Memphis Magazine - August 2020

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Memphis • THE CITY MAGAZINE • W W W.MEMPHISMAGAZINE.COM

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Left to right: Stephen Huddleston, MD; Steve Charles, MD; Mohammad Rafieetary, OD; Philip Ames, MD; Jessica Haynes, OD; Paul Runge, MD; Adam Pflugrath, MD; and Jonathan Brugger, MD

The Charles Retina Institute, founded in 1984, is proud to serve the citizens of Memphis and the Mid-South with adult and pediatric retinal medical and surgical consultations daily. We specialize in the treatment of retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinopathy of prematurity, macular surgery World Renown for Diseases as well as other retinal and vitreous problems. Our physicians are true leaders and authors on retinal surgery. ofOur Vitreous and Retina textbook, Vitreous Microsurgery, currently in its fifth edition, has been translated into six languages and has been a leading source of retina surgery education worldwide since Dr. Charles’ first edition in 1981. In recognition of our global leadership position, we serve as a site for dozens of studies that will provide the next Steve Charles, M.D. generation of medical and surgical care. We are committed to providing the best level of retina care available 1432 Kimbrough Road Jorge Calzada, and toM.D. have the top medical technology for our patients. We are available for medical and surgical consults Germantown, TN 38138 901.767.4499 • charlesretina.com and second opinions. Mohammad Rafieetary, O.D.

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V O L X LV N O 4 | AU G US T 2020

UP FRONT 10 I N T H E

BEGINNING

~ by anna traverse fogle

FEATURES 12 A C T I V I S M

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Memphis (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $18 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 © 2020. Telephone: 901-521-9000. For subscription info, please call 901-521-9000. Subscription customer service mailing address is Memphis magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101. All rights reserved. • Periodicals Postage Paid at Memphis, TN. Postmasters: send address changes to Memphis, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Memphis’ historic neighborhoods infuse our community with vitality and vibrance. Meet the longtime residents who have made Soulsville, Cooper-Young, and Vollintine-Evergreen the instantly recognizable places they are.

~ by maya smith WHO’S WHO

Our annual look at the city’s movers, shakers, and other news-makers. ARTS

Museums Meet the Challenge Cultural attractions hindered by social distancing aim to remain relevant.

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~ by jon w. sparks MUSIC

Singing Truth to Power Protest songs have been part of the Memphis music scene for more than a century.

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~ photography by maya smith and noah stewart

COVER ILLUSTRATION BY MIA SAINE

Marching for Black Lives

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~ by alex greene SPORTS

The Ghosting of Memphis Sports

What do we cheer when no games are played? ~ by frank murtaugh FAITH

“Action Is in Our Name” MICAH brings people together to change Memphis for the better.

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~ by chris mccoy HEALTH

Big, Loud, Quiet, Calm

Looking outside — and within — during trying times. ~ by shara clark

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EDUCATION

Get Schooled A guide to finding the right education environment for your child.

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DINING

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Rewriting the Recipe The Memphis restaurant industry may be down, but it’s certainly not out, as owners introduce creative ways to retain customers — and keep them safe.

~by samuel x. cicci

119 C I T Y

DINING

128 L A S T

STAND

The city’s most extensive dining listings.

Building a Better Memphis Insightful locals tell us what our city needs in order to thrive — for everyone.

SPECIAL SECTIONS 60

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81 2 0 2 0 C O L L E G E 116 S C E N E D I N I N G

GUIDE

BIZ 901

Commercial Development in the Age of COVID The pandemic has put the brakes on some endeavors and let others go full speed ahead. ~ by jon w. sparks THE OFFICE FINANCE

AUGUS T 2020 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • 7

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Memphis THE CI T Y M AGAZI N E

It’s the perfect app for financial check-ups. Time is precious to medical specialists. That’s why our Triumph Business App is the perfect way to quickly check in with your finances between patient check-ups. Use it to monitor transactions, transfer funds, and even pay bills. It’s available for download at triumphbank.com/businessmobilebanking

General Excellence Grand Award Winner City and Regional Magazine Association 2007, 2008, 2010, 2014

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CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF anna traverse fogle EXECUTIVE EDITOR michael finger MANAGING EDITOR frank murtaugh SENIOR EDITORS shara clark, jon w. sparks ASSOCIATE EDITOR samuel x. cicci CONTRIBUTORS jackson baker, julia baker, jesse davis,

michael donahue, alex greene, chris mccoy, toby sells, maya smith EDITORIAL ASSISTANT› matthew harris CALENDAR EDITOR julie ray

4 EDITOR jon w. sparks ASSOCIATE EDITOR samuel x. cicci CONTRIBUTOR david waddell

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR brian groppe PRODUCTION OPERATIONS DIRECTOR margie neal SENIOR ART DIRECTOR carrie beasley ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers GRAPHIC DESIGNER bryan rollins

Welcome to Triumph. Let’s talk growth.

PHOTOGRAPHERS anna traverse fogle, maya smith,

jon w. sparks, noah stewart ILLLUSTRATOR mia saine

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SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE sloane patteson taylor ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES kelli dewitt, chip googe, Memphis Magazine’s

michelle musolf

FACE

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING MANAGER deshaune mcghee

THE 2020

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CONTROLLER ashley haeger CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER jeffrey a. goldberg DIGITAL SERVICES DIRECTOR kristin pawlowski CIRCULATION & ACCOUNTING MANAGER lynn sparagowski MARKETING & CIRCULATION COORDINATOR kalena mckinney SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR molly willmott

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PUBLISHER EMERITUS kenneth neill

august 2020

Miles C. Moore, DDS Creating beautiful smiles.

725 W. BROOKHAVEN CIRCLE MEMPHIS, TN 38117 901.761.2210 / BeautifulSmiles.org

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IN THE BEGINNING | by anna traverse fogle

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eturning to a place after even the briefest absence can afford the opportunity to meet it all over again. I love traveling, but at least in part because I love coming home. Since March, I’ve not had many moments of return because I haven’t been doing much departing. Most weeks, in this summer of COVID-19, my orbit is confined to my Midtown neighborhood and this magazine’s Downtown office space.

Today, my husband and I left the state of increasing support for the Black Lives Matter Tennessee for the first time since he returned movement as by the pandemic. We tackle the from work one Thursday evening in late place of sports now; we bring you into several March. (Cameron teaches at a law school out vibrant local neighborhoods, cities within of state.) In what I guess passes for a summer the city. And in Inside Memphis Business, we mini-break in 2020, we wanted to check out discuss how the local business community is a sunflower field on the West Memphis side weathering the storm. You’ll also find a photo of Big River Crossing. We brought the dog. essay documenting the summer’s Black Lives We brought snacks. When we got into the Matter protests on Memphis streets. car, he announced that he had prepared a Longtime readers of Memphis may notice playlist of songs about the that our Who’s Who secsun, since we were off to tion looks different this year. find sunflowers. (A quintesWe’ve included more notasentially Cameron thing to ble, interesting, inspiring do if ever there were one.) Memphians than ever before The tallest sunf lowers — and instead of rows upon loomed taller than us, crerows of tiny black-and-white ating their own shade on headshots, you’ll see some of the dry, cracking soil bethose Memphians in full colSunflowers with Memphis skyline neath, shotgun shells scator, freed from oval thumbtered through the rows of nails. We wanted Who’s hardy blooms, bees feasting and resting on Who to look and feel more like the Memphis the flowers’ intricate, concentric faces. Two we write about, live in, and love, and we hope other little groups weaved slowly through the that this year’s additions and redesign help acheat, posing for photos, little kids’ patience complish that. melting. The sunflowers mostly turned their At first, planning this issue seemed like a faces toward Downtown Memphis, standing strange, somewhat daunting task — how do tall like an alternative skyline. Cosmopolitan we put together a City Guide, we asked ourskyscrapers, if you happen to be a bee. selves, when our collective habits continue We snapped a few photos — sunflowers to be altered by the pandemic and when so with a backdrop of the Hernando de Soto many are hurting, whether under the weight Bridge and the Pyramid; weird bugs; Lily of economic hardship, illness, loss and grief, Bear’s sweet furry face peeking from between or in too many cases, all of the above. thick, gnawed-on leaves — then returned But when we shifted our perspective a to the car for iced coffee and the 10-minute quarter-turn — going away just long enough drive home. We had received what we came to come home again — we saw that there for: a shift in perspective, a reintroduction to could hardly be a better time to deliver a City Tennessee, to Memphis, to home. Guide built for exactly this strange, shifting Hopes of a summertime reprieve from summer. One that shows Memphis as it is, and COVID-19 are proving to be unfounded, at as it might be. This city of ours knows how to least in Memphis. In planning this issue, our face challenges head-on, how to model transeditorial team thought long and hard about formation. We know how to communicate our how best to assemble our annual City Guide anger and our hope through art that touches in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, with the whole world. well warranted restrictions changing the Even or especially in troubled times, ways Memphians and visitors might enjoy Memphis’ most distinctive facets shine. our town. We’ve adapted, like so many of you. From the peaceful protests on our streets You’ll find a story about the creative ways to the insistent music on our speakers, this local restaurateurs are pivoting to keep pa- city is a place where, in our best moments, trons both delighted and safe. We explore change is not just possible but welcomed. the long history of protest music that’s come In this devastating, hopeful, seismic, refrom Memphis in an article inspired by a sum- arranging, scary, strange year, there’s no mer defined as much by mass protests and place I’d rather keep coming home to.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANNA TRAVERSE FOGLE

Ask Questions. Get Answers!

Leaving to Come Home

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We salute the masked heroes of Memphis. Memphis is a city of heroes. A place where tenacious healthcare workers unfailingly answer the call. Where caregivers and first responders bravely face adversity day after day. Where compassionate business owners and service industry workers keep our city moving. And where our selfless citizens have rallied to the cause of flattening the curve. And though the rules of engagement in this fight continue to change, each day is an opportunity for all of us to improve the lives of others. Together, we will make a difference. This will be our city’s finest moment.

methodisthealth.org/MaskedHeroes

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PHOTOGRAPH BY MAYA SMITH

ACTIVISM Marching for Black Lives Memphis Takes to the Streets

P H O T O G R A P H S B Y M AYA S M I T H AND NOAH STEWART

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n May 25th, in Minneapolis, George Perry Floyd Jr. was killed by the weight of a police officer’s knee on his neck. By May 27th, protests were being organized nightly in Memphis. Despite the appearance of police in riot gear and the National Guard in armored vehicles, the protests in Memphis remained peaceful. After a window was broken in one Downtown Black-owned business, Winfield’s Shoes and Accessories, activists raised funds in a drive organized by Keedran Franklin to repair the damage. Since then, protests have spread to Midtown and the suburbs as activists advance a nationwide reckoning about racism, policing, and injustice. These images, beautifully captured by Maya Smith and Noah Stewart, help tell the story. — Anna Traverse Fogle

“We see the violence of injustice, we see the violence of racism against Black people, Latinos, First Nations, and people of color. We know this violence is a threat to all humanity in this yet to be perfect union.”

above: At a June 8th rally organized by the Poor People’s Campaign at the site of the 1866 Memphis Massacre, Rev. Regina Clarke led a prayer, then called on the country to stop “all forms of systemic racism.”

— Rev. Regina Clarke

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“If we walk around with a hammer of mass incarceration, everything looks like a nail of Black criminality. #AllBlackLivesMatter”

right: “I wanted my pictures to show the emotion that many African Americans and allies were feeling in the wake of George Floyd’s death,” says photographer Noah Stewart. This image, taken in early June, shows a Memphis police officer addressing a crowd of protesters.

— Rev. Earle J. Fisher @Pastor_Earle

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NOAH STEWART

below: In early June, protesters gathered nightly in Downtown Memphis to speak out against the persistent, systemic failures that resulted in the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many more Black people through the years.

“Black lives matter because we built this city and this country, but still this country wants to disrespect our lives.” — Frank Johnson, Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 13

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NEIGHBORHOODS

community with vitality and vibrance. Meet the longtime residents who have made Soulsville, Cooper-Young, and Vollintine-Evergreen the instantly recognizable places they are. B Y M AYA S M I T H

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emphis neighborhoods are rich, each with its own unique history. That history spills over into the present and the future, laying foundations and setting things in motion. Musical genius, civil rights milestones, and resident-led change define the histories of Soulsville, Cooper-Young, and Vollintine-Evergreen. Determined to revitalize and uplift their neighborhoods, residents take collective action to create the communities they desire.

clockwise from top: The I ♥ Soulsville mural, Alex’s Tavern on Jackson Ave., and the Cooper-Young overpass featuring replicas of neighborhood buildings.

SOULSVILLE

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isitors to Soulsville are welcomed by the brightly painted “I Love Soulsville” mural at the corner of East McLemore and Mississippi. Rebecca Hutchinson, who’s lived in the neighborhood for nearly two decades, was one of the residents who spearheaded that project with local artists. When Hutchinson and her husband were looking to move from their Midtown home in 2002, they wanted to relocate somewhere nearby. “We first looked at Midtown,” she says. “Then we wandered over into the Soulsville area. I actually kind of grew up in that area. I went to church there at Metropolitan Baptist Church. That was my family church. So the community was already very familiar to me.” The couple was sold on the neighborhood and its potential, deciding to move into a historic house on Fountain View right across from Memphis’ only Historically Black College and University (HBCU), LeMoyne-Owen College.

CREDITS: TOP PHOTO BY CLEWISLEAKE | DREAMSTIME / BOTTOM TWO PHOTOS BY MAYA SMITH

Memphis’ historic neighborhoods infuse our

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CREDITS: TOP PHOTO BY CLEWISLEAKE | DREAMSTIME / CENTER LEFT PHOTO BY ALEX SHANSKY / MEMPHIS TOURISM / RIGHT PHOTO BY MAYA SMITH

top: The Soulsville USA mural by Lawrence Matthews features Ida B. Wells and famous faces of Memphis music. above: Patrice Bates Thompson is the owner of the Four Way Restaurant, a Memphis institution.

“When we first moved in, Stax was under construction, as well as the town center,” she says. “We saw that there was progress occurring in the neighborhood and knew that it was really on the upswing. We felt it would be a good investment of our time and effort.” Since then, Hutchinson says she’s seen a lot of progress in the neighborhood, “but we still have a ways to go.” She has been helping with that progress through her involvement with the neighborhood association and previously as the site director for Soulsville under a grant from Community LIFT (Leveraging Investments For Transformation). “I was able to work alongside my neighbors in helping to build their capacity,” she says. “We did a lot of projects in the neighborhood.” Those projects included the “I Love Soulsville” mural and other neighborhood art, as well as the renovation of the basketball courts and walking trail at Chandler Park. Hutchinson also helped facilitate a resident-drafted three-year Soulsville revitalization plan, which began in 2017 and wraps up this year. A key focal point of that plan is cultural tourism. “The idea is to capitalize on the history of our neighborhood and to showcase the historic landmarks here,” Hutchinson says. Another piece of the plan is economic development, with the goal of creating jobs for residents in the neighborhood.

“It’s vibrant,” Hutchinson says of Soulsville. “There’s a lot of vitality and energy. There’s also a lot of synergy going on in the community. A plethora of services and nonprofits have projects going on, but we’re all neighbors working toward the same goal: a better neighborhood. We are working to rebuild our neighborhood ourselves.” Hutchinson believes the residents of the neighborhood take ownership of their community. “That’s a very important aspect of Soulsville, USA,” she says. “We feel that we have the resources, talent, and expertise in our neighborhood to make the type of changes and progress that we need.” One of Hutchinson’s favorite aspects of her neighborhood are the people. “I love the people of Soulsville and their neighborliness — helping one another, knowing each other. Because we have people who’ve lived in the neighborhood for 50 or 60 years in addition Rebecca Hutchinson, to new folks, so we reach Soulsville resident out to each other and we get to know each other.” The residents of Soulsville are friendly and active, she says. “People are always out and doing things. People walk everywhere in Soulsville.You see activity going on all the time in our neighborhood. I love the folk who go down and keep the corner, where the iconic Soulsville mural is, clean and looking nice, and the residents who walk up and down Trigg picking up trash. There’s pride and that’s because of the

“We feel that we have the resources, talent, and expertise in our neighborhood to make the type of changes and progress that we need.”

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NEIGHBORHOODS

“This is an incredibly rich neighborhood. I learn something new about it every day.”

COOPER-YOUNG

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espite the clouds overhead warning of a rain shower, many pedestrians — some leading dogs, others pushing strollers — passed by the Cooper-Young gazebo. A man sat inside the gazebo intently reading a book. Marked by a rainbow crosswalk, the intersection of Cooper and Young captures the spirit of the neighborhood. Local restaurants, bars, and coffee shops abound. It’s where friends and neighbors run into each other and shoot the breeze. And once a year, for the past 33 years, it’s where crowds from all over the city flock for the annual Cooper-Young Festival.

CREDITS: TOP LEFT PHOTO BY BLAKE BILLINGS | DREAMSTIME / BOTTOM TWO PHOTOS BY MAYA SMITH

people and value they place on this neighborhood.” That pride is rooted in the neighborhood’s rich history. “How many neighborhoods can boast of an international museum and an HBCU right next door to each other?” says Hutchinson. “We have churches that are over 100 years old. We have thriving businesses that have been in the community for decades like the Four Way Grill, which is historical in itself.” Moving forward, Hutchinson says she hopes for a Soulsville that has more amenities and opportunities for those living in the community. “Even under good conditions, it’s a neighborhood that has traditionally been disinvested in. It was once a very thriving business community, particularly on McLemore. Those businesses dissipated. I want to see a resurgence of that.” She also wants to see more jobs for residents. “I want to see more enterprises so that dollars can be spent here and stay here,” she says. “I want to see vibrant businesses, more restaurants, maybe a coffee shop. I want to see amenities that people in the neighborhood can take advantage of and patronize, but also earn a living. I want people to be able to work in the neighborhood they live in.” Zach Rogers, who runs the Memphis Rox climbing gym at 879 East McLemore, has helped to create some job opportunities for Soulsville residents since the gym opened in 2018. “We try to make sure our staff Zach Rogers, represents the neighborhood we serve Memphis Rox manager and they’ve probably been our greatest asset,” says Rogers. “I’ve learned a ton. We’ve just been completely blown away by what Memphis as a whole is missing out on. This is an incredibly rich neighborhood. I learn something new about it every day.” Rogers says there is a “familial feel about residents” of Soulsville, but first you have to earn the trust of the community. “One thing that I really appreciate is that it feels welcoming and kind. Once you’ve shown yourself to be true and that your intentions are altruistic, valid, and real, and that you’re not just going to disappear, you’re a part of the family.” That family feeling is what is most striking about Soulsville, Rogers says. “A lot of neighborhoods you go into, especially suburbs, it feels like you’re there and existing, but you’re not part of something.

And Soulsville is the opposite. Here you have to earn the trust, but once you are a part of the community, you are fully embraced and part of something.” Rogers says he’s seen this firsthand with the gym. “When we first opened, there was a lot of crime. We were broken into and things were being stolen. But employees who live in the community were able to teach us about the neighborhood, as well as the members of the community about what we represent. And eventually it stopped. It feels like that’s because we were an unknown commodity that popped up overnight and people didn’t know how long we’d be here. But now, we’re accepted as a staple in the community.” Rogers says he wants to emulate what Stax Records was in the past: a meeting point for people from all over the city. “I’ve known about a lot of these artists my whole life, but didn’t realize this was the focal point for a lot of their creativity until recently. I heard about Aretha Franklin and all the amazing artists that have come through here. It’s special to be in a location where so many musical legends congregated. That’s what we see ourselves trying to do. We want to create an accepting meeting spot where people can come together again. I feel like the neighborhood will return to that rich location once again soon.” Founded in 1960 by sister and brother Estelle Axton and Jim Stewart, Stax has always been an integral part of the neighborhood, says Jeff Kollath, executive director of the Stax Museum of Soul. “Soulsville is known to the world because of Stax Records, but of course, Stax Records would be nothing without the people of Soulsville,” says Kollath. “There’s a reason Stax is here and it wouldn’t have the same impact if it was in any other location. We’re on sacred, hallowed ground here at the corner of College and McLemore. It really is the power of place.” Today, Kollath says the museum and the academy strive to bring Stax into the twenty-first century by “providing opportunities to people to learn music and potentially take musical skills they’re learning into the world. For us, it goes back to the core tenants of what Stax Records was all about — making sure music is accessible.”

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left: Cheryl and Corey Mesler have owned Burke’s Book Store since 2000. Inside, a store display includes a photo of the original store when it was located on Main Street. below: Andy Ashby, founder of Memphis Made Brewing, relaxes on the spacious porch of his home in Cooper-Young.

But the area had quite a different feel 30 years ago, according to longtime Cooper-Young resident Emily Bishop. “The nicest business in the Cooper-Young intersection when I first moved here was a motorcycle repair shop,” she says. “Where Café Olé is now was a woodworking shop. Where the Deli is, there was a head shop, but not the kind most people think. I’m talking about car engine heads. It was very industrial and kind of transitional. My friends thought I was crazy for moving here.” Today, the streets near that intersection are lined with a record store, a yoga studio, a couple of coffee shops, and a dozen other independent businesses, such as Burke’s Book Store. Just a few steps from the gazebo, inside the store, owners Cheryl and Corey Mesler are tucked away from the afternoon shower. The bookstore, which opened in 1875, was originally on Main Street. The Meslers bought the business in 2000, becoming only the third owners Corey Mesler, Burke’s Book Store since the Burke family. Thirteen years ago, the store moved from Poplar to its current home at 936 South Cooper, where the couple says they will likely stay for a while. Before the Meslers moved the store, Cheryl says, “We were really having a tough time and I thought we were going to have to close. Then we were shown the spot on Cooper and we just loved it. We had already been living in the neighborhood since 1993. I feel like we’re really lucky to be in this spot.” Like Bishop, Corey says when they first moved to the area, “there wasn’t a whole lot else here. There weren’t all the restaurants and shops. It was just starting to be built up. It started slowly for us here, but we knew it was the place we wanted to be. We could foresee it was about to be a really hot neighborhood.” Now, because of the foot traffic, Corey says the neighborhood is a perfect location for the store. The area has always been “funky and arty” Cheryl says. “It’s still got its weirdness. That’s the part we like

about it. It sort of has a bohemian nature and I hope it’ll stay like that.” Corey adds, “The eccentricity of the neighborhood and our customers matches ours. You’re not going to have at another store what we have at our store. It’s going to be reflective of what the residents in that community want.” Burke’s is just one of a few dozen locally, independently owned businesses within Cooper-Young.

CREDITS: PHOTOS BY MAYA SMITH

“The eccentricity of the neighborhood and our customers matches ours. You’re not going to have at another store what we have at our store. It’s going to be reflective of what the residents in that community want.”

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Another is Memphis Made Brewing Company, which sits at the edge of the neighborhood in a former pie factory building. The company’s founder, Andy Ashby, lives about a mile away in a 100-year-old house. “I walk to this 100-year-old school from my 100-year-old house with a front porch,” says Ashby. “I know all my neighbors. It’s like Mayberry in Midtown. People think of Cooper-Young as kind of edgy and out there, which it is, but it’s also like a small town, or a little village. We have our own little newspaper, and our own government with the neighborhood and business associations. We have our own churches, schools, businesses, restaurants. One could conceivably treat it like a small town and never leave.” One of Ashby’s favorite qualities of Cooper-Young is the neighborhood’s walkability. “I know this sounds nerdy, but I’ve always been fascinated with urban design,” he says. “I like the idea of being able to walk to bars and restaurants from my house. I grew up in Germantown and we didn’t really have that.” When Ashby was looking for a house in 2004, he says one of the requirements was a front porch. “My real estate agent found a 100-year-old house with a front porch and that kind of clenched it for me.” During the pandemic, he’s spent a lot of time on that front porch. “You’re just able to see people. You sit here and read a book and watch the neighbors go by.” He describes Cooper-Young as a “laid-back, come-as-you-are” neighborhood. Another thing that attracted him to the neighborhood was its accommodating and open nature. “There are a lot of people from many different walks of life.” People are really active in the neighborhood, he notes. “It’s got a lot of stuff going on and that’s just because neighbors are really involved. Things are getting done by neighbors. People aren’t just paying their homeowners association and having things taken care of. They’re getting their hands dirty and actively working to make things better. Sometimes you move into the neighborhood and you’re just an observer, but this is a hands-on neighborhood.” Bishop is one of those active residents. She’s been heavily involved in the neighborhood for about three decades now. “My neighborhood involvement started with our neighborhood newspaper, the Lamplighter,” she says. “Shortly after I moved into the neighbor—Andy Ashby, hood, I got a little four-page newspaper that was Memphis Made Brewery delivered to my doorstep and it said, ‘Can you help?’ So I contacted them and I ended up doing quite a bit with the newspaper. It was a unique experience just because it was a great way to share information and create a feeling of connectedness in the neighborhood.” As a member of the neighborhood association, Bishop says her involvement progressed from there, volunteering in a variety of ways and helping with events such as the Cooper-Young four-mile run and the annual festival. Over the years, Bishop says she’s seen the neighborhood change in many ways, but it has still maintained its quirky character. “One thing we’re seeing,” Bishop says, “is more young people moving into the neighborhood. We have young professionals coming in and they’re bringing a whole different vitality to the neighborhood, where when I moved here it was a bunch of older people. There were a lot of artists and musicians because they didn’t mind living in a neighborhood that was transitional, which it was when I first moved here.” One of the few things Bishop misses about the neighborhood, though, is the abundance of art galleries. “At one time we had six art galleries because there were commercial spaces that were really cheap and we had all of these young emerging artists who had gallery space,” she says. “There was always live music in the galleries. I feel so fortunate that I lived through that time in Cooper-Young when there was so much creativity. Looking toward the future, I just hope that Cooper-Young continues to help the core of Memphis stay strong and livable.”

“It’s like Mayberry in Midtown. People think of Cooper-Young as kind of edgy and out there, which it is, but it’s also like a small town, or a little village. One could conceivably treat it like a small town and never leave.”

VOLLINTINE-EVERGREEN

B

eneath a canopy of trees, the V&E Greenline runs nearly two miles through the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood (VECA). It’s a slice of nature in the middle of a historic urban area. Mary Wilder, who’s lived in the neighborhood just west of Rhodes College since 1974, says the greenline is “sort of a hidden gem” in VECA. “A lot of people have forgotten it’s here, but it’s one of the neighborhood’s elements that make it so walkable. You can go on a walk on the greenline any day or night and you’ll see everyone — all ages, all races, all walks of life, walking dogs, walking their kids, and adult children walking their parents.” The V&E Greenline is one example of how the neighborhood “takes things into our own hands,” Wilder says. The route of the greenline was once a working railroad line until it was abandoned in 1980. Litter and blight soon followed. Then in 1995, residents came together to purchase the right-of-way for the land using funds from a Pew Charitable Trust grant. Wilder says the residents are always focusing on an “issue du jour” from blockbusting to historic preservation, and it was VECA’s autonomous initiative that first intrigued her. “I decided to stay here because within the first month or so, a neighborhood newsletter arrived on my doorstep. I had been a community organizer before and I thought it was pretty cool that the neighborhood has its own newsletter. Which still comes out once a week now, in fact.” For the first ten years Mary Wilder, VECA resident of living in the neighborhood, Wilder considered herself just a resident. Then in the mid-’80s, she became the editor of the newsletter. Her involvement continued into the ’90s when the neighborhood wanted to do a National Register of Historic Places nomination, which is essentially a listing of every house in the neighborhood and its historical significance. “We were experiencing sort of a public relations letdown,” Wilder says. “People were referring to us as a neighborhood with old houses. There was a lot of disinvestment in the ’90s. Suburban movement was rampant. We decided to define ourselves as a walkable neighborhood with solid homes built in the 1920s. We didn’t have giant homes. We were where the mailman and the teacher lived.” Wilder, along with seven other volunteers, surveyed the streets of the neighborhood one by one, until the group had successfully listed close to 3,500 houses. “We’re that middle-class working neighborhood

“I think our neighborhood works hard to maintain inclusivity. That’s the only way to thrive. The elasticity of life is being able to accept lots of different people and not just boxing yourself in. A forest wouldn’t be a forest if it just had one type of tree.”

CREDITS: TOP LEFT PHOTO BY CLEWISLEAKE | DREAMSTIME

NEIGHBORHOODS

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above: Neighbors gather outside the VollintineEvergreen Community Association headquarters. left: Rocky Kasaftes is the proud owner of Alex’s Tavern, opened by his family on Jackson in 1953.

CREDITS: TOP AND BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTOS BY MAYA SMITH / BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO BY MICHAEL FINGER

far left: St. John’s Orthodox Church is a VECA landmark.

and the flavor of the neighborhood has always maintained itself,” Wilder says of VECA over the years. “I would say we haven’t really significantly changed. Crosstown reintroduced our neighborhood to people who forgot we were here. So we’re getting more artist types. But we’re by and large where the teacher buys her first house.” Wilder says the residents “pride ourselves in being accepting.” This accepting attitude has always been a part of the neighborhood’s history. When schools were becoming integrated in the 1950s, the neighborhood took charge of how it would transition, Wilder says. As a result, the neighborhood voluntarily desegregated two schools. “It was a very conscious community making a conscious attempt to say ‘we’re going to be integrated.’” The neighborhood remains diverse today. “Given our American culture, diversity is something we have to work at every day,” says Wilder. “We’re bombarded in society with negativity that works to divide us. I think our neighborhood works hard to maintain inclusivity. That’s the only way to thrive. The elasticity of life is being able to accept lots of different people and not just boxing yourself in. A forest wouldn’t be a forest if it just had one type of tree.” On the northern edge of the neighborhood, Alex’s Tavern is “home to a lot of people,” says Rocky Kasaftes, owner of the bar. “It’s off the beaten path,

but it’s turned out to be the right spot.” The bar has been at 1445 Jackson since 1953. It’s the oldest tavern in Memphis owned by its original family. Kasaftes took over the tavern in 1978 from his dad after he passed away. Kasaftes’ father grew up on Jackson right down the street and wanted to create a place where his friends could gather, he says. The younger Kasaftes says his earliest memories of the neighborhood are of him going to the bar with his dad. “He would put me to work, have me mop the floor, scrape gum off tables, and do other odd jobs.” The neighborhood was very multi-ethnic in the 1950s and ’60s, Kasaftes says. “There were Greek, Italian, Polish, Jewish, and Black residents. There was Little Flower Church and of course, everyone went there. All different kinds of people mingled there.” Kasaftes says when his dad first opened the bar, there were “tons” of other businesses on the street, but over the years those businesses faded away. “The neighborhood’s changed, but it’s coming back,” Kasaftes says. “There have been ups and downs, but we’ve always just stayed steady. People told me for years I wouldn’t make it here. But I’ve always been stubborn thinking, ‘It’ll work. I’ll make it.’ With Crosstown Concourse, it’s like a full-blown renaissance in this neighborhood. It’s going to take a while. But it’s happening.” A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 19

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ILLUSTRATION BY DREAMSTIME

JEN ANDREWS

After graduating from Rhodes in 2006, Andrews became the first official employee of the Shelby Farms Park Alliance and in 2016 was named CEO of the renamed Shelby Farms Park Conservancy. She led branding and communications efforts before assuming leadership of the $75 million capital campaign for park improvements, including the Shelby Farms Greenline, Woodland Discovery Playground, and Heart of the Park expansions.

WHO’S WHO

SHELLY ANSLEY

Our annual guide to our city’s movers, shakers, and other news-makers.

G

lancing over the list, you may not recognize all their names, but you know what they have done for Memphis. These are the men and women who have shaped our city in countless ways — the business leaders, developers, politicians, chefs, artists, musicians, athletes, and so many others whose work defines us and enriches our lives. Putting such a list together in the summer of 2020 — in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic — presented special challenges and special opportunities. With few exceptions, everyone on this list has had to adapt in some way to the “new normal.” But Memphis has endured hardships before, and we will prevail, thanks to the spirit, creativity, and resolve of the people we spotlight on these pages.

For almost 40 years, Ansley and her brother, David, have owned Wang’s Mandarin House, a frequent winner for “Best Chinese” in this magazine’s annual Readers Restaurant Poll. Originally from Taiwan, Ansley has built a loyal following for the restaurant on Park Avenue that offers both authentic Chinese cuisine and more contemporary Chinese-American dishes. “We are probably the only restaurant in town that offers both,” says Ansley.

WARD ARCHER The ad man turned music mogul’s major

current fixation is protecting Memphis’ famous water. In 1990, Archer oversaw the creation of Archer Malmo, Tennessee’s largest and most successful advertising shop. After stepping back as CEO, he created Music + Arts studio to be a destination for recording artists and film sound mixing, and Archer Records to bring the best of Memphis’ contemporary music to the world. Archer’s most lasting impact is Protect Our Aquifer, the nonprofit he founded to ensure that the Memphis Sand aquifer remains clean and accessible to future generations. “This is all happening against a worldwide backdrop of fresh water shortages,” he says. “It’s a long haul, but we’re batting 1000 so far.”

EKUNDAYO BANDELE

In 2006, when he founded Hattiloo Theatre, Bandale’s vision went way beyond staging productions. It was, and is, to establish an African-American repertory theater that inspires the community and accomplishes significant work, from plays to outreach to education. His leadership includes spearheading a $4.3 million capital campaign to build Hattiloo’s two-theater venue that opened debt-free in 2014, and raising another $900,000 in 2016 to build the Hattiloo Development Center. He’s not only created theater buildings, he creates theater itself. He’s directed many plays, and last year he received a $20,000 grant from the MAP Fund to write and produce a play about the removal of this city’s Confederate statues.

BRETT BATTERSON Getting one Tony Award is a

Jen Andrews

Ekundayo Bandele

big deal; Orpheum Theatre Group president and CEO Batterson celebrated the Orpheum’s fourth Tony Award win two years ago when he and colleagues from the Independent Presenters Network co-produced The Band’s Visit. Before the coronavirus pandemic, the Orpheum had swelled its number of season-ticket holders to record heights, backed by huge acquisitions like hosting Hamilton’s Tennessee premiere. In the absence of live shows this year, Batterson has overseen efforts to continue community outreach via the live-streamed Memphis Songwriter Series.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY HATTILOO

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JACK BELZ As chairman and CEO of Belz Enterprises, Belz

heads one of the South’s largest real estate and development firms. A longtime booster, activist, and participant in Downtown development, he is best known for bringing back The Peabody, which served as the impetus for Downtown’s renaissance. He is the driving force behind Peabody Place, an eight-block mixed-use development that welcomed ServiceMaster’s headquarters in 2017. Belz worked with the Memphis Housing Authority and Henry Turley Company to develop Uptown, and has partnered in Downtown projects such as Harbor Town and South Bluffs.

MARK BILLINGSLEY Chairman of the Shelby County

Commission in 2019-20, Billingsley is the body’s longest-serving member. Appointed in early 2014 to fill a vacancy, Billingsley won election as a Republican to the District 4 seat (Germantown, southeast Shelby County) later that year and was reelected in 2018. Previous political positions included alderman and vice mayor of Germantown. Billingsley has held professional positions, with the Methodist Healthcare Foundation and Christian Brothers University, in fund development and revenue generation. As chairman, he had the difficult and time-consuming task of mediating as the commission underwent lengthy negotiations to produce a 2020-21 budget.

JOZELLE LUSTER BOOKER When business leaders need

to find new growth strategies, they call Booker, president and CEO of the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum, an economic accelerator for minority and women-owned enterprises. Operating a leading MBDA Business Center for the U.S. Department of Commerce, Booker oversees a national network of scalable minority suppliers. Whether it’s connecting small businesses with corporations, helping large companies improve their diversity programs, or helping small companies grow revenue, Booker gets results.

PAUL BOYLE In the late 1960s, Memphis had no office

CRAIG BREWER Memphis’ most accomplished film

director and screenwriter has a knack for finding the right stories, the right talent, and telling tales the right way. Brewer grabbed Hollywood’s attention with Memphisflavored films The Poor and Hungry, Oscar-winning Hustle & Flow, and Black Snake Moan, and kept that attention through numerous projects. He’s a writer, director, and co-executive producer on the hit Fox TV show Empire, and recently directed Dolemite Is My Name for Netflix.

RUBY BRIGHT Under Bright’s leadership since 2000, the

Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis has served as a backbone organization in the city, promoting philanthropy, fostering leadership, and supporting program services for women and families. Nationally recognized, WFGM harnesses the power of place-based, strategic fundraising and grant development for intergenerational impact. Since 1996, WFGM has invested more than $38 million in some 600 programs involving more than 160 nonprofits.

SCOTT BROCKMAN

Since 2014, Brockman has strived to improve Memphis air travel as president and CEO of the Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority. Currently, he is overseeing Memphis International Airport’s modernization plan to consolidate airline and retail operations in a beautified Concourse B. Brockman is an Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) and has served as chairman and Southeast Chapter representative of the AAAE Board of Examiners.

DON BRYANT Bryant gained his widest fame as a

songwriter, co-writing the hit “I Can’t Stand the Rain” with Ann Peebles, whom he married soon after. Only in the Hi Records milieu would a singer of Bryant’s caliber be relegated to writing rather than recording hits. And he wrote many — 154 by one account. Still a teenager, his song “I Got to Know” was recorded by The 5 Royales. Soon after, his vocal group began fronting Willie Mitchell’s band. When they broke up, Bryant started contributing vocals to Mitchell’s singles for Hi. This vocal work culminated in the release of a solo album, Precious Soul, in 1969. After Hi went under, Bryant kept a low profile, but says, “I never stopped writing.” His 2017 album, Don’t Give Up on Love,

parks, so the Boyle company, led today by Paul Boyle, got busy. The Ridgeway Center was a game-changer as were later projects like Schilling Farms, Humphreys Center, and River Oaks. It’s been a family enterprise even before the company was created. In 1907, Edward Boyle developed Midtown’s Belvedere subdivision. In 1933, three of his sons formed the investment company that expanded into sales, leasing and management, construction, mortgage banking, and insurance. Bayard Boyle Jr., a member of the Society of Entrepreneurs, led the company starting in the 1970s and remains co-chairman. Meanwhile, Paul Boyle, who began his development career with a local construction company, oversees the firm’s land, retail, office, and Craig Brewer PHOTOGRAPH BY JON W. SPARKS residential operations.

was backed by the Bo-Keys, and they’ve accompanied Bryant across the world. With this year’s You Make Me Feel, his Bo-Keys collaboration continues to win fans internationally.

NED CANTY

Since January 2011, Canty has brought opera to the city and the city to the opera as general director of Opera Memphis. In 2012 he launched “30 Days of Opera,” a monthlong festival of free performances throughout Memphis, celebrating its eighth season this fall. In 2017, Canty launched the McCleave Project, an initiative focused on creating increased diversity in opera, both in the audience and on stage. This year, when Midtown Opera Festival was canceled due to COVID-19 Canty led the Opera Memphis team in a virtual 30 Days of Opera celebration and arranged neighborhood opera performances with a trailer bed as stage. Canty was named an Inside Memphis Business CEO of the Year in 2017.

KAREN BLOCKMAN CARRIER

After graduating from the Memphis Academy of Arts and teaching art, Carrier went to New York and charted a culinary course. She returned to Memphis in 1987. She launched the catering firm Another Roadside Attraction and hip restaurants — Automatic Slim’s (sold in 2008), Cielo, Beauty Shop, Mollie Fontaine Lounge, D� Sushi, Bar DKDC, and Back Do/Mi Yard — garnering kudos from The New York Times, Bon Appetit, and Gourmet. Her eclectic style, marketing savvy, and mastery in the kitchen have kept her restaurants in high demand. Inducted into the Society of Entrepreneurs in 2004, she has met the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic with innovation.

