The Tri-State Defender - March 7, 2024

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Week of: March 7, 2024 The latest from tsdmemphis.com Volume 73, Issue 10 tsdmemphis.com facebook.com/TSDMemphis instagram.com/thenewtristatedefender twitter.com/TSDMemphis NEWS COMMENTARY: Biden-Harris Administration hosts listening session with Tennessee Leaders at White House. — Page 3 COMMUNITY EVENT CELEBRATES AND COMMEMORATES MEMPHIS 13 Dozens screen “The Memphis 13” documentary at Crosstown Concourse. — Page 9 A HOPEFUL PATH Mayor Young talks strategy on curbing youth violence — Page 6

COMMUNITY

BLP Studio pitching a ‘multi-agency police substation’ on proposed film lot in Whitehaven

With a lm production set to begin this month, BLP Film Studio requested a permanent law enforcement presence be considered at the site of its planned 100-acre South Memphis lm lot during an update to Memphis City Council Parks and Tourism Committee members on Tuesday, March 5.

“Speci cally, the request we are asking is for a multi-agency police substation to be located on the property,” said BLP founder and CEO Jason Farmer.

While Memphis’ centralized location on the map is a plus for out-of-town lmmakers, the high crime rate of the studio’s surrounding community could potentially hinder future productionsand frighten o potential investors.

“We get a phone call probably once a week about the crime. ere are concerns about crime in the city, speci cally the location of the lm studio,” said Farmer.

Others have expressed concern. Founded in 2012, the studio is currently working with state o cials and politicians to clear remaining regulatory hurdles and secure government funding.

“We’re continuing to navigate through the state system. We’ve asked for some funding from the state as an aspect of tourism. We’ll be appearing before the Black Caucus tomorrow. We’re expecting a meeting with Governor Lee in the next couple of weeks.”

Located on Elvis Presley Blvd., the property abuts a Wal-Mart Supercenter in Whitehaven. e land was purchased from the Memphis Shelby County Schools system in 2022.

BLP Studio’s proposal would place a substation in the studio’s commons area. e forward-facing section along Elvis Presley Blvd. would also contain BLP support services, retail and recreational spaces, along with a minor medical clinic.

Preliminary discussions on the topic have been held with several city o cials, including City of Memphis Mayor Paul Young, interim MPD Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis and City of Memphis COO Antonio Adams. A discussion is in the works with Shelby County Sheri Floyd Bonner too. Other civic leaders are also in the loop. Ultimately, the decision lies with Young, who would make the request to the council.

Council members, however, seem receptive. If a new substation was approved, it would take several years before it would be open. Beginning with an out tting request from the MPD, a design contract is submitted. If the money is allocated the next budget season, construction can begin.

“Construction is anywhere from 18-24 months. If you add it all together, maybe 40-something odd months to

really build a precinct,” said Adams. One member pointed out a quick x solution could already be in place. When the nearby retailer built its anchor store in the community, a space was built on the property to house a police precinct. It has never been used. “ at particular Wal-Mart was built as a model, because Wal-Mart wanted to put Wal-Marts into the city. WalMarts were usually on the outskirts. ey were going to put precincts for police free of charge…” said Edmund Ford Sr.

A joint e ort with his son, Jason Jr., BLP Film Studio ambitions include establishing Memphis as a premier Tier 2 lm production city. Other Tier 2 cities include New Orleans and Shreveport. Tier 1 cities include notable lm production towns like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Atlanta.

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 2 TRI-STATE DEFENDER tsdmemphis.com Published by The Tri-State Defender
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Editor’s Note: In addition to serving as Vice President of the Tri-State Defender’s parent company, Deidre Malone is the President of the National Women’s Political Caucus. In that role, she recently traveled to Washington DC for meetings at the White House and shares this rst-person account.

On ursday, February 29, 2024, elected o cials, non-pro t leaders and community leaders were invited to Washington DC to participate in a White House event called “Communities In Action, Building a Better America.”

e meeting was a brie ng on current Biden-Harris Administration programs and a listening session to hear how these programs have impacted their local communities – directly from those who live in them. Representatives from Tennessee, West Virginia and Kentucky were invited to participate.

I was invited as the President of the National Women’s Political Caucus. Members from the Biden-Harris Administration shared updates on programs around infrastructure, clean-energy, the economy, lowering costs for Tennessee Families.

