by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 7, 2026 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, TN – April 6, 2026) The Memphis community is invited to gather for a powerful day of faith, fellowship and restoration at Worship on the River, a Christian worship event taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tom Lee Park on the TVA Lawn in downtown Memphis.
Worship on the River is a free, family-friendly event designed to bring people together across churches and communities for a shared experience of worship, prayer, healing and renewal. Set along the Mississippi River, the event will offer a welcoming space for spiritual encouragement and holistic support.
Throughout the day, attendees can expect:
- Live worship music
- Healing, restoration and renewal prayer
- Community resources and holistic support services
- Food trucks and fellowship
- A safe, uplifting environment for all ages
“Worship on the River is about creating space for God to move while bringing the community together in love, prayer and purpose,” Andria Marshall event founder shared. “We believe this gathering will be a source of encouragement and healing for Memphis.”
Free and open to the public, the event’s mission is to foster unity, hope and spiritual renewal while connecting individuals and families with practical resources that support overall well-being, including mind, body and spirit.
Tom Lee Park’s TVA Lawn provides a scenic and accessible setting, offering a meaningful backdrop for worship and community connection along the riverfront.
Community members, churches, families and visitors are encouraged to attend and participate in this day of worship and service.
For more information or event updates, visit www.worshipontherivermemphis.org.
About Worship on the River Memphis
Worship on the River Memphis is a Christian faith-based experience of worship, prayer and music. Additionally, community resources are available to promote holistic support for individuals and families across our community. For more information, visit www.worshipontherivermemphis.org.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 2, 2026 | CMG News, News
MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 2, 2026 – The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) will host its 2026 Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase on Wednesday, April 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Memphis University Center Ballroom.
This dynamic, half-day event will bring together some of Memphis’ most influential women leaders and 36 nonprofit grantee partners for powerful conversations centered on Vision. Collaboration. and Impact. — Stronger Investments for Stronger Communities. The event underscores WFGM’s commitment to encouraging philanthropy, advancing women’s leadership, and investing in programs that expand economic and social mobility for women and families.
As part of its ongoing impact, WFGM is granting $1.9 million this fiscal year to support 36 nonprofit organizations working across the community including investments in advocacy and research. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with these partners during the Grants Showcase and learn more about the innovative programs advancing outcomes for women and families throughout Memphis.
“The Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase is an opportunity to highlight the organizations and leaders shaping a stronger Memphis,” said Shante K. Avant, President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. “We see WFGM as connective tissue—bringing partners together to align vision, strengthen collaboration, and drive intentional investment that creates stronger communities across our city.”
The morning will begin with registration, a continental breakfast, and the Grants Showcase from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Additional showcase engagement times will take place between symposium sessions, allowing guests to connect with nonprofit organizations and explore the breadth of work happening across the community.
Individual tickets are available for $50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website: Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase.
Session One, Vision: Shaping Memphis’ Next Chapter, starts at 10 a.m. and explores how bold leaders are shaping the future of Memphis through strategy, foresight, and purpose-driven leadership. This discussion highlights how vision strengthens communities, sparks investment, and expands pathways to greater opportunity
Panelists – Vision: Shaping Memphis’ Next Chapter
- Roshun Austin, President/CEO, The Works, Inc.
- Carissa Hussong, Executive Director, The Metal Museum
- Lisa Lisson, President of Air Operations, FedEx
Moderator
- Rachel Knox, Senior Program Officer for Arts and Culture, Hyde Family Foundation
Session Two, Collaboration: The Power of Partnership, starts at 11:15 a.m. and offers the opportunity to discover how partnerships move communities forward. This conversation highlights how women leaders collaborate across sectors to align resources, strengthen neighborhoods, and ensure investments reach the people who need them most.
Panelists – Collaboration: The Power of Partnership
- Sondra Howell, SVP of Workforce Development, Greater Memphis Chamber
- Sarah Lockridge-Steckel, Co-Founder and CEO, The Collective Blueprint
- Tate Wilson, CEO, Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation
Moderator
- Anna McQuiston, Executive Director, MidSouth Development District
Session Three, Impact: Turning Vision into Results, starts at noon, with a focus on measuring what matters. This conversation explores how leaders measure progress, steward investments, and ensure resources create meaningful outcomes for communities across Memphis.
