The New Tri-State Defender - December 29, 2022-January 4, 2023

2022 PHOTOS TELL A STORY OF

VOL. 71, No. 52

Page 5

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The New Tri-State

TSD photojournalists captured key moments from the past year that made life in Memphis memorable.

See Pages 4-5

December 29,

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The New Tri-State

Defender

December 29,

2022 - January

4, 2023

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4, 2023

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A STORY OF

2022

PHOTOS TELL

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2022 - January

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$1.00

My top five educational issues for MSCC in 2023

by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Nothing about the year 2022 has been boring as far as k-12 education is concerned.

Quite the contrary, the year has been filled with a continuous stream of drama and excitement.

COVID continues to wreak havoc, the teacher shortage is an ever-present nemesis to school systems across America, and violence in our schools continues to rear its ugly head.

There are a few issues, however, that are of particular interest to me.

Below are the top five educational issues I will be tracking as the 2023 calendar year unfolds.

No. 5: The politics in our educational system Some people think educational

institutions, especially k-12 school systems, should distance themselves as far away from politics as possible.

While that Curtis may be a wonWeathers derful dream, the truth is our educational systems are inherently political and that fact is not going to change anytime soon, especially in Memphis.

From the governor’s office to halls of our legislature, to our local school board, politics is an ever-present participant in the day-today decision-making and operations of our schools.

SEE K-12 ON PAGE 2

Described as a water-pressure issue, the effect is a crisis that some in Memphis are feeling more acutely than others. On Tuesday came details of water being provided – not to drink – but to be used to force flush toilets. A worker carries one of the buckets of non-potable water at a distribution point in Hickory Hill. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Water worries!

Crisis prompts help from multiple quarters for thousands without water service

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Kwanzaa...

The Kukutana African American Museum of Culture and History at 1036 Firestone Avenue was the venue as the Shelby County Legislative Black Caucus held its 1st Annual Kwanzaa program on Monday night, the first night of the annual celebration.

(Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) See more Kwanzaa Page 8.

It has been all hands on deck this week as private citizens, government officials, businesses, and organizations garnered the resources needed to provide residents with safe drinking water.

The water crisis developed when brutal below-freezing temperatures burst water mains, resulting in low-water pressure or no running water for some 38,000 Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division customers.

The crisis sparked a countywide boil-water advisory that was still in effect Wednesday (Dec. 28) afternoon.

Rodney Peterson, a Hickory Hill resident, was one of the thousands of

customers who had to deal with the full impact of the crisis.

“We have been without running water for some days now. It really is true that you don’t miss your water until the well runs dry. I’m just happy there are places in Memphis where you can at least get bottled water,” Peterson said Tuesday (Dec. 27) while joining dozens of people lined up outside of Hickory Ridge Mall to receive cases of bottled water.

Hickory Hill and Southeast Shelby County are designated as two of the hardest-hit areas.

Here are the latest developments Wednesday afternoon: • MLGW President and CEO Doug McGowen said the utility is closing in on completing repairs to damaged water mains across the city and water pressure is back to normal.

Send them forward: MLGW’s Richard Thompson, senior communications specialist, signals for the first of those waiting to receive cases of bottled water at the Lamar site to come toward him. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender) The pressure normalization allows the utility to collect and test water samples. He said, “The next step is when will the boil advisory be lifted … I want it lifted as soon as we possibly can.”

• MLGW announced nonessential water use is allowed again. Under

SEE WATER ON PAGE 2

Up-down season ends with the Tigers standing tall

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

DALLAS — The University of Memphis Tigers football team entered the season with high hopes of building on a floor-level expectation – keeping intact the program’s streak of playing in bowl games.

They nailed the floor goal (now nine straight) and added on with a 38-10 win over Utah State in the First Responders’ Bowl in Dallas on Tuesday

(Dec. 27) afternoon.

With the win, Memphis notched a 7-6 season and pushed the Aggies under .500 (6-7) in the game played on the campus of Southern Methodist University, where the Tigers fell short (34-31) with seconds remaining in a comeback bid against the SMU Mustangs on Nov. 26.

“It has been a wonderful season for us, filled with ups and downs,” said Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield. “It (the win) was a great mo-

ment for our program. I am proud of our guys.

“We are going to gain from those wins and losses over the season. We are going to celebrate this and be

SEE TIGERS ON PAGE 2 Redshirt sophomore Koby Drake (85) goes all out for extra yards after hauling in this pass.

(Photo: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

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The New Tri-State Defender

WATER

CONTINUED FROM FRONT its drought management plan, the Memphis-owned utility prohibited non-essential water use, including car washes.

• Local Tennessee legislators said they will explore ways to, among other efforts, help MLGW with infrastructure funding when the new legislative session begins next month.

• The Memphis City Council Wednesday announced free water distribution sites beginning at 2 p.m. The locations are District 1, New Raleigh Civic Center, 3384 Austin Peay; District 2, Bert Ferguson Community Center, 8505 Trinity Road; District 3, Hickory Hill Community Center, 3910 Ridgeway; District 4, Fire Station 22, 2690 Lamar; District 5, Pink Palace, 3050 Central; District 6, Ruth Tate Senior Center, 1620 Marjorie, and District 7, Hollywood Community Center, 1560 N. Hollywood. Call 901-6366786 for more information.

