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OUR 1822ND ISSUE 01.25.24 “And don’t think the garden loses its ecstasy in winter. It’s quiet, but the roots are down there riotous.” — Rumi

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CONTENTS

SHARA CLARK Editor-in-Chief SAMUEL X. CICCI Managing Editor JACKSON BAKER, BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN Senior Editors TOBY SELLS Associate Editor KAILYNN JOHNSON News Reporter CHRIS MCCOY Film and TV Editor ALEX GREENE Music Editor MICHAEL DONAHUE, JON W. SPARKS Staff Writers ABIGAIL MORICI Arts and Culture Editor BRYCE ASHBY, GENE GARD, EMILY GUENTHER, COCO JUNE, MICHAEL LAROSA, FRANK MURTAUGH, JOI TAYLOR Contributing Columnists SHARON BROWN, AIMEE STIEGEMEYER Grizzlies Reporters KENNETH NEILL Founding Publisher

We could all use a little light right now. Sunlight, for sure, after a week of frigid temps and dangerously low wind chills following the arctic blast that swept much of the nation. It’s Monday evening as I write this, and patches of snow still cover most of my yard. But the rain has come to wash it away and I’m hoping there’s no trace left by the time I turn this over to the printer on Tuesday. Good riddance.

By now, I assume we’re all weary of the precarious road conditions, the sound of dripping faucets (traded for the drip of melting icicles), and the inconveniences that came with precautionary power and water advisories. Like roots in the depths of winter, dormant, waiting for warmth and light. Spring can’t come soon enough.

In the meantime, the sun has much work to do, and I reckon we’re in for another wet — yet, thankfully, way warmer — week.

Aside from the weather, we’re always looking for bright spots. Amid the flurry of often negative news, throughout the year the Flyer highlights artists, musicians, chefs, filmmakers, innovators, and more who make Memphis the mighty city it is.

In this issue though, our annual 20<30 edition, we’ve sought to get to know some of the best and brightest young people making strides here.

We sifted through an impressive pool of folks nominated by our readers — restaurateurs, mentors, business leaders, creatives, and professionals in a variety of PHOTO: SHARA CLARK fields — and There’s a little more light every day. it was no easy task to whittle them down to 20 finalists. Within these pages you’ll learn more about these 20 people under the age of 30 who — with their own shining lights — are forging a path toward a brighter future for us all, sowing seeds that will bear fruit for years to come.

In reading about their endeavors, especially this time of year, I’m given a little burst of hope. The nights are long and the trees are bare, but all around us seeds are sown — literally and metaphorically — awaiting germination. And as astrophysicist, author, and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson reminded us on TikTok (@StarTalk) earlier this month, “People think of winter as being dull and drab and dreary and cold, depending on your latitude on Earth, and I don’t think about it that way because every day of winter has slightly more sunlight than the day before it. So the winter months are — if you date it from the winter solstice, December 21st — each day shows more and more sunlight, and so for me that’s hopeful. It’s summertime NEWS & OPINION THE FLY-BY - 4 we are systematically losing sunlight. So POLITICS - 7 people say, ‘Oh the days get longer in AT LARGE - 8 the summer and shorter in the winter’ FINANCE - 9 — the exact opposite is true.”

VIEWPOINT - 10 That’s a nice thought to keep as we COVER STORY “20<30” move through the rest of winter. And

BY CHRIS MCCOY - 11 as our 20<30 and other change-makers WE RECOMMEND - 17 help shape the Memphis we want to see.

MUSIC - 18 Each day, more light.

AFTER DARK - 19 While we may be hibernating for CALENDAR - 20 a while still, the roots are down there NY TIMES CROSSWORD - 22 BOOKS -24 riotous. I wait anxiously with them, SPORTS -24 looking forward to the growth to come ASTROLOGY - 25 — and all the blossoms that will appear NEWS OF THE WEIRD - 26 around the bend.

FOOD - 27 Shara Clark FILM - 28 shara@memphisflyer.com CLASSIFIEDS - 30

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THE

fly-by

MEMernet Memphis on the internet.

S N O W, O B V I Winter Storm Heather (Did anyone ever really call it that?) was forecast to be gone by press time.

It sucked IRL. But it made for a fun week on POSTED TO FACEBOOK the MEMerBY PAUL BURNS net. I mean, just look at that beautiful photo above by Paul Burns from Facebook.

January 25-31, 2024

POSTED TO TIKTOK BY @DUCKMASTERKENON

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Kenon Walker, duckmaster at The Peabody Hotel, shared some cheery wholesomeness on TikTok, marching his charges through the snow.

POSTED TO REDDIT BY B1GR1G

Memphis Redditor B1gR1g measured the snow fall with, yep, a 40-ounce Cobra.

The Daily Memphian’s Abigail Warren reported on X that it looked “like about four inches in Collierville.” To this, the hilarious Memphis Light, Gas & Water parody account @MemphisMGLW replied, “four inches prolly big for Collierville.”

{

Questions, Answers + Attitude Edited by Toby Sells

W E E K T H AT WA S

By Flyer staff

Freeze, Triathlon, & Cockfighting Memphians boil water, a big race for sale, and more than 100 chickens euthanized.

WINTER STORM Winter Storm Heather left five dead in Shelby County, pushed a record-breaking demand for electricity, and put all residents under a boil water advisory.

Last Monday, Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) asked customers to voluntarily reduce their electricity usage in hopes of avoiding brownouts or blackouts. As freezing temperatures persisted, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) said it met an all-time high demand for power last Wednesday and broke a record for weekend demand last Sunday.

MLGW’s water system held up during the beginning of the event.

However, the utility issued a boil water advisory for parts of its service area last Thursday, thanks to dozens of frozen water mains.

That advisory was expanded last Friday to cover all MLGW customers. Officials hoped to lift the PHOTOS: (TOP) MEMPHIS IN MAY; (LEFT) COURTESY CHARLES PEEK VIA FACEBOOK advisory sometime this week.

The Memphis in May Triathlon is up for sale; Weather Channel reporters had At the beginning of the storm, their car burgled; police busted a Memphis cockfighting ring. reporters from The Weather Channel came to town for special coverage. Charles Peek, a reporter and photographer (MAS) where officials found they had mycoplasma, a bacfamiliar to any Weather Channel watcher, said his car and teria that causes significant damage to the body. The disease others were broken into in their hotel’s parking lot. posed a threat to the area’s poultry industry.

“Not really how I wanted to start my day in Memphis,” MAS said the birds were “discovered to be kept in Peek wrote on Facebook. cramped cages and standing in their own feces.” They were discovered at the duplex of 47-year-old Luis Vallellanes, M E M P H I S I N M AY T R I A T H L O N who has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.

