![](https://assets.isu.pub/document-structure/241121215808-bb840e9c7400b9058fc1f25fe217c826/v1/90c539aa92cb2de4bd03bfa49f27791e.jpeg)
![](https://assets.isu.pub/document-structure/241121215808-bb840e9c7400b9058fc1f25fe217c826/v1/f241a46ee0873050e995dae204e89f07.jpeg)
![](https://assets.isu.pub/document-structure/241121215808-bb840e9c7400b9058fc1f25fe217c826/v1/d1d8448f4409d4baafe7360d75152e70.jpeg)
TRI-STATE DEFENDER
![](https://assets.isu.pub/document-structure/241121215808-bb840e9c7400b9058fc1f25fe217c826/v1/5b67e69502610b882805aacb40f603c8.jpeg)
Published by
![](https://assets.isu.pub/document-structure/241121215808-bb840e9c7400b9058fc1f25fe217c826/v1/afec095b5eedb94e3b33dd9b84c1fb5e.jpeg)
Published by
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
Underpaid Shelby County Circuit Court employees – half of the county’s payroll – will have to settle for the already budgeted 6% pay increases for all employees after county commissioners shot down a supplement during the Monday, Nov. 18 meeting.
“It is our intention to raise all of the boats inside Shelby County government and not just any particular group of individuals, or department.”
accounting error that was corrected.
After the executive action, Sugarmon reopened discussions with the administration, but “did not sign onto” the eventual proposal.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tri-State Defender, 1509 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104.
GENERAL INFORMATION: Inquiries may be submitted in writing or by calling (901) 5231818 or by email.
TELEPHONE: (901) 523-1818.
The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly. The Tri-State Defender 1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN, 38104. Second-class postage paid in Memphis, TN.
The Tri-State Defender is a member of The National Newspaper Publishers Association and the Tennessee Press Association.
All materials covered by copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. (901) 523-1818 | 1509 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
$60 Annually/$5 Monthly
Digital subscriptions are available online at tsdmemphis.com
The amended resolution sought to provide “pay parity” to all qualifying employees above the upcoming Jan. 1 wage hike. However, a debate over parity versus equity created both a rock and hard place for the resolution.
“We tried as best we could to respond to the commission’s request that the lower earners have a higher-paid increase than all other employees, at the same time trying to preserve a 6% increase for all employees,” said Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris.
It flatlined after commissioners split 6-6 on the third and final vote.
In favor were commissioners Miska Clay-Bibbs, Charlie Caswell, Mickell Lowery, Shante Avant, Henri Brooks and Erika Sugarmon. Members Amber Mills, Mick Wright, David Bradford, Edmund Ford, Jr., Brandon Morrison and Britney Thornton voted against the resolution.
The resolution would have given the “lowest band” an 8% increase, which would amount to 2% above the average county employee’s scheduled raise. Boosts would have diminished as salaries increased. For example, the next group would have received a 7.6% raise, followed 7.1%. The highest compensated eligible workers would have netted a 6.4% increase.
Harris presented the final pitch in a often amended proposal. The original intent was to provide raises to the lowest-paid circuit court employees. Eventually, all underpaid county employees were thrown into a sidecar at the request of commission chairman Mark Whaley.
— Harold Collins.
This was to prevent employees from other agencies from jumping ship to another for raises. In that game, revenue generating offices – like the circuit court – would typically have an upper hand.
“It is our intention to raise all of the boats inside Shelby County government and not just any particular group of individuals, or department,” explained Shelby County CAO Harold Collins.
Intentions aside, Harris’ representation of the percentage point-based increases as “equitable” received immediate pushback.
“Seven percent…what does that look like, $2,500 for the working poor, whereas someone earning $100,000, a 6% increase. You’re talking about $6,000. If you’re making $200,000 a year, you’re talking about $12,000,” disagreed Sugarmon.
The commissioner previously sponsored an “equitable salary schedule” that passed with eight votes. The goal was to raise the floor on county salaries to $40,000. It was vetoed by Harris in September. The omission of “hundreds and hundreds and hundreds” of pay schedule employees was cited as a the “main reason.”
Harris also said the vetoed item created “compression issues,” where new employees could “leapfrog” more experienced workers on the pay scale.
It takes nine votes to override a veto.
Sugarmon dismissed the Harris’ defense of the amendment by pointing out that the concerns came from an
In some respects, the two weren’t working on the same page. The administration used the federal minimum wage of $15 as a marker while crafting the proposal. Sugarmon cited a more up-to-date source.