• The Shelby County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Kroger Delta Division, and Tennessee Valley Authority teamed up to distribute over 38,000 bottles of water to Shelby County residents impacted by the boil water advisory. The giveaway was scheduled for 2 p.m. through 4 p.m.

Wednesday at the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Warehouse, 6393 Haley Road.

• Representatives from the Reaves Law Firm helped out with MLGW’s water distribu-

tion at First Baptist ChurchBroad, including donating $8,000 to cover the cost of 160 cases of water.

McGowen’s water-pressure announcement should give residents like Hickory Hill’s Peterson hope that their suffering should be at an end or end soon.

“We were just over at the community center, getting water to flush the toilet,” said Peterson. “One purpose for using water is just as important as the other. I am thankful for what anybody does for me, but we’re just ready for this nightmare to end.”

A city public works crew gave out unpotable water Tuesday to assist families in flushing the toilet. Memphians from across the city came to the Hickory Hill Community Center to get the untreated water.

“Many of the people we have talked to have water pressure issues in their homes,” said Public Works Director Robert M. Knecht. “We just never anticipated the low temperatures that caused freezing and main breaks. A lot of breaks occurred on the private side, in vacant buildings. You never can tell what Mother Nature is going to do.”

A group of volunteers from Lowe’s in Collierville stood outside of the Hickory Ridge Mall in frigid temperatures on Tuesday afternoon to offer cases of bottled water to those in need.

“Our corporate foundation is called ABLE, A Better Life for Everyone,” said Collierville store Manager Russell Hubbard III. “We want to

December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023

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K-12

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Lavon Smith works in Hickory Hill but lives in Whitehaven. She said the free bottled water was “a big blessing” for which she was grateful. show support for those who have been so affected by this water crisis. We are thankful for the ability to reach out and help our neighbors.”

Whitehaven resident James Moore said the water was a God send.

“It has only been a few days, but I guess it seems like we have been without drinking water for a month,” Moore said. “We appreciate these young people who are out here working so hard to help the situation.

“My granddaughter lives in South Memphis. They have been without running water for a few days now. So, they came over to stay with me until water is restored.”

Lowe’s offered residents as many cases of water as they requested, with larger families receiving as many as five cases.

“I just ran over here to pick up some drinking water,” said Lavon Smith of Whitehaven.

“I work in this area, and it was convenient for me. Thank God we are only dealing with low water pressure. Other families around us were not so lucky.

They don’t have running water at all.”

James Moore of Whitehaven was driven to the Hickory Ridge Mall by his granddaughter, Darneisha McGhee. McGhee has been living with Moore this week because her South Memphis home has no running water. (Photos: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/ The New Tri-State Defender) For many, the situation has been a bit more stressful. The presence of small children without running water has caused unsanitary conditions.

“There are four small children in my household,” said Beverly Crane. “My mother also lives with me, and there has not been any running water. I had to take my mother and two of the youngest children to my cousin’s house to stay.

“We haven’t been able to flush the toilet for five days now. It seems like our city officials would have prepared for, at least, the possibility of something like this happening. It has happened before, but it just was not for this long. This is such a hardship on our family.”

Knecht said crews from public works will be out “for the next couple of days” offering unpotable water, which can be used to flush the toilet only.

Potable water, which is water suitable to consume, may be used to drink, prepare food, brush, and bathe.

Politics sometimes, unfortunately, can hurt children and families. I’m hoping that 2023 will see a minimal number of disruptive politics being played with the lives and futures of our children. They deserve better.

No. 4: School funding This year, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and his administration made some significant changes to how our state funds public education. The governor passed his long-awaited TISA plan.

TISA stands for Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement, and it replaces Tennessee’s 30-year-old funding formula called the Basic Education Program, or BEP. The governor promises that this new formula “will take us to a new frontier.”

Well, we’ll see.

Tennessee currently ranks 44th nationally in education funding with an annual investment of $5.3 billion by state government. Lee’s plan would invest an additional $1 billion more annually for students by 2024.

But even an additional $1 billion in TISA won’t significantly alter Tennessee’s national ranking in funding for public school education.

I’m hoping the governor finds the political will to move us out of the bottom and make some significant changes to how we pay and support our teachers in Memphis and across the state of Tennessee.

No. 3: The teacher shortage

Ryan Silverfield had a 0-3 record as a head coach in Dallas before the Tigers breezed past Utah State.

(Photos: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

TIGERS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT proud of the moment, with our eyes looking forward to bigger and brighter things for the Memphis Tigers’ program.”

The start was slow – very – for the Tigers. On the team’s first three possessions, Memphis could not block the defenders in front of them. The Aggies were able to penetrate to get tackles for losses and early sacks of quarterback Seth Henigan All-conference kicker Chris Howard booted the Tigers in front (3-0) before the Aggies tied it on a 53-yard field goal

by Conner Cole.

Memphis owned the second quarter, scoring 21 unanswered points as Henigan threw three touchdowns. The first two went to Eddie Lewis (15 and 22 yards) and the third to tight end Caden Prieskorn from three yards out. Henigan threw for 217 yards in the first half.

“I took a couple of sacks early that stalled out plays.