One of the speakers was U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

“We are proud of the investments we’ve made in awarding $54 million to Memphis Area Transit Authority for a new operations and maintenance facility to accommodate more vehicles,” Buttigieg said. “I’ve been down to Memphis attending an event at the Memphis International Airport and we’ve awarded them a grant for terminal modernization.”

In Tennessee, residents are saving money on their health care premiums and prescription drugs, high speed

Memphis area leaders meet with BidenHarris Administration at White House

internet and home energy costs. Nearly 1.3 million Tennesseans with Medicare will bene t from the $2,000 yearly cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs, a $35 monthly cap per insulin prescription and free vaccines.

According to the Biden-Harris Administration, more than 338,000 Tennesseans signed-up for health

insurance through the A ordable Care Act during the 2023 enrollment period and will bene t from savings of lower health care premiums.

I thanked the Administration for providing the A ordable Connectivity Program investment bringing free internet services to underserved communities. More than 340,000 people in our state took advantage of the ACP program. Program funding is about to end, but the administration is looking at the possibility of extending this program according to sta .

Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Miska Clay Bibbs, thanked the Biden-Harris Team for their investments in Tennessee.

“I’m thankful for all the investments made in Tennessee by the Biden-Harris Administration, including the nancial assistance provided for BlueOval City, MATA and the Memphis International Airport,” said Clay Bibbs. “I also want President Biden to know that we need

more investment in Memphis and Shelby County. Anything you can do to assist us would be appreciated.”

Others representing Tennessee included:

• Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly

• State Senator Charlane Oliver (Nashville)

• State Senator Je Yarbro (Nashville)

• State Representative Harold Love (Nashville)

• State Representative Gloria Johnson (Knoxville)

• State Representative Sam McKenzie (Knoxville)

(*McKenzie also chairs the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators)

• Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Hendrell Remus

• Out Memphis Executive Director Molly Quinn

• A representative from the Ironworkers Union.

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 3 ■■ NEWS
Elected officials and community leaders from Tennessee attended a listening session at the White House. (Courtesy Photo) Deidre Malone and Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Miska Clay Bibbs represented Memphis and Shelby County at the White House on Feb. 29.

Weathers: Keeping an eye on AI in K-12 Education

When you think about arti cial intelligence, many futuristic images ood your mind. However, AI is quickly becoming a normal part of our everyday lives in education, business, the arts, politics, public service, etc.

e pace of change is staggering!

AI is rapidly transforming multiple aspects of our society, o en in ways we don’t even realize. AI’s in uence is expanding across various sectors, fundamentally altering how we live, work, and interact with the world around us.

We are now in the age of smart technology where we only need our voice to complete a task. Everything can be done with the utterance of a voice command or the click of a button.

AI’s rise across nearly every domain creates incredible opportunities but also risks around the displacement of human roles and ethical questions surrounding algorithmic bias. Understanding and managing AI’s growth remains an urgent priority if society is to maximize its bene ts while minimizing harm.

Its in uence and the pace of innovation are already impossible to put back in the bottle.

One of the great features of AI is its ability to have human-like conversations with, well, “humans.”

is was an exchange I had with Claude, one of the AI bots I’ve been test-driving for the last several months. I made the following request:

“What is the latest on the AI revolution sweeping the nation; well, actually, the entire world, in the eld of public education.”

Claude’s response:

“ e use of AI in education is certainly growing rapidly, but I wouldn’t quite characterize it yet as a revolution “sweeping the nation” or “entire world.”

It then proceeded to give me a rundown of the advancements in AI that were related to my prompt.

It closed the conversation with this response:

“My aim was not to diminish the incredible innovations occurring with arti cial intelligence, but we have to walk before we run when claiming any technology has wrought sudden sweeping transformation of a massive sector like K-12 education. Progress takes time and careful implementation. I’m condent the long-term impacts over the coming decades have the potential to be positively “revolutionary.” We just can’t let the hype exceed present-day realities.

e future for AI in learning looks very bright. But while promising, AI has yet to demonstrate the capabilities required for anything resembling an established “REVOLUTION” in teaching and learning.”

