The Turkey Tourney

I assure you readers that should you mention three words, 'The Turkey Tourney' to a Decaturite, they immediately can relate and give you some information about one of the most prestigious Illinois annual invitational prep basketball events. As all Americans, we wait with hope that the coronavirus, which has crippled nationwide sporting events will be negated thus allowing the 51st Annual 8-team roundball throwdown. The Turkey Tourney has produced over 85, Division I basketball players along with NBA notables, Shaun Livingston and Andre' Iguodala. There has also been a plethora of State Championship teams from the likes of Decatur High, Peoria High, Champaign Central, East St. Louis High, Springfield Lanphier, Harvey-Thornton and state contenders, i.e.,. Bolingbrook, Springfield Southeast and soon to be added Peoria Manual.

The week long Turkey Tourney is attended by some 11,000 fans enjoying a 'Homecoming' atmosphere. The event transcends high school basketball as yearly recognitions of Grand Marshals, Volunteers, Decatur Heroes is laced into games, shooting contests and halftime entertainment.

As Tournament Coordinator the past nineteen years, I personally have come to know and admire the goodness of so many corporate and business supporters. I recall the first time I met with our own Decatur administrators and sponsors when I asked them what kind of tournament they wished to have. The said, "The most competitive in the State." We've pushed for that yearly. When I met with Decatur School District's maintenance and custodial staffs I gave them ownership to the event and they spit-shine and put our best foot forward. Decatur Public Schools do the City proud!

I began this blog Series speaking about having a race conversation. I shall close by pointing to the cooperative efforts of our local law enforcement and  a Decatur Volunteer group known as 'The Caring Black Men' who join efforts in mentoring and monitoring student-fan interaction and youth behavior during our Tournament Classic.

 I can attest to the fact that when people of any and all stripes come together in a shared committed cause, 'they get it right,' and it's always more important to do right and get it right than to be right! If people come together for conversation with such a mindset then true productive conversation will yield significant and meaningful change Good for our America.