Council proposes hotel-motel tax hike for Forum renovations
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
Memphis City Council members gave an initial thumbs up this week to an ordinance that increases the city’s hotel-motel occupancy tax to boost funding for upwards of $550 million in renovations to the FedExForum.
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The increase would bring the tax to 4 percent, increasing it by 0.5 percent. Members unanimously approved the ordinance sponsored by Memphis Mayor Paul Young on its first vote, during an executive session Tuesday, Feb. 18. City leaders are counting on the tax to be one of the major funding sources for a series of long term renovations to the facility.
“Right now, it’s at 3.5 percent. It was envisioned over the past two or three years that 0.5 percent would be a part of the capital stack. That’s how we structured it. The task today is to begin the process,” said Young.
The city’s hotel-motel tax rate hasn’t changed since it was approved by voters in 1985.
Council members also approved on first vote $80 million for the first round of renovations, an initial step in securing another long-term agreement with the Memphis Grizzlies to play in the arena.
The money would go towards updates to elevators, chillers and emergency generators at the 19,000-capacity arena, improvements that are expected to sustain the long-term core of the building, Young said.
“It also includes dollars for the architecture and engineering for the longterm renovation of the facility, which is what is needed to get to very specific costs that are going to be needed to fund the full project,” he stated.
The city-owned arena’s 20-year lease with the NBA team is set to expire after the 2028-29 season. Young is currently
negotiating with team ownership on another deal. The Memphis Tigers men’s basketball team also plays home games at the FedExForum.
An $80 million outlay would also allow the city to use its dollars “more efficiently,” instead of putting up the whole sum up front. Future repairs will be taken care of after the dotted line is signed by team ownership.
The resolution would be funded from $230 million the State of Tennessee earmarked for sports facilities, according to Young. If passed, the money would be transferred to the Memphis-Shelby County Sports Authority Board, which would have to approve any expenditures.
Around $150 million would remain in the fund if the first allocation passes on a third and final vote. “We don’t expect to touch that until we have reached a long-term lease,” said Young.
The remaining $320 million in renovations would be paid through the hotel-motel tax.
Members are expected to bring both items up for first readings during the next meeting on March 18.
The last renovations to the FedExForum included a new HD scoreboard, HD displays, LED lighting and fan amenities. Work was completed before the start of the Grizzlies’ 2017-18 season. The total cost was $1.8 million.
President Calvin Anderson Editor Stephanie R. Jones
Justice Department shuts down federal police misconduct database following Trump’s revocation of Biden executive order
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
With the continued chaos from the Trump administration’s attacks on civil rights, liberties, and specifically, diversity, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has quietly decommissioned the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD), a tool created to track federal law enforcement misconduct. The database’s shutdown was quietly announced via an online statement that provided no explanation for the decision. Agencies can no longer access or update the system, which previously allowed law enforcement departments to check officers’ records for violations, including excessive force.
The closure follows President Donald Trump’s decision in January to rescind 78 executive orders issued under President Joe Biden’s administration, in-
cluding Executive Order 14074. Signed in 2022, Biden’s order was part of a broader initiative to enhance police accountability after the murder of George Floyd. In addition to establishing the NLEAD, the order banned chokeholds and emphasized de-escalation tactics within federal agencies.
While the NLEAD was not publicly accessible, it was a critical tool for law enforcement agencies to evaluate officers’ histories before hiring or promotions. Since its launch in December 2023, the database has been searched nearly 10,000 times, with only 25 cases resulting in cross-agency matches, allowing departments to investigate candidates’ backgrounds further. The DOJ has claimed that most federal officers have no recorded instances of misconduct.
Interestingly, Trump himself initially proposed the concept of a national police accountability database. In June 2020, one month after Floyd’s death,
Trump signed Executive Order 12939, titled “Safe Policing for Safe Communities.” That order directed the Attorney General to develop a system for law enforcement agencies to share information regarding excessive force and misconduct.
Despite the NLEAD’s elimination, the DOJ stated that its Bureau of Justice Statistics published its first public report on the database in December 2024, providing anonymized and aggregated data on officer misconduct. All 90 Executive Branch agencies employing law enforcement officers, covering approximately 150,000 personnel, submitted records as required under the executive order.
In an effort to maintain some level of accountability, the DOJ announced that it had partnered with the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) and the International Justice and Public Safety Network (Nlets)
to enhance access to the National Decertification Index (NDI), a national registry of officer decertifications used by all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The Biden administration wanted the NDI’s to include expanded categories of misconduct information.
With the NLEAD now offline, law enforcement accountability returns to a patchwork of state and federal efforts— leaving some experts questioning how agencies will prevent officers with histories of misconduct from moving between jurisdictions undetected.
“The NLEAD allowed law enforcement agencies to make informed decisions by providing transparency in officer hiring processes,” said Janai Nelson, president and director-counsel of the Legal Defense Fund, when the database was first introduced. “Agencies will now lose an important tool that prevented officers with histories of abuse from moving undetected between departments.”
