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Former Judge Boyd taken into custody after bond is revoked

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In a reversal of fortune, Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Melissa Boyd was taken into custody after her bond was revoked for violating conditions of her release during a hearing at the Shelby County courthouse on Wednesday, March 27.

The suspended magistrate failed two court-ordered drug and alcohol tests on March 12 and March 15. She had been out on a $5,000 bond since Dec. 13. 

Her trial is slated to begin on April 24. She will remain in custody until it begins.

Boyd’s drug use first came to light during her brief time on the bench. She was elected in 2022.

A woman claiming to be her former campaign manager, Lashanta Rudd, first reported her use of cocaine and marijuana to the state’s judicial oversight board. Following the allegations, Boyd was accused of showing up at the woman’s home and verbally abused her. It was also reported in an affidavit that Boyd, 59, told her to “shut up” and “not mess with her,” while noting her position as a judge.

As a result, Boyd was indicted for harassment and coercing a witness. She also was ordered to seek substance abuse treatment. Eventually, it was completed at a Georgia facility. 

Boyd has claimed the two were once in a relationship. One of her lawyers also disputed that Rudd served as her campaign manager during Wednesday’s bond hearing.

Following the charges, the former prosecutor was also suspended from the bench in May 2023. She still draws nearly $17,000 a month in salary.

The Tennessee Board of Judicial Conduct has recommended her removal. However, that is the limit of their power. The panel previously reprimanded Boyd on Oct. 31, for falling to complete a court-ordered substance abuse evaluation.

Nevertheless, a Tennessee General Assembly Joint Ad Hoc committee took up the issue. The bipartisan group recommended her removal from office on March 14. House Joint Resolution 1138, which calls for the full House and Senate to weigh in on her removal. A vote by state legislators is set for April 4. The current legislative calendar runs out between April and May.

If lawmakers vote to remove Boyd, a temporary replacement could be named by Governor Bill Lee. Then again, a proposed amendment recently filed would eliminate the seat occupied by Boyd, along with another judicial seat in the Shelby County Circuit Court.

If Boyd isn’t removed and the seat survives, she could always choose to run again. But a criminal conviction could imperial her law license, rendering her ineligible to serve as a judge. 

Cohen announces funding for surveillance and accountability upgrades at MPD

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Bodycams and Overhead Street Cams.

As crime remains Priority No. 1 across city leadership, the Memphis Police Department is set to receive $1.9 million in federal funding to upgrade surveillance tools, along with officer equipment to increase their accountability and safety.

The department’s Sentinel Surveillance Cameras Project will receive $963,000 of the money. Blue light and officer-worn cameras and software updates will be purchased.

<br />Rep. Steve Cohen: “… for the first time in 10 years, new House rules have allowed me to direct federal spending of more than $11.7 million to projects and priorities that will improve the quality of life in our district.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/TSD Archives)
U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen

Congressman Steve Cohen announced the funding Tuesday, March 26, during a press conference in Memphis.

“This program has been instrumental in solving crimes. I had to think about Tyre Nichols in doing this because those lights show crime…committed upon Tyre Nichols,” said Cohen.

The additional blue light cameras will be posted in high-crime areas. The extra eyes are expected to help the MPD investigate stolen vehicles, for example. 

“There are certain zip codes that are considered high-crime zip codes. What we plan to do is take a deeper dive to what are the specific needs in those zip code areas, where we have the most frequency of crime,” said Davis.

It will be the seventh deployment of blue light cameras in Memphis.

“We can’t have enough technology. We don’t have enough manpower. So when you don’t have human resources, technology can be a force multiplier,” said MPD chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis. “What we don’t want to convey is that cameras are a panacea for crime.”

The remainder of the money will pay for equipment upgrades to improve officer safety.

BLACK MAYORS UNITED: Young invites other Black mayors to Memphis to collaborate on crime

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Black Mayors United: Mayor Paul Young has joined forces with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and others to create Black Mayors' Coalition on Crime.

In an unprecedented move to address the rising concerns of crime across the nation, Memphis Mayor Paul Young, in collaboration with the African American Mayors Association (AAMA), has unveiled the Black Mayors’ Coalition on Crime (BMCC).

