(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/
“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.