Thomas Clardy Facing Potential Return to Prison After U.S. Supreme Court Declines to Hear His Appeal

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Jun 17, 2025 | CMG News, News

Nashville, TN, June 17 –  Last week, the State of Tennessee filed a motion seeking Thomas Clardy’s return to prison – capping an excruciating period during which Thomas was freed by a U.S. District Court in 2023 after serving 17 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, only to have that decision reversed by a federal appeals court. He now faces an uncertain future, potentially behind bars, again.

The State of Tennessee’s motion comes after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Thomas’ appeal of a January 2025 Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals decision that reversed a lower court’s 2023 order overturning his conviction, leaving him in limbo about his continued freedom.

“The State of Tennessee’s dogged pursuit of injustice in this case is a travesty,” said Jessica Van Dyke, Legal Director of the Tennessee Innocence Project, which has been representing Thomas since 2014. “Despite overwhelming evidence of Thomas’ innocence, the State of Tennessee continues to pursue his imprisonment. The system failed him from the beginning. He has already lost years of his life serving a 17-year prison sentence for a crime he did not commit, and after being free for 19 months and exhibiting exemplary conduct, could now have to return to prison.”

Co-counsel Scott Gallisdorfer of Bass, Berry & Sims has represented Thomas since 2019. Gallisdorfer added: “We believe in Thomas’ innocence, and we will continue to fight to clear his name and secure his freedom.”

It is important to note that the federal Court of Appeals, in reinstating the original conviction, did not consider whether Thomas actually committed the crime, nor did it dispute the weakness of the evidence, taking issue only with the district judge’s application of legal standards in relation to the effectiveness of Thomas’ original attorney’s work.

Since his release in 2023, Thomas has reunited with his family, demonstrated exemplary conduct, remained steadily employed, and deepened connections with his community.

Thomas has always unwaveringly maintained his innocence.

“I spent 17 years in prison for a crime I did not commit, and the past 19 months rebuilding relationships with my family, while living with the possibility that at any moment I could be sent back to prison for that same crime,” said Thomas Clardy. “I will continue the fight to prove my innocence until the justice system recognizes the mistake it has made and sets me free for good.”

Thomas was originally convicted in 2007 for a 2005 triple shooting at an auto body shop in Madison that resulted in the death of one person and injuries to two others.

Thomas was released in October 2023 following a ruling by a federal district judge in Nashville overturning his conviction, while declaring that the case against him was based on “paltry” and “exceedingly weak” evidence. No physical evidence has ever tied Thomas to the crime, no motive was ever presented at trial, and he was at home with his pregnant wife at the time of the shooting.

The case was chiefly based on a cross-racial eyewitness identification by a surviving victim of the shooting, who witnessed the events in the dark of night, acknowledged he only saw the side of the perpetrator’s face, and did not identify Thomas for nearly a month after the shooting. The other surviving victim of the crime identified a completely different individual from a lineup that contained Thomas. Ballistics evidence, uncovered a decade later, linked two guns used in the shooting to two other individuals, completely unrelated to Thomas.

Thomas’ case has been remanded to the federal district court for additional litigation. Meanwhile, Thomas’ attorneys have filed two clemency petitions – a petition for exoneration and a petition for commutation. Governor Bill Lee has the executive power to grant either one.

Agape Child & Family Services to Host Free Fatherhood, Singles and Marriage Workshops

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Jun 13, 2025 | CMG News, News

(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – June 13, 2025) Agape Child & Family Services’ Becoming ONE program is set to provide married couples, single individuals and fathers with relationship-building tools through their free workshops Friday, June 27, Saturday, June 28 and Saturday, July 12 at Dwelling Place Church, located at 3034 Old Austin Peay Hwy, Memphis, TN 38128.

Becoming ONE is a free marriage and relationship skills program, providing workshops that cater to married couples, singles and fathers here in the Mid-South looking to strengthen their relationships. This program provides training through workshops, couple support, financial coaching and celebrations upon completion of the program.

The fatherhood workshop, held on Saturday, June 28 and Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., offers practical tools and expert guidance for individuals seeking healthier relationships and stronger family foundations. This workshop covers topics such as keys to building and sustaining strong relationships, conflict resolution and emotional regulation, co-parenting and fatherhood engagement, personal development and decision-making.

The singles workshop, held on Saturday, June 28 and Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., provides single individuals with tools to strengthen their sense of self and relationships through a variety of topics. These topics include making your own decisions, knowing yourself, the state of relationships and smart communication.

The marriage workshop, offered to English-speaking couples on Saturday, June 28, and Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., and to Spanish-speaking couples on Friday, June 2  from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday, June 28 from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., invites couples to ignite change in their marriage together. Workshop topics include the three keys to success, danger signs and timeouts, speaker listening techniques and handling anger and stress.