And they’re meeting this week for the first time — here in Memphis.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to unify black mayors throughout the United States to devise and implement effective crime-fighting strategies. The coalition’s inaugural meeting is slated for March 27-28 in Memphis, drawing participation from 21 mayors and representatives from Southern states like Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina and Georgia.

There will also be representatives from cities in Arizona, Indiana and Washington, D.C. But the effort also has engaged the mayors of America’s two largest cities: Mayor Eric Adams of New York City and Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles.

“For the first time in history, we have an unprecedented number of black mayors in some of our biggest cities,” Young said in a statement. “Others, like myself, represent millions of Americans in small-to-medium and large-sized cities across the country.”

“Many of these leaders come from the communities most affected by crime, so they have a unique perspective on solving it,” he added.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams echoed the sentiment.

“Across our great and diverse country, there’s one thing that every city has in common: public safety is the prerequisite to prosperity,” Adams said in a press release. “As a former police officer, I know firsthand that public safety is not just about keeping people safe — it is also about making sure people feel safe.

“I applaud Mayor Young for convening the Black Mayors Coalition on Crime to have an honest conversation around protecting our cities and delivering peace of mind at a time when our communities need it most,” Adams said.

The two-day summit will be facilitated by Dr. Russell Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum, and promises to be a blend of keynote speeches and case study presentations. Highlighted initiatives like “Operation SCARLET” from Charlotte, NC, and “Operation Good” from Jackson, MS, will offer insights into successful crime reduction strategies.

Young campaigned on bringing a fresh and comprehensive approach to crime, and he’s been pounding that message since being sworn in Jan. 1. He attended a vigil commemorating the fatal 2022 beating of Tyre Nichols in January. In February, he made his rounds around the city on a listening tour.

With the coalition, he believes that through collaboration, mayors can forge a powerful collective voice that can spur significant policy changes and resource allocations to tackle crime effectively.

“The time is now for us to speak with one voice, to call for national and local policy change and funding, and to share our collective learnings to create the meaningful change that will reduce crime in all of our communities,” said Young.

While the BMCC currently focuses on black mayors, Young is open to contributions from any leader committed to addressing crime.

“My hope is that this will be the start of a broad ongoing national effort to find real solutions to this very complex issue,” he said. “I believe we can leverage our collective platforms to create change in the policies, laws, and resources needed to reverse the trend and heal our communities.

“We cannot wait.”

Phyllis Dickerson, CEO of the African American Mayors Association, expressed her support for the initiative, praising Mayor Young’s leadership.

“I welcome this initiative, and I am energized to see a new, young mayor step up in a leadership role to tackle this issue,” she said. “He has our full support, and I’m confident other mayors will join him.”

Rhodes College unveils plaza honoring NPHC Fraternities and Sororities

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Memphis’ Rhodes College became familiar stomping grounds this past weekend, after hosting the annual Black Students and Alumni Family Reunion beginning on Friday, March 23. With a calendar full of events, the three-day celebration capped with an alumni easter egg hunt.

However, it was the introduction of a National Pan-Hellenic Council Plaza on Saturday that left an indelible mark on the institution. 

“Our new NPHC plaza is a vitally important addition to our campus and a reflection of our commitment to ensuring that every student, and every graduate, feels fully welcome, supported, and included at the College,” said Rhodes College President Jennifer Collins.

Nine plaques representing the “Divine Nine” historic Black fraternities and sororities are featured within circular stonework. They include information about each organization’s history. Each lies in sequence to their founding. 

A current representative from each organization was on hand for the dedication.

The landmark is situated among footpaths that converge along the heart of the campus. Student members of the organizations were involved in the design, fundraising and construction. 

“Today, we are the navigators of this historical legacy,” said Asya Bray, a Zeta Phi Beta sister and chair of the NPHC Plaza planning committee. “While celebrating the historically Black sororities and fraternities, we continue to invest in the next generation of Rhodes NPHC.” 

She was joined in the two-year effort by fellow senior Erin Parker, who is President of the Rhodes College National Pan-Hellenic Council.

The umbrella council serves the nine historic organizations represented in the plaza, otherwise known as the Black Greek Letter Organizations. It is the first NPC’s stamp on the campus.

