65.9 F
Memphis
Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Buy now

<
>

EDGE pledges $250K for improvements to help Memphis businesses deter crime

0

In an effort to fight crime, the Economic Development Growth Engine Board recently approved up to $250,000 annually to fund improvements in high-crime areas.

The program is a part of a “holistic” approach to crime reduction the City of Memphis Mayor Paul Young’s administration has taken. The upgrades will feature urban and architectural designs, along with the use of the natural surrounding environment. 

The first-term mayor has made crime-reduction the priority of his administration.

“As part of our commitment to fostering economic vitality and community safety, we are proud to partner with EDGE and introduce a groundbreaking initiative that combines economic empowerment with crime prevention,” said City of Memphis Mayor Paul Young in a statement. 

“By investing in this effort, we not only spur economic development but also create safer environments that empower residents and deter criminal activity. Together, we are reshaping the narrative of our neighborhoods, turning challenges into opportunities, and building a brighter future for all.”

Eligible small businesses can apply for loans to make improvements, like lighting and camera installation, or fencing. 

EDGE approved the measure during its April 17 meeting and will fund the program for four years on an annual basis.

“CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Designs) exemplifies our dedication to innovative solutions and underscores our belief in the transformative potential of empowering local businesses,” said Dr. Joann Massey, EDGE Vice President of Operations in a statement. “This initiative underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation, resilience, and the belief that every small business deserves the chance to thrive.”

The requirements will be much like the nonprofit Inner City Economic Development (ICED) program, which allow for a maximum of $25,000 to individual businesses. ICED loans are also allotted for CPTEDs.

A memorandum of agreement will be entered into by the City of Memphis and EDGE. It will spell out the requirements and responsibilities of applicants.

Following due diligence, businesses that quality will receive funding through loans or reimbursement grants.

EDGE is the economic development agency for both the City of Memphis and Shelby County.

SLIDESHOW: Scenes from a beautiful day at Africa In April 2024 in Downtown Memphis

0
From the 90s, hip-hop group Arrested Development rocked their top hit "Tennessee" at Africa in April 2024. (Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprise/Tri-State Defender)

Africa in April 2024 took place recently in Downtown Memphis and our photographer, Gary S. Whitlow was on hand with his camera.

There are so many great images, we’re still going through them and will update this slideshow, but we didn’t want to wait to get you these great sights from Africa in April! Check them out — and check again, because more are on the way!

What people are saying in wake of Orange Mound Block Party Shooting

0

Nine people shot. Two dead.

Those are among the latest casualties in Memphis’ ongoing war with gun violence. This time, it was an unsanctioned block party in Orange Mound where gunfire sent some people running for cover and others to the hospital.

Disturbing video from social media shows groups of young men waving guns in the air before the chaos ensued. Video from a dropped phone sounds like a war zone in Gaza or Ukraine, with the distinct chatter of automatic gunfire and screaming. This clip seems to catch the moment the gunfire started, followed by a stampede of people running for their lives:

Police are still searching for suspects, but the identities of the deceased have been confirmed:

And based on reactions on social media, people are searching for . . . . answers? Meaning? Sense? Maybe all of that. But from elected officials to community leaders, everyone wants the violence to stop. In a statement, Althea Greene, Chair of the MCSC School Board, chimed in on the tragedy:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic mass shooting that happened in Orange Mound this past weekend. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are deeply impacted by this tragedy. We echo the sentiments of our city and county leaders that we all must do our part to stop these senseless acts of violence and protect our young people and the future of this city.”

State Senator Antonio Parkinson, like many of us, is sending “thoughts and prayers” but says more action is needed to tighten up gun laws.

State Rep. Justin J. Pearson:

State Sen. Raumesh Akbari:

The TSD will provide more coverage as this story develops.

Memphis leaders hope proposed police foundation can support MPD in fighting crime

0
Memphis Mayor Paul Young still stands by Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn 'C.J.' Davis, who will now serve in an interim role, with hopes she can win the job permanently again. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

During the recent Black Mayor’s Coalition on Crime gathering in Memphis, participants got to exchange ideas and concepts with one another in hopes of reducing crime. And it appears that on at least one concept, Memphis has found a template to follow.

