Hub City Now

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host speaks to rapper ReUp Ty, who uses inspired and soulful lyrics along with energetic and rhythmic pop beats to highlight and speak about the things he has seen, witnessed and lived in his life. Chicago-based rapper Tyshawn Smith also known as ReUp Ty has had a long, enduring journey with music. It is the continuous message of hope that ReUp Ty has expounded that has solidfied him as an eccentric, unbeatable new addition to the musical scene. Since ReUp Ty has gone through many difficult phases in life which included deaths of loved ones, drugs, and violence, he has a wide level of expertise in dealing with all sorts of issues, allowing him to serve and shine as a brilliant ray of hope in a sea of darkness. Check out his artist’s music pages to get a taste of hard-hitting and melodious music that pushes you to realize your wildest dreams! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reup.ty Instagram: https://instagram.com/reup_ty?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Twitter: https://twitter.com/reup_ty?s=21&t=gJxnXovcnv6AW0AurX_Cbg YouTube: https://youtube.com/@reupty6286 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7eaffIOO2bb3sgzJlpbcMp SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/reupty

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.," the host spoke with Julie Wigger, founder and creative director of the Hub City Picklers. Wigger spoke about the upcoming Hub City Spring Showdown Pickleball Tournament hosted by Hub City Picklers and presented by Knott’s Fine Foods. The tournament will be held Friday, April 26, through Sunday, April 28, 2024, at Conger Park in Jackson, Tennessee, and offers singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions. From seasoned players to newcomers, the tournament is open to anyone and with 18 additional courts due to open in the spring, organizers are anticipating record participation, which could top at more than 300 players. "We are really grateful to Knott’s Fine Foods for their generous sponsorship and dedication to making this event a success,” said Julie Wigger, founder and creative director of the Hub City Picklers. Registration is now open, early registration deadline was April 1. Participants can register online https://tinyurl.com/47nymezw All events are $65 with early-bird pricing, $75 regular registration (now through April 22), except 5.0 events. There will be an additional $15 per event fee. With a $7,000 purse up for grabs and medal rounds featuring gold, silver, and bronze honors, the competition promises to be fierce and rewarding. The action-packed weekend kicks off on Friday, April 26th, with singles matches for both men and women. Doubles competitions follow on Saturday, April 27th, and the tournament concludes on Sunday, April 28th, with mixed doubles play. Detailed scheduling information will be provided closer to the event dates. Food: Friday- Woodstock Bakery-lunchboxes with sandwiches, chips and cupcakes. Saturday- Knott’s Foods. They will be grilling and have dips and pimento cheeses for us to try. Have a taste of their “fried pickle dip” Sunday-Old Country Store. They are delivering 200 breakfast sandwiches. There will be snacks and water available and all food offered is complimentary. WATER STATION-We are thrilled to have Denise and Johnathon Chung of Guiding Star Insurance as our sponsors for the HYDRATION STATION. Please come see them for insurance quotes and needs and to also stay hydrated before, during and after your play. They will have ice, plain water, infused water and multiple fruits to nibble on during the tournament. They will be there all 3 days! Premier sponsor Knott’s Fine Foods will have a booth set up to celebrate this year’s tournament offering concessions that will include the latest creation,…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Andy Cole, Pro Bono Coordinator at West Tennessee Legal Services. Cole spoke about how he joined with WTLS, expungements and the upcoming April 19 expungement clinic for charges in Madison County, Tennessee. This clinic will allow qualifying individuals to have their criminal record erased. People may be eligible for expungement in Tennessee if they had charges against them dismissed, a “no true bill” was returned by a grand jury, they were arrested and released without being charged, they went to trial, which resulted in a not guilty verdict, or the case resulted in a nolle prosequi (prosecution will not be pursued). Additionally, some misdemeanor and felony convictions may be eligible for an expungement. “Many times, people make mistakes in their lives that stay on their record forever, we want to help people who are eligible for an expungement get these charges erased from their record,” Cole said. “This is a great opportunity for people to be able to move on from their past.” This clinic is only for people who have charges in Madison County General Sessions or Circuit Courts. Pre-registration is required. Registration is open and ends April 5, 2024. The TN Justice Bus will on-site to support this event. Anyone interested in registering for the clinic can call WTLS at 731-423-0616 or visit wtls.org to complete an online application. Anyone interested in registering for the clinic can call WTLS at 731-423-0616. 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 wellbeing, 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 spoke to Mehr Mansuri, Nancy Ewing and Sue St. Clair. Mansuri, St. Clair and Ewing spoke about The Kids with a Cause: Children’s Theatre Company's full musical showcase featuring musical highlights of The Lorax (about trees and habitat) and Rescue Me: A Musical History of Women, will be presented by children and youth of Jackson at the NED Cultural Arts Center, Saturday, March 30th at 7 p.m., free charge; and a community service project at the ComeUnity Cafe Garden next door to the NED. Thr showcase is in celebration of Earth Day and Women’s History Month. “Our goal is to showcase the children and youth of Jackson as the voices of positive change and agents of healing in their communities,” said Eric Dozier, Music Director/ Director of Equity & Outreach of Children’s Theatre Company. In honor of Earth Day, the evening will feature highlights from Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax adapted by Lory Lazarus and Frank Sanchez and directed by award-winning Jackson choreographer, Veronica Sesson. Also being celebrated is Women’s History Month with highlights of the hit show, Rescue Me: A Musical History of Women by Dorothy Marcic. Rescue Me is a review of the lyrics and music of the Top 40 songs by women from the blues to disco. Nadia Beard, the NED resident director and choreographer, will be directing. “While bringing generations together, children, parents and their grandparents will relish the music, tap their feet and dance in their seats,” said Nadia Beard. “My heart has been touched by the mission and performances of this unique theater company featuring kids reciting some of the wisest words ever uttered that is all the more stirring when proclaimed by young voices. I urge everyone to come and take part and fill the house and your heart at the NED!” said Matt Marshall, President of United Way of West Tennessee. We are so grateful to Mayor Conger and our national partners, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Wayfarer Foundation, and the Baha’i Office of Education & Schools, and our amazing local partners, including, AKA Sorority, Keep Jackson Beautiful; the NAACP; United Way of West TN and the Society of African American Cultural Awareness – SAACA, Historic First Baptist Church,” said Mehr Mansuri, Executive Artistic Director.

