by Brian Malone | Dec 20, 2016 | CMG News
First Class to Open in March 2017 In Organization’s Mission of Recruiting, Training and Inspiring Democratic Women to Run for All Levels of Office
Emerge Tennessee, an affiliate of Emerge America, today announces its first Board of Directors with 15 members from across the state. Last week Emerge Tennessee posted the position seeking its first Executive Director, and the organization plans its first training program to open in March.
“We believe that if families, women and children are to succeed in Tennessee, then we must start by electing Democratic women to focus on the critical policies like education, healthcare, transportation, jobs, affordable housing and equity,” said Carol Brown Andrews, a founding member and board member. “Our mission is to recruit, train and empower Democratic women to run for office on every level to make our communities stronger from the grassroots up.”
Emerge Tennessee’s inaugural Board of Directors:
Carol Brown Andrews, Vice President and Senior Editor of Grindstone Research, Nashville. Carol was named best opposition researcher in America in two categories by Republican, Independent and Democratic peers in the American Association of Political Consultants in 2016. She has worked in hundreds of Democratic campaigns on all levels across the country as a strategist, researcher and communications expert for more than 25 years. Just this year, she helped elect the first woman and person of color to Congress from the state of Delaware. A former newspaper reporter, native Tennessean and University of Tennessee graduate, she also served as Communications Director for former Gov. Jim Doyle of Wisconsin and as Press Secretary for Gov. Chris Gregoire of Washington State.
Andrea Campbell, a nonprofit professional, Nashville. Dedicated to advancement of women in leadership, Campbell is the Nashville facilitator of LeadHer, an international women’s organization that challenges women to grow in their faith, leadership and relationships. Andrea also serves on the Executive Board of Advocates for Women’s and as Education Director of Kid’s Equality (AWAKE). She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Fisk University and is pursuing a Masters of Divinity.
Brenda Gadd, a veteran government affairs expert of Nashville. Brenda has more than 15 years of experience in Tennessee campaigns. She managed the successful, nationally watched Tennessee Supreme Court Retention Campaign, including protection of two women Justices. An outspoken advocate for women’s, children’s and minority issues, Brenda leads workshops and trainings on both grassroots and grassroots leadership.
Sky Gallegos, a senior political advisor to NextGen Climate founder Tom Steyer, Nashville. Sky’s career in national Democratic politics spans 20 years. She has held senior positions in Presidential campaigns, statewide campaigns, national advocacy organizations and served in both the Clinton and Obama Administrations. She currently advises Tom Steyer, the San Francisco philanthropist who founded NextGen Climate, an organization that acts politically to prevent climate disaster and promote prosperity for every American.
Gloria Johnson, an educator, of Knoxville. Gloria taught Special Education for 27 years. After serving four years as Chair of the Knox County Democratic Party, she decided to run for State House 13 and was elected in 2012, serving through 2014. She was carried to victory by tapping grassroots support for education, women’s healthcare, and good paying jobs with equal pay for equal work.
Holly McCall of Franklin. Holly has more than 25 years of experience as a communications strategist, newspaper reporter, and campaign operative at the local, state, and national levels. Most recently, she was the Democratic nominee for the Tennessee House of Representatives in Williamson County’s District 65.
Deidre Malone, President and CEO of The Carter Malone Group, LLC, Memphis. Deidre is the Vice President of Communications for the National Women’s Political Caucus, President of the NAACP Memphis branch, and former Shelby County Commissioner. She managed or played major roles and campaigns for Mayor, County Commission, City Council and School Board.
Enora “Nori” Moss, radio and television personality and women’s advocate, Chattanooga. The Chattanooga native is a professional speaker, community coordinator and consultant. Nori is currently working on a guide for young women, The Young Ladies Advocate: Integrity, Intelligence and Lifestyle. The booklet will be coupled with a program to inspire young women’s self-esteem. She is the founder of Nori Cares, a nonprofit for people in need. She is a recipient of the Neighborhood Trailblazer award from the City of Chattanooga Neighborhood Leadership Institute and was a nominee for the Civic Impact award from the Young Professional Association of Chattanooga for her work with nonprofits. Nori is the Communications Coordinator for the City of Chattanooga Department of Youth & Family Development.
Olliette Murray-Drobot, Executive Director of The Family Safety Center of Memphis and Shelby County. Olliette has 20 years of experience in not-for-profit management. The Family Safety Center (FSC) coordinates civil, criminal, health and social services for domestic violence victims. A member of the Memphis/Shelby Crime Commission Board of Directors, she is also a board member of the Memphis/Shelby County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Council.
