WATCH: Mayor Paul Young makes case for proposed tax increase during 100-Day Address

By

-

04/17/2024

Now roughly 100-days into his first term as Mayor, Paul Young continues to celebrate his administration’s early victories, acknowledge the setbacks, and ask Memphians to get involved in making the city a better, safer place to live.

And with a transparency not often seen in politics, Young announced that when he presents his budget to the City Council next week, it will include a request for a tax increase.

Hundreds of Memphians — police, council members, community leaders and citizens — filled the lower level of Mount Vernon Church in Southwest Memphis for Young’s 100-day address on Tuesday evening.

In his opening remarks, he ran down the highlights of his tenure so far, including the recent Black Mayor’s Coalition on Crime meeting in Memphis, the latest data on trash pickup and blight control, and other early victories.

But he also acknowledged the “hits” Memphis keeps taking, including a shooting he learned about at Douglass Park literally minutes before he took the stage. He paused to honor the men and women of the Memphis Police Department, and requesting a moment of silence for Officer Joseph McKinney, who was killed in the line of duty last week.

And throughout his speech, Young was clearly seeking to inspire, painting a vision of Memphis that’s mostly free from litter and neighborhoods with high-speed fiber optic internet access.

“Envision a transit system that effectively connects residents with jobs, childcare, healthcare, and groceries,” he said. “A system where a single card allows you to access buses, micro-transit options, vibrant community centers, and your local library to check out materials, content, and classes.”

But Young also knew he had to ask for something as well.

“But we really, simply and plainly, need more revenue,” Young said. “As much as I don’t want to be the one standing here and saying that, I also don’t want to be the one to let you down — to allow you to live in a neighborhood where ‘getting by’ is the standard.

“Our current budget keeps us where we are. And we’re good at getting by,” Young continued. “But I think it’s time for us to step into a reality that allows us to flourish. When I go to City Council next week to present our budget, I’m going to ask for a tax increase.

“I’m putting it out there straight, no lying, so you can hear directly from me,” he added. “I’d rather not ask. But I believe it’s the right thing for our city.”

Young announced a number of other initiatives:

Here are the key announcements from Mayor Paul Young’s 100 Day address organized with brief explanations for each initiative:

New Public Safety Positions: The addition of two high-level public safety roles including a public safety advisor to the mayor and a chief strategist for public safety, focusing on data-driven approaches and community safety efforts.
Establishment of a Police Foundation: A new foundation to enhance law enforcement resources and community policing initiatives, announced in collaboration with the Memphis City Council and the Greater Memphis Chamber.
$50 Million Challenge Grant: A significant funding boost for community safety and development, with a national foundation providing a challenge grant to be matched by local donations, aiming for a total of $100 million.
Data Sharing and Collaboration Agreements: Initiatives to improve coordination and data sharing among local law enforcement, judicial systems, and educational institutions to better target crime prevention and intervention.
Reduction of Crime Goals: A commitment to reducing violent crime by 10% annually, supported by new strategies and the public safety dashboard to be unveiled in a weekly newsletter.
SEPED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) Grants: Announced a partnership with EDGE for providing $1 million in SEPED grants over four years to help businesses implement safety improvements.

But as he closed out, Young made a plea for HUMAN resources as well — people to roll up their sleeves and stay upbeat even in the face of depressing news.

“When the world hears about us, I want them to think of black wealth, culture, arts, and excellence,” he said. “I’m going to ask you, the residents of Memphis, to help keep part of that culture here. Stay in Memphis and help us continue the work of making our city better.”

Specifically, Young admonished young people who may feel like the grass is greener in other cities to stay home and nurture the grass right here.

“If you’re a young person thinking your talents will be better served elsewhere, reconsider because Memphis needs you,” he pleaded. “We need you to be the future of tech, transit, and workforce development. We need you to make medical breakthroughs and platinum records. We need you to open restaurants and retail shops, to join boards, and to use your voices for good. We need you to mentor, give back, and run for office.

“Creating the Memphis we all want to see is going to take everybody,” he said. “I firmly believe that we’re going to look back at 2024 and say this is when the change happened.

“We keep getting hit with negative news, but instead of becoming defeated, we become more determined,” he said. “Let’s go out and do it.”

After the speech, Young met with media:

From its inception, Africa in April has been about the village’s children

By

Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

-

04/17/2024

0

Drummer — 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 2022 Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival was vibrant with children, an indication that its original intent has taken root.

“I was at the gate where so many children came in,” said Executive Director Dr. David Acey. “There is never a charge for the younger ones, but I told many of the teens to just come on it because it was so wonderful seeing our children come out to the festival.”

