A Christmas Story Narrative Inspired by Miss Wanda, Writer at Door of Hope

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December 2014 volume 2 issue 10 facebook.com/thememphisbridge @thebridgepaper $1.00 theclosing the gap betweenbridge homeless and sheltered what’s inside A Christmas Story Narrative inspired by Miss Wanda, writer at Door of Hope

6 | Making Room Free shelter opens its doors in Memphis

11 | ‘Tis the Season A Christmas greeting from Lisa Lee

Courtesy of ABBIE NORRIS CREATIVE MINDS: Miss Wanda and others gather at the Door of Hope to write about and discuss the Christmas season. BY LEE SILBERBERG Staf Writer his place seems familiar. Tis isn’t the like hot chocolate afer a cold winter’s night. right now. I want to be home. I want to be 14 | Speak Poetry frst time I’ve been here. Tis can’t be At least it isn’t cold here, or too cold. I guess I where I’m loved. I don’t want this stupid me- Workshop engag- the frst time I’ve been here. How did I should be thankful for that. Afer all, it could tallic pole to be the only thing next to me right Tget here though? It’s the same block I’ve walked be colder, I could be hungrier, and everything now. It’s Christmas! It’s the birthday of my es young writers could be worse. Lord and Savior, and all I can do is sit here and with social issues this entire year, in the same town far away from where I want to be. I know exactly where I am, I wish that it wasn’t that way though. I wish wish that I wasn’t exactly where I am right now. but that doesn’t make it any less terrible. I’m on I could go back to that place. Te place where I wish I wasn’t at this crossroads in Atlanta. I Cleveland Avenue. I’m still in Atlanta, and I’m I felt accepted; I had a path to walk on before I wish I didn’t put myself in this place in life. still far away from all those things that I want to took a wrong turn at that crossroad in my life. I It doesn’t matter that the day isn’t that cold. MESSAGE be right next to tonight. wish, most of all, that the only white fake I see I could be anywhere in the world right now FROM YOUR I remember these nights. Tonight is sup- on Christmas is a snowfake; every perfectly and I would still feel this cold inside. I have to VENDOR posed to be about family. Tonight is supposed diferent snowfake. Maybe I could throw them change. I don’t want another Christmas ever to be about forgiveness, but I can’t even for- afer gathering a whole lot of them into a snow- again like this. I don’t want to not have all the give myself right now. Why did I let myself ball, maybe I could make snow angels with my people I want around me. I want to have the get here? How did I let myself take it this far? family. Maybe, if I hadn’t gotten myself here, I people I love near me. I can’t keep using; I can’t I want to see my children. I want my children could watch my kids do all those things just like keep walking down this path. Baby Jesus was to see me. Just for tonight, but they are so far I did those things. I wish I could see them do born in a manger, but he didn’t stay there. I away; so very, very far away right now. Tey’re those things. I just wish it so badly. don’t have to stay in the manger either. I have hours away. I can count on my fngers, but I I wish I could see my kids do all those things to make a change. I have to. I just have to. I couldn’t see them like this even if I wanted to. that I did. I wish I could see what they look like can’t stay at the corner of Cleveland and far Tat’s what my kids are missing, all the right now. I wish I could see them wake up and away anymore. I want to stand at the corner things that I had when I celebrated the 25th open up the presents that I tried so damn hard of my kids and my family. I can’t have this for of December. It wasn’t about the presents. It to get perfect for them. Maybe once I get my life Christmas ever again — this life, this day — I wasn’t about the possibility of having a white together, once I get out of this hole and fnd my can’t relive this. I don’t want to ever relive this Christmas either. It was about family and ev- way back, I’ll be able to show them that I’ve al- Christmas. Tere are so many Christmases eryone being together. It was about that feeling ways thought about them with a big hug. I just I cherish; this can’t be my Christmas future. of peace I got when family embraced me, and want them to know that they’re what I want to Tis shouldn’t be my Christmas present. I will the warmth that touched me so sofly, that lin- have right now. I don’t want this Cleveland Av- change, right now, for the better, and make my gered the night. Te warmth that hits the soul, enue sign; I don’t want to be at this crosswalk Christmas future as beautiful and warm as my Christmas past. Page 2 editorial December 2014

le:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/hagme-15/ f Do you want to be featured in the paper? Desktop/Instagram-Logo-1.jpg Editorial Staf Tweet a picture with a vendor! Editor-in-Chief Nicole Huguley Managing Editor If you see a vendor of T e Emily Clark Design Editor Bridge around Memphis, take Sam Clark Section Editors a location-tagged picture of Grant Ebbesmeyer Eilidh Jenness him/her and tweet it to us Katie Butler Katie Cannon @thebridgepaper Mary Beth Turner Layout Designers We’ll print your submission Eilidh Jenness Emmie Heath in the next issue of Katie Cannon Katie Benjamin T e Bridge. Sydney Rogers Kathleen Blanck Art Director Corena Hasselle Editor of Homeless Content Aaron Banks Courtesy of MICHAEL QUANDER Editorial Policy T e Bridge is a monthly publication dedicated to issues of homelessness in Memphis, TN. It is run by volunteers and is unaf liated with any religious or political organization. All articles in T e Bridge are approved by the HOW IT WORKS: Editor-in-Chief and directors. However, speci- cially-labeled pieces from outside groups or contributing writers may appear and do not neces- VENDOR TRAINING sarily represent the views of T e Bridge editors and staf nor do they constitute an endorsement. T e Bridge welcomes feedback from all members of the Memphis community. Send letters to the editor at [email protected]. Want to know more? T e Bridge is a publication by the Memphis Street Newspaper Organization. T e Memphis Street Newspaper Organization is a non-prof t People who have had an and exists purely to provide reliable income for those with experiences of homelessness and also EXPERIENCE WITH to raise awareness about issues of homelessness After a brief interview, in the larger community. HOMELESSNESS they learn skills needed to For advertising-related requests, please contact: SELL THE BRIDGE [email protected] Each vendor Papers can be sold at To make a donation, please mail to: then receives a Memphis Street Newspaper Organization local events and on 2000 North Parkway, PO Box 1630 BADGE & Memphis, TN 38112 THE STREETS Or contact: FREE [email protected] papers FOR ONLY 20 1 For more information: [email protected] Additional papers are purchased for $0.25 apiece. thememphisbridge.com Vendors who spend certain amounts on papers receive incentives such as messenger bags and all-day bus passes. December 2014 features Page 3 Vendor Spotlight Letter from BY MASON BROWN you have to give them a winning I never thought even thought about Staf Writer smile. You can’t let them see if you’re it like that…High school was kind the having a bad day. You can’t show it. of awesome. very month, we like to sit And actually most of the time I have down with our vendors and a good day. And a brief compliment If you could have dinner with any- Editor hear their story. For this issue, doesn’t hurt anybody. one (living or dead) who would it EI chatted with Michael A. Tyler, Jr. be and why? BY NICOLE HUGULEY What was your family like growing Can I pick three? Barack Obama, Editor-in-Chief Are you originally from Memphis? up? Chris Beniot (I would’ve wanted “Yes, I was born in North Memphis As a child, 17 years old, my mom to be a student of his). I need fve. walked into Target in mid-November and and raised there.” and dad had separated and my mom Shawn Michaels, the whole ‘Gener- tried to stife a groan. Hanging from the had stayed with my grandmother ation X-team’, and Bill “Superstar” ceiling, spinning slowly from the gentle force How long have you been a vendor for a while. My mom, at that time, Dundee – and William Crank- Iof an air conditioned breeze, were several large for Te Bridge? was mental…bipolar and schizo- shooks (Memphis wrestler). Since May, 2013. Christmas-themed decorations. Two-dimen- sional pine trees, glittery tissue paper fans, and What was your bouncing gold ornaments – emblems of the com- What made you favorite book mercial holiday season – loomed over my head interested in Te growing up? like a fashy neon sign screaming “CHRISTMAS Bridge? I like Dr. Seuss! IS COMING.” One day when I was I love Dr. Seuss. As we know, Target is only one of hundreds trying to campaign Now my favorite of businesses that begin attracting customers and be a poll worker, cartoon would by way of recognizable Christmas decor way my wife told me, ‘You have to be Dis- before families reconnect over turkey, stufng, shouldn’t campaign ney Playhouse. and pecan pie. Around the same time that Target for a person just to Have you ever Christmas-fed its entrances space, Starbucks make the money if watched that? It’s put an end to the reign of pumpkin spice lattes you’re not supportive so awesome! of the person’. So she in favor of their Christmas signatures. But much to my cynical dismay, such marketing tactics ac- mentioned to me What is some- complish exactly what they intend. I, along with PT Bob (Poneytail thing you want most Americans, associate the Christmas holiday Bob)…he’s a vendor. the public to season with warmth, happiness, and joy. And he directed me know about Te pervasive efect of the Christmas cultural to Mr. Roderick. I the homeless phenomenon on our daily lives is undeniable — spoke to Mr. Roder- or those on the but have you ever considered how this insistent, ick, Roderick did my verge of being idealistic message of holiday cheer afects those interview, he trained homeless? who have no chance of sitting by a warm fre to me about Te Bridge, Here it goes: welcome Santa on December 24th? I got my vendor Just like the As you fip through the pages of this Decem- license the next week cooperyoung. ber issue, you may notice a few recurring themes. and it’s been up and org says, Say no First, my editorial staf and I decided to focus up ever since. to panhandling. on providing several diferent perspectives on Say yes to charity Courtesy of CORENA HASSELLE winter and the holiday season. You’ve probably What made you that’s helping already noticed or read the front cover, a creative interested in being a vendor for phrenic. She was a mental patient. close the gap between homeless narrative written by Lee Silberberg afer he in- Te Bridge? My mom lef my grandmother right and sheltered. Te reason why I terviewed Miss Wanda. Tis article sets the tone I had been working for the Com- afer I fnished school. say that is because Te Bridge gives for others related to Christmas; check out page mercial Appeal since I was 18 — So long story short, my Aunt you a step up. I think people should 4 for Emily Neale’s analysis of homeless shelters selling papers on the corner. I think Margaret, her sister, came and got buy the paper just to support the during wintertime. On page 11, Lisa Lee ofers along the line I heard about “the me and my little brother and took person that’s working with a ven- her thoughts on Christmas, reminding us all that homeless paper.” I heard about it but us the Executive Inn motel and dor’s license instead of holding up the essence of the season is rooted in Christianity, I never thought about picking it up we were staying out of motel for a a cardboard sign saying ‘Give me not consumerism. Te second theme that weaves because I had a…what do you call while. And me and my mom went your money.’ I could have done it. its way through this issue involves the power of it…a pride about myself - too much through this for a couple years…. A couple times I thought about it. the written word; poetry, as a form of human pride about myself. back and forth from diferent mo- But I’d rather sell the paper with expression, ofers a cathartic release for many tels. my talent…and make hundreds of people. Check out a full spread of poetry on page So you’ve had experience selling But I graduated and that’s when millions! 8-9 and Katie Cannon’s article on Speak Poetry papers. What’s the secret to being I really grew up. I was 18 years old Memphis, page 15. a good vendor? and I had to take my mom and my Why should people read Te Tere are several other gems hidden with- Te paper is a decent, good, honest little brother on my shoulders. She Bridge? in this issue, but I’ll keep those a surprise — a paper, helping close the gap between was getting assistance from the I consider myself a Bridge vendor (I reward for taking the time to read from cover to homeless and sheltered…that’s what government…but she was back and make hundreds of millions) who is cover. Tank you for purchasing a copy of Te I tell my customers who buy my pa- forth and in and out of diferent selling something where someone Bridge; I hope this one in particular leaves you per. Tis one, it just so happens that psychiatric hospitals. has been through what I’ve been we have a bunch of jokes in the back with a broader understanding of the trials faced through. We’re all entrepreneurs. by our neighbors on the streets during these cold of the paper in the kids’ zone of the What was it like not have a consis- Te Bridge paper is just a wonderful winter months. paper. And of course, in any sales tent home in high school? Did it paper to sell. that you’re doing out on the streets, make things more challenging? Page 4 op-ed December 2014 Baby It’s Cold Outside Helping the homeless in wintertime