The Memphis in May Triathlon (MIM Tri) — set to run for Authorities also found “a dog with injuries consistent with its 40th year — is up for sale. animal fighting” at Vallellanes’ home earlier this month.

Race owner and organizer, PR Event Management, made Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, said its the offer public earlier this month. The event is not part of investigations into animal fighting in Tennessee have spanned the Memphis in May International Festival. from Cocke County to Shelby County. He also said this recent The statement says the offer gives “interested and qualidiscovery is a threat to the state’s “major” poultry industry. fied parties the opportunity to acquire the Legacy 40th “That’s not a circumstance that farmers or consumers can Memphis in May Olympic and Sprint Triathlons in time for afford, and state lawmakers need to act and stop kowtowing the 2024 season.” to organized criminal associations in the state,” said Pacelle The sale includes the Memphis in May Olympic and in a statement.

Sprint Triathlons, Annie Oakley Buffalo Bill Sprint and During the 2023 legislative session, state Senator Jon Super Sprint Triathlons, the Dragon Fly Sprint Triathlon, Lundberg (R-Bristol) introduced a bill to make “certain equipment, and more. animal cruelty offenses involving a cock” a Class E Felony.

As of now, Tennessee is only one of eight states that does not COCKFIGHTING provide “felony-level penalties” for cockfighting.

More than 100 roosters and hens were euthanized last week after police busted a cockfighting operation located in Memphis.

Visit the News Blog at memphisflyer.com for fuller versions of The animals were taken to Memphis Animal Services these stories and more local news.

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“Unlawful Redlining”

Millington-based Patriot Bank denies allegations of lending discrimination but agrees to $2 million settlement in DOJ case.

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atriot Bank will spend nearly $2 million to settle allegations of lending discrimination towards communities of color in Memphis, according to U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) officials.

Bank officials said they voluntarily agreed to collaborate with the DOJ. In the settlement, the bank will pay $1.9 million to “resolve allegations that the bank engaged in a pattern of or practice of lending discrimination by redlining majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in Memphis, Tennessee.”

The DOJ’s original complaint was brought against Patriot Bank under the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. These acts prohibit discrimination for home loans on the basis of race and color.

They also prohibit redlining.

“From 2015 through at least 2020, Patriot engaged in a pattern or practice of unlawful redlining,” the complaint reads. “Patriot avoided providing home loans and other mortgage services in majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Memphis, Tennessee.”

January 25-31, 2024

“Patriot avoided providing home loans and other mortgage services in majorityBlack and Hispanic neighborhoods ...”

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The DOJ alleges that from 2015 through 2020, Patriot’s redlining activities included having locations and a majority of their branches and loan production offices and all its mortgage loan officers in majoritywhite neighborhoods. The bank was also accused of avoiding marketing in other areas.

The Justice Department added that while the bank may have received loan applications from applicants in majority-Black and Hispanic areas, it found that they were “disproportionately white.” The agency also found during the six-year period, other banks “received nearly 3.5 times as many loan applications” in communities of color.

“As a result of the abovedescribed practices, Patriot generated disproportionately low numbers of loan applications and home loans during each year in the relevant time period from majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Memphis, as compared to similarly situated lenders,” the complaint says.

However, bank leaders said they do not understand why the DOJ “pursued this matter,” and said Patriot Bank “originated a greater number of mortgage loans in Black and Hispanic areas in the city of Memphis than hundreds of other lenders.”

“Patriot ranked 14th out of 482 lenders in making mortgage loans in minority areas of Memphis in 2021 and 15th out of 534 lenders in 2022,” reads a statement from Patriot Bank.

“In Tipton County, Patriot ranked first, second, or third in making loans in minority areas in each year from 2015 to the present.”

About $1.3 million of the settlement funds will be used to increase access to home mortgage, home improvement, and home refinancing for residents of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. The bank will also spend $375,000 to increase advertising and other credit and outreach-based opportunities focused on those same neighborhoods. Also, $250,000 will be used on “community partnerships to provide services that increase residential mortgage credit access for residents of those neighborhoods.”

Under the proposed consent order, the bank must also ensure that at least two mortgage loan officers serve the majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the city while also employing a director of community lending for continued development of lending in these neighborhoods.

“The actions described in the consent order embrace the programs that Patriot has already had in place for years, and Patriot is pleased to continue with its existing initiatives that demonstrate the bank’s commitment to communities of color,” said Keith Barger, vice chairman of Patriot Bank and CEO of Patriot Bank Mortgage.

The bank, which opened in Millington in 2001, has eight fullservice banks in Millington, Arlington, Collierville, Rosemark, and Raleigh Springs in Shelby County, and Covington, Covington South, and South Tipton in Tipton County.

POLITICS By Jackson Baker

Taylor Still At It

MUSIC

State senator asks AG if governor can assign and reassign local criminal cases. violent crime problem.”

This new letter is the latest in a series of public statements in which the senator, who was elected to his first term just last year, has inquired of other state officials about the possibility of extending state power into areas that have previously been reserved for local authorities.

In previous missives to the governor, to House Speaker Cameron Sexton, and to the state board of professional responsibility, he has proposed such actions as sending the National Guard into Memphis and reducing the supervisory power of Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy.

The senator has introduced a legislative package in Nashville that, among other things, would change bail laws, require law enforcement to report undocumented immigrants, and reclassify stolen gun charges.

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Brent Taylor is functioning as a sort of self-appointed scourge of Shelby County’s law-enforcement infrastructure.

Another of his proposals would exempt Memphis police from having to uphold a city council prohibition against preemptive traffic stops for suspected minor infractions. At the moment, this matter has achieved hotbutton status in city government.

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State Senator Brent Taylor, who is functioning as a sort of self-appointed scourge of Shelby County’s existing law-enforcement infrastructure, is at it again — attempting to prod state government into intervening against “the slow movement of cases” through the county’s criminal justice system.

“Crime in Memphis has risen to a level that requires immediate action to save the city,” Taylor proclaimed in a newly released letter to Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti.

He cites figures appearing to show that processing of criminal cases in the county dropped to a level of 40 cases last year, down from “approximately 200 per year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Taylor’s letter poses four questions to the attorney general: “(1) Does the Governor of Tennessee have the authority to assign judges from one or more judicial districts to other judicial districts for purposes of trying criminal cases? “(2) Does the Governor of Tennessee have the authority to temporarily assign judges from a certain judicial district to try criminal cases in that same judicial district? “(3) Does the Governor of Tennessee have the authority to require Shelby County Circuit Court Judges to handle criminal matters in Shelby County? “(4) Who has the authority to require certain Shelby County Circuit Court Judges to assist with and/or try criminal cases?”