Attendees must attend both sessions to receive incentives for completing the workshop.

Event Details:

What: Becoming ONE relationship workshops

When: Friday, June 27, Saturday, June 28 and Saturday, July 12, 2025

Where: Dwelling Place Church, 3034 Old Austin Peay Hwy, Memphis, TN 38128

Learn more: https://agapemeanslove.org/happenings/becoming-one-events/

About Agape Child & Family Services:

Agape Child & Family Services is a Christian-based organization providing children and families with healthy homes throughout the Mid-South. Through support and wrap-around services, Agape seeks to promote community restoration. Agape’s services include homeless services, foster care, adoption, maternity services and counseling, school-based initiatives, and community support and referrals. Agape serves more than 10,000 children, adults and families each year through its services and partnerships. For more information on Agape Child & Family Services or to find out how you can become part of the effort to adopt, foster and support the children and families in our community, visit www.agapemeanslove.org.

Agape Child & Family Services to Host Rebuilding Youth Futures Job & Resource Fair

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Jun 6, 2025 | CMG News, News

WHO: Agape Child & Family Services
WHAT: Rebuilding Youth Futures Job & Resource Fair
WHEN: Saturday, June 7, 2025, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
WHERE: Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County, 616 Adams Avenue, Memphis, TN 38105

DETAILS:

On Saturday, June 7, Agape Child & Family Services, in partnership with Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County and the American Job Center, will host their Rebuilding Youth Futures Job & Resource Fair. The fair is designed to support youth ages 14–24 who the juvenile justice system has impacted, though all youth are welcome. The event will provide direct access to jobs, training, and resources for those seeking a fresh start.

Youth will have the opportunity to connect with local employers actively hiring for summer jobs, internships and entry-level positions. Participating organizations include Regions Bank, A1 Printing, Persevere Now, Fatherhood Support Program, Temperature Control Institute, Carroll’s Restaurant, Acts Career Center, Sun of a Vegan, Phase 2 Reentry, YMCA Memphis, Durham Transportation and Goodwill Memphis.

Highlights:

• On-the-spot job and internship opportunities

• Personalized resume and interview coaching

• Hands-on job readiness workshops

• Expungement services and legal support

• Giveaways and connections to community resources

Media Opportunities:

• Interviews with leadership from Agape Child & Family Services

• Interviews with representatives from Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County and the American Job Center

• Photo and video opportunities of youth engaging directly with employers, participating in skill-building workshops, and connecting with community organizations

• This event is free and open to the public

About Agape Child & Family Services:

Agape Child & Family Services is a Christian-based organization providing children and families with healthy homes throughout the Mid-South. Through support and wrap-around services, Agape seeks to promote community restoration. Agape’s services include homeless services, foster care, adoption, maternity services and counseling, school-based initiatives, and community support and referrals. Agape serves more than 10,000 children, adults and families each year through its services and partnerships. For more information on Agape Child & Family Services or to find out how you can become part of the effort to adopt, foster and support the children and families in our community, visit www.agapemeanslove.org.

Media Contact: Ramon Johnson, The Carter Malone Group LLC, 901-278-0881, rjohnson@cmgpr.com

Antonio Jones Joins The Carter Malone Group LLC

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | May 5, 2025 | CMG News, News

(MEMPHIS, TN – May 5, 2025) The Carter Malone Group LLC (CMG) proudly welcomes Antonio Jones as the new graphic designer. Jones brings more than 20 years of experience and a versatile skill set in the visual arts to CMG and its clients.

“We are excited to welcome Antonio Jones to The Carter Malone Group as our new graphic designer. His creativity and fresh perspective will be a tremendous asset to our team and to the clients we serve,” said Deidre Malone, CMG president/CEO. “We look forward to the incredible work he’ll help us deliver.”

Throughout his career, Jones has had the opportunity to work with an array of clients, including Nicki Minaj x LOCI, Invest Fest, Tote and Carry, the University of Memphis, Jackson State University, the City of Jackson and Old Dominick Distillery. Most recently, he served as the senior art director at Redmond Design Service, where he has contributed his creative talents to a variety of high-profile clients.

“I’m thrilled to join The Carter Malone Group as a graphic designer and contribute to a team known for its creativity and impact,” said Jones. “I look forward to bringing fresh ideas and helping our clients tell their stories in powerful and visually compelling ways.”

Jones earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in fine arts from LeMoyne-Owen College.

“Antonio Jones brings a unique blend of talent, passion and innovation to our creative team. I’m excited to work closely with him as we continue to elevate the visual storytelling and design work we provide our clients,” said Kim Coleman, CMG vice president of creative services. “His addition strengthens our ability to deliver fresh, cutting-edge creative solutions.”