MVP3 Foundation’s Men of Excellence Awards honor fathers, sons, and future leaders
By Lee Eric Smith Special to The Tri-State Defender
The MVP3 Foundation’s Men of Excellence Awards and John Amos Student Grant ceremony isn’t just about honoring achievements—it’s about lighting a path for the next generation.
“These boys out here—so many don’t have fathers or guidance,” said Marie Pizano, founder of the MVP3 Foundation. “That’s why it was so important to honor these great men and inspire that connection.”
This year’s event, held recently at the Withers Collection & Gallery Museum, recognized fathers, sons and mentors who serve as role models for youth while also investing in the future of storytelling. contributor@tsdmemphis. comThe 2025 Men of Excellence honorees included:
• Bishop Edward H. Stephens Jr. and Eron J. Stephens;
• Walter Bailey Jr. and Taurus Bailey,
• Councilman Edmund Ford Sr., and Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. Each was recognized for their leadership, integrity, and commitment to uplifting others. Bailey, a Civil rights attorney and living legend, reflected on the importance of passing the torch to future generations.
“The Men of Excellence Awards isn’t just about looking good. It’s about saying to the community: pay attention, be inspired, and take action,” Bailey told The Tri-State Defender after the event. “The world is in constant need of trailblazers — people who are willing to take the baton and run with it, continuing the race for progress, justice and equity.”
The event also celebrated Joshua Casey, a student at East STEM Academy, as the recipient of the John Amos Student Grant. Named after the legendary actor best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the classic TV series Good Times, the John Amos Student
Grant was established to support young creatives who demonstrate integrity in media.
Before his death in August 2024, Amos was a longtime advocate for education and storytelling, and dedicated much of his career to uplifting positive narratives, particularly those that highlight family, resilience, and cultural history.
The grant, sponsored by Strong Women In Film, is awarded annually
to a student who shows exceptional promise in film and media, ensuring that the next generation of storytellers carries forward the values of honesty, excellence, and impactful storytelling.
Nominated by his teacher Marshonn Calvin and sponsored by Strong Women In Film, Casey’s passion for film and storytelling made him a standout choice.
“He was nominated for being a student
that embodies integrity in media,” Pizano said. “He is going to help finish out the Walter Bailey documentary while getting skills. He’s got a promising career.”
About that Walter Bailey documentary: The MVP3 Foundation launched a student film program at Westwood High School, where students will gain hands-on experience helping to complete a documentary on Walter Bailey’s life—a project designed to preserve history while teaching valuable skills.
“We are building this on a solid foundation,” Pizano said. “We’ve got all these stories to tell—to uplift, to teach—and that’s what this is all about.”
Amos and his son K.C. Jones developed an affection for Memphis over the past few years, Pizano said. Eventually, it became a deep connection and desire to make meaningful changes in the community. It’s why K.C. Jones plans to be involved with MVP3’s efforts going forward.
“Being in Memphis, there’s a strong sense of community,” said K.C. Jones, a filmmaker with a masters degree from the California Institute of the Arts. “It’s refreshing compared to bigger cities where everyone’s just trying to make it. Here, people genuinely want to uplift each other.
“Anytime you can acknowledge the youth and help them see the opportunities that they can reach—by awarding them grants and giving them accolades—it can definitely help further and motivate their careers and change their lives,” Jones said.
The Men of Excellence evening also featured a performance by Dr. Alvin McKinny, the Prime Minister of Joyful Jazz, and collaborations with the Memphis Black Arts Alliance and FathersFirst Memphis.
For more information, visit www. MVP3foundation.org or contact Marie Pizano, Founder/President, at info@ mvp3foundation.org.
Attendees at the MVP3 Foundation’s Men of Excellence Awards included Pastor Daniel Henley of Church Developers Network, Maria Pizano, founder of MVP3 Foundation, Atty. Walter Bailey Jr., KC Jones, son of late actor John Amos, and William Scott of The Money Spartans Group. (Courtesy photos)
KC Jones (left), son of the late actor John Amos, joins Memphis East T-STEM Academy teacher Marshonn Calvin, who nominated student Joshua Casey (right) for the John Amos Student Grant presented by the MVP3 Foundation.
■■ COMMUNITY
Housing seen as ‘root-cause’ solution at Memphis Housing Summit
By Lee Eric Smith Special to The Tri-State Defender
So what does a leaky roof have to do with school attendance and workplace performance—and why was that front and center at the 2025 Memphis Housing Summit?
Well, that leaky roof runs down the drywall, feeding a patch of mold. That mold sets off a child’s asthma and breathing issues, forcing the family to keep the kid home from school. A parent inevitably misses work, and the lost pay can lead to serious financial strain.
Those ripple effects underscored the summit’s central message: Housing is a “root-cause” solution that underpins everything from public health to generational wealth. Hosted at Memphis Botanic Garden on Feb. 21, the event kicked off with panelists linking stable, affordable homes to better outcomes— whether measured in school performance, lower medical bills or safer neighborhoods. The panelists were:
• Memphis Mayor Paul Young
• Ashley Cash, Director of Memphis Housing & Community Development
• Roshun Austin, Executive Director of The Works, LLC
• Ruth Ann Norton, President of the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative
Just weeks after delivering his “Era of Yes” State of the City address, Young leaned in further, saying that you can’t fix crime, poverty or educational gaps without first ensuring people have safe places to call home.
