in New York City Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Angelica Dunsavage, (Courtesy photo)

Tennessee State University Choral Group performs at Carnegie Hall!

TSU News Service NASHVILLE – The Tennessee State University Meistersingers – TSU’s premiere choral group – added to its lore with a recent performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The June 2nd performance followed a successful $20,000 fundraising campaign.

“Carnegie Hall is a grand place,” said Mayson Harris, a rising senior studying music at TSU. “To actually perform there, the acoustics were amazing. I could hear all the voices blending together. I can’t wait to see what our choir does next,” the baritone singer said.

Eight TSU Meistersingers traveled to NYC to premiere a new musical piece alongside students from other universities. Out of more than 80 singers from various colleges and community choruses, TSU was the only HBCU to be a part of the 30-minute performance at Carnegie Hall.

“Having more Black voices in Carnegie

Hall, especially from HBCUs, will always have a big impact,” said Harris from Nashville. “If one can do it, we can take it a step further and have all HBCUs at Carnegie Hall.”

Accompanying the TSU Meistersingers during their performance was Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Angelica Dunsavage, who pointed to praise from Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), an organization that collaborated with the singers.

“They (DCINY) were really impressed by our students,” said Dunsavage, noting that TSU’s students were commended for their preparation and professionalism and received an invitation to return for any future opportunities.

The students showcased a musical piece titled “Where We Find Ourselves,” inspired by a series of photographs taken during the Jim Crow era in North Carolina. The Carnegie Hall premiere was composed by Michael Bussewitz-Quarm.

Dunsavage emphasized that exposure at this level is crucial for the TSU Meistersingers.

“It means a lot to our students to start building travel up and getting more of a national reputation for the choral program.”

The performance also held great significance for TSU student Link Fisher III. “Sharing a stage that all these greats have shared, it was a moment to thank God for allowing me to be here,” Fisher said, recalling two of his favorite vocalists, Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald.

“All these opportunities keep presenting themselves. You take them and you learn from them.” Fisher, a senior studying performing arts and French, said his post-graduation plans involve “living life to the fullest.” He plans to attend graduate school in Paris to pursue a career in conducting music and opera singing.

(For more information about TSU Meistersingers, visit www.tnstate.edu/music/meistersingers.)

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, June 22 - 28, 2023, Page 7

What an MSCS audit found after a former board member alleged ‘corruption’

by Laura Testino Chalkbeat Tennessee

Memphis-Shelby County Schools paid a lawn care vendor more than its contract allowed, lost some lawn equipment to theft, and paid an employee for days they didn’t work.

The lapses surfaced in a regular independent financial audit of the district for the 2021-22 school year and were detailed in a report shared with state officials in January. The findings prompted personnel changes and a reorganization of the district’s procurement department, a Chalkbeat review of public records shows.

Interim Superintendent Toni Williams announced some of those changes last fall, soon after she was appointed to take the place of Joris Ray, who resigned as superintendent under a cloud of scandal. The actions drew praise from board members and community advocates as a fresh sign of accountability from the new district leader.

But Williams’ decision to pursue the permanent superintendent post, after promising not to, has roiled the search for Ray’s successor, and sparked new scrutiny of the way the district does business.

When school board Vice Chair Sheleah Harris resigned unexpectedly from her post last week, she called for a district audit “going back at least 5 years” to root out what she claimed was widespread corruption. She cited conflicts of interest in contract awards and misuse of philanthropic funds.

Such allegations are not new, and the district has repeatedly faced calls for audits from critics of its leadership and financial management,

even though the district’s finances are audited regularly. In the case of Harris’ allegations, some of the issues she raised appear to mirror the ones addressed by the most recent audit.

The personnel and procurement changes Williams made “are part of ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and transparency,” the district said in a statement responding to Harris’ sweeping allegations.