“According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s living wage calculate, as of February 2024, the living wage for Memphis is for a single adult with no children, $20.60 per hour…” said Sugarmon.
The figure begins an exponential climb when children are factored into the calculation.
“When you have a dollar amount, it is more equitable,” said Sugarmon. “What we’re trying to do is bring the people at the bottom – the working poor – a living wage. That was the whole idea,” said Sugarmon
Other commissioners concurred with the assessment.
“For the record, this is parity, not equity. Let’s not intentionally, or unintentionally change the words for a narrative,” said Ford.
When asked, several interested IBEW employees in attendance gave a thumbs up in support of the resolution. Their approval was enough to sway Sugarmon.
“I still don’t think it’s right.”
After the thumbs up, Ford requested a motion to bifurcate the incremental raises into four separate items to be voted on individually. Wright objected.
The motion failed 7-4.
In addition to equity issues, the use of the county’s fund balance for a recurring costs also doomed the proposal.
Commissioners will likely revisit the issue in April, when a compensation study is expected.
After a competitive game, everyone was all smiles at the Heal The Hood Foundation’s “Hoops For The Holidays.. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The Tri-State Defender)
Earlier this month, the Heal the Hood Foundation (HTH) brought the community together for an electrifying day of sports, entertainment, and philanthropy with its Hoops For The Holidays charity basketball game.
Held at Hickory Ridge Middle School, the event raised critical funds for HTH’s Adopt-A-Family (12 Days of Christmas) initiative and the Hero Empowerment Center, which provide much-needed resources to families across Memphis.
The star-studded event featured appearances by American Idol contestant Lil Rounds, R&B recording artist and autism activist Kia Shine, and semi-pro and international basketball players. During halftime, the crowd was treated to a Middle School Sharpshooter 3-Point Contest and a spirited performance by hip-hop gospel recording artist Preacherman.
American Idol Native Memphian Lil Rounds, who broke out in Season 8 of “American Idol,” blesses the crowd with a moving performance of the National Anthem for the 14th Annual “Hoops For The Holidays.”
Heal The Hood was also recently named a recipient of the Safer Communities Grant by the City of Memphis. With its combination of sports and music, the event not only entertained but also inspired attendees to give back to their community.
TSD photojournalist Gary S. Whitlow was on hand to capture the action. . . check out his images!
SUPPORTING FOOD, HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
Under the Black Chamber of Memphis Business Booster, food service, hospitality and tourism businesses adversely impacted by the pandemic receive FREE business acumen training and support. The program includes peer group sessions, one-on-one coaching PLUS direct access to services like business plan development, operational efficiency, and financial aid. Upon completing the program, a $5,000 investment will be made to your business.
1. Must be a food service/hospitality/tourism business located within Memphis city limits;
2. Must be in operation on or before March 3, 2020 and still be in operation at the time of application;
3. Must provide business license, IRS EIN Letter or Schedule C, State Papers of Incorporation;
4. Cannot have more than 500 employees.
The 2024 Best in Black Awards was a night to remember, celebrating the achievements of Memphis’s most outstanding Black-owned businesses, community leaders, and creatives.
Held at the Central Station Hotel, the event brought together a vibrant crowd to honor the excellence and resilience of the Mid-South’s Black community. Hosted by ABC24 anchor Pepper Baker, the evening featured heartfelt speeches, live entertainment, and well-deserved recognition across more than 40 categories.
From the powerful acceptance of Mayor Paul Young as this year’s Hometown Hero to the dynamic performances and special honors like the Publisher’s Awards, the ceremony showcased the depth of talent and influence in Memphis.