“When we talked about the ‘Era of Yes,’ it was really about saying yes to the things our community needs to
grow,” Young said. “Nobody’s saying we’re done with issues like crime, but as we address root causes — like where people can live and how they can afford it — we start changing outcomes for the entire community.
“I think housing is foundational,” he continued. “We need more ideas, more innovations, and more ways to say yes to the things that help our city grow.”
By the way, that scenario with the asthmatic child wasn’t made up. Norton has the data to back it up, referring to two studies her organization did for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
“By fixing leaks, removing lead paint, and addressing ventilation issues, we saw a 62 percent improvement in children’s school attendance – and an 88 percent improvement in parents’ work attendance,” Norton said. “This goes straight to the idea that stable housing means healthier families who can stay out of the ER and in the classroom or on the job.”
While big housing projects often hog the headlines, Austin stressed that true progress depends on uplifting smaller, locally based developers – especially those committed to “infill” projects in underinvested neighborhoods. She pointed out that most policy conversations focus on large-scale, out-of-town developers, leaving community-rooted builders overlooked.
“Often we talk about development, we think about larger developers— most of them coming from out of town, or community development corporations doing multi-million-dollar projects,” she said. “We forget about the people who are already there, who
have a tie to these places and an interest in rebuilding their own communities. And the policies of government and financial institutions often make it hard not just for the prospective home buyer, but for the home builder as well.”
HCD director Ashley Cash, who acted as moderator, underscored the need to nurture smaller, community-rooted developers – particularly those tackling infill work in distressed neighborhoods.
“There are folks out there who’ve been doing the work,” she said, “and then there’s this huge segment of what I would call emerging to mid-range developers. Maybe they’ve done a couple of projects, but they can’t quite get to that next step.”
Cash added that the city government is eager to partner with these local builders. By widening access to financing, training and supportive policy, she explained, smaller-scale developers could help revitalize blighted properties and expand affordable housing at a neighborhood level.
“We know we can’t do it alone, and we don’t want to do it alone,” she said. “It’s more beneficial when we all are working together, especially to break down barriers in this ‘era of yes.’”
While the summit covered plenty of policy details, Young also floated broader ideas such as a local guaranteed-income pilot. He called it another way to tackle “root issues” like eviction
cycles and chronic poverty.
The summit also delved into guaranteed income as a potential strategy to break the cycle of poverty and housing instability. Mayor Paul Young explained that small, predictable cash infusions – often in the range of $500 to $1,000 a month – can keep families afloat through rent spikes, unexpected medical bills or hardships, ultimately preventing more expensive crises down the road.
“If I’m able to inject $500 or $1,000 monthly into a family’s life, we don’t have to decide for them how they spend it,” Young said. “All the data shows their outcomes improve – parents miss work less, kids stay in class, and there’s less overall stress. Poverty is debilitating. If we can do something to change that trauma in people’s lives, we should figure out how to make it happen.”
Beyond policy discussions, the summit highlighted the collective effort required to reshape Memphis’ housing landscape. Sessions throughout the day addressed everything from innovative funding models to strengthening community-led development.
Attendees, including nonprofit leaders, developers and policymakers, shared insights on tackling housing disparities, ensuring affordability, and promoting long-term neighborhood stability. The event underscored a shared goal: making safe, quality housing the foundation for a stronger Memphis.
Roshun Austin of The Works, LLC, spoke to how decades of policies like “redlining” had deliberately destabilized housing in Memphis’ black communities — and how it will take better policy to help aspiring homebuyers and homebuilders realize their dreams. (Photo: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
■■ COMMUNITY
10 Black history facts to
By Brianna Smith-Herman Special to The Tri-State Defender
Memphis isn’t just home to delicious barbecue and the blues—it’s also rich in Black history that has shaped the city and the nation. From music legends to civil rights movements, Memphis holds stories of resilience, culture, and innovation. This history is not just a thing of the past; it’s a living, breathing force that continues to inspire and shape the future. From music and civil rights to business and community, the contributions of Black Memphians are woven into the city’s fabric.
Here are 10 must-know Black history facts about the Bluff City:
1. The Lorraine Motel Became a Civil Rights Landmark. The Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically assassinated on April 4, 1968, is now home to the National Civil Rights Museum. The museum stands as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality and keeps the history alive for generations to come..
2. Memphis Gave Birth to Stax Records. Stax Records, founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and his sister Estelle Axton, became a powerhouse for soul music, launching the careers of legends like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and The Staple Singers. The label’s signature sound helped define an era of Black musical excellence. This musical lineage extends today as other labels capture Memphis’ influence on hip-hop and modern Black music, as artists like Three 6 Mafia, 8Ball & MJG, Yo Gotti, Young Dolph, and Glorilla carry on the city’s tradition of musical innovation.