For four-year-old Ayden Christopher, there were two things that made his first visit to Africa in April memorable: the African drums and superbubble shooter toys. When asked what he liked most about the festival, Ayden answered, “I like my new friends and all the bubbles.”

Children and teens were seen having bubble-shooting battles on the grass in the middle of Church Park. Ayden and his “new friends” screamed and ran, dodging bubble clouds and shooting back.

Youngsters gravitated to the African drums, walking right up and trying their hand at beating them. Ayden made quite the haul during his time at the festival, leaving with a drum, two bubble shooters, a light-up sword, and memories made with “new friends.”

Stacy Ragston, daughter of the late Memphis singer, Ruby Wilson, brought her grandchildren to Africa in April. She said the outing was their “back to happy” after the pandemic. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

“Children are really what this is all about,” said Stacey Ragston, daughter of the late Memphis singer, Ruby Wilson.

“I brought my grandchildren because I want them to see Africa in April and experience their culture,” said Ragston. “Children have been running and playing all day. It’s just so good to see them outside again. This is our ‘back to happy’ from a pandemic that robbed us of so much.”

Mother of twins, Rosalyn Gates, gloried in the warmth of “village” and “community.” She stored away glimpses of her 5-year-old girls running in the grass with other children, shooting cascades of bubbles.

“Normally, when I take the girls out somewhere, I am frantically looking after them every moment,” said Gates. “But I can see them playing with other children, and I know their screams and laughter. I wanted to show my girls African culture, but they are getting more than just an education.

“Older adults are looking (after) the children. It feels like a village. It feels like community. We are not strangers here, but neighbors.”

Children being children at the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival. (Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

According to organizers of the 35th Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, an estimated 30,000 were in attendance during the five-day event. This year, the Republic of Malawi was honored.

“When we first started, there was only a vision,” said Acey. “We wanted the festival in spring, the time of renewal and rebirth. We wanted our people to be educated about where they came from. So, we honor African countries. We had no money, just a dream. And 35 years later, we see the village manifested. There is no village without the children.”

The celebration was set in historic Robert R. Church Park in downtown Memphis, April 20-24.

Mbyesey Kah, a vendor selling bubble shooters and light-up swords, did well with his variety of children’s toys. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

Mbyesey Kah, the vendor selling bubble shooters and light-up swords, did very well with his variety of children’s toys.

“This is my sixth year at Africa in April,” said Kah. “Business is always quite good, but there is something more. Such a spirit of unity, something I really love. I am from Senegal, but my business is in Atlanta now.

“In all of my years at Africa in April, I have never seen so many children. We are running out of all the toys. Watching the children makes me happy. It reminds me of our village at home.”

For Acey, the festival was different this year in a very significant way.

“The festival has two very important elements of African life,” said Acey. “The village and the marketplace – they are essential to African culture. Our vendors and the children have created both. But our children are the heart of the village. I will remember 2022 as the year of the village. It is such a beautiful thing.”

Building Bridges: Memphis Youth Empowerment Organization Prepares Leaders for Today and Tomorrow

By

Candace A. Gray

-

04/16/2024

0

Bridges Trust Fall — Bridge Builders, a youth empowerment program, teaches life lessons through fun exercises. (Courtesy Photo)

In the heart of Memphis stands BRIDGES, a beacon of hope and transformation for the city’s youth. Its signature program, Bridge Builders, established nearly four decades ago, has evolved from a youth service organization to a dynamic force for social change.

The program empowers young people to become leaders in their respective communities and the Memphis community at-large. And BRIDGES is making room to engage and empower even more young people.

Mario Hendrix: Mario Hendrix is a triple threat member of the Bridge Builders community, having been a participant, now serving as the VP of Programs; his children are also Bridge Builders. (Courtesy Photo)

“We believe that every young person has the potential to make a difference,” said Mario Hendrix, vice president of programs for BRIDGES. “Our mission is to provide them with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.”

With more than 800 applicants to date, and 660+ students currently engaged in its year-round Bridge Builders program, BRIDGES is creating a space for students to connect, collaborate, and effect change, its three main tenets. However, the organization has set its sights even higher, aiming to enroll 1,000 students in the program this year, returning to pre-pandemic levels.

This year’s COLLABORATE program deadline is Friday, April 19th. Interested 6-11th grade applicants across the city can apply here.

Bridge Builders, a youth empowerment program, teaches life lessons through fun exercises. (Courtesy Photo)

“We’ve seen firsthand the impact that BRIDGES can have on young people’s lives,” said Dana Wilson, executive director for BRIDGES, who just recently announced her retirement, effective December 2024. “Our goal is to reach as many students as possible and empower them to become agents of change in their communities.”