PAUL CHANDLER Germantown loves the arts and

Chandler is the point person for much of the cultural efforts in that community. He’s executive director of the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC), which includes much of the entertainment, arts education, fundraising, performing arts, and visual art programs in the city. A recent addition to that facility has been The Grove, an outdoor performance venue next to GPAC. He’s also spearheading a public art master plan thanks to a $50,000 grant Germantown won from the National Endowment of the Arts Foundation’s Our Town program.

DARRELL COBBINS

Real estate has always been the Cobbins family business. After watching his grandfather create Lakeview Gardens in South Memphis (the first middle-income neighborhood for Black professionals), Cobbins began his path toward founding Universal Commercial Real Estate. When that opened in 2007, he presided over the only Black-owned commercial real estate firm in Memphis and drew in big clients including FedEx, City of Memphis, Crosstown

Darrell Cobbins

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DARRELL COBBINS

Ruby Bright

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY WFGM

7/16/20 5:10 PM


Memphis Magazine’s

THE 2020

FACE OF

CRIMINAL LAW

Front row left to right: Lorna McClusky, Joseph McClusky, Katie Wening, and Jason Ballenger Standing left to right: Dana Massey, William Massey, Lauren Fuchs, and Anais Paez

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Concourse, and Baker Donelson. With a focus on doing right by Memphis and inspiring youth through his work, Cobbins drew the attention of former governor Bill Haslam and was invited to be a member of the Tennessee State Board of Education, where he still serves.

ASHLEY COFFIELD An Arkansas native, Coffield —

president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Tennessee and North Mississippi — first encountered Memphis as a student at Rhodes and became a volunteer health educator at Planned Parenthood, inaugurating a 20-year career in public health that included service at the Public Health Foundation in Washington, D.C., and leadership of the advocacy group Partnership for Prevention. Her involvement with Planned Parenthood led her to become a member of the organization’s board and later its chair. She took her current position in 2013 and in 2014 headed Planned Parenthood’s statewide campaign against Amendment One, which aimed at restricting abortion rights in Tennessee, oversaw the merger of two Planned Parenthood affiliates in 2018, and continues to defend women’s reproductive rights. Coffield received a Women of Achievement Award for Courage in 2016.

STEVE COHEN Now serving his eighth term as

congressman from Memphis’ 9th District, Cohen has become a figure to reckon with in national politics — a frequent guest on political talk shows, leading critic of President Donald Trump, and mover/shaker on important domestic matters. As chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, he conducted hearings in 2019 on the issue of reparations for African Americans and, as one of the earliest members of Congress to call for Trump’s impeachment, had a front seat in Judiciary’s role in the ultimate 2019-20 impeachment effort. First elected to a congressional seat vacated by Harold Ford Jr. in 2006, Cohen previously served more than 20 years as a prominent and progressive member of the state senate, where he shepherded the Tennessee state lottery into being. As a member of the House Transportation Committee, he proposes seminal legislation and continues to land lagniappe for his district, like the Transportation Improvement Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants for the Memphis area.

CAROL COLETTA

In her two years as president and CEO of the nonprofit Memphis River Parks Partnership, Coletta has reimagined six miles of riverfront and five park districts along the Mississippi riverfront. The most visible — and controversial — project has been the $60 million redesign of Tom Lee Park, recently approved by the city. She is a former senior fellow in the Kresge Foundation’s American Cities Practice. She leads a $50+ million national collaboration of foundations, local nonprofits, and governments to Reimagine the Civic Commons in five cities, including Memphis. Coletta was vice president of Community and National Initiatives for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, led the start-up of ArtPlace, and was president of CEOs for Cities.

REGINALD COOPWOOD

Even with many planned hospital additions and expansions locally, Regional One (formerly The Med) remains the primary source of care for much of our city’s population. Coopwood took on the mantle of president and CEO of Regional One in 2010; his work is complemented by a commitment to community well-being. Previously, he was CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Hospital Authority. Coopwood’s honors for his work include being named Inside Memphis Business’ CEO of the Year in 2014 and receiving the Tennessee Hospital Association’s CEO Meritorious Service Award in 2011, the Diversity Champion Award in 2013, and the President’s Award in 2016.

JIM DEAN In April 2019, Dean became the Memphis Zoo’s

new president and CEO, replacing Chuck Brady, who held that position for 14 years. A Memphis native, Dean has more than 30 years’ leadership experience in the tourism and attractions industry, including Busch Gardens, Sea World, Discover Cove, Sesame Place, and Visit St. Pete Clearwater. Dean received the 2017 University of Memphis Distinguished Alumni Award, among other honors.

SALLY DEITCH

As group president/CEO of Tenet Healthcare’s Mid-South Group, Deitch oversees all operations at six Tenet Hospitals in Memphis and South Carolina; in Shelby County, she acts as market president for Saint Francis Healthcare and CEO for Saint Francis HospitalMemphis. Deitch has been twice named one of healthcare’s 10 Women Leaders to Watch by Modern

Healthcare. She received the Corris Boyd Leadership Award from the American Federation of Hospitals and was the first College of Nursing graduate to receive the University of Texas at El Paso Distinguished Alumni Award.

MICHAEL DETROIT

For more than 30 years, Detroit has trod the boards of local stages, collecting acting and singing awards, in addition to directing stage productions. Now executive producer of Playhouse on the Square, he oversees a $2.7 million annual budget with two touring productions and 18 stage shows produced on three stages: Playhouse on the Square, The Circuit Playhouse, and TheatreWorks@TheSquare. Thirteen educational outreach programs reach 30,000 children each year. During the pandemic, Detroit and his team nimbly adjusted offerings to sustain payroll and pivot programming.

JAMES DOWNING

CEO of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 2014, Downing is the architect of the institution’s plan to expand clinical care and research programs in Memphis and around the globe. He was instrumental in launching the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project, which has yielded discoveries across 23 types of pediatric cancers and generated new computational tools benefitting the broader field of genomic medicine. Downing has been a driving force to take St. Jude to the world. He championed St. Jude Global, a program focused on raising pediatric cancer survival rates internationally. He has received many honors, including election to the Institute of Medicine and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In 2020, he was named a CEO of the Year by Inside Memphis Business.

REID DULBERGER Driving economic development is

Dulberger’s expertise, which he does as president/CEO of the Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) for Memphis & Shelby County, and chief economic development officer for the City of Memphis and for Shelby County. EDGE provides and coordinates public resources through ongoing economic activities and projects that create value for the community and a strong foundation for economic growth. Since its start in 2011, EDGE has created or retained more than 38,000 jobs and more than $6.1 billion in capital investment for Memphis and Shelby County. Its projects have also generated more than $700 million in spending with local minority- and women-owned businesses.

WILLIAM EGGLESTON

Renowned photographer Eggleston burst on the global scene in the 1970s, stunning the art world when his prosaic and groundbreaking images of Southern life were shown at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. His decades of subsequent work secured his status as a major American artist and pioneer, with photos celebrated Carol Coletta

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY GIO ALMA

James Downing

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ST. JUDE

Ashley Coffield

PHOTOGRAPH BY LARRY KUZNIEWSKI

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Sally Deitch

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY SALLY DEITCH

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and analyzed in books and essays as well as displayed in museums and galleries worldwide. The first exhibition under the auspices of the Eggleston Art Foundation was at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens in January 2020. The foundation’s mission is to maintain his work and legacy as well as to advance the work of other artists through a variety of events.

STEVE EHRHART

Since 1994, Ehrhart has been executive director of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic, one of the oldest annual college postseason games. One of the highest-rated telecasts originating from Memphis, the game’s annual economic impact is estimated at $23 million-$25 million. The date of this year’s Classic, to be played between teams from the SEC and Big 12, had not been announced as of press time. A captain and quarterback of his football team at Colorado College, Ehrhart went on to represent athletes and coaches in his legal practice.

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THE 2020

FACE OF

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ANNA MULLINS ELLIS

The president and CEO of New Memphis, Ellis is devoted to attracting, retaining, and training diverse talent in Memphis. Before joining the nonprofit, she was instrumental in the creation of High Ground News and served as executive director of the Cotton Museum. The University of Memphis graduate has been named a “Top 40 Under 40” by the Memphis Business Journal and 20<30 by the Memphis Flyer for her work centered around empowering Memphians. Ellis is also the executive director of TEDxMemphis.

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KELLY ENGLISH A staple in our local restaurant industry,

English is dedicated to sharing his Louisiana roots and global influences. In 2008, he established Restaurant Iris, which boasts a French-Creole fine dining experience and has received many accolades, continuously topping “Best Restaurant,” “Best Chef,” and “Best Service” lists in local publications, including the Memphis Flyer and Memphis magazine. English has expanded with several offshoots. Next door to Restaurant Iris is Second Line, with a more casual approach to New Orleans-style dining; Iris Etc. offers wedding and event catering. In 2019, he took on Midtown deli Fino’s, which has provided meals to healthcare workers on the front lines of COVID-19.

ROBERT M. FOCKLER As president of the Community

Foundation of Greater Memphis, Fockler oversees the largest Mid-South charitable grantmaker, awarding more than $147 million last year. Under his direction, the Community Foundation manages 1,100 charitable funds for individuals, families, and organizations, with total assets of $480 million. Fockler leads the foundation’s efforts to present community information at LIVEGIVEmidsouth.org and to offer GiVE 365, a dollar-a-day giving program.

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Robert Fockler

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY KELLY ENGLISH

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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LILY BEAR TRAVERSE FOGLE

A native of East Tennessee, where she grew up roaming the fields when not locked in a trailer, Lily Bear has lived in Memphis since August 2017. She is of noble temperament, sweet disposition, fluffy fur, and unknown breed. Lily can often be found romping through the Old Forest at Overton Park, keeping watch over her cat-brother, Lucky Boots, and dog-brother, Puck, and learning to open bags, cabinets, and even refrigerators to find tasty treats. She arrived in Memphis through Imminent Danger German Shepherd Rescue. In May 2019, Lily appeared on the cover of this magazine, shown in the act of consuming a rainbow sno-cone. Known for both her floral and ursine qualities, Lily Bear is barking at you to make sure you are still paying attention to these bios.

TERRI LEE FREEMAN

President of the National Civil Rights Museum since 2014, Freeman has emphasized the connection between the historic civil rights era and contemporary issues. Through her collaborative approach, she has increased public engagement four-fold. She was previously president of the Washington, D.C.-based Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, where she focused on community building and consensus, quality of life issues, and increasing the foundation’s assets nearly sevenfold. The Commercial Appeal named her one of “18 Tennesseans to Watch in 2018.”

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The man most often referred to as The Reverend Al Green is actually a bishop, presiding over the Full Gospel Tabernacle he founded on Hale Road in 1976. Soon after, he turned away from secular music and the stardom it had brought him. Still, most know his name through hits like “Let’s Stay Together” and “I’m Still in Love with You,” masterful recordings he created with producer Willie Mitchell for Hi Records. A multiple Grammy winner, he is a member of the Rock-and-Roll, Gospel, and Songwriters Halls of Fame, with albums listed in Rolling Stone’s 500 greatest albums of all time. Named one of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time” by Rolling Stone, he was a Kennedy Center honoree in 2014. In 2018, he released “Before the Next Teardrop Falls,” his first new work in 10 years. While fans attend Sunday services hoping to hear him sing, one church member says, “We don’t even think about him as a celebrity. We think of him as our pastor.”

MICAH GREENSTEIN

Rabbi Greenstein has served Temple Israel, Memphis’ historic 166-year-old synagogue, for close to three decades, sustaining its position as the

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largest congregation in Tennessee and the Deep South. Reflecting Temple Israel’s commitment to the greater community, Greenstein was recognized as this magazine’s first “Memphian of the Year” in 2013. He was the first rabbi to preach at the Washington Cathedral on a Major State Day for Tennessee in 2005. He has been named among America’s Top 50 Rabbis by Newsweek/The Daily Beast and has served on the national board of the NAACP and the executive committee of the National Civil Rights Museum, where he continues to serve on its board of directors.

WILLIE GREGORY When it comes to big business, it

doesn’t get much bigger than Nike. Gregory, a Memphis native, joined the sports apparel conglomerate in 1993 and has seen the corporation become the largest occupier of supply-chain space in Memphis. Now the director of Global Community Impact, Gregory has collaborated with corporate giants like FedEx’s Fred Smith, whom Gregory succeeded last year as chairman of the Greater Memphis Chamber, where he helps oversee 68 development projects, $1.1 billion in capital investment, $109 million in minority- and women-owned business enterprises spending, and the creation of 3,800 jobs.

TRACY HALL

Named president of Southwest Tennessee Community College in 2015, Hall previously served as vice president for academic affairs at St. Louis Community College-Forest Park and as associate dean of instruction at Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley in Kansas City, Missouri. Hall serves on the Higher Learning Commission Peer Review Corps., American Association of Women in Community Colleges, Missouri Community College Association, and National Council of Instructional Administrators.

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as head coach of his alma mater in 2018 and by the summer of 2019 the University of Memphis had landed the nation’s top recruiting class. After a 22-14 record (and an NIT appearance) as a first-year college coach, Hardaway had his sights on a Top-10 ranking for 2020 and a return to the NCAA tournament. The jewel of that recruiting class — James Wiseman — was suspended for having accepted moving expenses from Hardaway (then the coach at East High School) in 2017. Wiseman’s college career ended after three games. The Tigers put up a 21-10 regular-season record before the American Athletic Conference tournament was canceled in the early days of COVID-19. Hardaway’s achievements include All-America honors at the U of M, All-NBA honors with the Orlando Magic in the mid-Nineties, and a gold medal with the 1996 U.S. Olympic team.

CAROLYN HARDY At the beginning of her career as

an accountant, Hardy was plant manager at the J.M. Smucker Company. She kept asking questions and found the answers that turned around the plant’s lackluster performance, showing her skills as a problem solver. She went on to manage the Coors brewery in Memphis and ended up buying the facility to launch Hardy Bottling. Since selling the brewery at a handsome profit, she became president and CEO of Chism Hardy Investments and Henderson Worldwide Investments. She’s also a member of the Society of Entrepreneurs and has served as chairwoman of the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Chamber’s Chairman’s Circle.

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A Leader in the Battle Against Coronavirus in Tennessee

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Memphis Magazine’s

THE 2020

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LEE HARRIS

Elected Shelby County mayor in 2018, Harris, a Democrat, is regarded as likely to hazard a future congressional race. As the county’s chief executive, he has pursued innovative reforms, particularly in the area of juvenile justice. He acted to institute a $15/hour minimum wage for county employees, incurring controversy when he pushed hard as well for the University of Memphis, as a grant recipient, to do the same. Born and raised in Memphis, Harris studied at Morehouse College and Yale Law School. Before his mayoralty, he served as a Memphis City Council member and in the Tennessee state senate, where he was elected minority leader. Most recently, he inaugurated numerous good-health activities and imposed strict safety standards during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MARJORIE HASS

When she took over as president of Rhodes College in 2017, Hass wasted no time getting to work. She announced the establishment of the Lynne and Henry Turley Memphis Center, which doubled the college’s investment in community partnerships, oversaw a new master’s degree in urban education, and launched a ten-year strategic plan. Recently, Rhodes was recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Scholars. Hass previously served as president of Austin College in Sherman, Texas, where she grew the college’s applicant pool and increased student retention, strengthened its financial situation, and improved the college’s environmental sustainability. Hass is past chair of the board of directors of the National Association for Independent Colleges and Universities.

ALISA R. HAUSHALTER When the coronavirus came to town,

Haushalter, director of the Shelby County Health Department (SCHD), took the lead in analyzing the situation, issuing directives, and providing public information. SCHD handles public-health services involving environmental, laboratory, infectious disease, immunization, child health, health promotion, opioid response, and public health emergency response. Haushalter took the position in 2016 and is an alumna and faculty member of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Nursing. She serves on several local boards and won the 2017 Tennessee Nurses Association Nursing Excellence Award in Administration among several others.

LARRY HEARD Devotees of the dance

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genre known as house music consider Heard a founder of the synthesizer- and drum machine-heavy style, but they typically associate him with Chicago, where he grew up and made a name for himself as a DJ in the ’80s. He has lived in Memphis for 23 years, where he continues to produce music as Mr. Fingers, Loosefingers, Gherkin Jerks, and Trio Zero. A specialist in the “deep house” subgenre, his singles, like 1986’s “Can You Feel It,” have influenced dance music globally. Combining elements of Chicago house with jazz, funk, and soul music, deep house is thought to

Lee Harris

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS

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have begun with Heard’s track “Mystery of Love” in 1984. Nowadays, he records more with live musicians; his recent work includes 2018’s triple LP, Cerebral Hemispheres.

SALLY JONES HEINZ Since February 2011, Heinz has acted

as president and CEO of the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA), the volunteer-supported agency that supports the independence of vulnerable seniors and families in crisis. MIFA’s high-impact programs touch some 50,000 people in this area annually. Heinz was previously MIFA’s vice president of development and has been with the organization since 2007. Originally from Memphis and a graduate of Rhodes, she also holds a master’s degree in American studies from the University of Texas.

MARK HEUBERGER

As CEO and president of the Collierville Chamber of Commerce, Heuberger acts as a resource to local business owners. A University of Memphis graduate, with a bachelor’s in journalism and a master’s in communication, Heuberger worked at MLGW for 26 years before taking his business and administration skills to Collierville, where he is quickly becoming a major figure in local administration.

CHARLES HODGES On Sunday mornings at the New

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Bethel Missionary Baptist Church (where he serves as associate pastor), you can hear the Rev. C.E. Hodges playing Hammond organ. His tone and command of the instrument may have a familiar ring, as his playing is featured on some of the defining records of the 1970s. As one of the Hodges brothers, Charles is a key member of the Hi Rhythm Section, who remain in demand for their funky, soulful chemistry. Playing in their father’s band with his older brothers LeRoy (bass) and Mabon, or “Teenie” (guitar), laid the foundation for decades of works. By the mid-’70s, they had played on 27 gold and platinum albums produced by Hi’s Willie Mitchell and others. Today, though Teenie passed away in 2014, the ensemble appears on albums, such as the Grammy-nominated Robert Cray & Hi Rhythm. Hodge is featured in the documentary Take Me To The River, which spawned tours and an educational initiative.

JAMES HOLT If you’ve grooved at the Beale Street Music .org/primary-care

Festival or sampled the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, thank Holt, president/CEO of Memphis in May International Festival, one of the nation’s largest and most successful annual civic events. The COVID-19 pandemic compelled MIM to cancel 2020 events, but it’s planning a 2021 return, building on Holt’s efforts during his two-decade tenure to expand the festival and grow assets from $10,000 to more than $4.3 million. MIM has received honors including more than 220 Pinnacle Awards from the International Festival and Event Association (IFEA). The 2019 MIM Festival grossed more than $12 million and had attendees from all 50 states and 26 foreign countries.

TIM HOWARD Among the greatest-ever American soccer

players, Howard turned to administration as his playing career wound down. He was instrumental in bringing professional soccer to the Bluff City as part-owner of 901 FC, helping Craig Unger and the rest of the front office find the right coaching and playing staff for the fledgling franchise. During his career, Howard played for storied English clubs like Manchester United, set the world record for most saves in a World Cup match (15), is the most-capped goalkeeper in United States national team history, and has garnered

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many personal honors. In a surprise twist, the part-owner came out of retirement before the 2020 USL season; when play resumes, fans can watch the “secretary of defense” suit up for his hometown team.

BARBARA AND J.R. HYDE Few Memphis families have had

such an impact on Memphis. Barbara is chairman and CEO of the Hyde Family Foundation. She has led efforts to bring innovative education initiatives to Memphis, most notably the KIPP Academy, Teach for America, and New Leaders. As a founding member and past chair of the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, she led the master planning and fundraising efforts to transform the park into a world-class amenity. J.R. “Pitt” founded AutoZone in 1979, one of three Fortune 500 companies with Memphis headquarters. He has become one of the city’s leading philanthropists, instrumental in founding the Memphis Bioworks Foundation, Memphis Tomorrow, and National Civil Rights Museum, and was part of the civic partnership that helped bring the Grizzlies to Memphis.

Front row: Robin Taylor, MD, Judi L. Carney, MD, and Candace D. Hinote, MD Back row: Dominique Butawan-Ali, MD, Paul D. Neblett, MD, Mary Katherine Johnson, MD, and Thomas D. Greenwell, MD

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The producer’s psychedelic beats break the norms of traditional hip hop. James Duke’s music is meticulously layered and takes influences from soul, jazz, and old-school funk. His attention to detail expands to Unapologetic, his record label and production company that works to foster new sounds. In the community, Duke has used his influence to educate youth around Memphis. In 2019 he unveiled the Unapologetic Youth Scholarship which is dedicated to supporting, valuing, and uplifting the ideas of young local rappers.

TAYLOR JENKINS

In his first stint as an NBA head coach, Jenkins guided the Memphis Grizzlies to a 32-33 record — good enough for a playoff position — before the league shut down to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The Penn graduate cut his teeth as a coach with the Austin Toros, the San Antonio Spurs’ D-League affiliate, from 2008 to 2013. He served as an assistant with the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks before being hired by the Grizzlies in 2019. He earned Western Conference Coach of the Month honors in January 2020 when Memphis won 11 of 15 games.

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needed someone to lead the college in an interim role in 2019, they turned to someone with extensive experience in creating quality leaders and teachers. Johnson-Dean arrived after serving as executive director of New Leaders, South Region, a national organization that provides leadership development for aspiring principals and teachers. Her roots in Memphis’ education scene run deep with board roles for City Year, Facing History and Ourselves, and Memphis Teacher Residency. Johnson-Dean previously served as superintendent of Memphis City Schools, where she was recognized with the Tennessee PTA Superintendent of the Year award.

FRED JONES

The Southern Heritage Classic — a football game between Jackson State University and Tennessee State University in September — has been held at the Liberty Bowl since 1990 thanks to Jones, president of Summitt Management Corporation, an entertainment consulting firm. The game has averaged more than 50,000 in attendance since it was first held; the 2020 Classic has been canceled amid concerns about COVID-19. In 2010, Jones received the

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amid concerns about COVID-19. In 2010, Jones received the Authur S. Holmon Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Memphis and was added to the Beale Street Brass Note Walk of Fame. In 2014 he garnered a Music Business Award from the W.C. Handy Heritage Awards. He received a Key to the City from Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland in 2017. As part of its 40th anniversary in 2019, Leadership Memphis saluted Jones as one of the 40 Change Makers in Memphis.

VICTORIA JONES As founder of The CLTV, Jones seeks to

support and uplift the works of fellow Black artists around the city. In 2019, she found its first brick-and-mortar home at The CMPLX in Orange Mound, featuring exhibits like “The Audacity: Addressing Our Representation in Popular Culture,” showcasing the works of Black illustrators, comic and manga artists, and toymakers. “We operate under the belief that Black artists are the most thoughtful, innovative, and intentional change agents currently working in the city,” she says. Jones holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with minors in history, African American studies, and English from Middle Tennessee State University.

BRYAN JORDAN The chairman, president, and chief

executive officer of First Horizon National Corporation, Jordan shepherds financial services offered through First Tennessee, Capital Bank, FTB Advisors, and FTN Financial businesses, and recently oversaw the first steps of a merger with IBERIABANK. First Horizon’s banking subsidiary has been ranked by American Banker as No. 5 among the Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Banks. He’s been named Best CEO, mid-cap category, in Institutional Investor magazine’s 2013 All-American Executive Team and CEO of the Year by Inside Memphis Business.

KEVIN KANE As president and CEO of Memphis Tourism

for 28 years, Kane can cite dollar figures, rankings, crowd flow, ticket sales, and economic impact. His reach is far, with satellite offices in the UK, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. He’s also president and CEO of the Memphis Management Group, which manages the Memphis Convention Center and Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. Kane is a graduate of Christian Brothers High School and the University of Memphis.

AL KAPONE Born and raised in Memphis, Al Kapone

is widely regarded as a pioneering hip-hop legend. Following his 1990s underground success, he was thrust into stardom with Craig Brewer’s 2005 film Hustle & Flow. Kapone wrote and produced three songs for the film and soundtrack; the film’s theme song, “It Ain’t Over,” won a Critics’ Choice Award and “Whoop That Trick” would become the Memphis Grizzlies’ unofficial fan chant at home games. Following these successes, Kapone wrote and produced music for other film soundtracks like Stomp the Yard and Cadillac Records. He also co-wrote top 10 Billboard hits “Snap Yo Fingaz” with Lil Jon and “U and Dat” with E-40 and T-Pain. His most recent album, Hip Hop Blues, was released in June 2020 and features collaborations with Eric Gales, Melissa Etheridge, and John Mayer. Kapone was the first hip-hop artist to become president of the Memphis Chapter of the Grammys and was an associate producer and featured artist on the film documentary Take Me To The River.

TAY KEITH

In a city with a long-standing diverse musical history, Keith is at the forefront of the new wave of Memphis music. The young producer began his career at the age of 14 and quickly gained a cult following through online forums. Today the Raleigh native is credited with bringing the contemporary, distinctive Memphis hip-hop sound to the world. Keith is best recognized for his work in producing Blocboy JB’s “Look Alive” as well as Drake’s “Nonstop,” both of which peaked in the Hot 100’s top-five list. He was nominated for a 2019 Grammy Award for co-producing Travis Scott’s Sicko Mode.

CARMEN KYLE Over the past year, Southaven, Mississippi,

has seen its job market increase and unemployment rate fall. Meanwhile, the city’s projected job growth over the next decade is estimated to be an impressive 38.7 percent. Some of that success can be traced to Kyle, executive director of the Southaven Chamber of Commerce since 2014. A graduate of Missouri State University, her father owned a small business, and from an early age she learned the value of hard work.

PATRICK LAWLER Now in his 40th year as the CEO of Youth

When she became executive director of the UrbanArt Commission in 2015, Kennedy was charged with bringing artists and neighborhoods together around public art. A 2018 strategic plan aims to elevate equity and expand beyond creating sculptures and murals to delve into the artists and neighborhoods impacted by the work. A major project in 2020 has been partnering with the Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority to create five public art opportunities as part of the new Concourse B project. This year, UrbanArt leveraged more than $600,000 in payments to artists amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Villages, Lawler has grown the organization from serving 25 youths to offering hope to more than 30,000 young people annually. It is today one of the largest private providers of services to troubled children and their families in the country. He has established specialized treatment programs involving more than 3,000 employees in 84 locations across 21 states and the District of Columbia. The White House cited Youth Villages as an example of “effective, innovative nonprofits” that are “high-impact, result-oriented” organizations. In 2020 Lawler was the recipient of the Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service Benefitting the Disadvantaged, a national honor considered the Nobel Prize for service.

BINDER KUMAR

DEBBIE LITCH Theatre Memphis is celebrating its 100th

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In 1996, Kumar opened India Palace in a former health food store at Poplar and Evergreen. Known for its colorful murals and all-you-can-eat lunchtime buffet, the restaurant offers authentic Northern Indian cuisine. Originally from Punjab, India, Kumar came to the United States in 1991 and moved to Memphis in 1996. India Palace has earned “Best Indian” nods in this magazine’s Readers Restaurant Poll almost every year since it opened.

DAVID KUSTOFF

Looking for a third term in 2020, the congressman from Tennessee’s 8th District was first elected in 2016 following a hotly contested GOP primary. Kustoff was a long-term law partner of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland. He served as Tennessee campaign manager for the presidential campaigns of George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004 and made an unsuccessful first congressional try in the Republican primary for the 7th Congressional District in 2002. Appointed by Bush as U.S. Attorney for Tennessee’s Western Division, he served until 2008. Kustoff is one of the most enthusiastic supporters of President Donald Trump.

anniversary season with an altered schedule because of the coronavirus. Litch became executive producer in 2004 after stints at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. She has received the Memphis Symphony Hebe and Amphion awards, Germantown Arts Alliance Patron of the Arts Award, Gyneka Award from the Women’s Theatre Festival of Memphis, and the Memphis Ostrander Janie McCrary “Putting It Together” award.

JASON LITTLE Named to his position in 2014, Little is only

the fifth person to serve as president and CEO in the long history of the Baptist Memorial Health Care system. Under his leadership, Baptist has seen immense growth, with the former 14-hospital network increasing to 21 facilities in the Mid-South. Little’s career has spanned almost two decades; he arrived at Baptist in 2002 after serving as operations administrator at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale.

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GRETCHEN WOLLERT MCLENNON

A lifelong love of ballet has propelled McLennon to the leadership of Ballet Memphis, where she is taking over as president and CEO from the retiring Dorothy Gunther Pugh, who founded the organization in 1986 with two dancers and a $75,000 budget. The company now has a $4 million operating budget and has performed around the world. As a child, McLennon was a student in the Ballet Memphis school and part of the junior company. She was board chair from 2014 to 2017 and worked on the project to construct the company’s facility in Overton Square. She brings more than 15 years’ experience in the philanthropic and nonprofit sector, including 10 years at the Hyde Family Foundation as program director. She has also been major gifts officer for MIFA and a donor relations officer for the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta.

KEENON MCCLOY

As the head of Memphis Public Libraries, McCloy oversees an urban library system with 18 locations, a radio and TV station, a 2-1-1 call center, and diverse offerings of 7,000 programs impacting nearly 3 million customers. She initiated a private funding campaign for JobLINC, a mobile job/career service, and envisioned and secured private support for the teen learning lab CLOUD901, one of the largest and most innovative STEAM labs nationwide free for public use. McCloy champions eliminating barriers to access.

LAWRENCE “BOO” MITCHELL Elvis may have been the

King, but Royal Studios president and this magazine’s 2019 “Memphian of the Year“ Mitchell has been Memphis music royalty for decades. From a first paid gig as a keyboard player on Al Green’s “As Long as We’re Together,” Mitchell has his fingerprints all over hits from Memphis and international music legends. Royal Studios’ legacy includes many recognizable names: Wu-Tang Clan, Chuck Berry, Rod Stewart, the Bo-Keys, and Bruno Mars (whose “Uptown Funk” landed Mitchell his very own Grammy award). Mitchell is active as a member of the Recording Academy, where he helps spread the music and culture of the South.

ROBERT MOODY Conducting MSO into a new era, Moody

was appointed principal conductor of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra in 2015 and named music director in 2017. Internationally acclaimed, his guest conducting has included the Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Toronto Symphony, Vienna Chamber Orchestra, Cape Town Philharmonic, Orquesta Filarmonica de Bogota, Spoleto Festival, and Santa Fe Opera. He previously served as resident conductor for the Phoenix Symphony, music director of the Portland (Maine) Symphony, and music director of the Winston-Salem Symphony.

JA MORANT By his third NBA game — one in which

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he scored 30 points and handed out nine assists — the Memphis Grizzlies knew they found a jewel in selecting Morant with the second pick of the 2019 draft. Only 20 years old, Morant emerged over the winter as the favorite for the league’s 2020 Rookie of the Year award, while helping the Griz into playoff contention at least a season ahead of schedule. When games were halted in March, Morant’s numbers included 17.6 points and 6.9 assists per game. He had started every game he had played (59). The

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South Carolina native played two seasons of college ball at Murray State and earned first-team All-America honors as a sophomore in 2018-19.

DR. SCOTT MORRIS An ordained Methodist minister,

Morris founded Church Health in 1987 to provide quality, affordable healthcare for uninsured working people and their families. With financial support from foundations, churches, corporations, and individuals — along with the volunteer help of doctors, nurses, dentists, and others — the organization is the largest faith-based healthcare organization of its type in the country. A two-person operation on its first day, Church Health served more than 54,000 patients over the last year alone, and recently moved to to Crosstown Concourse.

JIM NEELY A native Memphian and veteran, Neely opened

Interstate Barbecue in 1979 after sensing that Memphis had a lack of family-owned BBQ restaurants. He took a risk leaving his job as an insurance agent, but what began as a tiny place run out of a mom-and-pop grocery store has morphed into a chain of local restaurants, with locations in South Memphis, Whitehaven, and Germantown. Despite the expansions, Neely has always tried to keep his restaurants close to their mom-and-pop roots, offering lots of local flair and plenty of their distinctive coleslaw.

EMILY BALLEW NEFF

This year’s challenge for the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art has been to adapt proactively to 2020’s health, economic, and social crises both in virtual and actual presentation of art. Since Neff became executive director in April 2015, she has produced a centennial celebration, two new series (Rotunda Projects and Brooks Outside), and permanent galleries for the art of Carroll Cloar and native-son photographers William Eggleston and Ernest C. Withers. Last year, Brooks announced that Pritzker Prize winners Herzog & de Meuron will be design architect for its proposed facility overlooking the Mississippi River, with Memphis firm archimania as architects of record.

JENNIFER OSWALT

As president of the Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC), Oswalt leads the organization tasked with developing Downtown for the betterment of our entire region. Under her leadership, the Downtown development pipeline has grown to more than $4 billion, with multiple catalytic projects planned or under way. A native Memphian, Oswalt graduated from the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee. She is a past co-chair for the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis and current chair of Innovate Memphis.

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TOMMY PACELLO

Born and raised in Memphis, Pacello is president of the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, a nonprofit organized to redevelop the Medical District. He served as a member of Memphis’ Innovation Delivery Team, a Bloomberg Philanthropies nonprofit formed to create plans of action against the city’s most critical issues. Pacello has also worked at Code Studio, where he managed projects regarding planning and development code, and served as an assistant city attorney for the City of Memphis.

DJ PAUL

He started taking organ lessons in 1985, and those brought success — including multi-platinum album sales and an Oscar win in 2006 — to Paul Duane Beauregard. He

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singles out the “horror core” sound that he helped craft for Three 6 Mafia, which he founded in 1991 with Lord Infamous and Juicy J. Echoes of his youth emanate from his 2019 album, Power, Pleasure, and Painful Things. Though his brother, Ricky T. Dunigan, aka Lord Infamous, passed away in 2013, Paul still identifies strongly with his family. With homes in Los Angeles and Memphis, he supports up-and-coming local artists like Seed of Six, Lil’ Infamous, and Loco Dunit, all relatives of his.

CATHY POPE By the time she arrived in Memphis,

Pope needed no introduction to food crises. Arriving from Mobile, Alabama, where she was president and CEO of Feeding the Gulf Coast, Pope immediately set to work taking advantage of the Mid-South Food Bank’s 150,000-square-foot warehouse. As CEO, she oversees 31 counties in the region, partnering with churches and food pantries to distribute food to impoverished areas. Each month, the food bank delivers 1.5 million pounds of food to those who need it in the Mid-South.

DAVID PORTER The original “Soul Man,” Porter is the

architect of Memphis soul music and was, at 22, Stax Records’ first salaried songwriter in 1963. Porter’s songs, including “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I’m Coming,” have sold more than 300 million units worldwide. Porter has served on boards and commissions including the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Youth Villages, and the Stax Museum Foundation. In 2012 he opened Consortium MMT (Memphis Music Town), a national music mentorship nonprofit connecting industry veterans to young talent in Memphis. Porter was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame along with fellow Memphian, songwriting partner, and lifelong friend Isaac Hayes in 2005. In 2015, he was named by Rolling Stone one of the “100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time” with more than 1,700 songwriting and composing credits.

PROJECT PAT AND JUICY J Brothers from a North

Memphis neighborhood, Patrick Earl Houston (Project Pat) and Jordan Michael Houston (Juicy J) have come to represent the city to much of the world. While Juicy J cofounded Three 6 Mafia with DJ Paul in 1991, his older brother Pat had a hand in Three 6 Mafia’s 2000 hit, “Sippin’ On Some Syrup.” Juicy J has forged an independent career as well. As a junior at Northside High School, he wrote “Slob My Knob,” and the track has enjoyed impressive longevity. Indeed, that track from the ’90s was named the “most influential rap song of 2018” by Rolling Stone. Since Three 6 Mafia’s Oscar win in 2006, Juicy J has stayed busy in television and music, including as co-owner of Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang label. Last year, a series of Three 6 Mafia reunion shows with his brother, DJ Paul, and others drew massive crowds.

MICHAEL RALLINGS

Director of the Memphis Police Department, Rallings demonstrated calming leadership as MPD interim director in 2016 during the protest demonstrations that temporarily shut down the I-40 bridge over the Mississippi River. He has since

been tasked with addressing other edgy situations involving police relations with the Black community. He has overseen the restructuring of the MPD command staff, Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and Organized Crime Unit. An Army veteran, Rallings rose through the MPD ranks. He has spent much of the past year working with the city council and mayor’s office to institute new citizen-friendly rules of conduct to regulate police interaction. Rallings intends to retire in 2021.

leader since 2011. Before St. Philips’s, Roaf was associate rector for three years at Trinity Episcopal Church in New Orleans. She holds a law degree from the University of Arkansas, Little Rock, a bachelor’s degree from Harvard, and an MPA from Princeton. Roaf attended Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, where she is vice chair of the board of trustees.

BEVERLY ROBERTSON

County Schools (SCS) is among the twenty-five largest in the nation. As newly elected superintendent, Ray’s motto is “Dream, Stand, Believe, and Achieve with Courage.” He previously served the district for 22 years as chief of academic operations and school support, director of alternative schools, principal, and teacher. He was inducted into the University of Memphis College of Education and Health Sciences Hall of Fame. Accolades include the 2019 University of Memphis Black Alumni Association Outstanding Alumnus Award and the Living Legend Award presented by the State of Tennessee House of Representatives.

As president of the Greater Memphis Chamber, Robertson draws together collaborators to showcase the city as a business destination as well as a place for existing businesses to thrive. Through partnerships, she aims to increase jobs, encourage training, and make the most of the city’s four-R assets: road, river, rail, and runway. She is also principal of TRUST Marketing, bringing more than 30 years’ experience in public and community relations, communications, strategic planning, and research. Robertson led the National Civil Rights Museum for more than 17 years, raising $43 million for an expansion of the museum as well as a capital and endowment campaign. In 2010, NCRM received recognition as one of the top 10 national treasures by USA Today.

BILL RHODES When the head audit partner at Ernst &

DESIREE ROBINSON After opening the Cozy Corner in 1977

JORIS M. RAY With more than 100,000 students, Shelby

Whinney (now Ernst & Young) was tired of the audit team losing inter-department golf competitions, he saw AllAmerican golfer Bill Rhodes swing a club and hired him as an intern. That kickstarted a career which saw Rhodes become the youngest president of a Fortune 500 company, AutoZone, at just 39. He oversees the nation’s leading auto parts retailer and distributor, an $11.9 billion company (fiscal year 2019) with more than 6,300 stores. Rhodes is a minority owner of the Memphis Grizzlies and is the past chairman of the Retail Industry Leaders Association. In 2013, Inside Memphis Business named Rhodes CEO of the Year.

TODD RICHARDSON A former Fulbright scholar and

Samuel H. Kress Fellow, Richardson joined the faculty of the University of Memphis, teaching European Renaissance Art History. He is better known for his instrumental work in the transformation of the landmark Sears Crosstown building into Crosstown Concourse. Since 2010, Richardson has been an integral part of the revitalization of the Crosstown neighborhood. He received the Innovation Award from the Memphis Business Journal as well as the John S. Wilder Rebuild Tennessee Award for his contributions to the city.

Todd Richardson

PHOTOGRAPH BY LARRY KUZNIEWSKI

PHOEBE ROAF

Named Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee in 2019, Roaf became the first woman and the first African American to lead the diocese. A lifelong Episcopalian, she was rector at St. Philip’s, the oldest African-American church in the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia, where she served as parish

with her husband, she took over the business following his 2001 death. The tiny building at North Parkway and Manassas has developed quite a following, drawn to such staples as barbecue shoulder, ribs, and chicken, along with something a bit unusual: Their Cornish hen is one of the most popular items on the menu. Robinson’s cooking skills extend beyond Memphis. This year, she became the first African-American woman inducted into Kansas City’s American Royal BBQ Hall of Fame.