3. Beale Street Was Once Called ‘Black America’s Main Street’. Beale Street was the
cultural and economic hub for Black Memphians in the early 20th century. Filled with Black-owned businesses, clubs, and theaters, it became a destination for greats like W.C. Handy, B.B. King, and Ida B. Wells.
4. Ida B. Wells Fought for Justice in Memphis. Journalist and activist Ida B. Wells led an anti-lynching crusade with documentation in pamphlets and other publications after the 1892 lynching of three Black businessmen in Memphis. Her fearless reporting and activism helped lay the groundwork for the civil rights movement.
5. The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Was Founded in Memphis. In 1897, Charles Harrison Mason founded the Church of God in Christ in Memphis. COGIC has grown to become one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the United States, with a significant impact on religious and cultural life in the Black community.
6. Orange Mound: The First Black Neighborhood Built by Black People. Orange Mound, established in the 1890s, was
The Lorraine Motel
The STAX Museum
know about Memphis
the first neighborhood in the U.S. built specifically for African Americans by African Americans. It remains a historic and proud Black community.
7. The Legacy of The Four Way Restaurant. Since 1946, The Four Way, located at 998 Mississippi Blvd., has been serving up legendary soul food to the Memphis community. Founded by Irene and Clint Cleaves, it was also a meeting spot for civil rights icons like Dr. King and singers Al Green and Aretha Franklin.
8. The 1968 Sanitation Workers’ Strike. The phrase “I AM A MAN” became an iconic rallying cry during the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, where Black workers demanded better pay and working conditions. Dr. King was in Memphis to support the movement when he was assassinated.
9. The First Black Millionaire in Memphis. Robert R. Church Sr., a formerly enslaved man, became the first Black millionaire in Memphis in the late 19th century by investing in real estate and establishing Black-owned businesses. He also founded the first Black-owned bank in the city, Solvent Savings Bank, to help African Americans achieve financial independence.
10. The Oldest Black-Owned Newspaper in Memphis is Still Thriving. The TriState Defender, founded in 1951 by John H. Sengstacke, continues to publish today on a digital platform, maintaining its mission to uplift Black voices and tell stories of urgency to the community.
Ida B. Wells
Beale Street
Orange Mound
Robert R. Church Sr.
The Four Way Grill
■■ ENTERTAINMENT
Black History Month books for the smallest readers
By Terri Schlichenmeyer Special to The Tri-State Defender
Your mother tells you stories. She talks about things that happened before you were born. Grandpa does it, too, and you like to hear every tale. So why not have these stories about Black history on your shelves?
For the boy who loves looking good, “Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop” by Keenan Jones, illustrated by Ken Daley (Beach Lane Books, $18.99) is a great book to have around. One day each week, everything happens at the barber shop,and not just haircuts. This is a fun read and a cultural touchstone for boys ages 4 to 8.
Young cooks will love “Jollof Day” by Bernard Mensah, illustrated by Annalise Barber-Opp (Dial, $19.99). It’s the story of father and son in the kitchen for a special event that starts early and ends in mouthwatering goodness. Kids will love the story, and parents will love the recipe at books’ end.
The child who has activism in their soul will want “We Miss You, George Floyd” by Shannon Gibney, illustrated by Leeya Rose Jackson (University of Minnesota Press, $17.95). It’s a brief but well-done look about the life and murder of Floyd and why it’s important. Younger kids will like the pictures, but older children will understand the story best.
It’s also important for kids to know about their heroes. “Sharing the Dream” by Shelia P. Moses, illustrated by Keith Mallett (Nancy Paulsen Books, $18.99) begins with an exciting trip: The whole family is going to the March on Washington, and young Agnes knows why it’s important. Read this story to children ages 3 to 8, and be sure your older ones know about the biographies at books’ end.
Speaking of heroes, “Unstoppable John” by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Jerry Jordan (Viking, $18.99) is a slice-of-life story that’s perfect for kids who crave books. It’s the tale of young John Lewis, who loved to read almost anything he could get his hands on, but he couldn’t get a library card. Back then, libraries were only for white folks, but John knew that
if he was persistent and kept working on it, soon libraries and other places would open up to people who looked like him. This is a heroic book for 5-to-9-year-olds and a nice launching point for other, similar biographies. And finally, for the child who loves world history, “Through Sand and Salt” by Elizabeth Zunon (Bloomsbury, $18.99) is a book you’ll want to share. It’s the tale of a young Malik who travels with his father’s caravan across the Sahara desert to take salt to Timbuktu. It’s a long journey filled with danger and excitement, new friends and old lessons. Just beware, there’s a lot
Black History Month books for kids by various authors and illustrators c.2024, 2025 $17.95 - $18.99 various page counts
to this book, in a longer story that’s perhaps too much for a small child in one sitting. Break it up into two read-alouds, or give it to older kids, ages 9 to 12. They’ll enjoy it much more. If these Black History Month books aren’t enough, be sure to ask your favorite bookseller or librarian for more. For kids of all ages, they’ve got stories.
