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.
may be
without the written permission of the Publisher. (901) 523-1818 | 1509 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
■■ NEWS
A beginner’s guide to Kwanzaa
By Graham Lee Brewer Associated Press
Kwanzaa serves as a nationwide communal event reinforcing self-determination and unity in the face of oppression, spans seven days from the day after Christmas through New Year’s Day. It is observed in large, city-sponsored events as well as in smaller communities and homes na-tionwide.
Kwanzaa emerged during the Black Freedom Movement of the 1960s as a way to reconnect Black communities in the U.S. with important African cultural traditions that were severed by the transatlantic slave trade. It also promotes unity and liberation.
“It was also shaped by that defining decade of fierce strivings and struggles for freedom, jus-tice and associated goods waged by Africans and other peoples of color all over the world in the 1960s,” Maulana Karenga, the holiday’s founder, wrote in his annual Kwanzaa address in 2023. “Kwanzaa thus came into being, grounded itself and grew as an act of freedom, an in-strument of freedom, a celebration of freedom and a practice of freedom.”
Karenga, an African American author, activist and professor, founded Kwanzaa following the Watts Riots, also known as the Watts Rebellion, in Los Angeles in 1965.
The basics
Many people who observe Kwanzaa, which is a secular holiday, celebrate it alongside reli-gious festivals such as Christmas. People of any faith, race or ethnic background can partici-pate.
The holiday is governed by seven principles, known collectively as the Nguzo Saba, and a dif-ferent principle is celebrated each day: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Ku-umba (Creativity)
and Imani (Faith).
The Nguzo Saba is represented by a candleholder with seven candles called a kinara. Each night, one of those
candles is lit. The candles are the same colors as the Kwanzaa flag: Black representing the people, red their struggle and green their hope.
President Calvin Anderson
Interim Editor
Lee Eric Smith
Kwanzaa celebration participants light candles during the New Years Day event at Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church. A candleholder, called a kinara, holds seven candles one for each of Kwanzaa’s governing principles. (File photo: Gary S. Whitlow/ The Tri-State Defender)
TSD Newsroom
In Memphis, Kwanzaa is marked by community events that highlight these principles through music, dance, storytelling, and cultural exhibitions. This year, local organizations are offering a variety of ways to celebrate. Below is a schedule of activities happening this week:
Day 1: Umoja (Unity)
When: Thursday, December 26, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Bridges USA, 477 N. 5th Street, Memphis
What: Bluff City Kwanzaa celebration with kinara lighting, speakers, music, and vendors.
What: Closing celebration with reflections on faith and community unity.
Source: bluffcitykwanzaa.com
NOTE: There may be additional Kwanzaa celebrations hosted by other organizations in Memphis. Check local community calendars, contact cultural centers, or reach out to organizations directly involved in Kwanzaa celebrations in the Memphis area for more.
■■ COMMUNITY
Community members and dignitaries gather to celebrate the dedication of ‘Hazel Moore Highway,’ honoring the legacy of Hazel Moore, known as the ‘Mayor of Whitehaven.’ Attendees included Memphis City, Shelby County, and Tennessee State representatives.(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/ Tri-State Defender)
“Hazel Moore Highway” to ’Haven
Whitehaven came together to celebrate one of its most beloved figures, Hazel Moore, during a heartwarming dedication ceremony for the newly named “Hazel Moore Highway.”
Known affectionately as the “Mayor of Whitehaven,” Mrs. Moore has been a pillar of the community, devoting decades to activism, mentorship, and the fight against social issues like drug abuse, illiteracy, and teen pregnancy.
The dedication ceremony on Dec. 14, at Elvis
Presley Blvd. and Craft Rd., drew a crowd of dignitaries, friends, and admirers eager to honor her unparalleled legacy.
TSD’s Gary S. Whitlow was on hand to capture the magic of this unforgettable event. From the band’s stirring performance to the heartfelt embraces of friends and community leaders, check out his images below to relive the moments that made the Hazel Moore Highway dedication truly special!
High
a
dedication ceremony.
Hazel Moore (center), wearing a mink coat, stands with Tennessee State Rep. Karen D. Camper (left) and Tennessee State Sen. Raumesh Akbari (right) during the dedication of ‘Hazel Moore Highway.’
The Whitehaven
School Band delivers
rousing performance in tribute to Hazel Moore at the ‘Hazel Moore Highway’
Hazel Moore (center), flanked by Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris (left) and Memphis Mayor Paul Young (right), celebrates the dedication of the highway named in her honor.
Hazel Moore exchanges heartfelt moments with the Whitehaven community, who gathered to honor her lifelong contributions and celebrate the dedication of ‘Hazel Moore Highway.’
For nearly 80 years, we’ve been right here serving Tennessee. In 2023, BlueCross employees volunteered close to 12,000 hours donating blood, supporting food pantries, building beds and more.
That’s more than 1.3 years of volunteering, all in the name of improving the health and welfare of communities across Tennessee.
We’re a taxpaying not-for-profit company with deep local ties. 5,000 of us live and work in Tennessee, and our members are our friends and neighbors.
For more about how we’re supporting Tennessee, visit BCBSTnews.com.