We had a lot of penalties,” said Henigan. “Coming into the game, we were one of the least-penalized teams. We had a lot of flagged plays that stalled our drives. In the second quarter, the spark really helped us win the game. The rest of the game and second half, we just wanted to maintain clock management.”

Syvonte Oliver intercepted a pass less than two minutes into the second half but the offense did not capitalize on the

Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan earned the MVP trophy for guiding the Tigers past the Aggies. turnover. And with 3:58 left in the third quarter, the Tigers made mistakes that opened the door for the Aggies. On three consecutive plays, the Tigers had a sack, a false start and another sack with a fumble lost

by Henigan.

The defense held up and forced a punt.

With 11:04 left in the game, the Aggies scored their only touchdown when backup quarterback Bishop Davenport connected with Brian Cobbs from 44 yards out.

Up 24-10, the Tigers answered with a 47-yard drive capped by a 1-yard touchdown run by Jevyon Ducker. The drive was set up by an unsuccessful on-sides kick by the Aggies.

Ducker, who led the Tigers in rushing (83 yards), broke free for a 48-yard touchdown run that sealed the deal for Memphis.

The defense kept the Aggies under control all game. That effort included three interceptions. Oliver snared two and Joel Williams got his first. as a Memphis Tigers.

Quindell Johnson, one of the leaders of the defense, played his last game as a Tiger.

“When we played Mississippi State (at the beginning of the season) we had prepared and felt confident going into the game,” Johnson said, adding that the loss was a wake-up call.

“We knew we had a lot

With a Utah State defender trailing, Roc Taylor makes a big catch for the Tigers. of work to do. Then going through the season, we had (times) where we were consistent and then times that we weren’t consistent.”

Silverfield amplified on the improvement of the defense.

“When we started the season with Mississippi State, you knew how tough of an opponent that would be. We did not (play) our best game. We have played 14 different guys in our secondary this season.

That is way too many.”

Henigan was playing 35 miles from where he played high school football. He finished with 289 yards passing, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He was named the game’s Most Valuable Player.

It was quite a turnaround for Henigan. In the loss to SMU, his pass into the endzone with six seconds remaining was intercepted as the Tiger’s push for the win fell three points short.

“It is a tough pill to swallow, to come back home and play a conference opponent and end a game the way it did last time.

That is a lot on his shoulder.

I will ultimately put that on me,” said Silverfield.

“He is such a mentally tough young man. To come out and do what he did statistically today and lead the team to victory has been huge.”

Silverfield said the loss to SMU in the closing seconds on the same field was last-second lost to SMU on the same field was the “storyline of this

season – would have, could have and should have. … I am proud to get a win today for what it meant to those guys in the locker room.”

Saying he could finally exhale, Silverfield added, “This season has been tough. No one is pleased with the final record. To get a bowl win and end as a champion, it is huge.

There are only so many teams that can end as champions.”

At the beginning of the 2022 school year, Memphis-Shelby County Schools had more than 200 unfilled teaching positions. This, of course, is not just a problem in Memphis but is mirrored across the state and the nation.

A recent survey by the American Federation of Teachers found that more than 80 percent of its k-12 members are dissatisfied with their jobs, a 34 percent increase from the start of the pandemic.

The survey also found that 40 percent of its members are thinking seriously about leaving the teaching profession for good within the next two years.

According to a recent Economic Policy Institute report, even before COVID, U.S. schools were struggling to fill open teacher positions.

For example, between 2008 and 2016, the number of people graduating with education degrees decreased by more than 15 percent.

In Tennessee, the latest report

card on the state’s 43 teacher training programs found that the number of new educators graduating from college has dropped by nearly one-fifth over a five-year period.

This issue will get far worse before it gets better.

No. 2: Academic gains or the lack thereof Yes, Memphis Shelby County Schools is indeed “trending up” academically. But those gains are not “significant.”

Students made gains in every grade and nearly every subject on the 2021-22 TCAP exam.

For example, high school English scores were the strongest they’ve been in the last five years and district elementary reading and math scores improved as well.

But that’s not enough.

Parents and Memphians in general want to see gains in performance sustained over an extended period that are “significant.”

But such gains may be hard to achieve anytime soon given the current shake-up in leadership at the top of the organization.

Our hope is that our schools can stay focused and build on the momentum of last year’s performance as the new leadership at the top settles in.

No. 1: Finding a new superintendent Last, but in no way is it the least of our challenges, the search for a new superintendent.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools is now in need of a new leader.

The shakeup at the top of the organization has been unsettling to say the least and will likely be an even bigger distraction once the search process gets fully underway.

The search will be challenging, but I’m confident that we have people in greater Memphis, possibly in our own school system, who can lead the Memphis-Shelby County Schools.

I’m hoping that those who are leading the search will manage the process well and find a person who will invest their lives into the Memphis community.

Conclusion So, these are the top five issues I will be tracking in 2023.

The year is expected to be an exciting one, and the future of our children hangs in the balance. Let’s keep our children, parents, educators, and community in our prayers.

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

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023, Page 3

Teaching abroad – not for the faint at heart; definitely worth the experience

by Angela Sargent

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It was the 1st of September, and we had been involved in 8 weeks of intense professional development. We had been trained on everything from the employee handbook to the school curriculum. Surprisingly, it was the same curriculum we used in my former school system.