KENNETH ROBINSON In February 2015, Robinson was

named president and CEO of United Way of the Mid-South, serving Shelby County and seven surrounding counties in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi, after serving as a volunteer and former board member with the organization for more than 20 years. He is former pastor and CEO of St. Andrew AME Church, where he spearheaded the Circles of Success Learning Academy, one of Tennessee’s first charter schools, and molded the church into an entity responsible for $22 million of new investment in South Memphis. He is also the former Tennessee Commissioner of Health and served as advisor to Memphis Mayor A C Wharton and Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell.

PATRICE ROBINSON Chair of the Memphis City Council,

Robinson was elected to the council in 2015. She previously served as a member of the Memphis School Board and as two-time president of that board. She also served on the Tennessee School Boards Association’s board of directors and president of the 2010-2011 Tennessee Legislative Network. She owns the title of Master School Boardsman. As a council member, Robinson co-sponsored the resolution for universal Pre-K in Memphis, worked to re-establish the Greater Whitehaven Economic Redevelopment Corporation, initiated the MLGW Share the Pennies Initiative, and created the Weatherization Task Force. She also serves as liaison for the Pension Board and the Pension Investment Committee.

GAYLE ROSE When she was studying clarinet in Iowa,

Rose surely never imagined she would play so many key roles in Memphis. Among them: founder and CEO of EVS Corporation, a cloud backup and disaster recovery company

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headquartered in Memphis; chair of the Rose Family Foundations; and past board chair of the Memphis Symphony. In 2012, she received the CEO of the Year Award from Inside Memphis Business and has been named Humanitarian of the Year by Diversity Memphis. Rose was internationally recognized in 2007 with the Changing Face of Philanthropy Award from the Women’s Funding Network. She is also well-known for helping to land the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team and co-founding the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. In 2010, she founded Team Max, a grassroots, virtual volunteer organization honoring the memory of her late son.

MATT ROSS-SPANG At age 14, Ross-Spang was gifted

recording time at Sun Records; two years later, he went to work there as an intern, installing period-correct equipment like that used by Sam Phillips in Sun’s glory days, and eventually named chief engineer. Striking out on his own in 2015, his first project — engineering and mixing Jason Isbell’s Something More Than Free — won him his first Grammy. (His second was for his work on Isbell’s The Nashville Sound.) Working out of Phillips Recording Studio in Memphis or facilities in Nashville, he exemplifies the close connections between the two cities, as heard in his work on albums by Margo Price, John Prine, and others. He brings a deep understanding of artists rooted in Memphis history, remixing Elvis Presley tracks to great acclaim, and producing new tracks for Al Green and William Bell.

ELIZABETH ROUSE

As president and CEO of ArtsMemphis, Rouse oversees the Mid-South’s primary arts funder. During her tenure, ArtsMemphis has invested more than $40 million in the arts in Shelby County. This year, ArtsMemphis has been integral to supporting artists during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has worked with the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis’ Mid-South COVID-19 Regional Response Fund to offer grants locally, and received $250,000 in CARES Act funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

DAVID RUDD

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Entering a seventh year as president of the University of Memphis, Rudd has overseen a number of record-breaking improvements in retention and graduation rates. Other efforts include a new division of Student Success, need-based funding, and LiFE Learning Inspired by FedEx, offering eligible FedEx employees a chance to earn a tuition-free degree online. New developments include the Laurie Walton Family Basketball Center and a pedestrian bridge over the train tracks on Southern. U of M also plans to add a high school to its laboratory school system.

a major voice for African-American equality and justice for underserved populations. Sawyer was instrumental as the leader of Take ’Em Down 901, a successful effort to remove local Confederate monuments from public parks. She has supported a variety of progressive causes on the commission, advocated mandatory wearing of masks in public during the coronavirus pandemic, and took part in demonstrations against police killings of Black people. Sawyer attended St. Mary’s Episcopal School, the University of Memphis, and Howard University School of Law.

STEVE SCHWAB Chancellor of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center since 2010, Schwab is also CEO of the statewide UTHSC system spanning four campuses in Memphis, Knoxville, Nashville, and Chattanooga, and oversees all six of the university’s doctoral-degree health science colleges. He is an internationally recognized researcher and author, notably in the fields of chronic renal failure and dialytic therapy. His main honors include the Distinguished Service Award from the National Kidney Foundation of America and the Clinician-Scientist Award from the American Heart Association.

RICHARD SHADYAC JR.

As president and CEO of ALSAC, Shadyac has worked to promote fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The organization is supported by more than 11 million donors and volunteers. Under his leadership, ALSAC has become the top healthcare charity in the country and the top not-for-profit healthcare brand, with more than 31,000 fundraising activities held annually in all 50 states, including the FedEx St. Jude Classic and St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend. Recent awards include being named 2016 CEO of the Year by Inside Memphis Business and receiving the 2017 Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Shadyac also serves as board chairman of Memphis Tomorrow.

JACK SHANNON

With Christian Brothers University seeking to provide competitive higher-level education and boost development of economically challenged areas, Shannon brings a track record in education and revitalization. Before his tenure at Montclair State University, immediately prior to CBU, he served as president/CEO of East Baltimore Development Co., which led a large urban redevelopment initiative. At the University of Pennsylvania, he orchestrated the “West Philadelphia Initiatives,” a neighborhood redevelopment plan that received the 2003 Urban Land Institute Award for Excellence.

TAMI SAWYER

Elected Shelby County Commissioner in 2018, Sawyer was a grass-roots candidate for mayor of Memphis in 2019, supported by the reconvened People’s Convention, among others. She is considered likely to make future electoral bids. As the national field director of Black Voters Matter, she is best-known locally as

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KEVIN SHARP The Linda W. and S. Herbert Rhea Director of The Dixon Gallery and Gardens since 2007, Sharp has contributed to more than 25 books on American and French art and organized more than 100 exhibitions. The Dixon showcases important works of art, hosts dozens of education programs, and maintains a 17-acre garden. Under Sharp’s leadership, the Dixon offers pay-what-you-wish Tuesdays and free Saturday mornings, as well as quarterly Family Days and a strong commitment to neighborhood and community.

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LINN SITLER

The most recent triumph of Sitler’s 30+ years as the Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commissioner was the commitment by NBC to film Bluff City Law here. Unfortunately canceled after its first season, it brought big names, revenue, and attention to Memphis. She also secured three (so far) Hallmark/Graceland movies filmed in town. Past films she’s wrangled include Mystery Train, The Firm, The Rainmaker, The People vs. Larry Flynt, 21 Grams, My Blueberry Nights, Hustle & Flow, Sun Records, and Brian Banks. The longest-serving film commissioner in the world, Sitler is also one of only 60 film commissioners to earn professional certification.

DARRELL SMITH As executive director of the World Golf

Championships-FedEx St. Jude Invitational, Smith oversees the annual PGA Tour event that brings the world’s finest golfers to TPC Southwind. One of four annual WGC events in the world, the tournament moved to Memphis from Akron, Ohio, in 2019. The 2020 event was pushed back a month during the coronavirus pandemic, scheduled to be played from July 30 to August 2. Smith previously served as tournament director of the FedEx St. Jude Classic. His career with the local tournament began in 2005.

FREDERICK W. SMITH Nobody delivers like the founder,

chairman, and CEO of FedEx Corporation. His $64 billion global transportation, business services, and logistics company is a vital economic engine in the Memphis region, with a worldwide impact. Since founding FedEx in 1971, he has advocated for regulatory reform, free trade, open skies agreements for aviation worldwide, and a national energy policy that includes vehicle energy-efficiency standards. FedEx is the region’s largest employer, with a pre-COVID local workforce of more than 30,000 and a global workforce of more than 400,000. A Marine in the late 1960s, Smith has been named to the Aviation Hall of Fame, and won the Circle of Honor Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation.

KATIE SMYTHE

A native Memphian, Smythe returned to Memphis after a career as a professional dancer and teaching artist in Minneapolis, New York, and Los Angeles. She founded New Ballet Ensemble and School in 2002 to use dance to bridge racial and economic barriers. Several graduates have gone on to professional dance careers, notably including Charles “Lil Buck” Riley. Her eclectic work has drawn international attention. In 2014, New Ballet received the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award at the White House for its work in Orange Mound, and Smythe was named the Tennessee Governor’s School of the Arts Teacher of the Year in 2019.

JACK SODEN When 21 million people come to your home

you must be doing something right. Soden has been CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. ever since Priscilla Presley asked him to develop a business plan for Graceland. Since it opened to the public in 1982, the King of Rock-and-Roll’s former estate has evolved into one of the nation’s premier tourist attractions, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe and generating an estimated $200 million annual economic impact in Memphis. In 2016/2017, Graceland undertook the greatest enhancement and expansion in its history, including The Guest House at Graceland (a $92 million resort hotel) and Elvis Presley’s Memphis (a

multi-gallery entertainment complex). Last year it added the 80,000-square-foot Graceland Exhibition Center.

MARK SUTTON Named chairman of International Paper

Memphis Child Advocacy Center in 2014, Stallworth first joined the organization in 1998 as development and community relations director and then served as associate director. She is past president of the Memphis chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, which has recognized her as Outstanding Fundraising Executive.

in 2014 and CEO in 2015, Sutton first joined IP in 1984 as an electrical engineer with a paper mill in Pineville, Louisiana, later moving to Thilmany, Wisconsin, as mill manager. He then transferred overseas and was named vice president and general manager of European corrugated packaging operations in 2002, where he oversaw operations across seven countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Sutton relocated to Memphis in 2005 and escalated quickly within the company through several VP roles.

SUSAN STEPHENSON AND CHIP DUDLEY

GINA SWEAT Appointed in January 2016 as director of the

VIRGINIA STALLWORTH Executive director of the

What does partnership get you? For Stephenson and Dudley, that collaboration yielded Independent bank, the second-largest bank in Shelby County. Founded in 1998, the institution holds more than $800 million in total assets and $100 million in capital, and employs 180 people. Each credits their partnership for taking Independent to the heights it’s reached. Dudley previously served as president, chairman, and CEO of Boatmen’s Bank of Arkansas (the largest bank in the state), while Stephenson became the first female chairman of a Tennessee bank when she led Boatmen’s Bank of Tennessee. Now, the two share leadership of Independent Bank, which provides a complete line of financial services, with a specialty in automobile lending.

JIM STRICKLAND Elected city mayor in a 2015 upset win

over A C Wharton, Strickland easily won reelection in 2019. His original electoral slogan of “Brilliant with the Basics” conforms to his triple themes of public safety, blight eradication, and governmental accountability. With legal advisers, he devised a successful strategy for removing two statues of Confederate leaders from public parks Downtown. He has proposed and begun implementation of Memphis 3.0, a new strategic plan for the city, and has boasted increases in city contracts with Black- and women-run businesses. In early 2020, Strickland was faced with the COVID-10 pandemic and resultant issues of business closures and reopenings, and promised remedial action in race-based discrimination. Strickland is a former chairman of the Shelby County Democratic Party and former longtime law partner of David Kustoff, now a Republican member of Congress from the 8th District.

TINA SULLIVAN Executive director of the Overton Park Conservancy since 2012, Sullivan has more than a decade of experience in parks management. She oversees OPC’s Park-Wide Master Plan, designed to make the park equitable for all Memphians while honoring its historic and present uses. Sullivan left Memphis in 1989 after high school, and upon her return in 2009, she was impressed with the way the community had come to view its green spaces. “There’s a lot of excitement for the assets we have,” Sullivan said in 2016. “I see a sense of civic pride that I do not recall from growing up in Memphis in the 1980s.”

Memphis Fire Department, Sweat is one of only a handful of women in the country leading a metropolitan fire department. Her career began in 1992 as a firefighter/EMT and she worked her way through the ranks of the department, earning promotions to driver (1995), fire lieutenant (1998), battalion chief (2001), and division chief (2008). Sweat is a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University where she also played basketball. She earned a master’s degree in strategic leadership from the University of Memphis in 2013.

KEITH SYKES

Born in Kentucky, but raised in Memphis, Sykes bought his first guitar on Beale Street at the age of 10. “Somehow I always had an instinct on how to put a song together,” he says. “And over the years I worked on my craft. You’ve got your inspiration and you’ve got your perspiration.” After releasing two solo albums in the early ’70s, he impressed Jimmy Buffett, who soon covered Sykes’ material. By the ’80s, Sykes was playing guitar in Buffett’s band and performing his own songs on Saturday Night Live. By the end of the decade, he focused solely on music publishing, before returning to the stage in the early 2000s. Sykes often recorded at Memphis’ Ardent Records over the years, and in 2018 he became the studio’s manager.

BISHOP DAVID TALLEY

The Most Reverend David Talley has served as Bishop of the Catholic Diocese in Memphis since April 2019. Talley was raised a Southern Baptist in Columbus, Georgia, but converted to Catholicism while attending Auburn University. He obtained a master’s degree in social work from the University of Georgia and earned his Master of Divinity degree in 1989 from Meinrad Seminary in Indiana. For several years, the Rev. Talley served several parishes in Georgia before earning a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy. In 2001, he was named an official chaplain to Pope John Paul III. After returning to the United States he served as a pastor in Georgia and named an Auxiliary Bishop to the Archdiocese of Atlanta. Before coming to Memphis, he was appointed the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana. His personal motto is “I will give you a new heart,” from Ezekiel 36:26.

Tina Sullivan

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY TINA SULLIVAN

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THE 2020

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CARLA THOMAS

Hailed as “The Queen of Memphis Soul,” Thomas was instrumental in putting Stax Records’ on the map. Thomas and her father, Rufus Thomas, were the first artists to cut a record at Stax and their single “Cause I Love You” would become a regional hit. She followed up with “Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes)” which garnered national attention, peaking at number 5. The two songs were key in convincing Jim Stewart, owner of Stax, to shift to producing R&B music while bringing national attention to Memphis. In 1993 Thomas was awarded the Pioneer Award in honor of her musical achievements. Since then, she has continued to perform occasionally, often with her sister, Vaneese Thomas, or with the Stax Music Academy student band.

STEPHEN THRELKELD The infectious disease specialist

has been a key figure in Memphis’ COVID-19 response, but his battles against disease stretch back much further. After graduating from the University of Alabama medical school and completing post-grad training at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, he returned to Memphis to join his brother’s practice, Threlkeld Infectious Disease. Threlkeld currently acts as the infectious disease consultant for the cardiac transplant team and the ECMO (extra corporeal membrane oxygenation) team at Baptist, where he helped set up proper social distancing protocols and equip hospitals for larger influxes of patients. His topdown initiatives to improve hospital workflow targeted improved safety for both staff and patients, as well as pushing innovations like telemedicine.

PAT KERR TIGRETT

A beacon of style worldwide, Tigrett is a force in hometown issues as well. An active member of the Memphis in May board, she is a patron of the city’s musical traditions, an entrepreneur, a collector, and a philanthropist, and of late she has been a major voice in the debate over riverfront development. She is chairman and CEO of Pat Kerr, Inc., a couture design firm, and founder of the Memphis Charitable Foundation, the umbrella organization for the Moonshine Ball, Blues Ball, Jingle Bell Ball, and Nutcracker Ball benefiting Memphis music, children, and the arts. Her international client list includes royalty (literally). Kensington Palace featured the Pat Kerr Royal Collection through this year, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death.

HENRY TURLEY

He is the real-estate renaissance maker in Memphis. With Jack Belz, Turley developed the upscale Harbor Town residential and commercial community on Mud Island, the low- and middle-income Uptown residential development, and South Bluffs, where he, a native Memphian, lives. He is leading revitalization efforts in Jackson, Tennessee, with Healthy Community, along with the $55 million redevelopment of Central Station in the South Main Arts District into a multipurpose complex. In 2018 he received a Distinguished Service Medal for his “inspired vision” from Rhodes College, home of the Lynne and Henry Turley Memphis Center, which offers programs focusing on the human experience in the Mid-South.

MICHAEL UGWUEKE

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Raleigh, North Carolina. He would then go on to complete a master’s in public health at Emory University and a doctorate in health administration at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Ugwueke began working for Methodist North and South Hospitals in June 2009. In early 2020, he was named one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare.

ERIC VERNON

The owner of The BBQ Shop grew up watching his father, Frank, cooking in their family’s kitchen and was hooked. After taking over as operations manager in 2015, the younger Vernon has turned his shop into a Midtown institution that has garnered national attention and is a winner in this magazine’s annual restaurant poll for both “Best BBQ Ribs” and “Best BBQ Sandwich.” Their establishment is known for something else, too; the father-son duo are the originators of barbecue spaghetti.

GEBRE WADDELL

Waddell’s love of computers and music led him to establish a studio and to write software for audio mastering. The programming caught on and the native Memphian’s reputation grew, especially with his 2013 book Complete Audio Mastering Practical Techniques. His tech company Soundways opened more doors for him and in 2017 he was named president of the Grammys’ Memphis Chapter. Waddell was named an Innovator of the Year in 2018 by Inside Memphis Business and he won the Rise of the Rest seed fund tour. This year, the young entrepreneur was voted onto the national Board of Trustees of the Grammys/Recording Academy and was appointed by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee to the Tennessee Entertainment Commission.

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TEDDY WALTON Still in his twenties, Walton’s sound-

scapes have graced recordings by Drake, Chris Brown, Future, Post Malone, and Kendrick Lamar, with his tracks appearing on the latter’s 2018 Pulitzer Prize-winning album, DAMN. That same year, he produced Lamar’s “King’s Dead” for the Black Panther soundtrack, which won a Grammy for Rap Song of the Year. Walton began honing his craft with family members, namely his brother June, with whom he recorded his first releases in 2012. He is known for tracks that feature ethereal sounds reminiscent of bands like Tame Impala, built on a foundation of soul and funk. Last year, he produced “No Guidance” by Chris Brown, featuring Drake, which was certified platinum and nominated for Best R&B song at the 62nd Annual Grammys.

AMY WEIRICH A near-30-year

veteran of the D.A.’s office, Weirich was appointed Shelby County District Attorney General in 2011, the first woman in Shelby County history to hold that job. She has been the subject of numerous controversies, including official rebukes from the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals and the state Board of Professional Gebre Waddell

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Responsibility. Weirich has pushed for harsher punishment for violent offenders and embraced innovative ways to prevent crime from happening in the first place. Formerly chief prosecutor of the Gang and Narcotics Prosecution Unit and division leader for the Special Prosecution Unit, she is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin and University of Memphis law school, and a recipient of the Bobby Dunavant Public Servant Award and Frances Loring Award. In 2020 Weirich was elected president of the Tennessee District Attorney’s General Conference, where she will play a pivotal role in guiding the overall administration of justice in Tennessee.

KIRK WHALUM Between his gospel roots in Memphis and

his 1980s initiation into the nightclub scene of Houston, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum has developed an unmistakable rich tenor sound. Early in his career, he was discovered by jazz pianist Bob James, with whom Whalum recorded five successful albums; both were nominated for a Grammy Award for their album Joined at the Hip. After moving to L.A., Whalum went on to play sessions with top artists like Barbra Streisand, Quincy Jones, and Whitney Houston. He has since recorded more than 25 successful solo projects. A 12-time Grammy nominee, Whalum won his first Grammy in 2011 for Best Gospel Song (“It’s What I Do” featuring Lalah Hathaway). An ordained minister, Whalum has a master’s degree in religion and hosts a daily podcast called Bible in Your Ear.

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Memphis Tigers, White has led the team to an overall record of 20-8, passing for 7,310 yards (fourth in school history) and 59 touchdowns. He and the 2019 team became the first in U of M history to win the American Athletic Conference championship and play in a prestigious New Year’s Six bowl game (the Cotton Bowl). They finished the season 12-2 and earned the highest final AP ranking (17th) in the history of the program. White became only the second Memphis quarterback to pass for 4,000 yards in a season. Having spent three years at Arizona State before transferring to Memphis, White will play the 2020 season as a Ph.D. candidate.

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MICHAEL WIGGINS

Named president of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in early 2019, Wiggins formerly served as senior vice president of clinical operations at the Children’s Medical Center in Plano, and as vice president of operations at the Children’s Hospital of Alabama in Birmingham. The Atlanta native holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Alabama in Birmingham and is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

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Memphis Magazine’s

THE 2020

FACE OF ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ADR)

DAVID WILLIAMS

When leaders need guidance, Williams is one of the first people they turn to. As president/CEO of Leadership Memphis since 2004, Williams pushes the bar higher. He is a former vice president of marketing and community development for St. Joseph Hospital, former board chair for the Memphis Public Library, and former board chair for Playhouse on the Square. In 2018, Leadership Memphis earned the Commitment Award from the Tennessee Center for Performance Excellence. Since then Leadership Memphis has continued to grow, in 2019 expanding to provide alumni support to program graduates.

DANA WILSON As president and CEO of BRIDGES since

2018, Wilson helps teach young people the necessary skills for leadership, problem-solving, and team-building. Her elevation marks the first time in the organization’s history that the board chose a staff member from within its own ranks as the next leader. Wilson, who was vice president of the Bridge Builders program at the time, joined BRIDGES in 2008 as a program coordinator. A native Memphian, she holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from George Washington University.

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PAT MITCHELL WORLEY

As executive director of Stax Music Academy, an after-school music instruction and youth development program, Mitchell Worley brings a diverse range of experience, having worked at Memphis in May International Festival, freelanced in rock music journalism, and been publicist for several musicians. After a stint in commercial radio, she became involved in 1996 with the Blues Foundation and its globally syndicated blues radio show Beale Street Caravan that she continues to host. In 2015 she launched FanfareCR, a community relations company for arts-centered nonprofits and businesses.

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ARTS

left: An interactive digital exhibit at the National Civil Rights Museum encourages activism. PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREA ZUCKER / MEMPHIS TOURISM

above: Live music at the Metal Museum’s gazebo. PHOTOGRAPH BY ALEX SHANSKY / MEMPHIS TOURISM

Museums Meet the Challenge

Cultural attractions hindered by social distancing aim to remain relevant. BY J O N W. S PA R K S

T

his year has done a brutal number on museums and other attractions that rely on a steady stream of visitors gathering, lingering, and sharing experiences. What you used to be able to do six months ago has been changed if not prohibited by the coronavirus pandemic.

How things will be a few months down the road can only be guessed at, depending on the status of a vaccine, the economy, and even the weather, the election, and the mood of America. But it’s the job of museum honchos to do their best prognosticating and plan accordingly. And at the core is the unsettling question: In the middle of the trifecta of crises — health, economic, and social — do museums still matter? We interviewed the leaders of four such places: Terri Lee Freeman at the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM), Emily Ballew Neff at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Kevin Sharp at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens, and Carissa Hussong at the Metal Museum.

SAFETY AND STAFFING

C

onsidering how singular 2020 has been and that no playbook existed that anticipated what’s been happening, the museums have responded in very similar fashion. For all of them, the mandate to close their operations in March was, as Freeman says, “hard to make only in that you want to make the absolute right decision to be able to take care of your staff.” At the Dixon, Sharp says, “my one really clearly self-articulated goal was do my best to keep everyone healthy.” The gardens at the Dixon were among the first places in the city to welcome back visitors following a period of closure. That was in early June and through the month, Sharp observed how people were reacting. “I would guess in the first three weeks, maybe we had 250 visitors,” he says. “They are wearing their masks as we’re requiring. They are social distancing. They’re being respectful of one another. It’s gone very, very smoothly on that front. But I think the trick more than anything is going to be to regain the confidence of our audience.” It’s not easy, he says, when what you’ve been accustomed to doing in the normal course of things is urging more people in the buildings, in the seats, at the exhibitions, in the gardens. “But now,” he says, “it’s ‘Come if you want to. It’s perfectly safe. But we understand if you’re just not ready.’”

The Metal Museum eased back into operation, first by opening the grounds and making available an audio tour of the sculptures. The grounds and gazebo are typically popular for gatherings and weddings, but, Hussong says, as of June, not much has been scheduled for the fall. “I think people are trying to move their events further out,” she says. The main museum building opened three days a week to the public in July. Not, however, the library — and metalworking demonstrations were put on hold. Hussong says the popular Repair Days event will happen, but will likely be approached differently. At the Brooks, the main gallery reopened to members and first responders early in July. It’s focusing on the “Native Voices” exhibition that had been on display when the museum had to close. Originally scheduled to end May 17th, the show has been extended through September 27th. Each of the four institutions endeavored to keep their staff as long as possible although furloughs became necessary for some, and bringing people back or refilling positions will be done carefully. “We’re going to wait until we feel a little bit better about what the next fiscal year is going to look like,” Hussong says. Freeman hopes the NCRM will have all its staff back by year’s end, but can’t be certain about capacity. The museum reopened in July, gingerly, using online ticket purchases and a limited number at that, timed throughout the day. There are sanitation stations and social distancing is maintained. Staffers get a daily temperature check, gloves are available, gift shop transactions are touchless. The plan is for the nearby Legacy Building to open in September. But September will also bring a new exhibition partnering with the Smithsonian on the Green Book, a guide book for Black travelers through Jim Crow America.

FUTURE PLANS

E

ven COVID-19 hasn’t been able to stop the planning and dreaming. A committee formed to find a new tenant for Rust Hall at the recently closed Memphis College of Art recommended to Mayor Jim Strickland that the Metal Museum go there. It offered a well-regarded plan that would meet its needs and preserve the essence of

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the building in Overton Park. The museum would keep its existing property on the river for artist residencies. Hussong says there’s great interest on the part of funders to make that expansion, despite the pandemic. Another long-term project is the relocation of the Brooks to Downtown, scheduled for 2025. Neff says that although it’s navigating the current crisis and planning to get through the next few months, the museum is proceeding with what it calls Brooks on the Bluff. “If anything,” she says, “what we’re hearing is that we should speed up the process and don’t slow down. The excitement is palpable.” The design concept for the new structure was to be revealed in March; the pandemic forced a postponement. But those who are backing the move are saying it’s a transformative project that needs to move ahead, Neff says.

MAINTAINING THEIR MISSION

E

ven when the buildings and grounds are closed and the money isn’t coming in, these cultural organizations have remained committed to staying visible and relevant. Crucial to that is the use of the internet and social media, which have become the primary point of contact between museums and visitors. Sharp says the Dixon’s education department prided itself on being analog — hands-on, being together, collaborating — and doing it in the new education building on the grounds. “And then suddenly everything turns to digital and virtual experiences,” he says. “But I’ve been rather amazed and impressed with the education team and the communications team for how quickly they adapted to the new circumstances.” He says the facility closed on March 22nd and by March 25th they were producing programming on Facebook and the website. At the Brooks, Neff says, “We’re just having to think differently about how we deliver on our mission, reach our audiences and build new audiences during this time.” The museum has virtual school tours lined up in the fall and is doing its Wacky Wednesdays program online, getting curriculum and activities out to members and the public for free. It also has put its literary salon online and launched a new partnership with Carpenter Art Garden in Binghampton. “One program I’m really proud of is the life drawing,” Neff says, “which filled a niche that we didn’t even know was desired in Memphis. It’s a passionate group of people who really depend on us to provide the live model and do a drawing class, and they were able to do that via Zoom throughout quarantine.” The proliferation of the use of online connections to the public has the added benefit of being a data gold mine. Neff says the Brooks had been wanting to measure its impact, so thanks to a grant from ArtsMemphis and the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, the museum has embarked on a project to measure data in a purposeful way. “A lot of what we’re doing became accelerated by these crises, and it really causes you to focus on your highest priorities and be hyper disciplined,” Neff says.

“One program I’m really proud of is the life drawing. It’s a passionate group of people who really depend on us to provide the live model and do a drawing class, and they were able to do that via Zoom throughout quarantine.”

STAYING RELEVANT

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ut beyond the high-tech engagement are other programming efforts to maintain relevance. The NCRM was hamstrung by the shutdown, but found that online events were effective, including a commemoration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on April 4th, just after the museum had to close. “We planned a significant digital commemoration, and it was outstanding,” Freeman says. “We had a lot more people actually view the commemoration than we would have had it been just in the courtyard of the museum.” She says the museum has always pushed out information on social media and screened some programming, “but we were not as intentional as I think we could have been. It was in our strategic — Emily Neff plan to begin this fiscal year, but the closing forced us to do it a little more quickly. We have beefed up our virtual programming, and that’s here to stay.” That presence has been amplified by the social protests and Black Lives Matter movement that have been going on nationwide since the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis in late May. The NCRM has been busy streaming programming relating to Black music, education, voting, and other topics. And when it comes to protests, Freeman notes that, “you know, the museum is really founded on the principle of protest as a right and protest as an effective way to create positive social change.” When the local protests began happening, many of them started or ended at the museum. “And it is because of what the museum represents,” Freeman says. “The museum is a symbol of what people want to be able to see in the future, which has positive social change that will propel us into a state of what was the hope of Dr. King, which was a beloved community.” The museum opened its doors for some meetings with activists, she says, because activism has a place in society. “One of the things we do know about activism — and it’s demonstrated and depicted on the walls of the museum — is that it’s never a one-and-done,” Freeman says. “People have to be tenacious. And my anticipation is that this is going to go on for a very long time.” For her facility, it is both a harrowing and an exciting time. “I see the incredible parallels between what we depict in the museum and what is actually happening on the ground,” Freeman says. “It’s energizing in a way to know that the people and the generations that folks had counted out as not being engaged, really are very engaged.” right: A sketch from the life drawing program at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art which was offered via Zoom during the quarantine. below: Spring flowers in full bloom at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens. PHOTOGRAPHS AND SKETCH BY BG

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MUSIC left: Marco Pavé. PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEY MILLER

above: CCDE with guest vocalist SvmDvde. PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID VAUGHN MASON

1927, “Mr. Crump Don’t Like It,” a sardonic celebration of the mayor’s moral code, as if it were made to be broken. Other blues and folk songs would feature topical themes. The Memphis Jug Band’s 1930 cover of “In the Jailhouse Now” dealt frankly with corruption:

Singing Truth to Power

Protest songs have been a part of the Memphis music scene for more than a century. BY ALEX GREENE

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mericana and rock-and-roll singer/songwriter John Paul Keith, a fixture on Beale Street, recently released a new song, “Take ’Em Down,” on social media. It’s a powerful call to arms against Confederate symbolism. But it begins, surprisingly, with a bit of Southern pride. “You can tell I’m from the South when I open up my mouth ...” he sings, before turning to the chorus, “Them statues got to go in every state across the USA!” This is no “white pride’”but a refashioning of what “Southern” can mean. As the song goes on, it’s clear that Keith is celebrating a new vision of Southernness that embraces our diversity. Can you hear the Southern feet marching in the street And someone saying on a megaphone No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA And we ain’t gonna rest until they’re gone. Like many of us, Keith was deeply moved by the #TakeEmDown901 movement, organized by Tami Sawyer, which claimed a major victory in December 2017 when statues of Ku Klux Klan founder Nathan Bedford Forrest and Confederate president Jefferson Davis were removed from Memphis parks. The songwriter’s latest work is a rare hybrid of blunt political observations and subtle identity politics, and it works. Yet Keith is not alone in perfecting this blend: It’s been the stock-in-trade of Memphis music for over a century.

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John Paul Keith

PHOTOGRAPH BY MATT WHITE

he blues, of course, have always offered both commentary on the powers that be and affirmation of Black identity and culture. So it’s a bit surprising that one of the city’s first political songs, and one of the first published blues tunes, was not a protest at all: W.C. Handy’s “Memphis Blues,” subtitled “Mr. Crump,” was based on a campaign song for Edward Hull Crump’s first mayoral bid in 1910. Oddly, it’s often mistaken for Frank Stokes’ less reverent political song from

I remember last election Jim Jones got in action Said he’s voting for the man that paid the biggest price Next day at the poll He voted with heart and soul But instead of voting once, he voted twice ... He’s in the jailhouse now. Others would sing of corrupt cops, as with Memphis Minnie’s “Reaching Pete.” But few of these could be construed as calls to march or protest. That all changed with the civil rights movement. The 1960s and ’70s were a golden age of the political song, and Memphis offered up countless examples, largely because of Stax Records. Most of the label’s socially engaged tracks were released in 1968 or after, under the politically astute guidance of label chairman and owner Al Bell, who consciously built bridges with civil rights activists, especially in Chicago. One byproduct of that was Stax signing the Staple Singers, already a popular gospel group trying to cross over to pop. As Bell recalled recently, “The Staple Singers were very close to Dr. King. And they would write, sing, and record songs that were motivational to those involved in the movement. I love ‘Reach out and touch a hand, make a friend if you can.’ And ‘Love comes in all colors.’ I mean, they spoke the word that Americans needed to hear, just to come together.” William Bell, a Stax artist then and now (no relation to Al), feels the same way. When I asked him to name his favorite politically engaged song from Memphis, he said, “I would have to say one of those Staples songs, like ‘Respect Yourself.’ Authenticity — Mavis Staples lived that. You feel it in every little nuance of her voice. Every time she utters a word, you can feel it.”

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But then he adds another song to the list, not normally considered political: “Respect,” by Otis Redding. “Otis recorded it and wrote it,” says Bell, “but Aretha made it hers, and she’s from Memphis also. So those two artists really contributed to a song that just, given the times that we were living in in those days, said it all.” It’s an important reminder from someone who experienced those times firsthand. Though it’s ostensibly about relationships, it encapsulated the basic demand of the entire movement in a single word; doubly so when Aretha imparted a feminist message to it. Another, less heralded Stax track from the early era is Mable Johns’ remarkable “Don’t Hit Me No More.” If “Respect” expressed frustration and jubilation in equal measure, Johns’ lyrics hit the listener square in the face with almost punk bluntness.

You don’t have to beat on me, so daddy, watch your hands And don’t you hit me no more Don’t hit me no more If I have to take another lick I’m gonna whip up a little trick.

Mable Johns

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY STAX

Such words grow from the Stax writers’ commitment to staying grounded in real life, more than any ideological goal, but that very quality puts it on par with Stax’s greatest songs. And it expresses the basic demand for dignity that lives on in the heart of today’s Black Lives Matter protests or the Women’s March on Washington. Much of Stax Records’ output had a socially empowering aspect, even when songs did not have political lyrics per se. David Porter, who co-wrote hundreds of Stax hits with Isaac Hayes, says, “‘Soul Man’ is the perfect example of a song that speaks about the pride inside of individuals who don’t have all the resources that others may have for whatever reason. It’s the fact that, even though I’m coming to you on a dirt road, coming to you from humble beginnings, there is a comfort level in who I feel I am and who I know I am. “And when he says, ‘I was educated in Woodstock,’ many people think they’re talking about the music festival, but the festival had not even been created then. There was a county school out near Millington called Woodstock. So it had more to do with, ‘I’m going to, in the best way I can, get an education, to feel all the dignity and pride I have — which makes me a soul man, a man of accomplishment and abilities, regardless of the circumstances. I’m dealing with it.’ The multitude of meanings inside of that song become an informational kinda thing.”

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The world is hanging by a string America and Korea just itching to light the fuse The fuse our degenerate in chief Clown prince God emperor has already lit! But others soon took the impulse in heavier directions. One of the sharpest purveyors of political pith since the 1980s has been onetime Memphian Joe Lapsley, now a college history instructor in the Chicago area. “I’m the lead singer of Neighborhood Texture Jam,” says Lapsley. “If anybody knows about having to explain progressive issues to white people in Memphis, it would be me.” With songs like “Rush Limbaugh, Evil Blimp,” NTJ made no bones about their leftist tendencies. “Wanna see the rebel flags, wanna go and see ’em?” Lapsley bellows in “Old South.” “They’re next to the swastikas in a museum!” At times, Lapsley took the lyrics a step further, shredding or burning Confederate flags in their early shows. “Listening to Texture Jam back then,” Lapsley says now, “you were getting a taste of Black Lives Matter before it even happened.” Pezz was formed in 1989, gained traction in the ’90s, and carries on today. Their 2017 release, More Than You Can Give Us, updates the Reagan-era punk that first inspired them to fit the twenty-first century, as captured by the album cover: an image from the 1968 sanitation workers’ strike juxtaposed with one of protesters shutting down the I-40 bridge in 2016. Pezz frontmen Ceylon Mooney and Marvin Stockwell carry on to this day as community organizers and activists. Yet songs of political or social critique need not wear their outrage on their sleeve. Bassist MonoNeon wrote “Breathing While Black” after seeing the first footage of George Floyd’s murder under the knee of a Minneapolis policeman, but gave his outrage the soft-sell. “While the song came from being saddened by George’s murder, the song is for every black man and woman that has dealt with police brutality,” he says. And the mellow mood set by the sparse funk and quirky harmonies makes the track a universal song of mourning, in a way, with enough bounce to keep listeners motivated.

ther labels from the era created socially aware music as well. Dan Penn, who produced many hits for American Studios in Memphis, released a rare solo album in 1972 with the song “Skin,” in which he intoned, “Aw, skin. Ever thought about skin? No one seems to know which bandwagon to hop on … some wheels with guts and do right principles do right until they’re shot down … People sure are proud of their skin. It’s just skin.” The later ’70s brought new changes, like punk rock. right: David Porter. In its earliest days, punk was more an attitude than PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DAVID PORTER a particular sound. One decidedly punk move at the below: Pezz with Ceylon Mooney time was when roots rockers Mudboy & the Neuand Marvin Stockwell. trons did a local take on John Lennon’s “Power to the PHOTOGRAPH BY DON PERRY People.” “Hey hey, MHA, someone moved downtown away,” sang Mudboy member Jim Dickinson, referring to the Memphis Housing Authority. “I’ve got a new way to spell Memphis, Tennessee: M-I-C, K-E-Y, M-O-U-S-E!” That era also saw the debut of Tav Falco, who sang Leadbelly’s “Bourgeois Blues,” then cut his guitar in two with a circular saw. With his Unapproachable Panther Burns, he would continue to dip into political waters for decades, with songs like “Agitator Blues,” “Cuban Rebel Girl,” or even 2018’s “New World Order Blues”:

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And according to David Porter, motivation and inspiration is key. Brandon Lewis, a new artist with Porter’s Made In Memphis Entertainment (MIME) label, has just released a track which relates indirectly to the current Black Lives Matter movement, titled simply “Black Man.” As Porter says, “‘Black Man’ is not a protest song, it’s an inspirational song about enlightened people, about the pride that these young people feel today. Because I know you’re viewing me as a Black man, let me let you feel the pride that I have in being a Black man. That’s why that hook works.” Proffering a positive message of self-affirmation is a far cry from burning the stars and bars on stage, but effective in its own right. As with “Soul Man” and other Stax hits in the ’60s, at the heart of the song and today’s movement is a demand for dignity and respect.

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n the other end of the spectrum, hip hop has explored the idea of respect in more confrontational ways. Having erupted out of New York in the late ’70s, rap has now conquered the world, so permeating Memphis culture that, for many, the city is synonymous with the genre. Khari Wynn, son of local music writer Ron Wynn, remembers first hearing rap as a child. One hit that resonated with young Khari was Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” in which New York-based rapper Chuck D announced, “Elvis was a hero to most, but he never meant shit to me!” Little did Wynn realize that one day his talent would lead him to join the group, with whom he’s played guitar for nearly 20 years. One of the first Public Enemy tracks that Wynn had a hand in was 2002’s “Son of Bush”:

Have you forgotten? I’ve been through the first term of rotten The father, the son and the holy Bush-shit we all in Don’t look at me, I ain’t callin for no assassination I’m just sayin, sayin Who voted for that asshole of your nation?