Panelists – Impact: Turning Vision into Results
- Penelope Huston, Chief Communications Officer, The City of Memphis
- Sylvia Martinez, CEO, Girls Inc. of Memphis
- Cynthia Bradford, System Community Involvement Manager, Baptist Memorial Health Care
Moderator
- Kandace Stewart, Vice President, Business Operations & Head of External Affairs, Memphis Grizzlies, WFGM Board of Directors.
2025/2026 Women’s Foundation For a Greater Memphis Grantee Partners
Case Management and Wraparound Services
- Hope House Day Care
- MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association)
- Neighborhood Christian Centers, Inc.
- Room in the Inn-Memphis
- Salvation Army of Memphis and the Mid-South
- Urban Strategies, Inc.
Job Skills, Employment and Entrepreneurship
- Advance Memphis
- Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis
- DeNeuville Learning Center
- Dress for Success Memphis
- HopeWorks, Inc.
- Southwest Tennessee Community College Foundation
- WCA of Greater Memphis
Early Childhood Development
- ALLMemphis
- Early Success Coalition
- Families Matter
- Porter-Leath
Youth Development and Employment
- A Step Ahead Foundation
- Booker T. Washington Middle and High School
- Emmanuel Center, Inc.
- Girl Scouts Heart of the South
- Girls Inc. of Memphis
- JIFF (Juvenile Intervention & Faith-based Follow-up)
- Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South
- Kids in Technology
- Memphis Black Arts Alliance
- Memphis Inner City Rugby
- Mustard Seed Inc.
- New Ballet Ensemble and School
- STREETS Ministries
- University of Memphis Research Foundation-Herff-GEE
- Vance Avenue Youth Development Center
Financial Education and Asset Building
- Community Legal Center
- Knowledge Quest
- RISE Memphis
- South City a Community of Opportunity Revitalization Empowerment (SCORE CDC)
About The Women’s Foundation For A Greater Memphis
For over three decades, the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) has played a major role as a backbone organization, aligning people and resources and coordinating community-based services through the two-generation approach to reduce poverty. WFGM is an organization of women helping women break the cycle of poverty through philanthropy, leadership and collaboration.
Philanthropy. Since its inception, WFGM has awarded $39 million to more than 668 programs involving more than 185 local non-profits, including investments in advocacy and research.
For more information, visit: https://wfgm.org/
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Mar 13, 2026 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, TN – March 13, 2026) A powerful new community-centered event is preparing to take the stage in Memphis with a mission to celebrate the men who quietly shape futures every single day.
The UNC Awards, which will be held Sunday, June 14, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Avenue Downtown Event Center, is an event that recognizes mentors, mentorship programs, and everyday men who exemplify leadership, service and a commitment to uplifting others throughout the community.
“UNC” is short for uncle, which is traditionally a relative who is connected by blood or marriage. But in the context of this event, “UNC” has evolved into someone who loves like a parent, advises like a friend and shows up right when it matters most. He is a guide, a protector, a voice of wisdom and often the steady presence young people need to thrive.
“Mentorship is one of those quiet superpowers,” said Antonio Jones, event organizer. “It builds confidence, creates opportunity and shapes futures. The UNC Awards was created to shine a very loud spotlight on the individuals who have been doing this work with heart, consistency and purpose.”
The event will begin with a cocktail hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., the award ceremony will start at 6:15 p.m. WREG News Channel 3’s sports anchor Colin Cody will serve as the host and R&B artist Adria Glenn will be performing.
The UNC Awards will honor:
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Individual mentors making a direct impact
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Structured mentorship programs serving local youth
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Community leaders who embody the UNC spirit
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Every day men who consistently show up for the next generation
By celebrating these role models, the UNC Awards aims to elevate the culture of mentorship and inspire more men to step into leadership roles within their communities.
Tickets are available at theuncawards.eventbrite.com, and the dress code is casual to semi-formal.
For more information or if you would like to interview someone from the UNC Awards team, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group, LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Feb 25, 2026 | CMG News, News
MOSCOW, TN (February 24, 2026) — The City of Moscow, Tennessee is partnering with MVP3 Foundation and its founder, Marie Pizano, who will serve as the Director of Film Development for Moscow, Tennessee, focusingon growing film and creative industry opportunities in the region.