Taylor, who represents state Senate District 31, said in the letter that, if the governor is deemed to have such authority to assign judges — whether from other judicial districts or from other courts within the same district — to help process criminal cases in Shelby County, then he would request the governor do so immediately.

“By prosecuting criminal cases quickly, we will remove violent and repeat criminal offenders from the streets of Memphis so that the lawabiding can raise their families in peace and safety,” he wrote in the letter.

Taylor, who is a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote, “I am determined to pursue any legal avenue available to tackle our serious

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“Non-liquid gold. You know where it was? Iowa. It’s called corn. They have, it’s non-liquid, that’s my thing, you have more NON-LIQUID gold. They said what is that? I said corn, we love that idea, you know it’s a pretty cool thought isn’t it? That’s a nickname in its own way, but we came up with a new word, a new couple of words, for corn.”

This was part of a speech Donald Trump gave in New Hampshire last week, just after he’d won the Iowa primary. He went on for more than an hour, free-styling, feeling the flow, singing the song of himself, like Walt Whitman on Adderall: “We’re going to place strong protections to stop banks and regulators from trying to debank you from your — your political beliefs, what they do. They want to debank you. We’re going to debank — think of this — they want to take away your country. Electric cars!”

They want to debank your electric cars! Or something! Wake up, Sheeple!

Also, “non-liquid gold”? Isn’t there a name for that already? Like, um, gold?

According to news reports, people began edging out of the room after 40 minutes, leaving The Donald to wander on unescorted through the echo chambers of his brain for another half hour. In a speech four days later, he repeatedly confused GOP opponent Nikki Haley with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. If your elderly uncle were talking like this, you’d recognize that he’s tired and sundowning and that you needed to get him back to his assisted-living facility. Trump’s people?

Not so much. They understand all too well that Trump babbling incoherently is like Trump shooting a man on Fifth Avenue. His hardcore base will lap it up and still follow him anywhere. They’re like Deadheads, only stupid.

Look, fatigue can get to anyone.

Trump had just spent a week in frigid Iowa, putting in long days of shaking hands, schmoozing, and speechifying.

He’d also made an appearance in New York at his rape/defamation trial, where he muttered and scowled and ticked off the judge. Then he’d traveled to Florida to attend his mother-in-law’s funeral, before then flying to New Hampshire to shake hands, schmooze, and speechify some more. That kind of schedule would exhaust any normal human, much less an out-of-shape 77-year-old facing four looming court dates and 91 felony charges while trying to run for president in his spare time.

It’s all so absurd. Iowa’s primary is

essentially meaningless.

So is New Hampshire’s.

Here are a few numbers to consider: Iowa has 2.1 million registered voters, includPHOTO: SONGSAK PANAME ing 631,689 | DREAMSTIME Democrats and 718,901 Republicans. Around 110,000 Republican voters participated in the caucuses. Trump won 56,260 votes — 51 percent of Republicans who voted — or a whopping 2.6 percent of Iowa’s registered voters.

Here are some of the next day’s Big Media headlines: “Trump Gets Blowout Win in Iowa!” “Record Winning Margin for Trump!” “Trump Trounces Rivals!”

We’re being played, my friends — hustled for clicks, views, engagement.

The Iowa Republicans who caucused are 98 percent white. Fifty percent were older than 65. Fifty-one percent were born-again Christians or evangelicals, and two-thirds (66 percent) believed Joe Biden did not legitimately win the 2020 presidential contest. Sixty percent favored a nationwide ban on abortions.

The Iowa caucuses are not a “barometer” of anything except what a tiny handful of old, white, rural Midwesterners want. Don’t believe me? Just ask President Cruz, who won Iowa in 2016, or President Santorum (2012), or President Huckabee (2008).

And New Hampshire is just more of the same — 94 percent white, mostly rural, and with even fewer voters than Iowa. But the national media will have spent countless hours of airtime and created millions of words of reportage, conjecture, and spin on this meaningless ritual by the time you read this. President Bernie Sanders would like a word.

It would all be comic opera, if it weren’t so terrifying. A presidential candidate from one of the two major political parties is clearly morally and mentally unqualified to hold the office, and the national media treat the situation as though it were politics as usual. If Trump is reelected, an entire administration, an entire country, and the rest of the world, will all be trying to do a work-around, pretending like Trump’s impulsive blather is coherent and meaningful.

“Yes, Mr. President, we’ve informed the British prime minister and his wife that we’ll be serving the president’s favorite dish — non-liquid gold on the cob.”

FINANCE By Gene Gard

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There are countless insights in a As you get more experienced with budget for businesses to tap into to your budget, you may want to consider shape their strategy. If an area is severely more robust budgeting tools, like Jirav, overspending, that may signify deeper that offer a deeper analysis of your performance issues or inefficiencies financial metrics and advanced reportthat need to be addressed. The reverse ing capabilities. The same applies if may be true for areas that underspend.

Eventually, you may choose to set up your budget to track revenue by a team or employee and use that data to determine how to allocate future funds.

No matter where you decide to focus your attention within your budget, it should be reviewed and adjusted every year to meet the changing needs of your business.

PHOTO: FIRMBEE.COM | UNSPLASH One of the most your business has rapidly grown or has challenging aspects of budgeting is simplans for expanding — you may find ply getting started. Whether you opt to that a simple spreadsheet is no longer use a basic program like Excel, a robust sufficient and could be holding your software option, or even the back of a business back. napkin, a budget is only useful if you put effort into it.

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ments involved, depending on the size of your business. Each team will most likely have their own budget to follow, so it’s important to make sure everyone’s plans align with the overall vision and direction of the company.

NEWS & OPINION

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Self-Awareness and Personal Protection Workshop

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The Power of Opportunity And the importance of school choice.

Sunday, February 4th, 2024 (2 sessions) Church Health Meeting Room/Crosstown 1350 Concourse Ave Memphis, TN 38104 1:00PM-2:30PM (1st session) 3:30PM-5:00PM (2nd session) Scan QR codes for information and tickets for sessions.

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T

he last week of January is National School Choice Week, a week dedicated to advocating for policies that promote education freedom for families, allowing parents to choose the education best suited for their children.

However, the spotlight on support for school choice should extend beyond one week, especially being that it is one of the few nonpartisan issues that is popular throughout the country — and not just with Republican primary voters, but also among 71 percent of all voters, across all demographics and the general electorate.