Khari Wynn

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY PUBLIC ENEMY

It’s the yin to the yang of “Soul Man.” In that sense, it’s closer to what makes Memphis a dominant force in music today: hip hop. But not much of the trap music ruling the airwaves now is overtly political. I asked Wynn who he thought the Memphis equivalent of Public Enemy might be. “The Iron Mic Coalition,” he said without a pause, and that echoes a consensus throughout the city. Though inactive since the untimely death of group member Fathom 9 (with whom Wynn worked), the Iron Mic Coalition (IMC) are the undisputed kings of this realm, sometimes called conscious or knowledge rap. When producer IMAKEMADBEATS first returned to Memphis in 2011, having spent the early aughts in New York, the first Memphians to capture his attention were the Iron Mic Coalition. As IMAKEMADBEATS recalls, “While IMC had various talents, Fathom 9 was the most left-wing. I think that’s why I gravitated towards him early on. I went to his funeral, and I heard people say, ‘Fathom was weird in a way that made us be okay with being weird.’ He had no shame. He was past the point of comfortable and cute. … He was daringly uncomfortable.”

top left: Chinese Connection Dub Embassy. PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREA ZUCKER / MEMPHIS TOURISM

above: Neighborhood Texture Jam. PHOTOGRAPH BY DON PERRY

A more recent purveyor of conscious rap is Marco Pavé. His 2017 debut album, Welcome to Grc Lnd, was a shot across the bow of complacency, with lyrics like “Bring me a coffin / ’Cos they won’t accept that I am so fluorescent / they place us in darkness / I still see ancestors” capturing the same zeitgeist that inspired Pezz. Blocking the I-40 bridge in 2016 was a turning point for both public demonstrations here, and the artists who were inspired by them.

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eyond hip hop, the Chinese Connection Dub Embassy (CCDE) is one of the few reggae bands in the region, and one of the most politically outspoken. “We’re all about truth and rights,” says Joseph Higgins, “and spreading the word of injustice, and trying to get some kind of solace at the end of the day.” The band played their new single, “Dem A Callin (Flodgin),” for protesters at City Hall in June. “I won’t be bought, I won’t be sold. We will decide how our story’s told … Dem a callin’!” sings guest vocalist Webbstar. But CCDE is only one example. In fact, it’s only one example from within the Higgins family. Out of that same household sprang the hardcore punk band Negro Terror, who were equally unabashed about calling for progressive change. Sadly, the guiding light of both bands was the oldest Higgins brother, Omar, whose sudden death after a staph infection in April 2019 was mourned throughout the city. Says brother David of the two bands: “They both were started by Omar out of his love of music and community. He wanted to start a big musical family. And your color, race, religion, sexuality didn’t matter. And that’s how we were brought up. Our whole family is all about truth and rights, fighting against oppression and injustice. My mother was a member of the Urban League. So it’s in our blood. As far as Negro Terror, it’s still going! We’re actually finishing up a new record, Paranoia. Omar’s all over it.” As Joseph Higgins reflects, “It’s been a slow drip. It’s hard to educate people one by one. With Negro Terror, the name and the concept, Omar was able to not only preach the message of unity, but to teach. And get people to not just understand, but overstand.”

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enjoyed a head-coaching debut unlike any other, leading the Tigers against Penn State in the PHOTOGRAPH BY LARRY KUZNIEWSKI Cotton Bowl.) Then it all stopped. All of it. The Tigers and Grizzlies played a winter of basketball, Morant running away in the Rookie of the Year race and the Tigers’ second-best freshman (Precious Achiuwa) earning AAC Player of the Year honors. But Grizzly playoff prospects and a chance for the 21-10 Tigers to reach the NCAA’s “Big Dance” via the AAC tournament hit the invisible wall — less forgiving than brick-and-mortar — we’ll remember as the coronavirus pandemic. At least Memphis basketball fans saw something. Both of AutoZone Park’s tenants — the Redbirds and 901 FC — remained dormant as March turned to April, then April to May and June. An operation that relies almost entirely on the ticket-buying public found itself an oversized shell — all that brick-and-mortar — unable to entertain, to create the warm-weather buzz Bluff City fans had come to crave … and take for granted. The announcement in June that the Southern Heritage Classic would not be played this year seemed especially cruel. The football game between Jackson State and Tennessee State — a September clash at the Liberty Bowl since 1990 — represented not just African-American sports, but African-American enterprise, culture, and outreach, its accompanying parade through Orange Mound among this city’s most distinctive gatherings … and impossible What do we cheer when no games are played? during a pandemic. That almost-perfect feeling disappeared in such devastating BY F R A N K M U R TA U G H fashion, and with losses that compounded just as positive rates t felt almost perfect, in that “too-good- among COVID-19 testing fluctuated uncomfortably high. Instead of to-be-true” territory the most passionate fans have micro-analyzing Hardaway’s third recruiting class, many of us were grown to fear. On November 5th at FedExForum, the counting masks among those we saw in public. Who is taking safety Memphis Tigers opened the most anticipated basketball guidelines seriously, and who has simply had enough of pandemic season in over a decade with a drubbing of the South protocol? Can a community live without sports? Certainly. Is it the kind of life we’ll have to identify as that fabled “new normal”? We Carolina State Bulldogs. James Wiseman — the crown can only hope not. Ja Morant: Grizzlies’ super-rookie.

SPORTS

The Ghosting of Memphis Sports

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jewel in coach Penny Hardaway’s top-ranked recruiting class — scored 28 points and pulled down 11 rebounds in merely 22 minutes on the court. But Wiseman’s squad wasn’t the only Top-20 team in town. Three days earlier, with ESPN’s College GameDay crew placing the Tiger football program on the brightest stage it had ever seen — has Beale Street ever been so packed? the Liberty Bowl so truly blue? — Memphis upset SMU thanks to a record-setting night by Antonio Gibson (386 all-purpose yards!). The Memphis Grizzlies appeared to have the NBA’s most dynamic rookie when Ja Morant put up 30 points and nine assists in his third game. And it wasn’t just what we saw unfolding as Thanksgiving approached; the horizon appeared glowing. Tim Howard — the Tim Howard, the most recognizable living American soccer star — would take an active ownership role with 901 FC, the local USL Championship outfit. And it appeared one of baseball’s top prospects — St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Dylan Carlson — was on his way to AutoZone Park for some fine-tuning with the Triple-A Redbirds. But there’s a reason fans fear “almost perfect.” Before his second game, Wiseman learned he’d been declared ineligible by the NCAA for having received moving expenses from his future college coach (Hardaway) in 2017. He played two more games as the university appealed the decision, but upon accepting would never wear blue and gray again. The Tiger football team won the program’s first American Athletic Conference championship — right here at the Liberty Bowl — on December 7th, only to see beloved coach Mike Norvell depart for Florida State the next day. (Ryan Silverfield

“I coach and mentor young people who are hurting, angry, and expressing themselves in the only way they know how. They want justice, fairness, and to be treated as human beings. Some are looking to me for answers and I do not take that lightly.” — University of Memphis basketball coach Penny Hardaway (June 8th) In the aftermath of George Floyd’s death — the 46-year-old choked under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer on May 25th — two images were paired and shared all over social media. One showed that ruthless officer, kneeling on Floyd’s neck, while the other showed former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, kneeling (in 2016) to protest the mistreatment of African Americans in the United States. Both images stirred outrage in segments of the American population. (Kaepernick has not thrown a pass in the NFL since 2016.) But only one of them showed a man dying. Sports may have felt absent — lost, even — before Floyd’s murder. As thousands of Americans took to the streets to protest police brutality, though, a new layer of emptiness became part of the shutdown: Sports didn’t seem to matter. For the first time in almost three months, legitimate American crowds were seen on live television, most people wearing masks, an acknowledgment that human proximity in the time of a pandemic brings danger, no matter how worthy the cause for gathering. There was no cheering in these open-air arenas, though, and the chants had little to do with

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winning a game or championship. Instead, there were chants for justice, for the end of racist-driven brutality, for African Americans to enjoy the most fundamental, basic freedom of all: to breathe. The Black Lives Matter movement — amplified in the aftermath of Floyd’s murder — somehow made the silent game nights in Memphis less of a void. Had there been a Redbirds home stand the week of June 1st, would Memphians have enjoyed their barbecue nachos while images on the stadium’s flat screens showed protesters being sprayed outside the White House as the American president cleared a path for a photo op? That colorized smoke Memphians have come to love before and during a 901 FC match looks all too similar to the chemicals that dispersed Americans merely exercising their right to assemble. Sports are a distraction, sure, but they can distract only so much. The anguish brought statues back into the headlines, particularly those of long-dead “heroes” of the Confederacy. In Richmond, Virginia, city leaders announced plans to remove the bronze replica of the most revered of all Confederate generals, Robert E. Lee. (Tennessee legislators, alas, stubbornly refuse to closet a bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest in the state’s capitol building.) These statues matter. Their removal matters, a more-than-symbolic statement about an era of hatred and racism that must never again be celebrated. That noose — rope-pull? — in NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace’s Talladega garage in June may have been there for months. Maybe hate wasn’t behind the image. But NASCAR’s reaction — that glorious march of drivers and pit crews in unison behind Wallace’s car on race day — was a vivid reminder of how far we’ve yet to travel for racial justice. Here in Memphis, we no longer see statues of Forrest or Jefferson Davis in Downtown parks. Better yet, we’ll soon see a statue go up, one of Larry Finch, the Memphis Tiger basketball legend who shined so brightly in the aftermath of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination in 1968. The city will gain a memorial to an African-American sports figure doing what athletes do best: bringing communities together. How far might the symbolism — for brotherhood and tolerance — stretch in the year 2020? Minus the games we’re used to cheering, Finch’s statue will be an outsized reason for applause, especially in the context of a world trembling with unrest. Larry Finch made Memphis better, and we can be better still. Let him remain a standard. A pandemic erased sports from the Memphis landscape, but only temporarily. A concurrent movement gave sports a perspective Memphians — and an entire country — desperately needed. Perspective we must hope long outlives the pandemic.

“Just as every restaurant, company, and organization across the country has had to change the way they operate to keep their customers safe, we’re having to do the same thing. … You can be assured, we’ll manage it appropriately.” — University of Memphis athletic director Laird Veatch (June 11th) Picture the Liberty Bowl packed with 59,000 fans for that epic win over SMU last November, ESPN’s cameras broadcasting that sold-out football frenzy for the entire country to enjoy. Picture it now, because you won’t see it again — a football stadium packed to capacity — anytime soon. The University of Memphis has already disclosed the likelihood of limited seating — perhaps only season-ticket holders — if football games are played this fall. The aim, of course, is to practice a form of social distancing in an environment built for the precise opposite. The current pandemic became the first — in these human

lifetimes — to quite literally shut down the way we live, work, and play on a global scale. The global shutdown has stretched the thinking capacity of the world’s smartest scientists, to say nothing of what it’s done mentally to the rest of us. So what can be expected of leaders like Veatch in the realm of sports, where just about every instinct — starting with the gathering of people to, you know, watch — feels counterintuitive? For longtime followers of the Tiger football program, the jokes write themselves:

“Social distance? Did you attend a game during the Larry Porter years?”

“Masks at a football game? Have you eaten French fries at the Liberty Bowl?”

The Tigers have played more than 50 years in a stadium about 20,000 seats too large. Until they started winning conference championships, that is. That oversized bowl may turn into a blessing as pandemic conditions persist. Arkansas State and UT-Martin — to name two opponents Memphis is scheduled to host this year — are unlikely to draw a crowd much larger than 30,000. Smallish groups (10 people? 20?) may be asked to sit together, and visits to the restroom, as uncomfortable as it sounds, will likely be regimented and monitored. (Even a crowd as small as 10,000 would make, say, “two visitors at a time” all but impossible in a public restroom.) Here’s the thing: We have to try. Carefully and intelligently, but we have to try to play games again. Major League Baseball is scheduled to return later this month, a 60-game season of regional play that will, hopefully, be followed by a postseason and World Series in October. (It will be a cruel tease for fans of the Memphis Redbirds, as minor-league teams will not be stocked with players this year.) The World Golf Championships-FedEx St. Jude Invitational has been rescheduled for July 30-August 2 at TPC Southwind. Golf is among the few sports made for a pandemic, where the view on television can be a better experience than hiking a course with a gallery of fellow fans. If the players and tournament officials can be properly monitored and cared for, the WGC could be an unforgettable — and singular — highlight of the Memphis sports summer. There’s a reason beyond cheering and championships to find our way back to spectator sports. Games we play move dollars we spend. “If things play out as we’re currently projecting, it will be a seven-figure impact — to the negative — for the [athletic] department,” says Veatch in describing the financial hit the U of M will take in a reduced-seating world for football and men’s basketball. “We’re trying to get our heads around how to manage that appropriately.” The absence of sports — locally and worldwide — has been traumatic, but hardly tragic. Not when the COVID-19 death toll worldwide has climbed above half a million. Not when the United States has become the global test case for how not to manage a killer contagion. No, the absence of sports has been merely a painful casualty of a global crisis. More patience required. More determination. We’ll remember 2020 as the year we learned it’s not so much our right to cheer our favorite teams, but a privilege. Brady White: 2019 AAC champion. PHOTOGRAPH BY LARRY KUZNIEWSKI

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PHOTOGRAPH BY CLEWISLEAKE | DREAMSTIME

FAITH left: The Justice and Equity Charter release rally at City Hall in 2020. PHOTOGRAPH BY MELVIN SMITH

“Action Is In Our Name”

MICAH brings people together to change Memphis for the better. BY CHRIS MCCOY

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he Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action and Hope (MICAH) may be the biggest Bluff City organization you’ve never heard of. The Reverend Dr. Stacy Spencer, founder of the New Direction Christian Church in Hickory Hill, says MICAH grew from the grassroots four years ago. “It was 2016 when Darrius Stewart was shot in the front yard of my church, my youth campus,” he says. “That disturbed me to the point where I really wanted to do something about it. I got with a group of pastors and we started to talk about stopping the violence in our city. And then maybe a year later, we had a group from Nashville to come here called NOAH [Nashville Organized for Action and Hope] who talked to us about starting a social justice group in Memphis to hold our city leaders accountable.” Spencer calls MICAH “an organization of organizations. … From those six people in the basement, we’re now up to 60-plus churches, mosques, synagogues, nonprofits, and labor unions.” He quotes Jesse Jackson: “‘We must experience the resurrection in the same place where there was a crucifixion.’ For me, having been born in 1968, I find it not coincidental that I’m a native of Kentucky, but I’m in Memphis because I want to experience the resurrection of the city and the place where Dr. King was crucified.” Though Spencer is the titular leader, MICAH is not a traditional, hierarchical organization. “The thing that keeps us together are three guiding issues,” he says, “which are economic equity, educational equity, and intercultural and immigration equity.” On June 15th, as people spurred into action by the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police took to the Memphis streets, Spencer and Janiece Lee, MICAH’s vice president, backed by a cheering crowd of more than 100 people, taped MICAH’s Justice and Equity Charter for Memphis and Shelby County to the fence surrounding City Hall. The document outlined specific steps to address issues of police accountability, criminal justice reform, economic inequality, and corporate responsibility. MICAH’s focus is to create a more equal and — Reverend Dr. Stacy Spencer equitable Memphis through systemic change by

“The thing that keeps us together are three guiding issues, which are economic equity, educational equity, and intercultural and immigration equity.”

leveraging collective action on a broad scale. Together, the organizations that make up the coalition represent more than 30,000 residents of Shelby County. “Collective action works much better than individual action,” says Ernie Hilliard, co-chair of the Immigration & Intercultural Equity task force. “You can get so much more done together than each organization can separately. Think about it. These are voters. These are the ones that put our elected officials in office. And that’s where the power comes from, by way of getting extra leverage.” Talk to MICAH’s officers and you’ll hear again and again the sense that they are following a calling. “I’m in this work because I don’t think that there’s any place else to be right now,” says Lee. “I just don’t think that my faith allows me to sit by when people are treated unjustly.” Memphis churches and nonprofits have a reputation for being among the most generous and effective philanthropic forces in the country. But that doesn’t always have the salutary effect that one might imagine, says Meggan Kiel, the group’s organizer and interim executive director. “You drive around Memphis and you see a church or a place of worship on every corner, sometimes four to a corner,” says Kiel. “We hear about the levels of philanthropy in our city, but then you read the poverty reports every year, and you see that it keeps getting worse. The faith community is doing so much direct service, but not really looking upstream to ask, what are the systemic issues? How can we apply our faith and our values to look upstream? What is causing us to have so many diaper drives, to give away so many turkeys at Thanksgiving? We shouldn’t be celebrating doing more each year. We should want to do less. We should want to decrease the need.” To achieve their goals, Kiel says MICAH first concentrates on amplifying voices. “When an organization comes on board with MICAH, the first thing we do is a one-on-one training, so that there can be a listening campaign,” she says. “We always start with listening. Our issues didn’t come from the top down. They came from the bottom up. We had an issue convention exactly two years ago in June

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“Part of our objectives with our criminal justice work 2018 at Lindenwood Christian Church. At that point, here is to do systemic reform, looking at systemic we had about 40 or so partners. Each congregation racism and systemic injustice, across the board,” he or organization did their own listening campaign, says. “It’s a tough slog. The whole matter of criminal and they caucused like a political convention.” justice reform is something that is long overdue. It’s MICAH’s frontline troops are the task forces something that is so necessary.” designed to tackle the organization’s three-pronged Ruth Abigale Smith, MICAH’s lead power analyst, goals. Samantha Bradshaw is the co-chair of the says MICAH’s public meetings are the lifeblood Economic Equity task force. “My passion is for the of the movement. “We cultivate relationships with inner city of Memphis, because I am a product of the decision-makers and hold them accountable,” she city and I wanted to be able to give back.” says. “Obviously, elected officials and key folks in Bradshaw’s task force has tackled the issue of government, but not just that — business leaders, redlining, a practice of soft discrimination where organizational leaders, community leaders, and banks are reluctant to lend in Black communities. just people who understand that all of us play a role MICAH’s approach is to cultivate relationships with in moving things along and moving the needle in organizations and then hold them accountable to Memphis.” keep their promises through open meetings, as they MICAH’s last public meeting in September 2019 did with First Horizon bank. attracted nearly 2,000 people, says Lee. “They were “What we found in Orange Mound is that a lot hugely successful. … We got those officials into of people are looking for small business loans,” she that space of the public meeting, where we make a says. “So we’re holding First Horizon to the ground very public ask of them, and had them commit yes to make sure that they are reinvesting these dollars or no. So that then in the future, we can hold them back into the communities that they neglected to — Ruth Abigale Smith accountable, because they’ve had to do it in that give loans to. They committed to us publicly that public setting.” they will give us reports on a yearly basis of what This year has seen a surge in public activism, Lee continues. “We loans have been given, and what loans they are looking into, as well have seen a tremendous increase in interest in partnerships from both as hiring a community person who will be totally responsible for individuals and organizations. I think that people know that change is this area.” coming, and they’re trying to figure out what that looks like, and how MICAH was instrumental in getting Shelby County government to they can be a part of it.” commit to paying all of its employees a $15/hour minimum wage. “We MICAH is not just interfaith and racially diverse, but also attracts advocated on behalf of them, and are also making sure that they have young people like Youth Council Chair Ximena Villa, a ninth-grader adequate paid sick leave and family time leave. All of these things will at White Station High School. “My parents, ever since I was little, help with economic equity in the community,” says Bradshaw. were activists, and they always involved me in their social work for Access to transportation is a major issue for people trying to lift social equity,” says Villa. “So, this is one of the ways that I follow in themselves out of poverty — and transportation is an area where their footsteps, and this is one of the ways where I see what’s wrong Bradshaw says Memphis lags behind other cities. “I had an internship, and what’s right with my community. I seek justice and opportunity and I had to use the transit system to get to the job I had been hired for all the people in my community.” for. I currently work in corporate America, but I know what it feels MICAH’s members seek systemic change, but their methods like not to have adequate resources, or even the way to get at those are surprisingly simple, says Kiel. “Our systems benefit from lack adequate resources. … It took me going to other cities and just of relationship across differences in Memphis, whether it’s race, vacationing there to find out I can pay $3 and get from one side of or whether it’s geographical, or generational, or whatever. … Our Chicago all the way to the other side of Chicago.” community organizing philosophy is one-on-one conversations. It’s Hilliard, who runs a prison ministry with Hope Presbyterian not revolutionary. It’s getting to know our neighbors.” Church, has been busy during the COVID-19 pandemic advocating for increased testing and safer conditions for incarcerated persons.

“We cultivate relationships with decision-makers and hold them accountable — business leaders, organizational leaders, community leaders, and just people who understand that all of us play a role in moving things along and moving the needle in Memphis.”

below: Ximena Villa (third from left) leads the MICAH Youth Council.

right: The Rev. Stacy Smith and Janiece Lee post MICAH’s Justice and Equity Charter at City Hall.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MELVIN SMITH

PHOTOGRAPH BY MELVIN SMITH

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Biz 901

Commercial Development in the Age of COVID

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emphis and its environs have been amping up commercial developments in recent years. It looked like nothing would stop the boom until 2020 came along and flipped everything over. In a matter of months, the world experienced a pandemic, an economic collapse, and a growing social justice movement. But don’t underestimate momentum and hope. As of this writing, the stock market is humming merrily along and the builders are still building. We take a look at a couple of local commercial development projects that are moving along, undeterred by the upheaval. And we examine what’s been going on in the hospitality industry, which Memphis relies on heavily and did take a big hit.

THE EDGE DISTRICT BY J O N W. S PA R K S

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ary Prosterman likes to get into his projects quietly. “Keep your head down and do your thing,” he says. And so it’s been with his development in the Edge District. His Development Services Group (DSG) started acquiring properties there five years ago — quietly — and has been taking it a step at a time, looking for the best solutions to make the neighborhood as vital as possible. Prosterman is quick to acknowledge that he wasn’t the one first on the scene with big ideas. “There were pioneers there even before we were,” he says. Pinkney Herbert’s Marshall Arts. Mike Todd’s neighborhood association, calling the area “The Heart of Memphis, the Edge of Downtown.” The High Cotton Brewing Company. The Edge Alley coffee shop and restaurant. The area extends roughly from Sun Studio on the east end to AutoZone Park on the west, and Jefferson Avenue to the north and Beale Street to the south. The street configurations were long ago determined by railroads and rail spurs, most gone now although one still runs up next to the old Memphis Publishing Company building that used to deliver huge rolls of newsprint to The Commercial Appeal and the Memphis Press-Scimitar. In the middle of the twentieth century, the Edge was packed with automobile dealerships. Elvis Presley got his start in the neighborhood at Sun, and spent many dollars at the nearby Cadillac dealer. But the Edge has been looking for a new identity and some people, such as Todd and Prosterman, see how it can deliver as a residential, commercial, retail, and cultural center. “We’re probably most proud that there are so many projects beyond the pieces of property that we’ve acquired that have developed and are continuing to develop,” Prosterman

A vintage Cadillac at the Edge Motor Museum

says. Already in the neighborhood are a mix of businesses, including PKM Architects, the Edge Motor Museum, Chef Tam’s Underground Café, Karen Adams Designs, Holliday Flowers. And looming large is the old Memphis Publishing Company building that recently underwent a $51 million build-out into a hospital facility for potential COVID-19 patients. But Prosterman’s plans are doing much to define the area. One of his most significant and earliest contributions was the Orion Federal Credit Union headquarters where the old Wonder Bread Bakery had been for years. “We had acquired the entire bakery and intended to do adaptive reuse of the part that we thought was architecturally significant,” he says. The idea was to develop it for Orion and be the landlord, but to accommodate the credit union’s vision would have meant charging rent well above market, so it was agreed that Orion would buy it. “It frankly exceeded everyone’s expectations,” Prosterman says. “It’s probably the coolest office space in Memphis.” The Rise — the nearby 199-unit apartment building — is complete along with the 481-space parking deck. Although most leasing tours are virtual due to the pandemic, the

leasing has gone better than expected and DSG hopes it will be fully occupied by fall. The tenant breakdown is about 60 percent to 70 percent working or studying at one of the nearby healthcare facilities, and the rest, as Prosterman says, see it as a cool place to live. He calls it a very current high-end suburban type property but in the middle of the city with a club room, fitness center, and swimming pool that he says is rare for this part of town. Across the street from Orion is LEO Events, which wanted to own its space. LEO is on the ground floor and Montgomery Martin general contractors has an office on the second floor. What may be the most intriguing part of the development is what will be the Ravine Park. It’s an abandoned rail easement that runs from about Madison and Lauderdale south to Union Avenue. “We acquired the old Glass Factory building [on Madison],” Prosterman says, “which included the easement.” Construction has begun on converting the easement into a public park. The 30,000-square-foot Glass Factory building will become a brewery and tap room for Memphis Made Brewing Company. This will be in addition to its plant in the Cooper-Young area that it will keep. The Memphis Cycle Shop building sits on Monroe at Lauderdale. It’s not in good shape but has fine architecture and DSG is looking to list it on the National Register of Historic Places and develop it with opportunity zone funds. Prosterman hopes to get that project under way in the fourth quarter of this year. Throughout the year, he’s had to deal with the pandemic in one fashion or another. “We definitely have hit a bump in the road with COVID,” Prosterman says, noting that the neighborhood won’t reach full potential until what he’s doing is supplemented by more retail, restaurants, coffee shops, and other such enterprises now most severely affected by the crisis. He, however, is able to continue with what he’s been working on in the Edge for five years. “We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing,” he says. “We’re fortunate to have the capital partners that we have and fortunate that I’m not at the beginning of my career, or we wouldn’t have the staying power to keep going.”

PHOTO CREDITS: EDGE MOTOR MUSEUM BY ALEX SHANSKY / MEMPHIS TOURISM

The pandemic has put the brakes on some endeavors and let others go full speed ahead.

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03 2018

project location size project type

6263 Poplar Towers Memphis, TN 110,000 sf Office - Renovation

100 Peabody Place, Memphis, TN 38103 • 901.260.7370 • www.belzdesignbuild.com

©Jeffrey Jacobs Photography

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/ DEVELOPMENT

THE HOSPITALIT Y BUSINESS BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

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he coronavirus has wrought havoc across the country, but the sucker punch delivered to the hospitality industry hit especially hard. “In the month of May, we ran a 17 percent occupancy,” says Wayne Tabor, president of the Metropolitan Memphis Hotel & Lodging Association (MMHLA). “That month normally runs up in the 80s.” Downtown Memphis has borne the brunt of the hospitality storm. With tourism, meetings, and conventions all significantly reduced, large hotels have a surplus of space, and few visitors to fill it. Smaller economy and midscale hotels farther east have been performing better, but the overall numbers are still low. The per“Cleaning and centages have been creeping back up, sanitation is our however, with a few business, and that twists along the way. holds whether we're At the end of June, hotel o c cup a nc y in a pandemic or rates sat at around not. Even before 50 percent — still this came along, we not great, but sigcantly better than were always looking nifi nearby markets like at ways to keep Nashville and New Orleans. According people safe from to Tabor, the uptick everyday viruses and came when Beale sicknesses.” Street and restaurants were allowed to —WAYNE TABOR, reopen. “Demand has MMHL A PR ESIDENT started building back up a little bit,” says Tabor. “But Downtown, in June and July, we need to be at 80 percent.” “I think we’re in a plateau period right now,” Tabor said in an interview in mid-July. “We started trending upward, but with everything going on, it’s difficult. I’m trying to make sure we stay in business, but I don’t want anyone to catch the virus.” With the number of Shelby County cases surging in recent weeks, as of this writing (mid-July), the path back to where hotels need to be might be further away than anticipated. With bars shuttered once again in July and restaurants at a reduced capacity, hotels look to an influx of small meetings. “In Phase Two [of the reopening stages], we’re only allowed to host meetings of up to 50 people,” Tabor says. “You’re not going to see a lot of meetings with only 50 people. Phase Three will take us up to 200, and that’s what

we’ll need to start getting back to where we need to be.” Hospitality has one major advantage: a long history of innovative sanitation practices. “Cleaning and sanitation is our business,” says Tabor. “And that holds whether we’re in a pandemic or not. Even before this came along, we were always looking at ways to keep people safe from everyday viruses and sicknesses.” Along with cleaning procedures, some safety strategies may see an accelerated implementation. Most major brands were al-

time international industry ground to a halt earlier this year, One Beale was in fine shape. The project’s first phase, the 232-room luxury apartments, is ahead of schedule, with pre-leasing expected to begin this fall. Meanwhile, the 227-room Hyatt Centric at Beale and Front is set to open in February 2021. “We were in the process of moving and sourcing a lot of stuff pre-COVID that became very beneficial when COVID did hit,” says CEO Chance Carlisle. “When China shut down for its new year [in February], we were

Rendering of One Beale

worried that they weren’t going to re-open. Meanwhile, our partners in Hyatt also have an extensive hospitality footprint, so we were attuned to what was going on and could minimize those effects on our process.” And with construction green-lit as essential when the lockdown began in March, Carlisle Corp. went full steam ahead. “It was a boon to this economy and our project specifically,” says Carlisle. “We were able to actually accelerate some of our schedules as other parts of the country shut down.” Carlisle Corp. will soon announce phase three of the One Beale project, a yet-unnamed boutique hotel. In the meantime, the developer is also putting plans together for the old Nylon Net building at 7 Vance Ave. The proposed apartments would leave Carlisle Corp.’s fingerprints all over the riverfront. “We’ve always considered the Memphis waterfront to be an untapped asset, for everything from public use to generating tourism taxes” says Carlisle. “Looking at the One Beale footprint, 7 Vance, and the Kemmons Wilson headquarters [the old Spaghetti Warehouse at 40 West Huling], there are five great parcels to develop. You can really build a close connection between Tom Lee Park and the rest of Downtown, and we see it as a natural extension to continue the residential and hospitality density there.”

ready experimenting with these innovations, says Tabor, but something visitors should get used to seeing is an app that can handle most guest functions: Think mobile check-in, scanning a phone to open a door, or settling the bill remotely. Other approaches rehaul the mini-fridge concept. Instead of snacks and liquor in their rooms, guests now have a full complement of sanitation products. At economy hotels, breakfast buffets are replaced by pre-packaged goods. If a tourist has concerns about any aspect of the hospitality experience, it’s a safe bet that hotels will have come up with a countermeasure or alternative to keep the experience as safe as possible. Downtown has been the strongest market for Memphis traditionally, and Tabor expects it to get back to the top. “I don’t know if we’ll have that V-shaped recovery we want, but we’ll get through it.”

ONE BEALE BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

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hen the pandemic hit, Carlisle Corp.’s One Beale Project found itself well-poised to weather the storm. The 2019 trade tariffs on China had caused the developer to explore alternate supply chain options for necessary materials, so by the

ONE BEALE RENDERING COURTESY CARLISLE GROUP

Biz901

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Biz 901

/ THE OFFICE

Karen Garner

PR E SI DE N T, M AGNOL I A HOM E S

Magnolia Homes president Karen Garner is in the business of family. BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

homes in one trip,” says ”It was important to Her outside Garner. “Our goal was the-box thinking us to have a facility and passion for the to make the whole process stress-free, fun, where customers work have grown. and exciting when cre- could come in and And when her son ating your home.” graduated from colVisitors feel like they select everything for lege she recognized are entering a living their homes in one that same passion in room, with fireplace trip. Our goal was him. “He came up and couch, before arthrough the ranks,” riving at the reception- to make the whole she says, “doing evist’s desk. Beyond that process stress-free, ery single position lies a wide-open floor there was.” fun, and exciting plan. “We’ve got three Garner and her full kitchens and two when creating son are now partfull baths with show- your home.“ ners, but his iners and running water,” volvement in the — K AREN GARNER says Garner Jr., “so you business started can try everything out.” as a 6-year-old, when he would The showrooms are synced accompany her to the office and

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agnolia Homes founder Karen Garner gets to work from home every day. Well, not specifically home; the business’ new office and design center at 193 Cartwright Farm Lane in Collierville certainly looks like a beautiful home, and has all the amenities one might need in a modern abode. It’s all in the service of providing the best possible experience for her customers. When Garner founded Magnolia Homes 33 years ago as a single mother, she hit the ground running. “Women know what women want to see, so I tried to make that my niche,” she says. “I worked hard on branding my company name, and did a lot of advertising when a lot of other builders would not. I even got a whole page in Southern Living magazine, which at that time was unheard of.” Now, she runs the business with her son, Reggie Garner Jr., while her daughter Abbey !1 works at Magnolia’s Oak Grove T HAN KS TO T H E S P O N S O R O F Realty company. In April, Magnolia Homes moved into a new THE OFFICE 12,000-square-foot space. Garner and her colleagues work in the offices upstairs, while the downN O VAT E C H . C O M stairs area showcases products. !1 “It was important to us to have a facility where they could come in and select everything for their

with technology to allow customers to try the latest trends. “Tell Alexa you need one cup of water, and the faucet will give you one cup of water,” he says. “You can turn on a shower from bed using your phone, as well as activate other appliances.” The design center’s options include 125 color panels, a variety of cabinets and countertops, and an extensive backyard with grills, outdoor fireplaces, and brickwork. “We use products that will give their houses a long-lasting life and are as maintenance-free as possible,” she says. Flexibility has been key to Garner’s approach since she started Magnolia Homes. “I wanted to create homes that both men and women would enjoy,” she says, “so I included a lot of items in a house that other builders wouldn’t at the time.”

other homes. He took odd jobs around Magnolia Homes growing up, and even led his own homebuilding project before college. When subcontractors were busy on other houses, it fell to him to find other qualified workers and lead the project. “He brings things to the table that men want, like outdoor living, exteriors, media rooms,” says Garner. “I tell people that with us, you get what women like to see in a house, and what men like to see.” Like so many other industries, homebuilding has needed to adjust to the coronavirus pandemic with communication and scheduling. Home sales, however, are doing well. With people at home so much, they are realizing how much they need a home office and quiet areas where the parents can work and children can study.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY MAGNOLIA HOMES

Construction on Magnolia Homes' new office and design center was completed earlier this year. The new headquarters aim to provide homeowners with a one-stop-shop for their homebuilding needs. Garner's team works upstairs, while customers can tour realistic recreations of bathroom, kitchen, living room, and outdoor spaces on the ground floor.

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Biz901  /

FINANCE

Crises Shape Societies

This is Y2K 2.0 and virtual has become the new reality. BY DAV I D S . WA D D E L L

T

With ten locations across the Memphis area, Healthcare Realty is the go-to source for on Baptist Memorial Hospital campuses. A variety of locations and levels of build-out provide move-in ready suites, time-share space and the ability to build to suit. It’s your move.

hroughout our history, America has largely developed from crisis and response. Colonial rebellion birthed our Constitution, the Great Depression led to the creation of Social Security, and the Great Recession led to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. COVID-19 has yet to gestate a new government agency, but the nearly $3 trillion in stimulus funds authorized has ushered in an entirely new fiscal operating system referred to as Modern Monetarist Theory (MMT). These structural governmental responses to crises perfectly time-capsule the concurrent milieu in the nation. Undoubtedly, COVID will alter the structure and shape of government policy, but there are other, more subtle transformations happening as well. The media have progressed from fireside storytelling, to sovereign decrees, to printed pamphlets, to telegraphs, telephones, terrestrial television, cable television, and now internet ubiquity. There are 3.5 billion audience-coveting global inhabitants with smartphones who snap photos and broadcast information. Media without curation has become crowd-sourced and histrionic. COVID broke new ground as sourceless pictures, charts, conspiracies, and testimonies flooded our apps. Perhaps curation will return somehow, but until then, the force of public opinion has become a new leaderless regulator and judiciary. The COVID-based shutdown of the “non-essential” small business economy has transferred enormous market power to the “essential” large business economy. We experienced a similar phenomenon within the banking industry during the Great Financial Crisis. Pre-crisis, the FDIC insured 7,400 commercial banks in the U.S. Today it insures 4,500. This year through May, small business bankruptcies have surged 50 percent. Simultaneously, valuations across the five largest U.S. companies have surged more than $1 trillion. Small business is in crisis. Big business is booming. Remember when leading computer scientists warned us that the calendar flip from 1999 to 2000 would deactivate all of our computers? That fear kicked off the largest desktop upgrade cycle in the history of the world and helped fuel the tech bubble that burst in early 2000. In our current COVID version, social isolation mandates have initiated mass adoption of virtual workplace technologies and forced us to source nearly everything digitally. In fact, as I write this, Zoom Video (ZM) has a larger market value than the world’s seven largest airlines — combined. Society has leapfrogged and our digital utilization rates will not retreat from here. This is Y2K 2.0 and virtual has become the new reality. While China will remain the world’s dominant exporter by volume for years to come, its share will surely shrink as global supply chains diversify. While last year’s trade war created shipping frictions, COVID created shipping halts. Upstart exporters like Vietnam and Mexico will benefit. Pressure, or political mandates, may also force U.S. companies to build our source within the U.S.A. The bi-polar order built around America consuming what China’s producing will become multi-polar, reordering wealth and power globally. Bottom Line: COVID registers highly in our national crisis rankings. Each previous crisis of this magnitude ushered in significant societal changes. While we will create a vaccine for this coronavirus, its legacy will remain within the cells of our society.

David S. Waddell is CEO of Waddell and Associates. Visit waddellandassociates.com for more. 66 • I N S I D E M E M P H I S B U S I N E S S • A U G U S T 2 0 2 0

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HEALTH

Big, Loud, Quiet, Calm Looking outside — and within — during trying times. BY SHARA CLARK

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY SHARA CLARK

’ve walked nearly 300 miles over the course of the quarantine. I’ve explored practically every accessible nook and cranny of my neighborhood several times over. I’ve come to know the jagged stretches of sidewalk, what houses have the best frontyard gardens, and what hours to expect the old dog Beau to be on backyard watch, dutifully canvassing the edges of his chain-link fence, limping over to say hi when folks pass. I don’t know his owner’s name, but I greet Beau and his sister, Lucy (according to their name tags), several times a week. I now have favorite trees — the ones that tower triumphantly, anchored with massive trunks, whose roots and branches know the history of Normal Station better than any of its current residents. I have favorite houses — the ones with bungalow roofs and big front porches with swings. I miss my coffee shop, Avenue Coffee, which closed early on during the COVID-19 crisis; grabbing a pick-me-up there at the start of a journey was a pleasant routine. I’ve lived in this neighborhood more than a decade, so taking a stroll here wasn’t a new thing. But during quarantine, the walks morphed into something more than just a stretch of the legs or a break from the laptop during work-from-home hours. More than just a time to soak up some much-needed vitamin D or clear the head. They have served all those purposes,

but now I’ve really seen my neighborhood and gotten to know it more intimately. I stop to photograph little bursts of beauty: a particularly wondrous flower, a patch of moss, an interesting cluster of mushrooms growing on a stump. I stand in awe when the sun’s shooting through limbs and leaves, casting shadows that dance erratically across the sidewalk. If I venture toward the University of Memphis, I pause when a train comes through at Southern, letting the blaring horn beat against my eardrums as it announces its arrival, followed by the clacking of its wheels on the tracks, and then the whir that, within moments, drifts into near silence as it passes. Big, loud, quiet, calm. Trains aside, I think a lot of us have felt the big and loud parts of the past few months. From the panic and fear surrounding coronavirus to the unrest that hit our streets following senseless killings at the hands of law enforcement — we’ve been flooded with overwhelming information, immense emotions, a desire to do something, to speak out, while simultaneously perhaps feeling helpless. What do you do when you feel helpless and overwhelmed? I often admire my dogs as they lounge in the backyard, lying in a sunspot, gazing off into the distance or ears perked at the buzz of a bee or the sight of a squirrel. They’re so perfectly in the moment at times A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 69

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Revolutionary procedures fix receding gums Revolutionary procedures fix receding gums Have your gums begun to creep up, exposing the roots of your teeth? This problem is fixable! The experienced team at Periodontal Associates of Memphis is ready to give you the best possible treatment and care for all your periodontal needs.