As well as commemorating Black Greek life, it will also serve as a gathering place for Black students currently studying at Rhodes. The plaza will also welcome prospective Black students to the school.

Along with the NPHC, Interfraternity Council Organizations (IFC) also have houses on the Rhodes College campus. 

Iota Phi Theta or Omega Psi Phi chapters are not currently present at Rhodes.

Donations from Rhodes alumni, including Johnny B. Moore, paid for the signage. Now living in Nashville, the Melrose High graduate is currently serving as President of Tennessee Region at Truist.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor and celebrate the Divine Nine with these plots, and we are very grateful to our students and alumni who helped make this project a reality,” said Collins.

In addition to plenty of food and drink, other highlights from the weekend included a student-alumni panel discussion on how campus life for Black students has evolved at Rhodes throughout the years.

The private liberal arts school changed its name from Southwestern College in 1984. It was renamed after former President Peyton Rhodes. African American students were first admitted during his 16-year tenure that ended in 1965.

Civil Rights Museum’s ‘The Resilience’ Symposium tackles police violence and the pain left in its wake

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The National Civil Rights Museum’s final event in a thought-provoking series, “The Resilience” Symposium, took place on Friday, March 22nd at the Renasant Convention Center in downtown Memphis, embodying the enduring spirit of the Black community.

Moderated by CNN political commentator Symone Sanders-Townsend, the symposium brought to the forefront discussions on police reform, community resilience, and the path from pain to purpose.

CNN’s Symone Sanders engages with social and political commentator Dr. Michael Eric Dyson. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

The opening panel titled “From Pain to Purpose” brought together family members of nationally recognized victims of violence—RowVaughn and Rodney Wells, the mother and stepfather of Tyre Nichols; Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd; Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin; and Gwen Carr, the mother of Eric Garner.

In a moment that encapsulated the pain and stress she’s endured, RowVaughn Wells encouraged anyone who needs therapy to get it. She talked about why it’s hard to heal: “It hurts to turn on the TV and see my son’s face every day,” she said.

Wells mentions she and others are working on a national Tyre Nichols-George Floyd bill aimed at fighting police abuse and misconduct. She closed her remarks with a bit of truth: “They are not killing white kids like they are killing black.” 

The Resilience’s second panel brought together high powered guests for a lively conversation. Pictured: NCRM PR Manager Connie Dyson; Dr. Michael Eric Dyson; CNN’s Symone Sanders, who moderated; Dr. Michelle Taylor of the Shelby County Health Department; Russell Wigginton, NCRM President; Memphis Mayor Paul Young; NAACP National President Derrick Johnson; and Tennessee State Sen. Raumesh Akbari. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

The discussion deepened as a distinguished panel of local and national leaders took the stage, including State Rep. Raumesh Akbari, author Michael Eric Dyson, NAACP President Derrick Johnson, Shelby County Health Department Director Michelle Taylor, and Memphis Mayor Paul Young.

Focused on the multifaceted issue of gun violence, Mayor Young highlighted the critical challenge facing Memphis, with 398 murders since January of this year alone.

“Problems cannot be solved in the board room,” Young said. “There is a sense of hopelessness. We need a call to action, nationally and locally. Every system needs to be engaged.”

National Civil Rights Museum CEO Russell Wigginton makes opening remarks. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

The symposium emphasized systemic change, with NAACP President Derrick Johnson and others underscoring the necessity for legislative and societal shifts. Director Taylor highlighted the impact of unextended Medicaid on child poverty and violence in Shelby County.

NAACP President Derrick Johnson agreed that system change is necessary. Sen. Akbari mentioned a need for legislation that repeals gun controls for higher crimes.

Memphis Health Department Director Michelle Taylor spoke about the fact that the
Tennessee State Legislature has not extended Medicaid in Tennessee since 2014 which has
resulted in a $20 million loss of federal dollars. She pointed out that Shelby County has a child poverty rate of 30 percent, and not receiving that funding affects both children in poverty and the rate of violence.

Michael Eric Dyson provocatively noted, “The real religion in America is whiteness,” and described the refusal of Medicaid funds as “invisible genocide.”

Speakers like Eric Cumberbatch of the Center for Policing Equity and Rashawn Ray of the Brookings Institute addressed the critical need for addressing both conscious and unconscious racism, and the importance of mental health support for police officers.

