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Bronny James is the Highest Paid Player in the G League But Ranks Almost Last

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Bronny James is the Highest Paid Player in the G League But Ranks Almost Last

Nationwide — When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James, the 20-year-old son of LeBron James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, expectations were mixed. While some assumed he would spend most of his rookie season developing in the G League, the Lakers surprised many by signing him to a guaranteed contract and keeping him on the NBA roster to start the season. Notably, Bronny is the highest-paid player in the G League making more than $1 million but currently, he ranks 330th out of 336 players in performance metrics.

According to Bro Bible, after struggling in his initial NBA games, where he appeared out of sync, the Lakers reassigned Bronny to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. However, the move came with a unique arrangement: Bronny would only play home games for South Bay, rejoining the NBA roster when the G League team traveled.

Bronny has since made two appearances for South Bay, but his performances have been far from promising. In his debut on November 9, he scored just six points on 22% shooting. His second outing didn’t fare much better, as he finished with four points on 2-of-10 shooting, along with two rebounds, two assists, and a block, in a 127-122 loss.

South Bay head coach Zach Guthrie offered a candid assessment of Bronny’s early struggles. “It’s about competing at a high level and playing the right way,” Guthrie explained. “We need to raise our collective intensity on the ball. It’s hard when you haven’t played at a high level your whole life. You have to learn to be physical, dictate the pace, and adapt to modern offenses. In the G League, there are no days off; every possession matters.” Bronny’s difficulties stand in stark contrast to players like Mac McClung, the 2024 G League MVP and two-time NBA Dunk Contest champion. Even McClung, despite his success in the G League, has struggled to secure a permanent spot on an NBA roster, highlighting the uphill battle Bronny faces in his professional development.

Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election for Chattanooga City Council District 9

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Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election for Chattanooga City Council District 9

Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod recently announced that she will not seek re-election for Chattanooga City Council District 9. Known as a fierce advocate and a passionate leader, Councilwoman Coonrod has spent her tenure championing issues that impact not just District 9, but the entire City of Chattanooga. Her leadership has been grounded in a commitment to equity, justice, and building stronger communities across all neighborhoods.

“This has been one of the most challenging and rewarding journeys of my life,” said Councilwoman Coonrod. “Serving District 9 has been an honor, but my work was never just about one district–it was about advocating for the entire City of Chattanooga. In this pivotal moment, I believe our city must shift focus toward collaboration and connection. Building and strengthening community is no longer an option; it is a necessity. We can no longer afford to operate in political silos. Chattanooga’s future depends on our ability to bridge divides, align on what truly matters, and ensure that every Chattanoogan has the opportunity to thrive.”

Councilwoman Coonrod has consistently pushed the city to think bigger and act boldly in addressing systemic inequities. From fighting for second chances for justice-involved individuals to advocating for affordable housing, economic opportunity, and youth empowerment, her leadership has been transformational. Her lived experience as a formerly incarcerated individual has given her a unique ability to connect with underserved communities and to craft policies rooted in understanding, compassion, and fairness.

“I’ve worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of those who have been ignored or forgotten. My journey is proof that redemption is possible, and my mission has been to ensure everyone–no matter their background or circumstances–has a chance to succeed. I believe deeply in the potential of Chattanooga, but for us to reach that potential, we must unite and move forward together.”

Councilwoman Coonrod also emphasized the importance of civic engagement at every level of government. “It’s my hope that people will get involved and understand the critical role of government in shaping our communities. Liberty, economic prosperity, and restoring the American dream for every Chattanoogan depend on all of us coming together to make a difference. These values must remain at the heart of our work as a city.”

In a time when polarization often takes precedence, Councilwoman Coonrod calls on Chattanooga’s leaders and residents to prioritize unity and purpose. “Chattanooga cannot afford to stand still. We must be bold in addressing the real challenges our city faces, and that starts with bridging gaps and breaking down silos. Together, we must focus on what’s important: creating a city where every child has a chance, every family has stability, and every neighborhood has opportunity. The time for unity is now.”

As she prepares to leave public office, Councilwoman Coonrod expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the residents of District 9 and the entire City of Chattanooga for their support and trust. “To the people of District 9 and this great city, thank you for believing in me and trusting me to lead. While I may not be seeking re-election, my commitment to advocacy and community building remains steadfast. This is not the end of my work, but the start of a new chapter in continuing to fight for the Chattanooga we all deserve.”