Tennessee is one of 13 states with an education savings account program, which allows lower-income families to receive approximately $7,000 per year in private school tuition assistance. Growing up in a zip code where poverty ran rampant, I was able to qualify for an education savings account, an opportunity that changed my life path completely.

My mom and my grandmother were the matriarchs of the family, and my school choice journey began with them. They were the biggest advocates for my siblings and me, always looking for opportunities to help us get ahead and seeking resources to break down the barriers we faced in accessing a quality education.

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Instead of being relegated to the schools that we were zoned for, school choice allowed me to attend New Hope Christian Academy, opening my world up to new possibilities through an exceptional education I would not have otherwise received. New Hope cultivated in me a commitment to hard work and servant leadership, and inspirited the notion that my biggest hopes and dreams could become a reality.

For middle and high school, I continued my journey at independent schools and attended Evangelical Christian School, where I learned academic discipline and outsideof-the-box thinking.

Advanced classes and extracurricular activities prepared me for college, challenging my worldview and thought process constantly.

After graduating from Evangelical Christian School, I attended University of Memphis where I graduated magna cum laude with a degree in social work.

While achieving something like this is attributed to many different factors, the undeniable reality is that the foundation laid by my private schools was instrumental in my success. I currently work for City Leadership, one of the top nonprofit consulting firms in the city of Memphis, and originally made the connection through my school choice journey.

It would have been impossible for me to realize my full potential without the opportunities and support system that school choice afforded me. I aspire to see more students who are just like me, overcoming their circumstances to rewrite their future.

I truly believe that every family deserves the chance to choose their child’s education and have access to any school in their commu-

nity, no matter their background.

In 2023, 20 states said “yes” to expanding school choice. These states either currently implement or are trying to implement policies that allow students to have a variety of choices when it comes to their education, whether that be traditional public schools, private schools, charter schools, or homeschooling. While this evolution of school choice across the country is remarkable, there are still millions of students stuck in school systems based on their family’s income or zip code that don’t fit their unique learning needs.

School choice is essential for the current and future generations of Tennessee, and our lawmakers should support education freedom here and for students across America through the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a federal tax credit scholarship bill that would help up to 2 million students access a school or education service of their parents’ choice.

The ECCA would fund scholarships with private donations, not federal money, and donors would receive a federal tax credit. Students could use scholarships for tuition, tutoring to address learning loss, special needs services, education technology, and more.

The bill would triple the number of students benefiting from private school choice programs, and it would complement the programs already in effect in 31 states, while creating new opportunities in 19 states that lack the option of school choice. The legislation has more than 100 House co-sponsors and more than two dozen Senate co-sponsors.

My story is proof that there lies power in opportunity, and school choice can give you a chance to blaze a path for generations to come. Education is not “one-size-fits-all” and families deserve the opportunity to choose where their children will learn the best. I urge lawmakers to support school choice by supporting the ECCA so that every child has the opportunity to achieve academic success, despite their background.

Joi Taylor is Choose901 alumni director at City Leadership in Memphis and a graduate of the Tennessee Educational Savings Account Program. She was also recognized in the Memphis Flyer’s 20<30 class of 2020.

Every family deserves the chance to choose their child’s education.

COVER STORY BY CHRIS McCOY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON DILL

The class of 2024 Every year, the Memphis Flyer asks our readers to nominate outstanding young people in Memphis who are making a difference in their community. We chose the top 20 from an outstanding field of more than 50 nominations.

SARA BARRERA Economic Development Manager, Downtown Memphis Commission After studying sustainability at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Barrera returned to Memphis to earn a degree in urban planning from the University of Memphis. She found the Downtown Memphis Commission to be a perfect fit for her talents and interests. “It’s been really rewarding to get to work with some small business owners that are trying to open up their first business, or people who are venturing out into neighborhoods that have been neglected for a long time and want to take on renewed faith in getting some stuff established out there.”

COURTNEY BLANCHARD Chief of Staff, Greater Memphis Chamber

BRIANA BUTLER Associate Attorney, Baker Donelson

SARAH CAI Co-Owner/Chef, Good Fortune Co.

A native Memphian, Blanchard interned at the Tennessee legislature before working at the economic development and governmental affairs office at the University of Memphis. She followed her mentor, Ted Townsend, to the Greater Memphis Chamber, where he is now the president and CEO. She describes her role as “The Convener” for the business organization. “We’re very intentional about the economic development that we work with at the Chamber because we don’t want the tide to just drive for some, we say that if the tide hasn’t risen for everyone, we’re not doing our job. We can’t leave anybody behind.”

“I’ve known since a very early age that I wanted to be a lawyer,” says Butler, who was the first person in her family to finish college. “I didn’t really know what that would look like, but I knew I wanted to go to law school.”

Her dreams were complicated when she became pregnant. “I had my son at 18, so it was my second semester of freshman year of college, a particularly difficult time.” She managed to juggle the demands of both young motherhood and higher education, graduating magna cum laude from the University of Memphis in only three years and earning a degree at Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. At 23, she achieved her goal of landing a job at Baker Donelson. “Every single day, I feel like I’m taking a class. … If you have a seemingly unrealistic goal — which, my goal was unrealistic — create a very detailed plan. It gives you small little chunks that are more doable and more realistic to get you to the seemingly unrealistic goal.”

The mind behind Downtown’s favorite noodle shop grew up in Memphis, until her father moved the family to Guangdong, China, when she was 13. “When I was in college, I started working in hospitality and one of my mentors actually recommended that I try being a line cook, since he noticed I had a lot of passion for food. I tried it and absolutely loved it.

“My dad’s from China, my mom’s from Indonesia, so they were immigrants to this country. As we were growing up, they would always take us home as they could afford it, a trip every few years or so.

From a young age, I was exposed to whole different types of culture, all different types of cuisine. And so I think being exposed to such variety of cuisine really helped develop my palate and also gave me a lot of experiences that people have never had before. When I decided to open Good Fortune, I was like, I think it’s got to be in Memphis. It just felt right to me.” continued on page 12

COVER STORY m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Memphis, meet your future leaders, the 20<30 Class of 2024.

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continued from page 11

LIONEL DAVIS II Energy & Infrastructure Executive, Johnson Controls

January 25-31, 2024

“I’ve always been somewhat of a tinkerer; some may call it mischievous,” says Davis, who turned his talents into a mechanical engineering degree and moved to Memphis from Little Rock for his current job. “We spend over 90 percent of our time in buildings, and the pandemic highlighted the value of indoor air quality. These are things that my company and my industry have prioritized.”

Davis serves as the first Black president in the 80-year history of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)’s Memphis chapter, as an assistant basketball coach at Binghampton Christian Academy, and as the former co-chair of the young adult ministry of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church. “I really feel as though once you understand that your life is not solely meant to enrich yourself, the greatest among us is the one who serves the least among us.”