We were pumped and ready to meet our parents and students when we were called to our general assembly location. The director announced that the first order of business for the new Minister of Education was to delay the start of school until September 18th so that all international schools would have a unified start date.

Due to this change, we were told to report to work on September 15th. The entire staff was in shock. I became anxious; because coming to work was helping me deal with my homesick woes.

After the initial shock wore off, a group of teachers decided to take a road trip to Dehab, Egypt. We packed our bags and caught the 6 am bus to Dehab. It was an 8-hour ride with five security checks. Each check required that we get off the bus, unload our luggage, open the bags, and show our passports.

The ride to Dehab is only 4 hours, but due to the intense security checks, it took much longer. Once we arrived, I was able to do what I considered biblically historical things. I went scuba diving in the Red Sea and climbed Mt. Sinai to see the sunrise.

The feeling of anxiety that I once felt began to transform into empowerment and liberation.

In Dehab, I saw a side of Egypt that I had yet to be exposed to while in Cairo. I met and talked to Egyptians who had gone from beggars to business owners. Dehab is filled with seaside restaurants and stores that are breathtaking and welcoming to people worldwide.

Then, after five beautiful days of exploring, it was time to head back to Cairo and prepare our minds for work. I felt refreshed and even more energized. I was ready to take on my assignment as a 2nd-grade teacher.

It is September 15th, and it is meet the teacher night. I am nervous and excited.

This was my first encounter with the parents and students. I had so many questions going through my head, i.e., will my appearance intimidate them, would we be able to understand each other, and most importantly, how will the students receive me?

I am an eccentric African American woman from the south. I did not know what to expect. To my surprise, the parents were very welcoming and celebrated my unique-

Angela Sargent’s teaching assignment in Cairo, Egypt is a dream come true for the veteran Memphis teacher. Her experiences are periodically chronicled in The New Tri-State Defender. This is her third account. ness. The students and I took to each other like old friends. They had many questions about America, Disney Land, New York, and the President. I left there that night feeling so grateful to be a teacher.

September 18th is the first day of school, and everyone is energized and ready to start the school year. Each day begins outside in the garden with a salute to the Egyptian flag and the country’s anthem. Teachers and students are dismissed to their classrooms for a day full of rigor and elementary school adventures.

The school culture is very different in Egypt. There are nannies and matrons assigned to every hall of the school. The nannies who wear pink are responsible for handling the personal needs of the students, such as assistance in the restrooms and changing clothes. The nannies in blue manage all the cleaning needs of the hall and transport water from the outdoor water supply inside.

Lastly, the matrons are the assistants to the teachers. They monitor the students during restroom breaks or take students to the doctor when needed.

There is also one butler on staff. He prepares and delivers coffee and tea throughout the entire school day. It is quite an unbelievable experience. The students are served catered meals with various choices, from Koshari (a traditional Egyptian dish consisting of rice, pasta, and lentils) to the All-American burger.

Students also have access to specialty training, such as swimming, gymnastics, and fitness, all on the school campus. Most parents view special training as more important than homework. Parents are vocal about the importance of training and the lack of time for additional schoolwork.

Arabic, French, and Religion are also

Angela Sargent made it to the top of Mt. Sinai with a Bedouin guide and enjoyed the fresh fish dish at YaYa’s seaside restaurant.

Angela Sargent in her second-grade classroom. (Photos: Courtesy of Angela Sargent)

taught during our school day. Due to the mixed culture, the Religion classes are taught separately upon parents’ request.

I learned so much about Egyptian culture just by merely taking attendance.

Students do not have what Americans call last names; they have family names. Each student is given the first name then they take on their father’s 1st name and grandfather’s 1st name.

They use the father’s1st name for school.

For example. Ali ( child’s name), Mohammed (father’s name), Ahmed ( grandfather’s name). For school purposes, he is called Ali Mohammed.

My experience here has intensified my passion for teaching. I have used my gift of teaching to facilitate learning beyond the obstacles of language, religion, and social economic status.

I have learned so much from the students and my day-to-day life as an ex-pat. Teaching abroad is not for the faint at heart, but it is definitely worth experiencing.

You will never see teaching the same way again.

(Follow Angela’s journey in The New Tri-State Defender and online at TSDMemphis.com.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

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The New Tri-State Defender

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Kadesha Gordon, Immaculate Conception’s first African-American principal, was excited to welcome the Wildcats back to the Pre-K–8th grade campus. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Bobby O’Jay checks out the advanced control board in the new WDIA studio. The WDIA program director fell unconscious during his show (May 3). He suffered a fatal massive heart attack. (Photo: Courtesy of Mark Stansbury)

Beale Street was royal ground as the Memphis in May International Festival’s monthlong salute to the Republic of Ghana crescendoed with a visit by King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the 16th Asantehene (King of Asante). The afternoon celebration featured a traditional Ghanian “Durbar Ceremony” to “honor ancestors cleanse society and pray for the fruitfulness of the land and the welfare of the people.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