Courtesy of SAMY LAMY AND ANDREW WILLIAMS BY EMILY NEALE always be met. digits “people could freeze to death,” says Mr. Car- Staf Writer Luckily, Memphis Union Mission does every- penter. A couple of years ago, a homeless woman “fell thing in its power to help those seeking a safe place. asleep in a car and literally froze to death,” he says. intertime, with its Christmas caroling, hot Tis shelter has a specifc plan for cold weather that Tese accidents need to stop in Memphis. Memphis chocolate, snowball fghts, and sledding, allows “any man to stay overnight for free” when the Union Mission is doing its part to help those without ofers the chance for cold weather frivolity. “temperature drops below 32 degrees.” Tis policy homes, but now it’s time for the community to step WBut for the homeless population in Memphis, the cold is excellent for decreasing the homeless population’s up. Te “biggest gap in the shelter system,” asserts Mr. brings hardship. When faced with temperatures dip- vulnerability to the dangers associated with the cold. Carpenter, “is the lack of beds for women.” Memphis ping below 40 degrees, people must either fnd shelter According to Steve Carpenter, the Director of De- Union Mission has a long-term program for homeless for the night or endure the frigid air on the streets. velopment for Memphis Union Mission, the shelter women, but does not temporarily house women. Te With this infux of people seeking shelter, the compe- “didn’t have to turn anyone away this past winter.” shelter must coordinate with others to fnd lodging for tition for a bed increases, causing some to be refused He continued, “Opening [Te Opportunity Center] these women and their children. In addition, shelters asylum. has been a blessing. Without it this past winter would are always in need of clothes, especially during the Many of the homeless shelters throughout the nation have been tough.” In addition to their 120 permanent wintertime. Donating gloves, coats, hats, socks, and have specifc cold-weather-related protocols to ensure beds, Union Mission provides a total of 364 extra beds underwear can help reduce winter-related injuries. that people have a place to spend the night. But one through their two locations, so that nobody is lef on Te treatment and quality of life of homeless people night is not enough. Te National Coalition for the the street. afects the well-being of our whole community.“Tere’s Homeless states that “44% of the nation’s homeless are Memphis Union Mission stands as a refuge for those a saying that a society can be judged based on how unsheltered.” Tat’s nearly half of the nation’s homeless in need of a home. I talked with a few of the men stay- it treats its most vulnerable citizens,” Carpenter says. lef out in the cold. Clearly, the resources for housing ing at the shelter during lunch. Te dwelling is open “And if we’re going to be a compassionate society, we all the homeless are inadequate. Many shelters allow and inviting, with many circular tables for eating and have to look out for the neediest among us.” someone to stay for the night, but turn them back conversing. As I walked through I was welcomed into onto the streets during the day. Tere are also several their conversations and briefy joined their circles of requirements to be able to take shelter, like a photo ID, friendship. One man, Coleman Dickson, counts him- going to a church service, and paying a small fee. If the self lucky that he’s been homeless for just two months, person cannot make those requirements, then he or and “doesn’t know how it feels to be out there [on the she has nowhere to go but the street. street],” he says. “I’ve seen guys out there that look And this isn’t a one-night problem. In our city, there kind of defeated. I haven’t reached there yet.” are approximately 2,000 people without homes. Even Memphis Union Mission’s cold weather policy though our winter is relatively mild, it still lasts for reduces the chance of individuals contracting hypo- several months. Tose months are when people need thermia, frostbite, or even dying due to the weather. lodging the most, yet the increased demand cannot With temperatures dropping to the teens and single Want more of Te Bridge? Check out our instagram at thebridgepaper! December 2014 features Page 5 By the people, For the people: Civilian oversight needed to balance law enforcement

Courtesy of QUIN TEACHEY CITY HALL: The Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board, a.k.a. CLERB, has their ofce located in the Memphis-Shelby County City Hall. BY MARIA YOUSUF (IA). Additionally, the CLERB lacks subpoena pow- respect for and interest in civilian afairs. And beyond Staf Writer ers, meaning that whether or not MPD ofcers attend respect and interest, the MPD also needs to seriously ichael Brown. Jesse Bogand. Alejandro Leos. CLERB hearings is lef to the ofcers’ discretion and is consider and act on public feedback and construc- All individuals who died at the hands of police, entirely voluntary. Te CLERB’s lack of authority over tive criticism. It is important for the governing and the the latter two here in Memphis. police ofers renders it unable to keep police activities in governed to be of one mind and be able to work with one MAs Abraham Lincoln famously said, “government of check, which is intended to be its primary mission, and another to achieve a common goal, especially in areas of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish leaves Memphis under the jurisdiction of a police depart- societal order and individual safety. from the earth.” Government — and by extension, law ment unmonitored and unregulated by civilians. Having police held accountable by the people they are enforcement — is a tool to serve the people. Police are But how much authority should the CLERB have over supposed to be protecting would help them to better employed to ensure public safety and order, but this mis- law enforcement authorities? Te police department is represent local citizens and be able to more efciently sion has become distorted, as shown in recent reports of supposed to have the education and training necessary to serve the public. Rather than ruling as a detached body, police activity, including the violation of civilian rights qualify them for its position of power. As a government- the police could be a personally-relatable force that works and mistreatment of suspects. supported law enforcing body, it is understandable that for local citizens to ensure fair enforcement of safety and As stated on the city of Memphis’s ofcial website, “the the police department has a greater proportion of au- security. Meaningful civilian oversight would not only Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (or “CLERB”) thority and responsibility concerning making decisions serve to keep checks on the police department, but it is an independent, non-police Mayoral Agency with the about routes to take and actions to carry out. Tis does would also revive civilian trust in local law enforcement. authority to investigate allegations of misconduct fled by not mean the police department should have unchecked Ideally, police would not need a CLERB, but having an Citizens of the public against the City of Memphis Police reign, however. efective CLERB for now could help law enforcement Ofcers.” If CLERB lives up to its mission and scrutinizes Since it is intended to be a more representative sample reach a point at which it is most benefcial to both legisla- the behavior of local law enforcement, it is, in theory, of those being governed, the CLERB could certainly tive authorities and civilians. A CLERB with sufcient logical and efective. Ideally, the CLERB would oversee a stand to be more efective in terms of restricting the jurisdiction can protect individual civilian rights and police force that empathizes with civilians and enforces scope of police power and infuencing how the police ensure public safety, or help the police department carry legislation in a humane manner. choose to implement their duties. While the police must out its intended function, in a democratic, humane way. Many debates have risen over whether the CLERB has maintain legal order and societal enough power to actually efect a change for the public well-being, the CLERB’s input should good. It allegedly has the “power to receive, investigate, be able to help protect human and hear cases, make fndings and recommend action on individual rights. Te CLERB does complaints concerning the City of Memphis Police Of- not necessarily need to be city’s fcers” (http://www.memphistn.gov). However, there ruling authority, but they need to are many claims stating the CLERB may seem to have have enough clout to balance public, authority on paper but does not have enough power to impersonal needs with individual, properly live up to its original purpose. personal interests. For instance, According to midsouthpeace.org, the CLERB cannot it should be mandatory for MPD hear a case until afer investigations are carried out by the ofcers to at least attend CLERB Memphis Police Department’s (MPD) Internal Afairs hearings and show some degree of Page 6 community profle December 2014 There’s Always “Room in the Inn” Kicking of the new season with an exciting addition to the program

Courtesy of NATALIE PALMER FOOD, SHELTER, WARMTH: Visitors participating in the Room at the Inn program lounge on a comfortable chair, sheltered against the cold weather.