The event, titled “The Resilience,” was the culmination of a series designed to gather leaders, policymakers, and activists, alongside survivor families, to forge actionable solutions against police violence and the injustices burdening Black and Brown communities.

As “The Resilience” Symposium concluded, it stood as a powerful testament to the collective will to address and overcome the systemic challenges of police violence and racial injustice, echoing a clear call for action and unity in the face of adversity.

MARCH MADNESS IN MEMPHIS: Houston Survives Overtime Thriller Against Texas A&M to Advance

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With aspirations of reaching the Final Four, top-seeded Houston faced a determined Texas A&M, setting the stage for a game that would resonate far beyond the hardwood. Ultimately, Houston edged out Texas A&M in a hard-fought overtime victory, 100-95.

In a nail-biting second-round clash at the FedExForum, the journey from Houston to College Station, TX, may span just 95 miles, but the stakes couldn’t have been higher. The Cougars initially looked to dominate, establishing a 27-20 lead mid-first half.

Texas A&M battled back to force overtime against Houston, but came up short in the extra period. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

However, the Aggies rallied, capturing a one-point lead with just over three minutes remaining in the half. Houston responded with an 11-5 run to close the half ahead, 43-38, capitalizing on the Aggies’ missed opportunities at the free-throw line.

As the game neared its conclusion, Houston seemed poised for a decisive victory, leading by 12 points with just under two minutes to play. Yet, Texas A&M’s resilience shone through as they mounted a 17-5 run, culminating in a buzzer-beating three-pointer by Anderson Garcia to force overtime.

Houston advances to the Sweet 16 and a highly anticipated matchup with Duke. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

Overtime saw Houston display composure and precision, making crucial shots and free throws to secure the win, despite four starters fouling out. The bench’s crucial contributions underscored the depth and determination of the Cougars’ squad.

Leading the scoring for the Aggies (21-15) was Tyrese Radford with 27 points, supported by Wade Taylor IV and Manny Obaseki. Despite their efforts and a significant rebounding advantage, missed free throws proved costly for Texas A&M.

Houston (32-4) showcased their offensive prowess with Emanuel Sharp lighting up the scoreboard with 30 points. Key contributions from L J Cryer, Jamal Shead, and J’Wan Roberts propelled the Cougars, who excelled from the free-throw line and field.

Reflecting on the game’s tense moments and the performance of teammate Ryan Elvin, Jamal Shead expressed his surprise at a missed free throw, praising Elvin’s dedication and work ethic. “He works harder than we work… That’s the guy that we trust and is a pillar of our culture,” Shead noted, emphasizing Elvin’s role in the team’s success.

Cougars’ head coach Kelvin Sampson lauded his team’s resilience and acknowledged Texas A&M’s improvement since their last encounter. “Texas A&M is a lot better… Those guys are really good. There’s a reason why they were dominating the SEC at the end of the year,” Sampson stated, highlighting the competitive spirit of both teams.

Looking ahead, Houston is set to face the Duke Blue Devils in a highly anticipated matchup in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, March 29. As the Cougars continue their pursuit of the Final Four, their victory over Texas A&M will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to their tenacity and team spirit.

MARCH MADNESS IN MEMPHIS: Clemson Upsets Baylor in a Thrilling NCAA Second Round Match

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Baylor battled Clemson into the final minutes, but Clemson came out on top in the NCAA Regionals at FedExForum on March. 24. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

The drama of the NCAA tournament intensified during the second session of the second round, with the Clemson Tigers clashing with the Baylor Bears, and ultimately getting the win, 72-64.

The matchup, filled with first-half drama, surpassed the excitement of the first four games of Round 1 combined, as both teams aimed for a coveted spot in the second weekend of the NCAA tournament.

With the win, Clemson advances to the Sweet 16, where they will face the Arizona Wildcats. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

From the onset, Clemson was determined to make a statement against Baylor. The Tigers exhibited exceptional shooting skills, boasting a 52 percent success rate in the first half and maintaining the lead for the majority of the time. Chase Hunter’s three-pointer at the buzzer capped off a strong first half for Clemson, leading 35-25. Hunter contributed 11 points in the half, with the team hitting 6 of 11 from beyond the arc.