Your beautiful, healthy smile awaits! Have your to creep up, exposing the a What is gums gumbegun recession, and is there roots of your teeth? This problem is fixable! The solution? experienced team of periodontists, hygienists and staff Gum recession is common and correctable. at Periodontal Associates of Memphis (PerioMem) is Repair may be necessary to avoid root ready to give you the best possible treatment and care sensitivity and an unsightly appearance. for all your periodontal needs.

Thin gum tissue puts you at higher risk for recession. best news? Gumagrafting What is gumThe recession, and is there solution? is 95% successful! specialized periodontal Gum recessionOur is common and correctable. Whenplastic a person’s gums recede 3 mm, may be Mitchel necessary to surgeons, Drs. Roger D.repair Craddock, avoid root sensitivity and appearance. Thin S. Godat and Grant T.unsightly King, are experts in gum tissue puts you at higher risk for recession. The best gum reconstruction using soft tissue grafting news? Gum grafting is 95% successful! Our specialized techniques. periodontal plastic surgeons, Drs. Roger D. Craddock,

Mitchel S. Godat and Grant T. King, are experts in gum reconstruction using soft tissue grafting techniques.

What is the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique? The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique is an advanced method for correcting gum recession that uses

Before and after

What is the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique?

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique is an advanced method for correcting gum recession that uses Revolutionary procedures fix receding gums specialized tools to access affected areas without the need for traditional gum surgery. The gums are simply lifted gently back into specialized tools toon access without the correct position the affected surfaceareas of the teeth, the need for traditional gum surgery. The gums are creating a healthy, even gumline that can simply lifted gently back into the correct position prevent infection and protect the bone under on the surface of the teeth, creating a healthy, even the gums.

Scrolling through my photos since midMarch, I’ve seen so much beauty — really seen it — because I was made to slow down, to stop and smell the roses.

gumline that can prevent infection and protect the bone under the gums.

What are the benefits of this technique? Pinhole gum is unlike other gum What are surgery the benefits of this technique? recession procedures require Pinhole gum surgery—iswhat unlikeused otherto gum recession procedures—what used require several appointments cantonow beseveral completed appointments now be completed in just one in just one office can visit. This technique office visit. This technique decreases discomfort decreases discomfort during the procedure, during the procedure, while enabling a quick while enabling a quick recovery. Plus, patients recovery. Plus, patients experience little downtime experience little downtime and no food and no food restrictions beyond a day or two. restrictions beyond a day or two. Meet our newest periodontal specialist. We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Grant T. King to our PerioMem team. A Clemson University graduate, Dr. King attended the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery, master’s degree and Certificate in Periodontics as well as serving as chief resident. His areas of expertise include dental implants, sedation dentistry, periodontal plastic surgery, and treatment of periodontal diseases. Dr. King comes from a “dental family”—his father, brother and brother inlaw are all dentists.

— before and after —

The exceptional team at Periodontal Associates of Memphis is ready to help you smile again.

Call today: 901.761.3770 or 800.824.1628 www.Pe r i o M e m .c o m

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Have you ever stopped to watch branches sway in a warm breeze? Or followed the clouds as they move across the sky when a storm’s approaching? Or homed in on the shadow of your dog, tongue out, as you lead it (or it leads you) on an afternoon adventure? Have you followed the calls of birds to the source, to find a nest of squawking hungry babies poking their tiny beaks out in search of a bug or worm? I hadn’t paid too much attention to those types of things before. Not in the way that I do now. Pre-quarantine, my camera roll was filled with random outings, concerts, gatherings of friends — and I miss that so much. I do. But scrolling through my photos since midMarch, I’ve seen so much beauty, really seen it, because I was made to slow down, to — as cliché as it is — stop and smell the roses. Even amid a worldwide pandemic, even with horrific injustices happening all too often, there’s a flower in bloom somewhere, a bird perched on a limb, just outside your doors. For even a brief moment, something as simple as that can bring you a small measure of inner peace, if you’ll let it.

PHOTOGRAPH BY SHARA CLARK

Your beautiful, healthy smile awaits!

— just being. I envy that. But I’ve found a new sense of being on my many walks — a deep gratitude for the people and creatures that inhabit our space, a better connection to my own thoughts and feelings. A long walk tends to help a person sort through what’s going on in their mind and heart — in some ways, to cope. At least that’s the case with me.

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EDUCATION

This mural funded by the UrbanArt Commission features activities that the Lester Community Center supports.

Get Schooled

A guide to assist in your search to find the right education environment for your child. E D I T E D BY J U L I A B A K E R & M AT T H E W J . H A R R I S

S PHOTOGRAPH BY CLEWISLEAKE | DREAMSTIME

earching for the right fit for your child’s education but don’t know where to start? With numerous options in the greater Memphis area, the journey to find that school can be a daunting task. Fortunately, we’ve rounded up a list of schools in the area to help you find one that will fit the needs of your child.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

MUNICIPALITY SCHOOL SYSTEMS

Private schools are not funded by the state and must fund operations by charging tuition, though many private schools offer some form of financial aid. Schools are typically run by an independent body (a school board, the Catholic Diocese, etc.), and as they are exempt from state oversight and mandated testing, faculty have the freedom to choose their own standards and educational approach. While the majority of private schools in Memphis have a religious affiliation, there are a number of non-religious schools focusing on a wide variety of methodologies and approaches. The Memphis Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) and the Catholic Diocese of Memphis represent a large number of private schools in Memphis. Various tuition and fees. Check school websites for details.

A number of communities in Shelby County manage their own school systems. Residents who live in Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Lakeland, or Millington can opt to attend one of these schools. Go to the town websites for further information.

SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS scsk12.org • 416-5300 Shelby County Schools (SCS) is the largest public school system in Tennessee and among the 25 largest systems in the nation. SCS operates more than 200 schools in the city of Memphis and in unincorporated and reserve areas of Shelby County. The district includes traditional, optional, iZone, and charter schools under their umbrella. Traditional are the zoned schools any student can attend according to home residence. Optional are similar to magnet schools

in other cities and have varying academic achievement requirements. iZone are schools on the state’s priority list working to improve test scores. Charter schools are tuition-free and operate independently from the SCS district. All of these schools are listed at the SCS website. You can start your research in this article and visit scsk12. org for more detailed information about each school.

SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS OPTIONAL PROGRAMS 160 S. Hollywood, Room C106, 38112 • 416-5338 • https://www.scsk12.org/optional/ Optional schools offer a world of choices to students. SCS has two optional programs: schools that use the schoolwithin-a-school approach (optional program and traditional classes) and those that are optional only (meaning all students participate in the program). In the following profiles, optional programs are described, and optional only schools are designated with an asterisk (*). *Balmoral-Ridgeway Elementary School 5905 Grosvenor Ave., 38119 • 416-2128 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ balmoralridgeway-es • International Baccalaureate (IB) World School Primary Years Programme. Balmoral Ridgeway promotes education of the whole child with a one-of-akind global education. Bellevue Middle School 575 S. Bellevue Blvd., 38104 • 4164488 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/bellevue-ms • The Enriched Academics/College Preparatory program prepares students for secondary and post-secondary education with enriched language arts, mathematics, and science classes. Art, music, and robotics/STEM classes available. Bolton High School 7323 Brunswick Rd., 38002 • 416-1435 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/bolton-hs • The A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 71

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International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme provides an internationally accepted education which opens the way for graduating students looking for higher education. Automotive technology and agri-STEM classes are available. Brownsville Road Elementary School 5292 Banbury, 38135 • 416-4300 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ brownsvilleroad-es • The Enriched Academics/International Studies program provides students with advanced multicultural educational opportunities and teaches students problem-solving skills to guide them to be self-sufficient. Central High School 306 S. Bellevue Blvd., 38104 • 416-4500 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/140 • The College Preparatory program promotes college-readiness with honors and AP courses. Central also offers outstanding arts and athletic programs. Colonial Middle School 1370 Colonial Rd., 38117 • 416-8980 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/38 • With a central focus on arts, academics, and athletics, Colonial offers creative and performing arts classes, enriched academics, and exploratory classes. Cordova Elementary School 750 Sanga Rd., Cordova, 38018 • 416-1700 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/39 • Enriched Academics encourages students to develop and expand artistic, athletic, musical, and media skills with rigorous classes, academic competitions, STEM clubs, athletics, computer education, and art & music classes. Cordova Middle School 900 Sanga Rd., Cordova, 38018 • 4162189 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/41 • Cordova Middle provides a stimulating learning experience for students interested in computer and environmental sciences. Extracurricular and after-school activities include robotics and STEM programs. The school also has indoor and outdoor environment-based learning labs. Craigmont High School 3333 Covington Pike, 38128 • 416-4312 • Grades: 9-12 • scsk12.org/craigmonthigh • Craigmont High boasts a college preparatory program, International Studies Optional Program, Robotics Club, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Junior Chapter, and more; it caters to a wide range of abilities and needs from special education to honors/advanced placement and dual enrollment. Craigmont Middle School 3455 Covington Pike, 38128 • 4167780 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/42 • The only International Studies middle school in West Tennessee, Craigmont Middle prepares students for higher education by encouraging problem-solving skills and critical thinking while increasing global awareness. *Cummings School 1037 Cummings, 38106 • 416-7810 • Grades: K-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/46 • The Mathematical Minds (DM3) program emphasizes learning of mathematics and integrates these lessons into other areas of the curriculum. Cummings also serves as a laboratory school for LeMoyne-Owen College and is provided innovative teaching and learning strategies by the Center for Urban Education (CUE). *Delano Elementary 1716 Delano, 38127 • 416-3932 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/202 • The computer/ technology program facilitates a learning experience that utilizes a variety of innovative technological tools. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities including pom pom, school newspaper, Arts and Crafts Club, and more. *Double Tree Elementary School 4560 Double Tree, 38109 • 416-8144 • Grades: PreK-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/125 • As a modified Montessori/Technology school, Double Tree provides a Montessori approach for K-2nd grade and an emphasis on technology for grades 3-5. Douglass High School 3200 Mt. Olive Rd., 38108 • 416-0990 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/126 • The Public Service and Communication Arts program helps students develop 21st century skills. Students are taught traditional and core academics while having the

opportunity to take honors and AP classes as well as career and technical education courses. *Douglass Elementary School 1650 Ash St., 38108 • 4165946 • Grades: *K-5, 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/129 • The Chess and Public Service programs aim to provide opportunities that enrich students with an advanced curriculum. Downtown Elementary School 10 North Fourth St., 38103 • 4168400 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/128 • The Enriched Academics/Social Studies program takes advantage of its unique urban location by using Downtown Memphis as a “living laboratory.” Students take frequent field trips to historical, educational, and cultural sites; and guest speakers from nearby businesses and organizations stop in to speak with the students. A variety of in-school enrichment classes and after-school tuitionbased activities are offered. East High School 3206 Poplar, 38111 • 416-6160 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/83 • East High and its T-STEM Academy encourage students’ growth by emphasizing problem-based learning, professional learning, college and career readiness, and by increasing partnerships with industry, university, and community partnerships to support STEM education. Germantown Elementary School 2730 Cross Country Dr., 38138 • 416-0945 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12. org/Domain/169 • The Enriched Academics/International Studies program teaches students global and community awareness. Students also receive a number of opportunities through a learning garden, French classes, side-by-side concert with Memphis Symphony Orchestra, art expression experiences, partnerships with Germantown Middle and High School, and CLUE classes for gifted students. Germantown Middle School 7925 C.D. Smith Rd., 38138 • 4160950 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/92 • The Enriched Academics/College Preparatory, STEM, and World Languages (Latin, French, and Spanish) programs provide every student numerous challenging, educational opportunities; and an array of specialized clubs and extracurricular activities keep students engaged. Germantown High School 7653 Old Poplar Pike, 38138 • 4160955 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/91 or /scs/high/germantown/IB.html • Germantown’s International Baccalaureate College Preparatory program sets students up for success in the future and is recognized globally. The Creative and Performing Arts program continuously garners national recognition for achievements. Grahamwood Elementary School 3950 Summer Ave., 38122 • 416-5952 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/96 • The Enriched Academics program encourages students to be productive and well-rounded by providing a safe, diverse, and academically challenging environment. Havenview Middle School 1481 Hester Ln., 38116 • 416-3092 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/18 • The Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) program offers rigorous academic concepts while exposing students to real-life experiences to further develop social and intellectual skills. *Idlewild Elementary School 1950 Linden Ave., 38104 • 4164566 • Grades: K-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/66 • Idlewild provides a diverse and academically invigorating curriculum that combines enriched science, technology, art, and music. *John P. Freeman Optional School 5250 Tulane Rd., 38109 • 4163156 • Grades: 1-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/67 • The Enriched Academics/College Preparatory program prepares students to succeed globally by instilling rigorous academic practices and by encouraging using a growth mindset and building meaningful relationships. Keystone Elementary School 4301 Old Allen Rd., 38128 • 4163924 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/70 • ECO: Educating Children Through the Outdoors is Keystone’s

central focus, where students receive an enriched education in outdoor classrooms (gardens, pond, “grow rooms,” and amphitheatre) and science and computer labs. Kingsbury High School 1270 N. Graham, 38122 • 416-6060 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/73 • With its Global Health Studies: Applied Health Science and Health Science Policy program, Kingsbury prepares students for college with a focus in the healthcare industry. *Maxine Smith STEAM Academy 750 E. Parkway S., 38104 • 416-4536 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/154 • The Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) program is designed to engage students and provide a rigorous curriculum. *Oak Forest Elementary School 7440 Nonconnah View Cv., 38119 • 416-2257 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/105 • With its International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, Oak Forest provides an enriched and globally recognized education. Overton High School 1770 Lanier Ln., 38117 • 416-2136 • Grades 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/110 • The Creative and Performing Arts program fosters students’ development of talents in the performing arts with programs in vocal and instrumental music, jazz, orchestra, dance, drama, visual arts, broadcasting, and creative writing. Peabody Elementary School 2086 Young Ave., 38104 • 4164606 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/77 • Enriched Academics/International Studies. A multicultural melting pot, Peabody incorporates international studies in its enriched academics program. Ridgeway High School 2009 Ridgeway Rd., 38119 • 416-1802 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/183 • International Baccalaureate World School (IB). Ridgeway provides a course of study that is acknowledged worldwide for its rigorous curriculum. Ridgeway Middle School 6333 Quince, 38119 • 416-1588 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/184 • The International Baccalaureate World School Middle Years Programme strives to encourage students to become independent thinkers and risk-takers who are internationally-minded. Riverwood Elementary School 1330 Stern Ln., Cordova, 38016 • 416-2310 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/186 • The Environmental Science and Community Service program encourages students to be community and environmentally conscious. *Rozelle Elementary School 993 Roland, 38114 • 416-4612 • Grades: K-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/189 • Creative and Performing Arts. Instructors at Rozelle use the arts to teach academic subjects and develop individual skills. Sherwood Elementary School 1156 Robin Hood, 38111 • 4164864 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/118 • The Academic Enrichment Through the Arts program provides a challenging curriculum with an emphasis through the arts. Students are required to read classic literature, books, solve problems, and develop writing skills. The program is further enriched by involvement from Arts Memphis, Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, and Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Snowden School 1870 N. Parkway, 38112 • 416-4621 • Grades: 1-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/121 • Snowden’s Enriched Academics/College Preparatory program offers STEM courses while also stressing academics, arts integration, athletics, and social development. *Springdale-Memphis Magnet Elementary School 880 N. Hollywood, 38108 • 416-4883 • Grades: 1-5 • https:// schools.scsk12.org/Domain/135 • Exploratory learning provides a science-driven curriculum and an innovative learning environment with interactive trips, labs, and fairs. Treadwell Elementary School 3538 Given, 38122 • 416-6130 • Grades: K-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/56 • The Dual Language Immersion program boasts a bilingual

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education and a culturally diverse environment. Englishspeaking students are paired with students who speak other native languages to be immersed in a one-of-a-kind foreign language educational experience. *Vollentine Elementary School 1682 Vollintine, 38107 • 4164632 • Grades: K-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/79 • Science Exploration: Scholars Tackling Academic Rigor Scientifically (STARS) program offers a technological learning environment that is geared towards science discovery. Whitehaven Elementary School 4783 Elvis Presley Blvd., 38116 • 416-7431 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/162 • The Enriched Academics program provides students academic instruction in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Whitehaven High School 4851 Elvis Presley Blvd., 38116 • 416-3000 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/163 • The College Preparatory/Business and Finance programs prepare students for college with a broad range of classes that include business/finance and advanced placement courses. White Station High School 514 S. Perkins, 38117 • 416-8880 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/160 • Ranked on Newsweek’s list of top high schools in America, White Station High School provides a College Preparatory program that prepares students for college readiness with classes in science, mathematics, medicine, law, education, business, computer science, and public/social service. White Station Middle School 5465 Mason, 38120 • 416-2184 • Grades: 6-8 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/161 • The College Preparatory program offers an academically stimulating curriculum in a state-of-the-art facility with English, math, science, social studies, fine arts, and world languages courses. William Herbert Brewster Elementary 2605 Sam Cooper, 38112 • 416-7150 • Grades 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/ Domain/164 • The Enriched Academics/M.A.S.T. program is designed to prepare students to excel by emphasizing enriched learning in math, art, science, and technology. Smart boards, computer workstations, interactive science lab, visual arts room, and interactive science lab. Willow Oaks Elementary School 4417 Willow, 38117 • 416-2196 • Grades: 1-5 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/165 • The Enriched Academics Through the Arts and Technology program prepares students for middle and high school with a curriculum that exceeds state performance standards in reading, math, science, social studies, computer technology, and the arts. Wooddale High School 5151 Scottsdale, 38118 • 416-2440 • Grades: 9-12 • https://schools.scsk12.org/Domain/191 • College Preparatory and Aviation/Tourism programs are designed to train students in specialized fields that include aviation, robotics, and information technology. Students have the opportunity to work on or finish their Federal Aviation Administration’s private pilot certificates.

Our students engage in active instruction by agile teachers who meet individual needs— whether on campus or learning from home. With new health and wellness protocols in place, we’re ready for a strong start to the new school year! Learn more about our reopening plan at sgis.org/reopening.

Running isn’t canceled.

CHARTER SCHOOLS IN MEMPHIS AND SHELBY COUNTY

We are open and here to help you on your fitness journey.

Charter schools are public schools that operate independently from their school districts. Each school follows its own mission while adhering to state-required education standards. Charters serve as an alternative to families seeking a public school education but in a smaller, academically enriched environment. Arrow Academy of Excellence 645 Semmes, 38111 • 207-1891 • arrowacademyofexcellence.org • Grades: K-3 Aspire Public Schools Memphis 3210 Raleigh-Millington Rd., 38128 • 646-6516 • aspirepublicschools.org • Grades: PK-8 Aurora Collegiate Academy 4841 Summer Ave., 38122 • 2494615 • auroracollegiate.org • Grades: K-5 Bluff City High School 4950 Fairley Rd., 38109 • tn.greendot. org/bchs • 730-8169 • Grades: 9-12

901. 761.0 078 • l ove t o r u n @ f l e e t f e e t m e m p h is .c o m f l e e t f e e t m e m p his .c o m @fleetfeetmemphs

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4530 Poplar Ave — Memphis • 2130 W Poplar Ave — Collierville A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 73

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BE SEEN. BE CELEBRATED. BELONG.

Are you looking for more in a school? At St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School you’ll find a place where “being seen” is more than just words – it’s a deeply ingrained practice, part of a school culture that seeks to know and celebrate each and every student, guiding them on their journey as they explore and develop their individual gifts and talents. Connect with an Admissions team member today!

St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School a Catholic Independent School for Girls PK2-12th Grade and Boys PK2-8th Grade Admissions@saa-sds.org • 901-435-5819

At GSL, we embrace, respect, and celebrate diversity Visit gslschool.org to learn more.

Preschool Age 2-4

Lower School Grades SK-4

Middle School Grades 5-8

City University School - Boys Preparatory and Girls Preparatory 1475 East Shelby Dr., 38116 • 755-2219 • cityuniversityschool. org • Grades: 6-8 for boys & girls City University School of Independence 1475 East Shelby Dr., 38116 • 775-2219 • cityuniversityschool.org/school-ofindependence • Grades: 9-12 Cornerstone Prep-Lester Campus 320 Carpenter St., 38112 • 416-3640 • cornerstoneprepmemphis.org • Grades: K-5/ Capstone Education Group, Achievement School District Cornerstone Prep-Denver Elementary 1940 Frayser, 38127 • 416-3640 • cornerstoneprepmemphis.org • Grades: PK-5/ Capstone Education Group, Achievement School District Crosstown High School 1365 Tower Ave., 38104 • 401-5500 • crosstownhigh.org • Grades: 9-10 (first 9th-grade class started August 2018) DuBois Consortium of Charter Schools 4443 Germantown Rd., 38125 • 509-6190 • http://duboisccs.org/ • Grades: K-12 Fairley High 4950 Fairley Rd., 38109 • 730-8160 • tn.greendot.org/fairley • Achievement School District • Grades: 9-12 Freedom Preparatory Academy Elementary & Middle Westwood, 778 Parkrose Rd., 38109 • 881-1149 • freedomprep.org • Achievement School District • Grades: PK-5 & 6-8 Freedom Preparatory Academy High 5132 Jonetta St., 38109 • 259-5959 • freedomprep.org • Grades: 9-12 Gateway University 6165 Stage Rd., Bartlett, 38134 • 501-7940 • guschools.org • Grades: 9-12 Gestalt Community Schools 3175 Lenox Park Blvd. #410, 38115 • 213-5161 • gestaltcs.org • Various campuses • Grades: K-12 Granville T. Woods Academy of Innovation 3824 Austin Peay, 38128 • 308-2051 • gtwacademy.com • Grades: K-8 Kaleidoscope School of Memphis 110 N. Court Ave., 38103 • 623-1888 • ksmemphis.org • Grade 6-8 KIPP: Memphis Collegiate Schools kippmemphis.org • 7 schools • Grades: K-12 Leadership Preparatory Charter School 4190 Elliston Rd., 38111 • 512-4495 • leadmemphis.org • Grades: K-8 Memphis Academy of Health Sciences High School 3925 Chelsea Ave. Ext., 38108 • 382-1441• mahsmiddleandhigh. org • Grades: 9-12 Memphis Academy of Health Sciences Middle School 3608 Hawkins Mill Rd., 38108 • 213-4123 • mahsmiddleandhigh. org • Grades: 6-8 Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering 1254 Jefferson Ave., 38104 • 333-1580 • discovermase.org • Grades: 6-12 Memphis Business Academy Elementary School 2450 Frayser Blvd., 38127 • 353-1475 • mbacharterschools. org • Grades: K-5 Memphis Business Academy Middle & High School 3306 Overton Crossing, 38127 • 357-8680 • mbacharterschools. org • Grades: 6-12 Memphis College Prep Elementary School 278 Greenlaw Ave., 38105 • 620-6475 • memphiscollegeprep.org • Grades: K-5 Memphis Delta Prep 1237 College St, 38106 • 251-1010 • memphisdeltaprep.org • Grades: K-5 Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory 168 Jefferson St., 38103 • 4740955 • grizzliesprep.org • Grades: 5-8 Memphis RISE Academy 5050 Poplar, Suite 1714, 38157 • 3039590 • memphisrise.org • Grades: 6-12 Memphis School of Excellence 4450 S. Mendenhall, Suite #1, 38141 • 367-7814 • sememphis.org • Grades: 6-12 Memphis STEM Academy 2450 Frayser Blvd., 38127 • 353-1475 • memphisbusinessacademy.com/stem • K-4 Pathways in Education 3156 N. Thomas St., 38127 • 353-4999 • tn.pathwaysineducation.org • Grades: 9-12 Promise Academy 1346 Bryan St., 38108 • 324-4456 • hollywood.promiseacademy.com • Grades: K-5 Soulsville Charter School 1115 College St., 38106 • 261-6366 • soulsvillecharterschool.org • Grades: 6-12 Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School 2221 Democrat Rd., 38132 • 743-7335 • southernavecharterschools. org • Grades: K-5

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STAR Academy 3260 James Rd., 38128 • 387-5050 • staracademycharter.org • Grades: K-6 Veritas College Preparatory Charter School 690 Mississippi Blvd., 38126 • 526-1900 • veritascollegeprep. org • Grades: 5-8 Vision Prep 260 Joubert Ave., 38109 • 775-1018 • visionprep.org • Grades: K-5

PRIVATE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS IN MEMPHIS AND THE REGION A host of independent schools provide families with a range of educational choices. Special needs schools are here, too. (Note: Tuition and fees may adjust from time of printing.) Bornblum Jewish Community School 6641 Humphreys Blvd., 38120 • 747-2665 • bornblum.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K-8th • Tuition: Kindergarten - $9,200; 1-8 - $11,000 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 108; 6:1 • Religious affiliation: Jewish • Before- and afterschool care: yes Briarcrest Christian Schools *76 S. Houston Levee, Eads, 38028 • 765-4600 • briarcrest.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 2 yrs.-12th • Tuition: $4,900.00 – $16,700.00 • Enrollment at end of 2019-2020 school year 1,553; Student/teacher ratio 11:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and afterschool care: yes Christ Methodist Day School 411 S. Grove Park, 38117 • 6836873 • choosecmds.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 2K-6th • Tuition: $2,600-$13,675 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 532; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Christ the King Lutheran School 5296 Park, 38119 • 6828405 • ctkschool.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 18 mos.-8th • Tuition: $8,500 - $8,950 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 220; 15:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Special Ed classes: Strides, Discoveries, Horizons, Honors • Before- and after-school care: yes Christian Brothers High School 5900 Walnut Grove, 38120 • 261-4900 • cbhs.org • Student body: male • Grades: 9th-12th • Tuition: $14,450 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 765; 13:1 • Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic • Before- and after-school care: no Collegiate School of Memphis 3353 Faxon Ave., 38122 • 591-8200 • collegiatememphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 6th-12th • Tuition: $12,800 - $13,000 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 328; 12:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: after only Evangelical Christian School Main Campus *7600 Macon Rd., 38018 • 754-7217 • ecseagles.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 6th-12th • Tuition: $6,200-$16,800 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 730; 6:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian *Additional Location: 1920 Forest Hill-Irene • 754-4420 • Grades: Little Eagles (age 2)-5th • Before- and after-school care: yes Fayette Academy 15090 Hwy. 64, Somerville, 38068 • 465-3241 • www.fayetteacademy.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK3-12th • Tuition: $6,350-$7,700 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 600; 15:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes First Assembly Christian School 8650 Walnut Grove, Cordova, 38018 • 458-5543 • facsmemphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK3-12th •Tuition: $$5,725-$11,228(resource-sparks/student services additional fee) • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 500; 10:1 • Religious affiliation: interdenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School 246 S. Belvedere, 38104 • 278-0200 • gslschool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 2-8th • Tuition: $5,275-18,630 • Enrollment/student-

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faculty ratio: 470; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Episcopal • Before- and after-school care: yes Harding Academy 1100 Cherry Rd., 38117 • 767-4494 • hardinglions.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Sr. K-12th • Tuition: $11,495–$15,995 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 600; 7.5:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Beforeand after-school care: yes • *Additional Locations: Little Harding, 8350 Macon Road, 38018 • 767-4494 • Grades: Age 18 mos.-Jr. K • Little Harding, 1106 Colonial, 38117 • 767-2093 • Grades: Age 18 mos.-Jr. K Hutchison School 1740 Ridgeway, 38119 • 761-2220 • hutchisonschool.org • Student body: female • Grades: Age 2-12th grade • Tuition: $5,200-$22,984 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 853; early childhood, 9:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Immanuel Lutheran School 6319 Raleigh LaGrange, 38134 • 388-0205 • ilsmemphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK3-8th • Tuition: $7250 - $7750 • Enrollment: 175 • Religious affiliation: Lutheran • Before- and after-school care: check with school Lamplighter Montessori School 8563 Fay Rd., 38018 • 901-751-2000 • lamplighterschool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 18 mos.-8th • Tuition: $7,200$15,700 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 120; 5:1/12:1 • Religious affiliation: nonsectarian • Before- and afterschool care: yes Lausanne Collegiate School 1381 W. Massey, 38120 • 474-1000 • lausanneschool.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK-12th • Tuition: $15,190 - $24,100 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 837; 8:1 • Religious affiliation: nonsectarian • Before- and after-school care: yes Macon Road Baptist School *11015 Hwy. 64, Arlington, 38002 • 290-5555 • maconroadbaptist.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K3-12th • Tuition: $7,000-$9,400 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 400 for all locations, 10:1 • Religious affiliation: Baptist • Before- and after-school care: yes Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South 390 S. White Station, 38117 • 682-2400 • mhafyos.org • Grades: PK-12th/co-ed (PK3-8th), female (9th-12th), male (9th-12th) • Tuition: $7,376-$19,553 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 185; 4:1 • Religious affiliation: Jewish • Before- and afterschool care: after only Maria Montessori School 740 Harbor Bend Rd., 38103 • 527-3444 • mariamontessorischool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 18 mos.-8th • Tuition: $8,000-$10,000 • Enrollment: 121 • Religious affiliation: none • Before- and after-school care: no Memphis Junior Academy 50 N. Mendenhall, 38117 • 683-1061 • memphisjunioracademy.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK-10th • Tuition: $598-$816/month • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 63, 15:1 • Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist • Before- and after-school care:yes Memphis University School 6191 Park, 38119 • 260-1300 • musowls.org • Student body: male • Grades: 7th-12th • Tuition: $21,590 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 655; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational • Before- and after-school care: after only New Hope Christian Academy 3000 University St., 38127 • 358-3183 • newhopememphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 3 years-6th • Tuition: sliding scale based on income • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 366; 8:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Beforeand after-school care: after only, K-6th Northpoint Christian School 7400 Getwell Rd., Southaven, MS, 38672 • 662-349-3096 • www.ncstrojans.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK3-12th • Tuition: $6,850-$10,175 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 987; 15:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Presbyterian Day School 4025 Poplar, 38111 • 842-4600 • pdsmemphis.org • Student body: male • Grades: Age 2 years-6th • Tuition: $5,400-$20,490 • Enrollment/student-

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faculty ratio: 500; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Presbyterian • Before- and after-school care: yes Rossville Christian Academy 280 High St., Rossville, 38066 • 853-0200 • rossvillechristian.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K4-12th • Tuition: $2,950-$8,350 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 286; 12:1 • Religious affiliation: Interdenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: no St. Agnes Academy/St. Dominic School 4830 Walnut Grove, 38117 • 767-1356 • saa-sds.org • Student body: St. Agnes, female; St. Dominic, male • Grades: 2K-12th (girls), 2K-8th (boys) • Tuition: $4,510-$18,475 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 775 (combined; 2018-2019); 10:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Benedict at Auburndale High School 8250 Varnavas at Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 • 260-2840 • sbaeagles.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 9th-12th • Tuition: $12,000-$12,600 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 654; 16:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: no St. George’s Independent School Collierville Campus, 1880 Wolf River Blvd., Collierville 38017 • 457-2000 • sgis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK-5th Germantown & Memphis locations • Grades: 6-12 at Collierville • Tuition: $9,305-$22,150 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 1115 (all locations); 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Episcopal • Beforeand after-school care: yes (PK-8th) *Additional Locations: Germantown Campus, 8250 Poplar, 38138 • 261-2300 • Grades: PK-5th; Memphis Campus, 3749 Kimball Avenue, 38111 • 261-3920 • Grades: PK-5th St. Mary’s Episcopal School 60 Perkins Extd., 38117 • 537-1405 • stmarysschool.org • Student body: female • Grades: Age 2 yrs.-12th • Tuition: $3,500-$23,400 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 822; 8:1 • Religious affiliation: Episcopal • Before- and after-school care: after only Tipton-Rosemark Academy 8696 Rosemark, Millington, 38053 • 829-6536 • tiptonrosemarkacademy.net • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K2-12th • Tuition: $5,588-$9,221 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 570; 13:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Trinity Christian Academy 10 Windy City Rd., Jackson, TN, 38305 • 731-668-8500 • tcalions.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 6 weeks-12th • Tuition: $5,895 - 10,200 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 650; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian, Interdenominational • Before- and after-school care: yes (including holidays) University School of Jackson 232 McClellan Rd., Jackson, TN, 38305 • 731-664-0812 • usjbruins.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 6 wks.-12th • Tuition: $4,180-$11,140 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 1,030; 13:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational • Before- and after-school care: after-school care and summer daycare Westminster Academy 2520 Ridgeway Rd., 38119 • 380-9192 • wamemphis.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: JK-12th • Tuition: $7,435-$13,775 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 425; 6:1 • Religious affiliation: Classical Christian • Beforeand after-school care: yes West Memphis Christian School *1600 N. Missouri St., West Memphis, AR, 72301 • Elementary Campus • 870-7350642 • wmcs.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K-12 • Tuition: $5,600-$7,300 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 175, 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes *Additional Location: Middle School and High School, 1101 N. Missouri Street • 870-400-4000 • Grades: 4th-12th Woodland Presbyterian School 5217 Park, 38119 • 685-0976 • woodlandschool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 2 years-8th • Tuition: $4,180-$14,740 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 340; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: Presbyterian • Before- and after-school care: yes

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Woodland combines small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and personalized instruction to help grow your child’s success. Call 901-685-0976 to schedule a tour, or email admissionswoodlandschool.org. A co-ed, 2-year-old – 8th grade independent school in the heart of East Memphis. | woodlandschool.org ©2019 Woodland Presbyterian School. All rights reserved.

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SCHOOLS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OF MEMPHIS

Schools for children with a variety of learning challenges.

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF MEMPHIS

Bodine School 2432 Yester Oaks Dr., Germantown, 38139 • 754-1800 • bodineschool.org • Serves students with dyslexia and dyslexia-related reading differences. • Grades: 1st-6th • Tuition: check with office; financial aid available • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 83; 10:1 • Religious affiliation: none • Before- and after-school care: yes Concord Academy 4942 Walnut Grove, 38117 • 682-3115 • concord-academy.org • Serves students with learning and social disabilities • Grades: 6th-12th • Tuition: $12,339-$12,922 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 65; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: none • Before- and after-school care: yes Harwood Center *Business office: 8500 Walnut Grove Rd, Cordova, 38018 • 584-8281 • harwoodcenter.org • Provides support and education for young children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities. Provides ABA Services ($50-$90/hour - offers insurance). • Ages 18 mos.-6 years • Tuition: $380-$940/ month • Student-faculty ratio: 1:3 (education department); 1:1 (ABA department) *Locations: 8500 Walnut Grove, 38018 • 680 Hanley St., 38114 • 3796 Frayser-Raleigh Rd., 38128 Madonna Learning Center 7007 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 • 752-5767 • madonna-learning.org • Individualized educational services for special needs children and adults. Students represent all disabilities, including Down syndrome, developmental and learning disabilities, sensory processing disorders, and other learning challenges. Ages: 4-30 • Grades: flexible levels, ungraded classrooms • Tuition: $13,800, financial aid available • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 43; 6:1 • Religious affiliation: none • Before- and afterschool care: yes Memphis Oral School for the Deaf 7901 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 • 758-2228 • mosdkids.org • At Memphis Oral School for the Deaf, children who are deaf and hard of hearing are learning to listen and talk. MOSD offers a “Sound Beginnings” Infant-Family Training program for children ages birth-3, “Sound Transitions” for children ages 1-3, and MOSD Preschool serves children ages 2-5 with hearing loss. Through small class instruction, daily speech therapy, daily listening therapy, and onsite audiological services, children learn to listen and talk. Phoenix School for Creative Learning 2404 Arthur Rd., Germantown, 38138 • 757-4360 • thephoenixschool.net • Offers individualized, arts-based learning for students with average or above-average I.Q. who have ADD/ADHD, highfunctioning autism, or other learning disabilities. Social skills therapy is part of the program. • Grades: 1st-12th • Tuition: $10,900 • Financial aid: limited • Enrollment: 28 • Religious affiliation: none • Accredited by the TN State Department of Education • Before- and after-school care: check with school Shady Oaks School 2000 N. Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 • 737-3355 • shadyoaksmemphis.com • Offers special, individualized instruction for students with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities. Classes are held in a positive environment with individualized reading, math, and phonics designed to build self-confidence and prepare students for traditional classroom learning. Well-rounded curriculum including Spanish, & music • Grades: ages 7-14 (ungraded classrooms) • Tuition: $10,500 • Financial aid: limited • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian St. Francis of Assisi PLUS Program 2100 Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 • 388-7321 • sfawolves.org • Co-educational school that offers educational experiences for children in grade 2-8 with additional programs for advanced students and our PLUS Program for students in grades 2-8 with a diagnosed learning difference such as ADD, ADHD, dyslexia, Aspergers, and processing disorders. Curriculum utilizes developmentally appropriate techniques and activities designed to academically challenge students and prepare them to enter a college-preparatory program for high school. Students are provided with weekly art, music, band, chorus, Spanish, Library, STEM, and twice weekly physical education.

373-1219 • cdom.org

The Catholic Diocese of Memphis, through its department of education, administers schools in the Memphis area, serving students in pre-K through 12th grade. The Catholic Diocese of Memphis has partnered with Compass Community Schools charter network to continue operation of six former locations of the Jubilee Catholic Schools Network, which closed its doors after the 2018-2019 school year. These schools provide an educational option for families in economically challenged neighborhoods. To learn more about each school, go to cdom.org to link to the school website. Please contact the individual schools for tuition rates and additional information. Christian Brothers High School 5900 Walnut Grove, 38120 • 261-4900 • cbhs.org • Student body: male • Grades: 9th-12th • Tuition: $14,450 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 765; 13:1 • Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic • Before- and afterschool care: no Compass Community Schools 61 N. McLean Blvd., 38104 • 6187422 • compassmemphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K-12 • Six locations: Berclair (K-8) - 3880 Forrest Ave., 38122; Binghampton (K-8) - 2540 Hale Rd., 38112; Frayser (K-8) 3690 Thomas St., 38127; Hickory Hill (K-7) - 3572 Emerald St., 38115; Midtown (7-12) - 61 N McLean, 38104; Orange Mound (K-7) - 2718 Lamar Ave., 38114 Holy Rosary School 4841 Park, 38117 • 685-1231 • http://www. holyrosarymemphis.org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK2-8th • Tuition: $5,680-$7,940 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 454, 11:1 • Before- and after-school care: yes Immaculate Conception Cathedral School 1669 Central Avenue, 38104 • 725-2710 • http://www.myiccs.org/ • Grades: PK-8 • Tution: $8,775 - $9,275 • Student body: lower, coed; upper, female Incarnation Catholic Preschool 360 Bray Station Rd. Collierville, 38017 • 901-861-5414 • Ages 1-5 • Enrollment 160 • Before and aftercare care: yes Our Lady of Perpetual Help School 8151 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 • 753-1181 • https://www.olphowls.org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK-8th • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 215, 1:11 • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Agnes Academy/St. Dominic School 4830 Walnut Grove, 38117 • 767-1356 • saa-sds.org • Student body: St. Agnes, female; St. Dominic, male • Grades: 2K-12th (girls), 2K-8th (boys) • Tuition: $4,510-$18,475 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 775 (combined; 2018-2019); 10:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Ann School - Bartlett, 6529 Stage Rd., 38134 • 386-3328 • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK-8th • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 200+, 18:1 • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Benedict at Auburndale High School 8250 Varnavas at Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 • 260-2840 • sbaeagles. org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 9th-12th • Tuition: $12,000-$12,600 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 654; 16:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: no St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School, 2100 N. Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, TN 38016 • 901-388-7321 • https://www. sfawolves.org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 2-8th • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 430; 14:1 • Before and after school care: yes St. Louis School 5192 Shady Grove Rd., 38117 • 255-1900 • https://stlouismemphis.org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PK3-8th • • Tuition: $5,100 - 8,200 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio:532; 15:1 • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Paul Catholic School 1425 E. Shelby Dr., 38116 • 346-0862 • http://www.stpaulschoolmemphis.com/ • Student body: coed • Grades: PK3-8th • Tuition: $5,700 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio:: 220; 22:1 A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 79

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Stacey Bonasso Aeronautical Engineering Teacher

MS from Stanford University BS in Mechanical Engineering Team Member, Mars Exploration Initiative T-38C Pilot & Instructor Chief of Fighter Operations, Barksdale AFB, LA F-16 Fighter Pilot (first female in 4th Fighter Squadron) 3 Military Accommodations 3 Meritorious Service Medals

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rhodes.edu

BEYOND THE ORDINARY

THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE AT RHODES COLLEGE IS ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY. LOOK BEYOND THE WORLD-CLASS ACADEMICS; LOOK BEYOND THE NATIONAL RANKINGS; LOOK BEYOND THE STORIED HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE, AND YOU’LL SEE WE’RE PURSUING SOMETHING GREATER: AN EDUCATION THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO LIVE A LIFE OF EXPLORATION.