ON THE COVER:
• Best BBQ: A&R Barbecue –Elvis Presley Blvd
• Best Soul Food: Four Way Grill
• Best Wings: Ching’s Hotwings
• Best Restaurant: Mahogany Memphis
• Best Culinary Experience: Mahogany Memphis
• Best Female Solo Artist: Carla Tolbert Taylor
• Best Male Solo Artist: Courtney Little
• Best Band: Michael Townsend
• Best Spoken Word: Yolanda “Quiet Storm” Gates
• Best Attorney: Attorney Janika White
• Best Dentist: Dr. Joseph Dove
– Dove Dentistry
• Best Doctor: Dr. Lanetta Anderson
• Best in Real Estate: BJ Worthy
– RE/MAX
• Best Financial Institution: Trustmark
• Best Beauty Salon: A Natural Affair – Takeshia Berry Brooks
• Best Barbershop: Xclusive House of Kutz
• Best Make-up Artist: Jasmine Holmes – Jazzy B Artistry
• Best Nail Technician: Nail Kandee by Ashley
• Best Fitness Trainer: Sherika Holmes – Sherika Fitness
• Best Health and Wellness Service: Refreshed Skin Studio
• Best Clothing Boutique: Dean of Fashion Boutique – Ashley Dean
• Best Local TV Personality: Jeremy Pierre – Fox Memphis Channel 13
• Best Local Radio Personality: Stan Bell
• Best Event or Radio DJ: DJ
Babo
• Best Podcast: The Smoke Podcast
• Best Social Media Influencer: Ladia Yates
• Best Lounge/Club: ESCO Memphis
• Best Event Planning Service: Just Right Events
• Best Church Choir: Bethlehem
M.B. Church Male Choir
• Best Art & Culture Initiative: Tom Lee Park – Sunset Skate
• Best Bookstore: DeMoir Books & Things
• Best Diversity and Inclusion Initiative: Memphis Heritage Trail
• Best Educational Initiative: Porter Leath
• Best Youth and Mentorship Program: L.Y.E. Academy
• Best Food Event: Vintage901 Wine, Food and Music Festival –Stephanie Ferreira
• Best Food Truck: Taco N Ganas
• Best in Hospitality and Tourism: Kermit Madison
• Best Start-Up Business: SNKRR Bar
• Best Entrepreneur: Alandas Dobbins
• Hometown Hero: Memphis Mayor Paul Young
• The Corporate Executive Award: David McKinney, Vice President Human Resources, AutoZone
• The Legacy Award: Ruby Bright, Past President, Women’s Foundation for A Greater Memphis
• The Publisher’s Award 2024: James Alexander, Original Member of The World-Famous BarKays
EDGE serves as the economic development agency for the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government. Committed to celebrating and elevating Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in the Mid-South, our goal is to strengthen connections with community leaders and highlight businesses that drive growth and innovation. Through these efforts, we aim to uplift our community and promote economic equity and inclusion.
Serves as the thought leader of
Economic Development Strategies
Provide tax incentives
Coordinate Technical Assistance
Administer Grants
Manages the International Port of Memphis
Represent mayors and elected officials in all economic development activities
Family sustainable job creation
Neighborhood Revitalization
Regional Collaboration
Industrial Development
Small Business Growth
Revenue Generating Strategies
Quality health care gives you the foundation to pursue your dreams. At Regional One Health, we offer comprehensive services in a supportive environment to make it easy for you to access care that evolves with your changing needs.
Vice Chairwoman Shante K. Avant, District 5
Congratulations to the Tri-State Defender on the Best In Black Awards finalist and winners including Ruby Bright.
By Lee Eric Smith Interim Editor
In a torrent of violent crime that makes it difficult to keep count, one of the latest incidents involved a shooting at Central High School on Monday afternoon. A teenage suspect now faces attempted murder charges in the incident.
And as always, the question must be asked: How can we reach wayward youth before they make life-altering choices—or life-ending ones? How do you prevent the youth from picking up the gun in the first place?
That’s the challenge that the new Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement is tasked with tackling. Through the Safer Communities Grant program, city and county officials have awarded 39 area nonprofits more than $1 million to help steer youth away from those tragic choices.
Speaking at the grant ceremony Tuesday morning, Memphis Mayor Paul A. Young addressed the need for prevention.
“We want to make sure that we hold people accountable who commit crimes in our community,” he said. “But we also want to prevent crime. The earlier we can reach young people and show them different opportunities for success, the better.”
The nonprofits cover a broad swath of interests and goals — from urban farming to creating comics to teaching men how to be better fathers.
“What struck me was how diverse this room is, with different kinds of groups represented,” Young said. “These organizations each bring their unique strengths and perspectives to the table, and that’s what makes this effort so powerful.”
Mayor Young elaborated on how this diversity creates a holistic approach to violence prevention.
“We’re talking about organizations
• Abundant Earth Global CDC
• Black Pearl Nail Academy
• BlocSquad Memphis
• Breakthrough Leadership Foundation
• Bridging the Gap Enterprises
• BSOY Foundation
• Carpenter Art Garden
• Christopher Pugh Center
• Elite Performance Foundation
• Foster Village Memphis
• Heal 901
• Heal the Hood
• Hope, Love & Grace
• I Am She
• JIFF
• Junior League of Memphis
• Just City
• Legacy of Legends
• Lite at Nite
• Memphis Athletic Ministries
• Memphis Crime Beat
that have been embedded in these communities for years, addressing everything from education and mentorship to conflict resolution and trauma support,” he said. “By supporting such a wide range of strategies, we increase our chances of connecting with young people in meaningful ways and creating lasting change.”