In addition to receiving endorsements from the Memphis NAACP and Afro American Police Association, there was a strong contingent of Davis supporters present for the Jan. 23 Memphis City Council meeting (Photo: Gary S.
Memphis 901 FC had a successful season clinching a place in the playoffs. However, the season ended with a loss in the Western Conference quarterfinals. As the season came to a close, so too did an era of soccer in Memphis. The team will be moving to Santa Barbara, California in 2025. (Photo: William Weeks/Tri-State Defender)
In February, the Liberty Bowl in Memphis hosted the exhilarating Polar Bear Plunge and Chili Cookoff, a spirited event benefiting the Special Olympics. Despite the brisk 37-degree weather, over 100 enthusiastic participants, including first-timer Alex Hannah, braved the cold to take the plunge into the pool. Alex, who is special needs and a dedicated participant in the Special Olympics, joined this annual tradition alongside his father,
in the
are
Captured
photo
(from left to right) Rio Hannah, D’Vonte Jones, and Alex Hannah, embodying the spirit of courage and community. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/Tri-State Defender)
Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/ Tri-State Defender)
Waving signs demanding “Justice 4 Tyre Nichols,” Memphians demanding new leadership at the Memphis Police Department packed City Hall for the Memphis City Council meeting on Jan. 23. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
PHOTOS TELL A STORY OF 2024
While Memphis experienced more than 95 percent of the total solar
TSD Interim
Several
cowgirls competed in the barrel racing competition at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/The Tri-State Defender)
TSD Design Editor Brian Ramoly took in the eclipse while visiting relatives in Little Rock and took this stunning image of the totality.
eclipse,
Editor Lee Eric Smith took his family to nearby Jonesboro, which was, for about 3 minutes, completely blacked out. Little Lee Eric adjusts his glasses to watch the moon move across the path of the Sun. The Smiths took in the eclipse at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro.
Memphis parents stepped up to create a magical prom night for their middle schoolers a er the school unexpectedly canceled the planned events.. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
A member of Arrested Development gets down during their crowd pleasing performance of Tennessee: “DC? She went down to Holly Springs. Rasa Don and Baba? They went down to Peachtree. Headliner! I challenge you to a game of horse shoes . . . a game of HORSE
The Tennessee Delegation stands united at the Democratic National Convention, casting their votes for Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for President of the United States. (Screen capture image)
James Alexander, founding member of the Legendary Bar-Kays, shouts out the crowd after receiving the Publishers Award during the 2024 Best in Black Awards. On stage with Alexander are Tri-State Defender board members Calvin Anderson and Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq. (Photo: D’Angelo Connell/Tri-State Defender)
SHOES!” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/ The Tri-State Defender)
Terranisha Pott s, 20, was one of thousands of fi rst ti me voters in the 2024 electi on. For more on what the key issues were for her and other Memphis voters, see Page 8. (Photo: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
In September, the Southern Heritage Classic held its 35th anniversary game. The SHC was featured in an exhibition at the National Civil Rights Museum. Photo: Lee Eric Smith/The Tri-State Defender)
Memphis WR Roc Taylor (#3) sprints down the sideline against a Middle Tennessee defender. Taylor had six receptions for 69 yards in the Tigers’ 24-7 victory. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The Tri-State Defender)
Baraka Okojie (#6) drives into the paint, facing double coverage from Missouri defenders, as Memphis surges in the second half. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/TriState Defender)
Jaren Jackson Jr. and Orlando Magic F Paulo Banchero battle for possession during a Jan. 26, 2024 game at FedExForum. Memphis won 107-106. (Photo: William Weeks/ Tri-State Defender)
For the first time, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant hosted a Basketball Camp for kids. Kaari looks for a driving lane against her dad. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The Tri-State Defender)
■■ COMMUNITY Courage in Crisis:
First responders reflect Memphis’ strengths and struggles
By Lee Eric Smith Interim Editor
BeforeDec. 4, I knew nothing about the Bruce Haugsdahl Awards Luncheon, an annual celebration that Kiwanis Club of Memphis hosts to honor local first responders, especially those who have been injured or killed in the line of duty.
The event flies under the radar — when I introduced myself as covering it for The Tri-State Defender, multiple Kiwanis members were thrilled. “This doesn’t usually get a lot of press,” one member said. “It’s nice to see these first responders get some attention.”
The Bruce Haugsdahl Awards Luncheon may fly under the radar, but its significance looms large. It’s a moment to pause and honor the first responders who willingly run toward danger, risking their lives for the sake of others. It’s also a reminder of the weight they carry daily — and of the challenges that our community must address to lighten their burden.
Awards went to one first responder each from the Memphis Fire Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and Memphis Police Department — heroes who literally risked life and limb in the line of duty. Before each presentation, we heard the stories of the events that led to this honor, and no surprise, it was moving; sober, but not somber.
But as I listened to each story, I couldn’t help but think about how each story had something to say about the social ills Memphis is facing — and those who are the first to respond when the inevitable call for help comes.
Bravery under (ACTUAL) fire
The first story was that of Firefighter Brian De Los Santos, who, on Septem-
inherently dangerous, and they face life-threatening situations every day.