To learn more about The Carter Malone Group, visit www.CMGPR.com.

About The Carter Malone Group

The Carter Malone Group LLC is a full-service public relations, marketing, advertising and government relations firm located in Memphis, Tennessee. The award-winning firm is known for creating integrated marketing communications campaigns that yield measurable results. For more information on the firm, visit www.CMGPR.com.

Tri-State Defender to Host “TSD in the Community Forum” on Health Care in Memphis and Shelby County

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 29, 2025 | CMG News, News

(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – April 29, 2025) The African American community suffers from major health care issues. The Tri-State Defender believes it is important to have a public discussion focusing on diseases, mental health, the importance of fitness and the costs associated with health care.

The second Tri-State Defender TSD in the Community Forum is scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Memphis Health Center. The clinic is located at 360 E. H. Crump Blvd., Memphis, TN 38126.

The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required through Eventbrite: www.tri-statedefender.com/community

“Gaining access to sufficient health care has been a challenge for African Americans since we were first put aboard slave ships bound for America and remains so today,” said Stephanie R. Jones, The Tri-State Defender editor. “This forum will shed insight on what’s being done to help improve health outcomes for Black people in Memphis and Shelby County.”

The panel will include:

• Commissioner Miska Clay Bibbs, Shelby County Commission/Budget Chair

• Tish Towns, Vice President/Chief Administrative Officer, Regional One Health

• Dr. Robert Decolli, Chief Medical Officer, Memphis Health Center Inc.

• Richard Ransom, Director of Strategic Communications, Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare

• August White, Executive Director, Mental Health Cooperative

The discussion will be led by Lori Spicer Robertson, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital vice president and chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion officer and founder and CEO of Wundher, a digital media and membership community designed to reconnect women and mothers to their joy.

Upcoming TSD in the Community Forums include:

• Education in July

• Public Safety in August

• Government and Politics in October

• Entrepreneurship in November

TSD in the Community is sponsored by The Tri-State Defender, Memphis Health Center and Felecia Bean Catering.

About The Tri-State Defender

The Tri-State Defender (TSD) is one of the longest, continuously published newspapers in the South that caters to the news and information needs of the African American community. In January 2024, TSD transitioned to a digital format to keep readers informed quickly as news hits that affects the community. First published November 1, 1951, the weekly newspaper has been an anchor element in the multi-platform delivery of news and information. TSDMemphis.com is now the primary source for news along with the TSD Daily Digital and social media platforms. To learn more about The Tri-State Defender, visit www.tri-statedefender.com.

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For more information or if you would like to interview someone from The Tri-State Defender, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.

Hattiloo Theatre Hosts Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre Saturday, April 12

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 10, 2025 | CMG News, News

WHO:            Hattiloo Theatre

WHAT:           Hattiloo’s Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre

WHEN:          Saturday, April 12, 6 p.m.

WHERE:        Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., Memphis, TN 38104

DETAILS:

On Saturday, April 12, modern performing arts venue Hattiloo Theatre will host Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre. Elevated for a sophisticated audience, the immersive experience blends fine dining, live musical performances and the playful spontaneity of the childhood game musical chairs. Guests can expect the following during Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre:

• Elevated multi-course dinner
• Live musical performances from the Hattiloo House Band
• Musical chairs-style seat swapping
• Opportunity to meet new people and make new connections

The festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with cocktail hour. Seating will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m., so on-time arrival is highly suggested.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

Media representatives are invited to cover this event. Interview opportunities with Hattiloo leadership and attendees will be available.

To learn more about the Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre and to purchase tickets, visit www.hattiloo.org/musical-chairs-dinner-theatre. There are only a few tickets left.

About Hattiloo Theatre:

Founded in 2006 by Ekundayo Bandele and named in honor of his two daughters—Hatshepsut (Hatti) Bandele and Oluremi (Loo) Bandele—Hattiloo Theatre is the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South and one of four free-standing Black theatres in the country. The performing arts theatre produces shows and programs that depict Black life and give audiences an authentically cultural experience. To learn more about Hattiloo Theatre, visit www.hattiloo.org.

Media Contact: Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, 901.278.0881 and jsharp@cmgpr.com.

Promotional Video: https://youtu.be/wd7J2T_nAUs?si=3Ss4YP-c1Q2EvF2u

Journey Northeast Academy Groundbreaking Ceremony

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Mar 20, 2025 | CMG News, News

March 20, 2025

WHO:             Journey Community Schools (JCS)

WHAT:           Journey Northeast Academy Groundbreaking Ceremony

WHEN:          Saturday, March 22, 2025, 10 a.m.