One recipient, Abundant Earth Global CDC, aims to plant “food forests” in its Frayser service area, aiming to teach life principles through agriculture and to provide food to an area that the USDA has designated a food desert.
“Everybody’s gotta eat,” said Ester Moore, Abundant Earth executive director. “I’ve heard it said that the fed man has many problems, but the hungry man has only one. You can’t teach anybody if they can’t hear over their growling stomachs. And the healthier the food, the better.
“But it’s deeper than that, too,” she said. “There’s a sense of pride that comes with growing something from seed, nurturing it and then feeding yourself and your people off of it. There’s a lot of power in that.”
The mayor reflected on the organi-
zations receiving the grants, many of which have long histories of serving Memphis neighborhoods.
“These organizations are out there doing the work and have been for many, many years,” he said. “Ideally, their success prevents the next negative thing from happening.”
The grants come as the city launches a broader initiative to coordinate community efforts through the Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement. The office will work with the Memphis Police Department to identify areas most affected by crime and strategically activate grant-funded organizations in those neighborhoods.
“This is about building relationships and collaboration,” Mayor Young added. “The Joint Office will provide structure and support so these organizations can align their efforts and make a bigger impact.”
As the city grapples with the devastating consequences of youth violence, the Safer Communities Grant program offers a glimmer of hope—a partnership between city leaders and grassroots organizations to reach young people before it’s too late.
• Memphis Shelby PAL
• Merge Memphis
• Methodist LeBonheur Community Outreach
• Operation Taking Back 901
• Panache Cares
• Peer Power
• Playback Memphis
• Regional One Health Foundation
• Respect the Haven
• Samaritan Counseling Centers of the Mid-South
• Schoolseed
• Sowing Justice
• Stop the Killing Cut the Beef
• Streets Ministries
• The Gentleman’s League
• The Husband Institute
• The Memphis Urban League
• The Women’s Advocacy Center
• Tony Harris Basketball Institute
• Transitional Reentry Adult Program
• We Stand on Business
• Young Actors Guild
Memphis-area football fans, get ready for an exciting Friday night as the TSSAA high school playoffs heat up with quarterfinal action. Several local teams are vying for spots in the state semifinals, offering thrilling matchups across multiple classifications.
• In Class 1A, Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering (MASE), boasting a 10-1 record, will host Union City (10-2).
The winner will advance to play the victor of McKenzie/Richland next weekend.
• Over in Class 2A, undefeated Fairley High
School (10-0) faces Memphis Business Academy (8-2) in what promises to be a fierce intra-city showdown.
The winner will take on the winner of Milan/ Huntingdon in the semifinals.
• In Class 4A, Melrose High School (8-3) hosts Dyer County (11-1).
The winner will face the winner of Haywood/ Lexington in the next round.
• The Class 6A quarterfinals feature a highly anticipated matchup between Houston High (10-2) and Collierville (11-1).
The winner will advance to meet the winner of Oakland/Riverdale.
Games kick off at 7 p.m., with tickets available online at the TSSAA website or at the gates. General admission prices typically range from $8 to $12, and parking fees may vary by venue, so if you’re going, plan accordingly. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating and enjoy the electric atmosphere.
Bring your school spirit and get ready for some unforgettable high school football action. With state championship dreams on the line, these games promise to deliver drama, excitement, and community pride! Visit TSSAAsports.com for more details.
In compliance with federal regulations 23 CFR 450, the Memphis Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) has made available the draft Memphis Regional Pedestrian and Bicycle Greenprint Plan for a public review and comment period, from December 5, 2024-January 17, 2025. These documents will be made available for review from 8:00 AM until 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, in the offices of the Memphis MPO located at 125 N. Main Street, Room 450, Memphis, TN 38103, or for download from the Internet at: memphismpo. org. Comments may be submitted to Pragati Srivastava, Memphis MPO, 125 N. Main Street, Room 450, Memphis, TN 38103 or via email at Pragati.Srivastava@memphistn.gov
It is the policy of the Memphis Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) not to exclude, deny, or discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, immigration status, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran status, familial or marital status, disability, medical or genetic condition, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law in its hiring or employment practices, or in its admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. For any and all inquiries regarding the application of this accessibility statement and related policies, or for persons that require aids or services to participate In the review of these documents please contact Nick Warren, at (901) 636-7146 or Nick.Warren@memphistn.gov
This notice is funded (in part) under an agreement with the State of TN and MS, Departments of Transportation.