This week, Memphis City Council Chair JB Smiley Jr. is expected to introduce an ordinance creating a public safety foundation. The foundation would conduct research and accept private donations to help fund crime reduction efforts.

The model is based on a similar program in Atlanta, where interim Memphis Police Chief CJ Davis was previously a command officer. Smiley made the announcement prior to the April 9 full council meeting. 

He was joined by Mayor Paul Young and interim Memphis Police Department Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis, as he spoke to reporters. Several fellow council members were present too.

“I think what this signifies by the various people standing here, that this administration, this council, this chamber means business when it comes to crime,” said Smiley.

The proposed philanthropic and research foundation would be funded by private donations. It would also be tailored to Memphis’ specific needs. 

Along with researching best practices, the foundation could aid officer recruitment and retention through tuition reimbursement. It could also pickup the tab on the costs of allowing off-duty officers to take patrol cars home. Both are currently funded in the budget.

If the proposal passes, a consultant is expected to be hired. 

Another potential hire could be a public-safety director position for the City of Memphis. Mayor Young has announced his intentions to create the position. 

The appointee could work alongside the foundation and Davis.

Prior to the selection of the Atlanta model, city leaders had expressed interest in different approaches to tackling pervasive crime. In late March, Young hosted a conference of Black leaders from 18 U.S. cities.  Crime reduction efforts were on the tips of attendants’ tongues throughout the three day summit.

Ethics hearing regarding City Councilwoman’s employment delayed to late May

0

A Memphis Board of Ethics hearing related to Memphis City Council member Michalyn Easter-Thomas’ day job with the Memphis River Parks Partnership was delayed on Wednesday, April 10.

The matter has been rescheduled for May 29. Attorneys Wharton and Rodrick Holmes, who represent Easter-Thomas and the board, respectively – made the request. 

Rebecca Neves, an employee of A2H, lodged the complaint in January. The Lakeland-based architectural and engineering firm was retained by Memphis Urban Wood, to build a biomass campus in a blighted area of North Memphis.

Thomas, who represents the District 7 area that includes neighborhoods like Klondike and Smokey City, consistently opposed the project. So did several community groups. 

Eventually, her constituents cooled to the proposed facility too. Despite the promise of sure jobs to an underserved area, resident worries over air quality and health concerns scuttled the project. 

Memphis Urban Wood canceled the development in mid-March, before a final vote by the council could be held.

It was during one a community group meeting that Neves’ name first circulated. Following the complaint, it was noted  – along with her employer – on a fact sheet distributed to media during a March meeting.

The biomass facility was a joint project with The Works. Over the years, the CDC has been involved in several projects, primarily in South Memphis. However, its mission has expanded to the North Memphis area. 

Previously, the organization has partnered with the Klondike-Smokey City to invest in the long-neglected communities. Along with revitalizing numerous homes – occupied or not – other projects included redeveloping the abandoned Northside High School building into a multi-purpose facility.

Thomas opposed those too.

Neves denies any employer involvement in the complaint. Neither did A2H leadership.

Roshun Austin, CEO of The Works, echoed the denials of involvement.

Thomas – whose employer manages several Memphis-area parks –  has referred questions to her attorney.

Throughout her time on the council, she has routinely recused herself from City of Memphis Parks Dept.-related votes. It is her second term.

Available now in e-Edition: Cowboys, cowgirls and BRIDGES

0
TSD e-Edition available NOW!

If you’ve been following us in 2024, you know things are different.

We’ve gone paperless (mostly — more on that in a moment), so we can ramp up our online operations. Thus we’ve introduced the “e-Edition” of our newspaper. It’s a whole new look and feel for us here at TSD, and we think it’s symbolic of a new era of covering Memphis and the Mid South as only we can.

In this edition, we bring you highlights from the Bill Pickett Rodeo, which hit Agricenter last weekend. We also celebrate “Building Bridges” and the great work that Bridges USA does with young people. And Interim Editor Lee Eric Smith brings perspective from Mayor Paul Young’s 100-Day Speech at Mount Vernon. Of course, you can read all of that online, but we think you’ll dig it on the page too.

Our newly redesigned Print Edition — circulating on paper somewhere near you! More to come!

Speaking of the page: There IS a print version of the TSD out now, though in limited circulation. As we continue to rebuild our distribution network, you’ll see it more, but look for our monthly print edition featuring the Black Mayor’s Coalition on Crime out and about.

