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

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

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

Antonio Jones Joins The Carter Malone Group LLC

(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

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

(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

Hattiloo Theatre Hosts Musical Chairs Dinner Theatre Saturday, April 12

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

Journey Northeast Academy Groundbreaking Ceremony

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 1st 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

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

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.

Agape Child & Family Services Hosts Agape Fest Saturday, April 5 [NEW LOCATION DETAILS]

Agape Child & Family Services Hosts Agape Fest Saturday, April 5 [NEW LOCATION DETAILS]

WHO: Agape Child & Family Services

WHAT: Agape Fest

WHEN: Saturday, April 5, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.

WHERE: (NEW LOCATION) Sycamore View Church of Christ, 1910 Sycamore View Rd, Memphis, TN 38134

On Saturday, April 5 from 1 to 5 p.m., Agape Child & Family Services will bring the Memphis community together for Agape Fest 2025, a celebration of family and unity.

Due to the impending inclement weather, Agape has moved the location of the festival indoors to Sycamore View Church of Christ, located at 1910 Sycamore View Rd, Memphis, TN 38134.

Formerly known as the Faith Family Fun Festival, Agape Fest has evolved into one of the city’s most anticipated spring events. It offers a diverse lineup of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local food vendors and community-focused programming designed to strengthen families and foster unity. Dozens of local churches from all denominations will come together to participate in Agape Fest.This year’s festival will be hosted by iHeart Radio personality Stan Bell, who will also be on the 1’s and 2’s, and speaker and author Monique Scrip. The festival will also feature:

  • Live performances from local musicians:
    • Agape Children and Youth Choir
    • Bluff City Praise
    • Cordova High School Choir
    • Highland Youth Group (HYG) Student Worship Team
    • Julian Cross
    • Kooler Kids
    • Perfecting Gifts
    • Princeton James Productions
    • United Voice Worship
    • Young Actors Guild
    • Yung Titan with Corey Curtis and B-Radical
  • Interactive games, crafts and giveaways for families
  • A variety of local vendors

Agape Fest is proudly sponsored by BluSky Restoration Contractors.

Notable speakers and attendees include:

  • David Jordan, President and CEO, Agape Child & Family Services
  • Stephen Green, Chief Development Officer, Agape Child & Family Services
  • Lance Villio, Executive Director, Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
  • Pastor/Colonel James Kirkwood, Community Outreach Programs Manager, Memphis Police Department and Board Member, Agape Child & Family Services
  • Pastor Josh Ross, Sycamore View Church
  • Pastor Myron Thomas, Innovation Church
  • Pastor Sean Lucas, Independent Presbyterian Church
  • Pastor Rolando Rostro, Iglesia Nueva Vida

 Media Opportunities:

This event is free and open to the public. Media representatives are invited to cover this event. Interview opportunities with Agape leadership.

To learn more about Agape Child & Family Services, visit www.agapemeanslove.org.

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

Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_RXfZptkoQy59DDnCiNI8hJA6mBDWZP5/view?usp=share_link

 

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

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

(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.

City of Memphis is seeking comments for road improvements as a part of the Memphis Safety Action Plan

City of Memphis is seeking comments for road improvements as a part of the Memphis Safety Action Plan

(February 20, 2025 – Memphis, TN) The City of Memphis Safety Action Plan seeks to improve local roadway safety by significantly reducing or eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries through recommendations focused on all road users. This plan needs public input from all Memphis road users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, commercial vehicle operators and personal conveyance and micro-mobility users.

You can take part by:

Attending public engagement meetings:

  • Monday, February 24, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
    • Benjamin Hooks Library, Meeting Room C, 3030 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN 38111
    • Send your RSVP to Regina Jones at rhjones@cmgpr.com
  • Monday, March 3, 2025, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Food will be provided for the community meeting. Check the website for information.

Visit MemphisSafetyActionPlan.com to:

  • Provide your valuable input
  • Learn more about the plan
  • Explore recent crash data statistics

Memphis residents are invited to attend one of the public meetings or visit the website and provide critical input.

“It’s important that we hear from individuals who can share their concerns about streets and roadways they view as unsafe in Memphis,” said Douglas Swett, PE, RSP1, Kimley-Horn.

Through a multifaceted approach, the plan aims to address various factors contributing to accidents, prioritize interventions based on data-driven insights, involve the community in decision-making processes, identify specific projects to enhance safety, and secure support from leadership to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability.

The Memphis Safety Action Plan can play a crucial role in improving road safety for all people in the City. Since the Memphis Safety Action Plan is focused on local roadway safety, interstates and expressways will not be considered in the plan’s development. This plan is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program and will meet all requirements established in that program.

Job Description: Graphic & Web Designer – Full Time

Job Description: Graphic & Web Designer – Full Time

We’re looking for a creative and dedicated individual to join our team.

The Carter Malone Group is looking for a full-time graphic designer to assist clients build their brands across physical and digital platforms, connecting people to products and services that enrich their lives.

The successful candidate would be part of a design team that works with local and national brands on a diverse range of projects—from websites and visual identities to physical print pieces.

Who You Are:

• Enjoy working in a team environment.

• Positive attitude and genuine desire to understand and serve our clients.

• Great at establishing, developing and communicating your ideas.

• Highly creative and versatile—able to produce effective design solutions for diverse audiences.

• Proven ability to work well in a fast-paced environment and can handle multiple projects.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Excellent working knowledge of graphic design fundamentals and communications.

• Extensive experience in Adobe XD, InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop.

• Critical thinking mindset and keen attention to detail.

• Degree or diploma in graphic design or similar program.

• Basic understanding of HTML, CSS and web development considered an asset.

• Experience in animation, videography and photography considered an asset.

We have a relaxed and positive atmosphere, a bright and open office environment, continually invest in training opportunities and technology, and provide healthcare & benefits package.

Please email your resume and portfolio stating why you would be a great teammate to: Brittany Malone, Vice President of Business Operations, at bsmalone@cmgpr.com by January 17, 2025

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $20.00-$25.00 per hour

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Graphic design: 3 years (required)

Application deadline: start date: 1/6/2025