In this episode of " Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.". the host interviews The Top Ladies of Distinction, Incorporated Jackson (Tenn.) Chapter (TLOD) President Lady Pamela Springfield and Lady Kimberly Jones. They were on the show to talk about the 13th Annual Lady Annie Ruth Rogers "Go Red for Your Heart & Soul" Luncheon at 12 p.m. Saturday, February 10, 2024. The event will be held at New St. Luke Activity Center, 54 Lawerence Switch Road, Jackson, Tennessee, 38301. Jones serves as the chair of the event. Tickets are $35. To purchase a ticket, contact a member of TLOD or call Lafy Springfield at (731) 298-6118. Come celebrate the recognition of men, women, and children heart survivors from the community, a heart-healthy meal, vendors, door prizes, entertainment, education, and more. There will be live music, food, and a silent auction. This event is a community service for the Black community which contains high rates of hypertension and heart disease. During the program, a professional from the medical community delivers a motivational message, and those living with heart conditions are honored. The American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative, Go Red for Women, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. It’s no longer just about wearing red; it’s no longer just about sharing heart health facts. It’s about all women making a commitment to stand together with Go Red and taking charge of their own heart health as well as the health of those they can’t bear to live without. Making a commitment to your health isn’t something you have to do alone either, so grab a friend or a family member and Go Red today. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of new moms and accounts for over one-third of maternal deaths. Black women have some of the highest maternal mortality rates. Top Ladies of Distinction is a national organization with a chapter here in Jackson, TN. The organization also sponsors a youth group called Top Teens of America.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr." the host interviews Gary Bradley and Ja'Vieon Bradley. The host talks with Gary and Ja'Vieon about how they got into comics, about their comic book characters, world and storylines and why their characters needed to look like them. Find out more about Gary and Ja'Vieon below: Gary André Bradley Gary André Bradley is a self-published writer and artist living in Jackson, Tennessee, and a huge fan of comic books and superheroes. Power G is the superhero he created years ago when he was a child, the character being a fictionalized version of himself that stems from his love of the genre. Gary would go on to create various comics with Power G as the main character for years. He attended The University of Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English/Creative Writing in 2008. While attending, he briefly had his humor strip, Cool Catt, published in the school's newspaper, The Daily Helmsman. Pursuing his career in writing and comics, Gary later decided to present Power G to the public. The first issue of a new ongoing series, which includes a new origin for Power G, was released in 2022 and is available in physical and digital formats on Amazon, Google Play Books, and Indyplanet.com. Ja'Vieon Z. Bradley Ja'Vieon Z. Bradley is a 17-year-old junior from Jackson, Tennessee who attends JCM-Early College High. Finding a love for comics, manga, and anime at an early age, the young creator came up with the first draft of his manga-inspired comic Oneiro all the way back in the 7th grade, after being inspired by various science-fiction stories and learning about the concept of lucid dreaming. Ja'Vieon put his own spin on these concepts, and along with his original ideas, he self-published the current version of Oneiro in 2023, with Chapter One of the ongoing series available in physical and digital formats on Amazon and Indyplanet.com. Gary's Social Media Links omni-worldcomics.com facebook.com/omniworldcomics TikTok:@GaryB912 youtube.com/@omni-worldcomics instagram.com/garyabradley912 omniwear.threadless.com Ja'Vieon's Social Media Links omni-worldcomics.com twitter.com/oneiro23 twitter.com/jaytoonz320 youtube.com/@jaytoonz5736 TikTok:@jaytoonz320 omniwear.threadless.com