BY GILLIAN WENHOLD city, but the program has already seen tremendous de- building ofers us an opportunity to do something Staf Writer velopment in a small span of time. According to the that can be more permanently helpful.” Te Carpen- founder, Lisa Anderson, “It’s growing very organically ter’s House allows for the organization to provide day s the days grow colder and the nights lengthen, it just by word of mouth.” Since its initiation, the charity hospitality, making it easier to connect the guests with becomes more and more difcult for the home- has been picking up speed, gaining city-wide attention. resources available to them. Lisa hopes that eventually less to survive on the streets of Memphis. Sure Tere are already ten participating churches and fve Room in the Inn will be able to provide classes for visi- Athere are shelters but most only ofer space to those who more hoping to get involved soon. Tis season will also tors who are hoping to earn their GEDs. Another long- can’t aford to pay the $7 entrance fee when tempera- feature the opening of “Te Carpenter’s House,” an ex- term dream for the shelter is for it to be able to ofer tures drop below freezing. However, the shelter Room citing new addition to the program. Tis new building homeless people a place to go when they are recovering in the Inn – Memphis is not only completely free, but will provide incredible opportunities for Room in the from hospital visits, seeing as one of the biggest issues has ofcially opened its doors for the season. Starting Inn to expand its services to include hospitality during with emergency care is that once a homeless person has on November 1 and lasting until March 31, churches all the daytime. It is being renovated and is expected to been released, he or she immediately returns to living around Memphis will double as homeless shelters once be ready for use this season, and three diferent non- on the streets. Tis is extremely difcult, especially in per week. On any given night, these churches are usu- proft organizations will be joining together to share the winter, and more ofen than not, patients return to ally warm, but unfortunately, always empty. Room in the space. Room in the Inn, the Iona Burrito Ministry, the hospital within a week. the Inn seeks to take advantage of such available space which feeds burritos to people on Tuesday afernoons, We can’t wait to see all of the exciting new additions by welcoming twelve homeless people into each partic- and the Urban Bicycle Food Ministry, whose volun- to the program, but for now, being available for the ipating church for the night. Guests register in advance, teers travel by bicycle handing out burritos on Wednes- guests remains the main focus of this organization. As and on the day of their sleepover, they meet at a central days, will collaborate to provide a safe place for home- Lisa observes, “Tere are always going to be people location to be driven by bus to one of the congregations. less people to go in order to prevent them from being who don’t have $7 to get into the Mission.” But luckily, Upon arrival, guests receive a home-cooked meal, ac- harassed on the streets during the most dangerous part there will also always be Room in the Inn. cess to shower facilities, a warm and safe place to stay of the year. for the night, and a light breakfast in the morning. Vol- Te Carpenter’s House is uniquely important to the unteers are always welcoming and excited to not only next stage of development for Room in the Inn. So far, have the opportunity to help the visitors, but also to get with the resources available, the foundation has only to know their homeless guests on a personal level. been able to ofer overnight care. Tus, its primary Room in the Inn was originally created in 1986 in focus was providing immediate help for the guests. Nashville and has recently opened its second loca- However, Ms. Lisa explains, “Te building just opens tion in Memphis. Having been established in 2010, up things that we can’t do in the congregations. Te this sector of Room in the Inn is relatively new to the congregational network is emergency shelter, and the December 2014 local culture Page 7 Top 7 Things to Do in Memphis This December As temperatures drop and the holidays approach, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the city and spread holiday cheer

BY ABBIE NORRIS Staf Writer

1. Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo November 21-December 30 Tis annual tradition is one of the city’s largest and most-loved light displays. Tis year, head on out to the Memphis Zoo afer-hours for a walk or trolley ride through the lights, ice skating, snow, and more! Zoo Lights is great for all ages and runs from November 21 to December 30. More information available at http://memphiszoo.org/ zoolights

2. Starry Nights at Shelby Farms November 21-December 28 Tis Mid-South tradition is an annual display of more than 1.5 million lights. Tis year, it’s back and bigger than ever! Ride through the lights in a horse-drawn carriage, or simply grab a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy the display on foot. Other attractions include visits with Santa, the Starry Petting Zoo, and a holiday market featuring local artisans. Starry Lights is open from November 21 to December 28, so head on out to experience some holiday cheer! with their annual tree-lighting ceremony! Onlookers Courtesy of UGLY SWEATER RUN More information available at will be serenaded with carols by local choirs and the 6. Memphis Farmers http://www.shelbyfarmspark.org/starrynights Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Te event is free and Market Holiday Market December 13 open to the public! It kicks of on November 28 and Memphis’ downtown farmers market fnishes of its 3. Enchanted Forest Festival of Trees lasts from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the hotel’s Grand Lobby. winter season with holiday-inspired goods from local November 15-December 31 More information available at farmers and vendors. Head on down for produce, mu- Tis magical Pink Palace tradition has charmed chil- http://www.peabodymemphis.com/holidays/ sic, and seasonal fun! Te Holiday Market is on De- dren for more than ffy years. Te Enchanted Forest cember 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., so be sure to check out is flled with animated penguins, elves making toys, 5. Holiday Pajama Party at Brooks Museum all it has to ofer before it closes for the season. and dozens of beautifully lit trees. In the forest, chil- December 14 More information availavle at dren can pose for pictures with Santa Claus and watch Tis free event is great for pajama-clad partiers of http://memphisfarmersmarket.org/events/ a miniature train weave through Gingerbread Village. all ages! Indoors, you can listen to holiday music from Proceeds from Te Enchanted Forest beneft Le Bon- some of Memphis’ most esteemed choirs and ensem- 7. Ugly Sweater Run December 21 heur Children’s Hospital, so go experience this magical bles, tour the gallery, make holiday crafs, and watch Dig up your favorite ugly sweaters and participate display from November 15 to December 31 at the Pink some of the season’s most celebrated flms. Outside, go in this festive 5K at Shelby Farms! Afer the run, enjoy Palace Museum. on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Overton Park unlimited hot chocolate, snow blowers, and ugly sweat- More information available at and experience the Stax Music Academy light show. er contests. Tose over 21 can enjoy an extra, compli- http://www.theenchantedforest.org/ Te party is on December 14 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. mentary lager or cider. Te Ugly Sweater Run benefts Onesies welcomed. Save the Children and is on December 21 at 3 p.m., so 4. Peabody Tree Lighting More information available at what are you waiting for? Register online and wear the Ceremony November 28 http://brooksmuseum.org/pajama-party ugliest sweater you can fnd! Join the Peabody as they kick of the holiday season Thank You,

for continually supporting The Bridge!