Well, there you have it. And I vehemently disagree! I thought it was interesting that of the four bots I’ve been test-driving (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and my newest friend, Copilot), only one (Claude) seems to be unimpressed with all the fuss over the so-called AI “Revolution.” e other three bots acknowledged the revolutionary potential of AI technology in its current form and are excited about its future.

Anyway, AI has the potential to transform education in revolutionary ways over time. We’re still just scratching the surface of what will eventually be possible.

However, we do have to be realistic about where the practical applications currently stand. I’m in schools every week, and I can assure you that very few of my colleagues and the students I work with know very much about AI technology.

Most schools globally are still in the very early pilot stages of using AI. Implementation is gradual and uneven. And there are challenges of access, transparency, and responsible development that the industry grapples with daily.

Nevertheless, it is undeniable that the pace of AI development and use in K-12 education in America and around the world is accelerating, driven by both the increasing recognition of AI’s potential to enhance education and the growing availability of AI technologies.

As these technologies become more sophisticated and widespread, the focus is increasingly on ensuring that their integration into education is thoughtful, inclusive, and aligned with educational goals.

The ongoing dialogue among stakeholders at national and international levels will be crucial in shaping the future of AI in education, ensuring that it serves to enhance learning experiences and outcomes for all students.

Let’s face it, the emphasis on tailoring education to meet students’ individual needs is a signi cant shi from the traditional one-size- ts-all approach and, if mastered, could lead to improved

learning outcomes across the board.

It’s evident that AI in K-12 education is a multifaceted issue requiring careful consideration of bene ts, risks, and ethical implications. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to ensure that AI technologies are implemented in such ways that enrich learning while safeguarding students’ well-being and privacy.

e U.S. Department of Education (DOE) clearly gets it and is doing its homework. ey are putting in place the necessary resources ( nancial, training, partnerships, etc.) to help schools and educational organizations ease into the eld of AI utilization and be prepared to address the many challenges ahead.

ey are taking a proactive and thoughtful approach to the integration of AI in school systems across the nation, focusing on both the opportunities and challenges presented by these technologies. By emphasizing ethical use, educator involvement, and the development of supportive policies and guidelines, the USDOE aims to facilitate the e ective and equitable use of AI in enhancing teaching and learning at every level of our educational systems.

In the future, AI will surely be able to do much more than what it can today. It will signi cantly impact our lives in so many ways. From mobile phones to social media, autonomous vehicles, home assistants, wearable devices, chatbots, and so much more, the AI invasion is here to stay.

Because the technology is advancing so fast, we will provide an AI Update each quarter going forward. ere is so much to share!

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 4 ■■ PERSPECTIVE
Curtis Weathers

Best Karaoke Night EVER ...

Let’s face it: Most people who get up to sing at a karaoke bar aren’t good, let alone great. But what happens when multiple members of the Tennessee Mass Choir meet up for karaoke at Neil’s Music Room in East Memphis? An incredible night of music, that’s what. Choir members met up at Neil’s in early February and had so much fun they came back again on Monday, March 4. Performers did popular secular hits like Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” and Anita Baker’s “Caught Up in the Rapture.” But the group did join up on stage for a powerful rendition of “I Want to Know What Love Is” to close the evening out. No word yet on whether they’ll meet up for karaoke in April . . . stay tuned! In the meantime, scan the QR code for more photos and a clip of the group performance! (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprise/Tri-State Defender)

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 5 ■■
RELIGION

Mayor Young: Memphis must show youth a ‘more hopeful path is possible’

TSD Newsroom

In February, Memphis Mayor Paul Young participated in a Summit on Youth Violence hosted by STEM4US and the Memphis Islamic Center. A er his initial remarks, Young participated in a conversation with MIC Director Talib Ibn Karim, which was recorded and posted to Youtube.

e Tri-State Defender accessed a transcript of that conversation, and with the help of arti cial intelligence, have edited Young’s 30-minute Q & A session for clarity and length.

Talib Ibn Karim: Mayor Young, amidst this pivotal moment for our community, how do you interpret our situation and proposed response?

Mayor Paul Young: We are indeed in a crisis, at a pivotal moment in our history where the direction we take is critical. e events unfolding in our community, their brazen nature, are deeply troubling. Since my rst day in o ce, I’ve been adamant that tackling this issue requires a uni ed approach. It’s not just about the immediate actions but understanding the deeper, systemic issues that have led us to this point.