Soul and R&B universe mourns loss of Roberta Flack, Gwen McCrae and Jerry Butler
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer and pianist whose smooth vocals and intimate style made her a defining artist of the 1970s, died Monday at her home surrounded by family. She was 88. Her publicist, Elaine Schock, confirmed the news in a statement. Flack revealed in 2022 that she had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which had taken away her ability to sing.
Her death came just one day after the passing of soul-funk singer Gwen McCrae, who died Sunday at 81. McCrae, best known for hits like “Rockin’ Chair” and “Funky Sensation,” was celebrated for her enduring influence on soul and disco music. It also came just days after three-time Grammy nominee and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Jerry Butler, a premier soul singer of the 1960s, died at 85.
Butler, known as “Ice Man,” had numerous hits including “For Your Precious Love,” and “Make It Easy on Yourself.”
Butler’s niece, Yolanda Goff, told The Associated Press that Butler died of Parkinson’s disease at his home in Chicago.
tain, North Carolina, she was raised in Arlington, Virginia, where her musical roots were cultivated at the Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Flack began piano lessons at nine and earned a full scholarship to Howard University at 15. She initially studied piano before switching to voice. She graduated at 19 and later taught music and English in North Carolina after her father’s death.
Your Face” in his 1971 film Play Misty for Me. Released as a single in 1972, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and earned Flack her first Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
Flack’s success soared with her 1973 recording of “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” which became her signature hit. The song spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned her two Grammys: Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. With the win, Flack became the first artist to earn consecutive Record of the Year awards.
Her partnership with Donny Hathaway produced hits like “Where Is the Love,” which won a Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group. She continued her chart success with “Feel Like Makin’ Love” in 1974, making her the first female vocalist to top the Hot 100 in three consecutive years. Flack’s later collaborations with Peabo Bryson and Maxi Priest yielded popular tracks like “Tonight I Celebrate My Love” and “Set the Night to Music.”
“more bad news” for the music world and acknowledged how fans “are still jamming to ‘Rockin’ Chair’ all these years later.”
Born Gwen Mosley in Pensacola, Florida, McCrae began singing in church choirs before meeting George McCrae, whom she married in 1963. The couple performed as a duo and signed with Henry Stone’s Alston label. By 1970, McCrae had achieved early success with “Lead Me On.” In 1972, she released “Always On My Mind,” a song later popularized by artists including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and the Pet Shop Boys.
Roberta Flack: A Life
in Music
Born Roberta Cleopatra Flack on February 10, 1937, in Black Moun-
In Washington, D.C., Flack balanced teaching with nightclub performances, captivating audiences at local venues like Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill. Her breakthrough came when jazz pianist Les McCann discovered her and arranged an audition with Atlantic Records. Her 1969 debut album First Take initially received little attention until Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw
Throughout her career, Flack advocated for artist rights and founded the Roberta Flack School of Music, providing free music education to underprivileged youth. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999 and performed for Nelson Mandela that same year. Flack is survived by her son, musician Bernard Wright.
Gwen McCrae: Soul and Disco Legacy
Gwen McCrae, celebrated for her rich voice and lasting impact on the disco and soul music scenes, died Sunday at 81. A statement from her official brand account called her passing
Her biggest commercial success came in 1975 with “Rockin’ Chair,” which topped the R&B chart and reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. While the single remains her most widely recognized hit, many fans and DJs remember her for the 1981 club favorite “Funky Sensation,” which has endured as a dancefloor staple.
McCrae’s career spanned decades, and her other notable songs included “Keep the Fire Burning.” Despite her accomplishments, she often spoke about the lack of recognition and fair compensation for Black artists of her era.
After suffering a stroke in 2012 that left her partially paralyzed, McCrae retired from performing. Her daughter, Leah McCrae, carries on the family’s musical legacy as a solo artist and member of the group Daughters of Soul.
Jerry Butler
Gwen McCrae
Roberta Flack
■■ SPORTS
Chris Douglas-Roberts headlines 2025 Hall of Fame inductees at U of M
By Terry Davis Special to The Tri-State Defender
Former NBA player Chris Douglas-Roberts was one of a handful of former student-athletes or boosters inducted or honored by the University of Memphis’ Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Billy J. Murphy Complex on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Along with the former consensus All-American, the University’s Athletics program and the M Club Board also welcomed former athletes Altrese Hawkins, Glenn Hill Sr., Reggie Howard, and Stasia Mallin to the elite group.
The star of the class was Roberts (basketball). Roberts was a member of the 2008 Final Four team that lost to the Kansas Jayhawks in overtime. He was a consensus All-American and was drafted by the New Jersey Nets. The Tigers won two straight Conference USA Championships.
Roberts led the Tigers basketball program during its 2008 NCAA Tournament run, where the Tigers fell to the Kansas Jayhawks 75-69 in an overtime National Championship game. He averaged 23.3 points during the tournament before foregoing his senior year and declaring for the draft. He was drafted by the New Jersey Nets with the 40th overall pick. A journeyman, he played with five NBA teams, the D-League, and overseas.
“It is a great feeling. It is hard to put into words. It is an awkward feeling to talk about myself. It just says hard work pays off. When I came here, I had no expectations of being an All-American. I just wanted to get better every day,” said Douglas-Roberts.