Wilson works alongside a Youth Advisory Board comprised of Bridge Builders who assist with strategic planning, programming and even interviewing staff. There is also a Youth Justice Action Committee (YJAC) that immerses students in the justice system. The sky is the limit, especially now that we’re on the other side of the global pandemic.

Reflecting on the challenges posed by the pandemic, Hendrix emphasizes the importance of in-person, experiential learning opportunities, especially given the diversity in learning abilities.

“Technology is a valuable tool, but it can never replace the face-to-face interactions that are foundational to our programming,” Hendrix said.

At the core of Bridge Builders’ success is its youth-empowerment initiatives, which give students a voice, build their confidence, and connect them to organizations that are inciting change.

One of the life lessons Bridge Builders learn is teamwork in order to solve problems.
(Courtesy Photo)

Students are learning they are valuable members of the community, while learning soft skills, like conflict resolution and respect, essential for problem-solving and effective communication.

One of the hallmarks of Bridge Builders’ programming is its emphasis on honest conversations and vulnerability. “We encourage students to express their emotions openly and explore the root causes of social issues,” said Hendrix. “It is through these conversations that real change can occur.”

Hendrix attributes some of BRIDGES’ success to its approach of not “talking AT” the students, but rather listening to them. Even fun activities often lead to poignant questions that drill deeper into community issues. Consequently, youth leaders feel their opinions and input are valuable.

Building the Future

With Bridge Builders’ 40th anniversary in sight, Hendrix has big expectations about the future.

“We’ve come a long way since our humble beginnings,” said Hendrix. “But our work is far from over. We remain committed to empowering the next generation of leaders and building a brighter, more inclusive Memphis.”

A recent $1 million donation from the McKenzie Scott Foundation is making that future even brighter. The donation will enable BRIDGES to provide even more from a programming standpoint, and to an even broader audience.

“We look at the needs of the students and how we can satisfy them, with a goal of providing more access for students, and even more programming opportunities,” said Hendrix. “Additionally, we’re launching our Youth Action Center, where students and adults can learn to be partners, find their voice and receive training to be even better community advocates and leaders.”

Looking ahead, Hendrix envisions a future where BRIDGES continues to amplify youth voices, foster leadership, and promote diversity appreciation.

“Our goal is to create a community where every young person feels valued and supported,” he said. “With each new student welcomed into the BRIDGES family, we take another step towards that vision.”

As he prepares his team for growth, Hendrix wants to set the record straight.

“You don’t have to be a straight-A student to be a Bridge Builder,” said Hendrix. “We want to empower those who are NOT already on a leadership track. ALL are welcome and can learn something to help them become community leaders.”

For more information about BRIDGES, visit bridgesusa.org.

Memphis Area Legal Services loses $1.7 million in grant funding;

By

James Coleman

-

04/16/2024

0

Untitled-2 (2) — Memphis Area Legal Services

Memphis’ main provider of civil legal services for its underserved community will lose their principal source of funding – around $1.7 million – after a congressionally-financed organization concluded Memphis Area Legal Services is no longer up to the task.

MALS was informed of Legal Services Corporation’s decision, along with its plans to shift its financial support to Jackson, Tenn. in a correspondence on April 5.

“MALS has not shown an ability to improve program operations, stabilize the program from continued declines in both services and funding, or engage in best practices for effectively and efficiently providing civil legal services under the grant,” wrote LSC president Ron Flagg.

The deadline to submit transition plans to West Tennessee Legal Services and finalize services is Friday, April 26. The Jackson-based firm will do its best to fill the gap and will begin to pick up the extra workload on July 1.

“We look forward to working closely with MALS during this transition period. Suffice to say, our commitment to our Jackson-area clients remains as strong as ever, and we look forward to being of service to clients in the greater Memphis region,” said WTLS Deputy Director Caitlin Hakim in a statement.

Furthermore, the letter states the firm doesn’t “meet the criteria” to continue to receive the grant. In addition to LSC’s standards, it also includes the American Bar Association’s yardstick.

According to The Daily Memphian, MALS chairman Brian Heim confirmed the letter.

MALS provides civil legal services for individuals and families facing foreclosure, eviction or homelessness. It also handles cases related to domestic violence, denial of health care or assistance, consumer fraud and predatory lending.

The lion’s share of the firm’s clients – 80 percent in 2022 – are women.

However, MALS case closures are also in decline.

The same year, the firm closed 1,625 cases, compared to 4,062 closed cases in the Jackson office. It isn’t just a short term trend, either. Over the past five years, MALS closures have dropped in half.

Fundraising efforts and staffing stalled also. As a consequence, the firm’s reliance on federal dollars increased.

MALS has been under the interim direction of Judge Loyce Lambert-Ryan since February. The former Shelby County General Sessions Court justice replaced executive director Cindy Ettinghoff, who left the post voluntarily.