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AHMAD GEORGE Artist “I’ve always been drawing, I’ve always been doodling,” says George. “My high school teacher, Mr. Adair, who’s passed now, sadly, he really saw a future for it in me.”

George attended the much-missed Memphis College of Art and devoted themself to their painting. After successful gallery appearances in Miami and Spain, George recently had their first solo Memphis show at Crosstown Arts, “The Molasses Man and Other Delta Tales.” They describe their art as a kind of uncanny realism. “I like the psychological aspects and sensory aspects of art. I want to make people feel things, and not necessarily an overwhelmingly sad or bursting with happiness feeling.”

George’s painting, The Molasses Man, from their Crosstown show was acquired by the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art this past November.

SONDRA PHAM KHAMMAVONG ALSAC/St. Jude Talent Acquisition Liaison, Asian Night Market Founder The native Memphian plays an important role at ALSAC. “I recruit students nationwide to join our internship program,” she says.

But you probably know the fruits of Khammavong’s other passion. When she founded the Vietnamese Student Association at the University of Memphis, she was following in her family’s footsteps.

“My grandpa was one of those first [Vietnamese] that did come here to Memphis. So I’m just excited to continue the foundation that he started and the roots, even though I was born here in America, but just want to keep that heritage going and now that I have kids, just to be able to incorporate them into the culture.”

Most recently, she helped create the Asian Night Market, which attracted more than 8,000 people to Crosstown Concourse. “The Asian Night Market is the first in this city where we brought all the vibrant Asian cultures to one place with something that people love, which is food,” she says. “It was so amazing to see the city come together for a diverse event.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like that, especially for the Asian community.”

ALEXA MARIE KINTANAR FedEx Express Avionics Engineer After a stint as an Apple Genius piqued her interest in electronics, Kintanar got an internship at FedEx. “I tried it, and I caught what they call the aviation bug from the get-go,” she says. “I saw how massive this technology was and how impactful it could be around the world, and we saw a lot of that actually during the pandemic.”

Kintanar is the first-generation offspring of Philippine-American immigrants. “A lot of what I wanted to do was make them proud — take all the hard courses, get all the scholarships. But also at the same time, make sure I loved what I was doing because I knew from a very young age that if you don’t love what you’re going to do, then it’s torture.

You can’t have a job that you hate.”

She pays her good fortune forward as a member of REACH Memphis.

“I participate in a lot of mentorship programs. Currently at FedEx, I work with the outreach program to Memphis City Schools for aircraft maintenance. We go to schools with students who don’t have as many opportunities, or aren’t aware of the opportunities that they have.”

BROOKS LAMB Author, Farmer, Land Protection and Access Specialist, American Farmland Trust This Rhodes College graduate’s passion is the land. “Most of my work lies in trying to support small and midsize farmers because they have been getting squeezed and undervalued and underappreciated for quite a long time.”

His two books are about our relationship to the Earth. “Overton Park: A People’s History looks at that in a more urbanfocused, very Memphis context, and the way that people have really served as stewards of the park for generations. My newest book is called Love for the Land: Lessons from Farmers Who Persist in Place. It looks at the challenges that small and midsize farmers face, paying particular attention to challenges from farmland loss and farmland conversion from sprawl, haphazard real estate development, and challenges from agricultural consolidations. For farmers of color, there are issues of systemic racism and injustice in the past, but also still very much in the present.”

EMMA LESS Senior Manager of Development, Overton Park Shell “I don’t think you can grow up in Memphis and not appreciate music,” says Less. And there is no better place to appreciate music than the Overton Park Shell. “I remember going in high school and being so impressed that it was a place for everyone, and that you could hear really amazing bands. … I think there’s a lot to be said about the fact that it is free, and that means that you can decide to come the night of, and enjoy it with all your friends. You don’t have to worry about getting tickets and planning ahead, and that also means there’s more opportunity for anyone to be able to come regardless of their ability to pay for music and the arts.”

Less’ fundraising work aims to keep the music free. “Every time I carry the bucket through the crowd, it’s always just so lovely. It’s something that came from when the Shell was first built in 1936, and they passed a hat around. It’s always been important that the community has the buy-in and feels that they’re a part of the Shell, because it is theirs, too. Whether you’re giving us $5 or $5,000, it doesn’t matter.”

20 30 The class of 2024

have been with them from the beginning.

Ellen, proudly independent for 25 years.

As a native Memphian, and inaugural i-bank customer, I have so many stories I could share. But time and again, what impresses me most is i-bank’s genuine compassion. I once saw an employee not only start an account for an unbanked Memphian, but he also paid for a passport out of his own pocket to help the new account holder embrace a wider life. That’s Memphis. That’s my bank. Ellen Klyce i-bank customer since 1998

The Marion, Arkansas, native is currently a sophomore at the University of Memphis, majoring in political science and legal studies.

“What really propelled me to get involved in Memphis was the modern-day lynching, which I would describe it as, of Tyre Nichols at the hands of the Memphis Police Department, who deprived that man of his life in the most repugnant manner imaginable just 80 yards away from his mother’s residence.

That propelled me to go to the city council, the first city council meeting of 2023, following the death of Tyre Nichols and demand a slate of important police reform measures.”

Massey has also been involved in labor issues and in fighting anti-LGBTQ bills in the state legislature, a body he hopes one day to join. “I think it’s important to remind the naysayers, those people who want to undermine youth contributions to these pivotal conversations, that the youth are at the forefront of every major issue affecting Memphis.”

continued on page 14

Start your story with i-bank today, and find out why being proudly independent is the most rewarding way to bank.

i-bankonline.com COVER STORY m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

RICHARD MASSEY West Tennessee Vice President, Tennessee Young Democrats

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continued from page 13

SAVANNAH MILLER Director of New Works, Playhouse on the Square

January 25-31, 2024

Miller, a writer and dramatist who graduated from Dartmouth College and has already had five of her own plays staged, took over the New Works program in 2023. Under her watch, entries surged to more than 500 plays and musicals from playwrights all over the globe competing for two slots on the Playhouse on the Square stage.

“I would love for Memphis to be on the map as a place for writers. Before I first came here, I was thinking music. I was thinking visual arts. I was thinking history. I don’t know if I was thinking so much writers and theater artists, but I should have been because we have an amazing pool of talent here in Memphis. I feel like my job as a curator of voices is to showcase that to the world, to get these opportunities out there to people, and let other folks outside of the Mid-South see what we’re doing here in Memphis.”