In this episode of “Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.”, the host interviews Solomon “Shazam” Conner, lead singer and founding member of multi-platinum, R & B Hall of Fame super group H-Town! The band recorded the hit song “Knockin’ Da Boots”, its biggest hit which was #1 on the R & B charts and peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Conner speaks about the group’s meteoric rise in the 1990s, what it was like to go from high school and suddenly be superstars along with his twin brother, the late Kevon “Dino” Conner, and their friend Darryl “G.I.” Jackson, traveling the world, performing and recording hit songs. Conner also spoke about musical influences, why he wanted to be in music, what it was like to perform with legendary singers and have hit songs on soundtracks for Jason’s Lyric, A Thin Line Between Love and Hate and Above the Rim. Conner also elaborates on his solo career, his current hit songs “Pac Man” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=g10Or_jmBvo) and “Strokey Doke” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-HIqTkz2UQ), when we can expect his solo album and why H-Town is still going strong all over the world. Aired: 10/29/2023

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews 19-year-old Australian singer, songwriter, performer Luke Harrison. Harrison spoke about his newest single "Make Me Better", how he got into the music and entertainment industry, and how his gifts and talents have taken him to other countries. Harrison is currently working on three new singles showcasing his extraordinary skills and abilities. He is a multi-instrumentalist, playing piano, drums and percussion. He also acts and had performed in many productions in Australia and the USA. Harrison also offers encouragement and advice to those who want to get into the music or entertainment industry and why it's important to overcome rejection. Find out more about Luke at www.lukeharrisonperformer.com/ or @lukeharrisonofficial on Instagram, at https://www.youtube.com/c/lukeharrison on YouTube.com and you can find his music on Spotify and Apple Music.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Dr. Mechelle Moragne, president of The Jackson (Tenn.) Chapter of the Links Incorporated and Dr. LaToshia Chism, event chair of The Holiday Emerald Jazz Brunch. Dr. Moragne and Dr. Chism, members of The Jackson (Tenn.) Chapter of the Links Incorporated, spoke about the organization and its upcoming event: The Holiday Emerald Jazz Brunch, Saturday, December 9, 2023, at New St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church Activity Center, located at 54 Lawrence Switch, Jackson, Tennessee, 38301.The event is being held to raise funds to supply local schools with sanitizing supplies because of the flu season and the ongoing threat of COVID. Dr. Moragne and Dr. Chism also spoke about the community programs The Links offer, how Links are chosen, why the organization was founded and why they accepted the invitation to join. Find out more about the brunch, the organization, how it helps the community and more in this interview. You can find out more about the Links by going to https://bit.ly/3MOIvkD.