Click below to access a PDF of our paper — laid out in familiar style. You can flip pages, zoom, etc., all from your computer, tablet or smartphone. And be on the lookout for our monthly print edition as we get closer to May!

There are many more changes on the way! Stay with us and stay tuned!

County Commission Audit Committee wants Halbert to present plan for corrective action

0
Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert

Members of the Shelby County Commission Audit Committee passed a resolution pressing the Shelby County Clerk’s office to provide a corrective action plan addressing recommendations from the Tennessee State Comptroller’s office during its Wednesday, April 17 meeting.

The item also calls on County Clerk Wanda Halbert to explain why her department hasn’t adhered to the directives – including submitting financial reports for March and April. The reports are due on the 10th of every month.

“We’re going to be in the same situation we’ve been in for the last many months, of flying blind and not knowing what our revenues are. So it really is incumbent upon this body to ensure that these recommendations are being followed up on. That’s what we’re requesting from the clerk,” said Commissioner Mick Wright (Dist. 3).

Halbert did not appear at the meeting.

Tennessee State Comptroller Jason Mumpower sent a team of auditors to Memphis in early March, after Shelby County Trustee Regina Newman pulled inaccurate revenue reports submitted by the clerk’s office.

The list of recommendations from the state followed.

It was the second audit of the department. The county previously cracked the department’s books at the request of the commission. The state comptroller’s office concurred with its assessment.

“She is now on notice that errors have been found, or that a corrective action must occur. She must adhere to that,” said Shelby County Director of Budget and Finance Audrey Tipton. “I can say we are receiving her reports right now. We want to continue to monitor that and review what she has to ensure that it’s correct.”

Issues with Halbert’s management of the clerk’s office date back to the height of the pandemic, when a months-long backlog of vehicle tags and other county issued permits occurred. Numerous difficulties have beset the office since.

The news that Halbert is issuing reports gave one member pause. There were also concerns the commission was overstepping its bounds. Like the sheriff’s department, the clerk’s office is imbued with a degree of autonomy.

“We will learn at the next budget season review in proper timing, whether or not the corrective action plan was honored,” said Commissioner Britney Thornton (Dist. 10). “That is required by the auditors…There are no additional processes we have to address. Those were already addressed in process.”

She also pointed to shortfalls in staffing that has plagued the clerk’s office during Halbert’s tenure. However, those needs were not brought up the county’s ladder. 

“Clerk Halbert has not made a request. This is the third year in a row that she’s made that representation, but has not made a request of HR to have such compensation studied,” said Gerald Thornton, Shelby County Director of Human Resources.

“She will call every now and then through her representative and say they think they have extra money,” he continued. “After we explain to them the processes, there has not been a follow up from the clerk’s office since I’ve been here.”

It is Director Thornton’s third year with the department.

The calls for patience also failed to resonate with members. The county requires monthly reports so it can track and estimate revenues. The fact that Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris is currently prepping a budget for submission to the commission underscores their necessity.

The resolution passed 5-2. Voting in favor  were Charlie Caswell, Amber Mills, Mark Whaley, David Bradford and Wright. 

Members Erika Sugarmon and Thornton voted no, while Edmund Ford, Jr. abstained.

The item moves to the full commission with a favorable recommendation. A second reading is expected during the upcoming Monday, April 22 meeting.

Wright amended the resolution to request the reports for March and April. The original item called for reports for February and March.

New Dawn Social Services to host benefit concert April 20

0
New Dawn Benefit Concert is set for April 20 at Mt. Vernon

New Dawn Social Services (NDSS), a Memphis-based non-profit organization that works to help men and women reenter the community after incarceration or rehabilitation, is hosting a benefit concert on April 20th. 

The concert will be held at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church from 7:00 to 9:00 pm and will feature local performers Mzzz. Kecia, Kimberly Verner, Stevenon Clark, Brittney Pruitt, and Danny Cosby. 

All proceeds from the concert will go to support NDSS’s programs and services, which help residents with housing, financial literacy classes, mental health counseling, and addiction recovery support. NDSS also has a program specifically for women called Mary’s Place, which provides transitional housing and support services.