The Director of Film Development role is a volunteer, non‑salaried, non‑governmental position created to help connect Moscow and surrounding communities with film, media and creative projects that can drive jobs, tourism, youth opportunities and community development. This position expands MVP3’s mission and aligns with Mayor Kristopher Tims’ plans by helping to attract film projects, training opportunities and investment to the area. Pizano has written a script for a feature film set in Moscow, planned to be filmed there as part of a broader slate of original films and series to be produced through MVP3 Network, further promoting Moscow and the region in a positive light.
“For more than 20 years, I’ve been working to connect film, music and business in a way that truly serves our communities,” said Pizano. “We’ve seen incredible student growth and community response. Now, with the City of Moscow’s support and partners across the state, we are building the infrastructure to consistently create strong jobs in film, TV, music and the creative industries.”
An informational community and stakeholder briefing will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Fat Charlie’s Speakeasy, located at 107 Harbor Town Square, Memphis, TN 38103. The event will introduce the vision of the MVP3 Trifecta Hub to leaders and residents from District 8 and surrounding areas, outlining how this step‑by‑step plan can deliver long‑term job creation and positive community impact for West Tennessee. Attendees will also learn how Moscow aims to be “on the map” as a film location, showcasing its unique settings and community as an attractive destination for future productions.
The February 25 event will:
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Explain the MVP3 Trifecta Hub concept and its regional goals
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Highlight potential economic, tourism, and workforce benefits for District 8
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Share how the ecosystem (Foundation, Network, Music Group, Hub) will create pathways for students into film, TV, music, and creative careers
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Invite collaboration and support from local leaders, businesses, educators, and community members
“We want to put Moscow on the map in innovative ways,” said Mayor Kristopher Tims. “By welcoming film and television production, particularly projects that can naturally leverage Moscow’s historic antebellum homes and distinctive natural landscape to create atmosphere without costly set construction, we’re not only supporting the arts, but we’re opening the door to new jobs, workforce development and regional collaboration that will benefit our community for years to come. We’re excited to have someone with Marie’s experience and passion helping to champion this effort.”
The MVP3 Trifecta Hub (The Hub), a project led by the MVP3 Foundation,, is being developed as a creative and economic engine for West Tennessee. The MVP3 Trifecta Hub brings film, music and community projects together to help communities heal through the arts, while creating pathways to real careers and economic growth. The Hub will serve as:
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Studio and production space for MVP3 Network and its production offices
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Program and community space for the MVP3 Foundation’s educational, cultural and outreach initiatives
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A platform to support film, TV, music, entrepreneurship and tourism in the region
MVP3 also supports students and emerging talent through grants and other positive opportunities, and that momentum continues to grow. In addition, other production companies are preparing to move into the region, further enhancing the ecosystem and strengthening Moscow and West Tennessee’s ability to become a truly sustainable and thriving production hub.
MVP3 Foundation has expanded into Clarksdale, Mississippi and is launching its hub model in Illinois and other locations. Over the past year, MVP3 programs have seen a 400% increase in student participation, filling critical gaps in creative education and workforce pathways.
About the City of Moscow, Tennessee
Moscow, Tennessee is a small rural community in Fayette County, located just east of Memphis, with historic charm, open land, and a close‑knit, family‑oriented atmosphere. The city iscommitted to smart economic development and aims to put Moscow “on the map” as a film‑friendly location and production destination for projects seeking authentic Southern settings. To learn more, visit www.cityofmoscowtn.org.
About Marie Pizano:
Marie Pizano is an award-winning producer, best known for the documentary Momo: The Sam Giancana Story, and the author behind the book series From Barefoot to Stilettos™. Her latest release, the 2025 workbook 12 Steps to Finding Your Yes, expands on her mission of empowerment. A pioneer in her own right, Pizano was the first person to record an audiobook at the legendary Royal Studios, working alongside Grammy-winning producer Boo Mitchell. Her creative endeavors have earned endorsements from iconic figures, including actor Morgan Freeman, Stax Records legend Al Bell and Chicken Soup for the Soul co-creator Jack Canfield.
Expanding into visual storytelling, she is currently set to release the comic book novel Stiletto: The Powerhouse Baroness. This project was created in collaboration with a former Marvel and DC writers, pencilers and colorists, including Marvel legend Ron Frenz. Ron Frenz is best known for his iconic work on The Amazing Spider-Man, Thor and for co-creating the character Spider Girl. Pizano is also actively developing the screenplay and film adaptation for the project.