U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Memphis, is expected to discuss the matter with LSC brass in Washington, D.C. today.

Legal Services Corporation is a seeking $1.8 billion for fiscal year 2025 – the same year MALS can reapply for funding. Grants cover a six-month period. MALS received its last infusion on Jan. 1.

Congress established LCS in 1974 to provide legal aid for civil cases to people who could not afford representation. It currently funds 131 nonprofit legal aid programs.

MALS was established shortly after Martin Luther King’s assassination in 1968 by then Burch, Porter & Johnson attorney Mike Cody.

The last city to have funding pulled was Detroit, five years ago.

WEATHERS: The Mental Health Crisis in Urban Schools: A Call for Action

By

Curtis Weathers

-

04/15/2024

0

Mental-Health — Kids are going through a lot.

When you talk to educators who are on the front lines in our schools, you can’t help but sense the mental anguish they all suffer with on a daily basis, especially in our urban schools. The emotional stress at every level seems overwhelming at times.

The mental health crisis in our nation’s K -12 schools is a real and troubling phenomenon and has, in many places, reached epidemic proportions, with countless students, teachers, and administrators battling anxiety, depression, trauma, and other psychological challenges that can profoundly impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being.

The severity and scope of this crisis cannot be overstated.

K-12 teachers are increasingly feeling the impact of student mental health issues in their classrooms. As the prevalence of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges among students continues to rise, teachers are often on the front lines of identifying and supporting students in distress.

This surge in mental health challenges is not a new phenomenon but has been exacerbated by the disruptions of the pandemic, the pressures of social media, and an overwhelming focus on academic performance.

Mental health challenges, of course, can significantly affect academic performance. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students with mental health problems are more likely to have lower grades, higher absenteeism rates, and are at a greater risk of dropping out of school.

In a report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in six youth ages 6-17 in the U.S. experience a mental health disorder each year, and suicide has become the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10-34. These statistics underscore the urgent need for schools, communities, and policymakers to prioritize mental health support and intervention as a critical component of K-12 education.

In addition, an estimated 31.9% of adolescents aged 13-18 have an anxiety disorder, while 13.3% have major depressive episodes.

But this surge in mental health challenges isn’t just a statistic, it disrupts classrooms, hinders students’ ability to learn, and potentially leads to tragic outcomes.

I speak with teachers daily, and many of them feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to handle the complex mental health needs of their students. The emotional labor of supporting students in crisis, coupled with the demands of teaching and the lack of sufficient mental health resources in many schools, can create a challenging and, quite frankly, unsustainable environment for educators.

So, what’s the answer?

There’s no single, easy answer to the complex problem of mental health and its impact on K-12 education. However, to combat this crisis in our nation’s schools, a multi-pronged, proactive approach is crucial.

Proactive mental health support and early intervention ensure that students, staff, and teachers have the resources and support they need to succeed both academically and professionally.

In my research, I found several school systems across the country that have implemented notable initiatives to address mental health issues. One such example is the Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) in Maryland. BCPS has taken a proactive and comprehensive approach to support the mental well-being of its students and staff.

For example, BCPS has partnered with local mental health organizations to provide a wide range of services, including family therapy, individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, family therapy, and community-based clinics.

The district has trained its staff in trauma-informed practices to better understand and support students who have experienced adverse childhood experiences and chronic stress.
BCPS has implemented restorative practices as an alternative to traditional disciplinary measures, focusing on building relationships, repairing harm, and creating a positive school climate.

The district has also prioritized the mental health of its staff by offering wellness programs, employee assistance services, and professional development opportunities related to self-care and stress management.

The district actively engages families and community partners in its mental health initiatives, hosting workshops, events, and outreach programs to raise awareness.

While the district’s model is not perfect and continues to face challenges, it serves as a promising example of a school district taking a holistic, systemic approach to address mental health issues in an urban educational setting.

By prioritizing mental wellness in the educational system, we can support students’ academic success, overall well-being, and ability to thrive. Students equipped with coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills are better prepared to manage their academics and the challenges in their lives.

For our teachers and staff, supporting mental health reduces job-related stress and decreases the risk of leaving the profession, which these days is immensely important.
Prioritizing mental well-being contributes to a greater sense of fulfillment and motivation for educators. When teachers feel well, they are better equipped to create an effective teaching and learning environment for their students.

Given the escalation in mental health challenges among urban students and teachers, we must conclude that mental health is no longer merely a concern in this setting but a critical and transformative dimension of modern education. Schools can no longer focus merely on academics without addressing students’ emotional needs because those needs directly impact learning success.