Emily Passini is a Partner at Greenlight Media Strategies – a woman owned and operated direct mail firm with offices in Nashville, Brooklyn and Washington D.C. The Nashville resident was named a 2016 “Top 40 Under 40” by the American Association of Political Consultants. She directed media efforts in 11 states as Senior Strategist at Hopkins + Sacks during the 2014 election cycle – including independent expenditure programs in three targeted U.S. Senate races. In 2010, she served as a Political Director at the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee where she oversaw the strategic and spending decisions in 13 states across the country.
Freda Player, political director of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 205, Nashville. Freda began her political career on the Gore Presidential Campaign. She was later Voter Outreach Coordinator and the Political Director at the Tennessee Democratic Party. At SEIU, she is responsible for all lobbying, advocacy and electoral efforts for Local 205 in Nashville, Chattanooga, and Memphis. Freda chairs the Tennessee Health Care Campaign Board of Directors, serves as Treasurer of Tennessee Citizen Action, sits on the Advisory Board of Nashville New Leaders Council, and is At-Large board member for the League of Women Voters of Tennessee.
Cortney Piper, President of Piper Communications, Knoxville. Cortney provides commentary on current news and events in East Tennessee on WATE-TV’s Tennessee This Week, a weekly political roundtable. She started her public relations firm in 2008 at the height of the recession with a focus on energy, technology and getting results. Her firm has worked on some of the most innovative energy and technology initiatives in the state, region and country. In 2011, she had the privilege of attending the White House Business Leaders’ Forum on Jobs and Economic Competitiveness where she met with senior Administration officials to discuss efforts to spur economic growth and Administration priorities. Cortney has been recognized for her business leadership as a 2014 inductee to the Greater Knoxville Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty and recipient of the Postma Young Professional Medal. Cortney serves on the board of the East Tennessee Economic Council, the University of Tennessee Political Science Department’s Board of Advisors and chairs the Visit Knoxville Board of Directors. She is a 2013 graduate of Leadership Knoxville and 2009 graduate of Leadership Oak Ridge.
Stacy Richardson currently serves as Chief of Staff to Mayor Andy Berke in Chattanooga. Stacy leads a team of 15 senior government officials who oversee the development and implementation of the Mayor’s agenda. She has overseen the drafting and passage of the City’s first open data policy, lead the development of the City’s early childhood education agenda, and coordinated efforts with area Universities to limit sexual assault on college campuses. Stacy previously worked at the crossroads of politics and policy — either in her capacity as a researcher or working on political campaigns. She graduated with highest honors from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and is currently pursuing her masters degree at the Sol Price School of Public Policy. Stacy also serves on the board of the Chattanooga Urban Design Studio and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga College of Arts & Sciences.
Maura Black Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer of the City of Chattanooga. Maura runs the day-to-day operations of Chattanooga’s city government, directing and coordinating the administration with the policies of Mayor Andy Berke and the City Council. Prior to joining Mayor Berke’s staff, Sullivan was Deputy Chief Administrative Officer in the Chief Administrative Office for the City of Memphis, reporting directly to Mayor A C Wharton. Maura was also Deputy Division Director in the Division of Planning and Development in Memphis and Shelby County, and Assistant Superintendent, Planning and Student Services, Shelby County Schools. Earlier in her career, Maura launched her own public affairs and public relations consultancy and served as special assistant to former Congressman Harold E. Ford, Jr.
Jennifer Buck Wallace, Director for Together Tennessee, of Nashville. She graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Law in 2000. After working as a producer for Country Music Television for 5 years, Jennifer left her career in television to become the Tennessee State Field Organizer for Obama for America in 2007. Post-election, Jennifer went to work for the Tennessee Democratic Party as the Executive Director in 2009, and then became the Director of Development and Tennessee Senior Advisor for Organizing for Action in 2013. Jennifer and her husband Billy live in Germantown are the parents of a young son, Buck.