Our young people, faced with dire choices, are making decisions that, while seemingly logical to them given their circumstances, lead down a path of destruction. It is absolutely critical that we, as a community, come together to show them that there are alternatives, that a di erent, more hopeful path is possible.

Q: With the city in a state of crisis, what strategies do you believe are

essential to navigate this turmoil?

Young: Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted strategy. First and foremost, we must hold those accountable who seek to terrorize our communities. But beyond accountability, we need a strong focus on intervention and prevention. For too long, our approach has been reactionary, waiting until a point of no return before we take action.

We need to identify at-risk youth early on and engage them in meaningful ways. is involves not just law enforcement but the entire community— schools, churches, community organizations—coming together to provide support and alternatives to those who feel they have none. It’s about changing the narrative and showing our young people that their community is invested in their future and well-being.

Q: In tackling public safety and youth violence, can you outline the speci c actions your administration is taking?

Young: Our administration is taking a comprehensive approach to enhance public safety and address youth violence. We’re increasing law enforcement presence in key areas, focusing on data-driven strategies to identify and intervene with the small subset of individuals responsible for the majority of serious crimes. We’re also working to improve communication and coordination among the many organizations doing critical work on the ground.

By creating a uni ed platform for these e orts, we can ensure that our resources are being used e ciently and e ectively. Furthermore, we’re conducting a thorough analysis of gun

violence incidents to better understand the networks and dynamics driving this violence. is will enable us to target our interventions more e ectively, aiming to disrupt the cycle of violence at its core.

Q: Re ecting on the broader community’s role, especially parents, what’s your vision for enhancing their involvement in this collective e ort?

Young: e role of parents and the broader community in this collective e ort cannot be overstated. Our vision is to empower parents, guardians, and community members to become proactive participants in shaping a positive future for our youth. is involves providing them with the resources, support, and education needed to e ectively guide and mentor their children.

We recognize the challenges many families face, including economic hardships, lack of access to quality education, and limited exposure to positive role models. To address these issues, we are exploring ways to reallocate our budget and resources towards programs that directly benet our youth and their families. is includes a er-school programs, job training initiatives, and community mentoring schemes. By enhancing the support structure available to parents and guardians, we aim to create a more nurturing and conducive environment for our young people to grow, learn, and thrive.

Q: As you envision Memphis’s future, particularly in terms of technology and innovation, what steps are you taking to realize this vision?

Young: “Memphis’s future as a

hub of technology and innovation is a vision that my administration is deeply committed to realizing. We are actively taking steps to attract tech companies and promote innovation within our city. is includes leveraging our strategic location and existing strengths, such as our signi cant logistics and distribution capabilities, as a foundation upon which to build our tech ecosystem. Furthermore, we are focused on nurturing our homegrown talent, particularly among our black and female populations, who represent a largely untapped resource in the tech industry. By creating partnerships with educational institutions, private sector entities, and community organizations, we aim to develop programs that foster technological skills and innovation among our youth and the broader community.”

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 6
■■ COMMUNITY
Memphis Islamic Center Director Talib Ibn Karim (left) recently hosted a National Summit on Youth Violence. Karim and Memphis Mayor Paul Young held a deep discussion on how to tackle violent crime in Memphis. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/ GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender) Cover Caption: Flanked by the type of young people he wants to keep both out of jails and morgues, Memphis Mayor Paul Young wants to engage and empower parents to help stem the wave of crime overtaking the city. To view Mayor Young’s remarks on YouTube, scan the code.

■■ COMMUNITY

Mayor Young sits down for recording of ‘Brian Clay Chronicles’

On Wednesday, February 28, the Black Business Association of Memphis held a meet and greet hosted by Brian Clay, CEO of Greater Memphis Media, Inc., in his studio located at 494 North Hollywood. e who’s who invitation-only event included a taping of e Brian Clay Chronicles, which airs on YouTube.

Show interviewees were Black Business Association President Ernest Strickland and Mayor Paul Young, City Council members Jana Swearengen-Washington and Pearl Eva Walker, as well as LeMoyne-Owen College Interim President Dr. Christopher B. Davis.

Greater Memphis Media, Inc., is listed as a Social Justice Media Company whose primary goal is “to elevate the African American Community in Memphis.”