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rhodes.edu

Cody Stockton ’19 Major: History

“While at Rhodes, I had the opportunity to do a research fellowship at the National Civil Rights Museum and to intern at First Tennessee Bank. I never thought I’d see myself working in the financial sector as a history major, but that experience really showed me the value of a liberal arts education. “Then I had the crazy idea that I wanted to study abroad. I wanted to go somewhere really different, somewhere I could connect what I was learning in the classroom to real life. Next thing you know, I was on a plane for Havana, Cuba. It was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had in my life. “At Rhodes, these experiences are all preparation for a career. Professors will point you toward opportunities, helping you tailor your interests to your own passions and personal pursuits. Here at Rhodes, I’ve checked all these boxes of things that I never thought I’d do.”

Explore Cody’s Rhodes journey

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Why Go To College? For new college students, transitioning into the next phase can be scary and somewhat shaky, albeit exciting. Between choosing the right school, deciding on the right career path, and adjusting to an unfamiliar environment filled with new peers, professors, and surroundings, the college experience can be difficult to adapt to. Once acclimated, however, students can begin to explore their interests while learning valuable skill sets, and they will often find the college experience and the journey to adulthood to be gratifying and fulfilling. Receiving a degree is a rite of passage, and it will set graduates up for success in life after school. Graduates are more likely to find steady employment and receive higher income than their counterparts who did not receive a college education. The graphic shown below, from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, displays the correlation between unemployment rates and median weekly earnings for people ages 25 and older in 2019 based on education level.

EDUCATION ATTAINMENT 1.1% 1.6% 2.0% 2.2%

2.7% 3.3% 3.7% 5.4% TOTAL: 3.0 %

MEDIAN USUAL WEEKLY EARNINGS IN 2019 $1,883

Doctorate

$1,861

Professional Master’s

$1,497

Bachelor’s

$1,248

Associate’s Some college, no degree High school diploma Less than a high school diploma

$887 $833 $746 $592 ALL WORKERS: $969

Note: Data are for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers. Source: Current Population Survey, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/unemployment-earnings-education.htm

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PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREY POPOV / DREAMSTIME

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE % IN 2019

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MEMPHIS

We’re posi+ive you’ll find the real you here.

Your Me+Memphis story begins when you choose to continue your education at the UofM. Memphis gets what you’re after. Memphis knows you belong in a creative city with authentic experiences that lead to real work. You’re here because Memphis begins with me.

me mph is .edu | Driv en by D o i ng.

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7/10/20 2:21 PM


Preparing for College Choosing a career path at a young age is never easy — sometimes, it can take years to decide. It’s helpful to think about what interests you as early as middle school, perhaps imagining a career path: what would you like to do when you grow up? Middle-schoolers can develop skills by becoming involved in extracurricular activities and practicing good study habits. By mastering these early, when children reach high school they will be ready to finalize college plans by preparing for standardized tests, maintaining high GPAs, applying for colleges and scholarships, and more. Read below for a step-by-step preparedness list that prospective college students and parents can consult to ensure optimal college readiness.

MIDDLE SCHOOL high school is a time for feeling out skills and interests. Becoming involved in extracurricular school or community activities can help J unior with that. Students are encouraged to develop strong study habits and test-taking adeptness. Parents should maintain in-depth communication with their child and his or her teachers, while actively saving for the child’s education.

PARENTS:

◗ Think about college as an important part of your future. Discuss your thoughts and ideas with your family and with people at school. ◗ Start saving for college if you haven’t already. ◗ Take challenging and interesting classes to prepare for high school. ◗ Ask your parent or guardian to help you research which high schools or special programs will most benefit your interests. ◗ Develop strong study habits. ◗ Do your best in school and on standardized tests. If you are having difficulty, don’t give up — get help from a teacher, tutor, or mentor. ◗ Become involved in school- or community-based activities that let you explore your interests and learn new things. ◗ Speak with adults, such as your teacher, school counselor, librarian, relatives, or family friends, who you think have interesting jobs. Ask them, “What do you like about your job?” and “What education did you need for your job?”

◗ Use FAFSA4caster to find out how much federal student aid your child might receive. This information will help you plan ahead. ◗ Continue saving for your child’s college education. If you have not opened a savings account, learn about the tax advantages of saving and find a link to a clearinghouse of state college savings plans. ◗ Talk to your child about his or her interests and help match those interests with a college major and career. ◗ Help your child develop good study habits, such as studying at the same time and place every day and having the necessary materials to complete assignments. ◗ Stay in contact with your child’s teachers and counselors so that they can let you know about any changes in your child’s behavior or schoolwork. ◗ Keep an eye on your child’s grades on his or her tests and report cards, and help him or her find tutoring assistance, if necessary.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREY POPOV / DREAMSTIME

STUDENTS:

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At Ole Miss, it’s personal. You becomes us becomes family. As a community united in spirit and mission, we create a shared story to drive progress throughout our community, our region, and our country. Visit admissions.olemiss.edu to apply today.

@olemiss

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@olemiss

@olemissrebels

7/14/20 10:31 AM


Preparing for College c o n t i n u e d HIGH SCHOOL

I

t’s time to get serious about planning for college if you haven’t already. Students should be diligent with their schoolwork and grades, as maintaining a high grade point average (GPA) during this time will increase the chances for scholarships. Ask about taking more challenging courses and start actively searching for the college you’d like to attend. This will be a time for taking course-required standardized tests, applying for admission to colleges that interest you, and applying for any and all available scholarships. Parents should encourage their children to explore their academic and extracurricular interests while taking on new responsibilities outside of school.

9TH GRADE ◗ Take challenging classes in core academic subjects. Most colleges require four years of English, at least three years of social studies (history, civics, geography, economics, etc.), three years of mathematics, and three years of science, and many require two years of a foreign language. Round out your course load with classes in computer science and the arts. ◗ Begin saving for college if you haven’t already. ◗ Work with one of your parents to estimate your financial aid using FAFSA4caster and be sure to save for college. ◗ Get involved in school- or community-based activities that interest you or let you explore career interests. Consider working, volunteering, and/or participating in academic enrichment programs, summer workshops, and camps with specialty focuses such as music, arts, or science. Remember — it’s quality (not quantity) that counts. ◗ Ask your guidance counselor or teachers what advanced placement courses are available, whether you are eligible, and how to enroll in them. ◗ Use the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search tool to research your career options ◗ Start a list of your awards, honors, paid and volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Update it throughout high school.

PARENTS: ◗ Talk to your child about college plans as if he or she will definitely go to college. ◗ Keep an eye on your child’s study habits and grades — stay involved. ◗ Encourage your child to take advanced placement or other challenging classes. ◗ Add to your child’s college savings account regularly and make sure you are fully aware of the provisions of the account.

10TH GRADE STUDENTS: ◗ Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements. ◗ Consider taking a practice Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) or check out the ACT Aspire exam “sandbox.” (Be sure to check which colleges may no longer require these tests for admission. Because of COVID-19, many are moving to “test-optional” admissions.)

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◗ Plan to use your summer wisely: work, volunteer, or take a summer course (away or at a local college). ◗ Go to career information events to get a more detailed look at career options. ◗ Research majors that might be a good fit with your interests and goals.

PARENTS: ◗ Find out whether your child’s school has college nights or financial aid nights. Plan to attend those events with your child. ◗ Help your child develop independence by encouraging him or her to take responsibility for balancing homework with any other activities or a part-time job.

11TH GRADE STUDENTS:

ALL YEAR ◗ Explore careers and their earning potential in the Occupational Outlook Handbook (bls.gov/ooh). Or, for a fun interactive tool, try the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search at mynextmove.org. ◗ Learn about choosing a college and find a link to the free college search tool (studentaid.ed.gov/sa/prepare-for-college/choosing-schools) ◗ Go to college fairs and college-preparation presentations by college representatives. FALL ◗ Take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). You must take the test in the 11th grade to qualify for scholarships and ◗ programs associated with the National Merit Scholarship Program. SPRING ◗ Register for and take exams for college admission. The standardized tests that many colleges require are the SAT, the SAT Subject Tests, and the ACT. Check with the colleges you are interested in to see what tests they require. Many colleges are making these tests optional for admission. ◗ Use the U.S. Department of Labor’s scholarship search (careerinfonet.org/scholarship search) to find scholarships for which you might want to apply. Some deadlines fall as early as the summer between 11th and 12th grades, so prepare now to submit applications soon.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREY POPOV / DREAMSTIME

STUDENTS:

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We � Memphis We love Memphis and are honored to cover this wonderful city - and we want to share its stories with you. Stay in the know and become an insider today for only $12 (and that’s for 12 issues!). Your subscription will pay for itself in just three issues (newsstand price is $4.99 per issue). To subscribe, order online at memphismagazine.com or call 901.575.9470.

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7/20/20 6:15 PM


Preparing for College c o n t i n u e d SUMMER BEFORE 12TH GRADE

12TH GRADE

STUDENTS:

STUDENTS:

PARENTS: ◗ Create your own FSA ID if you don’t have one yet (The FSA ID is a username and password that you’ll use for such purposes as signing your child’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid.) Note: You must create your own FSA ID. If your child creates it for you, or if you create your child’s, that’ll cause confusion later and will slow down the financial aid application process. ◗ Take a look at your financial situation and be sure you’re on the right track to pay for college. ◗ Talk to your child about the schools he or she is considering. Ask why those schools appeal to your child and help him or her clarify goals and priorities. ◗ Attend college fairs with your child but don’t take over the conversation with the college representatives. Just listen and let your child do the talking. ◗ Take your child to visit college campuses, preferably when classes are in session. ◗ Make sure your child is looking into or already has applied for scholarships. ◗ Ask your employer whether scholarships are available for employees’ children.

ALL YEAR: ◗ Work hard all the way to graduation — second-semester grades can affect scholarship eligibility. ◗ Stay involved in after-school activities and seek leadership roles if possible. FALL: ◗ As soon as possible after its October 1st release, complete and submit your FAFSA form at fafsa.gov, along with any other financial aid applications your chosen school(s) may require. You should submit your FAFSA form by the earliest financial aid deadline of the schools to which you are applying, usually by early February. ◗ After you submit the FAFSA form, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within three days to three weeks. This document lists your answers to the questions on your FAFSA form and gives you some basic information about your aid eligibility. Quickly make any necessary correction and submit them to the FAFSA processor. ◗ Meet with your school counselor to make sure you are on track to graduate and fulfill college admission requirements. ◗ If you haven’t done so already, register for and take the standardized tests required for college admission. Check with the colleges you are interested in to see what tests they require. ◗ Apply to the colleges you have chosen. Prepare your applications carefully. Follow the instructions and pay close attention to deadlines. ◗ Well before your application deadlines, ask your counselor and teachers to submit required documents (e.g., transcript, letters of recommendation) to the colleges to which you’re applying. SPRING: ◗ Visit colleges that have invited you to enroll. ◗ Review your college acceptances and compare the colleges’ financial aid offers. ◗ Contact a school’s financial-aid office if you have questions about the aid that school has offered you. In fact, getting to know your financial-aid staff early is a good idea no matter what — they can tell you about deadlines, other aid for which you might wish to apply, and important paperwork you might need to submit. ◗ When you decide which school you want to attend, notify that school of your commitment and submit any required financial deposit. Many schools require this notification and deposit by May 1st.

PARENTS: ◗ Work with your child on filling out the FAFSA. Further checklist items and additional college preparedness information can be found at studentaid.ed.gov.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREY POPOV / DREAMSTIME: ILLUSTRATION BY SUPRI SUHARJOTO / DREAMSTIME

◗ Create a username and password called an FSA ID that you’ll use to confirm your identity when accessing your government financial aid information and electronically signing your federal student aid documents. Note: You must create your own FSA ID; if your parent creates it for you, that’ll cause confusion later and will slow down the financial aid application process. ◗ Narrow down the list of colleges you are considering attending. If you can, visit the schools that interest you. ◗ Contact colleges to request information and applications for admission. Ask about financial aid, admission requirements, and deadlines. ◗ Decide whether you are going to apply under a particular college’s early-decision or ◗ early-action program. Be sure to learn about the program deadlines and requirements. ◗ Use the FAFSA4caster financial-aid estimator and compare the results to the actual costs at the colleges to which you will apply. To supplement any aid FAFSA4caster estimates you might receive, be sure to apply for scholarships. Your goal is to minimize the amount of loan funds you borrow.

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with us at UT Martin! Visit

utm.edu/tour to schedule a campus tour.

Jae Williams

Cordova High School graduate

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7/14/20 10:32 AM


HOPE for Tennessee Students You may have everything for college prepared — where you’re going, your roommate, even your major, but you may be struggling with the financial part of your preparations. If your college savings can’t quite cover the costs of tuition, there are solutions to assist in your journey. One such solution for many Tennessee residents attending eligible in-state institutions is the Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarship Program. The traditional HOPE Scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors who meet the minimum requirements. The needbased HOPE Aspire supplemental award is available to those whose family’s adjusted gross income is $36,000 or less. The General Assembly Merit Scholarship (GAMS), also known as the HOPE Merit Scholarship, is a merit-based supplemental award. The traditional HOPE Scholarship is awarded to entering college freshmen who meet the following requirements:

Aquinas College (003477) Austin Peay State University (003478) Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences (034403) Belmont University (003479) Bethel University (003480) Bryan College (003536) Carson-Newman University (003481) Chattanooga State Community College (003998) Christian Brothers University (003482) Cleveland State Community College (003999)

as a freshman and sophomore and up to $2,250 per full-time enrollment semester as a junior and senior. Students who qualify for the HOPE Scholarship but decide to attend an out-of-state regionally accredited institution will not receive the award; however, if the student transfers back to a HOPE-eligible institution in Tennessee, the student may receive the award if he/ she has met all academic and non-academic requirements while attending the out-of-state institution. Visit tn.gov/collegepays for more information. Prospective students are encouraged to do their research and apply for all available scholarships and grants for which they qualify. Begin with filling out the FAFSA, which is used by colleges across the country to determine the amount of financial aid to award to students. In addition to standard need- and merit-based awards, many schools offer scholarships based on academic achievement, area of study, and other more specific criteria. When choosing a school, be sure to ask about all available financial aid, what’s needed to qualify, and respective deadlines. While many students are eligible for an unsubsidized Stafford Loan regardless of income or circumstances, loans should be taken out only if necessary.

Columbia State Community College (003483) Cumberland University (003485) Dyersburg State Community College (006835) East Tennessee State University (003487) ETSU - School of Pharmacy (E01254) Fisk University (003490) Freed-Hardeman University (003492) Hiwassee College (003494) Jackson State Community College (004937) John A. Gupton College (008859) Johnson University (003495) King University (003496) Knoxville College

Rhodes College (003519) Roane State Community College (009914) South College (004938) Southern Adventist University (003518) Southwest Tennessee Community College (010439) Tennessee State University (003522) Tennessee Technological University (003523) Tennessee Wesleyan University (003525) Trevecca Nazarene University (003526) Tusculum College (003527) Union University (003528) University of Memphis (003509)

Lane College (003499) Lee University (003500) LeMoyne-Owen College (003501) Lincoln Memorial University (003502) Lipscomb University (003486) Martin Methodist College (003504) Maryville College (003505) Middle Tennessee State University (003510) Milligan College (003511) Motlow State Community College (006836) Nashville State Community College (007534) Northeast State Community College (005378) Pellissippi State Community College (012693)

*IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to the current state of emergency related to the COVID-19 crisis, the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) is suspending the rules that Tennessee colleges and universities use to report a student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA) for HOPE scholarship purposes. This temporary suspension will provide institutions flexibility in calculating a student’s GPA when determining continuing eligibility for the HOPE Scholarship and other Tennessee Education Lottery programs. University of Tennessee, Chattanooga (003529) University of Tennessee, Knoxville (003530) University of Tennessee, Martin (003531) University of Tennessee Health Science Center (006725) University of the South (003534) Vanderbilt University (003535) Volunteer State Community College (009912) Walters State Community College (008863) Watkins College of Art and Design (031276) Welch College (030018)

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREY POPOV / DREAMSTIME

TENNESSEE EDUCATION LOTTERY PROGRAM ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS

◗ Apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available at fafsa.gov. Applications must be received by September 1st for fall semester or February 1st for spring and summer semesters. Early application is recommended. ◗ Have been a Tennessee resident for at least one year prior to the application date. ◗ Graduate from a Tennessee eligible high school. Exceptions may be granted to Tennessee residents who meet certain criteria, including those who graduate from high schools located in bordering out-of state counties. ◗ Enroll in one of the eligible Tennessee public colleges, universities, or private colleges (see below). ◗ Entering freshmen must achieve a minimum of a 21 ACT (or concordant equivalent score on the SAT), exclusive of the essay and optional subject area battery tests or have an overall weighted minimum 3.0 grade point average (GPA). Please note that because of the Covid-19 situation, many colleges have waived the requirement for standardized testing, such as the ACT or SAT. Check with the colleges you hope to attend for specific requirements. Also check with act.org for testing dates in the fall. ◗ If required, ACT/SAT exams must be taken on a national test date or state test date prior to the first day of college enrollment after high school graduation. The ACT residual test is not accepted. ◗ Must enroll within 16 months following high school graduation at any postsecondary institution. Enrollment at an ineligible postsecondary institution during the 16 months will make the student permanently ineligible. The HOPE Scholarship can be renewed annually if requirements continue to be met. Qualifying recipients who attend four-year or two-year institutions with on-campus housing can receive up to $1,750 per full-time enrollment semester

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Where my search ends and

my calling begins. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of healing people. By choosing Baptist College, I now have infinite possibilities — from nursing to radiography to pre-med. Baptist College offers tomorrow’s health care leaders a chance to fulfill a lifelong calling. Please visit bchs.edu/MyCalling and find the major that’s right for you.

1003 Monroe Ave. | Memphis, TN 38104 | 1-866-575-2247 | 901-575-2247

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7/14/20 10:24 AM


Q&A with Megan Starling

Director of Admission at Rhodes College BY M AT T H E W H A R R I S

For most high schoolers, college applications can be a daunting prospect. Nationwide, millions of students apply for college every year with the hopes that their application will stand out among the crowd. To help ease the process Rhodes College’s Megan Starling offers advice to rising seniors.

Megan Starling

The best way to start preparing for college, and even the application process, is to make the most of the high school experience. There is no need to wait until junior or senior year for that to happen. The various ways that a student might explore their interests and get involved in their community will help inform their college search and prepare them for the best transition to college. Freshmen and sophomores can join clubs and organizations, participate in arts and athletics, and dedicate time and attention to succeeding in their classes. As juniors and seniors, these same students will start to think about how these extracurricular interests translate to opportunities in college. They will have gotten to know their teachers well and challenged themselves to rigor that stretches them. Choosing the right academic schedule will help them identify their favorite (and least favorite) subjects. These students will then have what they need for the college application, but more importantly, they will know something about their interests and strengths to pursue the best college fit.

What are ways that rising seniors can prepare for the college process? Even in the midst of a global pandemic, seniors can still pursue an effective and rewarding college search. Rising seniors need to first figure out what kind of college experience they are seeking. Do they want a large school experience? Do they want to live in a city or a small college town? How far from home do they want to travel? What are the aspects of college that they can’t live with and what are things they can’t live without? What role will finances play? I talk with so many seniors who haven’t spent any time answering these questions for themselves — and started their search only considering what colleges needed from them to be admitted. To build a college list, with the above criteria in mind, students should consult web resources like Cappex, Niche, and Colleges that Change Lives as well as their college advisor (should they have one). With the list made, the exploration begins. Colleges and universities have invested lots of resources into making sure students can research them virtually. While the campus visit would be ideal but may not be possible, students can participate in virtual events that can be as engaging and informative — and no one is limited by the cost or time required to travel. If a campus visit is in your future, please adjust your expectations for what you might experience during your tour. In an effort to keep our guests and community members safe, new policies and procedures might impact how you can experience a residential college campus. You might even find that the virtual offerings more closely represent campus life and culture. Besides shaping and researching the college list, rising seniors should begin thinking about applications themselves. Some early work will be appreciated once a hectic senior year begins. They can begin working on essays, update their resumes, and think about

the best candidates for letters of recommendation. Many seniors would also include standardized testing in their summer and early fall plans. I recommend reviewing the testing requirements of preferred colleges and universities to see how important accessing an ACT or SAT will be. With the number of institutions who have recently announced a “test optional” policy, this might be an area of preparation (and stress) that becomes less important.

What advice would you give to seniors trying to balance their schoolwork, college applications, and extracurricular activities? In some ways, these lessons in time management and balance will serve them well for college and beyond. Keeping up with courses, college applications, and extracurricular activities are all important during senior yeay — but so is enjoying the many fabulous memories and experiences that are only associated with this final year of high school. It’s important to find balance and set priorities that will allow students to actually enjoy senior year. It can be helpful for students to get some of the work related to college applications done early. Many applications open as early as August 1st. Essays can be started over the summer. Designate a regular time each week to spend on college-related needs, so college doesn’t overtake life. Students should also consider what really matters to them during this time, especially if choices can be made that benefit their physical and mental well-being. Many students pursue and continue certain courses and activities in hopes of impressing colleges and universities. The truth is, we want students to pursue a level of difficulty in a class that still allows them to enjoy it. We want students to be internally motivated to participate in activities. Staying healthy and happy in the midst of the stresses of senior year and college applications should be the priority.

What do you look for when reading college applications? Do you have any tips for rising seniors? We spend time connecting all pieces of the application to understand a student’s overall story — what’s known as a holistic review. We are trying to discern how academically prepared they are to enroll at our institution and how they will contribute to our campus community once they arrive. Certainly, we get the greatest sense of preparedness from the rigor of the curriculum, the grade point average as well as individual grades and trends, and the standardized test score. Moving forward, Rhodes College and many other schools across the country have decided to make the test score an optional part of the application. Too many students won’t be able to take a standardized test in time for fall deadlines, so accessing testing would serve as a barrier to admission. You can expect admission offices to pay closer attention to the high school record when a test score isn’t required. Now, more than ever, it’s important to make sure that an anomaly on a transcript is proactively addressed by the applicant. Students should offer an explanation rather than ask a counselor to guess.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY RHODES COLLEGE

When should high school students start preparing for college and the college application process?

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We get an idea of how they might enhance our community through letters of recommendation from counselors and teachers, the student’s own personal statement, and a review of their activities and interests from high school. One of my tips comes from that list of activities and interests — please don’t submit an additional résumé. A résumé is a great way to plan for the college application by collecting all of one’s achievements and experiences in one place. From there, students should use the space provided in the application itself to communicate how they spent their time outside of class. The limited space sometimes requires students to prioritize what they include, and that is by design. Conversely, there is no need to use every line of the activities section. We are looking for quality over quantity, meaningful over trivial.

#powertheGOOD

What are some tips that you would give to students who may be having difficulty with applications? Some of the stress of completing applications can be solved through better organization. Keep a folder for each college or a spreadsheet that clearly outlines items that are required, when each is due, and whether or not it has been submitted. Scholarship and financial aid requirements should be included too. You might also include login information if the school has an online portal so that you can quickly confirm what the school has received. Staying on top of deadlines helps avoid lots of last-minute stress. I think it can also be helpful for students to reframe the way they think about college applications. It’s true that there is some biographical information to complete which is tedious and hardly rewarding. However, the majority of many college applications ask students to tell their stories: how have you spent your time in high school, how did you perform in your classes, what do you want to share about yourself through a personal statement, how have you made an impact on your teachers and your school community? Rarely do people get the chance to convey so much of what matters to them and why as in college applications. If students consider the story-telling opportunity that their applications represent, they might not seem so arduous to complete.

Can you offer any extra tips or advice? Give yourself and the schools on your college list grace and patience in this process. There is so much you can’t control, even in “normal” times. There is also so much about this application year that remains unknown to both students and families and the colleges and universities. There are enough outstanding questions and what ifs to drive us all crazy. We are doing our best to remain flexible while providing answers and alternatives. Your concerns about an unrepresentative spring semester, canceled activities, lack of access to standardized testing, the inability to visit campuses, and financial instability are all founded and legitimate. Remember that your concerns are shared around the world by your peers — you are not alone. Colleges and universities hear you and are working hard to ensure that you can still find the best academic, social, and financial fit possible. 2 0 2 0 C O L L E G E G U I D E • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 15

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Colleges and Universities LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES Belhaven University - DeSoto

Moore Tech

7111 Southcrest Parkway, Southaven, MS (38671) | 662-469-5387 memphis.belhaven.edu ENROLLMENT: 150 FACULTY: 1 full-time, 30 adjunct TUITION: $250/credit hour (undergraduate, military), $405/credit-hour (undergraduate, non-military); $375/credit-hour (graduate, military), $535-$575/credit-hour (graduate, non-military, depending on program) HOUSING: N/A

1200 Poplar Avenue (38104) | 726-1977 williamrmoore.org ENROLLMENT: 310 full-time and part-time students FACULTY: 15 full-time, 11 part-time TUITION: $2,150/trimester (full-time day student); $1,290/ trimester (half-time day student); $930/trimester (night student); $3,420/trimester (Automotive Service Technology); $320 additional/trimester for Associate Degree candidates; $200/trimester (Welding Lab fee); $135 for first trimester only for welding kits; $200/trimester (Machining Lab fee) HOUSING: N/A

University of Memphis

2095 Appling Road, Cordova (38016) | 751-8453 collegeatmidamerica.com ENROLLMENT: 200 FACULTY: 24 TUITION: $325/credit-hour (traditional), $325/credit-hour (online) HOUSING: $347-$367/month (dorms), $577-$765/month (apartments)

Christian Brothers University 650 East Parkway South (38104) | 321-3000 cbu.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,892 FACULTY: 105 full-time TUITION: $16,950/semester, $1,245/credit-hour HOUSING: $3,150 - $6,300/semester

Gould’s Academy Park Place Campus 1203 Ridgeway Road, Suite 203 (38119) | 767-6647 Bartlett Campus 8000 U.S. Highway 64, Suite 108 (38133) | 842-1772 gouldsacademy.com ENROLLMENT: 240 (combined) FACULTY: 38 (combined) TUITION: Cosmetology, $18,650 (includes books, kits, and fees); Esthetics, $13,075 (includes books, kits, and fees); Manicuring, $9,950 (includes books, kits, and fees); Instructor, $5,600 (includes books, kits, and fees) HOUSING: N/A

LeMoyne-Owen College 807 Walker (38126) | 435-1000 loc.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,000 (average) FACULTY: 50 full-time, 60 part-time TUITION: Full-time (12-18 credit-hours) $5,388; part-time (fewer than 12 credit-hours) $449 per credit hour; overtime (credit-hours greater than 18); $449 per credit-hour; summer school tuition $449 per credit-hour HOUSING: Double occupancy (two beds/roommate) $1,800; Single occupancy $2,200; Single occupancy of a double room $3,600; Meal plan (required for all dorm residents) $1,250

Northwest Mississippi Community College Senatobia campus - Main campus 4975 Highway 51 North, Senatobia, MS (38655) | 662-562-3200 DeSoto Center campus 5197 W.E. Ross Parkway, Southaven, MS (38671) | 662-342-1570 Lafayette-Yalobusha Technical Center campus 1310 Belk Drive, Oxford, MS (38655) | 662-236-2023 northwestms.edu ENROLLMENT: 7,618 (combined, as of fall 2018) FACULTY: 228 full-time, 190 part-time (combined) TUITION: $1,600/semester full-time (additional $1,200 outof-state full-time); does not include mandatory registration fee ($50/semester), technology fee ($45/semester), or special fees HOUSING: $575-$875/semester (only available at the Senatobia campus)

Rhodes College 2000 North Parkway (38112) | 843-3700 (Admission) rhodes.edu ENROLLMENT: 2,010 FACULTY: 223 TUITION AND FEES: $50,910/year (2020-2021) HOUSING: $11,750/year (room and board, 2020-2021)

Southwest Tennessee Community College 737 Union (38103) / 5983 Macon Cove (38134) | 333-5000 southwest.tn.edu ENROLLMENT: 20,645 (2019 Fall, Spring, and Summer combined) FACULTY: 199 full-time TUITION: $168 (plus fees)/credit-hour or $2,179/term (in-state); $692 (plus fees)/credit-hour or $8,467/term (out-of-state); subject to change, visit southwest.tn.edu/cashier/tuition.htm for current info. A $35 maintenance fee will be assessed for each hour over 12 credit-hours. Nursing and Allied Health students will be charged a $20 per credit-hour program fee. HOUSING: N/A

PHOTOGRAPH BY CALVIN L. LEAKE | DREAMSTIME

The College at Mid-America

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BE EXCELLENT. BE EQUIPPED.

BE TRANSFORMED.

If you’re looking for a college that is committed to the Bible while at the same time offering an academically excellent curriculum, Union University in Jackson is for you. If you’re an adult student in Memphis looking to complete your bachelor’s degree, earn your graduate degree or prepare yourself for ministry in an urban context, Union University offers options for you, too, through our Germantown campus and the Memphis College of Urban and Theological Studies (MCUTS) in Midtown. Whatever the case, at Union University, you’ll be transformed through rigorous, Christ-centered academics and a vibrant Christian community that will prepare you for wherever God has called you to serve. BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY TODAY AT uu.edu OR uu.edu/memphis

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BE TRANSFORMED

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d Union University Germantown campus - 2745 Hacks Cross Road (38138) | 759-0029 uu.edu/germantown ENROLLMENT: 750 FACULTY: 35 TUITION: $16,740/semester + $575 fees (full-time); $1,075 per credit-hour + $45/credit-hour in fees (part-time) HOUSING: $3,625-$4,025 per semester

University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law 1 N. Front Street (38103) | 678-2421 memphis.edu/law ENROLLMENT: 310 FACULTY: 27 TUITION: In-state tuition for year: $19,218 (based on 30 credit-hours) IN-STATE tuition for one semester: $9,609 (based on 15 credit-hours) OUT-OF-STATE annually: $24,008 (based on 30 credit-hours) OUT-OF-STATE for one semester: $12,004 (based on 15 credit-hours) HOUSING: $10,425/year (estimate)

University of Memphis

ENTRIES ACCEPTED

BEGINNING AUGUST 10 VOTING DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED ENTER TO WIN $100 PRIZE PACKAGE!

3720 Alumni Avenue (38152) | 678-2000 memphis.edu Collierville Center 215 W. Poplar, Collierville (38017) | 678-5515 Millington Center 6500 Navy Road, Millington (38053) | 678-4171 ENROLLMENT: 22,044 FACULTY: 930 full-time TUITION: $4,956/$6,876/$8,796 (undergraduate, 12 hours, resident/non-resident/international per semester); $5,970/$7,890/$9,810 (graduate, 10 hours, resident/non-resident/international per semester) HOUSING: $4,660-$6,700/year (residence halls); $5,380-$7,400/year (apartments/townhouses); $7,700$8,880/year (student family housing)

University of Mississippi - DeSoto

PREMIERING

AUGUST 10-14 VI RT UAL SUMMI T Advocacy. Action. Ask.

Because the work of Nonprofits never stop, we are here, Now & Beyond. The 2020 MidSouth Nonprofit Conference goes virtual, August 10-14.

MIDSOUTHNONPROFITCONFERENCE.ORG

5197 W.E. Ross Parkway, Southaven, MS (38671) | 662-342-4765 olemiss.edu/desoto ENROLLMENT: 500 FACULTY: 21 full-time, 42 part-time/adjunct TUITION:$1,089.75/$3,123.75 per 3-hour course (undergraduate, in-state/non-resident); $1,452.75/$4,164.75 per 3-hour course (graduate, in-state/non-resident). Non-resident undergraduate students with a 2.0 GPA receive the Regional Campus Out-of-State Scholarship to cover non-resident tuition at UM-DeSoto. Non-resident graduate students admitted to a master’s program at UM-DeSoto also qualify for the Regional Campus Out-of-State Scholarship. HOUSING: N/A

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IN NASHVILLE, EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST TEACHER.

And as a Lipscomb student, you won’t spend all your time in a classroom hearing about your area of study—you’ll be out there doing it. Pursue your calling in the heart of a thriving city. Lipscomb’s vast professional network will set your career in motion. It makes a difference where you end up.

COME TO NASHVILLE AND SEE FOR YOURSELF.

ACADEMY | UNDERGRADUATE | GRADUATE | ONLINE

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d Visible Music College

from Memphis 118 115 SWEET SWEET YEARS YEARS

200 Madison Avenue (38103) | 381-3939 visible.edu ENROLLMENT: 240 FACULTY: 27 TUITION: $20,000/year flat rate for three years for BA (includes books; no fees) HOUSING: $6,000/year (room and board) NOTE: 100% internship and job placement. 100% of students receive some scholarship. 12 campus sites globally.

Webster University - Memphis Naval Support Activity 5750 Essex Street, Room 7144, Millington, TN (38054) | 873-1531 webster.edu/memphis ENROLLMENT: 200 FACULTY: 35 TUITION: $645/semester-hour for civilians, $380/ semester-hour for military and First Responders; online: $780/semester-hour for civilians, $470/semester-hour for military HOUSING: N/A

Memphis, TN | 800.355.0358 | dinstuhls.com 231Grove New Byhalia Road 436 Park Collierville Memphis

436 GrovePoplar Park 7730 Poplar Avenue PleasantView View RdRd 7730 Avenue 52805280 Pleasant Memphis Memphis Germantown Germantown Memphis

MEDICINE Baptist College of Health Sciences 1003 Monroe Avenue (38104) | 575-2247 bchs.edu ENROLLMENT: 989 FACULTY: 63 TUITION: $453/credit-hour HOUSING: $1,524 double occupancy, $2,520 single occupancy/trimester

Concorde Career College

everything 1636 UNION AVENUE

901.276.6321

5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 132, Memphis, TN (38137) | 901-761-9494 7900 Airways Boulevard, Suite 103, Southaven, MS (38671) | 662-429-9909 concorde.edu ENROLLMENT: 900 FACULTY: 65 TUITION: Varies by program; visit concorde. edu/disclosures Housing: N/A

Methodist Healthcare Education Program Methodist University Hospitals Schools of Radiologic and Imaging Services 1265 Union Avenue (38104) | 516-8099 methodisthealth.org RADIOLOGIC SCIENCE SCHOOL TUITION: $6,000 plus books/year ($12,000 for 2-year program) ADVANCED MEDICAL IMAGING INTERNSHIP PROGRAM TUITION: $1,000/3 months DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY PROGRAM TUITION: $10,500 plus books/15 months

artcentermemphis.com

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MISSISSIPPI COLLEGE We have a mission. You have a calling. Our mission at Mississippi College is to provide an educational experience marked by academic excellence and commitment to the cause of Christ. Not only do we strive to transform our students intellectually, but we aim to develop the whole person — socially, spiritually, emotionally — so that they can enter the world bolder, better, and wiser, ready to pursue and fulfill their life’s calling. MC has maintained its focus on this mission for nearly two centuries, since 1826. As the oldest university and the largest private institution in the state, MC offers a variety of academic

programs for its students, including over 80 areas of undergraduate study, meaning there is something for just about everyone at MC. Plus, with more than 70 chartered student organizations and 17 Division II athletic teams, there is never a shortage of activity to keep you engaged, from archery to the Student Government Association to intramurals and campus-sponsored concerts. MC is large enough to afford you a variety of opportunities to satisfy your interests, passions, and pursuits, but small enough that you will be more than just a number here. Furthermore, MC is a rare find in the

field of Christian higher education with a cost that is approximately $15,000 less per year than the average private university. With our generous scholarship program, MC is a viable option for many students and that is why we recently ranked as a “Best Value” by U.S. News & World Report. For our students, higher education means more than getting a degree. It means finding a family away from home, having their Christian values reinforced in all areas of their lives, and establishing an educational foundation upon which they will continue to build the rest of their careers.

200 S. CAPITOL STREET, CLINTON, MS 39056•601.925.3000•mc.edu

OUR MISSION:

your

Calling.

MC offers over 85 areas of study to keep you sharp, over 70 campus clubs and organizations to keep you thriving, and a commitment to Christ to keep you grounded. Whatever your interests, whatever your goals, whatever your calling, MC can help you achieve your highest aspirations.

VISIT US TO RECEIVE THE $500 VISIT SCHOLARSHIP!

5,100

UNIQUE STUDENTS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY

85+

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

$15,000 LESS THAN THE AVERAGE PRIVATE UNIVERSITY

mc.edu/visit admissions@mc.edu 601/925-3800 mc.edu

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d Southern College of Optometry 1245 Madison Avenue (38104) | 722-3200 sco.edu ENROLLMENT: 538 FACULTY: 60 TUITION: $19,092/year (regional students), $38,292/ year (non-regional) HOUSING: N/A

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center 910 Madison Avenue (38163) | 448-5500 uthsc.edu ENROLLMENT: 3,252 (statewide, fall 2019) FACULTY: 1,766 (statewide, fall 2019) TUITION: $4,515-$18,016.50/semester (in-state); $8,666$34,562/semester (out-of-state) (for more information go to https://uthsc.edu/finance/bursar/fees.php) HOUSING: N/A

RELIGIOUS COLLEGES AND SEMINARIES Bethel University 5885 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 100 (38120) | 767-2367 bethelsuccess.net ENROLLMENT: on-campus: 1,178 online: 3,672 FACULTY: 183 TUITION: $15,750 full-time/academic year (undergraduate); $476/credit-hour part-time (undergraduate); $510/credit-hour (MS in Criminal Justice); $613/credit-hour (MBA); $503/credit-hour (MA in Education); $12,500/semester (physician assistant); $500/credit hour (high school dual enrollment); $238/credit-hour (undergraduate summer rates) HOUSING: Double: $5,590 - $5,814/year; Private: $7,206 - $7,482/year (varies by dorm)

Harding School of Theology 1000 Cherry Road (38117) | 432-7750 hst.edu ENROLLMENT: 155 (fall 2019) FACULTY: 10 full-time TUITION: $680/credit-hour HOUSING: $570-$786/month

Memphis Theological Seminary 168 East Parkway South (38104) | 458-8232 memphisseminary.edu ENROLLMENT: about 217 FACULTY: 11 full-time TUITION: $610 per credit-hour for all programs; scholarsips are available HOUSING: Available, price varies

Mid-South Christian College 3097 Knight Road (38181) | 375-4400 midsouthchristian.edu ENROLLMENT: 30 FACULTY: 12 TUITION: $240/credit hour HOUSING: $1,600-$2,400/year 22 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 2 0 2 0 C O L L E G E G U I D E

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SCO IS PROUD OF THE CONTRIBUTIONS WE MAKE TO OUR COMMUNITY. As Tennessee’s only optometry college, Southern College of Optometry attracts more than 500 of the nation’s top optometry students to Memphis each year. These outstanding interns join SCO’s 60 faculty members in helping 60,000 patients see better each year at: • The Eye Center on the SCO campus, • SCO’s FocalPoint location inside Crosstown Concourse, • University Eyecare on the University of Memphis campus, and • Aboard our MobilEYES unit. SCO’s faculty, students, and residents are proud to carry out our mission as we train eye doctors and help Memphians see better.