In this episode of “Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.”, the host interviews event coordinator Jennifer Holmes and The Salvation Army community engagement specialist Emily Ricket. Holmes and Ricket spoke about the Ring the Bells 5K & 1 Mile Kids Run Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Jackson, Tennessee. Holmes, the event coordinator said the event is for the community to come together, have fun and help support organizations that are helping those in need in our community. AREA RELIEF MINISTRIES & THE SALVATION ARMY are pleased to put on Ring the Bells race for services to support the Jackson-Madison County, Tennessee, area through the Christmas holiday season by raising funds through a 5K and 1-mile Kid’s run. As the Christmas season begins to unfold, Area Relief Ministries and Salvation Army works to help so many within the Jackson-Madison County, Tennessee, community in several ways. In raising money for Area Relief Ministries & Salvation Army, the charge will be $15 per child for the 1 mile run, $25 for the 5K run with no t-shirt, and $30 for the 5K run with t-shirt. Each runner will receive a medal. The event will be held at the West TN Farmers Market, 91 New Market Street, Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 9 a.m. through 12 p.m. There will be hot cocoa, cookies, Christmas costume contests, & more holiday festivities, including local art and Christmas story reading. Ring the Bells 5K & 1 Mile Kids Run is a race for adults and children alike, for runners and walkers. • Sign-ups & breakfast begins at 8:00am. • 1 Mile Kid’s Run begins at 9:00am. • Costume contest begins at 9:40am. • 5K run begins at 10am. • Awards ceremony begins at 11:15am. You can sign up by clicking on the following link: runsignup.com/Race/TN/Jackson/RingtheBells5K1MileKidsRun! The 5K course takes you from the Farmer’s Market in downtown Jackson, through the LANA/Midtown area of Jackson, Tennessee, and past the University of Memphis at Lambuth campus. The 1-mile Kid’s run is within this jurisdiction, as well. After Sunday, November 26, 2023, t-shirt orders are closed. T-shirts might be available upon race day until they run out. For questions or more information please contact: Jennifer Holmes (213)-642-6351 or fitjenholmes@icloud.com. Learn more about The Salvation Army Jackson Tennessee at https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/Jackson-TN/home-1. Learn more about ARM at www.areareliefministries.org.

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Dr. Martha Robinson, Area Relief Ministries Board chairwoman. Robinson spoke about the ARM, in partnership with local nonprofit organizations and city leaders, hosting a roundtable discussion on issues affecting the homeless from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Thursday, November 9, 2023, at First Methodist-Downtown Jackson, located at 200 South Church Street, in Jackson, Tennessee, with the hope of improving local systems and procedures to benefit neighbors in need. According to Robinson and a news release from ARM, the goal of the roundtable discussion is to brainstorm new ways to help break the cycle of homelessness in the Jackson area. ARM’s leaders have invited participants who specialize in fields such as healthcare, housing, mental health services, vocational services and crisis centers, along with volunteers from local churches to attend the meeting. Such individuals can help to evaluate the current methods that influence West Tennessee’s Continuum of Care (COC). Robin said the main presenter during the discussion will be Neru Gobin, director of housing and homeless services for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. The news release said, "Gobin leads 15 service delivery programs and initiatives that collectively provide supportive housing, housing support, and homeless outreach services across Tennessee. He also oversees the Tennessee Creating Homes Initiative, which leverages resources to further the statewide efforts to provide safe, quality, affordable permanent housing opportunities for Tennesseans experiencing mental illness, co-occurring disorders and substance use disorders. The initiative expanded its efforts by adding a focus on permanent housing for Tennesseans in recovery from substance use disorders and who reenter the community from prisons and jails. Additional panelists will also contribute to the discussion." A faith-based nonprofit organization, Area Relief Ministries has been serving West Tennessee since the 1970s. ARM’s mission is to strengthen our community by providing services that alleviate suffering, promote dignity and foster hope for those in need… as an expression of the ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ (areareliefministries.org). With the help of generous sponsors, volunteers and partner groups, ARM regularly meets the needs of the growing number of homeless in the community by offering housing services, dental/medical/emergency assistance and vocational training. In order to learn more or to become involved, individuals may contact Fred McKinnie at 731-423-9257 or fmckinnie@areareliefministries.org. #AreaReliefMinistries #homelessness #ARM #HubCityNow #TyroneTonyReedJr #DrMarthaRobinson #NeruGobin #TennesseeDepartmentofMentalHealthandSubstanceAbuseServices