ABOUT EMERGE TENNESSEE
Founded in 2016, Emerge Tennessee will be the premier political leadership training organization for Democratic women in Tennessee. Our mission is to recruit, train, and inspire Democratic women to pursue public office at the local, state and national levels through our multi-month campaign-training program. Emerge Tennessee is an affiliate of Emerge America, a national organization currently working in 17 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
by Brian Malone | Dec 8, 2016 | CMG News
Inaugural Trailblazer Awards Presented by the City of Memphis
Yesterday the City of Memphis and the Division of Housing and Community Development paid tribute to 28 individuals with the Memphis Heritage Trailblazer award. This first time event honored Memphians for advancing civil and human rights and for carrying the torch to uphold African-American history and culture. The program also provided an overview of the Memphis Heritage Trail’s plan that has projected opportunities of an economic development impact of more than 1,000 new jobs and $84 million in additional tourism revenue.
“We are extremely excited about the Memphis Heritage Trail project and it has been eight years of planning to get us where we are today,” said Felicia Harris, Manager, Planning and Development, City of Memphis. “It is important for us to pay homage to those individuals who have fought and continue to fight for civil and human rights. Memphis reaps the benefits of their labor and we honored that today.”
The Memphis Heritage Trail is a historic 60-block redevelopment area in downtown Memphis. The project has been in the works since 2008 and includes the area bordered by Beale Street on the north, Main Street on the west, Crump Boulevard on the south and Walnut Street on the east. Community assets within the area are: Clayborn Temple, Mason Temple, Universal Life Building and the National Civil Rights Museum. It is considered the epicenter of African-American history, heritage and culture and will include a walking trail with historical markers.
“Society has so much to thank these individuals for,” said Jim Strickland, Mayor of Memphis. “These recipients come from all walks of life and have sacrificed to make a better Memphis for us all.”
The awards program was held at the Halloran Centre in downtown Memphis.
Here is a list of the Memphis Heritage Trailblazer Award Honorees:
Recipients:
Yvonne & David Acey Robert Lipscomb Judge Russell Sugarmon
Ekundayo Bandele Marion Mitchell Calvin Taylor
Joyce Blackmon Dr. James Netters Henry Turley
Ruby Bright Attorney Charlie Newman Elaine Lee Turner
Attorney Mike Cody O C Pleasant Rosalind Withers
Erma Clanton Diane Rudner Jocelyn Wurzburg, J.D.
Fred Davis James D’eke Pope Jan Young/Assisi Foundation
Bishop William Graves Beverly Robertson
Rev. LaSimba Gray Dr. Coby Smith
Happy Jones Mark Stansbury
About MHT
Memphis Heritage Trail is an expansive plan to celebrate the rich business, culture and musical heritage of African-American achievements in Memphis. The project brings historical tourism, urban redevelopment and city-wide pride to important public spaces. For more information visit http://memphisheritagetrail.com/.
by Brian Malone | Nov 8, 2016 | CMG News
Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis is offering a grant of up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations. The Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis has one annual grant cycle per year. Eligible applicants have a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt designation from the Internal Revenue Service and are located within Shelby County. Winners from previous years may apply, but must provide written results of the grant awarded.
“It is our responsibility to give back to the community that has given us so much,” said Mary McDaniels, President of Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis.
Grants awarded by Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis support economic self-sufficiency. In particular, those that include but are not limited to: Career Development, Education, Entrepreneurship, Scholarship and Health.
Grants awarded by Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis does not support: Individuals, For-profit organizations, churches or programs that promote religious activities, projects which take place before the completion of the grant-making process, projects inconsistent with federal, state and local non-discrimination ordinances regarding equal employment opportunity and campaigns to elect public officials
The applications became available on the Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis’ website on November 1. The deadline for applications will be January 31, 2017. The grants will be reviewed and recommendations will be made by February 28, and will be approved by March 31. The award luncheon will be held May 1, 2017. For more details on the Grant and the application process, visit the website at http://pbwmemphis.org/
About Philanthropic Black Women.
Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis (PBWM) is a group of nine progressive and civic minded women, committed to giving back to the community. PBWM was founded in January 2005. Philanthropic Black Women of Memphis is a private organization with funding currently being provided by the membership.
by Brian Malone | Oct 27, 2016 | CMG News
Congregations tracking omega-3 levels throughout the year for heart health
Memphis-area church congregations are taking care of their spiritual hearts and their physical hearts when they take part in Healthy Heart Sunday on October 30. That is the day they begin their Alpha and Omega-3 Journey to track their omega-3 levels from October 2016-17.
There are currently nine churches participating in the journey. Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) is sponsoring the program and works year round to encourage Americans to eat at least two servings of seafood per week.
“SNP Memphis is looking forward to working with these congregations,” said SNP Director Deidre Malone. “Unfortunately, Memphis struggles as being ranked as one of the most unhealthy and obese cities in the United States. At SNP, we want to encourage Memphians to choose seafood as a healthy protein to eat. Our hope is as their omega-3 levels rise, their cholesterol, blood pressure and weight will fall.”
Omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood are known to reduce the risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the U.S. The average American should have an omega-3 level of 7-8 percent in their blood, but, in the Mid-South, those levels hover around 2-3 percent.
Participants in the program will first sign the Healthy Heart Pledge, a commitment to eat at least two servings of seafood per week. At that time their starting omega-3 level will be tested and continue to be checked until October 2017.
Each participating church will have periodic meetings with omega-3 testing for the participants. The meetings are coordinated by the individual churches and can include recipe swaps, discussions of effective cooking tips and fitness sessions.
SNP encourages all Memphians to take the Healthy Heart Pledge stating their commitment to eat two servings of seafood a week. To date, more than 2,000 Memphians have signed the pledge. For each pledge signed, a can of seafood is donated to the Mid-South Food Bank. Visit: www.seafoodnutrition.org to sign the pledge.
“Our congregation is really excited about this program,” said Rev. Henry Jackson, pastor of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. “Churches focus on spiritual health. This gives our members an opportunity to be more physically fit in addition to our spiritual health.”
For more information on the Alpha and Omega-3 Journey or how you or your church can participate, contact Dawn Carter at jdcarter@cmgpr.com or 901-278-0881.
About SNP
The Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) is a 501 (C) (3) nonprofit whose mission is to inspire a healthier America through partnerships that raise awareness about essential nutritional benefits of eating seafood. SNP, a member of the Non-Communicable
Diseases Roundtable, leads education efforts to help Americans gain the skills to select, order and prepare fish and shellfish, and to inspire a healthier America by promoting a nutrient-rich diet that includes seafood. For more information, visit
seafoodnutrition.org
by Brian Malone | Oct 10, 2016 | CMG News
Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle and Cox, P.C. Attorney Lauran Glassman Stimac has been appointed by Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland to the Memphis and Shelby County Sports Authority Board. She was confirmed by the City Council and will serve a six-year term through 2022.
“The FedEx Forum is a gem in our community,” Stimac said. “I look forward to working with the other board members of the Sports Authority to maintain it and enhance the athletic events in the area.”
The Sports Authority Board is comprised of residents from Memphis and Shelby County. It is charged to develop a master sports plan and to manage the debt and capital improvement requirements for the FedEx Forum.
Stimac received her bachelor’s and Juris Doctorate from the University of Richmond and is licensed to practice in Tennessee, Virginia and Mississippi. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Memphis Area Legal Services and serves as the sponsorship chair for their inaugural Justice for All Ball.
About Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle & Cox, P.C. Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle & Cox is a boutique law firm engaging only in civil trial litigation in courts primarily around the Mid-South, including in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky and Alabama. Our lawyers focus their talents on helping clients achieve the best possible results in their trial and arbitration matters both inside and outside the courtroom. The firm is renowned for its ability to handle the most difficult legal situations with targeted and steadfast intensity. Representing clients on both sides of the docket gives us unique insights into what motivates our opponents in court and during settlement negotiations.
by Brian Malone | Sep 29, 2016 | CMG News
THE GOAL IS TO INFORM MEMPHIANS OF THE BENEFITS OF A SEAFOOD-RICH DIET
October is National Seafood Month and the Memphis Coalition of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) is kicking it off with the Healthy Heart Summit. The event is Saturday, October 1 at St. Andrew A.M.E. Church Community Life Center, located at 1472 Mississippi Blvd, Memphis, TN, 38106 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. The summit will showcase the health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, of seafood-rich diet.
The panelists include Cardiologist Dr. Claro Diaz, Internist Dr. Patrick Malone, and Roshun Austin, CEO of The Works, will be on hand to discuss the health benefits of a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Chef Ayanna Johnson will demonstrate how easy it is to prepare low-cost seafood dishes at home. She also will mention overall seafood awareness, including how to buy it and which time of year seafood is the freshest. Fitness expert Rodrick Walls will provide cardio workout demonstrations for a healthy heart and discuss cardio fitness.
“Sadly, Mid-southerners are ranked as some of the most unhealthy and obese residents in the United States,” said Deidre Malone, Memphis Director, SNP. “Through the Seafood Nutrition Partnership, we are able to educate our residents on the health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids. We are also able to teach them how to cook and buy seafood cost effectively.”