For more information, visit:
by Brian Malone | Feb 2, 2026 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – January 27, 2026) The Tri-State Defender will host its next TSD in the Community Forum, focusing on African American entrepreneurship. The forum is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, at 6 p.m. at the Raleigh Library, located at 3452 Austin Peay Hwy, Memphis, TN 38128.
This free, public event will bring residents and local business owners together to address concerns, share information and discuss strategies for improving the local economy and supporting local businesses in Memphis and Shelby County.
The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required through Eventbrite: www.tri-statedefender.com/community
“Entrepreneurship has always been a powerful driver of economic growth, resilience and generational wealth in Memphis and Shelby County,” said Stephanie R. Jones, editor of the Tri-State Defender. “This forum is designed to elevate Black-owned businesses, share real strategies for success and create meaningful connections that help entrepreneurs not just survive, but thrive.”
The panel will include:
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Alandas Dobbins, CEO/Owner, Oteka Technologies
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Jozelle Booker, President, MMBC Continuum
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Kevin Kolhelm, CEO/Owner, Groovy Greyhound Coffee & Creamery
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Cheonshae Brown, CEO/Owner, Little Scholars Academy Horn Lake, MS
Lori Spicer Robertson will lead the discussion.
Upcoming TSD in the Community Forums include:
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Women in Leadership — Wednesday, March 4, 2026
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Health and Wellness — Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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Government/Politics — Wednesday, June 3, 2026
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Education — Wednesday, July 1, 2026
TSD in the Community is sponsored by The Tri-State Defender.
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 affect the community. First published on 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.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Dec 16, 2025 | CMG News, News
(December 15, 2025 – Memphis, TN) Criminal charges against former Memphis Academy of Health Sciences Executive Director Corey D. Johnson were dismissed by a Shelby County judge in November of this year.
Johnson has always maintained his innocence. “I am thankful that these criminal cases were dismissed and I can move on with my life,” said Corey D. Johnson. “This has been a very trying 6 years. My faith and support from my family and friends have sustained me. I’m ready to put this behind me, secure the next professional opportunity and move on with my life.”
In November 2021, a Shelby County Grand Jury indicted Johnson for theft of property over $250,000. Both cases were dismissed in court on November 18, 2025.
“Our office is happy to see this case dismissed, and the facts are exactly what our client has always stated,” said Attorney Curtis D. Johnson Jr., Johnson and Johnson, PC. “We thank all the parties involved, especially those who believed that ultimately truth would prevail, and will have no further comment on this matter.”
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Dec 12, 2025 | CMG News, News
Memphis, TN – December 12, 2025 – Xfinity today announced the launch of new national video plans with all-in pricing, designed to deliver simplicity, transparency, and unbeatable value for customers. Available to new and existing customers, all packages come with an included X1 4K TV box and award-winning voice remote, making it effortless for customers to find and enjoy more of the content they love, wherever it lives. Only Xfinity includes unique features like Multiview, Enhanced 4K, Fan View and StreamStore, to deliver the ultimate viewing experience.
These new video plans deliver the best value in entertainment and, when combined with Xfinity’s recently launched national Internet plans that include a year of unlimited mobile for 12 months, can offer customers savings of over $70 per month for a year when compared to AT&T and Verizon.
“Like we did with Xfinity Internet, we’ve simplified and reimagined our video packages, making it easy and hassle-free for our customers to enjoy great content on the best and most innovative entertainment experience,” said Steve Croney, Chief Operating Officer and incoming Chief Executive Officer, Connectivity & Platforms, Comcast. “When combined with Internet and mobile, our new video packages offer unmatched value, plus there’s even more opportunity for savings with bundles like Xfinity StreamSaver.”
Starting today, every new Xfinity TV plan features or includes:
- Access to the Best Viewing Experience and Most Innovative Features: Every plan now comes with an X1 4K TV box and Xfinity’s award-winning voice remote, Multiview, Enhanced 4K, StreamStore and Fan View – all included in the package price.
- Everyday Pricing with New Ways to Save: Each plan offers one simple, all-in price with major fees included and no contracts or commitments required. Plus, customers can save $10 every month when they bundle their video package with Xfinity Internet.