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JESSICA MORRIS Counselor, Christian Brothers High School Morris originally wanted to be a therapist, she says. “However, the more I researched, the more I realized that many mental health issues arise in childhood. Yet in the state of Tennessee, there is only one school counselor for every 458 students. I realized that school counselors have a more preventative effect on student mental health. This convinced me that I belong on the front lines, helping teenagers develop into healthy, emotionally stable adults.

“I think today’s teenagers are facing a near-constant overload of technological stimulation,” she says.

“My department’s role is to offer our students a safe, calming environment where they can talk with a trusted adult away from the noise and stimulation of their lives. We take proactive measures in talking to our student body about cyber-balance, how to evaluate one’s mental wellbeing, and how to ask for help.”

JORDAN OCCASIONALLY Musician Born a singer, Occasionally decided to devote their life to music full-time at age 15. They earned a music business degree at the University of Memphis.

“I started releasing music during the pandemic in 2021, and it went viral on TikTok and the rest was history,” Occasionally says. “I can say that the local community has been very loving to and receptive towards my music, and it’s given me the courage to break into the L.A. market, or into the New York market, or even around across the globe, the UK market. I wouldn’t have been able to get there without Memphis loving me first.”

At the same time, they have embraced activism, organizing Black Lives Matter protests and advocating for the unhoused community. “Toni Morrison said that all art is political. …

I feel like I had an obligation along with having a platform. Anytime you have a stage, what you do with it matters.”

ELIJAH POSTON Musician/Director of Operations, Jack Robinson Gallery A foundational member of the Smith7 Records collective, Poston began getting attention for his music at a very early age. He created the public access TV show Kids Do Positive Thingz to showcase young talent in the MidSouth. After graduating from Loyola’s music program, he designed the music theory curriculum at Visible Music College. The multi-instrumentalist taught guitar and released music from his band Doter Sweetly. Today, he can be found on drums with General Labor and is prepping new music from a new group, Great Fortune.

Meanwhile, the position at Jack Robinson Gallery has opened up new vistas for Poston, who has begun dabbling in poster design. “I obviously stay busy because when I’m not here, I’m doing General Labor. I’m teaching at the U of M. And when I’m not doing that, I’m doing one of the other projects that I’m doing. But it is a lot. I was very lucky to have been introduced to everybody here, and it ended up being a perfect fit.”

AMIRA RANDOLPH Youth Mentoring Specialist, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis “I feel a real devotion to my city,” says Randolph. “Every time that we as a community can come together and do things to refresh Memphis, to move it forward into time, to make it a safer place for everyone and be more inclusive, that just makes it even better. And so whenever there’s an opportunity for me to do that, use my talent to do that, then I’m going to take it for sure.”

Randolph got her devotion to service from her father Ian, and says she believes mentorship is the key to helping at-risk youth thrive. “That is my whole drive and purpose. I deeply, deeply care about our youth. I know how important it is to have somebody there. You can be surrounded by family and surrounded by friends, and you still need that person to guide you outside of that.”

continued from page 15

CHLOE SEXTON Baker and Owner, Bluff Cakes

JAKE WARREN Corporate Credit Analyst, First Horizon Bank

As a producer for WREG-TV, Sexton was responsible for the political talk show Informed Sources. “Baking was just kind of this hobby that I used to blow off steam. I left TV, and I went into marketing. When the pandemic hit, everybody lost their jobs, and I was terrified. I was trying to learn how can I take all the skills that I have with television, with writing, with storytelling, and with marketing, and blend that into making my little hobby something profitable that’s gonna help me survive a pandemic. That’s how Bluff Cakes came about. Oh, did I mention I was pregnant?”

Now, Bluff Cakes ships Sexton’s creations all over the country, where her more than 2 million social media followers gobble them up. “The best advice that I learned was, if you’re gonna throw yourself into the public eye, you need to grow a thick skin very fast. … Also, trust your gut. It’s not as important as people think it is to follow trends. I would say it’s wildly more important to start your own.”

“Finance was just my bread and butter.

I’ve always been a numbers guy, kind of my cup of tea,” says Warren.

He loves “being able to help others achieve their goals, whether it be an individual preparing for retirements, buying their first house, or just helping a small business continue to grow. The end product is really what I enjoy most.

There’s a lot of things behind the scenes like lots of graphs, spreadsheets, making predictions, trying to figure out what the best game plan is for them. It is hard work, but at the end of the day, just seeing others succeed is what keeps me going.”

Warren was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of 4 and was involved in the Make-A-Wish program. Now with CF in remission, he is on the Mid-South chapter’s board of directors. “Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time getting ready for an event with the Make-A-Wish Foundation we’re hosting in February. My kitchen is full of boxes of silent auction items!”

NO PAYWALL memphisflyer.com

COVER STORY m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

20 30 The class of 2024

15

BRANDON WASHINGTON Tennessee Young Adult Advisory Council

OLIVIA WHITTINGTON Real Estate Manager, AutoZone

At age 15, Washington was thrown into the Tennessee foster care system. Now, he is a sophomore at Rhodes College, and ran for City Council Super District 19 in the 2023 elections, where he garnered more than 16,000 votes.

“I had just came from D.C., advocating up there for expansion of resources for foster care. Two or three weeks later, President Joe Biden signed into law the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, which expanded SNAP benefits to include aged-out foster youth, which is something that we were advocating. I realized that young people, we don’t have to wait until we’re more experienced to make change. We can actually make change now. We just need the platform to be heard.”

Washington is an international studies major, with the goal of one day becoming secretary of state. As for Memphis City Council, “I’m already preparing to run in 2027 for the same position.”

“I manage the opening of AutoZone stores from site selection all the way to store opening,” says Whittington, who earned an urban planning master’s degree from the University of Memphis.

“It’s been a great experience for me, and I’ve learned a lot.”

When she’s not busy expanding the AutoZone empire, she volunteers with Memphis Animal Services, “doing videos and photography for the dogs that are on the ‘urgent list’, who are basically slated for euthanasia. Those get shared with Memphis Animal Services and then other rescue groups around the country. There are groups online that will share that information to try and find a foster adopter or rescue for those particular dogs. And it can be hard, because you can’t save all of them.”

She says she feels obligated to help find homes for these dogs in distress because “the problem won’t get any better if people just want to look away from the problem.”

20 30 The class of 2024

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SUE: The T. rex Experience was organized by the Field Museum and is part of the Griffin Dinosaur Experience, made possible by the generous support from Kenneth C.Griffin Charitable Fund.