National Seafood Month events in Memphis focus on encouraging Mid-Southerners to eat at least two servings of seafood per week according to the guidelines set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture. They sign a Healthy Heart Pledge stating their commitment to do so, and to date, nearly 2,000 Memphians have signed the pledge.
Other events during National Seafood Month in Memphis are:
Former NBA All-Star Detlef Schrempf will visit Memphis and hold a news conference on October 3. Schrempf serves on the board of directors for SNP.
Health Fair at Abundant Grace Fellowship Church on October 8, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Restaurant Week during October 17-21 featuring participating Memphis-area
restaurants that serve seafood on their menus.
Councilwoman Patrice Robinson Town Hall meeting on October 13, 6-7:30 p.m.
at The Healing Center.
Healthy Heart Sunday, a collaboration of the faith community to encourage
members to sign the Healthy Heart Pledge on October 30.
About SNP
The Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) is a 501 (C) (3) nonprofit whose mission is to
inspire a healthier America through partnerships that raise awareness about essential
nutritional benefits of eating seafood. SNP, a member of the Non-Communicable
Diseases Roundtable, leads education efforts to help Americans gain the skills to select,
order and prepare fish and shellfish, and to inspire a healthier America by promoting a
nutrient-rich diet that includes seafood. For more information, visit
seafoodnutrition.org.
by Brian Malone | Sep 23, 2016 | CMG News
Campaign aims to raise $12 million
Robert Cox, shareholder with Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle and Cox, P.C., has been named Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee for Planned Parenthood of the Greater Memphis Region. The Memphis chapter announced a $12 million fundraising campaign, titled the “Now Campaign,” and has already secured $9.8 million in gifts and pledges.
The money raised by the campaign will be used for increased patient care, including a second Memphis location. Funds also will be utilized to enhance the education, advocacy and sustainability goals of the organization.
Cox received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Notre Dame and bachelor’s degree from Princeton University. The Memphis native, is a member of the Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas Bar Associations and Board Member of the Orpheum Theater.
About Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle & Cox, P.C.
Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle & Cox is a boutique law firm engaging only in civil trial litigation in courts primarily around the Mid-South, including in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky and Alabama. Our lawyers focus their talents on helping clients achieve the best possible results in their trial and arbitration matters both inside and outside the courtroom. The firm is renowned for its ability to handle the most difficult legal situations with targeted and steadfast intensity. Representing clients on both sides of the docket gives us unique insights into what motivates our opponents in court and during settlement negotiations.
by Brian Malone | Sep 21, 2016 | CMG News
Personal items of the late Bishop G.E. Patterson will be on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) when the museum opens this Saturday, September 24, at the National Mall in Washington D.C.
More than 20 items were donated to the museum by the Bishop’s widow, Louise Patterson, and will be part of the Cultural Experience Exhibit located on the fourth floor. Two items are currently on display, Bishop Patterson’s collar and crucifix. A video excerpt from one of Bishop Patterson’s sermons can be seen as a part of the exhibit.
A leader in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination, Bishop Patterson was the founder of Bountiful Blessings Ministries and served as Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle of COGIC from 2000 until his death in 2007.
Current Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake shares his thoughts on this important tribute. “The Church of God in Christ is honored that our former Presiding Bishop G.E. Patterson, will have items displayed at the new Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture,” said Blake. “Bishop Patterson was an incredible leader and friend who loved the Church of God in Christ, what a great way to honor his memory.”
Mrs. Willie Mae Rivers, COGIC International General Supervisor for the Women’s Department remembers Bishop Patterson fondly. “The legacy and ministry of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson will forever live in the hearts of COGIC,” said Rivers. “I was blessed to serve with him during his entire term as Presiding Bishop and it was a joyous time to serve with such an awesome leader. This honor means so much to those of us who knew him and loved him.”
“I am speechless that my husband’s life accomplishments are recognized in this way,” said Louise Patterson. “It is truly an honor to have his work for the Lord enshrined in a Smithsonian museum for generations to see.”
The NMAAHC will open this Saturday and include a dedication ceremony with President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama. Visit https://nmaahc.si.edu for more information on the grand opening. This is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history and culture and houses more than 40,000 artifacts.
About Bountiful Blessings Inc.