The latest independent audit, by accounting firms Watkins Uiberall PLLC and Banks, Finley, White, & Co., spanned the period from July 2021 to June 2022. During that period, Williams was the district’s chief financial officer under Ray. More audit findings about the district may be forthcoming. In addition to the changes Williams announced last fall, district officials hired an auditor to look into potential fraud or noncompliance in managing its $775 million in federal pandemic relief funds, records show. The district did not respond to requests for an update on the status of that audit.

Lawn service contract drew scrutiny from auditors After her resignation Tuesday, Harris directed reporters to probe her claims, but she declined Chalkbeat’s request for documents supporting her allegations, and wrote that she would not answer further questions.

In her statements following her resignation, Harris suggested there were irregularities with vendor contracts that were worth less than $100,000 — a threshold that requires board approval — saying some were “direct conflicts.”

The district has spent this school

year correcting issues related to that policy and strengthening controls, records show.

During the 2021-22 school year, Isaac Wright, an employee who oversaw the district’s grounds and cleaning services, approved payments to a lawn company beyond allowances in the contract. Those payments exceeded the $100,000 threshold, meaning they would normally have warranted a board vote. Details are reflected in the audit report the district regularly files to the state, plus internal audit documents obtained by Chalkbeat through a public records request.

The lawn company submitted invoices in the beginning of August 2021, as the district was preparing to reopen school buildings after a year of online learning. Wright told the district that he paid the company because of pressure from a district official “to get all properties cut before schools’ reopening,” according to the internal report.

The district official, business operations chief Genard Phillips, had told Wright that the contract expansion could be taken to the board for “after the fact” approval, internal auditors wrote. The MSCS board later approved an expansion to the contract, public records show. (The vendor, Supreme Lawn Care, has an active contract with MSCS.) The internal audit report said Phillips “exceeded his authority” with those instructions. Phillips resigned from MSCS late last year, and his personnel file does not include any internal investigations related to the audit. But his departure and replacement were recorded in the audit report filed with the state as a corrective measure to improve the ethics and ac-

When Memphis-Shelby County Schools board Vice Chair Sheleah Harris resigned last week, she called for a district audit to root out what she claimed was widespread corruption. Some of the issues she raised appear to mirror the ones addressed in a recent audit. countability of district processes.

“I didn’t authorize (Wright) to do anything that would have been outside of board policy,” Phillips told Chalkbeat, adding that he did not dispute any of the findings in the audit report filed with the state.

Wiiliams appointed Phillips’ successor, Julius Muse, in October 2022.

Muse would also oversee a new procedure for monitoring district inventory, according to the state report, which found that some lawn equipment had been stolen.

Auditors also found that Wright violated the district’s “vague” conflict-of-interest policy on gifts by accepting tickets to Grizzlies basketball games and other sporting events from cleaning vendors. The vendors at the time — ServiceMaster Stratos and SKB Facilities, plus former subcontractor Action Chemical — told auditors they were not aware of the district’s policy, and regularly gave tickets to all customers.

Wright was put on leave last fall.

While MSCS told auditors he was terminated, Wright said — and his personnel file shows — that he resigned, shortly after the internal audit report was complete.

“I never abused my position,” Wright told Chalkbeat.

Department restructuring targeted

conflicts of interest Among other allegations in her statements, Harris questioned a subsequent restructuring that shifted the procurement department from business operations to finance.

According to the audit, that was done “to provide more fiscal oversight and independence from operations.” Several staff received training to avoid conflicts of interest, and the district planned to strengthen procurement policies and procedures.

The audit also found that a senior employee — who was assigned to review payroll for part of their department — received unowed payment during vacation time, of about $1,000. MSCS responded by requiring direct supervisors and department heads to review payroll, the audit shows.

Documents about these matters are addressed to the members of the board and the school board chair.

Since their publication, the findings have not appeared to be part of public discussions by the body. MSCS did not respond to a Chalkbeat request for confirmation of this.

(Laura Testino covers Memphis-Shelby County Schools for Chalkbeat Tennessee. Reach Laura at LTestino@chalkbeat.org.)

