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.

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

Successful Living Center Hosts 3rd Annual Caring & Sharing Workshop on Oct. 18

Successful Living Center Hosts 3rd Annual Caring & Sharing Workshop on Oct. 18

(MONTGOMERY, AL – October 3, 2024) The Successful Living Center will host their Caring & Sharing Workshop on Friday, October 18, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Beulah Baptist Church at 3703 Rosa L. Parks Ave., Montgomery, AL 36105. Registration is required and is available via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/caring-sharing-workshop-hosted-by-the-successful-living-center-tickets-1008421023427

The speakers for the workshop include:

• Probate Court Judge JC Love III will discuss conservatorship, guardianship and wills and trust
• Dr. Kwandra Andrews Brinson will discuss focusing on a healthy mind and healthy life
• Isaac Pena will discuss turning hopelessness into hope
• Corporal LyTonya Haywood will share resources and support for those in need

“This is our 3rd Caring & Sharing workshop and we are excited to hear from these great speakers during this event,” said Veronica McKenzie, executive director of the Successful Living Center. “This event is for caregivers and family members who want to learn more about resources that are available for individuals who have dementias.”

The Successful Living Center is an adult day care center that provides services to elderly adults with early to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Their goal is to provide flexible daycare and respite services that allow families to sustain employment or manage other responsibilities more freely.

The structured adult daycare provides a viable alternative to full-time assisted living or nursing home care.

For more information or if you would like to interview someone about the event, contact Deidre Malone, The Carter Malone Group, LLC, at 901.278.0881 or dmalone@cmgpr.com.

About Successful Living Center
Successful Living Center’s staff is committed to enhancing the quality of life for the families that they serve. They provide quality daycare services that include daily activities like arts and crafts, physical exercise, caregiver dementia-care resource and memory enhancement. To learn more about Successful Living Center, visit www.successfullivingcenter.org.

Polished Consulting LLC Announces Roquita Coleman-Williams as  President/Managing Partner

Polished Consulting LLC Announces Roquita Coleman-Williams as President/Managing Partner

(Memphis, Tenn. – September 3, 2024) Polished Consulting LLC is thrilled to announce the appointment of Roquita Coleman-Williams as our new President & Managing Partner. With a rich career spanning 27 years, Coleman-Williams brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of transforming challenges into strategic opportunities, fostering inclusive work environments, and spearheading innovative growth initiatives.

Coleman-Williams joins Polished Consulting LLC following her most recent role as Vice President of Sales and Operations at Coyote Logistics, a division of UPS. There, she successfully led complex operations and sales initiatives, driving significant profitability and operational efficiency. Her leadership was instrumental in navigating Coyote Logistics through periods of substantial change, ensuring sustainable growth and a strengthened market position. Before her tenure at Coyote Logistics, Coleman-Williams held multiple strategic growth roles with CN Rail and UPS Capital. At CN Rail, she was pivotal in executing growth strategies that expanded the company’s market reach and enhanced its operational capabilities. At UPS Capital, Coleman-Williams’ leadership in sales and operations contributed to a substantial increase in market penetration and customer satisfaction.

Coleman-Williams’ extensive experience as a business leader in complex operations has seen her navigate multinational organizations through periods of significant change, driving profitability and sustainable growth. Her leadership philosophy, centered on P&L management, commercial expansion, and the transformative power of inclusive leadership, aligns perfectly with Polished Consulting’s mission and values.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Roquita Coleman-Williams to the Polished Consulting team,” said Sherica Hymes CEO and Founder of Polished Consulting LLC. “Her strategic vision, coupled with her ability to inspire high-performance teams and turn underperforming operations into profitable ventures, makes her the perfect fit for our organization. Roquita’s leadership will be invaluable as we continue to scale Polished Consulting to new heights.”

Commenting on her new role, Coleman-Williams said, “I am honored to join Polished Consulting LLC and look forward to helping companies drive business growth through their most important asset—their people. I believe that by fostering inclusive leadership and creating environments where every individual can thrive, we can unlock extraordinary business potential. I am excited to bring my experience to Polished Consulting and to work with a team that shares my commitment to excellence and innovation.” Coleman-Williams excels in making critical, strategic decisions at the speed of change, leveraging advanced technology and business intelligence to drive innovation and create industry-shifting solutions. Her approach involves solving immediate challenges, anticipating future trends, and preparing the organization to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape.

Beyond her corporate achievements, Coleman-Williams is deeply invested in promoting social responsibility and economic equity. She serves on various corporate, municipal, and non-profit boards, leveraging her expertise to make meaningful contributions to the communities she serves. A highlight of her board service includes strategic planning and redevelopment initiatives with Tennessee’s largest metropolitan transit agency, where her efforts were instrumental in the historical redevelopment of Central Station.

Coleman-Williams’ appointment as President & Managing Partner marks an exciting new chapter for Polished Consulting LLC. Her strategic vision, inclusive leadership, and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly drive the firm to new levels of success.