Courtesy of SHELBY FARMS PARK Page 8 poetry Page 9 Too Many This Time What About the Children Years of Year BY CHARLES RIDDICK BY TOMMY PAYNE BY CYNTHIA CRAWFORD Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer What about the children whose Children have needs that Homeless and alone if life couldn’t The negatives in life we don’t want Too many years have passed me by, I like the leaves changing colors. lives we hold dear must be met get any worse children to fall prey Years that I lingered all alone; Oranges, reds, and yellows; I have no more tears to cry, falling silently to the ground. What about the unfortunate ones, What does this world have to of er Some children will be Life is not all black and white there Oh Lord I’ll never go back home; The green beauty that once was, who will shed a tear them, what will they get game changers is still some grey Home is just another place, now raked into piles and bagged up. May the children possess the Where no one ever looks inside; Yesterday’s treasure, today’s trash. Children today seem to courage to stand for what’s right Others will be disconnected with Children will be children To see the past in my face, Flowers, various greens and squashes grow up fast this world and remain strangers that’s a fact And all the sorrow I can not hide. in harvest. Children that live good lives is an Guess you can call me a morning Little children frolicking in costumes of ghosts, Children are so vulnerable let their awesome sight I feel today’s world is Lets hope and pray that they keep glory. witches and cartoon characters; childhood last getting colder their lives intact I blossom when the fall winds blow. All in exchange for sweet goodies. Like unused books sitting I’m the twilight of a survivor Children that are encouraged have on shelves, In a child’s defense, When they cry out just help them T at really has no place to go. So many things to give thanks for, cornucopias, a chance to grow I want to be a soldier and pray Too many years have passed me by pumpkins and turkeys. Some children store their Years that I never fell in love. Pumpkin and pecan pies. Food, refreshments, There is so much about life they talents inside themselves Sometime I don’t get what this Love them hold them and really My only friend, the sun lit sky, trimmings, and the game of catch up between will need to know world seems to project hear what they have to say And lonely nights of stars above. old friends. There will be children who will feel Guess you can call me a morning We should empower the children their lives are under a curse I do know there are children we all What about the children? Will glory Daylight savings time, with all our strength need to protect their lives be better today? Running down the lonely road. I get an extra hour to sleep. Feeling nothing but a summer breeze; Thanksgiving and Christmas parades and plays. For the children we should go to Carrying my heart is a heavy load Jesus Christ our savior, his birth we celebrate. great lengths Too many years have passed me by Christmas gifts and Ol Saint Nick. Courtesy of TOMMY PAYNE To carry the burden of my soul In the twilight of a survivor Lights, trees, decorations, holiday hymns My tragic story sadly told and Christmas music. I loved you, I loved you, I loved you, Guess you can call me a morning Sugar, cinnamon, spice and all things nice. Dreams What more can I say. glory Pinecones, snowf akes and snowmen. I need you, I need you, I need you, I dance to the music of wind and rain Snowmobiles, sleds, snowball f ghts of Mae More and more each lonely day. I’m the twilight of a survivor, and ice skates. Times of late, I dream of Mae. BY TOMMY PAYNE hiding my quiet and secret pain. She had a careless broken heart; Contributing Writer Hot chili, soups and stews. She turned her back, she walked away. Hot chocolate with marshmallows, She tore my helpless dream apart; Once in a while, I’ll dream of Mae. and hot cof ee too Haunting memories, She had a careless broken heart; These are the reasons that I love Sometimes I think of her and cry. She turned her back, she walked away. this time of year Grey skies are all I see, She tore my helpless dreams apart. Since the day you said goodbye. I loved you, I loved you, I loved you, They wandered across the frozen plains, Pretty little country girl; What more can I say. Drums Survival etched in the human mind, She was captured by innocent love. I need you, I need you, I need you, They fashioned crude instruments of death My charm did change her world, More and more each lonely day. of War To slay the beast as well as our kind That grew as high as the stars above. The taunting memories; Drums of war, drums of war, Haunting memories, BY TOMMY PAYNE Sometimes I think of you and cry. Ethereal, alluring, but grotesque sound. Sometimes I think of her and cry. Contributing Writer Grey clouds are all I see, Chanting, run my son, run my son! Grey skies are all I see, Since the day you said goodbye. Be f rst to earn the bloody crown. Since the day she said goodbye. Strange, Unearthly, compelling sound, Pretty little country girl, The drums yet enchanted our ears, Times of late, I dream of Mae The remnant of some bygone age; She’d never been in love before. When civilization amassed and grew, A careless, broken heart. Quelling both my love and fear, Jealous heart and foolish pride; For all our human brethren slew. She closed the door, she walked away; Assuming primal rage. She walked away, she closed the door. Heartless warriors stand tall and proud; She tore my helpless dream apart. Drums of war, drums of war, I loved you, I loved you, I loved you To protect the Kingdom’s wealth and land, I love you, I love you, I love you, A mystical, enchanting, foreboding sound; What more can I say. To conquer the weak, What more can I say. Chanting, run my son, run my son! I need you, I need you, I need you, To advance the strong. I need you, I need you, I need you, Be f rst to earn the bloody crown. More and more each lonely day; Death inf icted by man, More and more each lonely day. The drums didn’t f rst enchant my ears, In the heart of Alexandria, Drums of war, drums of war Times of late I dream of Mae, On the Pleistocene’s very shore, A sleepy Louisiana town. Eerie, provocative, relentless sound. Times of late I dream of Mae. When nature withdrew her boundless love, Chanting, run my son, run my son! A young boy fell in love, Expelling the idle sons she bore; Courtesy of GEP PASCHAL Be f rst to earn the bloody crown But his world would come tumbling down. Page 10 Fiction December 2014 Flashes of Light in the Night Sky Ignorance Is Not Bliss

WORLD ON FIRE : In this installment of Bryant’s story, chaos breaks loose in Memphis as an alien spacecraft lands in the Mississippi River. Courtesy of SEAN DAVIS