Rep. Pearson eyes Aug. General Election after another primary election win TSD Newsroom

Here she comes…

Businesswoman and philanthropist Dr. Carnita Atwater, who surprised many with a stronger than expected run for Tennessee governor in 2022, has made it official. She now is running for president of the United States. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Rep. Justin J. Pearson’s lopsided victory in the latest election to determine a House District 86 state representative sends a “resounding message to the powers that be in Nashville,” Pearson said after his Democratic Primary win (Jan. 15).

The message, Pearson said in a released statement, is “undemocratic, mobocracy-like actions will no longer be met with silence and inaction.

They will be met head-on with People Power.”

Pearson and Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville) were expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives earlier this year for helping lead a gun control protest on the House floor. Days later, local election officials reinstated Pearson and Jones, with special elections set for both positions.

Jones was unopposed in Thursday’s primary election for his Nashville seat, which also is heavily Democratic. He faces Republican Laura Nelson in the Aug. 3 general election.

In the District 86 special election, Pearson easily outpolled his Democratic challenger, David Page. With no Republican challenger, Pearson will face Jeff Johnston, an independent, in the Aug. 3 general election.

“I am humbled by and grateful for the resounding support I have received,” Pearson said in the statement released after Thursday’s victory. “I promise to never turn away from injustice, to never turn away from the people of District 86 or to those who have been pushed aside.”

Rep. Justin J. Pearson with his fiancée, Oceana R. Gilliam, at the Democratic Primary victory party. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/The New TriState Defender) Pearson first won a special election primary for his seat in January.

Because he had no general election opponent, local officials appointed him to fill the seat early. After his expulsion, he was appointed back to the seat. If he wins the August general election, he will still be up for election again in the 2024 cycle, with an August primary and November general election.

Pearson – in his statement – said he was committed to bringing the “voices of those who have been pushed to the periphery to the center of the conversation for change” and to fighting to “have the decisions that are made at the state level better reflect the needs of everyone.”

Taking time to commend Page for “his desire to serve the people of District 86,” Pearson said, “We will continue to send a clarion call to District 86 and across the state of Tennessee

that power must and will be restored to the people. …

“I look forward to the general election and to what the people will say then.”

Pearson and Jones, along with Democratic Rep. Gloria Johnson of Knoxville, rose to national prominence after their House Floor protest, three days after a shooting at The Covenant School, a Christian school in Nashville, killed three 9-year-olds and three adults. Republican lawmakers booted the lawmakers from office on April 6 for violating decorum rules during the protest, while sparing Johnson, who is white, from expulsion by one vote for her role in the demonstration.

They made tours of national media appearances, hauled in campaign donations from across the country and visited President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House.

Meanwhile, lawmakers are preparing for a special session called by Republican Gov. Bill Lee, who is pushing to remove firearms from people judged dangerous to themselves or others. Republicans, who have supermajorities in the House and Senate, declined to take up Lee’s proposal during the legislative session that ended in April. Lee told reporters last week that crafting the parameters of what will be considered during the session could take a couple more months, as he fields input from lawmakers.

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

The New Tri-State Defender

June 22 - 28, 2023

Page 8

NEWS

Police: Four-year-old Sequoia Samuels had been dead for weeks

The mother of a 4-yearold Tennessee girl who was reported missing told authorities after a daylong search that the girl had been dead for several weeks, according to a police affidavit.

Remains believed to be those of Sequoia Samuels were found late Thursday (June 15) near the apartment where she lived, Memphis police said in a statement. Her mother had reported her missing that morning, saying she had woken to find her front door open

and the child gone.

A police affidavit filed June 16 said Brittany Jackson lied when she made the initial call about her daughter, news outlets reported. Jackson later told investigators that her boyfriend, Jaylon Hobson, had physically attacked the girl until she became unresponsive and couldn’t be revived, the affidavit said. The girl’s body was then placed in several trash bags and stored inside the residence until it was moved to a trash can the morn-

ing police were called, according to the affidavit.

Jackson, 24, is charged with aggravated child neglect, abuse of a corpse and filing a false offense report, Memphis police said. Hobson, 21, has been charged with filing a false offense report, police said.