Bountiful Blessings Inc., founded by Bishop G.E. Patterson in 1967, has been a beacon of hope and light for many in our global community for more than 35 years. The organization strives to provide individuals and families from all walks of life with resources and Godly principals to live healthy and abundant lives. Since Patterson’s passing, his wife, evangelist Louise Patterson, has continued his work with the same emphasis. For more information about Bountiful Blessings, please call 1-800-544-3571 or visit www.bbless.org.
by Brian Malone | Sep 6, 2016 | CMG News
Personal items of the late Bishop G.E. Patterson will be on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) when the museum opens to the public on September 24 at the National Mall in Washington D.C.
The items were donated to the museum by the Bishop’s widow, Louise Patterson, and will be part of the Cultural Experience Exhibit located on the fourth floor.
“I am speechless that the Bishop’s life accomplishments are recognized in this way,” said Louise Patterson. “It is truly an honor to have his work for the Lord enshrined in a Smithsonian museum for generations to see.”
The grand opening of the NMAAHC will be a weekend-long event beginning on September 23 with a music festival, Freedom Sounds: A Community Celebration, on the Washington Monument grounds. Saturday will include the museum’s dedication ceremony with extended hours for the crowds. Multiple outdoor viewing areas with large screens will be available to help accommodate the large crowds view the ceremony. Visit https://nmaahc.si.edu for more information on the grand opening.
A leader in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination, Bishop Patterson was the founder of Bountiful Blessings Ministries and served as presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle of COGIC from 2000 until his death in 2007.
The NMAAHC is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history and culture and houses more than 37,000 artifacts. It will be the 19th and newest museum of the Smithsonian Institution when it opens in September.
About Bountiful Blessings Inc.
Bountiful Blessings Inc., founded by Bishop G.E. Patterson in 1967, has been a beacon of hope and light for many in our global community for more than 35 years. The organization strives to provide individuals and families from all walks of life with resources and Godly principals to live healthy and abundant lives. Since Patterson’s passing, his wife, evangelist Louise Patterson, has continued his work with the same emphasis. For more information about Bountiful Blessings, please call 1-800-544-3571 or visit www.bbless.org
by Brian Malone | Aug 17, 2016 | CMG News
“And Justice For All” Was The Spark of Thought-Provoking Artistry
Poets from age 14 to 35 shared their perspectives at the National Civil Rights Museum” Drop the Mic Poetry Slam. This year’s theme was “And Justice For All.” There were 32 contestants that participated in the third year of this event held on Saturday, August 13 at the museum.
“This event showed that the abundance of injustice that exists has truly captured the attention of all ages,” said Terri Freeman, President, National Civil Rights Museum. “We were fortunate to be in the presence of great poets who did an excellent job in turning that pain and frustration into hope and unforgettable art.”
The winners in each category are the following:
| |
14-17 Age Group |
18-25 Age Group |
26-35 Age Group |
| 1st Place |
Kyla Lewis |
Shawne McCoy |
Yolanda Gates |
| 2nd Place |
Marquavious Moore |
Jeshaun Powell |
Carin Malone |
The grand prize winner in each category received $1,000 and a museum family membership and the runner up in each category received $750 and a museum family membership. The judges this year were Emmy Award winner and 3 time individual World Poetry Slam champion Ed Mabrey, 2014 NCRM Drop The Mic Poetry Slam winner Markuitta Washington, University of Memphis Professor of African American Studies Dr. Verner Mitchell, poet Sebastian Carson, and, NCRM Historian Ryan Jones,
About The National Civil Rights Museum
The NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM, located at the historic Lorraine Motel where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, is the only Museum of its kind in the country that gives a comprehensive overview of the American Civil Rights Movement from 1619 to the present. The Museum is intended to bring the movement to life, place the events in a historical perspective and provide a focus of national remembrance. Since the Museum opened in 1991, close to 5 million visitors from around the world have come, including more than 60,000 students annually. Recognized as a center for civil rights and social change, the Museum is steadfast in its mission to share the culture and lessons from the Movement and explore how this significant era continues to shape equality and freedom globally.
Through interactive exhibits, historic collections, storytelling, dynamic speakers and events, the museum offers visitors a chance to walk through history and learn more about a tumultuous and inspiring period of change. Then, invites you to Join the Movement, take a stand and share your voice on issues that impact our society.
An internationally acclaimed cultural institution, the Museum was recognized as USA Today’s Top 10 Best American Iconic Attractions; Top 10 Best Historical Spots in the U.S. by TLC’s Family Travel; Must See by the Age of 15 by Budget Travel and Kids; Top 10, American Treasures by USA Today; and Best Memphis Attraction by The Commercial Appeal and Memphis Business Journal.
www.civilrightsmuseum.org