- More Flexibility for Customers to Watch on Their Terms: The most popular video plans now include 300 hours of DVR storage. Plus, with the Xfinity Stream app, customers can watch their channels at home or on-the-go via supported third party platforms like Apple TV, Fire TV, iOS, Android, Roku, Xumo TV, and more.
Monthly pricing for the new plans is as follows:
- TV Core: $65/month ($55 with multiproduct discount) with 10+ channels, X1, and 50 hours of DVR
- Sports & News TV: $90/month ($80 with multiproduct discount) with 50+ channels, X1, 300 hours of DVR, and Peacock included
- World Soccer Ticket: $95/month ($85 with multiproduct discount) with 55+ channels, X1, 300 hours of DVR, and Peacock included
- TV Plus: $105/month ($95 with multiproduct discount) with 125+ channels, X1, and 300 hours of DVR
- TV Premium: $135/month ($125 with multiproduct discount) with 185+ channels, X1, and 300 hours of DVR
The new TV plans are the latest example of Xfinity’s efforts to reinvent its entire product portfolio with simpler pricing, more value, and new ways to bundle and save.
New Video Plans Join New National Xfinity Internet Packages
Earlier this year, Xfinity launched all-in pricing and a five-year price guarantee for its Internet packages, which all now include unlimited data and an advanced Xfinity WiFi gateway at no extra cost. Additionally, Xfinity StreamSaver, a streaming bundle of Netflix, Apple TV+ and Peacock, gives customers an easy way to save over 40% on some of the most popular streaming services.
To learn more about Xfinity’s new TV plans, please visit Xfinity.com.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
by Brian Malone | Nov 4, 2025 | CMG News, News
Accomplished public administrator La Sonya Hall, Ph.D., has officially announced her candidacy for Shelby County Clerk. Her campaign team will host an official campaign kick-off on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Perch 74 Bistro, located at 813 Ridge Lake Blvd, Memphis, TN 38120. Supporters, community members and media are invited to attend.
With over 25 years of leadership experience in local government and a proven record of transforming underperforming organizations, Dr. Hall is ready to bring efficiency, transparency and accountability to the Clerk’s Office.
Dr. Hall has served under four mayors — Memphis Mayor Dr. W.W. Herenton, Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, the late Interim Memphis Mayor Myron Lowery and currently Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris — in leadership roles that demanded strategic thinking, operational expertise and integrity. Throughout her distinguished career, she has built a reputation as a competent, ethical and policy-led leader who knows how to strengthen systems, improve service delivery and restore public trust in government.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Hall successfully led the Whitehaven vaccination site, one of the most impactful public health initiatives in Shelby County. Her leadership ensured that thousands of residents had safe and equitable access to life-saving vaccines at a critical moment for the community. She also served as the interim director of the Shelby County Health Department during the height of the pandemic.
A respected leader and trainer, Dr. Hall has trained government officials and county clerks across the State of Tennessee, strengthening local government performance statewide. She is Lean Six Sigma trained, underscoring her commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
About Dr. La Sonya Hall
Dr. La Sonya Hall is a seasoned government administrator with more than 25 years of leadership experience in public service. She has successfully managed major programs and departments under four mayoral administrations, including leading the Whitehaven vaccination site during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Hall is Lean Six Sigma trained and holds degrees from Jackson State University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Mississippi. She is married to Dr. Alfred L. Hall, and together they are the proud parents of two adult daughters, Alia and Alencia. Dr. Hall is committed to advancing efficiency, transparency and accountability in Shelby County government. For more information, visit www.lasonyahall.com.
For more information or if you would like to interview Dr. Hall, contact Jennifer Sharp or British Solomon, The Carter Malone Group LLC, at 901.278.0881, jsharp@cmgpr.com or bsolomon@cmgpr.com.
by Brian Malone | Oct 31, 2025 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – October 31, 2025) Local African American media organization, The Tri-State Defender (TSD), has announced finalists for the 2025 Best In Black (BIB) Awards. The winners will be announced during the ceremony Thursday, November 6, 7–9 p.m. at the Central Station Hotel, 545 S Main St., Memphis, TN 38103.