BY ISAAC BRYANT Contributing Writer gnorance is not bliss! Whomever said that, you ********** other alphabet soup agency anything. I held up both lied! As I laid in my bed watching Mearl Purvis, I my hands, wiggling my fngers. "See, I still got all 10 of couldn't believe there was something to talk about Downtown: them." Iin Memphis other than the giant green tarp stretched In Tom Lee Park, about a thousand diehard id- Ten he leaned over my desk, I could see my across the Mississippi. Tey talked about the Grizz- iots who hadn't tired of what was in the river were refection in his sunglasses-I looked scared! "Lad, you ilies, the Tigers, they even talked with the 1# ranked knocked fat by the blast. Tose that could run, did. started this mess, you and the rest of DS-8, 8, get it?" power forward in the nation. Basketball season Trampling the less unfortunate as they ran west on Ten he slammed his hands onto my desktop. I don't couldn't get here fast enough for me. Riverside away from the military barrier. Front St. was know why I didn't jump. As Mearl joked with Joey Sulipek, it happened! not blocked. Te 400 or so people in Confederate Park "We were dismantled 28 years ago. And y’all took Tey switched to a Fox correspondent, standing at the took of toward Squirrel Park. Te less fortunate were my machine , my sofware designs, and all my notes. Mississippi River interviewing some yahoo who had also trampled, or plowed down by the cars on Front as I've kept my part of the bargain, period! Besides we raised a lot of sunken ships. He was going on about drivers lost control. only changed —" what it would take for the Coast Guard to foat the “It wasn’t a damn satellite! It was..." 'whatever' that was in the river. “Judging from the Millington Naval Base: He was a quiet for a moment. I know from personal length and width, the object is roughly 10'x30'..." Blah, At the Navy base, fghter pilots, who had taken to experience, M.I.B.S. don't make mistakes. I knew then blah, blah. I thought he would never shut up. “What sleeping in the cockpits of their F-14s, began to fre up that something was really wrong. I threw that voice if the thing in the river wasn't foatable, idiot?” I was their birds of prey. inside my head out. thinking to myself. "Y’all pointed the bloody thing to E.T., it took two Te Fox correspondent must have grown tired Downtown: years for them to get the message and 26 for them to of his bombastic mannerisms because she cut him On Riverside, the commander of the armored tank answer." of mid sentence to go to commercial. As she was division stationed in Memphis settled down his men "What they still stuck with analog?" Te voice in doing her outro, the camera focused on the tarp. It and got ready for a fght. my head could sneak one in, especially when I'm was quiet; the tarp was billowing in the wind. Ten scared. three things happened: whatever had crashed into the Mississippi River: He smiled, then he laughed, a good hearty laugh. Mississippi, ripped through the tarp. Tere was an On board the two Coast Guard fat boats, a total of But I wasn't buying it; he could have been imagining explosion so bright, even though it was on TV, it still 81 crew members were lost. me on thorazine and in Depends. "Tey don't need hurt my eyes. My TV went blank. Aboard the spacecraf: out of rations, life support analog, they crashed into the Mississippi. Took 26 "Not this time," I shouted I as ran to my ofce, "I almost nil; the captain and his crew celebrated as they years for them to get here. All because of nine bad got y’all this time." On my monitor was what looked felt the craf pull away from the muddy Mississippi. ass kids! Unbelievable! Oh yeah, we know you know like the most complex sudoku ever solved. It wasn't, "By the Great Father!" Visda shouted, "Just two more about Osceola. Not too funny now, am I? I give you it was a program I had written. All I had to do was hit revolutions captain, two more and even an earth credit, you knew to keep your mouth shut about that." enter. I'd know everything Uncle Sam knew and what infant —" Tat's as far as he got as their craf was We were silent a moment. I was just scared to say any- he didn't want me to know. assaulted by the blast. thing. "Go ahead and hit enter, Walker. You may not As I contemplated whether I should hit enter or be invited to play, this way if you are, you won't come not, I heard a voice say, "Might as well, Walker." I ********** into the game behind." looked up. In my ofce door stood a M.I.B.S. "Sooner I stared at the monitor. or later you may be invited to the game. Can't believe ...When he said that I reached for my bottle of whis- "And stay of mapquest.com! I know how much it took you this long. Either you are really smart or a key. you love Ms. Green's legumes and corn mufns, espe- wuss," He said with a New London accent. "Tat spirits store around the corner isn't hurting for cialy the Signor's grappa. I'd hate for them to become It seemed as if he flled my whole ofce. I tried to business, thanks to you and your next-door-neigh- what member #9 has become. Yes, she's still alive... look around him, but he said, "No worries old boy, it's bors.” stopped screaming ages ago, though she still wears a just me. Tought I could do my country some good if Only I'd lef the bottle in my bedroom. So I mus- bib and needs diapers. You be a good lad." He pointed I got out in the feld and got my hands dirty.” tered up the courage to speak, "What do you want? I to my Dell and lef my ofce. When he said that I reached for my.... kept my end of the agreement. I don't owe you or any Continued on page 13. December 2014 community profle Page 11 Season’s Greetings! A Holiday Message of Love

Courtesy of SEAN DAVIS HAPPY HOLIDAYS, MEMPHIANS: Lisa Robertson reminds us, regardless of what you may be doing this season, to be thankful, to be thoughtful and to give kindness to others.

