Links to Some of My Writing Samples
These are writing samples of social media captions that I've done as a junior writer for GJC Publicity. (I'm not responsible for the graphics for these.)
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From Bridges, Not Walls
Examining the impact and environment for social entrepreneurship in Memphis
Published: November 2017
A program that started in a Teach for America instructor’s classroom as a way to challenge his students to impact their community, has morphed into a program that includes over 2,000 students from 25 different schools in Memphis...
Published: November 2017
A program that started in a Teach for America instructor’s classroom as a way to challenge his students to impact their community, has morphed into a program that includes over 2,000 students from 25 different schools in Memphis...
"Humble servant" striving to help others: Linda Hall speaks about role as U of M's dean of multicultural affairs
Published: November 2017
After a long day of working as the University of Memphis’s associate dean of multicultural affairs, a tired Linda Hall arrived home and flipped through the fall 2017 edition of The University of Memphis Magazine...
From the New Tri-State Defender
Stronger Together
Published: April 14, 2017
Unity was the central theme last week as members of the Northeast Shelby County Rotary Club met with Northwest Shelby County Rotary Club members...
Alternative sentencing program powered by Northwest Shelby County Rotary Club
Published: April 7, 2017
The Northwest Shelby County Club is extending support and resources to troubled youth and their families with it's new alternative sentencing program....
'Sacred Resistance'
Published: April 6, 2017
In circle formation, a group of Memphians united by sacred resistance used the park at the Ed Rice Community Center to signal their intent to secure justice and foster peace and love...
Employment in Frayser
Published: March 31, 2017
For many, the job searching and retaining process is a challenge, and multiple factors can amplify that difficulty for residents in a community such as Frayser...
Kyle Veazey: Meeting people where they are
Published: March 16, 2017
As the deputy communications director for the City of Memphis, Kyle Veazey is involved with positioning Mayor Jim Strickland’s administration to communicate directly with the citizens it serves...
Memphis-area students 'storm the hill'
Published: March 3, 2017
Thirty students from the Frayser, Raleigh, Westwood and Millington areas had a firsthand look at how the state legislature functions during the “Students Storm the Hill” trip to Nashville, Feb. 22....
Pathways in Education offers an alternate path to success in Frayser
Published: February 24, 2017
Estle Lawrence, 20, started off in the Frayser location of “Pathways in Education” feeling like he had a long road ahead of him and no other option...
Frayser residents give 'State of the City' address mixed reviews
Published: February 17, 2017
When Mayor Jim Strickland delivered his State of the City address in Frayser last week, he highlighted achievements made and the challenges faced by the city and his administration. He also endeavored to make one other thing clear – Memphis is going strong...
Girlz Invasion stays focused on putting bullying in check
Published: February 11, 2017
When Alexis Burnett found out that someone she knew was a victim of bullying, she knew it was time to try and make change...
MLK College Prep band makes $10,000 pitch to take its show on the road
Published: February 2, 2017
Music is a passion that the King College Prep Marching Band at MLK College Preparatory High School hopes to share in New Orleans during the Mardi Gras festivities later this month...
At Peace with My Dream: Q&A with Coach Stanley McNeil
Published: January 27, 2017
Stanley McNeil, a special education teacher and coach of the Westside Achievement Middle School Wildcats boys basketball team, dreamed of playing professional basketball. It came true when he played for the Harlem Globetrotters in 2012...
Teens 'go live' in Frayser
Published: January 27, 2017
On a Friday evening in Frayser, a back room in the Ed Rice Community Center served as a space where teens could gain insight about topics such as the importance of making productive choices...
A Culture of Support
Published: January 20, 2017
Common sense dictates that a school’s culture affects learning, with a reasonable addendum being that many things go into the making of that culture. At Westside Achievement Middle School, the cultural mix for the 2016-17 school year is getting a substantive amount of winning basketball...
Cater to You by Nesha
Published: January 14, 2017
Reneshia “Nesha” Douglas’ grew up in Frayser and lived there off and on for several years. It was there that she developed an early interest in cooking that budded into a talent that started to show in her pre-teen years. A Bartlett resident, she’s doggedly focused on taking advantage of her Frayser roots and opening a restaurant there to give residents a wider range of eating-out options...
The Husband Institute
Published: January 5, 2017
One Sunday, Apostle Ricky Floyd of Pursuit of God Church in Frayser asked members of his congregation a series of questions...