The Best In Black Awards recognizes some of the most outstanding Black businesses, community organizations, entrepreneurs and individuals in the Mid-South. Click here for the full list of finalists.
“We’re excited to host the Best In Black Awards to celebrate Black excellence in our community,” said TSD Editor Stephanie Jones. “The mission of Best In Black is to celebrate Black-owned and operated businesses. We look forward to recognizing and amplifying our honorees.”
Tickets are now on sale to attend the Best In Black Awards for $75 (taxes and fees not included).
“TSD is happy to continue this awards program that recognizes Black businesses, organizations and individuals in the Mid-South,” said TSD Board of Directors President Calvin Anderson. “Congratulations to this year’s finalists. We can’t wait to recognize our phenomenal honorees and celebrate their work in the community.”
Current sponsors for the 2025 awards ceremony include:
- Comcast
- Xfinity
- Valero
- Oteka Technologies
- The Carter Malone Group
- Gipson Mechanical Contractors
- Shelby County Government
- City of Memphis
- Vintage 901
- Humana
- HTWO Hydrogen Infused Water
- Pete Mitchell Insurance
- Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW)
- Regional One Health
- First Horizon
- Dr. Telisa Franklin
Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. To learn more about Best In Black Awards, to purchase a ticket or to become a sponsor, visit www.tri-statedefender.com/bestinblack.
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 affect 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.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Aug 1, 2025 | CMG News, News
Memphis, TN – Bank of America today announced the grand opening of a new financial center on Union Avenue in midtown Memphis. The opening of this center further expands Bank of America’s retail banking, lending and small business services in Memphis, along with investing and personalized financial guidance from Merrill. This opening is part of Bank of America’s previously announced plans to open more than 150 new financial centers across 60 markets by the end of 2027, including 40 this year and an additional 70 in 2026. Since 2016, Bank of America has invested over $5 billion in its financial center network, opening new locations and renovating existing centers, including more than $11.3 million in Memphis. The bank plans to invest more than $6 million more in the next two years.
Clients in Memphis also have access to Bank of America’s industry-leading digital capabilities, which serve the banking, lending and investing needs of 59 million verified digital clients. The new financial center showcases the latest technology, private offices to assist clients one-on-one and on-site financial specialists who work as one team to understand a client’s unique priorities and goals, and to provide personalized guidance. With more than 90% of client interactions taking place through the bank’s digital channels, the bank’s financial centers have adapted to focus on meeting spaces where clients can have in-depth conversations about their finances.
“The Union Avenue financial center demonstrates our continued commitment to helping Memphians thrive, including our clients, teammates and the community,” said Trevia Chatman, President of Bank of America Memphis. “This opening marks Bank of America’s steadfast confidence in future economic development and growth in Memphis. We are dedicated to meeting the needs of clients where they are — both geographically and at every stage of their financial journey.”
Bank of America’s commitment in the Memphis community includes:
- Providing $1.4 million in grants and sponsorships to address education, workforce development, the arts and affordable housing in 2024, including Big Brothers & Big Sisters and MIFA, both serving the residents of midtown.
- Providing a $500,000 anchor grant to the National Civil Rights Museum in 2025.
- Hiring new Consumer Banking Lead and new Community Relations Manager in 2025.
- Providing a $250,000 anchor grant to the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art in 2024.
- Providing $50,000 Neighborhood Champion grant to Collage Dance Collective in 2024.
- Offering Museums on Us – free admission to the National Civil Rights Museum on the first Sunday of the month for Bank of America cardholders.
- Introducing Golf with Us, a partnership between Bank of America and Youth on Course, with 230+ Memphians, ages 6 to 18, registered to access to five golf courses in Memphis for $5 per round.
- Having an Operation Hope counselor and a team of Better Money Habits Champions provide financial education and wellness to Memphians.
- Serving 500,000 households in Memphis.
Bank of America is the nation’s number one small business lender, including $53 million in loans to local small businesses. It has provided $445 million in loans to commercial businesses in Memphis and $20 million in home loans to families in Memphis.
Since 2020, Bank of America has invested $7.1 million in Memphis through grants to local nonprofits, and employee matching gifts. In the same time period, employees volunteered 15,000 hours and contributed $2.2 million to local nonprofits and community needs, a portion of which was matched by the Bank of America Charitable Foundation.
Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,700 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 59 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).
For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.