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We Recommend: Culture, News + Reviews

10 Years, 10 Films

By Abigail Morici

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Morris and Mollye Fogelman International Jewish Film Festival. The monthlong event features 10 films, ranging in genre and subject, but all with some sort of Jewish connection. “They’re not all Jewish content, but maybe they have a Jewish director or something that ties it into the Jewish community,” says Sophie Samuels, program director for cultural arts and adult services at the Memphis Jewish Community Center (JCC). “We always want to introduce different types of cultural arts to our community, so I think that this is a great way to do it.”

For the festival, the JCC has a committee of about 10 people who “takes a list from about 45 films each year — and [the films] usually come out within the past two years — and we narrow them down until we get our films.” The goal, Samuels says, is to present a variety of offerings. This year’s films range from a documentary about a porn cinema empire and the eccentric woman behind it (Queen of the Deuce), to an animated story of a family living in the shadow of the Holocaust (My Father’s Secrets). “We try to do something for everyone,” Samuels says.

This year’s festival opens on Tuesday, January 30th, at 7 p.m., with Remembering Gene Wilder, a documentary taking a close look at the life of the “performer, writer, director, and all-around mensch.” A screening of the documentary Repairing the World: Stories from the Tree of Life will follow on Sunday, February 4th, at 4 p.m., with its coverage of the community affected by violence and trauma after the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. On February 6th, the JCC will screen the romantic drama March ’68, which takes place during Poland’s exodus of nearly 15,000 Jews due to a hostile anti-Semitic campaign, and on February 11th, festival-goers can view The Narrow Bridge, a documentary that follows four individuals, Palestinian and Israeli, who are part of an organization called Israeli Palestinian Bereaved Families, who aim to turn their personal devastation into social change.

Other screenings include the animated My Father’s Secrets on February 18th; documentaries Queen of the Deuce on February 20th, Simone: Woman of the Century on February 22nd, Hope Without Boundaries on February 25th, and Vishniac on February 27; and the Israeli musical/rom-com Our Story on February 29th.

Overall, Samuels hopes the festival brings the community — Jewish and non-Jewish — together. “I think that it’s great, especially after Covid, for people to be in a place that they feel comfortable in and to see other people and connect over these films.”

Tickets for individual films are $7, or $5 for JCC members. Series passes are $49, or $35 for JCC members. Visit jccmemphis.org for a full schedule, descriptions of all the films, and to purchase tickets.

MORRIS & MOLLYE FOGELMAN INTERNATIONAL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL, BELZ THEATER AT THE ORGEL FAMILY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, MEMPHIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER, 6560 POPLAR AVENUE, TUESDAY, JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY-29, $5-$7.

The Birds & The Seeds Lichterman Nature Center, 5992 Quince, Saturday, January 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., free First get your mind out of the gutter.

This event is about the birds and the SEEDS. We didn’t name the event, but we dig it. (See, we can make our own puns, too.)

The Lichterman’s Birds & the Seeds will have a variety of activities to help folks escape the winter blues and get ready for spring — could it come any faster, please? Highlights include a seed swap, bird-watching and gardening experts to answer questions, a beginner bird-watching seminar, birding from the balcony, plant sales from the Lichterman greenhouse, a seed walk, and activity tables hosted by community partners like Black Seeds Urban Farm, Cooper-Young Garden Club, Memphis Botanic Garden, Tennessee Bluebird Society, and more.

Variations on a Theme: In the Words of Langston Hughes Opera Memphis, 216 Cooper St., Saturday, January 27, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, January 28, 8 p.m., $25 In the words of Langston Hughes, his poetry was about “workers, roustabouts, and singers … people up today and down tomorrow, working this week and fired the next, beaten and baffled, but determined not to be wholly beaten.” Is it any wonder that those words have inspired composers since their earliest publication? Handorf Company Artists Kayla Oderah and Marquita Richardson are joined by Opera Memphis stalwart Marcus King for an evening of music by a variety of composers, all inspired by or connected to Hughes and his work.

A pre-show talk will take place one hour before the performance. Purchase tickets at operamemphis.org.

TICKETS AVAILABLE ORPHEUM-MEMPHIS.COM/ONSTAGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Children Germantown Community Theatre, 3037 Forest Hill-Irene, opening Friday, January 26, 7:30 p.m., $16-$26 You know with a title like The Children this play is bound to be on the creepy side. Within its plot, two nuclear scientists in their 60s living in uncertain, apocalyptic times are visited by an old friend who shakes up their sense of normalcy. Exploring issues of accountability, guilt, and morality, this serio-comic piece will leave you wanting to discuss the plot and its implications with friends long after the cast takes their bow.

Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. A sensory-friendly performance with an ASL interpreter will be on Sunday, January 28th, at 2:30 p.m. An added performance is on Monday, January 29th, at 7:30 p.m.

Purchase tickets at gctcomeplay.org.

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

VARIOUS DAYS & TIMES January 25th - 31st

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MUSIC By Alex Greene

Lisa Nobumoto’s Timeless Sound The singer rallies Memphis jazz community in a new tribute to Nancy Wilson.

January 25-31, 2024

F

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or Lisa Nobumoto, jazz is more than just a genre.

It’s a mission, a way of life.

That much is obvious with last week’s release of A Tribute to Jazz Singer Nancy Wilson by Nobumoto and the Jazz Masters Orchestra, arguably one of the most ambitious jazz projects to come out of Memphis in decades, and a labor of love for the singer that’s been years in the making.

That’s partly due to the scale of the ensemble, a 20-piece orchestra that’s a veritable who’s who of jazz heavyweights working in Memphis today.

The album’s arrangements were done

by Rhodes College faculty member Carl Wolfe, co-founder of the Memphis Jazz Orchestra, and the group was conducted by Jack Cooper, director of jazz studies at the University of Memphis.

Pianist Eric Reed, the sole non-Memphian, is a lecturer and artist-in-residence at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and the remaining players are similarly well-schooled professionals. And the proof is in the listening, as the group brings Wolfe’s arrangements to life with fluidity and nuance. Sailing over that swinging foundation, of course, is Nobumoto’s voice.

A native of California with family roots in the Mid-South, Nobumoto relocated to Memphis some five years ago and promptly founded the Jazz Masters Series nonprofit to pursue her vision of fine jazz. That vision was honed over decades of performance on the west coast and touring the world.

Her late husband, George Gaffney, was Sarah Vaughan’s pianist, but Nobumoto worked with many greats in Los Angeles. “I worked with Teddy Edwards for 32 years,” she says, “and the other players in that band were Jimmy Cleveland, Gerald Wiggins, Al ‘Tootie’ Heath, Nolan Smith Jr., and Larry Gales.” In short, she’s worked with some of America’s greatest musicians.