This necessitates rethinking traditional educational models, investing in mental health resources, and training educators to understand and support mental well-being, not just as an add-on but as a fundamental element for achieving educational goals.

Grizzlies’ strange, unlikely, highly unpredictable season comes to an end with loss to Denver Nuggets, 126-111

By

Terry Davis

-

04/14/2024

0

GG Jackson at the rim against the Denver Nuggets. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/Tri-State Defender)

The final game of the season – one no Grizzly fan, player, or coach wanted – finally came to an end at FedExForum with the Denver Nuggets playing. The Nuggets are battling for playoff seeding, while some Grizzlies players are fighting for their professional livelihood. Denver would defeat Memphis 126-111.

For the second straight game, the Grizzlies had 13 players on the injured list. The remaining available players continue to play hard. The Nuggets held a three-point advantage after the first quarter (29-26).

Jamal Murray, recently returned after his own injury, had a good first half. He had 19 points and played a key role in a 9-0 run later in the second quarter to pull away from the Grizzlies. The Nuggets took a 66-54 lead into halftime. GG Jackson did his best to keep the Grizzlies close, scoring 20 points in the first half.

The Nuggets are coming off a disappointing loss against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night. A win over the Spurs would have solidified their position for the number one seed in the Western Conference. Even with a win over the Grizzlies on the final day of the season, they’ll need a lot of help to get that top seed.

Nuggets head coach Michael Malone must have given his team some encouraging words at halftime, because they came out on fire in the opening minutes of the third. They quickly built a 20-point lead (76-56) with 8:12 left in the quarter. The Nuggets led at the end of the third quarter (94-75).

On what he said to the team at halftime, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone noted, “Phoenix is up 14 points. If you want to get the number two seed, go out and get it. The starting group to start the third quarter was outstanding. The guys were locked in and engaged.”

The Grizzlies made a mad push to get within 13 points of the Nuggets, but the Nuggets didn’t want to give up their chance at a top playoff seed. They’ll be the number two seed in the Western Conference with the win.

Denver (57-25) had eight players reach double-digits in scoring. Murray led the way with 21 points, and Christian Braun had 19 points and 10 rebounds off the bench. Nikola Jokic had 15 points and 15 rebounds. The Nuggets outrebounded the Grizzlies 54-44. Their 57 wins fall just one short of their record of 58 wins for the most in a season.

Jamal Murray and Scotty Pippen Jr. scramble for a loose ball. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/Tri-State Defender)

Memphis (27-55) was led by Jackson with 44 points (a career-high) and 12 rebounds. Jake LaRavia continued to be Jackson’s great sidekick, scoring 29 points with four assists. Scottie Pippen Jr. had 15 points and seven assists.

On Jackson’s development as a professional, Jenkins said, “What he has been doing on the court is a direct reflection of what he is doing off the court. GG has been unbelievable since day one. His work ethic has been phenomenal.”

Jackson, in humbleness, on his career game said, “We wanted to come out and get the win, but like Denzel Washington said (I’m leaving with something). I’ll take it. Some of them were forced. I thank all the coaches for believing in me. They told me to keep shooting. That’s what I like to hear.”

On the fans, Jenkins said, “The fans have been phenomenal. It has been a difficult season. The love our fans have for us, I could feel it all season and in the last few days. We are going to miss them over the next few months. I want to thank all the fans.”

Memphis had 33 starting lineups this season and 32 players on the active roster in games this season. These numbers are far ahead of the second-place teams. For some who played this season, it may be the end of their professional careers. For others, they will have quality work on film for other teams to evaluate.

Next up for the Grizzlies will be reconstruction and preparation for the NBA Draft Lottery in May and the NBA Draft in June. Many tough decisions will have to be made before the start of next season.

SLIDESHOW: Thousands saddle up for sold out shows at Bill Picket Rodeo

By

TSD Newsroom

-

04/14/2024

0

GSWE_8075 — One of those Bronco-riding brothers. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Thousands of enthusiasts packed the Agricenter International Arena for two presentations of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo on Saturday April 13!

Celebrating its 40th year in existence, the rodeo was a rootin’ tootin’ good time for all attendees — especially those who know the history of Bill Pickett and black cowboys in American history.

TSD Photojournalist Gary S. Whitlow caught some of the sights and sounds of the day . . . check these images out!

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo 2024 at Agricenter (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri...

1 of 8

Scrappy unheralded Grizzlies make Lakers work for 123-120 victory

By

Terry Davis

-

04/13/2024

0

When the Memphis Grizzlies took on the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, April 12, it might not have meant much to most Grizzlies fans, but for one Make-a-Wish patient, it meant the world. He got the opportunity to see the Grizzlies’ facilities and sit courtside during warmups.

