By Vivian Shipe
KNOXVILLE, TN — Nine businesses were recognized for their contributions in helping the city achieve its core values and helping to increase business partnerships with minority and women owned buses. The work of the radio station started by the great entertainer James Brown back in 1968 as a community leader and influencer was recognized by the City of Knoxville for its help in solving a huge city problem.
The city had reached a crisis situation. Retirements and the pandemic had affected the bus lines of Knoxville Area Transit; creating a shortage of drivers and causing several routes to be shut down. WJBE stepped in with an aggressive public awareness campaign resulting in more drivers being hired. Routes, especially in the inner city were then able to run again.
Mayor Indya Kincannon recognized the station and its owner Joe Armstrong in a ceremony held on the grounds of Lakeshore Park during its 6th Annual Diversity Business Enterprise Ceremony which was catered by one of Knoxville’s leading catering companies, Chef Mo’s.