Chattanooga Fire Department’s New Hiring Age is 18

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Chattanooga Fire Department’s New Hiring Age is 18

by Tribune Staff

The Chattanooga Fire Department’s minimum hiring age is now 18, allowing us to recruit a new demographic group. We would like to thank the support of our city leaders after the Chattanooga City Council held a final vote to approve the change today. It will positively

impact our overall potential candidate pool, giving us access to a greater number of individuals seeking rewarding careers in the fire service. 

“This change represents a critical step forward in expanding opportunities for young people in Chattanooga who are eager to serve their community,” said Mayor Tim Kelly. “By lowering the Chattanooga Fire Department’s minimum hiring age to 18, we are helping CFD recruit talented public servants while opening doors for motivated high school graduates to begin meaningful and rewarding careers. I’m grateful to our city leaders for supporting this initiative, which will strengthen our fire department and allow us to keep pace with departments nationwide. Together, we’re investing in the future of our fire service and the safety of our city.”

Previously, our minimum hiring age was 21 and individuals had to wait three years after graduating high school to seek employment with our fire department. They either go to college, find other work, or work toward other vocational careers. Now, our recruiting efforts in area high schools will be more productive and allow us to access potential hires right out of high school. 

This further enhances our recruitment strategies as the CFD seeks to keep the number of applicants high in order to fill vacancies quicker. Other fire departments both regionally and nationally hire at 18, including Cleveland (TN) Fire Department, Bradley County Fire Rescue, Catoosa County Fire Department, Murfreesboro Fire Department, Oak Ridge Fire Department, Knoxville Fire Department, Birmingham Fire Department, Huntsville Fire Department, Mobile Fire Department, Atlanta Fire Department, Cobb County Fire Department, and Gwinnett County Fire Department. Big cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, and Los Angeles also hire at 18. Tennessee state law has always set the age of 18 to be the minimum age for a certified firefighter. Many of our current firefighters obtained experience with other departments prior to being hired by Chattanooga. 

This age change is one of the fire service’s ways to adapt to a different hiring climate and prevent missed opportunities to find quality candidates. It is just one of the initiatives our command staff has pushed for as they continue to look to the future of the department. Efforts are also underway to address our residency requirements and base pay.  “This is a positive, welcome change for the Chattanooga Fire Department and the surrounding community. It will greatly help our recruitment efforts,” said Fire Chief Phil Hyman.

Jack And Jill Of America, Inc. Greater Chattanooga Chapter Legends& Legacies Fundraiser

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Jack And Jill Of America, Inc. Greater Chattanooga Chapter Legends& Legacies Fundraiser
Chapter President Sandra Affare, PhD, Shay McCowan – Pioneering Innovator Honoree, Past President and Associate Member Latrice Currie, Chapter Editor Tenesha Irvin.

On Saturday, November 2, 2024 the Greater Chattanooga Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Incorporated hosted its 10th Anniversary Celebration in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites Hamilton Place Hotel. “Legends and Legacies, Honoring our Past, Celebrating Our Future!” was the theme. Local individuals who epitomize the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. mission of championing the needs of children and youth by creating positive change and opportunities for growth and development were honored with “Community Star” awards. The honorees of the evening were D’Wauna Young – Legendary Community Leader, Shay McCowan – Pioneering Innovator, and Wonjen Bagley – Enduring Advocate.

Mother members and chapter teens wore pink and blue gowns, the signature brand colors of the organization. It was truly a lovely evening of honoring The Greater Chattanooga Chapter’s past and celebrating the future. This year’s event was organized by Foundation Chair , Yolanda Spraggins-Wilson, MD. She and her committee did a fabulous job.

The Greater Chattanooga Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. greatly appreciates the contributions of community sponsors: Silver Sponsor – Galen East Pediatrics Yolanda R. Spraggins-Wilson, M.D.; Blue Sponsors – State Farm, Stephanie Sinkfield Dark, The Links, Incorporated Chattanooga Chapter, The Tenesha Irvin Team, and HOF Properties.

Chapter President Sandra Affare, PhD, D’Wauna Young – Legendary Community Leader Honoree, Past President and Associate Member Latrice Currie.

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is the premier organization aimed at enriching the lives of young children, bringing cultural awareness, community service and civic responsibility for African American families. The Greater Chattanooga Chapter has been very active in service to the Chattanooga Area community and is committed to improving the lives of ALL children.

Woodmore Elementary Students Remembered 8 Years After Tragic Bus Crash

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Woodmore Elementary Students Remembered 8 Years After Tragic Bus Crash
Woodmore Elementary School marks eight years since fatal bus crash.