He met Taylor Jenkins and many of the Grizzlies players as they went through their pre-game shootaround. He met some of the Lakers and referees during the final minutes before the opening tip-off and even shot a few shots before the Grizzlies entered the court.

They played the Lakers until the very end, with the Lakers defeating the Grizzlies 123-120. The Grizzlies fall to 27-54. Jenkins on the game and the last 15 seconds said, “Great fight by our guys.”

To the delight of Lakers fans, LeBron James and Anthony Davis played against the Grizzlies. Memphis had 13 players listed on their injury report. The Lakers used a late 8-0 run to end the quarter and get separation from the Grizzlies (34-26). Davis led the Lakers with 13 points in the quarter. Jordan Goodwin had 11 points for the Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies may have started the quarter down eight points, but they continued to battle with the Lakers for the entire second quarter. James had 11 points in the quarter. Jake LaRavia, fresh off his career-high scoring against Cleveland, had 17 points in the quarter. Memphis only trailed 68-64 in a high-scoring first half.

In the third quarter, the Grizzlies continued to play well. They led the Lakers by as many as nine points before Davis and James mounted a comeback. Davis and James scored 23 of the team’s 30 points in the third. The Lakers led the Grizzlies 98-97.

The fourth quarter had the feel of a playoff game as each team was trying to put the other away, but it wouldn’t happen. The Lakers took a three-point lead with 15.5 seconds left after two free throws from James. Memphis had a chance to tie the game, but a timeout advanced the ball, and a steal by James put the game on ice.

LeBron James doing LeBron things over the Memphis Grizzlies. (William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

The Lakers (46-35) were carried by James and Davis. James had 37 points in 41 minutes of action, and Davis had 36 points and 14 rebounds in 42 minutes. The Lakers shot 34 free throws to the Grizzlies’ 21.

LeBron James takes it to the rack against the Memphis Grizzlies. That guy is 39 years old. (William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)

Pippen had a career-high 28 points and six assists. Goodwin also had a career night with 23 points and 16 rebounds. Jake LaRavia continued his hot scoring with 28 points. GG Jackson continued to lead the Grizzlies with 31 points.

Pippen played for the Lakers earlier this season. When asked if he had extra motivation against the Lakers, Pippen said, “Definitely there was extra motivation. You know, they cut me earlier this year, and I was going in there with a little chip on my shoulder, of course. I’m still cool with all those guys, but at the end of the day, they still cut me. So, there was definitely some motivation going into it.”

Jenkins on Goodwin’s play: “Luckily with Jordan [Goodwin], he just plays with his strengths. I thought he was great early in the game coming out, shooting the heck out of it from the 3-point line, making those winning plays. We couldn’t get the first shot to fall there in that first quarter, but to stay close to in the game, it was the second chance. He even got his own rebound one time, or got a rebound and backed it out, knocked down a three.”

Goodwin on his career night said, “I was just playing hard. Not looking at our records, but during the small details every day to get better. Crediting my teammates for passing me the ball.”

Jackson on the team’s competitiveness: “I showed how locked in we are. It was one of the best games that I have played in. The energy and the atmosphere and the intensity [with which] we played with [show] promise.”

On meeting the expectations he had coming into the season, Jackson said, “The only thing I wished I could have got was the Rookie of the Year in the G-League. I knew I wouldn’t be able to play the full season because I was with the Grizzlies. Other than that, it was a little wonky. It has been a crazy year. I hope I can continue to take these leaps and steps to help better my game and the people around me.”

The Memphis Grizzlies’ final game of the season is next. They face either a completely locked-in Denver Nuggets team or a weaker version of the Nuggets since the number one seed could be in the balance on Sunday. The game will tip-off at 2:30 on Sunday, April 14, at the FedExForum.

Bill Pickett Rodeo is in town to remind you that Black cowboys (and cowgirls!) exist — and they always have

By

Lee Eric Smith

-

04/12/2024

0

Bill Pickett even roped his way past segregated Hollywood. He performed in “The Bull Dogger.” (Photo: Wikipedia)

Editor’s Note: This feature story was originally published in 2019. It has been updated ahead of this weekend’s Bill Pickett Rodeo, set for April 13 at the Agricenter.

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo saddles up at Agricenter International this weekend, showcasing some of America’s top African-American cowboys and cowgirls. And if you thought black folk don’t go to rodeos, let alone ride bulls and rope calves in them, you’re in for a treat – and a history lesson.

Long before #OscarsSoWhite became a thing, Barbara Love knew something was off. Like a lot of people, she grew up watching Westerns on TV and at the theatres. It was who she didn’t see that caught her attention.