Community Prosecution Plan to Debut in Frayser
Published: December 22, 2016
District Attorney General Amy Weirich is hoping to make Frayser safer and lessen crime in the area with the help of two judges, a support staff and members of the Frayser community...
Rotary Club coming to Frayser
Published: December 8, 2016
The desire to encourage Frayser business owners to be more active in their communities and with each other has motivated some local clergy members and business owners to form the Frayser Rotary Club...
Memphis 3.0 sinks roots in Frayser in pursuit of strategic plan
Published: December 1, 2016
Katrina Scott-Davis has lived in Frayser for four years. On Monday night, she made her way over to the Ed Rice Community Center for the first in a series of Memphis 3.0 kickoff rallies...
Thankful in Frayser
Published: November 24, 2016
The New Tri-State Defender asked some of Frayser’s citizens and community leaders what they’re most grateful for this Thanksgiving. Here’s what they had to say....
Spencer's Total Fitness: making Frayser healthier
Published: November 12, 2016
Tyrone Spencer, a certified personal trainer with over a decade of experience, opened Spencer’s Total Fitness gym at 2285 Frayser Blvd. about a year ago. Today the membership totals 1,600, he said...
Centurian Community Support Center hopes to make 'tremendous impact'
Published: November 4, 2016
A Frayser Neighborhood Council member is hoping to provide what she says are some much-needed resources in Frayser, by opening a support center...
Q&A: Lynsi Hartman's quest to inspire hope and change through art
Published: October 28, 2016
Lynsi Hartman, a former art educator and three-year Frayser resident, is determined to use art as a tool to inspire her community. The mural located on Dellwood Ave. across from MLK College Preparatory High School is her design. She raised funds to get it done and then shephered it to completion....
Trial by Fire
Published: October 13, 2016
The Rev. Antonio Mattox, pastor of Frayser’s New Salem Fellowship Ministries, was in Millington a couple of weeks ago when he got a call from ADT notifying him that the church’s alarm system had gone off...
'Root-fix' beat goes at 2016 Block Party and Picnic for Peace
Published: September 30, 2016
When the Block Party and Picnic for Peace started in 2006, it was a three-hour event with modest attendance. Now the event annually attracts approximately 7,000-9,000 people, said event founder Antonio Parkinson, the District 98 state representative...
Q&A: Col. James Kirkwood, Old Allen Station
Published: September 23, 2016
Memphis Police Department Col. James Kirkwood of the Old Allen Station has worked in law enforcement since 1985. He’s a familiar figure in Frayser, where he is known as a unifier...
Voter registration as a catalyst for change
Published: September 8, 2016
Michael Sellers entered the Kroger lobby at 2632 Frayser Blvd. and then decided to do something he’d never done before – register to vote....
Coaching Boys into Men
Published: August 27, 2016
The influential role of coaches and mentors is the bedrock for a national program –Coaching Boys into Men – designed to help athletes transform their lives....
Boxing academy trains 'champions for life'
Published: August 25, 2016
MC Williams is a used-to-be “hothead” who credits The Restoration House Champions for Life Boxing Academy in Frayser with helping him learn discipline and self-control...
Q&A: I Dream Boutique
Published: August 26, 2016
Since April, Okiema Johnson has operated I Dream Boutique at 2094 Frayser Blvd, #102. She’s already thinking about the future and the impact that she wants her business to have on the community...
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Embraced by the community, Frayser Grafixs and Tees owners are hugging back
Published: August 20, 2016
Alan Kuntz and Marie Goble, co-owners of Frayser Grafixs and Tees, have based their business from several locations over the last 10 years but in Frayser they feel a special connection....
Published: August 20, 2016
Alan Kuntz and Marie Goble, co-owners of Frayser Grafixs and Tees, have based their business from several locations over the last 10 years but in Frayser they feel a special connection....
Playback Memphis adds another stage for kinship, hope in Frayser
Published: August 18, 2016
Will Golden, a participant in the ex-offender re-entry program Lifeline to Success, once harbored negative thoughts about law enforcement based upon some negative experiences. Playback Memphis, a local theatre company, helped him let go...
Living Grace shows its heart for young people
Published: August 11, 2016
Living Grace, Inc. has wrapped its non-profit arms around five Frayser-area schools, hoping to make the school year a little easier for students dealing with homelessness...