Hawkins had an outstanding volley-
ball career for the Tigers. The all-time record holder for career kills with 1,806, she is still the only player in school history with more than 1,800 kills. As a sophomore, Hawkins ranked 40th nationally with 3.96 kills per set. She also ranked in the top 10 in Conference USA for kills (463) and points (525).
Hill was a three-time Metro Conference track & field runner-up in 1979, 1980, and 1982. He still holds two program records: one as a member of the sprint medley relay team, and the other as a member of the indoor mile relay team with Victor Lacey, Keith Golden, and Tyjuan Cowan.
Howard played two seasons of Tigers football before going undrafted in 2000. During Super Bowl XXXVIII, he picked off Tom Brady during the Carolina Panthers’ 32-29 loss to the New En-
gland Patriots. Howard also played for the New Orleans Saints and the Miami Dolphins. He finished his NFL career with 251 tackles, six interceptions, 4.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles. Howard is currently the defensive backs coach at the University of Memphis.
“It is great. It is a great opportunity, and I am excited about it. It is something I never thought about. To be here and honored in Memphis is a very special day for me,” said Howard.
A four-year letterwoman, Mallin earned United Soccer Coaches First Team All-American honors during her senior season. She was also awarded First Team All-South Region and AAC First Team All-Conference during her playing career. Mallin is currently in her third year of medical school. Among the honorees was former
Tiger forward Ken Moody, who was awarded the Larry O. Finch Award as a former student-athlete who has demonstrated exceptional qualities during their life. The honor is awarded to individuals who adhere to Finch’s commitment to nurturing academics, athletics, and community. Finch was head coach of Memphis when Moody was a senior during the 1986-87 season. Karen Fields Isaacman was honored with the Golden Tiger Award for her financial support of the University Athletic Department. The award is named in honor of former Memphis coach Dr. Cecil Humphreys, who also served as the school’s football coach, athletic director, and president. The law school also bears his name.
Phil Chamberlain was honored with the Billy J. Murphy Award as a former Memphis student-athlete who has achieved at the highest level of his or her chosen profession. The award is named after the legendary University of Memphis football coach, who holds the school record for victories with 91 wins.
Dave Woloshin was honored with the Silver M Award for his many years of exceptional service to the school’s athletic department. The recipient does not have to be a Memphis graduate. Finally, Charlotte Peterson received the Murray Armstrong Award for her long and distinguished career with the University of Memphis Athletic Department. Peterson was the school’s tennis coach from 1975 to 2007.
Former Tiger defensive back Reggie Howard was one of five former athletes inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame on Saturday, Feb. 22.
University of Memphis 2025 Hall of Fame inductee Chris Douglas-Roberts chats with Phil Chamberlain, the recipient of the 2025 Billy J. Murphy Award on the sidelines.
(Photos: Terry Davis/Tri-State Defender)
Terry Davis
By Terry Davis Special to The Tri-State Defender
PJ Haggerty and Dain Dainja scored 22 points apiece as a refreshed Memphis Tigers squad notched another conference win by easily topping Florida Atlantic 84-65 at the FedExForum on Sunday, Feb. 23.
It was the Tigers’ first game since a disappointing 84-79 loss to another American Athletic Conference foe, Wichita State, on Sunday, Feb. 16. Memphis is currently ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press Top 25 poll.
“After coming off a Wichita State loss and having a full week off to think about that game, Florida Atlantic was playing well. To hold them to only 65 points, when they have averaged 80 points per game, and to get a victory today is great,” said Memphis coach Penny Hardaway.
Memphis’ record improved to 22-5, 12-2. Florida Atlantic drops to 15-12, 8-6. The Tigers clinched a top-four seed in the AAC tournament, which begins Friday, March 14.
Dainja added 11 rebounds, four blocks, and three steals in an all-around effort. Haggerty shot 11-for-17, with all his shots coming from within the arc. He also had six rebounds. Colby Rogers added 15 points, including 3-of-6 from long range.
During the off week, the 6-foot-11 senior used the time to study the failures of the Wichita State game.
“I watched more film. I watched the Wichita State game three times to see what I was doing wrong,” said Dainja. The Tigers shook off a slow start to end the first half with a 37-32 lead. Dainja paced the offense early, scoring 11 points and grabbing seven rebounds in the period. Haggerty chipped in eight points. Both teams shot a tepid 38% in the half.
“At this point in the year, we’re not playing scrimmages at full speed. We’re trying to keep these guys healthy. If you lose a game in this conference, they penalize you. We’re getting work in but
■■ SPORTS
Tigers bounce back from tough loss, clip Owls 84-65
“The last game really hurt. I think I could have played better. It happens to everybody. I just didn’t want it to happen again. We played Memphis basketball. We pressured them and they turned it over.”
— PJ Haggerty
not scrimmaging. There was some rust today,” said Hardaway.
Memphis found its rhythm in the second half, outscoring the Owls 47-33. Haggerty scored 14 points in the period. The Tigers’ leading scorer averages 21.7 points per game and currently has the sixth-highest scoring average in Division I basketball.