In this episode of Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr., the host interviewed Mulata Moba of Motema Ministries. Moba spoke about the 13th Annual Taste of the Congo fundraiser, which will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, October 14, 2023. The event will be held at West Jackson Baptist Church, located at 580 Oil Well Road in Jackson, Tennessee. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 for adults in advance, $35 at the door, $15 for ages 11-17 and free for children 10 and under. Tables reservations are $240 (8 seats). Come enjoy the tastes and sounds of the Congo with a night of Congolese cuisine, music and fashion to benefit Motema Ministries’ work in the Congo. Mottema Ministries is “a community of Christians wishing to share the Gospel through empowerment and education with good works and deeds in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Motema means “heart” in Lingala, one of the primary languages spoken in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This simple word represents what drives this organization—a heart for God and a heart for people. In all we do, we at Motema Ministries try to use our hearts to serve people in the Congo.” The non-profit organization teaches women and men in the Congo to sew and equips them with the skills and tools to become entrepreneurs. According to the organization, “The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the largest countries in Africa. It is home to over 75 million people and more than 200 different ethnic groups. Yet, despite its size and diversity, Congo is one of the world’s most poor and broken countries. Years of war and a crumbling economy have ravaged the country, meaning that the average Congolese person must struggle to make a living. Motema seeks to step into these difficult circumstances and provide opportunities to help young entrepreneurs, families, and children. Currently, we operate a vocational sewing school in Masina, a district of Kinshasa, the nation’s capital.” “At the school, people from the community take part in a multiple-month sewing course, learning how to sew from scratch, free of charge. In a country like Congo where trips to the tailor are a common occurrence, learning this critical vocational skill can provide a source of income and help in finding a job. In some cases, the training has provided young entrepreneurs the impetus needed to begin producing…

In this episode of "Hub City Now with Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.", the host interviews Brianna Kline, Brooks Shaw and Son's Old Country Store marketing and events leader. Kline spoke about her journey to Jackson and applying for a job as a cashier but getting the one she had actually created. Kline spoke about the 3rd Annual Clark Shaw Memorial Prayer Walk. This year’s walk continued the work begun by the late Clark Shaw and Jackson First Assembly of God Church Senior Pastor Garry Martin, who coordinated the first prayer walk in the Old Hickory area in 2018. About 550 people and 28 churches were involved in the first walk. Clark Shaw operated The Old Country Store, which was founded by his father Brooks Shaw in 1965, as a Southern-style buffet, gift and ice cream shoppe, and it has been a tourist destination for more than 50 years. Clark’s son, Brooks, is the third generation Shaw to run the business. The prayer walk is named in honor of Clark Shaw, who died in November 2020 from COVID-19, and shares his mission to pray for the city as a whole and bring more people to Christ. Kline also spoke about The Old Country Store's Second Annual Casey Jones Village Festival on The Farm will be held Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., at 56 Casey Jones Lane in Jackson. The fun-filled day offers several activities, including a petting zoo, games, live music and vendors for Guests to enjoy. Admission is free, however guests may want to bring cash to purchase gifts, food and for special activities while visiting. Individuals can find the latest festival updates by following facebook.com/caseyjonesvillagefestival and visiting caseyjones.com/events. Open daily year-round (except for Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store includes the restaurant, Miss Anne’s Ice Cream Shoppe, Miss Juanita’s Gift Shop and the Dixie Café Takeout or Dine-In at 56 Casey Jones Lane in Jackson, Tennessee. Old Country Store will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. Individuals may learn more by visiting instagram.com/caseyjonesvillage, facebook.com/oldcountrystore and caseyjones.com or calling 731-668-1223.

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.