Mothers of Motivation: an outlet for single mothers
Published: August 5, 2016
As a single mother, Sharon Fields shepherded three sons into adulthood and learned the value of having someone to help her talk through issues of concern. She drew upon that experience in starting Mothers of Motivation (MOM)...
Ken Moody on point as Strickland team's message-bearer
Published: July 28, 2016
The message: Mayor Jim Strickland and his administration are dedicated to the proposition that the Memphis community and local government should be on one accord...
AVGP Media School prepares Frayser youth for multimedia world
Published: July 23, 2016
With media, entertainment and music capturing the attention of so many youth, the Audio, Video, Graphics and Print (AVGP) Media School is an example of going with the flow while directing the course....
App and hotline paired to help curve youth violence, poverty
Published July 22, 2016
Brilann “Breez’e” Coleman, an entertainer/entrepreneur who resides in Frayser, has developed the Love Watch Mobile App that puts access to a plethora of community resources at the fingertips of Memphis-area youth...
Fighting crime with faith
Published: July 21, 2016
Imagine a circle of unity linking police and the faith community and providing a force of protection for Frayser residents now too often burdened with the weight of crime concerns....
Britney Burse built for impact at Ed Rice
Published: July 15, 2016
Determined to make a lasting impact, Britney Burse – a former physical education/lifetime wellness teacher – is four-plus weeks into her new role as assistant director of the Ed Rice Community Center. The New Tri-State Defender caught up with Burse to discuss how she plans to go about doing that, why she thinks the center is an important part of Frayser and more....
Black Lives Matter protest highlights injustice, encourages unity and action
Published: July 9, 2016
“Black lives matter!”
“I got my hands above my head. Please, don’t shoot me dead!”
“No justice, no peace! No racist police!”
Justice-seeking protesters at a Black Lives Matter rally made those chants part of the soundtrack Friday evening (July 8).
The Official Black Lives Matter Memphis Chapter hosted the gathering at 867 South Parkway East, near St. Andrew AME Church. It was punctuated by a demand for justice for African Americans who have been killed in deadly – and highly suspicious – encounters with police. Alton Sterling was killed during just such a scenario in Baton Rouge, La. on Tuesday and Friday’s crowd had him and his fate in mind...
Operation Re-start sows fresh start seeds
Published: July 9, 2016
Martavius Jones, a junior at MLK College Preparatory School in Frayser, is experiencing a surge of personal responsibility and academic motivation powered by a summer employment program called Operation Re-Start....
State Rep. Antonio Parkinson: 'We have to get back to being a community.'
Published: July 5, 2016
Causing collective change and restoring community members’ ties to each other seemed to be at the forefront of state Rep. Antonio Parkinson’s mind...
Frayser Experience shared at national forum to ward off youth violence
Published: June 30, 2016
Imagine getting the opportunity to speak at a national forum about youth working to combat crime. For 19-year-old Frayser native Wanya' Smith, this became a reality...
The Fight Against Blight
Published: June 24, 2016
Steve Barlow and his partners at Neighborhood Preservation, Inc. aim to step in “when the government can’t or the private sector won’t” deal with blight....
Frayser Athletic League shoots to give youth hope, alternatives to violence
Published: June 17, 2016
Education, training, change and hope! These are the values that a group of local pastors hope to instill in the youth that will participate in the newly formed Frayser Athletic League....
A pitch for 'tough conversations'
Published: June 16, 2016
“We are going to have to have a big girl, big boy conversation about our schools in Frayser and Raleigh,” Stephanie Love, District III Shelby County Schools board commissioner told the Frayser Exchange Club last week (June 9)...
Full Circle
Published: June 10, 2016
Chasity Banks has a full-circle view of the Leadership Empowerment Center, a Frayser-based non-profit that offers a variety of programs and activities to help youth in the community become productive leaders and citizens....
'Unsung Hero' keeps Frayser beautiful
Published: June 9, 2016
The beauty of Frayser is etched in the mind of longtime resident Christine Grandberry....
'God hears the cries of children': Hagar Center to provide guidance, support to teen moms
Published: May 27, 2016
When Erma Simpson wanted to launch a center to support and teach teen mothers, she immediately thought of Hagar, the Biblical figure in The Book of Genesis. After giving birth to Abraham’s out-of-wedlock son Ishmael, Hagar fears she and her child won’t last long in the wilderness — until God reassures her that she and her child haven’t been forsaken...
Summer Breez'e: Teen hip-hop artist talks music, fashion and being authentic.
Published: May 26, 2016
At the age of 15, Brilann Coleman already has a range of different experiences as an entertainer.
With the stage name “Breez’e” (pronounced Breeze E), Coleman is a songwriter, rapper, singer and actress....
Health Challenge to offer youth the 'Total Package'
Published: May 25, 2016
Frayser students will soon be able to get some of their nutrition, medical and fitness needs addressed through a new health challenge sponsored by the Frayser Neighborhood Council....
Rev. Charlie Caswell's Road
Published: May 20, 2016
As someone who grew up in poverty in the Dixie Homes Projects, the Rev. Charlie Caswell knows what it’s like to grow up with a lack of resources and face going down the wrong path.
Thanks to mentors and taking advantage of opportunities, he’s been able to build off of his experiences and to become an active member of the community he loves – Frayser....
Published: May 20, 2016
As someone who grew up in poverty in the Dixie Homes Projects, the Rev. Charlie Caswell knows what it’s like to grow up with a lack of resources and face going down the wrong path.
Thanks to mentors and taking advantage of opportunities, he’s been able to build off of his experiences and to become an active member of the community he loves – Frayser....
Spike Lee inspires young entrepreneur to 'go for it'
Published: March 3, 2016
If you put director, producer and actor Spike Lee in a packed venue full of people anxious to hear what he has to say, you might expect him to be his usual blunt, unfiltered self. What you might not expect is for Lee’s attention to be captured by a middle-school entrepreneur with a question about activists....
Leadership Memphis Seeks Funds to Help Students Explore College Options
Published: Feb. 25, 2016
Kingsbury High School senior Mia Sutton admits that she wasn’t aware of all of the options that Memphis offered when she first started thinking about college.....
Published: Feb. 25, 2016
Kingsbury High School senior Mia Sutton admits that she wasn’t aware of all of the options that Memphis offered when she first started thinking about college.....
Timberlake Family Life Center Looks to build on its support of pregnant teens
Published: Feb. 4, 2016
As the daughter of a teenage mother and as a social worker that spent several years working with pregnant teenagers and teen mothers, Felecia H. Walker knows the complications that a teenage pregnancy can bring and she has a good feel for the level of needed support...
Published: Feb. 4, 2016
As the daughter of a teenage mother and as a social worker that spent several years working with pregnant teenagers and teen mothers, Felecia H. Walker knows the complications that a teenage pregnancy can bring and she has a good feel for the level of needed support...
When black is white and vice versa
Published: Dec. 23, 2015
“Passing” – living as a part of one race despite being born into another – is often full of complexity and consequences, so much so that author and Stanford history professor Dr. Allyson Hobbs calls it a type of “exile..."
Published: Dec. 23, 2015
“Passing” – living as a part of one race despite being born into another – is often full of complexity and consequences, so much so that author and Stanford history professor Dr. Allyson Hobbs calls it a type of “exile..."
Lyfe is Dope
Published: Nov. 19, 2015
Memphis will have access to some “dope” national and local talent just in time for Thanksgiving, thanks to two musical Memphis natives....
Published: Nov. 19, 2015
Memphis will have access to some “dope” national and local talent just in time for Thanksgiving, thanks to two musical Memphis natives....
Want to learn about science? Get on the bus!
Published: Nov. 19, 2015
As a fifth-grade teacher, Tarja Mack has learned that if you want kids to get excited about science, it helps to get out of the classroom and get on the bus – as in a retrofitted MATA bus that The LeMoyne-Owen College has acquired and transformed into “Science on Wheels” – Memphis’ first-ever roving science education lab....
Published: Nov. 19, 2015
As a fifth-grade teacher, Tarja Mack has learned that if you want kids to get excited about science, it helps to get out of the classroom and get on the bus – as in a retrofitted MATA bus that The LeMoyne-Owen College has acquired and transformed into “Science on Wheels” – Memphis’ first-ever roving science education lab....
How deep are social media's activism roots?
Published: Nov. 12, 2015
Never underestimate the power of an issue or opportunity with a strong social media presence behind it, especially when it comes to African Americans...
Published: Nov. 12, 2015
Never underestimate the power of an issue or opportunity with a strong social media presence behind it, especially when it comes to African Americans...
Backstage: Demetria McKinney keeps it '100'
Published: Nov. 6, 2015
Actress/singer Demetria McKinney isn’t afraid to keep it ‘100.’ Whether it’s discussing her entertainment career, what’s next for her or how she manages to balance her professional and personal lives, she is open and honest..
Published: Nov. 6, 2015
Actress/singer Demetria McKinney isn’t afraid to keep it ‘100.’ Whether it’s discussing her entertainment career, what’s next for her or how she manages to balance her professional and personal lives, she is open and honest..
HIV/AIDS-challenge and opportunity to keep the faith
Published: Oct. 9, 2015
African Americans made up 86 percent of people living with HIV/AIDS in Shelby County as of December 2013. So says the Shelby County Health Department’s Epidemiology Program’s HIV Disease and STD Annual Surveillance Summary for that year...
JIFF offers wayward youth a second chance, different path
Published: Oct. 8, 2015
Ask 15-year-old Marquarious to paint a picture of a “terrible life” and he would fill it with images that include breaking into homes and cars and stealing from stores. The description is the world he lived in before he encountered the program called JIFF – Juvenile Intervention and Faith-Based Follow-up...
Black Lives Matter examined
Published: Oct. 8, 2015
Depending on whom you ask, the Black Lives Matter movement can be perceived as a love group, hate group or a group that’s not broad enough...
Courthouse renaming ceremony honors Judge D'Army Bailey
Published: September 26, 2015
The Downtown building formerly known as the Shelby County Civil Courthouse now is the Judge D’Army Bailey Courthouse – renamed to honor the late judge, attorney, author, civil rights activist and a founder of the National Civil Rights Museum....
Published: September 26, 2015
The Downtown building formerly known as the Shelby County Civil Courthouse now is the Judge D’Army Bailey Courthouse – renamed to honor the late judge, attorney, author, civil rights activist and a founder of the National Civil Rights Museum....
Memphis Grassroots Coalition debuts on 31st day after Darrius Stewart's death
Published: August 17, 2015
Monday (Aug. 17) made it 31 days since the death of Darrius Stewart, the 19 year old who was shot and killed by a Memphis police officer in the aftermath of a traffic stop in Hickory Hill. With that in mind, a coalition of local organizations and clergy members dubbed the Memphis Grassroots Coalition gathered in front of City Hall to ask for justice and updates regarding Stewart’s death...
Published: August 17, 2015
Monday (Aug. 17) made it 31 days since the death of Darrius Stewart, the 19 year old who was shot and killed by a Memphis police officer in the aftermath of a traffic stop in Hickory Hill. With that in mind, a coalition of local organizations and clergy members dubbed the Memphis Grassroots Coalition gathered in front of City Hall to ask for justice and updates regarding Stewart’s death...
Fundraiser for a funeral unleashes wave of generosity
Published: August 14, 2015
Lynn Readus battled through various health issues long enough to see her son, Dellarontay Readus, reach the pinnacle of high school success. Last spring, he was valedictorian at Melrose High School and this fall, he starts classes at Stanford University...
Published: August 14, 2015
Lynn Readus battled through various health issues long enough to see her son, Dellarontay Readus, reach the pinnacle of high school success. Last spring, he was valedictorian at Melrose High School and this fall, he starts classes at Stanford University...
Memphis' Black Lives Matter Movement aims to raise awareness, push for change
Published: August 13, 2015
The national Black Lives Matter movement – according to its website – is a “call to action and a response to the virulent anti-Black racism that permeates our society.” It’s aimed – in part – at “broadening the conversation around state violence to include all of the ways in which Black people are intentionally left powerless at the hands of the state....”
Published: August 13, 2015
The national Black Lives Matter movement – according to its website – is a “call to action and a response to the virulent anti-Black racism that permeates our society.” It’s aimed – in part – at “broadening the conversation around state violence to include all of the ways in which Black people are intentionally left powerless at the hands of the state....”
The man behind badge 5333 thanked for service
Published: August 7, 2015
On the day before what would’ve been Officer Sean Bolton’s 34th birthday, thoughts shared at his funeral congealed to reflect a man of service....
Published: August 7, 2015
On the day before what would’ve been Officer Sean Bolton’s 34th birthday, thoughts shared at his funeral congealed to reflect a man of service....
New app taps social media to help ease the college search process
Published: August 7, 2015
Given the volume and variety of colleges and universities in the U.S. and the ever-growing number of social media sites, it’s no wonder some are daunted by the college research process. MyCollegeSTREAM is designed to meet that challenge.....
Published: August 7, 2015
Given the volume and variety of colleges and universities in the U.S. and the ever-growing number of social media sites, it’s no wonder some are daunted by the college research process. MyCollegeSTREAM is designed to meet that challenge.....
News Update: Council delays CLERB revamp vote until November
Published: August 4, 2015
The Memphis City Council voted on Tuesday to delay until November the vote on a proposed amended ordinance to revamp and strengthen the Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB).
Published: August 4, 2015
The Memphis City Council voted on Tuesday to delay until November the vote on a proposed amended ordinance to revamp and strengthen the Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB).
Proposed changes to Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board net accord
Published: August 4, 2015
By the end of Monday’s Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) meeting, parties involved were satisfied with the proposed amendments to the CLERB ordinance that the Memphis City Council is set to vote on Tuesday (Aug. 4)..
Published: August 4, 2015
By the end of Monday’s Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) meeting, parties involved were satisfied with the proposed amendments to the CLERB ordinance that the Memphis City Council is set to vote on Tuesday (Aug. 4)..
Progress cited on revamping Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board
Published: July 30, 2015
A final proposal for a revamped Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) to put before the City Council on Aug. 4 seems much more of a likelihood after a meeting Wednesday at City Hall....
Published: July 30, 2015
A final proposal for a revamped Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) to put before the City Council on Aug. 4 seems much more of a likelihood after a meeting Wednesday at City Hall....
Darrius Stewart's best friend: 'He wasn't supposed to die like this'
Published: July 22, 2015
Minutes before Darrius Stewart’s encounter with the Memphis Police Department officer who fatally shot him last Friday night (July 17), he had been in the car with his best friend, Rickey Taylor, who was still “messed” up about it all during a vigil in Hickory Hill Tuesday evening...
Published: July 22, 2015
Minutes before Darrius Stewart’s encounter with the Memphis Police Department officer who fatally shot him last Friday night (July 17), he had been in the car with his best friend, Rickey Taylor, who was still “messed” up about it all during a vigil in Hickory Hill Tuesday evening...
Dedicated to Making a Difference: Vickie Robertson's journey of impact with the DRED Foundation
Published: July 9, 2015
On Dec. 14, 1987, West Memphis, Ark. was hit by a tornado that killed six people, caused $35 million in damage, destroyed 146 homes, and damaged or destroyed 200 apartments...
'Donald' examines effects of gender perception
Published: June 5, 2015
From an early age, Donald (Jesse Grayson) was subject to other people’s obvious misconceptions about his gender. Because of his “too pretty to be a boy” appearance, his tendency to prefer the company of girls over boys, and his preference for activities - such as singing over football - some considered him to be effeminate...
Published: June 5, 2015
From an early age, Donald (Jesse Grayson) was subject to other people’s obvious misconceptions about his gender. Because of his “too pretty to be a boy” appearance, his tendency to prefer the company of girls over boys, and his preference for activities - such as singing over football - some considered him to be effeminate...
Exploring hip-hop culture: 'pedagogy, community action and identity
Published: May 28, 2015
From being associated with criminality to being blamed for the decline of Christianity in America, hip-hop has gotten a bad rap. The desire to get at the truth of the genre was in full effect recently at Hattiloo Theatre...
From Hoop Dreams to 'Positive Vibes Only'
Published: May 22, 2015
For two friends who bonded over basketball, a new brand called “Positive Vibes Only” is a way to salute the late running buddy whose memory is part of the duo’s mission to spread positive, inspiring messages...
Published: May 22, 2015
For two friends who bonded over basketball, a new brand called “Positive Vibes Only” is a way to salute the late running buddy whose memory is part of the duo’s mission to spread positive, inspiring messages...
Dr. Rosalind Martin: excellence without excuses
Published: April 30, 2015
Imagine being a no-nonsense, dedicated principal faced with the challenge of transforming a failing school. To some, this may be no more than the premise of the 1989 film “Lean on Me,” in which actor Morgan Freeman portrayed New Jersey Principal Joe Clark...
Published: April 30, 2015
Imagine being a no-nonsense, dedicated principal faced with the challenge of transforming a failing school. To some, this may be no more than the premise of the 1989 film “Lean on Me,” in which actor Morgan Freeman portrayed New Jersey Principal Joe Clark...