PHOTOS TELL A STORY OF

2022

Students and teachers were set on go Monday (Aug. 8), the first day of school at Circles of Success Learning Academy, which U.S. News & World Report ranked as one of Tennessee’s five best charter elementary schools in 2021. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. takes in accolades from Shelby County Commission Chairman Eddie Jones (right), with Commissioners Reginald Milton (left) and Cheyenne Johnson (center) joining in with Bishop Henry M. Williamson Sr, presiding bishop of the First Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church and others. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) COGIC delegates share a laugh as a vendor applies his trade. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

The 33rd Southern Heritage Classic Cultural Celebration was a three-day, multi-event affair that – according to many of the thousands that attended – once again delivered some much-needed fun. Events accompaning the Classic were enjoyed by fans young and old. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Fast Eddie Lewis: “It was routine. ...” I trust the guys on the return, and I just ran it. I knew I scored.” The University of Memphis Tigers shutout the Lions of North Alabama 59-0 at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. (Photo: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

Starbucks employees seeking to form a union welcomed the support of the Rev. Dr. William Barber, the president and senior lecturer at Repairers of the Breach and co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.”

Clasping hands with Barber is Nikki Taylor one of the union seekers dubbed the “Memphis Seven.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

COGIC Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard delivered a brief and dramatic eulogy, extolling both his relationship with “Mother” Louise D. Patterson and a scriptural message. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/ The New Tri-State Defender) Ja Morant drives and scores for two of his 30 points against the Utah Jazz in his first game after being named an All-Star Game starter. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender) During a ceremony at Memphis National Cemetery, two police officers led a rider-less horse that was followed by a procession of hearses as commemorators recalled the massacre of African-American soldiers at Fort Pillow. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

In the second round of the NCAA Tournament, the University of Memphis Tigers lost a hard fought game against Gongaza (82-78). The finality of the season hits Memphis guard Landers Nolley II, who is comforted by teammate Josh Minott (right).

(Photo: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

The 2022 Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival was vibrant with children, an indication that its original intent has taken root. Drawn by the African drums, four-year-old Ayden Christopher beats his way forward. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

The New Tri-State Defender

December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023

Page 6

RELIGION

Florence Louise Jackson – ‘You could count on her’ TSD Newsroom Orange Mound has a collective soul that is shared and embraced by residents and former residents. Florence Louise Jackson was the embodiment of that truth.

Her passion was cooking; she absolutely loved it. What she produced was shared willingly and widely with a multitude of friends, even strangers.

On Dec. 17, Mrs. Jackson died at age 89.

“Florence Louise Jackson was an absolutely wonderful woman, who loved the Lord, her family, her church (pastor and first lady),” said the Rev. Robert Matthews, pastor of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church on Elvis Presley.

“Not only that, she loved her community. If you ever needed anything that she had or could get for you, you could count on her. As her pastor, I know that for a fact.

She was known especially and particularly for the many people that she fed.”

She joined New Hope when it was under the leadership of the late Rev. Charles B. Burgs.

Born May 15, 1933 in Leflore County, Mississippi, she was the oldest of eight children born to the late Gabriel Taylor and Laura Choctaw Taylor. At an early age, she joined Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood, Miss., which was pastored by the late Rev. T. H. Tompkin.

She attended Greenwood public schools. After graduating from Broad Street High School, she married the late Willie Lee Jackson and later moved to Memphis. The Jacksons had six children.

In Memphis, she met two people who became lifelong friends – her “sisters” – Gladys McChriston and Mary Scruggs.

Spotting Mrs. Jackson’s love for Orange Mound was as easy as passing by her house, with many recalling signs that read “Yard of the Month” or “Yard of the Year.”

“From the time I was 15 years old, Mrs. Jackson was my ‘Mother from God,” said filmmaker George W. Tillman Jr., who starred in football at old Messick High School and later at Fisk University in Nashville.

“After football, basketball and track practice, I would go to Mrs. Jackson’s house, eat and play with her children.

She took me in as one of her own children. Even after going to college, I would still always come back to Mrs. Jackson’s house. She would call me frequently after my

Florence Louise Jackson, shown here with Cheryl Henderson and Saladin Muhammad, took pride in her home in Orange Mound. (Courtesy photo)

George W. Tillman Jr., who met Mrs. Florence Louise Taylor-Jackson when he was 15, helped celebrate her 87th birthday. (Courtesy photo) parents died to see how I was doing.”

Tillman said before Mrs. Jackson died, “I said to her that I loved her and she said to me, ‘I love you to.’”

Services A wake service is set for 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday at M.J. Edwards-Whitehaven, 5494 Elvis Presley Blvd. The funeral service will be at noon on Saturday at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 2356 Elvis Presley Blvd., with visitation from 10:55 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.

Burial will be at West Tennessee Forest Hill Irene, 4000 Forest Hill Irene Rd.

Florence Louise Jackson

‘Make Room for Jesus’ TSD Newsroom

The Rev. Marvin Mims (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

That was the topic of the Rev. Marvin Mims, pastor of St. Mark Baptist Church-Lauderdale, during a sermon delivered at the weekly meeting of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association.

The topic was drawn from the second chapter of St. Luke: 2. And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

3. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called

Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of

the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.

The New Tri-State Defender

December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT

Memphis Black Arts Legacy Honors & Ball

Carla Thomas enters for the gala event.

Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, Grammy award-winning producer and engineer, composer, and songwriter was among the honorees. He and his sister, Oona, own and operate legendary Royal Studios. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

During its epic 40th anniversary celebration, the Memphis Black Arts Alliance honored Black creatives such as Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and producer Katori Hall, “who have made major contributions to the rich heritage of Black art, literature and culture.”

Widely-acclaimed rapper Al Kapone.

The 40th anniversary of the Memphis Black Arts Alliance (MBAA), founded by Bennie West, was the cause of the celebration held at the Halloran Centre on Dec. 17.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023, Page 8

Kwanzaa in Memphis celebration begins with a snowy backdrop The 2022 celebration of Kwanzaa in Memphis began Monday morning amid blowing snow and the temperature a couple of degrees above freezing. Determined to kick off the annual observance, a band of faithful pushed forward and assembled downtown at the Auction Block at Main and A.W. Willis.

Organized by Mid-South Kwanzaa, Inc., the gathering initiates a week-long acknowledgment and celebration of African-American culture.

After Osupa Moon set the tone for the occasion, Omar Baruti poured libations as he led a recalling and honoring of ancestors – historical and recent, including departed family members and friends of those who came out for the observance.

There were songs. And there were the sounds of African instruments, including those provided by Ekpe Abioto, who added to the ceremony by spreading dirt imported from the “Motherland.”

Historically each year, millions of African Americans gather with friends and family throughout Kwanzaa week to honor the holiday’s seven founding principles: Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the seven principles, collectively known as the Nguzo Saba. An evening candle-lighting ceremony provides an opportunity to discuss the principle and its meaning.

On the first night, the black candle in the center is lit and the principle of Umoja (Unity) is discussed. This year, that ceremony was scheduled for Gifts of Life Ministries, 3381 Raleigh-Millington Rd. However, storm-related flooding there forced a late cancellation.

The Kwanzaa principles are: Umoja (Unity): maintaining unity as a family, community, and race of people.

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): defining, naming, creating, and speaking for ourselves.

Ujima (Collective Work and Re-

Osupa Moon opens the Day 1 celebration of Kwanzaa in Memphis on Monday morning (Dec. 26). (Photos: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)

Omar Baruti (left) and Eke Abioto embrace this young Kwanzaa-goer’s desire to participate.

Celebrating Day 1 of Kwanzaa (Umoja) at the Auction Block. sponsibility): building and maintaining our community – solving problems together.

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics: building and maintaining retail stores and other businesses and profit from these ventures.

Nia (Purpose): work collectively to build communities that will restore the greatness of African people.

Kuumba (Creativity): to find new, innovative ways to leave communi-

ties of African descent in more beautiful and beneficial ways than the community inherited.

Imani (Faith): the belief in God, family, heritage, leaders, and others that will lead to the victory of Africans around the world.

During Kwanzaa, participants greet each other with the Swahili phrase, Habari gani? Translated, it means “What’s happening?” “What’s the news?”

Each day’s principle is given in response.

So, on Monday morning amid the snowy weather and chilling temperatures, this exchange brought order to the day: “Habari gani?” (What’s happening? What’s the news?)

“Umoja!” (Unity) Last year, Mid-South Kwanzaa, Inc. shifted to hosting events on three designated days, with those days serving to honor multiple Kwanzaa principles instead of the customary observance of one principle each day.

Other observances scheduled this week:

will host a celebration of Ujamaa, cooperative economics at Providence A.M.E. Church, 384 Decatur Street (off North Parkway near Danny Thomas.) The observance is presented by Kwanzaa 365 the talk show “Memphis State of the City.” It begins at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 29

(For more information, contact Pearl Walker at 901-289-6909; Osupa Moon at 901-237-1705.)

Pearl Walker and Dr. Kevin Brooks

Sunday, January 1 The annual celebration concludes with an observance at Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church, 3890 Millbranch Rd., where the Rev. Dr. Earle J. Fisher is pastor. It is set for 3 p.m.

A Kwanzaa first for the Shelby County Legislative Black Caucus The Shelby County Legislative Black Caucus 1st Annual Kwanzaa program was “in loving memory” of the late and

long-serving State Rep. Barbara Cooper. (Photos by Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

The New Tri-State Defender

December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023

NEWS

COMMENTARY

Redeeming a dark chapter in Tennessee history

by Dr. Devin DeLaughter

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The terrible killing of George Floyd and other examples of police violence against African Americans ignited a political and cultural explosion in recent years.

T h e United States has come far from the era of state-enforced discrimination and segregation. Dr. Devin DeLaughter Recent events, however, remind us of the importance of learning from the past to pursue a better future.

In the case of Tennessee, we would do well to learn from the stark historical fact that America’s greatest civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was martyred in our state on April 4, 1968. He was 39.

That crime shocked the world. A Noble Laureate and famous advocate for peaceful social change and non-violence was assassinated in Memphis.

To redeem this history – and to shine a light that can help to heal our divided nation – I participated with Dr. Mathew Daniels and a team of academic experts in developing curricula to teach the power of Dr. King’s non-violent principles to a new generation, starting in Tennessee.

The mission of Dr. King’s tragically short life was to enable African Americans to claim the fundamental rights, enshrined in our country’s founding documents, for themselves and their children.

In a sense, Dr. King was a modern founder, who called on our nation to finally correct our history of slavery and segregation.

