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Council approves honorary renaming of Lakeside Street as Big John Tate Corner
Summary
The council approved a resolution to give an honorary name to a block of Lakeside Street honoring heavyweight boxing champion Big John Tate; family, community members and a documentary producer spoke in support.
The Knoxville City Council approved a resolution to add the honorary name "Big John Tate Corner" to Lakeside Street at its northern intersection with Magnolia Avenue.
William Monette, a documentary producer who grew up in East Knoxville, urged the council to approve the naming and recounted Tate’s career and local ties, saying the champion "brought it back to Knoxville." Monette told council he had completed a documentary about Tate and said the street renaming could help preserve Tate’s story and inspire local youth: "Big John's story inspired me to do my best."
Council members Testermier, Mackenzie and Parker added their support on the record; Mackenzie said Tate’s professional record included 34 wins and 3 losses with 23 knockouts and noted that former Mayor Randy Tyree once presented Tate with keys to the city. Council members said an unveiling ceremony will be held Monday at 4:30 and that a documentary screening and memorabilia exhibit will run at the Beck Center following the dedication.
Ending: The honorary name passed by voice vote. Council invited the public to the unveiling and related events.