Eight years ago, on Nov. 21, 2016, a devastating school bus crash claimed the lives of six young students from Woodmore Elementary School.

The victims–Cor’Dayja Jones, D’Myunn Brown, Keonte Wilson, Zyaira Mateen, Zyanna Harris, and Zoie Nash–were on their way home when the bus flipped on Talley Road, striking a tree. The crash also left several other children injured and deeply impacted families, friends and educators across the region.

Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly reflected on the heartbreaking event, saying, “Today, we pause to remember the tragedy that struck our community eight years ago–the Woodmore bus crash. We honor the six young lives taken too soon, cherishing the memories of their laughter, dreams, and the joy they brought to those who knew them. Let this solemn anniversary remind us of the importance of community, safety, and unwavering love for our children. Together, we continue to heal and hold one another close.”

The bus driver, Johnthony Walker, was transporting 37 students when the crash occurred. Investigators found that Walker was not on his designated route and was driving well over the 30-mph speed limit when the bus veered off the road. During the trial, prosecutors alleged he was also using his phone at the time. Walker claimed he swerved to avoid another vehicle but denied speeding or phone use.

Walker faced 34 charges, including six counts of vehicular homicide, and was ultimately convicted of six counts of criminally negligent homicide. He was sentenced to four years in prison. Walker later faced unrelated aggravated statutory rape charges, to which he pleaded guilty in 2020. He remains in prison, with his sentence scheduled to end in February 2025. His most recent request for parole was denied in January 2023.

Breaking the Silence: World AIDS Day 2024 Celebrates Progress Through Collective Action

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Breaking the Silence: World AIDS Day 2024 Celebrates Progress Through Collective Action

In commemoration of the 36th World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, communities worldwide are uniting under the theme “Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress.”

As the global health community reflects on decades of progress in HIV treatment and prevention, two remarkable women are sharing their stories to challenge stigma and inspire hope.

Ann, a 74-year-old retired principal from Connecticut, and Robin, a 58-year-old community health educator from Maryland, represent the changing face of HIV in America. Both diagnosed in 1998, their journeys highlight how far HIV treatment and social acceptance have come, while underscoring the work that still remains.

“When I was diagnosed, people living with HIV faced significant stigma among a number of other challenges,” says Ann, who believes she contracted the virus during a hysterectomy procedure.

After keeping her diagnosis private for more than two decades, she now speaks openly about her experience.  “While HIV stigma is still very much around today, times have changed and we have made progress. I now choose to be open about my diagnosis. My hope is that this will help others know they are not alone and will change the way the world views what it means to be living healthy with HIV.”

Robin’s story adds another dimension to the narrative. Diagnosed during prenatal care while expecting her third child, she initially struggled with the devastating news. Today, she works as a community health educator, helping others navigate their diagnoses.

“When the doctor told me I had HIV, I was devastated, and it was compounded by my pregnancy and the fear that my baby could be born with it as well,” Robin shares. “Fortunately, my daughter does not have HIV and I’m now using my experience to help those living in a similar situation come to terms with their diagnosis and live their lives to the fullest.”

Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, assistant secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, emphasizes the importance of this year’s commemoration: “We must all come together to remember the millions of people we have lost to HIV/AIDS. In their memory, we know we must take collective action to continually improve, resource, and further the reach of programs to the communities most and disproportionately impacted by HIV.”

The landscape of HIV treatment has transformed dramatically since the epidemic began over 40 years ago. What was once a deadly diagnosis is now, for many, a manageable chronic condition. Modern treatment options consider various factors, including aging well with HIV, medication interactions, and lifestyle considerations.

As World AIDS Day 2024 approaches, stories like Ann’s and Robin’s serve as powerful reminders of both progress made and challenges ahead. Their willingness to step out of the shadows not only helps reduce stigma but also demonstrates that living with HIV doesn’t define a person’s life or limit their potential to make a difference in their communities.

Through collective action and continued advocacy, the global community moves closer to its goals of preventing new HIV infections and ensuring comprehensive care for all people living with HIV.

The courage of individuals like Ann and Robin, who share their stories to help others, plays a crucial role in this ongoing journey toward a future where HIV stigma no longer casts a shadow over those affected by the virus.

New Glenwood Community Center Parking Lot Opens Ahead of Schedule

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New Glenwood Community Center Parking Lot Opens Ahead of Schedule
Jerome Martin, Glenwood Community Center manager, speaking at the ribbon cutting.