Indeed, Dr. King sacrificed his life so that America would not have to go down the violent path of Rwanda and so many other nations, where generations of racial injustice have led in turn to generations of racial slaughter.

Although sometimes dis-

missed for failing to respond as the world expected, Dr. King and so many other courageous civil rights advocates demonstrated that nonviolence worked.

This strategy triggered a long overdue national rejection of pervasive racial injustice.

Before Dr. King, Mahatma Gandhi used nonviolence to mount a nationwide campaign that freed India after centuries of colonial subservience.

Such an emphasis on nonviolence should be part of civic education, a subject often neglected today. The earlier we start the more effective such training will be.

This is the reason we felt, as educators, the need to launch a national initiative to teach Dr. King’s non-violent social justice principles to a new generation.

Our first step was to interview civil rights pioneers like former Ambassador Andrew Young, whose life and work embody those non-violent principles that are an essential foundation for productive citizenship in a democratic society.

We have also begun to reach out to other scholars and leaders in the educational field to help introduce curricula that our MLK Educational Initiative has developed to teach Dr. King’s unifying principles to a

An emphasis on nonviolence should be part of civic education, a subject often neglected today. The earlier we start the more effective such training will be. digital generation.

We deliberately chose to pilot these elective curricula in Tennessee, the state where Dr. King was martyred, and are now beginning to introduce both the high school and elementary school versions of our MLK curricula in a half dozen other states across the country.

The goal of our educational initiative is to try to raise thousands of Dr. Kings from every community in our great and diverse nation.

We want to harness the power of the tools of the Digital Age to be torchbearers for his transcendent ideals of social justice.

Six states already have begun piloting our educational program for elementary and high school students. Doing so increased students’ empathy for others and showed them an effective means to promote

SALES PERSON The New Tri-State Defender is looking for a few sales consultants to sell print ads, digital ads and event sponsorships for the organization.

The candidate should have some sales experience. The position will offer both commission and base pay. For serious inquiries email your resume to administration@ tsdmemphis.com.

social justice.

The June 17, 2015 massacre of nine African Americans by a young white supremacist at a Bible study at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina deeply shook a nation already jaded by frequent gun violence and heralded the return of violent white nationalism in America.

The massacre is evidence of the many racial demons still afflicting our society. But we can all learn from the history of the courageous families of Emanuel, who followed Dr. King’s example and refused to give in to the dark forces of hatred and violence.

Dr. King’s precious legacy, especially his commitment to non-violence and the universal brotherhood, offers the best hope for our increasingly divided nation.

When we teach future generations the non-violent social justice principles of Dr. King, we equip them to also shine a light on the darkness that leads towards a better future for us all.

(Dr. Devin DeLaughter is a Faculty Fellow at the Belmont University College of Education and Chair of the Tennessee Committee for the MLK Educational Initiative (www.mlkcurriculum.org).

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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: Jesse Birdsall Tax Parcel #: 07204900000150 Tax Sale #: 1004 Price Offered: $1125.00 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 January 27, 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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SPORTS

The New Tri-State Defender, December 29, 2022 - January 4, 2023, Page 10

Hannah Riddick: “We go into every contest thinking that we can win, and there’s no exception.” (Photos: U of M Athletics)

Ja Morant gets in the paint wearing his new Nike signature shoe for the first game. (Photos: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)

Grizzlies did not handle their business on Christmas night

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

SAN FRANCISCO – Upstaged and outplayed in their NBA at Christmas debut, the Memphis Grizzlies walked away from a sound beating by the Golden State Warriors pondering things they’ve “got to” and “have to” do.

Playing their second game this season with their full complement of starters and with Golden State missing two All-Stars in Stephen Curry and Andre Wiggins, the Warriors controlled the Grizzlies 123 to 109.

“Just got to be better,” said Ja Morant, who finished with 36 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and six turnovers in 40 minutes of action.

“Obviously, come out with more fire.

It came down to making shots. I think they shot 50 (percent) from three (point range). We shot terrible. There you go right there. You are not going to win many like that.”

Jaren Jackson Jr., who was neutralized by foul trouble that began early, echoed what was a post-game refrain.

“We got to start better,” said Jackson, who had 11 points, two rebounds and a turnover as he managed to stay on the court for only 21 minutes. “We need to stick with the game plan. We have to understand what we are doing and they were hitting a lot of shots.”

Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins stated what had to be obvious to the national television audience.

“They had better energy than us today,” said Jenkins. “They played great. Their physicality, their pace and their ball movement was phenomenal, regardless of who we had on the court.”

The Warriors (16-18) started the game determined not to get off to a slow start against the Grizzlies (20-

11). They led by as many as seven points (15-8) in the first quarter, with the Grizzlies pushing back to take a one-point advantage (26-25) with 3:06 to go.

Terry Making 6 of 11 Davis three-pointers, the Warriors were up 33-29 heading into the second.

Jordan Poole was a problem. He scored 17 points in the first quarter as he made four of five from deep. Stepping in for the injured Curry, Poole, a noted loudmouth, had 32 points before he picked up a second technical foul and was ejected from the game with 9:06 left to play. The Warriors led 106-89 at that juncture.