“Individuals being released from the penal and rehabilitation institutions need access to effective and evidence-based reentry programs that provide a written plan of action, wrap-around services, and resources to decrease the risk of re-entry and relapse,” says a statement on the nonprofit’s website. “New Dawn Social Services exists to help those individuals become productive citizens and start afresh with the proper tools & resources to be successful.”

NDSS has a four-phase program that residents must complete. The first phase focuses on assessment and goal setting. The second phase provides residents with the resources they need to meet their goals, such as housing, employment, and education assistance. The third phase helps residents to develop the skills they need to live independently, such as budgeting, cooking, and parenting. The fourth phase is focused on aftercare support.

According to the NDSS website, the organization has a 72 percent success rate, meaning that about 7 out of 10 former residents are able to live independently or with loved ones and maintain their sobriety after completing the program.

The benefit concert is a great opportunity to learn more about NDSS and the important work they do, as well as to enjoy some great music. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at https://www.ndssmemphis.com/how-to-help or by scanning the QR code.

WATCH: Mayor Paul Young makes case for proposed tax increase during 100-Day Address

0

Now roughly 100-days into his first term as Mayor, Paul Young continues to celebrate his administration’s early victories, acknowledge the setbacks, and ask Memphians to get involved in making the city a better, safer place to live.

And with a transparency not often seen in politics, Young announced that when he presents his budget to the City Council next week, it will include a request for a tax increase.

Hundreds of Memphians — police, council members, community leaders and citizens — filled the lower level of Mount Vernon Church in Southwest Memphis for Young’s 100-day address on Tuesday evening.

In his opening remarks, he ran down the highlights of his tenure so far, including the recent Black Mayor’s Coalition on Crime meeting in Memphis, the latest data on trash pickup and blight control, and other early victories.

But he also acknowledged the “hits” Memphis keeps taking, including a shooting he learned about at Douglass Park literally minutes before he took the stage. He paused to honor the men and women of the Memphis Police Department, and requesting a moment of silence for Officer Joseph McKinney, who was killed in the line of duty last week.

And throughout his speech, Young was clearly seeking to inspire, painting a vision of Memphis that’s mostly free from litter and neighborhoods with high-speed fiber optic internet access.

“Envision a transit system that effectively connects residents with jobs, childcare, healthcare, and groceries,” he said. “A system where a single card allows you to access buses, micro-transit options, vibrant community centers, and your local library to check out materials, content, and classes.”

But Young also knew he had to ask for something as well.

“But we really, simply and plainly, need more revenue,” Young said. “As much as I don’t want to be the one standing here and saying that, I also don’t want to be the one to let you down — to allow you to live in a neighborhood where ‘getting by’ is the standard.

“Our current budget keeps us where we are. And we’re good at getting by,” Young continued. “But I think it’s time for us to step into a reality that allows us to flourish. When I go to City Council next week to present our budget, I’m going to ask for a tax increase.

“I’m putting it out there straight, no lying, so you can hear directly from me,” he added. “I’d rather not ask. But I believe it’s the right thing for our city.”

Young announced a number of other initiatives:

Here are the key announcements from Mayor Paul Young’s 100 Day address organized with brief explanations for each initiative:

  • New Public Safety Positions: The addition of two high-level public safety roles including a public safety advisor to the mayor and a chief strategist for public safety, focusing on data-driven approaches and community safety efforts.
  • Establishment of a Police Foundation: A new foundation to enhance law enforcement resources and community policing initiatives, announced in collaboration with the Memphis City Council and the Greater Memphis Chamber.
  • $50 Million Challenge Grant: A significant funding boost for community safety and development, with a national foundation providing a challenge grant to be matched by local donations, aiming for a total of $100 million.
  • Data Sharing and Collaboration Agreements: Initiatives to improve coordination and data sharing among local law enforcement, judicial systems, and educational institutions to better target crime prevention and intervention.
  • Reduction of Crime Goals: A commitment to reducing violent crime by 10% annually, supported by new strategies and the public safety dashboard to be unveiled in a weekly newsletter.
  • SEPED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) Grants: Announced a partnership with EDGE for providing $1 million in SEPED grants over four years to help businesses implement safety improvements.

But as he closed out, Young made a plea for HUMAN resources as well — people to roll up their sleeves and stay upbeat even in the face of depressing news.