Stories like De Los Santos’ are emblematic of the selflessness that defines first responders.
ber 23, 2023, risked his life to rescue a seven-year-old girl trapped inside a burning house.
“Visibility was extremely low,” Fire Chief Gina Sweat recounted, describing the scene. “He felt his way around the mattress on the floor and then he found the couch, and under which he discovered a small person that was half under the couch.”
Without hesitation, pulled the child to safety, demonstrating the courage and selflessness that define the very best of first responders. Their job is
While their heroics often go unnoticed, the reality is that these men and women stand as the last line of defense when tragedy strikes. Yet, their bravery also raises questions: are we, as a city, doing enough to support these heroes?
From adequate funding and equipment to mental health resources for the toll such work takes, their sacrifices compel us to reflect on how we can better stand behind those who stand for us — as the next story showed.
“ A routine traffic stop”
The next story, honoring Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael
Connors, is a sobering reminder of how quickly a routine situation can spiral into chaos. On June 24, 2023, Connors was severely injured during what began as a routine traffic stop for speeding.
The driver, carrying narcotics, became agitated and attempted to flee. Connors acted swiftly, trying to prevent the escape by reaching into the vehicle to pull the driver out. In a matter of seconds, the situation turned violent as the driver accelerated, dragging Connors and leaving him with severe injuries to both legs.
Connors’ recovery has been long and grueling, but his resilience has brought him back to work, now serving as a detective. His story is a testament to the dangers first responders face daily, even in seemingly routine
Tina McKinney is consoled by Memphis Police brass as she accepts the Kiwanis Club of Memphis’ Bruce Haugsdahl Award on behalf of her son, Officer Joseph McKinney. Officer McKinney was killed in the line of duty on April 12, 2024, when a routine call turned into a rapid fire gunfight. (Photos: Lee Eric Smith/Tri-State Defender)
Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Connors (left) was injured in the line of duty in June 2023, when what started as a routine speeding stop resulted in him being dragged alongside a speeding car dangling from the window. His recovery is ongoing, and he’s back to work — as Detective Connors.
PUBLIC NOTICES / CLASSIFIEDS COMMUNITY
LEGAL NOTICE
Request for Proposals
RFP Number 25-0008
UNIFORM RENTAL SERVICES
Memphis Fire Chief Gina Sweatt shared the story of Firefighter Brian De Los Santos before presenting him with the Haugsdahl Award for his bravery. In September 2023, De Los Santos went into a burning building twice looking for people to rescue — risking his own life in the process.
moments — and how swiftly circumstances change.
When seconds become life or death
Deputy Connors’ story is harrowing enough, but the final honoree of the day, Officer Joseph McKinney, reminds us how these officers MUST be on edge as they approach a vehicle.
On April 12, 2024, Officer McKinney and his fellow officers responded to a call about an abandoned, stolen car. It seemed straightforward, the kind of incident officers deal with every day.
But as they approached, they discovered two people inside. Moments later, bullets are flying — one suspect was holding a Glock modified to fire automatically. McKinney, along with two other officers, was struck in the gunfire. While his colleagues survived, McKinney tragically succumbed to his injuries.
During the ceremony, McKinney’s mother, Tina McKinney, accepted the posthumous award on her son’s behalf, a moment that underscored the personal and collective grief that accompanies such sacrifices. She didn’t speak, but she didn’t need to — her
silent grief filled the room — especially in a holiday season.
A thin line between routine and crisis
These awards celebrate the courage of first responders, but they also remind us of the immense risks they face every day.
Firefighter De Los Santos went BACK IN to save lives. And both Connors and McKinney’s stories highlight the razor-thin line between routine and crisis in the lives of first responders. Whether it’s a reckless driver or a dangerous weapon, these situations can escalate in seconds, leaving little time to react. For the men and women on the front lines, this is the reality they face every day. These stories compel us to consider how we, as a city, can better support our first responders. From addressing reckless driving to cracking down on illegal gun modifications, Memphis must act to reduce the dangers these heroes face daily.
And when one of them is hurt or even killed in the line of duty, we owe it to them and those they love to come running.
Sealed proposals for UNIFORM RENTAL SERCVICES will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, Memphis International Airport – Receiving Dock, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM local time, on FEBRUARY 06, 2025. A listing of all proposers responding will be posted to the Authority’s website one (1) hour after the response deadline. Responses to the Request for [Qualifications or Proposals] will not be publicly opened and read. Packet with submittal instructions, additional data, and response format may be found on the Authority’s website on or after December 20, 2024.
A mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held on January 8th, 2025 at 10:00 AM at the Authority’s Board Room on the Mezzanine Level, Terminal B of the Memphis International Airport, 2491 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38116. All attendees must register at www.eventbrite.com
All Respondents are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda, or additional information. In accordance with the Authority’s purchasing policies, the Authority will give preference to businesses located in Shelby County, Tennessee when awarding contracts and making purchases, unless prohibited by law. The successful Respondent must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation
Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment, Domestic Preferences for Procurements, and Drug-Free Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Proposals] in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Proposals]; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.
The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.