During the pre-show reception, Mayor Young was told, “You’re everywhere.” It was a comment on his high visibility in and throughout the Memphis community.

Earlier this week, Young spoke to a crowd in Whitehaven. Last week, he delivered remarks as a recent Kappa Alpha Psi banquet. Earlier this year, he attended a vigil for Tyre Nichols. Since his inauguration on January 1, 2024, he has appeared almost everywhere — which is clearly his intent.

“We’re everywhere,” he said, “and we’re going to stay engaged. We show up and be present – doing the work, bringing a di erent energy to solve new and old problems.”

He gave two examples during his short talk. Young mentioned he had met with gang members and asked for a cease re. He said that as a result, those gang members agreed to put their

guns down and stop the killing – if certain conditions were met.

“My ask for them in that conversation,” Young said, “was can we get a seven-day cease re? Just seven days where there’s no shooting, no killing? And they said, ‘Yeah, we would be willing to do that,’ and they gave me a couple of caveats.”

ose caveats? Good-paying jobs and

the training necessary to qualify for those jobs.

In his second example, Mayor Young said that when temperatures plunged below freezing in February, warming centers were opened from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Young speci cally mentioned two locations – one for single women and families at the Hospitality Hub, 590 Washington Ave.; and a second one for

single men and couples at Greenlaw Community Center, 190 Mill Ave. Sack meals and blankets were also provided.

“Everyone was welcome,” he said, noting that guests needed to check in upon arrival, but were not required to show identi cation. “( e main concern was providing) a safe, kind, and respectful environment.”

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 7
Since his inauguration, Memphis Mayor Paul Young has been on a listening tour across Memphis. On Feb. 28, media personality Brian Clay welcomed Young to North Memphis for a recording of his YouTube talk show, “The Brian Clay Chronicles.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Birthday Girl: Alma Lewis Hassell celebrates being 98 years young

Margaret Hassell took a moment to re ect on the special day they had just celebrated - her mother, Alma Lewis Hassell’s 98th birthday.

“We just want to say we’re grateful,” Margaret Hassell said. “She’s an absolutely wonderful, loving, supportive and independent woman of God — even at 98.”

e birthday girl, Alma Hassell, was born Feb. 23, 1926 in Macon, Tennessee. About 35 friends and family members gathered at Piccadilly Cafeteria in Germantown to celebrate the

matriarch’s life — a life lled with love, support, and independence, qualities that Margaret admires deeply.

e fellowship at Piccadilly’s was not just a birthday party; it was a testament to Alma’s enduring spirit and the impact she has had on those around her. When asked about how she felt about the day, Alma’s response was lled with gratitude and happiness.

“Oh, I certainly enjoyed the birthday celebration today,” Alma Hassell said. “Everything seemingly went wonderful. ank you. ank you, very much.”

is birthday was more than a number; it was a celebration of a life lived with grace, strength,

(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Entrprises/TriStateDefender)

and unwavering faith. Alma’s 98th birthday brought together those who have been touched by her kindness and resilience, making it a day to remember for everyone involved.

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 8
■■ COMMUNITY
Alma Hassell turned 98 years young in February, with a celebration with family and friends Alma Hassell was surrounded by friends and family for her 98th Birthday at Picadilly Cafeteria.

‘Look Back, Launch Forward’ event celebrates and commemorates Memphis 13

Dozens screen

“The Memphis 13” documentary at Crosstown Concourse

Last week, the Memphis community gathered for an extraordinary event, “Look Back, Launch Forward,” a collaboration between e Memphis 13 Foundation and the Crosstown Arts Film Series, held at Crosstown Concourse.

is event was not just a commemoration but a profound call to action, weaving the themes of inclusion, tolerance, and social change into a tapestry of re ection and dialogue.

At its core, “Look Back, Launch Forward” aimed to honor the brave actions of e Memphis 13, whose courage in desegregating Memphis Public Schools in 1961 continues to inspire the path toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

Central to the evening was the screening of “THE MEMPHIS 13,” a documentary directed by Daniel Kiel. is powerful lm serves as a beacon, illuminating the stories of thirteen remarkable young individuals whose bravery transcended their age.