BY LISA LEE ROBERTSON I suggest that we all should see where we are in 8. Remembrance! Always refect and bring to Contributing Writer Christ and with Christ before we decide to partic- your mind what he has done to love you, and ipate in our rituals and traditions. Te mindset of where He has brought you from. raise the Lord, and he is worthy to be Christ has got to line up with your participation 9. Give something to someone that will help praised! During this holiday season, we in uplifing God’s kingdom and winning more them; it can be prayer, time, love, money, rides would like to share our love with you souls for goodness. Only what we do for Jesus and so much more. When you give something Pthrough Christ, our Lord and Savior, and remind Christ will last, stored up in Heaven. out of love, don’t look at it as something you you that the key to this joyous season is our abili- Tis season, I’d like to share with you the keys have to give. Look at it in the big picture, ty to love. to having a blessed holiday. No matter where you because, when it come to love, you will get Love is not just something that we talk about are, what your circumstances may be, here are back all that you gave and more. Also, don’t because it sounds good. No, it should be felt from some steps that will help you mature your spirit let yourself say I don’t have anything; you within frst. Tis is where my husband, T.A, and into God’s spirit. can talk with someone, that’s giving. You can I get our joy. We frst love God through Christ. smile, that’s giving too. Don’t let the economy Ten, we were able to receive something special, 1. Each and every morning give praise. Say, rob you of your thoughts; they belong to you joy. We practice this year round, and it begins “Tank You, God”. and God. with our relationship with Christ. We have both 2. Clean your thoughts for the day. Today I can 10. Remember that you are blessed. It is your duty been homeless before; we both have experienced and I will not complain. Meditate on this. to uplif the soul, so that it can be nourished the results of our previous decisions in life, and Complaining opens the door for the enemy. and receive God’s love that comes through us, we both have learned that life consists of conse- 3. Forgive any and everything that is not right his body! quences and results. with you at this time; it can be a job, spouse, In our time here, we have learned to be more friend, school, home or any number of things. So praise His Holy Name Jesus! We love You. And grateful. We have learned and we practice forgive- 4. Tank God for prayer. Pray! if you would like to come fellowship with us, or just ness. Yet, we are still learning to repent more, and 5. Make reminders between you and God; your want to touch base with any issues with Christ, we turn away from doing and thinking as some of do’s and don’ts, and stick with them. are at Starting All Over Outreach Ministry: 1234 the world does. We live with the mindset of giving 6. Speak with wisdom and speak thinking of life Mississippi Blvd, Memphis, TN 38126 (901) 275- thanks to God for what He has already done, and over yourself. Say, “What is proper?” 8579. And just remember, have a blessed holiday; we operate cheerfully in Tanksgiving to receive 7. Start encouraging yourself. How you see your- you are loved. a better blessing from God. Tis holiday season, self in Christ will pull you through! Page 12 community profle December 2014 From Beginning, to End, to Life C.C. shares her story of being pregnant and homeless By mid-August, Bethany moved me into an extend- the Baptist Women’s Hospital out east, I was evaluated, BY CYNTHIA D. CRAWFORD ed-stay hotel. It was dramatically diferent than living and the staf started shooting all kinds of questions at Contributing Writer on the streets or in a shelter. I learned how to shop by me and fying around me in a hustle. Te next thing the week instead of for the moment, and had free access I remember, they were running me down the hall so t had been a long, difcult 9ninemonths. Afer all, to a full kitchen, shower and toilet. A pregnant woman’s fast, my head could have spun. We entered the delivery I’m not as young as I used to be. dream! Now I could shower anytime I wanted to. I even room and the nurse and orderlies moved me to a bed. January 2011 was the month I found out that I walked around my room naked a few times! Te nurse actually told me to hold it in! Do not push! wasI pregnant with my ffh child. From the beginning, Funny, ain’t it, all the little things we take for granted. She ended up delivering my baby girl, no pain medicine I knew my mission from God himself. I was travelling Like going to bed and choosing to shower when we needed. back and forth from Birmingham, AL to Memphis want to, or even going nude to refresh ourselves. With- Te doctor walked in two minutes later, and I thought when I was diagnosed with hypertension during preg- in a week of moving to the hotel, I no longer needed to myself “Nice timing, Doc, now that all the work is nancy. I was prescribed medicine to regulate my blood my blood pressure medicine. A couple of times a week done!” I just prayed and held my baby girl to my breast, pressure. My child on the way and my newfound hy- I would apply for jobs, attempting to plan for the fu- and she took right to it. Although the Bethany staf and pertension infuenced my decision to move back home ture afer the baby. However, managers and employ- the adopted parents didn’t like it, I insisted on breast- to Memphis in April 2011. ers looked down upon me because I was nine months feeding while in the hospital. Tis was my last gif that Upon arriving in Memphis, I assumed that I would pregnant. Non-proft volunteers and other people that I could give her. live in a shelter. But all shelters and waiting lists led me had also experienced being homeless loved and accept- Reality settled in, and tears came to my eyes. “Your back to the streets of Memphis. Tus, I was homeless ed me for me. Tey taught me to love myself again and mom and dad missed your grand entrance!” I whis- again while pregnant. that everyone has value. I owed them nothing for feed- pered to Serenity. Two days later, Serenity went home Soup kitchens, bible studies, public toilets and wash- ing me, loving me, accepting me, and giving me a new with her new parents and became Miriam. I went ups became regular parts of my life again. Not to men- lease on life. I, during most of this time, was involved “home” to the hotel. I felt as empty as that room. Yes, I tion grassy beds. Tankfully, when a friend of mine in Sunday School and attended church regularly. I was had a comfy bed, a small but nice kitchen, and my own found out about my plight, she gave me a place to stay. growing my much-needed support system. bathroom. But, it had no one to talk to, and, most of Tis blessing only lasted for three months. We had I woke up one Sunday morning feeling totally un- all, it didn’t have Serenity. I cried myself to sleep every a falling out and I could no longer stay with her. She comfortable. I was not hurting or anything, but felt like night for a week until, fnally, I could feel God’s arms referred me up with a caseworker who introduced me something was of. So I glanced at the clock at 5:29 p.m. wrap around me. I had the most incredible conversa- to Door of Hope. I spent a lot of time at Door of Hope’s and went outside. I began to pace back and forth in tion with God, and he reminded me that he was there Support Center. Tey had Bible study, reading classes, front of the hotel. I was clueless as to what was going on the whole time. Although I had conceived Serenity writing classes, and Bingo games. I also enjoyed social- with my body at the moment. Afer about 15 minutes within my womb and carried her for 9 months, I knew izing with the other clients, volunteers and staf. Tey of walking, I realized I was in full-blown labor! I called that that couple had conceived her within their hearts all became like my adopted family. It was really a free- 9-1-1, then the Bethany workers to leave a message to years before. ing time in my life. Tey put me into a shelter at Trinity notify the adoption parents. Te ambulance took me to of of Tird Street. I started communicating with diferent agencies and was able to get rides to and from the doctor’s ofce for prenatal visits. By late July 2011, I made that fateful call to Bethany Christain Services, a local adoption agency. I met a bubbly little blonde named of Adonnia, and we sat at McDonalds on Tird sipping tea, talking, and crying. To be honest, she did as much talking as I did the crying. Plans were made and papers were signed. It was one of the toughest steps of the process but the most fulflling. To make things worse, there was another pregnant woman at Trinity who had a critical spirit. People scru- tinized and ridiculed me for my choice. I tried to be understanding and remain quiet, knowing they were just ignorant to the decision I had to make. A week later, in Bethany’s ofce, I looked through and read a stack of books about the stories of dozens of couples that were hoping to adopt. Suddenly my breath caught in my throat as I read through one particular couple’s book. It was meant to be. Te baby in my tum- my instantly woke up and started kicking. Tese were her parents. We had made the decision. Troughout the next month, the couple and I ac- quainted ourselves. Tey took me to lunch a few times and even attended doctor and ultrasound appoint- ments with me. Tey were beyond ecstatic and so was I. I could feel the love of God fowing in and out of this couple.

Courtesy of CRAIG CLOUTIER December 2014 Fiction Page 13 Short Fiction: Xses, the Super Heroine