“It fascinated me because television glorified the cowboy,” said Love, better known as “Miss Kitty” on the rodeo circuit. “I grew up on John Wayne, Gary Cooper and Henry Fonda. And I thought, ‘My great-grandfather ran a livery stable in Alabama.”

“Why is it that all the cowboys are white?” she asked.

Of course, there were plenty of black cowboys. Cowgirls, too. Many of their names are forever lost to history, but one name still stands tall: William Pickett.

Born near Austin, Texas in 1870, Pickett’s list of accomplishments belongs in history books – he invented the “grab-‘em-by-the-horns” style of bull wrestling called bulldogging. He performed around the world, became the first black cowboy movie star and performed for the British Royal Family.

Picket died in 1932. And although he was enshrined in multiple halls of fame, it wasn’t until 1984 that a cowboy named Lu Vason launched the Bill Pickett Rodeo to pay homage to the iconic figure. Unfortunately, even in the 1980s, America needed a black rodeo for the same reasons Pickett never got the universal appreciation he deserved.

“White rodeos really weren’t open to us,” Miss Kitty said. “Either black cowboys weren’t invited, or they weren’t scored fairly. That’s just how it was.”

These days, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is the world’s only African American touring rodeo, bringing joy to sell-out crowds across America. Other than Memphis, additional rodeo stops include Denver, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and Trenton, N.J.

After Lu Vason became ill and passed away, his then-wife Valeria took over the rodeo operations to continue his legacy. Under the leadership of Valeria Howard Cunningham, the rodeo has continued to thrive. You read that right: In an industry dominated by white males who typically scoff at women and/or people of color, a black woman is running the show.

Barbara Love is the local organizer for the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo – but she’s better known as “Miss Kitty,” pictured here in a TSD file photo with her horse Silver.

That brings us to how Barbara Love, the Memphis coordinator for the Pickett Rodeo, came to be known as “Miss Kitty.” In the extra-macho world of rodeos, the name started as a sexist jab, the retired teacher said.

“It was from ‘Gunsmoke,’” Miss Kitty said, referring to the classic TV western. “There was only one woman on the show – Miss Kitty. And often, I was the only woman at these rodeos. So people started calling me that. I hated it.”

That only added fuel to the fire, she continued.

“I used to cry,” she added. “And when people find out something like that bothers you, that’s when they really pick at you.”

Stuck with a nickname she hated, she adapted and made it work for her.

“It spread like wildfire to the point where I just had to go on and accept it,” Miss Kitty said. “If I was trying to call (the Mayor’s office) and used my real name, they were like, ‘Who?’ But when I said, ‘Miss Kitty,’ they knew who I was.

“I didn’t name me that,” she said. “Memphis named me that.”

For 28 years, Miss Kitty has brought the Bill Pickett Rodeo to Memphis, and she’s always made sure to mix education in with entertainment. On Friday morning from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., students will be the featured guests at the “Rodeo for Kidz Sake,” exposing youngsters to animals, cowboys and cowgirls. “The kids show is sold out. I could have done two kids shows this year,” she said.

The rodeo experience teaches the kids about the importance of Black Americans in the development of the West.

“When I started working with rodeos, I had to dig to find information about the Buffalo Soldiers,” Miss Kitty said, referring to the historic African American military unit. “Nobody knew about them. We’re creating an awareness about this history.”

Thousands of spectators are expected to gather to watch black cowboys and cowgirls compete in eight major rodeo events. Among them (abbreviations intact): Bare Back Ridin’, Bull Doggin’, Calf Ropin’, Steer Undecoratin’, Barrel Racin’, Kid’s Calf Scramblin’, Relay Racin’, and Bull Ridin’.

“Nobody ever leaves disappointed,” she said.

Miss Kitty said that though she extends invitations to schools all around the Mid South, the only schools to respond are typically in Memphis and Shelby County. Which is a shame, she said.

“You can’t force somebody to participate,” Miss Kitty said. “All you can do is invite them.

“I don’t understand why little white children don’t get to learn about this history.”

NAREB Memphis President: Paying $1,700 in rent? ‘You can buy a home for cheaper than that’

By

Lee Eric Smith

-

04/12/2024

0

Untitled-3 (1) — Daryl Lewis, President of the Memphis Chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.

My mother died almost five years ago, in April 2019. I never imagined I’d type these next words, but in hindsight, I’m glad she passed when she did, before COVID-19 shut down everything.

Had she lived another year, she likely would have died in the asssited living home where she was staying – without me or my brothers being able to see her before passing, or giving her a proper funeral for that matter. Thank God she didn’t leave us with those problems.

No, bless her heart, she left us with another problem. She left me and my brothers the home house we grew up in, the one she and my dad built in the 1950s. But there was no legally valid will to say who got the house. We wrangled over it for a few years, but my brothers have built lives elsewhere, and eventually deeded the house – and the responsibilities thereof – to me.

