Vivian Underwood Shipe

3 weeks ago | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

Ten years. That is how long Jackie Griffin has been feeding Knoxville with some of the best soul food in the South. For years, people have traveled from across the county and other cities to dine at her tables. Soon, they will travel downtown. From the small kitchen in her first restaurant on the east side of town to her current location at 1008 East Woodland, soon, Jackie’s Dream will open in the new Smokey’s Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee.

2 months ago | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

Knoxville, Tenn. — In 1921, there were several inventions and historical moments: among them, the pop-up toaster became a household item, Hitler became the leader of the German Party, the Tulsa Race Massacre occurred, and Albert Einstein won the Nobel Prize in Physics. There was also another momentous event—Mary Elizabeth Goins was born. Mark Twain said that growing old is a privilege that many people are denied.

Jan 16, 2025 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

As Go Places moves into Phase Two, the free program it offers to 18- to 24-year-old youths is expanding. The program, which works to remove any barrier for youths who may have been justice-involved, homeless, or aged out of foster care, is adding even more free services to help them get on their feet and become successful citizens. Training is one area of change.

Jan 3, 2025 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

It is a new year. From the White House to the local courthouse, change is happening across America. Innovative ideas are needed, and so is strong leadership. In Knoxville, there are many strong Black leaders; those with integrity, courage, and a boldness to speak stand and speak up for the needs of African Americans, those willing to tell the stories, to speak truth to power, to lead as a servant leader.

Nov 20, 2024 | tntribune.com | Vivian Underwood Shipe

Chrystal Armstong Brown was named interim CEO of United Way of Greater Knoxville, effective Nov. 11. Brown previously held the position of chief impact officer with the organization. No stranger to leadership, she has served as vice president of program development for the Emerald Youth Foundation. Born in Columbia Tenn., a minister and member of the 2025 Leadership Knoxville class, Brown will have the opportunity to develop her vision of Knoxville.