“When the world hears about us, I want them to think of black wealth, culture, arts, and excellence,” he said. “I’m going to ask you, the residents of Memphis, to help keep part of that culture here. Stay in Memphis and help us continue the work of making our city better.”

Specifically, Young admonished young people who may feel like the grass is greener in other cities to stay home and nurture the grass right here.

“If you’re a young person thinking your talents will be better served elsewhere, reconsider because Memphis needs you,” he pleaded. “We need you to be the future of tech, transit, and workforce development. We need you to make medical breakthroughs and platinum records. We need you to open restaurants and retail shops, to join boards, and to use your voices for good. We need you to mentor, give back, and run for office.

“Creating the Memphis we all want to see is going to take everybody,” he said. “I firmly believe that we’re going to look back at 2024 and say this is when the change happened.

“We keep getting hit with negative news, but instead of becoming defeated, we become more determined,” he said. “Let’s go out and do it.”

After the speech, Young met with media:

 

From its inception, Africa in April has been about the village’s children

0
Drawn by the African drums, four-year-old Ayden Christopher beats his way forward. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

The 2022 Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival was vibrant with children, an indication that its original intent has taken root.

Dr. David Acey

“I was at the gate where so many children came in,” said Executive Director Dr. David Acey. “There is never a charge for the younger ones, but I told many of the teens to just come on it because it was so wonderful seeing our children come out to the festival.”

For four-year-old Ayden Christopher, there were two things that made his first visit to Africa in April memorable: the African drums and superbubble shooter toys. When asked what he liked most about the festival, Ayden answered, “I like my new friends and all the bubbles.”

Children and teens were seen having bubble-shooting battles on the grass in the middle of Church Park. Ayden and his “new friends” screamed and ran, dodging bubble clouds and shooting back.

Youngsters gravitated to the African drums, walking right up and trying their hand at beating them. Ayden made quite the haul during his time at the festival, leaving with a drum, two bubble shooters, a light-up sword, and memories made with “new friends.”

Stacy Ragston, daughter of the late Memphis singer, Ruby Wilson, brought her grandchildren to Africa in April. She said the outing was their “back to happy” after the pandemic. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

“Children are really what this is all about,” said Stacey Ragston, daughter of the late Memphis singer, Ruby Wilson.

“I brought my grandchildren because I want them to see Africa in April and experience their culture,” said Ragston. “Children have been running and playing all day. It’s just so good to see them outside again. This is our ‘back to happy’ from a pandemic that robbed us of so much.”

Mother of twins, Rosalyn Gates, gloried in the warmth of “village” and “community.” She stored away glimpses of her 5-year-old girls running in the grass with other children, shooting cascades of bubbles.

“Normally, when I take the girls out somewhere, I am frantically looking after them every moment,” said Gates. “But I can see them playing with other children, and I know their screams and laughter. I wanted to show my girls African culture, but they are getting more than just an education.

“Older adults are looking (after) the children. It feels like a village. It feels like community. We are not strangers here, but neighbors.”

Children being children at the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival. (Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

According to organizers of the 35th Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, an estimated 30,000 were in attendance during the five-day event. This year, the Republic of Malawi was honored.

“When we first started, there was only a vision,” said Acey. “We wanted the festival in spring, the time of renewal and rebirth. We wanted our people to be educated about where they came from. So, we honor African countries. We had no money, just a dream. And 35 years later, we see the village manifested. There is no village without the children.”

The celebration was set in historic Robert R. Church Park in downtown Memphis, April 20-24.

Mbyesey Kah, a vendor selling bubble shooters and light-up swords, did well with his variety of children’s toys. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell/The New Tri-State Defender)

Mbyesey Kah, the vendor selling bubble shooters and light-up swords, did very well with his variety of children’s toys.

“This is my sixth year at Africa in April,” said Kah. “Business is always quite good, but there is something more.  Such a spirit of unity, something I really love. I am from Senegal, but my business is in Atlanta now.

“In all of my years at Africa in April, I have never seen so many children. We are running out of all the toys. Watching the children makes me happy. It reminds me of our village at home.”

For Acey, the festival was different this year in a very significant way.

“The festival has two very important elements of African life,” said Acey. “The village and the marketplace – they are essential to African culture. Our vendors and the children have created both. But our children are the heart of the village. I will remember 2022 as the year of the village. It is such a beautiful thing.”