And so the question falls to me, like so many of us who have inherited property:

“What do we do with Big Mama’s House?”

That’s the big question that will be tackled during the National Association of Real Estate Brokers’ National Realtist Week 2024. As part of NAREB’s 100-City Wealth Building Tour, the Memphis chapter is hosting a week of activities aimed at increasing black wealth — more specifically, increasing black land ownership.

A week of activities culminates on Saturday, April 13, at Greater Faith COGIC with a free workshop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The featured panel, “What To Do with Big Mama’s House?” will provide tips on keeping and leveraging inherited property into generational wealth.

I spoke with Daryl Lewis, local president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers’ Memphis Chapter about NAREB’s “Building Black Wealth Tour,” aimed at arming people of color with the knowledge to build wealth. And as a owner of inherited property, I asked about Big Mama’s House. Here’s our conversation, edited for clarity and length:

Tri-State Defender: I’m eager to dive into the importance of Realtist Week, especially its focus on wealth building in our communities. Can you share why it’s crucial and its local impact?

Daryl Lewis, NAREB Memphis President: Sure. So National NAREB President Courtney Johnson Rose wanted to embark on a 100-city tour to build black wealth through real estate. We’ve discovered that real estate is a fundamental part of wealth-building portfolios, especially in the black community, where it has traditionally been a means of generational wealth.

There are no millionaires who have been created without real estate as a part of their portfolio. Especially within the black community, real estate has been one thing that was able to be passed down from generation to generation to create wealth. Memphis, as a majority minority city, we should own more real estate.

But some of our neighborhoods have been left desolate and people have moved out of the city due to economic woes. But now we are seeing it seen where if someone can afford $1,700 a month in rent, they can buy a home cheaper than that.

TSD: Memphis seems to be a renter’s market, with investors impacting property values. How does this trend affect wealth building for those looking to buy homes to live in?

Lewis: Well, one of the things that we’re doing with the 100 City Black Wealth Tour is a workshop called “What to do with Big Mama’s House.” That’s going to be one of the segments that’s going to be taught on Saturday.

By selling off legacy property, people have sold off their family’s legacy. Some people have lost their family’s legacy by not maintaining it, paying the property taxes, keeping it up. And while investors have come in and bought it up, it’s not totally investors’ fault. We should have been wise enough to maintain our family’s legacy versus squandering it all for a few pennies.

Some people have gotten so greedy, they’re saying, “Look, let me capitalize off the market.” But what they didn’t realize is that in doing so, you actually have injured the African American community more.

TSD: “What to Do with Big Mama’s House?” That sounds intriguing, especially because I have inherited property when my mom died in 2019. What should we do with “Big Mama’s House?”

Lewis: Redevelop it. Build on it. But do not sell it. God is not making any more land and there are no people of any race, creed or color that does not have real estate in their portfolio as a wealth building tool — none. So, if you have property that you’re sitting on, and it is in an area where you can see the possible redevelopment may come, do not sell.

Even if you don’t see an opportunity where redevelopment can happen right now, do not sell. That land is valuable in some aspect. Even if you’re just using it to put a community garden on. Allow somebody to farm that particular plot of land, no matter how big or how small, or grow your own crops. Watermelons, greens or whatever the case may be. Maintain that property because it gives you ownership.

And if you needed to put a trailer on it, if the laws would provide for it, then you could put a trailer on it and have your place to live. Tiny homes have never hurt anybody — you just need shelter, right? So if you could build a tiny home for less than $50,000 to $60,000, that is still an opportunity to live cheaper than they would be paying rent. It’s still an opportunity.

TSD: I get it. But real talk: There are a lot of people out here worried about what they’re going to eat tonight. Bridging the gap between living paycheck to paycheck and adopting a wealth-building mindset can be challenging. How do you address this shift, especially among those struggling daily?

Lewis: We won’t be able to help everybody. Even The Bible says the poor you will have with you always. It also indicates that our people perish for the lack of knowledge. But knowledge is only as good as the person that will implement that knowledge they are given.

Really, it’s up to every individual to decide that the solution is greater than the pain. We won’t convince everybody that the homeownership is the best way to generational wealth. We won’t convince everybody that they shouldn’t have the best of everything and they got to start somewhere. That they got to crawl before they walk. You won’t convince everybody of that.

But what you have to do is help those that you can with what you can while you can. If they don’t come and get the knowledge, it’s not because it wasn’t offered. And it’s not because it wasn’t free. It was because they didn’t come and get it and didn’t put it in place.

So, people just need to come get the information and find out what we can do to help them, because again, our people perish for the lack of knowledge.

Buy now

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: