Hub City Now

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Emmy award-winning TV news journalist Shayla Michelle Reaves, nearly a week before her Sept. 30 book signing in Jackson, Tennessee. Floral Cakes, 210 East Lafayette Street, in Jackson, Tennessee, will host Reaves' book signing event from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023. This event is FREE. You can purchase your copy or copies of “Echo in the Distance“, get them autographed, take pictures and enjoy light refreshments. Reaves spoke about her new book “Echo in the Distance” and the journey she took from enjoying creative writing as a child to winning a writing competition as a freshman in college to publishing her first book. Sixty years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. gave his iconic "I Have A Dream" speech Wednesday, Aug. 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. Forty years later, Northwestern University freshman Shayla Michelle Reaves, entered the Written Expression Competition, which was held in honor of Dr. King. Shayla the competition with “Do You Hear the Echo in the Distance,” first performing the piece during the university’s Martin Luther King Jr. program before an audience which included keynote speaker Dr. Cornel West. Dr. West was so impressed that he asked Shayla if he could use the line “People are people, not color-coated crimes” in his future speeches. Twenty years later, Emmy-award-winning TV news journalist Shayla Michelle Reaves turned that piece, which wouldn’t remain silent, into a children’s book named “Echo in the Distance”, written by Shayla Michelle Reaves and illustrated by Kprecia Ambers. “Echo in the Distance” written by Shayla Michelle and illustrated by Kprecia Ambers, is a moving tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream shared from the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963. Millions watched as the civil rights leader delivered his hope for the future, his dream for what America could be. Decades later, the iconic “I Have A Dream” speech has continued to transcend time. “Echo in the Distance” reflects on the speech, the history that followed and serves as a reminder that each individual can play a role in realizing the dream first shared in 1963. In the words of author Shayla Michelle, “It’s not too late. Dreams can come true. It starts with you.” Learn more about…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Mary Ross, Director of Sales, Catering and Marketing at Doubletree by Hilton Jackson and who is a member of the West Tennessee Veterans Coalition. Ross spoke about what the West Tennessee Veterans Coalition does, who it helps and about three upcoming events the coalition will be holding soon. The first event is the 2nd annual "Salute Our Veterans" Military Ball, with guest speaker Congressman Mark Green, Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Madison Downs, 4506 US-45 Bypass, in Jackson, Tennessee. All proceeds benefit the 2024 Veterans in Crisis Grant Fund. For more information or to purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit 423-341-3330, wtnvetscoalition@gmail.com or Facebook.com/WTNVeteransCoalition. The 10th Annual “Celebrating Our Veterans” Program will be held Friday, November 10, 2023, at Englewood Baptist Church, 2239 N. Highland Avenue, in Jackson, Tennessee, 38305. The keynote speaker will be Roy Cash, the grandson of Johnny Cash. The event is free to attendees. The 8th annual Downtown Veterans Day Parade will be held in downtown Jackson beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 11, 2023, Veterans Day, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. 400 South Highland Avenue, Jackson, Tennessee. Parade line up will be at the center. Churches throughout Jackson and West Tennessee are invited to ring their bells to acknowledge the veterans. Anyone wishing to ride, march, or walk in the parade is urged to pre-register by phoning (423) 341-3330. Military veterans from all eras are encouraged to participate. There is no entry fee for the parade participants. For more information about the West Tennessee Veterans Coalition, visit https://www.facebook.com/WTNVeteransCoalition.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Wendy Trice Martin, president of the Society for African American Cultural Awareness (SAACA) and Jennifer Brou, SAACA's media specialist. Trice Martin and Brou spoke about the organizations numerous events and projects: Juneteenth Freedom Day Festival, Harlem Nights Fund Raiser, Miss Jackson Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, Kwanzaa and the 33rd Annual African Street Festival. The African Street Festival, will be held Labor Day Weekend (Friday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, September 3) at T.R. White Sportsplex, 304 North Hays Avenue, in Jackson, Tenn. There will be live entertainment featuring African dance and drummers, R&B, Neo-Soul, Reggae, Blues and Gospel music. There will also be artists, African Drum classes, children’s hut and activities, health screenings, food and merchandise vendors and much, much more!!! For general information: 731-267-3212. For vendor information: 731-616-0814. For more information about the festival and SAACA, visit www.saaca.com and SAACA's official Facebook page, The Society for African American Cultural Awareness.

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the host interviews Margaret Taylor, executive director of A Step Ahead West Tennessee. Taylor spoke about the history of the non-profit organization, how it operates and its goals, community outreach and more. Taylor also spoke about the organization's fundraiser, the Vintage Ball, which will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the The Barn at Snider Farms, located at 1998 Denmark Jackson Road, in Denmark, Tenn. This is an event for women to come together and wear vintage attire. The event will feature a silent auction, door prizes and hors d'oeuvres. RSVP by calling (731) 695-9966 or buy tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/vintage-ball-tickets-376830629557. Tickets are $50 and sponsorships are available. A Step Ahead West Tennessee aims to prevent teen and unintended pregnancies by providing FREE long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), the most effective reversible methods of birth control, to women in West Tennessee. Learn more at www.asafwesttn.org.

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the host interviews the three leading actresses in The Ned's upcoming production of "Dreamgirls": Ebony Taylor (who is portraying Effie), Lonita McClellan-Dickerson (who is portraying Deena), and Shamaiya Flagg (who is portraying Lorrel). This production of Dreamgirls is based off the book and lyrics by Tom Eyen, music by Henry Krieger, the original Broadway Production directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett and orchestrations by Harold Wheeler. Dreamgirls is the first show in The Ned’s 2024-2025 season. Dreamgirls is directed by Monola Patterson, choreographed by Mona Lisa Lanier, and the music is directed by Dr. James Henning and Lewis Thompson, with Dr. Howard Ramsby consulting. Show dates and times are: Thursday, August 17 @ 7:00 p.m., Friday, August 18 @ 7:00 p.m., Saturday, August 19 @ 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 24 @ 7:00 p.m,, Friday, August 25 @ 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, August 26 @ 2:00 p.m. Dreamgirls is a dynamic and thrilling musical that tells the story of a young girl group's rise to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. With electrifying performances, soulful music, and a captivating story, Dreamgirls is a must-see for anyone who loves musicals and the sounds of Motown. Get ready to be transported back in time and experience the heart and soul of the era that changed music forever. The cast features over 30 Jackson locals who bring to life the various roles in the story, including the iconic Dreams – the trio inspired by the Supremes and originally portrayed on Broadway by Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jennife1r Holliday and Loretta Devine and in the film by Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson, and Anika Noni Rose. Adding to the evening is the 14-member orchestra that Dr. Henning will conduct. From performances to music, you don’t want to miss this show! Taylor, McClellan-Dickerson and Flagg spoke about the musical, their past performances, why they tried out for Dreamgirls, what other part they would have liked to played, why this musical is important for the women who came before, present women and future women and more. They also gave a sneak peak at their amazing singing power!

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews participants of the Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce’s Follow Me into Business program. Tyrone begins the show interviewing JMCAACC Executive Director Don A. McCorry about the JMCAACC, its history, who it serves and about its programs, especially its Follow Me into Business program. Participants (their name, their age and the school they attend) interviewed in this episode include: Kenyon Manning, 17, Liberty Tech; Dana Jones, 15, Madison Academic; A’dereon Blalark, 13, North Parkway; Ashton Hart, 15, Madison Academic; Bray’lon Klyce, 14, Early-College High, and tony Billingsley, III, 13, West Bemis. JMCAACC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a three-fold mission: The Growth and Development of Member Businesses, Youth Entrepreneurial Development and Community and Economic Development in West Tennessee and particularly in Jackson Madison County. According to the organization’s website: “As the resource for African American business owners, partnerships and corporations in Rural West Tennessee, our objective is to help new and existing businesses reach their potential by using its resources to connect them with major corporations, community leaders, and other business owners so that they learn, grow and network for greater economic development and success. The strength of the businesses determines the strength of our communities and families. Our watchword is focus.” The organization’s website also said: “In keeping with that mission, the organization highlights outstanding contemporary and historical business owners through our Annual Jewel Awards Banquet. We train and educate young people, ages 12-18, for success in business (and in life) through our Follow Me Into Business® youth workforce development program that offers soft skills training, shadowing, mentoring and internships or paid summer jobs. As part of the eight-week summer program, we also offer a tour of government offices and provide community service opportunities. We provide support for business owners with workshops and our latest effort is a new small business conference, the West Tennessee Business Showcase and Economic Development Conference.” It also offers a morning of golf in fun with its Follow Me Celebrity Golf Classic held the second Tuesday in September. For more information about JMCAACC, its programs, how to join and how to donate, visit jmcaacc.org.

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the host speaks with Liliana Tschanett, Public Affairs Specialist, Field Operations Center – East, Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R), U.S. Small Business Administration and Van Wylie, Small Business Development Centers Director for TN Western Region. Wylie spoke about how he got involved with the SBDC, what it does in the community and who it helps. Tschanett and Wylie spoke about the upcoming events ( a webinar and a business recovery fair, that SBA and SBDC will present together. The two events will highlight the financial assistance available from the SBA and other federal, state and local agencies, plus free classes and assistance offered through the TSBDC. The webinar, Tuesday, June 27, at 11 a.m. CDT/12 noon EDT, will offer information on SBA’s working capital loans, technical and counseling services by the TSBDC. Business owners can sign up for the webinar in English or Spanish at the TSBDC website: www.tsbdc.org. The business recovery fair, on Wednesday, June 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. CDT, will be held at the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Dyersburg State Community College, 3149 Highway 51 South in Covington, TN. Local, state, and federal agencies will be on-site to answer questions and provide one-on-one assistance. Small businesses and private non-profit organizations in the following counties are encouraged to attend: Bedford, Cannon, Chester, Clay, Coffee, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, DeKalb, Fayette, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Hickman, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lewis, Macon, Madison, Marshall, Maury, McNairy, Perry, Rutherford, Shelby, Smith, Sumner, Tipton, Trousdale, Warren, Wayne, Williamson and Wilson in Tennessee; Lauderdale, in Alabama; Crittenden and Mississippi in Arkansas; Allen and Monroe in Kentucky; and Alcorn, Benton, Tippah and Tishomingo in Mississippi. Applicants may apply online via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/ under SBA declaration # 17867. Disaster loan information and forms may be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services), or by sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan application forms can be downloaded from the SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. The deadline to return an SBA application for financial losses (Economic Injury Disaster Loan) is Jan. 8, 2024.

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the hosts interviews: Liliana Tschanett, Public Affairs Specialist, Field Operations Center – East, Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R), U.S. Small Business Administration. Tschanett was on the show to talk about disaster assistance offered by SBA in Tennessee in your area after the natural disaster that occurred from March 31 – April 1, 2023. The disaster declaration covers Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties in Tennessee, which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs): Bedford, Chester, Clay, Coffee, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, DeKalb, Fayette, Henderson, Hickman, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Madison, Marshall, Maury, Perry, Shelby, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, Warren, Williamson and Wilson in Tennessee; Lauderdale, in Alabama; Crittenden and Mississippi in Arkansas; Allen and Monroe in Kentucky; and Alcorn, Benton, Tippah and Tishomingo in Mississippi. What’s available: Only Primary Counties, including Mobile in the declaration can apply for the following loans with SBA: 1. Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible. Max. loan 2 million dollars. 2. Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. Residents that sustained physical damages need to register with FEMA first. Max. loan $200,000 for homeowners (primary residence) & $40,000 for personal property including renters. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage was June 6, 2023, but late applications are being accepted until Thursday, June 22,2023, in case you were unaware of the original deadline or the information about the loan. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. All businesses and private non-profit organizations qualifying in primary counties (including Tipton and Haywood) and contiguous counties (including Shelby (Memphis), Lauderdale and Fayette) may apply with SBA for EIDL without any proof of physical damages. 1. Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives,…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.," the host interviewed Liliana Tschanett, Public Affairs Specialist, Field Operations Center - East Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R), U.S. Small Business Administration, and Kim Keblish, Media Relations Specialist | Office of External Affairs. The pair were on the show to talk about disaster assistance offered by SBA in Tennessee in your area after the natural disaster that occurred from March 31 – April 1, 2023. The disaster declaration covers Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties in Tennessee, which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs): Bedford, Chester, Clay, Coffee, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, DeKalb, Fayette, Henderson, Hickman, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Madison, Marshall, Maury, Perry, Shelby, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, Warren, Williamson and Wilson in Tennessee; Lauderdale, in Alabama; Crittenden and Mississippi in Arkansas; Allen and Monroe in Kentucky; and Alcorn, Benton, Tippah and Tishomingo in Mississippi. What’s available: Only Primary Counties, including Mobile in the declaration can apply for the following loans with SBA: 1. Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible. Max. loan 2 million dollars. 2. Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. Residents that sustained physical damages need to register with FEMA first. Max. loan $200,000 for homeowners (primary residence) & $40,000 for personal property including renters. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 6, 2023. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. All businesses and private non-profit organizations qualifying in primary counties (including Tipton and Haywood) and contiguous counties (including Shelby (Memphis), Lauderdale and Fayette) may apply with SBA for EIDL without any proof of physical damages. 1. Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations…

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the hosts interviews: Liliana Tschanett, Public Affairs Specialist, Field Operations Center - East, Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R), U.S. Small Business Administration and Retired Army Lt. Col. Jack Pagano, ran a TV station in Afghanistan, and is now the COO-Chief operating Officer for Shamshad Radio Television Network, an over-the air and satellite television channel in Afghanistan, and is part of the FEMA Response Strike Team. The pair were on the show to talk about disaster assistance offered by SBA in Tennessee in your area after the natural disaster that occurred from March 31 – April 1, 2023. The disaster declaration covers Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties in Tennessee, which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs): Bedford, Chester, Clay, Coffee, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, DeKalb, Fayette, Henderson, Hickman, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Madison, Marshall, Maury, Perry, Shelby, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, Warren, Williamson and Wilson in Tennessee; Lauderdale, in Alabama; Crittenden and Mississippi in Arkansas; Allen and Monroe in Kentucky; and Alcorn, Benton, Tippah and Tishomingo in Mississippi. What’s available: Only Primary Counties, including Mobile in the declaration can apply for the following loans with SBA: 1. Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible. Max. loan 2 million dollars. 2. Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. Residents that sustained physical damages need to register with FEMA first. Max. loan $200,000 for homeowners (primary residence) & $40,000 for personal property including renters. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 6, 2023. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. All businesses and private non-profit organizations qualifying in primary counties (including Tipton and Haywood) and contiguous counties (including Shelby (Memphis), Lauderdale and Fayette) may apply with SBA for EIDL without any proof…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Mary Ross, Director of Sales, Catering and Marketing at Doubletree by Hilton Jackson. Ross, who is a Sterling Award winner and was recently recognized as the "Most Influential Woman" by City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger, shared with listeners how she came to become part of the Cooper Hotels team and how that changed the trajectory of her career. She also spoke about the recent announcement by DoubleTree by Hilton Jackson of a commitment of 100 volunteer hours to be spent among the West Tennessee Veterans Coalition, RIFA Jackson and Boys & Girls Club of Jackson. While the hotel already supports many local non-profits, this renewed commitment ensures an even stronger effort will be made by the DoubleTree by Hilton Jackson team. The 100 volunteer hours are in celebration of the hotel’s parent company, Cooper Hotels of Memphis, committing to 100 years of future Hilton brand affiliation among its 16 hotels and its $100 million planned Hilton investment in hotel upgrades. “Cooper Hotels and our team at DoubleTree by Hilton Jackson are thrilled to continue our company’s longtime relationship with Hilton for another 100 years and to provide $100 million in renovations and makeovers to ensure our hotels remain the leaders in their markets,” said Pace Cooper, president and CEO of Cooper Hotels. “What better way to celebrate these achievements than to share 100 hours of volunteer time with these organizations.” The 16 Cooper Hotels properties each selected a special local organization to receive 100 hours of volunteer time. The chosen organizations have missions to help strengthen the community, help preserve the environment or foster youth opportunities. About Cooper Hotels Cooper Hotels is a privately owned hotel development and management company founded in 1959. The company owns and manages 16 Hilton Family of Brands hotels in four states including three Hilton hotels, seven DoubleTree by Hilton hotels, two Homewood Suites by Hilton hotels, two Hilton Garden Inn hotels, one Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton and one Embassy Suites by Hilton. For more information about Cooper Hotels please visit www.cooperhotels.com.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews with Kimberlee Moore, executive director of the West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center executive director, and Rachel Maxwell, the Center’s marketing coordinator. Moore and Maxwell will talk about how they came to work at the Center, how the Center helps children and adults, and what gives them joy about working at the Center. Moore and Maxwell will also share information about the Center’s upcoming fundraising event: 10th Annual Speaking of Art event. Please join the Center Thursday, May 4, 2023, for a night at the New Southern Hotel, located at 118 E. Baltimore Street, in Jackson, Tennessee, with art for purchase by West Tennessee's local artist. Heavy hors d oeuvres by neighboring restaurants will be served, all while listening to music by the Jackson Symphony. This event helps West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center's, "Everyone's Voice Should Be Heard," grant program. The purpose of this funding grant is to provide financial assistance to children and adults within the community who need help paying for treatment, devices, and other services that will allow them to communicate better. Purchase your tickets today at www.eventbrite.com. If you have any questions, please contact the Center’s office at 731-668-6076 or visit www.wthsc.com.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Paula Anderson, of Writing by Design Media, Inc., about the exciting free in-person event, "Candid Conversations with Entrepreneurs," happening Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 210 E. Lafayette Street, Jackson, Tennessee. Join local entrepreneurs and small business advocates as they engage in an insightful conversation about business planning. Starting a business is just the beginning; scaling and growing requires significant investments in money and resources. "Candid Conversations with Entrepreneurs" aims to create a supportive community for entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs, providing opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate. The right conversations can lead to incredible growth, opportunity, and exposure! The esteemed panelists include: Danielle Barbee, The Math Success Coach Dr. Mike Chua, Gerihab Physical Therapy and Wellness Jonathan Pounds, Regions Bank Lakesha Smith, Comfortably Clean Moderated by Paula Anderson, Writing by Design Media, Inc. In addition, show your support for a local Black-owned business! Floral Cakes, owned by Genevieve Renee Dupree, recently opened in Downtown Jackson and will serve as the event's host location. For more information, visit wbdmedia.com.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews community activist, musical artist and producer WuttaBoy, who recently released the music video to his track "Testimony". Tune in as WuttaBoy shares his humble beginnings as an intern for DJ Drama at Mean Streets/Atlantic Records in Atlanta. WuttaBoy has worked behind the scenes with top producers for artists like Lil Uzi, Playboi Carti, and A Boogie, to name a few. His journey has led to collaborations with big-name producers such as Don Cannon, Zaytoven, and Jahlil Beats, as well as working with major artists like Offset's Duke Deuce (who gave us the hit song "Crunk Ain't Dead") and the legendary Method Man! WuttaBoy's influence reaches beyond America, as he's been generating buzz in Indonesia too. With over 5 million views across Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for his cover songs, WuttaBoy has earned a tour in Jakarta, Indonesia, starting later this year! His track "Testimony" showcases WuttaBoy's exquisite range and god-given talent. It's a short but truly sweet song that highlights his superior style. This fantastic artist is going for gold, and we can't wait to see what's next! WuttaBoy, whose name is Darees Kaleemah, also speaks about what led him to approach a police lieutenant during a 2020 peaceful protest and ask the police force to join the protesters as they marched in Atlanta following the death of George Floyd. Check out more on WuttaBoy through the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wuttaboy Tidal: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/tidal Pandora: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/pandora Apple: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/applemusic YT Music: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/youtubemusic Spotify: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/spotify Deezer: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/deezer Amazon MP3: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/amazonmp3 Amazon Streaming: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/amazonmusic iTunes: https://wuttaboy.lnk.to/testimony/itunes Support and follow WuttaBoy's incredible journey! #WuttaBoy #HubCityNow #Testimony #RisingStar

Don't miss the next episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr." Sunday, March 26, 2023, 2023, at 6:15 a.m.. My guest is DJ Vudu Spellz. The show will air on 97.7 FM Jammin Jackson (for those in and around Jackson, Tennessee), Radio731.com and the Radio731 app at 6:15 a.m. Sunday. Two-time Grammy accredited platinum producer and international DJ, DJ VUDU SPELLZ, is the next generation of upcoming seasoned Dj's and producers. His chart topping produced song “Georgia”, performed by Ludacris and Jamie Foxx, was nominated for best hip-hop collaboration at the 2007 Grammy Awards. Vudu also has production and writers credits on Ludacris’ “Release Therapy” album that won a Grammy for “Best Rap Album Of The Year” at the 2007 Grammy Awards. Vudu has produced on numerous #1 billboard chart topping albums and was blessed to receive two platinum plaques in his first official year as a freshman in the recording industry. Vudu has been producing and recording since 1994 but some of Vudu’s recent NRA projects include Ludacris, Jamie Foxx, Chingy, R.Kelly, Do Or Die, Shawnna, Reuben Studdard, Montell Jordan, Cece Peniston and a host of others. Vudu has also done voice overs for promos and commercials for TVT Records which aired on BET Awards Show and recent radio ad for PBS tv series "Fight The Power" executive produced and hosted by hip hop Icon Chuck D from Public Enemy. Vudu produced songs for Grammy Award winner Harold Lily who wrote “You Don’t Know My Name” for Alicia Keys. Harold and Vudu’s collaboration “Po Pimpin” appeared in Ushers Movie “In The Mix”. Vudu’s guest appearances as a DJ and as a producer include BET’s “106 and Park”, BET’s “Rap City - The Basement”, “Fox - In The Morning”, “UPN’s Reality Hip Hop Show”, and “ Girls Gone Wild Spring Break - South Padre” so it’s safe to say Vudu’s no stranger to the camera. Vudu gets his name from the original word Voodoo which is perceived to be negative. Vudu changed the spelling and put a twist on it with his new definition : “controlling my audience in a positive way through my music, therefore putting a Vudu Spellz on them” . Vudu's New Orleans Gumbo-like style is a unique blend of Dirty South, Midwest, East and West Coast hip-hop .Vudu produces and spins Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Top 40 and a taste of many other genre’s…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Jake Old, an attorney with West Tennessee Legal Services. WTLS has several grants in which it is helping survivors of the recent disasters in our area. Old tells us about this initiative and other programs that WTLS provides. For more information, visit www.wtls.org. About West Tennessee Legal Services West Tennessee Legal Services, a nonprofit law firm, offers free civil legal representation and educational programs to help people in 17 West Tennessee counties receive justice, protect well-being, and support opportunities to overcome poverty. Counties served from offices in Jackson, Dyersburg, Huntingdon, and Selmer are Benton, Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Madison, McNairy, Obion, and Weakley. WTLS is funded in part by the Legal Services Corporation and state, federal, and local funding, including United Way in Dyer, McNairy, and Weakley counties. Learn more at www.wtls.org or by following the firm on Facebook.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviewed Caitlin Roach Clark, executive director of Friends of Heart. Friends of Heart was born in 2017 at Flatiron Grille in Jackson, Tennessee. There are many who served as creators of this much-needed LOCAL heart and vascular care initiative. Several of those present that evening had been involved with a national non-profit and although that organization does great things the funds being raised were not coming back to our community for this reason Friends of Heart exists today! The organization has 21 board members with co-chairs Bob Arrington and Janet Silver and one executive director: Caitlin Roach Clark. Roach Clark spoke about 4-Minute City: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death in the U.S. and we are doing something to change that in our community! Friends of Heart is partnering with Avive Solutions, alongside The City of Jackson, the Jackson Fire Department, and West TN Healthcare to significantly increase survival rates of SCA in Jackson through a program called 4-Minute City. Together, we plan to bring cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking ideas to Jackson by placing Avive's intelligent AEDs across the city and deploying their first-of-its-kind cardiac arrest response technology. Most importantly, we plan to work with the citizens of Jackson to create a culture of saving lives from cardiac arrest through free training and educational resources so that all of you are prepared to save a life. Learn more at avive.life/jackson This project addresses the public health issue of Sudden Cardiac Arrest occurrences. This is a program that focuses on increasing survival rates of people in sudden cardiac arrest through free public training for hands-only CPR/AED and placement of connected AED’s in our community. Three ways to get involved: Learn Hands-only CPR/AED Training either by scheduling an in-person class or going to our virtual training site where you can learn what to do if you witness an SCA incident. Chances are you will save the life of a loved one. 70% of out-of-hospital SCA occur in the home. Become a member of the Cardiac Arrest Rapid Engagement Team (CARE) led by the Jackson Fire Department. Give a donation of $1,500.00 to sponsor an AED in our community. This donation will supply a person on the CARE Team with a life-saving device and connectivity for five years. Roach Clark also spoke about a free EKG screening…

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the host speaks with The Positive Living Group’s Executive Clinical Director, Trauma Expert and Owner Twana Miller and PLG's Director of Marketing and Coordination Events David Bryant. The Positive Living Group’s vision is to facilitate and enhance positive change in the lives of individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities. PLG’s mission is to provide evidence-based treatment, a forward-thinking approach, and the most cutting-edge research-based therapy models along with coaching to facilitate positive growth and change. At PLG, it offers a variety of services and treatment approaches to help you reach your goals. It offers one-on-one counseling, anger management counseling, marriage and family counseling, therapy for children and adolescents, substance abuse and addiction treatment, and infant mental health services. Many of its approaches, such as biofeedback and dry needle therapy, are unique in West Tennessee. For more information on The Positive Living Group, visit at positivelivinggroup.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PLGJackson or Instagram at www.instagram.com/plgjackson/. Join the Positive Living Group as it honors everyday heroes from our community Saturday, March 4, 2023, at its 3rd annual Giraffe Awards. It will be held at Picture Perfect Events, located at 2310 N. Highland Ave., Suite B, Jackson, Tenn. Proceeds from this event will be used to assist members of our community in financial hardship get access to emotional and behavioral healthcare. Tennessee was ranked one of the lowest states in the nation for access to mental & behavioral healthcare.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews producer, rapper and barber Phantom, of Clarksville, Tennessee. Phantom spoke about his love of music, how he grew into the rapper he is today, the doors that have opened for him and his outlook for the future. Phantom also spoke about his hit song titled: “Tennessee”, in which he represents his state. It is an anthem which is sure to get fans out of their seats at every sporting event, whether you’re a fan of the Tennessee Titans, the Memphis Grizzlies, or the Tennessee Volunteers. This song will get fans to unite and celebrate what it means to be the volunteer State! The track is produced by Albert Whitehead a.k.a. ZaeSkee Alazae. You'll hear the track at the end of the interview. For more information on Phantom, visit Instagram.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviewed Wendy Isom Mercer, one-stop operator for American Job Center of Southwest Tennessee. American Job Centers (AJCs) provide free services that help you find steady, good-paying jobs all over Tennessee. You can get training, job counseling, financial aid for education, and much more. Mercer spoke about how she came to work for American Job Center, the services American Job Center provides, upcoming job fairs and more. For more information on American Job Center Tennessee or to find a center near you, visit www.tnvirtualajc.com or www.jobs4tn.gov. The Virtual AJC is always open. For those who live in Jackson, visit the AJC located at 1124 Whitehall Street, Suite 100, Jackson, Tennessee, 38301or call (731) 668-2040 to make an appointment. You can also find American Job Center on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/SWTNjobs.