Conversely, Baylor, known for its three-point shooting prowess, struggled to find its rhythm, making only 3 of 9 three-point attempts and shooting 33 percent overall in the first half. Ja’Kobe Walter led the Bears with 10 points before halftime.

Clemson seemed to be cruising in the second half, holding a 61-51 lead with just over five minutes remaining. However, an 11-3 run by Baylor narrowed the gap to 64-62 with 2:11 left on the clock. With the game hanging in the balance, Walters missed two crucial free throws with 36 seconds remaining, allowing Clemson to secure the win with Jalen Bridges’ free throws in the final seconds.

Clemson (23-11) saw significant contributions from its starters, with Hunter finishing the game with 20 points. Joseph Girard III added 13 points, while PJ Hall and Ian Schieffelin each tallied 11.

Clemson’s head coach Brad Bromwell expressed his affection for his team, highlighting the players’ character and the strong culture within the program. “I just love this team. They’re really good players but they’re better people,” Bromwell remarked, emphasizing the difficulty of concluding the season.

Despite a better shooting performance in the second half, Baylor (24-11) struggled overall, shooting just 39 percent for the game. Ray J Dennis led the Bears with 27 points, followed by Walter with 20 points and Bridges with 10.

Reflecting on the season’s end, Baylor’s head coach Scott Drew shared his pride and gratitude for his team’s representation of Baylor basketball and the community.

Walter, addressing his missed free throws, acknowledged the disappointment but praised his team’s unity and resilience throughout the season.

Looking ahead, Clemson is set to face the Arizona Wildcats in the Sweet Sixteen of the Western Region in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 28, as they continue their remarkable journey in the NCAA tournament.

MARCH MADNESS IN MEMPHIS: Two Texas Teams advance in South Bracket

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In the NCAA South Regionals in Memphis, two teams from Texas impressed and advanced to the next round. Here are the recaps:

Texas A&M 98, Nebraska 83

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the NCAA tournament’s second session in Memphis, the Texas A&M Aggies faced off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Despite the overwhelming support for Nebraska from the fans, Texas A&M’s robust defense paved the way for a 98-83 victory, propelling them into the second round. The Aggies’ formidable rebounding prowess was on full display as they outmatched the Cornhuskers 40-28 on the boards.

Aggies’ head coach Buzz Peterson celebrated his inaugural NCAA Tournament win with Texas A&M, reflecting on the team’s journey and emphasizing the importance of direction and resilience. “I think we’re going in the right direction. This is our 29th week, and there’s been a lot of volatility. But I think there’s been great resolve and great resiliency within the group,” Peterson remarked, highlighting the balance between winning and the transformative impact on players’ lives.

Leading the charge for the Aggies (21-14) were Wade Taylor Jr. with 25 points, Manny Obaseki with 22 points, and Tyrese Radford, who notched a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Their efficient shooting (49 percent from the field and 13 of 23 three-pointers) and dominance in the paint (44 points) underscored a well-rounded performance.

On the other side, the Nebraska Cornhuskers (23-11), making their first NCAA tournament appearance in 11 years, were spearheaded by Brice Williams with 24 points and Keisei Tominaga with 21 points. Head coach Fred Hoiberg expressed optimism for the future, emphasizing the foundational season that has set the stage for continued success and the imperative to sustain it.

Houston 86, Longwood 46

In the day’s final game, the Houston Cougars dismantled the Longwood Lancers 86-46, showcasing why they are among the favorites to win the championship. Houston’s head coach Kelvin Sampson praised the team’s culture and discipline, which have been integral to their success. “I never mention the seeding. I just talked about how we had to play,” Sampson stated, reflecting on the team’s focus and preparation.

The Cougars (22-11) were led by L J Cryer and Damon Dunn, each scoring 17 points, with significant contributions from Emanuel Sharp and Jamal Snead. Their dominant rebounding and sharpshooting (59 percent from the field and 11 of 23 from three-point range) were key factors in their commanding win.

Despite the effort, Longwood’s season ended with a tough loss. Coach Griff Aldrich commended Houston’s level of play and expressed pride in his team’s journey to the tournament and the resilience they’ve shown.