The Glenwood Community Center celebrated a significant milestone on Nov. 4 with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly completed parking lot. The project, originally scheduled for completion in March 2025, was finished five months ahead of schedule.

City officials, community leaders and department staff gathered at 2610 East 3rd St. to mark the occasion, with light refreshments served following the ceremony.

“Today, we celebrated a huge win with the ribbon cutting for the new Glenwood Community Center parking lot,” said Chris Brown, director of Community Centers for the city of Chattanooga. “This project was finished five months ahead of schedule thanks to the efficiency and coordination of our Public Works team and contractors. This is a win for the seniors, youth and families who rely on the center every day. Thank you to everyone who made this achievement possible.”

The comprehensive parking improvement project, which began on Sept. 16, includes: 36 standard parking spaces, two van-accessible spaces, newly constructed footpaths, renovations to existing parking facilities and striping of Glenwood Circle (Phase One).

Carol Hunter, administrator for the Community Development Department, expressed her enthusiasm.

“This is a win for the community,” she shared. “As a department and community, we’re excited to bring 36 new parking spaces accessible for residents who come to Glenwood Community Center. We wanted to ensure we completed this project for our dedicated seniors, who look forward to more space as they visit the center.”

To maintain uninterrupted service, the Community Development Department took several measures during construction. The center remained open for essential programs, and a shuttle service was provided in partnership with the Carver Community Center. Additionally, the Parks and Outdoors Department offered valuable support.

The successful completion of the project was made possible through the collaboration of various city departments and officials, including: Department of Community Development staff; Public Works staff; Mandee Green, Chief Operating Officer; Chris Brown, director of Community Centers; Carol Hunter, administrator for the Community Development Department and Jerome Martin, Glenwood Community Center manager.

The Howard School Opens First-of-its-Kind Clinic, Giving Students More Accessible Healthcare

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The Howard School Opens First-of-its-Kind Clinic, Giving Students More Accessible Healthcare

After nearly eight years of planning, The Howard School last week officially opened a new school-based health clinic to provide critical medical services to its students. The clinic, created in partnership with the Hamilton County Department of Education and Erlanger Health System, marks a significant milestone in the school’s efforts to improve healthcare access for its underserved population.

“What an amazing day for history to be made,” said Erlanger Community Health Center Board Chairman Ken Jones. “This is a key example of how collaboration empowers families in our community to thrive. Thank you to everyone that played a role in making this a reality.”

The Howard School-Based Health Clinic is the first of its kind in the region, offering a full suite of medical services typically found only at traditional walk-in clinics. Unlike most school health centers that can only provide basic first aid, this new facility has a nurse practitioner on-site to administer comprehensive care. Students can receive everything from routine check-ups to treatment for illnesses and injuries without having to leave campus.

“Having it right here, it’s accessible,” said Dr. LeAndrea Ware, principal of The Howard School. “That’s what I call a one-stop-shop–education, excellence and healthcare wrap-around support. We have it all right here at The Howard School.”

The clinic’s opening is especially impactful for the school’s student population, which the Tennessee Department of Education lists as one of the state’s highest-poverty areas. Access to affordable healthcare can be a significant challenge for many families in the community. By providing services directly on campus, the new clinic aims to remove barriers that might prevent students from receiving the care they need.

“With a school-based health center, we are able to provide a full medical visit,”  Angel Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Erlanger Community Health Center noted. “Usually, with your typical school clinics, you come in with something like a sore throat or ear ache, and you just try to make the child comfortable, call the parent to come pick them up and take them to see a medical provider.”

Dr. Ware added, “We also know that when they come into school in that condition, we know that learning is not going to be the first thing on their minds. Having the clinic here means students can get the treatment they require without missing valuable class time.”

In addition to basic medical services, the clinic will also offer on-site lab testing, allowing for faster diagnosis and treatment. Students’ family members will also be able to utilize the facility, expanding its impact beyond just the school’s enrollment of nearly 1,900 students.

“Our students live with family, and if it’s an issue with the student, it’s an issue with the household,” Dr. Ware explained.

The Howard School-Based Health Clinic is a cornerstone in the school’s strategic plan, Opportunity 2030, which aims to provide wraparound services and support for students. With the new medical facility now operational, school leaders are hopeful it will lead to improved attendance, better learning outcomes, and overall enhanced well-being for the entire Howard community.

“Today is the fruition of the reality of that dream, and we’re just so excited that so many people have invested in us and are ready to support full-speed ahead,” Dr. Ware said.