I’m looking for the title for a 2005 Gray Buick LeSabre VIN: 1G4HR54KX5U254246
Anthony Harris
Shelby County Government’s Division of Planning and Development will hold two public hearings to share information and receive public comments about the Shelby County National Disaster Resilience Action Plan Amendment #10 which will be submitted by Shelby County Government to the U.S. Department of HUD on or around December 30, 2024. The NDR grant was awarded to Shelby County in 2016 and provides funding to implement long-term resilience strategies that fortify the county against future floods. The NDR activities focus on improvement to three geographical areas, one in each local watershed, and development of the Regional Resilience Plan. All four activities are outlined and described in greater detail in the NDR Action Plan, as amended. All Action Plan materials are available for review at https:// www.shelbycountyosr.com/resilientshelby.
The purpose of this public hearing is to solicit input from all stakeholders of the Shelby County Community concerning a proposed substantial amendment to the 10th Action Plan Amendment (APA #10). Once approved, the APA #10 will allow for the following changes to the grant:
Redistribute funding across activities in the Wolf River Greenway project in the amount
of $557,559.29. Funding will be moved from activities 3 NDR 01 (Orchi Road) and 3 NDR 07 (Wolf River Greenway) to activities 3-NDR-02 (Rodney Baber), 3- NDR -02 (Kennedy Park) and 3-NDR-05 (Engineering). Cancel the activity 3-NDR-01 (Orchi Road). Update direct leverage and supporting leverage commitments by increasing the value from various sources in both types of leverage.
Materials that detail the changes can be viewed, and public comment submitted prior to the APA being submitted to HUD on-line at https://www.shelbycountyosr.com/resilientshelby or at any of the following locations during regular operating hours:
Office of Sustainability and Resilience, City of Memphis
City Hall, 125 N. Main Street 4th Floor, Suite 477
Public libraries, including: The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Barlett Library Arlington Library, Collierville Library, Germantown Library and, Millington Library
The public hearings will serve as another method for the public to obtain information, and provide public comment, about the pending changes to the Action Plan. Each public hearing will begin with a presentation of the changes followed by time for questions.
Meetings will be held at the following locations, dates and times:
December 12, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m at 6465 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, 38134
December 12, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m at 6465 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, 38134
If you have questions or plan to attend the public hearing and have special needs, please contact either of the following individuals or TTY at 901-222-2300 by 4:30 p.m. Monday, December 9, 2024.
Leigh Huffman, Manager Office of Sustainability and Resilience Division of Planning and Development City of Memphis and Shelby County (901) 636-6699 leigh.huffman@memphistn.gov
Scott Walkup, Administrator Shelby County Department of Housing (901) 222-7610 scott.walkup@shelbycountytn.gov
Citizen input and public participation is strongly encouraged from all sectors of the Shelby County community. Shelby County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services. Equal opportunity/equal access provider. To ensure a meaningful and timely response, all public comments about the APA #10 must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on December 30, 2024.
Para mas información en Español, por favor llame al 901-222-2088.
Lee Harris Mayor
Leigh Huffman, Manager Office of Sustainability and Resilience Division of Planning and Development
Being responsible stewards of our members’ premiums and helping control the cost of health care are two of the most important things we do for everyone who trusts us with their family’s health coverage. But our commitment to our communities goes much deeper than that.
In 2023, we:
• Volunteered 11,800 hours at nonprofit organizations that share our vision for positive change.
• Gave charitable donations to 354 organizations.
• Reduced our energy needs by 20% with our on-site solar systems. And our remote employees saved over a million gallons of gas.
• Awarded Power of We Health Equity Scholarships to six deserving students studying medicine, nursing, pharmacy and more.
• Generated $500 million in local, state and federal taxes.
See other ways we give back to Chattanooga and other Tennessee communities at BCBSTnews.com/impact
Medicare plans change every year, so can your health. Visit Medicare.gov to see all your options side by side and compare coverage, costs, and quality ratings.
New in 2025, all Medicare plans will include a $2,000 cap on what you pay out of pocket for covered prescription drugs.
The cap only applies to drugs that are covered by your plan, so it’s more important than ever to review your plan options to make sure your drugs are covered.
If you are struggling with your prescription drug costs, Extra Help is a Medicare program that can help pay for your drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. If you make less than $23,000 a year, it’s worth it to apply. Visit ssa.gov/extrahelp to complete an application.