It’s a narrative that not only pays homage to their legacy but also ignites conversations about the essentiality of fostering inclusion, tolerance, and social change within our communities.

is screening set the stage for a deeper engagement with the past, a mindful acknowledgment of the present, and a collective aspiration for a future enriched with comprehensive understanding and unity.

Following the lm, the event featured

a panel discussion with members of e Memphis 13, including Dwania Kyles, Leandrew Wiggins, Alvin Freeman, Sharon Malone, Sheila Malone Conway, Jacqueline Moore-Christion, and Menelik Fombi (formerly Michael Willis), moderated by Dory Lerner from the National Civil Rights Museum.

is dialogue was not only a re ection on their historic journey but also an exploration of how their legacy continues to impact modern e orts toward social justice. e discussions culminated in an onstage conversation between Danette Stokes, President of the

United Education Association of Shelby County, and Dory Lerner. Rather than delivering a keynote, this discussion provided a platform for exploring the intersections of education, civil rights, and the ongoing work required to achieve true equity and inclusion.

As guests arrived, the event’s atmosphere was enriched by the African sounds of musical guest Ekpe Abioto, setting an appropriate tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating history, courage, and the potential for positive societal transformation.

“Look Back, Launch Forward” offered the Memphis community a rare

opportunity to re ect on the past, embrace the present, and pave the way for a future where meaningful connections are forged through shared history and collective aspirations for social change.

Inclusion, tolerance, and social change were not merely themes of the evening; they are the pillars upon which e Memphis 13 Foundation and the Crosstown Arts Film Series build their mission. As we move forward, let the legacy of e Memphis 13 remind us of the power of unity and the importance of each individual’s contribution to cra ing a more equitable and inclusive society.

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 9 ■■
COMMUNITY
Surviving members of the Memphis 13 participated in a panel discussion about their experiences (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

LEGAL NOTICE

Request for Bids

RFB Number 24-0012

JANITORIAL SUPPLIES

Sealed bids for Janitorial Supplies will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, Memphis International Airport, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM local time, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Responses will be opened and publicly read thirty (30) minutes after the response deadline via Microsoft Teams Meeting.

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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 Bidder 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 Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids 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.

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NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Jeremy Kaaiakamanu

Tax Parcel #: 03505600000060

Tax Sale #: 903

Price Offered: $5,000

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

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Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 10

MEMPHIS, TN 38134

(901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Denia Solis

Tax Parcel #: 06200600000020

Tax Sale #: 1904

Price Offered: $3,400

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

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NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Tylan Hibler

Tax Parcel #: 05004100000290

Tax Sale #: 1802

Price Offered: $15,800

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

PUBLIC NOTICES / CLASSIFIEDS

John Love III

Tax Parcel #: 0500720000020C

Tax Sale #: 1002

Price Offered: $2,500

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:30 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

John Love III

Tax Parcel #: 05007300000270

Tax Sale #: 1003

Price Offered: $1,800

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 11 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY

GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

John Love III

Tax Parcel #: 05002800000220

Tax Sale #: 1203

Price Offered: $1400

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 11:30 a.m. on 4/3/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office,

to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank

1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1

MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

John Love III

Tax Parcel #: 05002800000210

Tax Sale #: 1002

Price Offered: $2,000

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9 a.m. on 4/9/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Melvin Womack

Tax Parcel #: 02405000000330

Tax Sale #: 1603

Price Offered: $500

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9 a.m. on 4/9/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1

MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL

PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Brownlee Stewart LLC

Tax Parcel #: 05000500000020

Tax Sale #: 1802

Price Offered: $3,500

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10 a.m. on 4/9/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1

MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §675-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

Andre Harris

Tax Parcel #: 04503000000210

Tax Sale #: 1904

Price Offered: $3,000

Terms: Cash

Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:30 a.m. on 4/9/2024, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 11

Six West Tennessee schools set to compete for Boys TSSAA Championship

e TSSAA Boys Basketball Championship Tournament starts Wednesday, March 13 at the Murphy Center in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Several Memphis-area and West Tennessee teams are hoping to battle through to the championship round on Saturday, March 16.

We’ve got the brackets for you below, and you can check our website for the results. Tip-o times may shi based on previous games. And if you’re not

going, you can watch the action locally on WMC-TV 5.5. Here are the rst-round matchups for area teams:

Class 1A (March. 13):

Union City (29-5) vs. Chattanooga Prep (24-6) — 4 p.m.