Hobson “denied involvement” in Samuels’ death when he talked with police.

“Hobson stated that he last saw Samuels last Sunday, June 11, 2023, which is impossible

due to the advance state of decomposition of the human remains believed to be Samuels,” the affidavit said.

Police said they were continuing to investigate and asked that anyone with information come forward.

Shelby County Juvenile Court has confirmed that the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services filed a dependency and neglect petition involving Samuels on Feb. 11, 2022. It was dismissed on July 18, 2022.

Remains believed to be those of Sequoia Samuels were found late Thursday near the apartment where she lived, Memphis police said in a statement. Her mother had reported her missing that morning, saying she had woken to find her front door open and the child gone.

(Screen capture)

Talking Juneteenth past, present and future…

St. Paul “Douglass” MBC was the venue for Juneteenth – A conversation of change, a panel discussion held as part of Monday’s celebrations of the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Africans. Pictured (l-r): the Rev. Dr. Earle J. Fisher, Social Activisit Tami Sawyer, Karanja A. Ajanaku, Dr. Telisa Franklin, Shelby County Commissioner Brittney Thornton and Pastor Dan Henley.

(Photo: Wiley Henry)

MLGW Engineering & Information Technology/ Information Services Job Fair

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 10 A.M. - 2 P.M.

SCAN QR CODE

TO RSVP

MLGW IS LOOKING FOR ENGINEERS WITH DEGREES (Bachelor’s Degree / Associate’s Degree)

MLGW IS LOOKING FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/ INFORMATION SERVICES PROFESSIONALS WITH DEGREES (Bachelor’s Degree)

Joyce Blackmon Training Center (MLGW University) 4949 Raleigh LaGrange Road Memphis, TN 38128 DISCLAIMER: This job fair is ONLY for Engineering and Information Technology/Information Services positions

The New Tri-State Defender

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: Joshua Moss Tax Parcel #: 02503700000240 Tax Sale #: 1804 Price Offered: $3,500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on July 20, 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 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: Ashley Jackson Tax Parcel #: 08801200000660 Tax Sale #: 1804 Price Offered: $16,900.00 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 July 20, 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 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: Brennae Brooks Tax Parcel #: 07524400000370 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $10,200.00 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 11:00 a.m. on July 19, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1

June 22 - 28, 2023

CLASSIFIEDS

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

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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: Phoenix Fire Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 01301600000210 Tax Sale #: 1301 Price Offered: $2,700.00 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 July 19, 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 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: DANIEL MORENO Tax Parcel #: 04803200000250 Tax Sale #: 1102 Price Offered: $1,500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on July 19, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Page 9

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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: Erica Conley Tax Parcel #: 06016100000010 Tax Sale #: 1804 Price Offered: $5,500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on July 19, 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 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: Luis Felipe Scopel Tax Parcel #: 04802300000280 Tax Sale #: 1502 Price Offered: $750.00 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 July 19, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest

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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: Karrington Christian Tax Parcel #: 06007900001200 Tax Sale #: 1401 Price Offered: $750.00 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 11:30 a.m. on July 17, 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 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: Karrington Christian Tax Parcel #: 07503700000140 Tax Sale #: 505 Price Offered: $2,500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten

(10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 11:00 a.m. on July 17, 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 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: Karrington Christian Tax Parcel #: 05004700000070 Tax Sale #: 1201 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 July 17, 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 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: Karrington Christian

Tax Parcel #: 05004600000360 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1,125.00 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 July 17, 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 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: Anabelia Najera Tax Parcel #: 09003300000120 Tax Sale #: 1901 Price Offered: $5,700.00 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 July 17, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

The New Tri-State Defender

June 22 - 28, 2023

Page 10

SPORTS

Juneteenth and Douglass – a match worthy of an ongoing celebration...

The Juneteenth Douglass Freedom and Heritage Festival celebrated its 30th anniversary last Saturday (June 17) at Douglass Park.

While President Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 17, 2021, it has been celebrated with a festival in the Douglass community since 1993.

(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

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