1245 Madison Av., Memphis, TN 38104

SCHEDULE AN EYE EXAMINATION TODAY AT ONE OF OUR OUTSTANDING CLINICAL LOCATIONS.

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|

901-722-3200

|

sco.edu

Crosstown Concourse

1225 Madison Ave.

U of M Campus

901-252-3670

901-722-3250

901-252-3697

focalpointcrosstown.com

eyecentermemphis.com

uofmeyecare.com

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Designed By Nossi Graduate Julius Kiprotich © 2020 Nossi College of Art. All Rights Reserved.

OVER 3 MILLION IN SALES BY SECOND QUARTER OF 2020!

From founding the HiTone and overseeing some of the best kitchens in town to succeeding in local real estate since 2007, this 30-year Memphian and entrepreneur, David Lorrison, knows Memphis!

SOLD M U LT I P L E X

1616 MONROE AVE MEMPHIS, TN 38104

SOLD M I D - C E N T U RY MODE R N

998 FAIR MEADOW RD MEMPHIS, TN 38117

David maintains a sense of urgency and work ethic that is hard to find. We have really enjoyed working with him over the past few years as both a listing and selling agent. I would highly recommend him for buying or selling an investment property in Memphis! — Clifton Stone with Riverstone Properties We now live in the perfect mid-century modern dream house! There is no way we could’ve found our home or been able to close so quickly if it weren’t for David’s knowledge, guidance, and persistence. — Dr. and Mrs. E. Ritter Sansoni

David Lorrison 901.484.8663 • 901.466.4000

SOLD DUPLEX

266 HAWTHORNE ST MEMPHIS, TN 38112

SOLD C O T TA G E

746 HOLLY ST

MEMPHIS, TN 38112

©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d OUT OF TOWN Arkansas State University Mid-South (ASU Mid-South) 2000 W. Broadway Ave., West Memphis, AR (72301) | 870-733-6722 asumidsouth.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,423 (as of fall 2018) FACULTY: 117 (40 full-time, 77 adjunct) TUITION: $95/credit hour (in-county), $115/credit hour (metro area) HOUSING: N/A

Mid South Internal Medicine looks forward to welcoming

Stephen M. Johnson, M.D.

Belhaven University 1500 Peachtree St., Jackson, MS (39202) | 601-968-5940 belhaven.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,100 (traditional; does not include online) FACULTY: 95 full-time, 120 adjunct (does not include online) TUITION: $13,325/semester HOUSING: $4,400-$5,750/semester (room and board)

Birmingham-Southern College 900 Arkadelphia Rd., Birmingham, AL (35254) | 1-800-523-5793 bsc.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,176 FACULTY: 110 full-time, 10-20 adjunct TUITION: $17,650/semester (includes required fees) HOUSING: $12,402/year (room and board)

Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

A lifelong Memphian, Dr. Johnson received a Bachelor of Science degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He then graduated as a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Alabama School of Medicine. Dr. Johnson is Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Johnson brings four years of experience in his field to Mid South Internal Medicine and is looking forward to building long-term relationships with his patients, school aged to adult.

Delta State University 1003 W. Sunflower Road, Cleveland, MS (38733) | 1-800-GOTODSU deltastate.edu ENROLLMENT: 3,761 FACULTY: 614 TUITION: $3,975.50/semester (full-time undergraduate), $331/credit-hour (part-time undergraduate); $3,975.50 (full-time graduate), $442/credit-hour (part-time graduate) HOUSING: $2,167.50 -$3,672/semester

Harding University 915 East Market Avenue, Searcy, AR (72149) | 501-279-4000 harding.edu ENROLLMENT: 4,879 FACULTY: 370 TUITION: $700/hour HOUSING: $1,882-2,475

John Brown University 2000 W. University Street, Siloam Springs, AR (72761) | 479-524-9500 jbu.edu ENROLLMENT: 2,516 FACULTY: 86 full-time, 112 adjunct TUITION: $28,288/semester (with fees) HOUSING: $9,544/year

Mid South Internal Medicine 7550 Wolf River Blvd #102 901-767-5000 | wolfriverwellness.com 2020-0716 WRW-Johnson MemMag Ad.indd 1

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CHRISTIAN BROTHERS UNIVERSITY

Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d Lyon College 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville, AR (72501) | 870-307-7000 lyon.edu ENROLLMENT: 676 FACULTY: 88 TUITION: $28,550 (+ $865 fees) HOUSING: $5,610

Mississippi College

START HERE.

Succeed anywhere. • Guaranteed internships for all students in all majors. • 97% of CBU graduates have a full-time job or are enrolled in graduate school within 12 months. • International Lasallian alumni network helps graduates succeed around the world.

w w w. c b u . e d u

200 S. Capitol Street, Clinton, MS (39058) | 601-925-3800 mc.edu ENROLLMENT: 5,100 FACULTY: 229 full-time TUITION: $19,508 HOUSING: $9,700/year (room and board)

Mississippi State University 75 B.S. Hood Road, Mississippi State, MS (39762) | 662-325-2323 msstate.edu ENROLLMENT: 22,226 (fall 2019) FACULTY: 1,245 full-time, 212 part-time (2019) TUITION: $8,910/year (in-state), $23,950/year (out-ofstate) for 2019-2020 HOUSING: $10,436/year for 2019-2020 (average room & board, required for freshman)

Samford University 800 Lakeshore Drive, Homewood, AL (35229) | 205-726-2011 samford.edu ENROLLMENT: 5,619 (fall 2018) FACULTY: 347 full-time TUITION: $31,650/year (full-time, undergraduate; fall 2018) HOUSING: $5,275/semester

Philander Smith College 900 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Dr., Little Rock, AR (72202) | 501-375-9845 philander.edu ENROLLMENT: 891 FACULTY: 56 TUITION: $12,564 HOUSING: $8250

Tennessee Tech University 1 William L. Jones Drive, Cookeville, TN‎ (38505) | 931-372-3101 tntech.edu ENROLLMENT: 10,140 (fall 2019) FACULTY: 645 TUITION: $8,934/year HOUSING: $1,175-$5,760.00/year (based on resident hall style selected)

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Monday-Friday 10:00-5:00 Saturday 11:00-4:00 84 N. Main | Collierville, TN 38017 • 901.861.7111 • www.FirstFruitCollection.com

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d Tennessee Wesleyan University

DO More good for the organizations and causes you value. More good for the communities that benefit from your generosity. More good for your financial plan, with professional, strategic fund management. The Community Foundation of Greater Memphis brings it all together, so you can give where giving does more good. For everyone.

204 East College Street, Athens, TN (37303) | 1-844-PickTWU twcnet.edu ENROLLMENT: 1,012 FACULTY: 66 TUITION: $25,150/year HOUSING: $8,050-$9,890/year (including meal plan)

University of Alabama 801 University Blvd., Tuscaloosa, AL (35487) | 205-348-6010 ua.edu ENROLLMENT: 38,103 (fall 2019) FACULTY: 1,528 full-time, 499 part-time TUITION: $10,780/year (in-state), $30,250/year (out-ofstate) (2020-21) HOUSING: $6,900/year ($11,012 with unlimited meal plan) (2020-21)

University of Arkansas

MORE

Fayetteville, AR (72701) | 479-575-2000 uark.edu ENROLLMENT: 27,559 FACULTY: 1,401 (full-time) TUITION: $312.83-$862.42/credit-hour (undergraduate), $491.22-$1,228.93/credit-hour (graduate) HOUSING: $5,665/semester (includes boarding)

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) University, MS (38677) | 662-915-7211 olemiss.edu ENROLLMENT: 23,090 FACULTY: 2,222 TUITION: $8,550 (average annual tuition) HOUSING: $6,140 (average annual housing cost)

The University of Southern Mississippi

PHOTOGRAPH BY RICHARD MCGUIRE | DREAMSTIME

GOOD

118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, MS (39406) | 601-266-1000 usm.edu ENROLLMENT: 14,133 (Fall 2019) FACULTY: 871 TUITION: General tuition $4,448/semester; nonresident tuition $5,448/semester (scholarships start with a 21 on the ACT and a 3.0 GPA as long as students are admitted by December 1st) HOUSING: $2,240-$3,568

WHERE GIVING DOES MORE GOOD | CFGM.ORG

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The College Choice

Faced with two options, a student shares how he made his decision about what school to attend.

GRAHAM’S FOR YOUR HOME

BY M AT T H E W J . H A R R I S

When Jacob Ackerman began his college search in the spring of 2019, he instantly was drawn to Rhodes College. “I heard about the school through a college fair,” he says. “I met one of the admissions counselors and started looking into the school. I knew I wanted to go pre-med and that they had a good pre-med program, so I was interested right off the bat.” Throughout the fall Ackerman spent hours weighing the pros and cons of various schools, trying to find the best fit for himself narrowing down his list of schools until only two remained: Rhodes College and Gustavus Adolphus College in Ackerman’s home state of Minnesota. This left him with a choice. He could trust his gut and move 13 hours away from home or go with what was known.

Rhodes College

PHOTOGRAPH BY RICHARD MCGUIRE | DREAMSTIME

Jacob Ackerman “It was hard because I knew on paper Rhodes was the better school, but I had been to Gustavus multiple times and it was closer to home. I had never stepped foot on Rhodes’ campus,” says Ackerman. “A lot of my friends were also very critical of my decision as well. When I would tell them that I was looking at Rhodes they would tell me that it was too far or that I that I needed to be closer to family.” As his family prepared to visit Rhodes the COVID -19 pandemic shelved the plans. As Rhodes shut down its campus to outside visitors, Ackerman was left without a way to visit the campus. Despite this setback, he was still determined to give Rhodes a fair shot. Throughout the spring Ackerman reached out to current students and staff so that he could get a better understanding of what it would be like to go to Rhodes. During the time he tried to put himself into the shoes of a

Rhodes student. What ultimately convinced him was a conversation with one of the staff members at Rhodes. “He spent a lot of time describing the community and what really swayed me was the inclusivity of the campus,” he says. “I had been worried about going to a place that was not going to accept me and make me feel like an outlier. After talking to enough people I eventually felt like Rhodes was the best place for me.” Ackerman’s parents were also a big part of his decision. Though his mother wanted him to stay close to home, when Ackerman laid out the facts, the benefits of Rhodes justified her son’s decision. His father was more hesitant, though. “My dad was very nervous because the South was so different than Minnesota. He wanted to make sure that I would be safe coming down to Memphis,” says Ackerman. “What changed his mind were his experiences when he was my age. He had joined the Army at 18 and had been overseas when he was my age.” Despite his excitement, there are still many unknowns. When asked how classes were going to go in the fall Ackerman admits that he was unsure what the school’s plans were. “There’s a still a lot of things that I’m nervous about because I don’t know what’s going to happen,” he says. “Right now, I’m trying not to be worried about the unknowns and just focus on all the things I know and can look forward to.”

Lighting | Outdoor Living | Hardware Midtown & Cordova

Serving the Mid-South for over 60 years.

Cordova Showroom 8150 Macon Rd. Cordova, TN 38018 901.757.2465 Midtown Showroom 550 S. Cooper Memphis, TN 38104 901.274.6780

www.grahamslighting.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm 2 0 2 0 C O L L E G E G U I D E • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 29

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Colleges and Universities c o n ti n u e d University of Tennessee, Knoxville Knoxville, TN (37996) | 865-974-1000 utk.edu ENROLLMENT: 28,894 FACULTY: 1,586 TUITION: $13,378/$31,798 (undergraduate, in-state/outof-state per year); $13,494/$31,912 (graduate, in-state/out-of-state per year); $20,334/$39,008 (law, in-state/out-of-state per year); $15,594/$29,648 (law flexible schedule, in-state/out-of-state per semester) $29,336/$56,602 (veterinary medicine, in-state/out-of-state per year) HOUSING: Rates vary depending on the type of room

The University of Tennessee at Martin 554 University Street, Martin, TN (38238) | 731-881-7020 utm.edu ENROLLMENT: 7,296 (fall 2019) FACULTY: 292 full-time (2020-21) TUITION: $4,874/semester (in-state, undergraduate 2020-21), $5,308/semester (in-state, graduate 2020-21) HOUSING: $1,460/semester (Ellington and Browning Hall, double occupancy), 2020-21

Vanderbilt University

WE’RE BACK FOR

ANOTHER

BITE!

PRESENTED BY

BENEFITTING

his Don’t miss out on the 5th annual Memp August 5th Flyer Burger Week! From Wednesday,can ple through Tuesday, August 11th, you n sam the best burgers around tow

for just $5.99!

2301 Vanderbilt Place, Nashville (37235) | 615-322-7311 vanderbilt.edu ENROLLMENT: 13, 131 (2019-20) FACULTY: 4,358 full-time, 425 part-time TUITION: $50,800 (undergraduate, 2019-20) HOUSING: $5,522/semester (2019-20)

Watkins College of Art, Design & Film 2298 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, Nashville, TN (37228) | 615-383-4848 watkins.edu ENROLLMENT: 200 FACULTY: 20 full-time, 40 adjunct TUITION: $22,800/year HOUSING: $3,425/semester

Webster University 470 E. Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves, MO (63119) | 800-981-9801 webster.edu ENROLLMENT: 11,957 FACULTY: 195 full-time, 737 adjunct (combined) TUITION: $645-$780/semester-hour for civilians, $380/ semester-hour for military; online: $780/semester-hour for civilians, $470/semester-hour for military HOUSING: $2,520 - $6,410

Check out MEMPHISFLYERBURGERWEEK.COM for an updated list of participating Burger Week restaurants and all of the juicy Burger Week details!

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A Degree. A Skill. A Job. A Career. In Two Years. • • • • • • •

Weld a trans-continental gas line or an offshore rig. Become a top technician in a prestige auto dealership. Air condition and heat a skyscraper. Keep the electrical power running in a factory. Machine a new knee for a linebacker. Install plumbing in a new custom home. Be the go-to tech in a mall with 100 retailers.

Go to mooretech.edu. Call 726-1977 for a conference. Pell Grants, Tennessee Promise and private scholarships available.

Main Campus, 1200 Poplar Avenue Automotive Campus, 2785 S. Mendenhall Welding Campus, 475 N. Bellevue Blvd.

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PHOTO CREDITS: TOP RIGHT BY KIT1NYC | DREAMSTIME / TOP LEFT BY SAMUEL X. CICCI | BOTTOM CENTER COURTESY KAREN CARRIER

DINING

Rewriting the Recipe

The Memphis restaurant industry may be down, but it’s certainly not out, as owners introduce creative ways to retain customers — and keep them safe.

above left: Beauty Shop owner Karen Blockman Carrier repurposed geodosic domes into a new dining experience in the Back Do / Mi Yard patio. above right: To comply with social distancing and safety regulations, restaurants are requiring dining parties to be placed six feet apart.

BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

F

or three months, Karen Carrier toiled away in the Beauty Shop kitchen to fulfill a steady influx of takeout orders. No team, no servers, no dine-in customers — just Carrier and chef Shay Widmer cranking out meals, six days a week. It was tiring work, but Carrier wasn’t about to shut down her restaurant completely. That would mean almost two decades of work gone in an instant, and her staff, whom she considers family, wouldn’t have jobs to come back to. And so, like most of her peers, she soldiered on, even as restaurants struggled with an uncertain future. When the hammer came, it came down hard. In mid-March, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland enforced closures on Memphis bars and restaurants, a huge decision made necessary by the increasing spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly, one of Memphis’ most thriving and creative industries saw a massive dip in revenue, while many kitchen and service staff found themselves out of a job. But even in upended times, establishments are finding a way to hold on. Several months on from the initial lockdown, the reopening process, undertaken in June, was partially reversed in July following local surges in coronavirus cases. (Note: this issue of Memphis was sent to the printer July 20th.) The Beauty Shop carefully

Karen Carrier

followed the first phases of a reopening plan, but as conditions in Memphis worsened, the Shelby County Health Department issued its Directive No. 8 on July 7th, mandating that bars must close once again, while restaurants dining rooms must close by 10 p.m. Meanwhile, restaurants must collect phone numbers of all customers to help with contact tracing as needed. There’s no easy solution, not in 2020 America. Public spaces like bars and restaurants find themselves at the center of an unfortunate, if predictable, argument over “safety” versus “liberty” when it comes to social distancing and wearing a mask in public. On the consumer side, there’s another ethical dilemma. In the midst of a pandemic, dining out can be an unsettling experience. Even with restaurants adhering thoroughly to safety protocols, there’s still an element of risk to both patrons and staff. But the alternative — further jeopardizing the existence of a vibrant, generous restaurant industry and the local jobs it supports — is nauseating in its own right. Allowing Memphians to self-govern when it comes to public safety only works when everyone buys in to preventative measures, and so far, that’s not been the case. A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 113

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had to lay off her Beauty Shop Staff, and not just in the health sense. “When the mandate first ordered us to shut down on a Thursday night, the first thing I did was start a GoFundMe page for my staff,” says Carrier. “And then that Friday morning, I called a meeting for everyone from Mollie Fontaine Lounge, DKDC, the Beauty Shop, and Another Roadside Attraction.” When they arrived, staff members lined up and applied for unemployment on two computers Carrier set up. Some of her workers, she says, don’t own computers, and might have had trouble applying otherwise. “This meant they had something going on at least,” she continues, “but I was really concerned. — Chef Tamra Patterson Who knew how long this was going to last? I have employees that have been with me 35 years. Lots of turnover affects the quality of a restaurant, so I like to approach this more like a family, as opposed to something corporate.” When restaurants were allowed to reopen, Carrier’s full staff returned to the Beauty Shop after passing a COVID-19 test. While the restaurant looked much the same, the day-to-day operation incorporated new safety protocols. Carrier brought in wax paper bags to store silverware, while a bar cart enabled servers to ferry plates to diners with minimal contact. And through July, the Beauty Shop supplemented employee income with what they had been making on unemployment. There were some initial growing pains with the new protocols, especially with the deluge of customers who poured in when the Beauty Shop reopened in early June. “We got hit hard,” says Carrier. “Everyone wanted to get outside the house, you know? I wasn’t sure how it would go, but everybody really stepped up.” After a first week of trial and error, things are running smoothly. To ensure social distancing, Carrier is utilizing space in the main restaurant, Bar DKDC next door, and the outdoor Back Do / Mi Yard. The back patio, perhaps, provides one of the pandemic’s great restaurant innovations. Instead of the normal layout, two large geodesic domes are set up around tables and chairs. They certainly embody the aesthetic of something straight out of a sci-fi novel; these days, it might just be the perfect setup. “It’s a funny story,” says Carrier. “I actually bought these last October for Back Do / Mi Yard. I’d purchased them to have a heated space outside in the winter, but it started raining so much before that, they were really the only things I could set up there. They weren’t initially bought for this pandemic; for a while we called them very expensive storage units, but it’s worked out now.” Each unit is air-conditioned, but Carrier mentions that they struggle to remain cool inside during the day. For the time being, dome dining is available Monday through Saturday for dinner.

“When this whole thing hit, we could either straighten our backs and get to work, or we could crumble. And I don’t know how to crumble.” Chef Tam

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY CHEF TAM

Amid all the turmoil, restaurants need to function day-to-day to keep their doors open. Chef Tamra Patterson, owner of Chef Tam’s Underground Café, puts the situation most succinctly. “When this whole thing hit, we could either straighten our backs and get to work, or we could crumble,” she says. “And I don’t know how to crumble.” That’s a sentiment echoed by many restaurant owners, who have found creative ways to adapt to the new normal and stay in business.

T

he year started out with optimism for Patterson. She vacated her old location in the Cooper-Young neighborhood and moved to a much larger Edge District space. “Before, we didn’t have the ability to serve as many customers as we wanted,” says Patterson. “We could fit 32 people, max, so we found a space that would give us a better opportunity to grow.” The move gave the restaurant a whole new lease on life; Patterson was already a recognizable name thanks to several memorable stints on The Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games, and her Underground Café hit the ground running in the Edge District. She brought in live music most nights to entertain full houses, with a wait for a table sometimes extending upwards of two or three hours. And with the restaurant capable of holding 150 people at a time, business was booming. The restaurant’s success didn’t shield Patterson from having to make major changes when COVID-19 hit. “Our building has multiple entrances,” explains Patterson, “so we had to close some of them off to create a safer way for people to come in and out. “ With no dine-in allowed, the menu needed to be adjusted so there wasn’t a surplus of ingredients. And while Patterson kept as much of her staff as she could, cuts were still necessary. Chef Tam’s Underground Café plans to continue providing takeout, and Patterson is adamant that it stays that way. “We opened up a few weeks ago,” she says, “but when we saw that the numbers were going crazy in Memphis, we shut it right back down. I don’t want customers to come into our establishment and get sick. We know it’s not enough to bring all of our employees back, but it does put us in a position where we can bring back some folks, and in a safer way.” Safety was a key word for Carrier when she first

O

ther restaurants took their pandemic planning in a different direction — literally. South of Beale (SOB) owner Ed Cabigao had been working on moving his restaurant into the former Ambassador Hotel at 345 S. Main. While the pandemic ultimately delayed the project by a few months, he hedged his bets and went full steam ahead on construction. “We had a conversation with our bank about halting or slowing down the process,” says Cabigao, “but we just thought it would be best to keep pushing forward, hoping that by the time SOB opened in the new spot, things would be a little bit better than they had been.” For Cabigao, the pandemic has afforded him more time to carefully plan out the new digs. The restaurant will jump from 1,700 square feet to 5,000 square feet, with 1,000 of that turned into dedicated kitchen space (as opposed to the old location’s 300). “That will make it way better for the kitchen staff, in terms of safety and efficiency,” he says. “They’ll have more room to operate, and won’t be stuck on top of each other all the time.” Another 1,200 square feet will be set aside for three private dining rooms that can be combined into one larger space. “I think private dining rooms will be in much higher demand than they were even a few months ago,” he says. “People will feel more secure in a separate space, rather than in the middle of the restaurant.” Complementing the interior space is a planned outdoor patio, another feature Cabigao thinks will remain popular.

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Construction on the new SOB has a tentative opening date of October. The old space, which reopened in a limited capacity, has used the pandemic months to experiment with new menu items; anything that proves to be popular with Memphians will become a permanent addition to the new space. But SOB’s footprint may extend farther than Downtown. Cabigao, who also owns Interim restaurant, decided to incorporate a few popular SOB items in the latter’s menu over the past few months. “When everything closed, we tried to do some togo food out of Interim’s kitchen,” he says. “That went well for about a week, but sales dropped off drastically. I think it’s because a lot of that menu is more fine dining and higher price points, and that doesn’t really work for takeout.” The pivot was a hit with East Memphis, which prompted Cabigao to make that change permanent. “We were very sure that it was going to end up as SOB-East. We were remodeling the space and were — Ed Cabigao confident that people would want that type of establishment. There isn’t a lot of food like that in East Memphis, so we’re certainly meeting that demand.” Cabigao sees many of the pandemic-enforced changes, like a focus on curbside and to-go orders, sticking around. SOB is already handling the issue of social distancing with its separate dining spaces and a new patio setup, but Cabigao credits the restaurant’s survival to the work put in over the last decade to make it a recognizable name. “I think the restaurants that will survive this and do well are the ones that already have a good brand that people trust,” he says. “We’ve been around for a decade, our food’s been consistent, so people are familiar with us. Additionally, I think the brands that will do well are the ones that are completely compliant with the safety rules and regulations, like wearing masks, taking temperatures, ensuring social distancing. Guests need to feel that it’s a trustworthy brand, and I think those are the ones people will appreciate when everything is back open.”

“I think the brands that will do well are the ones that are completely compliant with the safety rules and regulations, like wearing masks, taking temperatures, ensuring social distancing.”

F

or all the safety measures in place in local restaurants, it’s important for customers to remember that servers and other front-of-house staff are putting themselves at risk. What can normally be considered a thankless job is now made harder when factoring in health risks and less opportunity for tips. “I would say be kind, be patient, and be aware,” offers Patterson. “Be aware of the changes that restaurants are making and what we’re

Menus accessed via QR codes on personal mobile devices — pictured here at Café Eclectic in Midtown — help protect restaurant-goers by eliminating the need to share printed versions. PHOTOGRAPH BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

Ed Cabigao

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ED CABIGAO

doing to make this a safe space for you. Be courteous, and tip the servers! They’re getting far less customers into the building, which means less tips. They need that little extra boost.” Carrier also maintains that a happy team is of paramount importance. “Front-of-house has to interact with the public,” she says. “It can be tough, so you really have to be on your toes and make sure you know what you’re doing.” With coronavirus cases still rising amid a disheartening national response, the pandemic doesn’t look to be going away any time soon. That places the restaurant industry at a crossroads. Where do they go from here? Owners like Patterson, Carrier, and Cabigao are doing their part to make their interiors as safe as can be, with staff members working extra hard on the sanitation front. Some establishments are pivoting completely, like Majestic Grille’s ghost concept: Cocozza American Italian. The “virtual restaurant” is an entirely separate brand from Majestic and offers Italian takeout or curbside pickup to be enjoyed at home or on the Majestic patio on South Main. It’s a smart middle ground for owners Deni and Patrick Reilly to try something new without putting their workers and customers at risk in an enclosed space. Other establishments, though, haven’t been so lucky amid all this uncertainty. Some restaurants have had to close their doors for good thanks to a severe drop in revenue; the nebulous definition of a “restaurant” has seen a collective of closed bars file a lawsuit against Shelby County and the Health Department in an attempt to remain open. On the other hand, there have been reports that some employees feel pressured to return to work in what they consider unsafe conditions. Some out-of-work restaurant staffers have turned to alternate revenue streams, like the landscaping service Two Broke Bartenders. With plans to make it into a permanent business, there’s a question of whether those who joined the fledgling company as a temporary gig will even return to the hospitality industry. To keep restaurants open and people healthy, there needs to be a united front, with everyone doing their part to beat COVID-19. Luckily, food is the great unifier. And food, as anyone from the Bluff City can attest, is certainly something Memphis does well. A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 115

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SCENE DINING 2020

special advertising section

Looking for the right spot for that first date? What about something new for your next anniversary? Or do you simply find yourself with a hankering for a nice, thick burger and fries? Whatever your craving may be, you’re sure to find a delectable destination on the following pages.

Bhan Thai

1324 Peabody Avenue • 901.272.1538 • bhanthairestaurant.com Owner Molly Smith along with Chef Sorrasit “Alex” Sittranont offers original Thai cuisine in an elegant, friendly environment both inside and outdoors. Our expanded patio is sure to capture your presence! Longtime favorites are pad Thai, tiger cry, crispy duck, tuna and many more. Voted Best Thai 2003-2019. Dinner Tuesday–Friday beginning at 5 p.m. Closed Monday.

Broadway Pizza

Ave • 901.454.7930 & 629 South Mendenhall •• 901.207.1546 901.207.1546 2581 Broad Avenue • 901.454.7930 & 629 S. Mendenhall Old-fashioned pizza house with a lovely comfortable atmosphere where the Old-fashioned pizza house with a lovely comfortable atmosphere where the staff has you feeling like you are in their pizza home. Delicious hot pizzas staff has you feeling like you are in their pizza home. Delicious hot pizzas overflowing with toppings of your choice. Appetizers, salads, spaghetti, overflowing with toppings of your choice. Appetizers, salads, spaghetti, catfish, cheeseburgers, Philly cheese steaks, Broadway whole wings, daily catfish, cheeseburgers, steaks, Broadway whole wings, daily plate lunch specials, andPhilly more.cheese Located in Memphis’ Broad St. Arts District plate lunch specials, and save for cakes made daily. Located and look out, Memphis... NOWroom a second location at in-house 629 South Mendenhall in Memphis’ Broad St.Pizza Arts District and Call-in look out, Memphis ... NOW a second at Poplar. Legendary since 1977. orders are welcomed! location at 629 South Mendenhall at Poplar. Legendary Pizza since 1977. Call-in orders are welcomed!

Celtic Crossing

Lafayette’s Music Room

Celtic Crossing is an authentic Irish pub located in the heart of Midtown’s beloved Cooper-Young District. Custom art and imported furniture from Ireland create a cozy neighborhood hangout where you’ll always find good food, cold Guinness and lively conversation. We offer lunch and dinner every day, featuring food and drink specials, as well as brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Catch your favorite sporting events, 70+ whiskeys and more at the pub. Don’t miss a thing! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Located in Overton Square, the historic Lafayette’s Music Room offers a variety of Southern-inspired dishes for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. With offerings such as po-boys, sliders, shrimp and grits, wood-fired pizzas, and made-from-scratch desserts, Lafayette’s is a staple for all to enjoy great food, good local conversation, and the best live music in town. Lafayette’s is open for dine-in, curbside pickup and delivery on UberEats, Door Dash, Postmates, Grubhub and Bite Squad.

903 S. Cooper St. • 901.274.5151 • celticcrossingmemphis.com

2119 Madison Ave • 901.207.5097 • lafayettes.com

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SCENE DINING 2020

special advertising section

Memphis Pizza Cafe

memphispizzacafe.com memphispizzacafe.com Our crust is prepared one way — thin and crisp. Choose one of our specialty Our crust is prepared thinextensive and crisp.ingredients Choose one of and our specialty pizzas or create your one own way from—our list, see why pizzas or create your“Best own Pizza” from our and see why we’ve been voted 20extensive years in ingredients a row. Bestlist, pizza. Coolest we’ve been “BestOverton Pizza” Square 26 years a row. Best -pizza. Coolest workers. Fivevoted locations: at in 2087 Madison 901.726.5343, workers. Four locations: Overton at 2087 Madison — 901.726.5343, East Memphis at 5061 Park Ave. Square - 901.684.1306, Germantown at 7604 W. East Memphis at 5061 ParkSouthaven Ave. — 901.684.1306, Germantown at 7604and W. Farmington - 901.753.2218, at 5627 Getwell - 662.536.1364, Farmingtonat —797 901.753.2218, Collierville at 797 W. Poplar — 901.861.7800. Collierville W. Poplar -and 901.861.7800

Molly’s La Casita 2006 Madison Ave • 901.726.1873 • mollyslacasita.com Molly’s La Casita has been voted one of the Best Mexican restaurants and Best Margarita for 37 years. Our menu has grown to include pork fajitas and bbq-pork tacos. The fun menu includes enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, vegetarian meals, sandwiches, shrimp tacos, grilled red snapper tacos and a pleasing children’s menu. Save room for dessert and be sure not to miss out on our World Famous Molly’s Margaritas! Open Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Happy hour is 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; and Margarita Monday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Open Flame Bar & Grill / Kabob International Rendezvous 3445 Poplar Ave. • 901.207.4995 • openflametn.com

52 South Second Street • 901.523.2746 • 888.HOGSFLY • hogsfly.com

At Open Flame Bar & Grill / Kabob International, our dishes are authentically prepared and beautifully presented. To satisfy your taste, all of our dishes are carefully prepared and designed to tickle your taste buds. We are specializing in shish kabob and kosher food, our Persian, Mediterranean restaurant provides all varieties of Fresh Kabobs, Halal Meat, Iranian, Turkish, Iraqi, Afghani, and Azerbaijani. Our restaurant is perfect for families, teams, and groups of all ages. We invite you to come and feel the exquisite setting and luscious food of our Persian/Mediterranean restaurant.

The Vergos family has been cooking up food in a downtown Memphis alley since 1948. The pork ribs are legendary, as are the waiters and the vintage Memphis décor. Winner of numerous awards in Southern Living and other publications, the menu offers barbecued ribs, pork shoulder, beef brisket, cheese plates, barbecue nachos, Greek salads, local beers and wine. We ship our ribs overnight, too! Call about private parties for lunch and dinner. Check out our new catering menu online today!

Jack Pirtle’s Chicken (8 Memphis Locations) • jackpirtleschicken.com

®

Founders, Jack and Ovra Pirtle Photo taken in 1957 at the original store on S. Bellevue

CELEBRATING 63 YEARS IN MEMPHIS. Jack Pirtle started serving fried chicken in Memphis in 1957, and from the beginning we’ve had something that sets us apart from chicken everywhere: Pirtle pride, and Memphis style. Jack Pirtle’s Fried Chicken was born in the city of Beale Street, barbecue and blues. It’s the town that gave the world Elvis Presley, who coincidentally purchased Graceland, just down the street from the original Jack Pirtle’s, the same year Jack opened his first restaurant at 1217 Bellevue. And it’s where soul music was created. People from all over the world come to Memphis for the music and the food, and we’re proud to have them here. But it’s the hometown folks we really aim to please, because we know that in Memphis, people know good food. From the start, they’ve loved the chicken at Jack Pirtle’s. Fine chicken, seasoned just right, and fried with pride by people who are proud to serve it. Fresh biscuits, hot from the oven; our signature country-fried steak sandwich; mashed potatoes, crinkle-cut fries or rice with our homemade chicken cracklin’ gravy, which is so popular people get gravy to-go even when they’re doing the cooking themselves. You’ve heard Southerners talk about gravy so good you could drink it by the glass? Well, they must’ve been to Jack Pirtle’s, where we really do sell gravy by the cup. Tour buses welcome! • For Good Ole’ Southern Style Catering, call 901.372.9897 Contact us with your favorite Jack Pirtle’s Chicken story at customer2jackpirtles@gmail.com

®

Keeping the tradition going today! Founders only son and wife, Cordell and Tawanda Pirtle

Dine In/Drive-Thru restaurant locations: 3571 Lamar Ave. • 2520 Mt. Moriah Rd. Drive-Thru Only restaurant locations: 811 S. Highland • 1370 Poplar Ave. • 1217 S. Bellevue Blvd. • 4349 Elvis Presley Blvd. • 2484 Jackson Ave. • 890 Thomas St

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Custom catering.

Nourishment on the go.

Our greatest asset is your imagination

Impress Your Group — Satisfy Your Budget

CORPORATE RECEPTIONS WEDDINGS KOSHER EVENTS COCKTAIL GATHERINGS

CATERING PACKAGES GRAB & GO BOXED MEALS

event@paradoxcuisine.com | 901-619-1196 | ParadoxCuisine.com

Who will be named

2020 FIVE STAR WEALTH MANAGERS Find out in a special section of the November issue Go to fivestarprofessional.com/wmconsumerfeedback to share your opinion

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THE MEMPHIS DINING GUIDE M A Curated Guide to Eating Out

FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, X, $-$$ THE GRAY CANARY—The sixth restaurant from chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, offering small plates and entrees cooked on an open flame. Oysters, octopus, and hearty steaks are among the menu options at this eatery in Old Dominick Distillery. Closed Mon. 301 S. Front. 4666324. D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ GRECIAN GOURMET TAVERNA—Serves traditional favorites like spanakopita, pastitso, moussaka, and hand-rolled dolmathes, as well as lamb sliders and pita nachos. Closed Mon. 412 S. Main. 249-6626. L, D, X, $ GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. Front. 527-4877; 215 S. Center St. (Collierville). 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 7672323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, X, MRA, $ pasta, and several Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The HAPPY MEXICAN—Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimiPeabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$$ changas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second. CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester. set around silos, features reimagined down-home classics, 751-5353. L, D, X, $ including fried green tomatoes with HU. DINER—An extension of DINING SYMBOLS smoked catfish, a buttermilk fried Hu. Hotel, diner serves such dishes as chicken sandwich, burgers, and more. country-fried cauliflower, cornflake-fried B — breakfast Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina. chicken, and octopus and grits. 3 S. Main. 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$ L — lunch 333-1224. L, D, X, $-$$ CATHERINE & D — dinner HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar with MARY’S—A variety of pasSB — Sunday brunch superb city views serves toasts with a tas, grilled quail, pâté, razor WB — weekend brunch variety of toppings including beef tartare clams, and monkfish are among the X — wheelchair accessible with cured egg, cognac, and capers dishes served at this Italian restaurant in or riced cauliflower with yellow curry, MRA — member, Memphis the Chisca. 272 S. Main. 254-8600. D, SB, currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish Restaurant Association X, MRA, $-$$$ tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 $ — under $15 per person without CHEF TAM’S Madison. 333-1229. D, $ UNDERGROUND CAFE—Serves drinks or desserts HUEY’S—This family-friendly Southern staples with a Cajun twist. $$ — under $25 restaurant offers 13 different Menu items include totchoes, jerk $$$ — $26-$50 burgers, a variety of sandwiches, wings, fried chicken, and “muddy” mac $$$$ — over $50 and delicious soups and salads. 1927 and cheese. Closed Sun. and Mon. 668 Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Union Ave. 207-6182. L, D, $ Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-3885; 77 S. Second. 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary French (Collierville). 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-349cuisine presented in a luxurious atmosphere with a 7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 seasonal menu focused on local/regional cuisine. The Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. crown jewel of The Peabody for 35 years. Afternoon tea served (Millington). 873-5025. L, D, X, MRA, $ Wed.-Sat., 1-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE—Flaky, Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, X, MRA, $$$$ baked breakfast goodness every day with fresh pastries, COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandsandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. 477 S. Main St., wiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade 701-7577. B, L, X, $ banana pudding. Closed Mon. 745 N. Parkway and ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served Manassas. 527-9158. L, D, $ here; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, along DIRTY CROW INN—Serving elevated bar food, including with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, poutine fries, fried catfish, and the Chicken Debris, a sandwich X, MRA, $$-$$$ with smoked chicken, melted cheddar, and gravy. 855 KOOKY CANUCK—Offers prime rib, catfish, and burgers, Kentucky. 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $ including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also late-night menu. 87 S. EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/Southern fusion cuisine Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 1-800-2453 L, D, includes such dishes as Kingston stew fish, Rasta Pasta, and X, MRA, $-$$$ jerk rib-eye. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 THE LITTLE TEA SHOP—Downtown institution Madison. 748-5422. L, D, X, $ serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf FAM—Casual Asian restaurant serves sushi rice bowls, noodle and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra, and tomabowls, sushi rolls, and spring rolls. Closed Sun. 149 Madison; 521 toes. Closed Sat.-Sun. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, X, $ S. Highland. 701-6666. L, D, X, $ LOCAL—Entrees with a focus on locally sourced products include FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Southern cuisine with lobster mac-and-cheese and ribeye patty melt; menu differs by low-country, Creole, and Delta influences, using location. 95 S. Main. 473-9573; 2126 Madison. 725-1845. L, D, WB, regional fresh seafood, local beef, and locally grown X, $-$$ foods. Entrees include shrimp and grits. Closed Sun. and Mon. A LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian downtown staple at Brinkley Plaza, 80 Monroe, Suite L1. 523fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork 0877. L (Fri. only), D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. FERRARO’S PIZZERIA & PUB—Rigatoni and Carolina. 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, $-$$ tortellini are among the pasta entrees here, along with pizzas THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and (whole or by the slice) with a variety of toppings. 111 Jackson. Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined 522-2033. L, D, X, $ chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, X, FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR— $-$$$ Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Serving a limited as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with menu of breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include Citrus appropriate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

emphis magazine offers this curated restaurant listing as a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, this directory does not list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include the magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in Memphis, a group that is updated every August. Establishments open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” This guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise in Memphis magazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood of their original location. Suggestions from readers are welcome; please contact us at dining@memphismagazine.com. editor’s note: As Memphis continues to navigate COVID-19, some restaurants are open for socially distanced dine-in, while others are focusing on takeout and delivery. Please call ahead to confirm hours, adjusted menus, and available services.