A triumph of talent: an evening with Alfre Woodard
Published: April 3, 2015
“I live my life in defense of justice, in support of the common good and in pursuit of perfectly rendered characters,” renowned actress Alfre Woodard told a Memphis audience Wednesday night...
Break It Down Towing's Tony Anderson has some break it down advice for Memphis
Published: March 13, 2015
Antonio “Tony” Anderson developed a passion for the towing business at an early age, with his first exposure coming as a teenager...
Published: March 13, 2015
Antonio “Tony” Anderson developed a passion for the towing business at an early age, with his first exposure coming as a teenager...
Stand-your-ground panel discussion probes #BlackLivesMatter and more
Published: Feb. 26, 2015
In Memphis and various parts of the country, many of the 2015 African American History Month observances have – in myriad forms – dealt with issues associated with the deaths of unarmed African Americans at the hands of police. So it was Tuesday at the University Center on the campus of the University of Memphis....
A meeting, a movement, and a matter of movement
Published: Feb. 19, 2015
Two mothers – both with sons killed under clouds of suspicion – greeted each other in a gathering room of Unity Christian Church in Memphis’ Whitehaven community. One was from Florida and the other from Arkansas and neither woman was prepared for the tragedy that claimed the life of her child...
Published: Feb. 19, 2015
Two mothers – both with sons killed under clouds of suspicion – greeted each other in a gathering room of Unity Christian Church in Memphis’ Whitehaven community. One was from Florida and the other from Arkansas and neither woman was prepared for the tragedy that claimed the life of her child...
Frank D. Robinson, Jr. & Art Therapy
Published: Feb. 6, 2015
With this award-winning piece titled “Trust Your Struggle,” local artist Frank D. Robinson Jr. sought to address personal pain, diabetes and mental illnesses. It is part of a series called “The Year of Healing..."
Published: Feb. 6, 2015
With this award-winning piece titled “Trust Your Struggle,” local artist Frank D. Robinson Jr. sought to address personal pain, diabetes and mental illnesses. It is part of a series called “The Year of Healing..."
Getting to know 'Sir Walt'
Published: Jan. 31, 2015
Like so many of us, Walter “Sir Walt” Andrade felt a connection to the tragic death of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin in 2012. So the Memphis artist took brush in hand and painted a picture of Martin in a hoodie with a bloody teardrop running down his face...
Published: Jan. 31, 2015
Like so many of us, Walter “Sir Walt” Andrade felt a connection to the tragic death of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin in 2012. So the Memphis artist took brush in hand and painted a picture of Martin in a hoodie with a bloody teardrop running down his face...
'Be A doer' lesson rings out at Be The Dream Celebration
Published: Jan. 22, 2015
Playwright Irma Johnson and her mother, Elizabeth Dunbar, settled into their balcony seats at historic Mason Temple careful to make sure that the third member of their traveling party had an ample view of the event dubbed the Be the Dream Commemorative Celebration...
Published: Jan. 22, 2015
Playwright Irma Johnson and her mother, Elizabeth Dunbar, settled into their balcony seats at historic Mason Temple careful to make sure that the third member of their traveling party had an ample view of the event dubbed the Be the Dream Commemorative Celebration...
'Don't Be Comfortable With Young Lives Being Lost'
Published: Jan. 15, 2015
The crowd – young, old and in between – packed Unity Christian Church in Whitehaven for the Heal the Hood Foundation’s Citywide Anti-Violence Youth Symposium featuring Sybrina Fulton, the mother of slain Florida teenager Trayvon Martin, whose name is now known throughout the nation...
Published: Jan. 15, 2015
The crowd – young, old and in between – packed Unity Christian Church in Whitehaven for the Heal the Hood Foundation’s Citywide Anti-Violence Youth Symposium featuring Sybrina Fulton, the mother of slain Florida teenager Trayvon Martin, whose name is now known throughout the nation...
Benefit concert showcases stop-the-violence-outreach
Published: Jan.8, 2014
Actor/singer/songwriter/dancer Nathan Davis Jr. is working on a Nick Cannon project for Nickelodeon while plugging away on his debut CD and writing songs for other artists.With that busy schedule, why was he in Memphis on Jan. 2? And why is vowing to come back for more of the same? ....
Published: Jan.8, 2014
Actor/singer/songwriter/dancer Nathan Davis Jr. is working on a Nick Cannon project for Nickelodeon while plugging away on his debut CD and writing songs for other artists.With that busy schedule, why was he in Memphis on Jan. 2? And why is vowing to come back for more of the same? ....
Students weigh impact of session with Atty. Gen. Eric Holder
Published: Dec. 19, 2014
With recent events such as the lack of indictments of the police officers responsible for the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner, imagine being a college student able to participate in a roundtable discussion with the attorney general of the United States...
For Memphis United, Holder Visit is a High-Profile Stage for On-going Concerns
Published: December 10, 2014
For Memphis United, Holder Visit is a High-Profile Stage for On-going Concerns
Published: December 10, 2014
Men Who Care
Published: Nov. 28, 2014
Playwright Priest Tyaire Treats Memphis to 'Mrs. Independent'
Published: Nov. 15, 2014
The importance of voting and the responsibility of African-American women
Published: Nov. 3, 2014
What's a 'healthy church fair' and why does it keep happening?
Published: Oct. 25, 2014
Staci Franklin: From Diagnosis to Mission
Published: Oct. 25
Sweetie Pie's 'Ms. Robbie' delivers the personal touch
Published: Oct.7, 2014
Are dysfunctional relationships a media invention or state of crisis?
Published: Sept. 29, 2014
Much more than a 'Food Network Star Finalist'
Published: July 31, 2014
Memphis Playwright Puts a Twist on the 'Prodigal Son' Story
Published: July 17, 2014
What's John Leake Doing in Russia?
Published: The week of July 10-16
Lawyers of Color 2014 Hot List has a Memphis element
Published: July 9, 2014
Focus and hard Work Make Memphis Athlete a Junior- Sized Olympian
Published: July 9, 2014
Fullview Missionary Baptist Church is on Fire!
Published: The week of July 3-9
Velma Lois Jones-serving with a purpose
Published: June 14, 2014
Memphis Links, Inc. and Girls, Inc. partner to 'Get Out the Vote'
Published:June 6, 2014
UCAN Memphis' president earns Surviving in Silence Award
Published: May 24, 2014
Memphis fast-food workers determined to keep pushing for higher wages, union rights
Published: May 17, 2014
' Twin brothers' mural a picture of 'Collaboration' for Methodist South
Published: May 15, 2014
You Have to get Back to your roots'
Published: April 26, 2014
Have Soul, will travel!
Published: April 10, 2014
From Mammy to Michelle Obama: The Evolution of the Perception of African American Women
Published: March 13, 2014
The Education before the Education
Published: March 6, 2014
An Evening with Stephen A. Smith
Published: February 15, 2014
The legacy of Catherine Faye Howell
Published: February 6, 2014
In 2014, Is it Important to See and Discuss Race?
Published: January 20, 2014
Love Packing Optimist Still Serving Youth at 100
Published: Nov. 14, 2013
Beautician's Association for 2013 Trade Show and Convention
Published: October 23, 2013
Health Fair a "principle" matter for Memphis Kwanzaa International
Published: October 8, 2013
From my Reporting class:
The Cooper- Young Festival: “Hip-Storic” Area Festival Brings the Community Together
Beat Story #1- “We are not all Mexicans”: Panel Discussion Examines Stereotypes
Former U of M Educator Enlightens Students about Branding and Networking
Beat Story # 2- Family picnic attracts a positive 'mob'
All the World's a Stage: Playwrights Share Experiences, Offer Insights and More
"Acting White", "Blackish" and "Black Enough": Examining the perception of black racial identity
From my Media Writing Class:
Tigers on Top: Developing Your Personal Brand, Networking, and what the University of Memphis is doing to help you Succeed
Frosh Files
Dr. Umar-Abdullah Johnson's Relationship Discussion
Young Professionals Panel
" How to Think Like An Entrepreneur" workshop articles
Advance Article:
Workshop Article
Life After Jail: Memphis wives of formerly incarcerated men share stories of support
Published: June 1, 2016
Published: June 1, 2016
From the Memphis Mirror
Looking Forward: Family Members Think Ahead for Loved Ones with Special Needs
Published April 21, 2016
When Memphian Carol Greenwald learned her son Keith had Down syndrome, she was shocked...
Looking Forward: Family Members Think Ahead for Loved Ones with Special Needs
Published April 21, 2016
When Memphian Carol Greenwald learned her son Keith had Down syndrome, she was shocked...