Memphis was down by as many as 13 points on several occasions in the second quarter. In character, they battled and trimmed the lead to 59-54 by halftime.

With their fans hopeful, Memphis did not start the third quarter well. Eleven seconds into it, Jackson picked up his fourth foul. Three minutes later, Brooks did the same.

Absorbing a run by the Warriors, the Grizzlies surged back within three (80-77) but they could not sustain the push and were down 15 (99-84) going into the final quarter.

Poole’s fourth-quarter ejection notwithstanding, Memphis could not climb back against a Golden State team that has been good at home (132) this season and very bad on the road (3-16).

“I don’t think there is a great reason for it,” said All-Star guard Klay Thompson, who had 24 points. “We

will win a lot of road games this year.

Our road record is not very good right now. There is a lot more games to play. I am not going to panic right now. We haven’t been whole yet. We have a lot to improve.”

So-called trash talk between the defending NBA champion Warriors and the Grizzlies has been ongoing since Golden State ended Memphis’ run last season. There were six technical fouls called in the game. The last was on Thompson for taunting Brooks as he lay on the floor.

“The refs let it happen,” said Brooks of Thompson’s trash-talking.

“It was happening all game…. It is wack to me. (Messing) up calls, putting the wrong guys on the free throw line. It was a circus. We should have had different refs.”

Golden State fans showed their lingering disdain for Brooks on every foul (five) and free throw (four of five).

Brooks (13 points, three rebounds, one assist, and five turnovers) echoed the assessment Jackson made about the game.

“We have to follow the game plan in the first half,” he said, adding, “It was a physical and hard game. We shot it bad and we are going to move on to the next game.”

The three-point differential was stark. The Warriors made 18 of 44 (40.9 percent), with Donte Divincenzo hitting his season-high and a game-high five of them as he totaled 19 points.

The Grizzlies made nine of 39 (23.1 percent). In his second game back from an extended injury absence, Memphis shooting guard Desmond Bane (nine points) has not yet regained his shooting touch. He made two of 13 shots and none of his seven three-pointers.

Memphis underclassmen finding a way to produce for surging Tigers

by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Memphis Tigers women’s basketball team is into the 2023 portion of their season and a large reason for their success has been the emergence of two young players – sophomore forward Hannah Riddick and freshman guard Tanquel Welch.

With the team on a three-game winning streak and sitting on an 8-5 record, the contributions from Welch and Riddick propelled the Tigers during a rough patch of games in early December.

In that time span, they fell to nationally ranked Indiana and South Carolina. Despite the setbacks, both players felt those games brought out the best in Memphis.

“Despite not getting the results that we may have wanted, I think that we showed we can play with any team we go against. We go into every contest thinking that we can win, and there’s no exception,” Reddick said.

Riddick’s rise into the starting lineup this season stemmed from last year’s play as the 2021-2022 season waned.

Her hustle and grit as a freshman earned her playing time in a stacked front court that included former Tigers Alana Davis and Tyler Frierson. With both individuals moving on via graduation, it was only natural that Riddick slide into the starting role Still, she knew head coach Katrina Merriweather wouldn’t give her anything.

That’s what made Riddick push even harder.

“I knew that my offensive game had to improve this offseason and I put my all into making sure I focused on it,” she said.

So far, her 2022-23 campaign has reaped the results of her off-season work. Riddick is shooting 41 percent from the field while averaging

six rebounds per game.

Merriweather envisioned Reddick’s emergence season, saying it was more about Riddick regaining her form after a mid-season injury.

“Hannah’s progression would’ve gotten her more playing time last season, but she needed to get healthy. Now she’s where she needs to be in terms of her development, and I’m excited,” Merriweather said.

Welch arrived at Memphis from North Central High School in Indiana, where she achieved success from a team and individual standpoint.

With the opportunity to develop behind one of the deepest guard lineups in the American Athletic Conference, Welch has retained the wisdom from veterans Jamirah Shutes, Madison Griggs, and Emani Jefferson.

“Maddie was the player I toured with when I visited the school, and she’s been key in helping me grow.

Also, Emani has been the best guard I’ve ever played against, and I have faced a lot of top-level competition,” Welch said.

The level of athletes Welch faces everyday in practice has benefitted her so far this season. She’s shooting 50 percent from the field, including 47 percent from the threepoint line, while possessing a 2 to 1 assist to turnover ratio.

Likely the point guard of the future, Welch soaks up knowledge from the Memphis coaches, knowing they want her to thrive on the court.

However, both Riddick and Welch marvel at the life lessons Merriweather has bestowed upon the team, which are more valuable than the on-court decisions.

“She’s taught us a lot about life, whether it comes to managing money, handling situations off the court, and just life skills as a whole.

She’s just a great woman to play for,” Riddick said.

Grizzlies lose – and look bad – to banged-up Suns

Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Grizzlies battles Deandre Ayton (left) and Mikel Bridges of the Suns.

Jackson only had six points as Memphis fell to Phoenix 125-108 on Tuesday night at FedExForum. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)

On an overall dismal night for Memphis, Ja Morant worked his way to 34 points, including a spectacular third quarter, as the Phoenix Suns dominated the Grizzlies at FedExForum.

Tanquel Welch arrived at Memphis from North Central High School in Indiana, where she achieved success from a team and individual standpoint.