CENTER CITY 117 PRIME—Restaurateurs Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp team up with Chef Ryan Trimm to recreate the traditional American steakhouse. Serving oysters on the half shell and a variety of surf and turf options. 117 Union. 433-9851. L, D, WB, X, $-$$$ 3RD & COURT—The latest from Ryan Trimm and Across the Board Hospitality is a retro diner with an upscale twist. Includes a three-meat meatloaf and pound cake French toast. 24 N. B.B. King. 290-8484. B, L, D, X, WB, $-$$ ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper. 725-7437. L, D, X, $-$$ THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, MRA, $ AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime downtown favorite specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ BEDROCK EATS & SWEETS—Memphis’ only Paleocentric restaurant offering such dishes as pot roast, waffles, enchiladas, chicken salad, omelets, and more. Closed for dinner Sun. 327 S. Main. 409-6433. B, L, D, X, $-$$ BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ BISHOP—Ticer and Hudman’s newest venture at the Central Station Hotel features upscale dishes in a French brasserie style. 545 S. Main St., 524-5247. L, D, X, $$-$$$ BLEU—This eclectic restaurant features American food with global influences and local ingredients. Among the specialties are a 14-oz. bone-in rib-eye and several seafood dishes. 221 S. Third, in the Westin Memphis Beale St. Hotel. 334-5950. B, L, D, WB, X, MRA, $$-$$$ BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI LOUNGE— Serves Japanese fusion cuisine featuring seafood and steak, with seasonally changing menu; also a sushi bar. 135 S. Main. 528-1010. L, D, X, $-$$ BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$ CAFE KEOUGH—European-style cafe serving quiche, paninis, salads, and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, L, D, X, $ CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi),

We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M / F O O D (This guide, compiled by our editors, includes editorial picks and advertisers.)

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 THE MAJESTIC GRILLE—Housed in a former silent-picture house, features aged steaks, fresh seafood, and such specialties as roasted chicken and grilled pork tenderloin; offers a pre-theatre menu and classic cocktails. Wellstocked bar. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only), X, MRA, $$-$$$ MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-8902467; 88 Union. 527-5337; 3165 Forest Hill-Irene (Germantown). 249-5661. D, SB (Germantown), X, $$-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, X, MRA, $ THE NINE THAI & SUSHI—Serving authentic Thai dishes, including curries, as well as a variety of sushi rolls. Closed for lunch Sat. and Sun. 121 Union. 208-8347. L, D, X, $-$$ PAULETTE’S—Presents fine dining with a Continental flair, including such entrees as filet Paulette with butter cream sauce and crabmeat and spinach crepes; also changing daily specials and great views. River Inn. 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3300. B, L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ PEARL’S OYSTER HOUSE—Downtown eatery serving seafood, including oysters, crawfish, and stuffed butterfly shrimp, as well as beef, chicken, and pasta dishes. 299 S. Main. 522-9070; 8106 Cordova Center Dr. (Cordova). 425-4797. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ PONTOTOC LOUNGE—Upscale restaurant and jazz bar serves such starters as alligator filet fritters; entrees include Mississippi pot roast with jalapeño cornbread and tagliatelle with braised beef. 314 S. Main. 207-7576. D, X, $-$$ PUCK FOOD HALL—Food hall featuring a variety of vendors serving everything from bagels and beer to comfort food and healthy cuisine. 409 S. Main. 341-3838. $-$$ REGINA’S—New Orleans-inspired eatery offering po’boys, Cajun nachos topped with crawfish tails, catfish platters, oysters, and more. Closed Mon. 60 N. Main. 730-0384. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, X, $-$$ RIZZO’S DINER—Chorizo meatloaf, lobster pronto puff, and lamb belly tacos are menu items at this upscale diner. Michael Patrick is among the city’s best chefs. 492 S. Main. 304-6985. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D, X, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SLEEP OUT LOUIE’S—Oyster bar with such specialties as char-grilled Roquefort oysters and gulf oysters on the half shell with Prosecco mignonette; also serves flatbread pizzas and a variety of sandwiches. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 707-7180. L, D, X, $ SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main. 249-2194. L, D, X, $ SPINDINI—Italian fusion cuisine with such entrees as woodfired pizzas, Gorgonzola-stuffed filet, and fresh seafood; large domestic whiskey selection. 383 S. Main. 578-2767. D, X, $$-$$$ SUNRISE MEMPHIS—From owners of Sweet Grass and Central BBQ. Serves breakfast all day, including house-made biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters. 670 Jefferson. 552-3144. B, L, X, MRA, $ TERRACE—Creative American and Continental cuisine includes such dishes as filet mignon, beef or lamb sliders, chicken satay, and mushroom pizzetta. Rooftop, River Inn of Harbor Town, 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3366. D, X, MRA, $$

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TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103. 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, SB, X, $$-$$$ UNCLE BUCK’S FISHBOWL & GRILL—Burgers, pizza, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, Bass Pro Drive, 291-8200. B, L, D, X, $-$$ THE VAULT—Oysters, shrimp beignets, flatbreads, stuffed cornish hen, and Smash Burger featured on “Late Nite Eats” are among the dishes offered at this Creole/Italian fusion eatery. 124 G.E. Patterson. 591-8000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ WESTY’S—Extensive menu includes a variety of wild rice dishes, sandwiches, plate lunches, and hot fudge pie. 346 N. Main. 543-3278.L, D, X, $

COLLIERVILLE CAFE EUROPE—From Italian chef Michele D’oto, the French, Spanish, and Italian fusion cuisine includes a variety of dishes like Rosette al Forno, fish ceviche, and sole meuniere. Closed Sun. 4610 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 571. 286-4199. L, D, X, $$-$$$$ CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett St. 861-1999. L, D, X, $-$$ CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a wood-fired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1. 457-7457. L, D, X, $ COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee Rd. 979-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ DAVID GRISANTI’S—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional family recipes, like the Elfo Special, shrimp sauteed in garlic and butter, tossed with white button mushrooms and white pepper, and served over vermicelli with ParmigianoReggiano. Closed Sun. 684 W. Poplar (Sheffield Antiques Mall). 861-1777. L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, $-$$$ EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River, 853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd. 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 755-1447; 1492 Union. 274-4264; 11615 Airline Rd. (Arlington). 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross Rd. (Olive Branch). 662890-3337; 8834 Hwy. 51 N. (Millington). 872-3220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 417-6026. L, D, X, $ EMERALD THAI RESTAURANT—Spicy shrimp, pad khing, lemongrass chicken, and several noodle, rice, and vegetarian dishes are offered at this family restaurant. Closed Sunday. 8950 Highway 64 (Lakeland, TN). 384-0540. L, D, X, $-$$ FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing. 850-1637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300. L, D, X, $-$$$ JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine with such entrees as pork tenderloin, several seafood specialties, and hand-cut charcoal-grilled steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee. 861-5000. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee. 850-5288; 2149 Young. 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood. 609-8680. L, D, X, $-$$
 OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee. 861-4309; 3402 Poplar. 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch). 662-8909312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 425-4901. L, D, X, $-$$$ RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southern-inspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad, spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Monday. 120 E. Mulberry. 286-4575. L, D, SB, X, $-$$ STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A

specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing. 854-3399. L, D, X, $-$$ ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main. 457-7526. L, D, X, $

CORDOVA BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, X, $-$$ THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, X, $$-$$$ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, Chinese, to Filipino, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101. 266-9000. D, X, $$-$$$ GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway #104. 753-5488. L, D, $-$$ KING JERRY LAWLER’S MEMPHIS BBQ COMPANY—Offers a variety of barbecue dishes, including brisket, ribs, nachos topped with smoked pork, and a selection of barbecue “Slamwiches.” 465 N. Germantown Pkwy. #116. 509-2360. L, D, X, $ JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q—Serves barbecued pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, and fish, along with other homemade Southern specialties. 2359 N. Germantown Pkwy. 388-0998. L, D, X, $-$$ EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, X, $ MISTER B’S—Features New Orleans-style seafood and steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. and Mon. 6655 Poplar #107. 751-5262. L, D, X, $-$$$ PEI WEI ASIAN DINER—Serves a variety of Pan-Asian cuisine, including Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai. Noodle and rice bowls are specialties; a small plates menu also offered. 2257 N. Germantown Pkwy. 382-1822. L, D, X, $-$$ SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. 384-4122. L, D, X, $-$$ TANNOOR GRILL—Brazilian-style steakhouse with skewers served tableside, along with Middle Eastern specialties; vegetarian options also available. 830 N. Germantown Pkwy. 443-5222. L, D, X, $-$$$

EAST MEMPHIS

(INCLUDES POPLAR/ I-240) ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avante-garde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins. 818-2273. L, D, X, $$-$$$ AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove. 433-9345. L, D, X, $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN— Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Cl. 347-3569. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 6063 Park Ave. 729-7020; 65 S. Highland. 623-7122. B, L, WB, X, $ BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven

Cl. 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748. L, D, X, $-$$ BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd. 767-8980. L, D, X, $$-$$$ BLUE PLATE CAFÉ—For breakfast, the café’s serves old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes (it’s a secret recipe!), country ham and eggs, and waffles with fresh strawberries and cream. For lunch, the café specializes in country cooking. 5469 Poplar. 761-9696; 113 S. Court. 523-2050. B, L, X, $ BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, X, $-$$$ BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer. 324-7494. B, L, X, $ BUCKLEY’S FINE FILET GRILL—Specializes in steaks, seafood, and pasta. (Lunchbox serves entree salads, burgers, and more.) 5355 Poplar. 683-4538; 919 S. Yates (Buckley’s Lunchbox), 682-0570. L (Yates only, M-F), D, X, $-$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, X, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar. 725-8557 ; 7609 Poplar Pike (Germantown). 4255908; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, X, $-$$ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 565 Erin Dr., Erin Way Shopping Center. 205-2500. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin. 729-7687. B, L, D, X, $ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville). 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662893-3663. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ ERLING JENSEN—For over 20 years, has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, big game entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates. 763-3700. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wetaged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar. 761-6200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE—Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-and-sour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Monday. 6685 Quince. 753-9898. L, D, X, $-$$ FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 1769 N. Germantown Pkwy. 7586500. L, D, X, $ FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sunday. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden. 766-9900. L, X, $ FRANK GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, filet mignon, and daily lunch specials. Closed for lunch Sunday. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove. 761-9462. L, D, X, $-$$$ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a ”voodoo menu”; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. A U G U S T 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 121

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Mendenhall. 682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Monday. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, X, $-$$ HOUSTON’S—Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and Chicago-style spinach dip. Farmous for first-class service. 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, X $-$$$ INTERIM—Offers American-seasonal cuisine with emphasis on local foods and fresh fish; daily chef specials. Closed for lunch Sat. 5040 Sanderlin, Suite 105. 818-0821. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ LA BAGUETTE—An almond croissant and chicken salad are among specialties at this French-style bistro. Closed for dinner Sun. 3088 Poplar. 458-0900. B, L, D (closes at 7), X, MRA, $ LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sunday. 4002 Park Ave. 458-9264; 5689 Quince. 800-2873. L, D, X, $ LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi. Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (Novel). 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ LISA’S LUNCHBOX—Serving bagels, sandwiches, salads, and wraps. 5885 Ridgeway Center Pkwy. 767-6465; 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 1200; 730-0064; 6070 Poplar. 2335875; 50 N. Front. 574-0468. B, L, $ LOST PIZZA—Offering pizzas (with dough made from scratch), pasta, salads, sandwiches, tamales, and more. 2855 Poplar. 572-1803; 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-892-8684. L, D, X, $-$$ LYNCHBURG LEGENDS—This restaurant with a Jack Daniels’ theme and Southern cuisine serves such entrees as Bourbon Street salmon, buttermilk-fried chicken, and grilled steak and wild mushroom salad. DoubleTree Hotel, 5069 Sanderlin. 969-7777. B, L, D, X, $-$$$ MAGNOLIA & MAY—The family behind Grove Grill cooks up Southern-inspired casual dining at this country brasserie, with popular menu items like peach gazpacho and low country shrimp n’ grits. 718 Mt. Moriah Rd. 676-8100. D, $$-$$$. MAHOGANY MEMPHIS—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 3092 Poplar, Suite 11. 623-7977. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Veal Saltimbocca with angel-hair pasta and white wine sauce is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 Brookhaven Cl. 682-1660. D, X, $-$$
 DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-890-7611. L, D, X, $ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, X, $-$$ MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 5138 Park Ave. 562-1211; 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown). 907-0243. L, D, X, $-$$ MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, X, MRA, $ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, X, $
 NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ NEW HUNAN—Chinese eatery with more than 80 entrees; also lunch/dinner buffets. 5052 Park. 766-1622. L, D, X, $ ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas,

Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd. 249-4227. L, D, X, $ ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar. 618-2955. L, D, X, $ OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sunday. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery). 761-5250. L, X, $ PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park. 682-2852. L, D, X, MRA, $ PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park. 458-0694. D, X, $-$$$ PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Centre. 818-3889. L, D, X, $-$$ PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 4581644. L, D, $ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven; wide choice of toppings; large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 221-8109. L, D, X, MRA, $ RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR— Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, X, $-$$ RIVER OAKS—Chef Jose Gutierrez’s French-style bistro serves seafood and steaks, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5871 Poplar Ave. 683-9305. L, D, X, $$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar #122. 850-0191. D, X, $-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE—Offers prime steaks cut and aged in-house, as well as lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood, including lobster. 6120 Poplar. 761-0055. D, X, $$$-$$$$ SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, X, $-$$ SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar. 682-9952. L, D, X, $$-$$$ STAKS—Offering pancakes, including birthday cake and lemon ricotta. Menu includes other breakfast items such as beignets and French toast, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch. 4615 Poplar. 509-2367; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951. B, L, WB, X, $ SUSHI JIMMI—This food truck turned restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, fusion dishes — such as kimchi fries — and sushi burritos. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Mon. 2895 Poplar. 729-6985. L, D, X, $ SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown). 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 779-3499. L, D, X, $ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, X, $ TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527; 4183 Summer.

324-4325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 323-9865; 6130 Macon. 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, X, $ VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, X, $-$$ WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall. 7630676. L, D, X, $-$$ WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105. 421-6399. L, D, X, $-$$ WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, and vegetable plates are specialties; meal includes drink and dessert. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, X, $ ZAKA BOWL—This vegan-friendly restaurant serves buildyour-own vegetable bowls featuring ingredients such as agave Brussels sprouts and roasted beets. Also serves tuna poke and herbed chicken bowls. 575 Erin. 509-3105. L, D, $

GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herb-crusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, X, $-$$$ FOREST HILL GRILL—A variety of standard pub fare and a selection of mac-and-cheese dishes are featured on the menu. Specialties include Chicken Newport and a barbecue salmon BLT. 9102 Poplar Pike. 624-6001. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs. 2290 S. Germantown Rd. S. 754-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ KOHESIAN SOKO STYLE EATERY—KoreanAmerican eatery serves up fusion-style dishes like bibimbap burgers or gochujang marinated loaded spicy pork nachos. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. 308-0223. L, D, X, $$ LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sunday. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, X, $-$$ MISTER B’S—Features New Orleans-style seafood and steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. and Mon. 6655 Poplar #107. 751-5262. L, D, X, $-$$$ MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117. 755-1471. L, D, X, $$-$$$ NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar #12. 755-1117. L, D, X, $ PETRA CAFÉ—Serves Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern sandwiches, gyros, and entrees. Hours vary; call. 6641 Poplar. 754-4440; 547 S. Highland. 323-3050. L, D, X, $-$$ PIMENTO’S KITCHEN + MARKET—Fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and plenty of pimento cheese at this family-owned restaurant. 6540 Poplar Ave. 602-5488 [Collierville: 3751 S. Houston Levee. 453-6283]. L, D, X, $ RAW GIRLS / CITY & STATE POP-UP— Hannah and Amy Pickle offer plant-based dishes and cold-pressed juices alongside Lisa and Luis Toro’s coffee bar. Hours vary. 2055 W. Germantown. L, X, $ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, X $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar #6. 779-2008. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$

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ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. 756-9697. L, D, X, $-$$ RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR—Serves gourmet pizzas, calzones, and pasta, including lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, scampi, and more. 9087 Poplar, Suite 111. 755-0092. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. 758-8181; 4840 Poplar. 572-1002. L, D, X, $-$$ SOUTHERN SOCIAL—Shrimp and grits, stuffed quail, and Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken are among the dishes served at this upscale Southern establishment. 2285 S. Germantown Rd. 754-5555. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West St. 757-2191. B, L, D (Mon.-Fri.), X, $ WOLF RIVER BRISKET CO.—From the owners of Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza, highlights include house-smoked meats: prime beef brisket, chicken, and salmon. Closed Sun. 9947 Wolf River Boulevard, Suite 101. 316-5590. L, D, X, $-$

MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER) ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar. 321-0082. L, D, X, $-$$ ALCHEMY—Southern fusion, locally grown cuisine features small and large plates; among the offerings are pan-seared hanger steak, quail, and lamb chops; also handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, X, $-$$ ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue #280. 507-8030. D, X, $ BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—This eatery dishes up Spanish-style tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison. 274-0100; 6450 Poplar, 410-8909. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ BACK DO / MI YARD—A revamped patio space behind The Beauty Shop features rotisserie meats and fishes via Brazilian-style outdoor grill. Dinner Wednesday-Saturday, weather permitting. 966 S. Cooper, 2727111. D, X, $$ BAR DKDC—Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. 964 S. Cooper. 272-0830. D, X, MRA, $ BAR KEOUGH—It’s old school eats and cocktails at the new Cooper-Young neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, X, $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna; also pulled pork shoulder, Texas toast barbecue sandwich, chicken sandwich, and salads. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 22 S. Cooper. 722-2244. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BARKSDALE RESTAURANT—Old-school diner serving breakfast and Southern plate lunches. 237 S. Cooper. 722-2193. B, L, D, X, $ BAYOU BAR & GRILL—New Orleans fare at this Overton Square eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp dishes, red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison. 278-8626. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecan-crusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BELLY ACRES—At this festive Overton Square eatery, milkshakes, floats, and burgers rule. Burgers are updated with contemporary toppings like grilled leeks, braised tomatoes, and sourdough or brioche buns. 2102 Trimble Pl. 529-7017. L, D, X, $ BHAN THAI—Authentic Thai cuisine includes curries, pad Thai noodles, and vegetarian dishes, as well as seafood, pork, and duck entrees. Closed for lunch

Sat.-Sun. and all day Mon. 1324 Peabody. 272-1538. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ BLUE NILE ETHIOPIAN—Kabobs, flavorful chicken and lamb stew, and injera (flatbread) are traditional items on the menu, along with vegetarian options. 1788 Madison. 474-7214. L, D, X, $-$$ BOSCOS—Tennessee’s first craft brewery serves a variety of freshly brewed beers as well as wood-fired oven pizzas, pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. 2120 Madison. 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), X, MRA, $-$$ BOUNTY ON BROAD—Offering family-style dining, Bounty serves small plates and family-sized platters, with such specialties as chicken fried quail and braised pork shank. 2519 Broad. 410-8131. L (Sat. and Sun.), D (Mon.-Sat.), SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad. 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall. 207-1546. L, D, X, $-$$ CAFE 1912—French/American bistro owned by culinary pioneer Glenn Hays serving such seafood entrees as seared sea scallops with charred cauliflower purée and chorizo cumin sauce; also crepes, salads, and onion soup gratinée. 243 S. Cooper. 722-2700. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ CAFE BROOKS BY CITY & STATE—Serving grab-and-go pastries, as well as lunch items. Menu includes soups, salads, and sandwiches, such as the Modern Reuben and Grown-Up Grilled Cheese. 1934 Poplar (Memphis Brooks Museum of Art). 544-6200. B, L, X, $ CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean. 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square. 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $ CAFE OLÉ—This eatery specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine; one specialty is the build-your-own quesadilla. 959 S. Cooper. 343-0103. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in a tea room inside the antiques shop. Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. L, X, $ CAFE SOCIETY—With Belgian and classic French influences, serves Wagyu beef, chicken, and seafood dishes, including bacon-wrapped shrimp, along with daily specials and vegetarian entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 212 N. Evergreen. 722-2177. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ CARITAS CAFE—Community deli serves Southerninspired gourmet-style farm-to-table food using locally grown produce and ingredients. Open for lunch MonSat. Closed Sunday. 2509 Harvard Ave. 327-5246. L, X, $ CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper. 274-5151. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central Ave. 272-9377; 4375 Summer Ave. 7674672; 147 E. Butler. 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar. 417-7962. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ THE COVE—Nautical-themed restaurant and bar serving oysters, pizzas, and more. The Stoner Pie, with tamales and fritos, is a popular dish. 2559 Broad. 730-0719. L, D, $ THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, X, $ THE DOGHOUZZ—It’s both bark and bite at the Doghouzz, which pairs a variety of gourmet hot dogs alongside local craft beer and one of the city’s most extensive whiskey selections. Open for lunch, dinner, and latenight. Closed Sunday. 1349 Autumn Ave. 207-7770. L, D, X, $ ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops to housemade pastas and a grilled vegetable plate; also a Saturday brunch. Closed Sun.-Mon. 1585 Overton Park. 410-8200. L, D, X, $-$$ FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue #175. 800-1851. L, D, X, $

FINO’S ITALIAN DELI & CATERING—The newly revived Fino’s offers the old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO. B, L, D, X, $ FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, X, $-$$ GLOBAL CAFE—This international food hall hosts three immigrant/refugee food entrepreneurs serving Venezuelan, Sudanese, and Syrian cuisines. Samosas, shawarma, and kabobs are among the menu items. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue #157. L, D, X, MRA, $ GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison. 728-5111. L, D, X, $-$$ GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to a pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar. 244-7904. L, D, X, $-$$ HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad. 596 S. Cooper. 424-5900. L, D, X, $ HM DESSERT LOUNGE—Serving cake, pie, and other desserts, as well as a selection of savory dishes, including meatloaf and mashed potato “cupcakes.” Closed Monday. 1586 Madison. 290-2099. L, D, X, $ IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young. 654-3455. L, D, WB, X, $ INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, X, $-$$ INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110. 509-8640. B, L, D, X, $ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison. 207-5097. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ LBOE—Gourmet burger joint serves locally sourced ground beef burgers, with options like the Mac-N-Cheese Burger and Caprese. Black bean and turkey patties available. 2021 Madison. 725-0770. L, D, X, $ THE LIQUOR STORE—Renovated liquor store turned diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. Closed for dinner Sun.-Mon. 2655 Broad. 405-5477. B, L, D, X, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes. 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, X, $-$$ LUCKY CAT RAMEN—Specializes in gourmet ramen bowls, with such ingredients as braised pork belly and housemade blackened garlic, made with rich broth. Bao, steamed buns filled with various meats and veggies, also grace the menu. Closed Sun. 2583 Broad. 208-8145. L, D, X, $-$$ MARDI GRAS MEMPHIS—Fast-casual establishment serving Cajun fare, including an etouffee-stuffed po’boy. Closed Mon.-Tues. 496 N. Watkins. 530-6767. L, D, X, $-$$ MAXIMO’S ON BROAD—Serving a tapas menu that features creative fusion cuisine; entrees include veggie paella and fish of the day. Closed Mon. 2617 Broad Ave. 452-1111. D, SB, X, $-$$ MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison. 726-5343; 5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-536-1364. L, D, X, $-$$ MIDPOINTE FROM EDGE ALLEY—Edge Alley’s sister cafe at the Ballet Memphis headquarters focuses on freshness for its breakfast, lunch, and happy hour tapas. Closed Sunday-Monday. 2144 Madison Ave. 4252605. B, L, X, $ MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ NEXT DOOR AMERICAN EATERY—Serves dishes sourced from American farms. Menu features chorizo bacon dates, spicy gulf shrimp, and dry-aged beef burgers. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 165. 779-1512. L, D, X, $ ONIX RESTAURANT—Serves seafood dishes, including barbecued shrimp and pecan-crusted trout, and a variety of

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salads and sandwiches. Closed Sun. 1680 Madison. 552-4609. L, D, X, $-$$ PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-toearth as it gets. 1762 Lamar. 272-1523. L, D, $-$$ PIZZERIA TRASIMENO—Small pizzas baked in wood-fired clay ovens along with a selection of small salads. Menu is soon to include desserts, local beer on tap, and Umbrian wine. 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 181. 308-1113. L, D. $ PHO BINH—Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Cantonese specialties include lemon tofu and spring rolls. Closed Sunday. 1615 Madison. 276-0006. L, D, $ RAILGARTEN—Located in a former rail station space, this eatery offers breakfast items, a variety of salads and sandwiches, and such entrees as short rib mac-and-cheese and fish tacos. Also serves shakes, malts, floats, and cream sodas. 2166 Central. 231-5043. B, L, D, $-$$ RED FISH ASIAN BISTRO—In the former Nineteenth Century Club building, serves sushi, teriyaki, and hibachi. Specialties include yuzu filet mignon and Chilean sea bass. 1433 Union. 454-3926; 9915 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 729-7581; 6518 Goodman (Olive Branch). 662-874-5254. L, D, X, $-$$$ RESTAURANT IRIS—French Creole-inspired classics, such as Gulf shrimp and rice grits congee served with lap chong sausage and boiled peanuts, are served at this newly remodeled restaurant owned by Chef Kelly English, a Food and Wine “Top Ten.” 2146 Monroe. 590-2828. D, X, $$-$$$ ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR—Serves ramen noodle bowls and Yakitori skewers as well as rice and noodle dishes. 2116 Madison. 410-8290. L, D, X, $ SABROSURA—Serves Mexican and Cuban fare, including arroz tapada de pollo and steak Mexican. Closed Sun. 782 Washington. 421-8180. L, D, X, $-$$ SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison Ave. 922-5202. L, D, X, $$ SAUCY CHICKEN—Specializes in antibiotic-free chicken dishes with locally sourced ingredients, with such items as hot wings and the Crosstown Chicken Sandwich, and a variety of house-made dipping sauces; also, seafood, salads, and daily specials. 1350 Concourse, Suite 137. 203-3838. L, D (Mon.-Fri.), $ THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his newest eatery; serves a variety of po’boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, andouille shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe. 590-2829. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees. Poplar/Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine. Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere. 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar. 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett). 377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, X, $-$$$ STONE SOUP CAFE—Cooper-Young eatery serving soups, salads, quiche, meat-and-two specials; and daily specials such as Italian roast beef. Closed Monday. 993 S. Cooper. 922-5314. B, L, SB, X, $ SOUL FISH CAFE—Serving Southern-style soul food, tacos, and po’boys, including catfish, crawfish, oyster, shrimp, chicken, and smoked pork tenderloin. 862 S. Cooper. 725-0722; 3160 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown). 755-6988; 4720 Poplar. 590-0323. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ SWEET GRASS—Chef Ryan Trimm takes Southern cuisine to a new level. Low-country coastal cuisine includes such specialties as shrimp and grits. Closed Mon. Restaurant’s “sister,” Sweet Grass Next Door, open nightly, serves lunch Sat.-Sun. 937 S. Cooper. 278-0278. D, SB, X, $-$$$ TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta Maker Josh Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner TuesdaySaturday. Pizza only menu after 9pm. 1761 Madison. 410-8866. D, X, $-$$

TAKASHI BISTRO—Fusion restaurant with an open kitchen that lets customers watch chefs prepare a variety of Japanese and Thai cuisine. 1680 Union Ave. Ste. 109. 800-2936. L, D, $-$$. TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu. Chef Ben Smith is a Cooper-Young pioneer. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison. 726-5004. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES

PARKWAY VILLAGE, FOX MEADOWS, SOUTH MEMPHIS, WINCHESTER, AND WHITEHAVEN)

COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 1063 S. Parkway E. 948-7652; 2850 Appling Rd. (Bartlett). 383-1122. L, D, X, $-$$ CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross Rd. 207-6051. L, D, $ DELTA’S KITCHEN—The premier restaurant at The Guest House at Graceland serves Elvis-inspired dishes — like Nutella and Peanut Butter Crepes for breakfast — and upscale Southern cuisine — including lamb chops and shrimp and grits — for dinner. 3600 Elvis Presley Blvd. 443-3000. B, D, X, $-$$$ DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$ THE FOUR WAY—Legendary soul-food establishment dishing up such entrees as fried and baked catfish, chicken, and turkey and dressing, along with a host of vegetables and desserts. Around the corner from the legendary Stax Studio. Closed Monday. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D, $ HERNANDO’S HIDEAWAY—Hernando’s Hideaway–No one cares how late it gets; not at Hernando’s Hideaway. Live music, killer happy hour, and plenty of bar fare at this South Memphis hang. 3210 Old Hernando Rd. 917-982-1829. L, D, $ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third. 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline Rd. (Southaven). 662-393-5699. L, D, X, $-$$ LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza. 360-1963. L, X, $-$$ MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagne, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd. 332-4159. D, X, MRA, $-$$ UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch. 332-2367. L, D, X, MRA, $

SUMMER/BERCLAIR/ RALEIGH/BARTLETT ASIAN PALACE—Chinese eatery serves seafood, vegetarian items, dim sum, and more. 5266 Summer Ave. 766-0831. L, D, X, $-$$ ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer. 761-9898. B, L, D, X, $ EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 6250 Stage Rd. 382-3433; 2935 Austin Peay. 388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway. 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd. (Germantown). 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline Rd. 662-3424544 (check online for additional locations). L, D, X, MRA, $ GRIDLEY’S—Offers barbecued ribs, shrimp, pork plate, chicken, and hot tamales; also daily lunch specials. Closed Tues. 6842 Stage Rd. 377-8055. L, D, X, $-$$

LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bona-fide Memphis institution. 4818 Summer. 685-6857; 5848 Winchester. 365-4992. L, D, $ LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer. 682-1151. D, X, $ MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/nightly specials. A Memphis landmark since the Knickerbocker closed. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins. 761-9321. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer. 454-0320. D, X, $$ PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer. 323-4819. L, D, X, $-$$ QUEEN OF SHEBA—Featuring Middle Eastern favorites and Yemeni dishes such as lamb haneeth and saltah. 4792 Summer. 207-4174. L, D, $ SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun.-Mon. 5689 Stage Rd. 377-2484. D, X, $-$$

UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)

A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center. 452-4477. L, D, X, $-$$$ THE BLUFF—New Orleans-inspired menu includes alligator bites, nachos topped with crawfish and andouille, gumbo, po’boys, and fried seafood platters. 535 S. Highland. 454-7771. L, D, X, $-$$ BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker. 324-0144. B, X, $ CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, char-broiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland #120. 249-3533. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ DERAE RESTAURANT—Ethiopian and Mediterranean fare includes fuul, or fava beans in spices and yogurt, goat meat and rice, and garlic chicken over basmati rice with cilantro chutney; also salmon and tilapia. Closed Monday. 923 S. Highland. 5523992. B, L, D, $-$$ EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown). 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64. 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza). 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 6249358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-5770. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ JOES’ ON HIGHLAND—Specializes in fried chicken and comfort sides such as warm okra/green tomato salad and turnip greens. Entrees include salmon patties and chicken-fried steak. Closed Mon. 262 S. Highland. 337-7003. L, D, X, $ MEDALLION—Offers steaks, seafood, chicken, and pasta entrees. Closed for dinner Sunday. 3700 Central, Holiday Inn (Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality). 678-1030. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ OPEN FLAME—This authentic Persian and Mediterranean eatery specializes in shish kebabs as well as kosher and halal fare. 3445 Poplar. 207-4995. L, D, X, $

OUT-OF-TOWN BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Hwy 70 (Mason, TN). 901-294-3400. L, D, $-$$ CATFISH BLUES—Serving Delta-raised catfish and Cajunand Southern-inspired dishes, including gumbo and fried green tomatoes. 210 E. Commerce (Hernando, MS). 662-298-3814. L, D, $

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CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sunday. 152 Courthouse Square (Oxford, MS). 662-232-8080. L, D, SB, X, $$-$$$ COMO STEAKHOUSE—Steaks cooked on a hickory charcoal grill are a specialty here. Upstairs is an oyster bar. Closed Sun. 203 Main St. (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, X, $-$$$ LONG ROAD CIDER CO.—Specializes in hard apple ciders made with traditional methods. Cafe-style entrees include black-eyed peas with cornbread and greens, chicken Gorgonzola pockets, cider-steamed sausage, and housemade ice creams. Closed Sun.-Wed. 9053 Barret Road. (Barretville, TN). 352-0962. D, X, $ MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials. Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN). 209-8525. L, D, X, $ MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. Breakfast menu features griddle cakes, and lunch offerings include hamburger steak and oyster po’ boys. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS). 628-3556. B, L, D, X, $-$$$ MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare CASINO TABLES BOURBON STREET STEAKHOUSE & GRILL AT SOUTHLAND CASINO RACING—1550 Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY /662-357-1225 FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip Blvd., Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711 JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 8213 ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket, along with such sides as mac-and-cheese, grits, and red beans. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-536-3762. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven, MS). 662-349-8788. L, D, X, $-$$$
 PANCHO’S—Serves up a variety of Mexican standards, including tacos, enchiladas, and mix-and-match platters; also lunch specials. 3600 E. Broadway (West Memphis, AR). 870-735-6466. 717 N. White Station. 685-5404. L, D, X, MRA, $ PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. (Millington, TN). 872-2455. L, D, X, $ RAVINE—Serves contemporary Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown foods and a menu that changes weekly. Closed Mon.-Tues. 53 Pea Ridge/County Rd. 321 (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, SB, X, $$-$$$ SAINT LEO’S—Offering sophisticated pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2017. 1101 Jackson (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, L, WB, $-$$ SNACKBAR—Billed as an intriguing mix of “French Bistro with North Mississippi Cafe.” Serving a confit duck Croque Monsieur, watermelon-cucumber chaat, pan-fried quail, plus a daily plate special and a raw bar. Chef Vishesh Bhatt was named as Best Chef South by the James Beard Foundation in 2019. 721 N. Lamar (Oxford, MS). 662-236-6363. D, $-$$$ WILSON CAFE—Serving elevated home-cooking, with such dishes as deviled eggs with cilantro and jalapeño, scampi and grits, and doughnut bread pudding. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR). 870-655-0222. L, D (Wed. through Sat. only), X, $-$$$

Since 1977

STILL RARE MEMPHIS

ORIGINAL

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LAST STAND

Blueprints for a Better Memphis

Insightful locals tell us what our city needs in order to thrive — for everyone.

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emphis is known around the world for our rich musical tradition, world-class institutions like the National Civil Rights Museum, and our prominent location overlooking America’s mightiest river. We are headquarters to multinational firms like FedEx and International Paper. First-rate colleges and universities, hospitals, and sports facilities choose Memphis for their home. All the ingredients are present for Memphis to add up to one of this country’s truly great cities. “What does Memphis need, going forward, in order to grow into the best version of itself?” That’s the question we posed to insightful community and faith leaders from all walks of life. Here’s how they responded. Think of these ideas as blueprints for what’s next. “Memphis needs three things: 1) Our city needs to approach building an equitable community using an effective three-sector approach — public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The investments made into private enterprise are fine, but an equal investment in the nonprofit infrastructure of the city is necessary. Nonprofits provide a large percentage of direct services to residents and the public sector needs to see these organizations as vital partners. 2) Memphis needs to re-imagine public transportation and implement something that meets the needs of the community. The idea that public transportation has to be delivered in 2020 the same way it was in 1970 is unreasonable. And 3) Leadership needs to be willing to take risks and question the status quo. (That can be hard if we ARE the status quo.) We need to be willing to train and mentor those bright lights that have the interest and

ability to receive the baton. We should not be afraid to usher in new ideas and new approaches to problem-solving. Particularly if the old approaches aren’t working.” — Terri Lee Freeman N AT I O N A L C I V I L R I G H T S M U S E U M

“My profession is that of storytelling. Stories help us make sense of our world and share that understanding with others. Today, we are living in a time when the stories told by Confederate statues are being challenged. We are living in a time when stories of empathy are being told by wearing a mask. In Memphis, we are living in a time when stories of Black struggle and pride are being borrowed and told through a voice that can’t authentically carry the tune Black folk have been singing. So, we need more Black voices telling Black stories. We need non-Black people to sincerely say, ‘I want to hear your story.’” — Ekundayo Bandele

“I want to build a Memphis that is truly for ALL of us. That means a Memphis where Black and Brown children have the same access to fresh food, transportation, safe and quality school buildings, a quality education, safe places to play, and minimal intersection with policing and incarceration. I also want a Memphis where instead of resisting when racism and other inequities are called out, we actually rise to the occasion and make change.” — Tami Sawyer SHELBY COUNTY COMMISSION

“Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination in 1968 froze Memphis and sent Downtown into nearly 50 years of stagnation — until just before the pandemic when we finally came out of it, after facing history and rebuilding this resilient city whose streets are paved with soul. What Memphis needs now is the empowerment of younger adult leaders in all sectors

— business, civic, faith, and community leadership. Young people have always been the prime catalysts for transformative change. Bakari Sellers reminds me that those a little younger than me — the thirty- and fortysomething Memphians — are not yet frozen in their formative years as we all eventually become. We need to elevate millennials because they are not really the leaders of tomorrow. They are the leaders of right now. Harnessing the best younger minds will transform the Memphis of today into the Memphis of tomorrow.” — Rabbi Micah Greenstein TEMPLE ISRAEL

“I would want to see a Memphis that has the history of Memphis music taught in all schools. A Memphis where our citizens are aware of and empowered by our legacy.” — Boo Mitchell R O YA L S T U D I O S

“Memphis needs the courage to set a standard, the confidence to reach for it, the commitment to point others to it, and the compassion to comfort those who fall short of it.” — Mick Wright SHELBY COUNTY COMMISSION

“Let’s get serious about poverty, and not just wringing our hands and spouting statistics, but to engage in real committed action. To do that we need to get honest about our history and be willing to examine the through-line connecting that history to people’s lives today. Of all places on Planet Earth, and in the shadow of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Memphis needs to be a drum major for economic and racial justice.” — Gayle S. Rose R O S E FA M I LY F O U N D AT I O N

“We Memphians should invest in encouraging and enabling our African-American population (most of us) to realize their full potential. We should work with the same creativity, intensity and sophistication that we used in discouraging them during the years of Jim Crow. Imagine the talent we will unleash!” — Henry Turley H E N R Y T U R L E Y C O M PA N Y

“Memphis needs to change this narrative of a city impoverished by plantation economics into a city of equity and prosperity for all, especially Brown and Black people.” — Dr. Stacy Spencer M E T R O P O L I TA N I N T E R FA I T H COALITION FOR ACTION A N D H O P E ( M I C A H )

H AT T I L O O T H E AT R E

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That means 93 longer days, 93 warmer nights and even more reasons to take on the open road. But these sun-filled months won’t last forever. So make the most of the season while it’s still here, knowing that no matter where you plan to go, there’s a BMW that will always make your summer journey one to remember. Take advantage of up to a $3,000 credit on select models now through August 31st. Contact a Client Advisor at Roadshow BMW or shop online at roadshowbmw.com. BMW. The Ultimate Driving Machine.® Roadshow BMW 405 N. Germantown Parkway Memphis Cordova, TN 38018 (901) 365-2584 roadshowbmw.com Must take delivery by August 31, 2020. Up to $3,000 credit applied against MSRP of new 2020 2020 BMW models when financing through BMW Financial Services NA, LLC. Available credits: $2,000 off 2020 2 Series Gran Coupe, $3,000 off 2020 X3 30i and 2020 X5 40i. Credit may be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated. Qualified rate lock applicants must take delivery within 60 days of initial lock. This offer is contingent upon credit approval, and not all customers will qualify for financing. Availability of finance credit is subject to dealer participation. Visit your authorized BMW Center for important details. ©2020 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

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SUMMER. STARTS. NOW.


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