UTC’s Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building breaks ground

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UTC’s Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building breaks ground

The future home of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s School of Nursing, the Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building, broke ground on Monday, Nov. 4. 

Located at the corner of Palmetto and East 3rd streets, the new facility will allow for a 152% enrollment increase in the School of Nursing, which currently accepts approximately 50% of applicants and turns down eligible students due to space and class size limitations.  

“We are here today because of the outstanding nursing program at UTC that will provide a workforce badly needed in our community, in our state and in our region,” said UTC Chancellor Steven R. Angle–who noted that the school’s recent May 2024 Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates and the first cohort of accelerated BSN graduates achieved a 100% pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) on the first attempt, fulfilling the requirement for licensure as a registered nurse. “What a testament to the great faculty and staff of our nursing program who are supporting these students and challenging them to be the very best.” 

The groundbreaking was attended by faculty, staff, students, alums, building donors and numerous dignitaries–including UT System President Randy Boyd; U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann; Tennessee Sen. Bo Watson, chair of the Hamilton County Legislative Delegation and the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee; Rep. Patsy Hazlewood, chair of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee; and Rep. Yusuf Hakeem. 

The project’s anticipated cost of $77 million will be funded through a combination of donations and state resources, with a building campaign goal of $21 million. 

Dr. Chris Smith, director of the School of Nursing and UTC’s chief health affairs officer, shared the features of the new building. 

It will expand from its current Metro Annex location of 30,000 square feet to 90,000 square feet, Smith said, and house eight classrooms accommodating more than 400 students daily. The facility will include five task training spaces, eight standardized patient actor exam rooms, a specialized space for labor and delivery experiences, and a simulated ICU and emergency room. 

A dedicated hall of patient care rooms, similar to those in acute care facilities, will feature a simulated nurse’s station and a medication room. She said the building will increase debriefing spaces from two in the current facility to six.  

Currently, all clinical faculty work remotely due to space limitations, but the new building will provide office space for 96 faculty and staff members. Plans for the building also include conference rooms, a wellness room, student and faculty lounges, and an area for food services. 

“We have space for the establishment of a center for excellence in interprofessional education, which we envision will focus on bringing students from across the campus together, no matter their major,” she said. 

In October 2023, UTC received an $8 million gift from the Kennedy Foundation, Inc. to name the Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building after the parents of the current Kennedy Foundation trustees–Jim Kennedy III, Elizabeth Kennedy Spratlin and Molly Kennedy (’82). 

This will be the first building on campus to be named after an alumna. Dorothy (’82) received a degree in English while attending UTC at the same time as her daughter, Molly. 

This is the largest single gift in the School of Nursing’s history.  

Over 70% of UTC Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates remain in the Chattanooga area upon completing their degree. That percentage jumps to 83% for Family Nurse Practitioner graduates. 

For over a decade, the United States has experienced a severe nursing shortage that increased because of the pandemic.   The Dorothy and Jim Kennedy Health Sciences Building is projected to be completed in the fall of 2026. 

Exhibit: “Gateway to Freedom”

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Exhibit: “Gateway to Freedom”

Opens January 3rd Through February 2025

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation: “All persons held as slaves within any States…in rebellion against the United States,” it declared, “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” (The more than 1 million enslaved people in the loyal border states and in the Union-occupied parts of Louisiana and Virginia were not affected by this proclamation.) It also declared that “such persons [African American] of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States.” For the first time, Black soldiers could fight for the U.S. Army. 

When the Civil War broke out, abolitionists such as Frederick Douglass argued that the enlistment of Black soldiers would help the North win the war and would be a huge step in the fight for equal rights: “Once let the Black man get upon his person the brass letters, U.S.; let him get an eagle on his button, and a musket on his shoulder and bullets in his pocket,” Douglass said, “and there is no power on earth which can deny that he has earned the right to citizenship.” Douglass and other black leaders felt strongly that allowing blacks to fight for the Union in the Civil War would be the “Gateway to Freedom.” 

Through rare photos and interpretive text, the exhibit explores black soldiers both free and former slaves who fought valiantly as well as black leaders including men and women who played a significant role in the Union’s victory over the Confederacy. 

The exhibit is on display at the Chattanooga Civic Center Mountainside in the Event Hall, 701 Hooker Road, Chattanooga, TN 37410.  Call 423-331-8878 to schedule group visits and tours.  Tax deductible donations to the Mary Walker Historical & Education Foundation are appreciated and can be made at marywalkerfoundation.org. 

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