BY DELORES WASHINGTON to report these unseen crimes to the local Earth- and little Noahs who built their own domes and Contributing Writer lings. It was a tedious, lonely, tiresome job, but spaceships once they grew up. And they traveled ses is a beautiful, healthy earth woman. interesting, as she could witness everything that to other space stations, where they met others, She lives in outer space, in a huge Plexi- took place on Earth. It was akin to watching reali- mated and recreated the tale of Adam and Eve. glas dome on X-Lo space station. ty TV all day and night. A new Earth in outer space, a new world. XIt’s a large double-rounded glass house with From her lofy perch, Xses could see all of the bedrooms and bathrooms, a living and dining wonders of the universe; the beautiful sun rays room with a patio with patio furniture and a pool bouncing colorful prisms of of her glass house, surrounded by green shrubbery, trees, and fow- the silvery moon so close to her that she could ers. It’s non-penetrable by any source: heat, cold, almost touch it, the colored stars that foated by radiation, elemental gases or space debris. her house, and the billowy clouds and blue skies Xses had been selected from an array of qual- during daylight time that were indescribably ifed women and men for the job of criminal breathtaking. demolition. She had to be strong, healthy, self- Although Xses was the chosen super heroine, willed, stable-minded, compassionate, and able to she was still human; she became lonesome. For- survive years of solitude in outer space. tunately for Xses, the USA had recently launched X-Lo was launched into outer space for the an astronaut into space to collect specimens. Te purpose of viewing crime from above Earth, spaceship crashed onto X-Los landing pad, which using the telestar telescope with thousands of damaged it beyond repair. Xses had no spaceship megabytes that enabled it to see and scope all to return to Earth, she was to stay on X-lo perma- areas of the Earth; NY, LA, Chicago, Atlanta; from nently. Noah, the astronaut was now also stranded large cities to small towns. on X-LO. Xses sat at her computerized wall desk all day Xses allowed Noah entrance into her glass and night, with her telescope and maps of the dome. From there on, they were united in love Courtesy of BRUCE IRVING Earth nearby. She did this to witness crimes and and friendship. Tey produced little Xses-es Flashes of Light: Ignorance Is Bliss (cont.) Continued from page 10 Next thing I know, Ms. G. is standing over me demanding to know who Memphis Showboat. It looked like, for the briefest moment, the craf had that man was and why she couldn’t open my door. Before she got into over- gained control. "Wow, beautiful," I said, then it crashed into the river. Tere drive, I turned her around and walked her out my condo. I locked the door was no footage of the crash site in Osceola. and bolted it. I’d catch hell, but I needed to think. I went into my bedroom and tried the TV again. Unbelievable. People I didn’t hit enter. I turned on the broad band radio and got the same eerie were covered in blood. Tere were bodies everywhere. Guards at the air- whine that was coming from my tv. I walked onto my patio and heard an ports were in a frefght with people trying to get on to the tarmac and the F-14 thunder over head. I didn't see any explosions refecting of the Pyra- the planes that were being used to evacuate the city. I couldn't believe I'd mid. (Yes, I can see the Pyramid from the Tower on a clear night.) ever see the military fring on American citizens in my lifetime. In Mem- I needed to escape; so I grabbed my old friend Mr. Bourbon, and let him phis! Tere were long lines of cars headed east, south, and north. No one take me away!...My head was pounding. Te Martinellis were pounding on would go west even if they could; the military occupied both bridges. my door. My phone had fell of the nightstand, when I swung my feet to In Overton, a third of the people were getting stoned. A third were pray- the foor and felt the vibration on my lef big toe. I ‘bout jumped out of my ing, the Going to Glory Sect. And a third were trying to liberate the ani- skin! Tat's what a visit from a M.I.B.S. can do to me. mals in the zoo! "Only in Memphis! Animals, then women and children!" I Signor M. had reverted to his rapid fre Sicilian and Ms. G was ranting shouted. in Yiddish. I rubbed my aching temples and said to Signor M., "In English, I went to the evacuation website and was pissed; I didn't see our names, please." more importantly the Martinellis, on any of the evac lists for the 38137 zip "Te explosions! Te riots! Te fres! Soldiers fring on citizens all over code. I dialed the 888 number posted, ready to rip someone a new one. A the city! Te evacuation! Tey say to go to some web site. I don't know, we pleasant young lady named Brittany Taylor tried in vain to help, afer ten don't know what-" minutes she transferred me to a supervisor. Tis woman was clinical; she I cut him of and shook my head at Ms.G. before she could open her wouldn't give me her name, just told me to hold. As she typed away on her mouth. " Go home, get your M-16 out, and lock and bolt the door." Ms G. keyboard, I heard a beep from her CPU, a beep like something is wrong opened her mouth, but I kept on, "Come back here in one hour, and no, the beep! Afer a pause in the typing she said, "Sir I can only refer you back to door won't be bolted this time, Ms.G.!" our website," click. Back in my ofce, I hit enter. "Wasn't no damn rock," I whispered, as I "I know this broad didn't hang up in my face,” I shouted. Ten, my phone looked at the image on my monitor. It looked like a large V made of quick vibrated. Te screen read, 'Incoming mail,' but the sender was unknown. silver, cartwheeling through the sky. NASA footage showed it before it hit No one can send me blocked mail... “AAAH!" I shouted. M.I.B.S., what the our atmosphere. It did appear to be 10'x30'. "How did that little thing travel hell did they want? As I started to open my mail, my door exploded. In through the Milky Way," I asked the empty room. poured men in black combat fatigues with MP-5 machine guns and shout- Te last footage was from directly overhead. I could see both bridges ed, "DOWN! DOWN! DOWN!" running from here to Arkansas, the Beale Street River Landing, even Te M.I.B.S., Assholes set me up!!! Ignorance is bliss...my black ass!!! December 2014 arts Page 14 Speak Poetry Memphis Students do more than take tests; they speak out

Courtesy of MACRONIX - FLICKR BY KATIE CANNON Staf Writer n October 23, Mr. Williams’ Northwest today’s generation of poor Memphis teens, who of- place the story that they’re dissecting with some Prep High School English classroom be- ten don’t feel as though they can talk about their Tupac, or a Kanye West song, you can still get the came an impromptu hip-hop concert, problems. In 2010, Mishe’ started Speak Poetry same results — better, even,” she says. “Tell them Ocomplete with freestyle rapping, backup vocals, Memphis with the sponsorship of Walmart and to look for simile, metaphor, onomatopeia—but and beat-boxing. Te performers? Te students Dress for Success.Te program works to helped the you’re giving them texts they’re actually interested themselves, along with their teacher for the day — students both with their emotions and their edu- in. Ten they’re going to succeed. It’s not them that local poet, singer, and actress Tifany Mishe’. Te cation, encouraging students write poems on per- are wrong; they’re as smart as we’ll allow them to next day, students discussed the implications of sonal themes. One day, the topic is “I Am Not Who be. It’s us, we’re not teaching them right.” Miche’s words like “welfare,” “ghetto” and “food stamps.” You Tink I Am.” Te next, they write about stereo- program allows students to simply be themselves Welcome to Tifany Mishe’s Speak Poetry Memphis types, about words they ofend them. By allowing — rather than have them conform to a certain def- workshop, where real life is as worthy of study as them to write about things that actually afect their nition of what a good student should be, or what anything you’ll fnd in a literature textbook. daily lives, Mishe’ fnds that students work hard- good art, or literature should be, students can be Mishe’ has a way with words, and she’s using er, and produce profound work. “Please don’t let successful in their own way. her talent to change the lives of inner-city Mem- my smile fool you/ I am not who you think I am,” phis teens. Her program, Speak Poetry Mem- one student’s poem pleads. Another’s reads “I want phis, gives underprivileged youth the chance to to go to Alantis because it sounds peaceful/and I express themselves in a society that would often heard in Atlantis you don’t even have to keep your rather stifle their voices. To reach her young piece full.” audience, Mishe’ holds workshops at local high Te program is designed to bring students out schools — but when Mishe’ is your teacher, it of their shell, to give them the confdence to speak won’t be your average English class: instead of out rather than fall asleep in class. Miche’ ofen dissecting the themes of 19th-century stanzas, performs her own spoken word poetry for the they write and read poetry that addresses con- classes, then asks them to discuss the themes that temporary issues, issues they face themselves. It’s stand out to them. Ten, the students will write and a cabaret of cultural identity, a candid discussion perform their own poetry. “”Kids that never partic- of poverty and stereotypes, aspirations and emo- ipate start participating,” says Mishe’. For many, the tions. exercises are even a cathartic experience, dredging Mishe’ herself grew up in South Memphis’s Casta- up long-supressed emotion. “I’m like a counselor lia neighborhood. Troughout her childhood, she in disguise,” she says. “I come in, I get them com- faced depression and intermittent homelessness. fortable, and then I get you to talk about something Art, however, gave Mishe’ a therapeutic outlet to real serious.” deal with her issues. “I was depressed and suicid- By incorporating rap into her curriculum, Mishe’ al…I cried every single day of my life, but no one hopes she can dispel the notion that the students knew, because I was a writer,” she says.“I had note- are the problem when it comes to education. In- books full of dark, twisted poetry that saved my life stead, she lays the blame with the education sys- and probably other people’s lives too.” tem, whose archaic curriculum relies on material Mishe’ wants to ofer that same artistic outlet to the students can’t engage with. “If you were to re- Courtesy of STEVE JURVETSON December 2014 kids’ zone Page 15 Word Search Happy Holidays!

Make-A-Flake! Page 16 December 2014

Courtesy of CORENA HASSELLE