WHERE:        1170 Mullins Station Rd., Memphis, TN 38134

DETAILS:

On Saturday, March 22, Journey Community Schools (JCS), will host a groundbreaking ceremony for their new Journey Northeast Academy at 10 a.m. at 1170 Mullins Station Rd., Memphis, TN 38134. Opening Fall 2025 under the leadership of JCS’ new founding principal Reggie D. Jackson, Journey Northeast Academy is open to kindergarten and 1^st grade students in the Sycamore View community.

State and local elected officials and media outlets can RSVP at bit.ly/JCSGroundbreaking.

To learn more about JCS, visit www.myjourneycs.org.

About Journey Community Schools

Journey Community Schools (JCS) works to develop a community of lifelong learners who excel in all areas of life. JCS engages families and community partners in their scholars’ learning journey; cultivates a safe, positive and joyous learning environment; and empowers teachers and leaders with support to deliver an inclusive, innovative and rigorous education. To learn more about Journey Community Schools, visit www.myjourneycs.org.

Media Contact: Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, 901.278.0881 and jsharp@cmgpr.com

Hattiloo’s School’s Out Spring Break Theatre Camp Performance — Today, March 14

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Mar 14, 2025 | CMG News, News

March 14, 2025

WHO:            Hattiloo Theatre

WHAT:           Hattiloo’s School’s Out Spring Break Theatre Camp Performance

WHEN:          (TODAY) Friday, March 14, 4 p.m.– 4:45 p.m.

WHERE:        Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., Memphis, TN 38104

DETAILS:

Today, March 14, modern performing arts venue Hattiloo Theatre will host a performance to conclude the Hattiloo’s School’s Out Spring Break Theatre Camp. The camp is a fun and engaging week that explores acting, dancing and storytelling. Camp participants use these art forms as conduits for self-discovery, personal growth and self-expression, and the week culminates in a final showcase. The participants between the ages of 6 and 13 will perform two productions they created during the camp – “African Joy” and “Classroom Dreams.”

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

This event is not open to the public. Media representatives are invited to cover this event. Interview opportunities with Hattiloo leadership and camp participants will be available.

To learn more about Hattiloo Theatre and its upcoming productions and programs, visit www.hattiloo.org.

About Hattiloo Theatre:

Founded in 2006 by Ekundayo Bandele and named in honor of his two daughters—Hatshepsut (Hatti) Bandele and Oluremi (Loo) Bandele—Hattiloo Theatre is the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South and one of four free-standing Black theatres in the country. The performing arts theatre produces shows and programs that depict Black life and give audiences an authentically cultural experience. To learn more about Hattiloo Theatre, visit www.hattiloo.org.

Media Contact: Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, 901.278.0881 and jsharp@cmgpr.com.

Tickets Now On Sale for Hattiloo Theatre’s Next Production “Thoughts of a Colored Man”

by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Feb 20, 2025 | CMG News, News

(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – February 20, 2025) Modern performing arts venue Hattiloo Theatre is currently selling tickets for its upcoming production “Thoughts of a Colored Man.” The production will run from Friday, March 14, until Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., Memphis, TN 38104.

Written by playwright, poet, actor, director and producer Keenan Scott II and directed by Lawrence Blackwell, “Thoughts of a Colored Man” tells the individual stories of seven Black, multi-generational men, who live in the same Brooklyn neighborhood, through slam poetry, prose and song. This show made history in 2021 as the first Broadway play written, directed, starring and produced by Black men.

“’Thoughts of a Colored Man’ is a testament to the richness and depth of Black storytelling, and we are honored to bring this compelling work to the Hattiloo stage,” said Ekundayo Bandele, founder and CEO of Hattiloo Theatre.

Cast members for “Thoughts of a Colored Man” include:

• P.A. Bomani as Wisdom
• Adrian Lee as Happiness
• Emmanuel McKinney as Passion
• Matthew “Esteis” Marseille as Anger
• Robrecus Parker as Lust
• Rodney Saulsberry II as Love
• Timothy Woods as Depression

To learn more about “Thoughts of a Colored Man” and to purchase tickets, visit www.hattiloo.org/season-18.

About Hattiloo Theatre:

Founded in 2006 by Ekundayo Bandele and named in honor of his two daughters—Hatshepsut (Hatti) Bandele and Oluremi (Loo) Bandele—Hattiloo Theatre is the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South and one of three free-standing Black theatres in the country. The performing arts theatre produces shows and programs that depict Black life and give audiences an authentically cultural experience. To learn more about Hattiloo Theatre, visit www.hattiloo.org.

For more information or if you would like to interview someone from Hattiloo Theatre, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.