The Tigers also maintained the defensive pressure they applied in the first half.
“The last game really hurt. I think I could have played better. It happens to everybody. I just didn’t want it to happen again. We played Memphis basketball. We pressured them and they turned it over,” said Haggerty.
A PJ Carter layup with 2:41 left in the game gave the Tigers their largest lead, 84-57. The play was typical of the Tigers’ second-half offense. Memphis aggressively attacked the basket, leading to 13 layups in the half. The aggressiveness
also led to several foul calls. The Tigers hit 13-of-15 free throws for the game. Moreover, Memphis wrapped up the game with a 47% shooting percentage.
Along with a lack of defense around the rim, free-throw shooting was another sore point for Florida Atlantic. As a team, the Owls hit 5-of-18 for an anemic 27.8%.
The Owls were led by Tre Carroll, who scored 20 points on 9-of-15 shooting. The junior forward also had seven rebounds and two blocks. Junior point guard Leland Walker added 14 points and a team-high four assists, while sophomore forward Kaleb Glenn contributed 15 points off the bench. Memphis will host Rice for a game on Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the FedExForum. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. on ESPN+.
Tigers PJ Haggerty was the leading scorer against Florida Atlantic in Memphis’ 84-65 win. (Noah Smith/Tri-State Defender)
Black History Month: Focusing on Black business success and A Tour of Possibilities
By Candace A. Gray Special to The Tri-State Defender
Black History Month: A time to celebrate everything that’s beautiful and black.
The top of our list? Black businesses and the entrepreneurs who birthed them and nurtured them to success. These business owners represent a small but mighty number of courageous visionaries, pioneers and risk-takers.
According to a recent study by Lending Tree, despite what the political climate says, the number of black business owners is trending up. The study states that black businesses in the United States grew from 2.7% in 2021 to 3.3% 2022, and Atlanta holds steady as the city with the most black entrepreneurs. Where does Memphis rank? The Bluff City appears in the top five, as has been the case for the last several years, coming in at No. 4 (moving up one spot from the previous year). While it’s true that black business owners disproportionately comprise only 9.3% of the Memphis’ business owner population, the numbers continue to climb. It’s with the spirit of hope, progress and aspiration that we have chosen to spotlight black-owned businesses who call Memphis home for Black History Month. Who knows? You might even see #BlackBusinessesinMemphis highlighted next month, too. Because … #blackexcellence.
Black History Lives in “A Tour of Possibilities”
Carolyn Michael-Banks started her business, A Tour of Possibilities, an in-person and virtual black historical sightseeing tour business, based on a belief that anything is possible. She first realized this was true when she was a teenager living in the projects in Bronx, New York, and had an opportunity to visit Ghana, West Africa, with her mother for a month.
“That was an experience that
changed the trajectory of my life,” Michael-Banks said.
That trip planted the seed, and her work as a tour guide for a sightseeing tour company in Washington, DC, in the late 1980s watered it.
“I was the general manager of the national company’s D.C. operation, and I added African American history to the script. My CEO was not pleased,” said Michael-Banks.
Shortly after, she found herself relocated to Savannah, Georgia, and a bit later, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There she researched and developed tour routes, wrote scripts and trained tour guides, who also covered African American history because she felt it needed to be part of the stories they shared.
The last straw, or the seminal turning point: Michael-Banks was downsized (translation: fired) and devastated. But through her pain, she birthed A Tour of Possibilities in Philadelphia.
“My company started because the contributions of African Americans in history was not being included on traditional tours, but it’s a part of the story that needed to be told,” said Mi-
chael-Banks.
“Giving tours with this historical focus gives us a platform that can be used to tell stories often not taught in our schools, at a time when laws are being passed and policies put in place to make sure this information is not taught,” she said.
Fast forward to 2025, A Tour of Possibilities (ATOP) has served thousands of tourists and Memphians, and recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in Memphis, which Michael-Banks considers her greatest accomplishment.
“Being a first-generation entrepreneur without anyone’s footsteps to follow presents its challenges,” said Michael-Banks. “One of my biggest is still being one of Memphis’ best kept secrets. Marketing can be extremely costly, and there is no guarantee on your (return on investment).
“But the rewards outweigh them all. We have a great reputation and have been well-received by the community and have consistent five-star ratings on Trip Advisor to prove that our guests are pleased with what they have intentionally chosen to experience.”
A Tour of Possibilities Today
Michael-Banks operates her African American historical sightseeing business with two independent contractors, Jackie Murray and Devin Emory. Their tours include more than a dozen historical sites throughout downtown and South Memphis.
“I believe the service we provide is needed now more than ever. For me, the awareness of our past, our resistance and resilience, is what motivates me,” said Michael-Banks.
The trio not only serves tourists but has elevated the brand by working with local business staples like MLGW, Memphis Grizzlies, the City of Memphis, Pinnacle Bank, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and the University of Memphis. ATOP has become part of these companies’ onboarding and orientation programs.
“We are excited to share the richness of Memphis’ history with not only visitors but with those who call this city home, especially employers seeking to invest in their employees’ professional development,” said Michael-Banks.