Memphis Middle College (24-9) vs. Gordonsville (23-10) — 7:15 p.m.

Class 2A (March. 14):

Douglass (33-0) vs. Austin East (23-11) — 11 a.m.

Ripley (28-7) vs. Cannon County 25-7) — 2:15 p.m.

Class 3A (March. 14):

Fayette-Ware (24-5) vs. Fulton (32-2) — 8:45 p.m.

Class 4A (March. 13):

Bartlett (31-4) vs. Brentwood (20-12) — 11 a.m.

2024 Class 2A State Boys' Basketball Tournament

2024 Class 4A State Boys' Basketball Tournament

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 12 ■■ SPORTS
Class 1A State Boys' Basketball Tournament March 13 - March 16, 2024 · MTSU - Murphy Center H Chattanooga Prep (24-6) Game 1 Wed. Mar. 13 4:00 PM MTSU Union City (29-5) H Game 5 Fri. Mar. 15 12:45 PM MTSU H Game 7 Sat. Mar. 16 1:30 PM MTSU H Santa Fe (25-5) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 1 Game 2 Wed. Mar. 13 5:30 PM MTSU North Greene (21-15) H Gordonsville (23-10) Game 3 Wed. Mar. 13 7:15 PM MTSU M. Middle College (24-9) H Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 5 Game 6 Fri. Mar. 15 2:15 PM MTSU STATE CHAMPION H Jellico (20-11) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 3 Game 4 Wed. Mar. 13 8:45 PM MTSU Frank Hughes (24-9) 2024 Class 3A State Boys' Basketball Tournament March 13 - March 16, 2024 · MTSU - Murphy Center H Creek Wood (22-8) Game 1 Thu. Mar. 14 4:00 PM MTSU Red Bank (28-7) H Game 5 Fri. Mar. 15 7:15 PM MTSU H Game 7 Sat. Mar. 16 6:30 PM MTSU H David Crockett (28-6) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 1 Game 2 Thu. Mar. 14 5:30 PM MTSU Ridgeway / Bolivar Central H Upperman (29-4) Game 3 Thu. Mar. 14 7:15 PM MTSU Hume-Fogg (25-6) H Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 5 Game 6 Fri. Mar. 15 8:45 PM MTSU STATE CHAMPION H Fayette-Ware (24-5) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 3 Game 4 Thu. Mar. 14 8:45 PM MTSU Fulton (32-2)
2024
13 - March 16, 2024 · MTSU - Murphy Center H Whites Creek (25-5) Game 1 Thu. Mar. 14 9:30 AM MTSU Hickman Co. (22-9) H Game 5 Fri. Mar. 15 4:00 PM MTSU H Game 7 Sat. Mar. 16 4:00 PM MTSU H Austin-East (23-11) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 1 Game 2 Thu. Mar. 14 11:00 AM MTSU Douglass (33-0) H East Nashville (15-9) Game 3 Thu. Mar. 14 12:45 PM MTSU Alcoa (23-13) H Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 5 Game 6 Fri. Mar. 15 5:30 PM MTSU STATE CHAMPION H Cannon Co. (25-7) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 3 Game 4 Thu. Mar. 14 2:15 PM MTSU Ripley (28-7)
March
March 13 - March 16, 2024 · MTSU - Murphy Center H Maryville (26-7) Game 1 Wed. Mar. 13 9:30 AM MTSU Cookeville (30-3) H Game 5 Fri. Mar. 15 9:30 AM MTSU H Game 7 Sat. Mar. 16 11:00 AM MTSU H Bartlett (31-4) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 1 Game 2 Wed. Mar. 13 11:00 AM MTSU Brentwood (20-12) H Morristown East (29-8) Game 3 Wed. Mar. 13 12:45 PM MTSU Rossview (24-9) H Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 5 Game 6 Fri. Mar. 15 11:00 AM MTSU STATE CHAMPION H Independence (29-6) Starts 15 Minutes after Conclusion of Game 3 Game 4 Wed. Mar. 13 2:15 PM MTSU LaVergne (23-11)

PUZZLES

Week of: March 7, 2024 TRI-STATE DEFENDER | tsdmemphis.com Page 13

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