The Early Word: Dark side of Mongo’s Planet and alleged speakeasy tax fraud

Bianca Phillips By , Daily Memphian
Updated: September 11, 2026 6:16 AM CT | Published: September 11, 2026 6:16 AM CT Premium

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Morning, Memphis. It’s Friday, Sept. 11, and it’s been 25 years since the 9/11 attacks. At 8:46 a.m., the Memphis Fire Department will ring a bell to remember the lives lost that day and in the years since. 

The dark side of Mongo’s Planet: After Prince Mongo’s death, people are opening up with dark allegations about what went on inside his clubs.

Will Richardson’s charges: Shelby Commissioner Will Richardson’s arrest stems from alleged tax fraud associated with his Harbor Town bar

Three investigated in daycare death: Charges in 6-year-old Winter Jones’ death now rest with a grand jury.

Coming with receipts: Former DeSoto County Visitor’s Bureau board members are now backing up racism claims from the fired Lander’s Center director.

Shave your head, chase your dreams: That’s what local indie rocker Keer did.

Still blooming: Little Petals Chinese is popping up everywhere.

Cutting the cord: You can delete your FanDuel account.

Moot point: An NCAA case involving a former Memphis Tiger has been dismissed.

Next chapter: The Benjamin L. Hooks Library’s annual fall book sale is on — but without Friends of the Library.

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Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips

Bianca Phillips is a Northeast Arkansas native and longtime Memphian who’s worked in local journalism and PR for more than 20 years. In her days as a reporter, she covered everything from local government and crime to LGBTQ issues and the arts. She’s the author of “Cookin Crunk: Eatin’ Vegan in the Dirty South,” a cookbook of vegan Southern recipes.


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