When asked what advice she would give to potential entrepreneurs, Michael-Banks said, “Learn as much about your industry, work in it (if possible) and get an understanding of what is required to make your vision come to fruition.
“Use the free resources available to you to help you put your vision on paper and develop a plan to execute,” she said. “Knowing the business side is what will keep you in business.”
Fun Fact: Travel and African American history gave us A Tour of Possibilities. But Daniel Banks helped deliver ATOP to Memphis. Michael-Banks met her husband in his hometown of Philadelphia when he was visiting from his current home in Memphis. And the rest is herstory … of the African American persuasion.
Learn more about at www.atopmemphis.com
Carolyn Michael-Banks, owner of A Tour of Possibilities, leads a group of tourists around Black historical sites in Memphis. (Courtesy photo)
NOTICE TO BIDDER(S)
Sealed bids will be received by the Shelby County Government in the Department of Housing online until 9:30 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025, as shown below:
MULTIPLE AND ENTIRELY DIFFERENT LEAD HAZARD REDUCTION AND REHABILITATION JOBS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS BID NOTICE. BIDDER(S) MAY ELECT TO BID ON ANY OR ALL OF THE JOBS IN THE NOTICE.
SEALED BID I000917 DUE ONLINE AT 9:30 a.m. Friday, March 14, 2025
1. Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing Units throughout Shelby County some of which may require the use of lead-safe work practices and techniques; and
2. Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Jobs.
Detailed specifications for the items above may be obtained through the Neighborly Portal beginning Friday, February 28, 2025 All bids will be opened and publicly read by the Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above at the Department of Housing, 6465 Mullins Station Road Memphis, TN 38134, (901) 222-7600; TTY Number (901) 222-2301; or for information in Spanish 901-222-7601. Award recommendations will be posted at the following website https://www.develop901.com/ housing upon review of the bid opening results.
As a condition precedent to bidding, each bidder must apply and qualify for a Vendor Number and Equal Opportunity Compliance (EOC) Eligibility Number prior to submitting your response.
We have now transitioned to conducting bids online through Neighborly. If you have not already signed up, you can do so at https://portal. neighborlysoftware.com/SHELBYCOUNTYTN/ contractor. All documents submitted must be current and uploaded into your Neighborly account. Bids submitted without all required documentation will be unacceptable. Paisley Pogue (Paisley.Pogue@shelbycountytn.gov or 901-222-7611) will be assisting with any questions you may have regarding uploading the documents.
All new contractors will need to register with the Neighborly portal in order for their bids to be accepted on projects. Interested contractors not currently on the contractor list should contact the Department of Housing in order to schedule a meeting with the Housing Site Inspector.
Paper copies of bids are no longer available. The Department of Housing encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 Contractors under these rehabilitation programs.
The Shelby County Government reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
By
order of
LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Scott Walkup, Administrator
LEGAL NOTICE Request for Qualifications
RFQ Number 25-0004 Re-Bid
EMERGENCY PLANNING CONSULTANT SERVICES
SMALL BUSINESS PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
PUBLIC NOTICES / CLASSIFIEDS
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Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation. For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com.
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The Tri-State Defender reserves the right to edit all copy or to reject or cancel any ad at any time. Copy change during ordered schedule constitutes new ad & new changes. Deadlines for cancellation are identical to placement deadlines. Rates subject to change. We can only offer in-house credit and NO REFUNDS are issued.
THE TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.
Sealed statements of qualifications for Emergency Planning Consultant Services will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, Memphis International Airport, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM local time, on April 9, 2025. A listing of all proposers responding will be posted to the Authority’s website one (1) hour after the response deadline. Responses to Request for Qualifications will not be publicly opened and read. A complete Request for Qualifications Packet with submittal instructions, additional data, and response format may be found on the Authority’s website on or after February 26, 2025.
A pre-proposal meeting will be held March 19, at 9:00 A.M. at the Authority’s Board Room on the Mezzanine Level, Terminal B of the Memphis International Airport, 2491 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38116. All attendees must register at https://www.eventbrite.com.
Those interested can click the following link to listen to information regarding this RFQ: Join the meeting now .
Dial in by phone
+1 872-242-8851,235392763# United States, Chicago
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 214 779 343#
All Respondents are responsible for checking
the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda, or additional information. In accordance with the Authority’s purchasing policies, the Authority will give preference to businesses located in Shelby County, Tennessee when awarding contracts and making purchases, unless prohibited by law. The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment, Domestic Preferences for Procurements, and Drug-Free Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Qualifications in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Qualifications; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.
The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.
By
order of:
Terry Blue, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000914 New and Unused 2025 Replacement Vehicles for County Fleet Services. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn. gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above-described Sealed Bid.
SEALED BID I000914 DUE DATE TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025 AT 2:30 PM CST
(SB-I000914) New and Unused 2025 Replacement Vehicles For County Fleet Services
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Microsoft Teams Need help? Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 242 041 714 723 Passcode: mg6A9Vm2
Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service.
By order of
LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY
GOVERNMENT