Looking ahead, the stage is set for an intriguing battle as Houston and Texas A&M prepare for their second showdown this season on Sunday at 7:40 pm, following their initial meeting in Houston which saw the Cougars emerge victorious (70-66).

This NCAA tournament session in Memphis has undoubtedly set the tone for exciting basketball, showcasing teams and players ready to etch their names into March Madness history.

MARCH MADNESS IN MEMPHIS: Baylor and Clemson Dominate in NCAA Tournament Opener

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In the kickoff to the NCAA tournament’s Memphis session, the expected Madness took a backseat as Baylor and Clemson sailed to comfortable victories. Here are recaps from Day 1 of the NCAA Regionals in Memphis.

Baylor cruised to an easy win over Colgate at the NCAA Regionals in Memphis on Friday, March 22. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

Baylor 92, Colgate 67

Baylor, holding the number three seed, left no room for surprises as they dominated Colgate with a 92-67 win in the day’s first game.

From the outset, Baylor asserted their superiority, taking a commanding 20-point lead by halftime and shutting down any hopes for a Colgate comeback. The Bears’ performance marked their sixth consecutive opening game victory in the NCAA tournament, a testament to the program’s consistency and head coach Scott Drew’s 21-year leadership.

Colgate, entering as the fourteenth seed, closed their season with a respectable 25-10 record. Despite a solid shooting performance at 46 percent from the field, Colgate found themselves outmatched. Head Coach Matt Langel praised Baylor’s execution, admitting the challenge in countering Baylor’s shooting prowess and strategic play.

Baylor’s victory was fueled by standout performances from Jalen Bridges, with 23 points and five rebounds, and Ja’Kobe Walter, adding 19 points. The team’s impressive 63 percent shooting in the first half set the tone for the rest of the game, with the Bears finishing at 57 percent and hitting 16 three-pointers.

Clemson rolled to an easy win over New Mexico. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

Clemson 77, New Mexico 56

In the day’s second game, Clemson thwarted any upset hopes by defeating New Mexico 77-56, advancing to the tournament’s second round. Despite a competitive first half, Clemson pulled away, leading by 14 points at halftime. Clemson Head Coach Brad Brownell expressed pride in his team’s spirit and resilience, looking forward to the next challenge.

New Mexico ended their season with a 26-10 record, struggling from the field at just 30 percent. Despite outrebounding Clemson, the Lobos’ cold shooting day proved costly. Coach Richard Pitino acknowledged the difficulty in overcoming Clemson’s defensive discipline and size.

Clemson’s victory was led by Chase Hunter’s 21 points and six assists, with significant contributions from Ian Schieffelin and P.J. Hall. The team’s performance from beyond the arc and at the free-throw line underscored a well-rounded offensive effort.

Looking ahead, the stage is set for a compelling matchup as Clemson and Baylor will face off on Sunday at the FedExForum. With both teams coming off strong opening wins, anticipation is high for this second-round clash.

Memphians among demonstrators in ‘Tennessee for All’ protest on Capitol steps

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Several speakers addressed Tennesse For All's core ideals of supporting education over corporate interests and demanding big corporations pay a fair tax rate. (Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Four buses – Two from Memphis and one each from Chattanooga and Huntsville, Tenn.  – arrived at the Tennessee Legislature in Nashville on Wednesday, March 12, loaded with members of Tennessee For All. 

Founded by Pastor Keith Caldwell, TN4All.org serves as coordinator for the Blue Oval Good Neighbors group which was formed after several town hall meetings were hosted in the area.

Rev. Caldwell, pastor of Centenary Baptist Church in Memphis, stated that corporations pay less than 10 percent in taxes while “ordinary people” pay 18 to 22 percent. That means, “Working class people are paying more than corporations.”

Bennett Foster, co-founder and president of TN4All, said “Elected leaders were asked to work together to ensure that corporate development within the State benefits three key areas, including education, transportation and infrastructure.”  

The organization also held town hall meetings in Brownsville and Mason where land owned by Black farmers had been taken away by eminent domain for corporation development. 

TN4All is also lobbying state legislators to end the grocery tax. The bill is sponsored by Democrats and moving through the legislative process, said Bennett, “but we have had some road blocks.”  

To learn more, visit tn4all.org – or their Tennessee For All page on Facebook.