During her L.A. days, none other than legendary jazz scribe and composer Leonard Feather wrote, “Lisa Nobumoto’s distinctive phrasing and timbre could earn her a significant role on the upcoming vocal scene,” and indeed, Music Connection magazine named her the top unsigned artist in Los Angeles at the time.

Bringing that experience to Mem-

ALBUM ART: DAVID LYNCH PHOTO: WILCOX PHOTOGRAPHY

Singer Lisa Nobumoto launched the Jazz Masters Series nonprofit.

phis, Nobumoto knew early on that she wanted to pay tribute to Nancy Wilson, a master of not only straightahead jazz but blues, soul, pop, and R&B as well. Beginning in the early ’60s, “The Girl with the HoneyCoated Voice,” as she was known, was a pop star of sorts, back when such a thing was imaginable for a jazz artist. “My mom played Nancy Wilson over and over and over again when I was a child,” says Nobumoto. “I knew every song.” Later, as she delved into Wilson’s work more deeply, Nobumoto found who Wilson had found her inspiration from: Little Jimmy Scott.

To those familiar with Scott’s soaringly high, somewhat androgynous delivery, that makes perfect sense.

“He’s my favorite male singer vocalist of all time,” notes Nobumoto. “I met him and heard him perform on several occasions, and he’s the only man I’ve ever seen start a show with a ballad — and then go on to a slower ballad. He could have you crying, where you can’t hold your tears back. And Nancy basically took his sound. I mean, she studied him a lot. They came from the same part of Ohio.”

Nobumoto has a gift for interpretation, negotiating this material with a grace akin to Dinah Washington and echoing Wilson’s conversational

“You stop thinking about money or fame and you’ll give up everything just to live this broke-ass lifestyle.”

style — but always with Nobumoto’s individual stamp. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is transformed into a steamy, confessional ballad, worlds away from Frankie Valli’s pop stomper.

Stevie Wonder’s “Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” is more up-tempo than either the original or Wilson’s 1966 version, taking it into boogaloo territory, yet with a relaxed delivery that brings wit and humor to the song. With Wolfe’s arrangements, the album’s timeless jazz classicism makes it hard to pin down chronologically: It could have been made any time in the last half century.

Recalling the two legendary singers who most inspired her is bittersweet for Nobumoto, who performed with so many jazz greats before moving to Memphis. “They’re just gone. Everybody I knew from that era, so to speak, has passed. But when you get to a certain age, you stop thinking about money or fame and you’ll give up everything just to live this broke-ass lifestyle. And I get to see things like this manifest. I really want the nonprofit to build into something that I can leave behind for someone else to carry on.”

AFTER DARK: Live Music Schedule January 25 - 31 Island 45

Laughing Matter, Macrophonics, Banales

BLIND BEAR SPEAKEASY

$12. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 p.m.

Tennessee Songwriter Week Showcase

Jesse Cook

HI TONE

HI TONE

An accomplished guitarist, producer and equally prolific filmmaker, Jesse Cook has evolved his talents to create experiences that delight audiences. $39.50. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m.

Lawrence Matthews

The Double D’s

THE HALLORAN CENTRE

THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

GHOST RIVER BREWING

Baunie & Soul

Sunday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

Benton Parker & The Royal Reds Sunday, Jan. 28, 3-6 p.m.

HUEY’S DOWNTOWN

Blind Mississippi Morris

Mayer Hawthorne Live DJ Set (with special guest Cadillac Zac) CENTRAL STATION HOTEL

BLUES CITY CAFE

HUEY’S MILLINGTON

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

BLUES CITY CAFE

Buddy Albert Nemenz

Thursday, Jan. 25, 1-5 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, 1-5 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-5 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 1-5 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7-11 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 1-5 p.m.

SILKY O’SULLIVAN’S

Chris Gales

Friday, Jan. 26, 4-7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 4-7 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 3:30-6:30 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

Computermane

Friday, Jan. 26, 10 p.m.

TIN ROOF

David Ingle One Man Piano Show Sunday, Jan. 28, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 28, 6-9 p.m.

Red Thomas

Friday, Jan. 26, 12:30-3:30 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, noon-3 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

Rodell McCord

Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 8 a.m.

NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM

Soul St. Mojo

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.

Vince Johnson

TIN ROOF

Dueling Pianos

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.; Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

SILKY O’SULLIVAN’S

Earl “The Pearl” Banks Friday, Jan. 26, 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 4:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7 p.m.

BLUES CITY CAFE

Eric Hughes

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

FreeWorld

Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

FreeWorld

Sunday, Jan. 28, 8 p.m.

BLUES CITY CAFE

Hippies and Cowboys

Friday, Jan. 26, 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 10:30 p.m.

TIN ROOF

The Settlers

Sunday, Jan. 28, 3-6 p.m.

HUEY’S POPLAR

Trace Bundy

PHOTO: COURTESY GPAC

Ranky Tanky

GROWLERS

Class of ’74, Part One: The Songs of Written In Their Soul with Henderson Thigpen, Songwriter

Join Mr. Thigpen and Jeff Kollath for a conversation and listening session just days before Written In Their Soul picks up the hardware in Los Angeles. Free. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Artina McCain (piano) & Martin McCain (trombone) Sunday, Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m.

Almost Famous

GRACE-ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Cruisin’ Heavy Acoustic Friday, Jan. 26, 6 p.m.

Area 51

Aquanet

THE COVE

HADLEY’S PUB

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM

Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Performed by the Memphis musicians in Landslide. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM

John Williams & the A440 Band

$10. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 p.m.

NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM

Sunday, Jan. 28, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

B-SIDE

Qemist, Model Zero, Cloudland Canyon

BAR DKDC

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

David Collins

Elmo & the Shades, Eddie Harrison

Memphis Reggae Nights feat. Doll McCoy and DJ Tanto Dubz

BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER AT ST. MARY’S SCHOOL

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

HIP HOP LOUNGE AND EVENT CENTER

GROWLERS

Rice Drewry Collective

OLD WHITTEN TAVERN

With special performances by Bankroll and Jaeti. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m.

$15. Sunday, Jan. 28, 9 p.m.

Coco & the Hitmen, Dr. Ew

Amber & Josh

Elephant’s Row: A Journey with Jakub Trunk and Friends

Memphis Icon DJ Zirk Birthday Show

MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB

Amber McCain Duo

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

$12. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 p.m.

Internationally-acclaimed guitar virtuoso Trace Bundy must be seen, not just heard.

Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 26, 10 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

The Minks

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

The Shotgunbillys

Sunday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Vinyl Happy Hour

With special guest DJs. Friday, Jan. 26, 3-5 p.m.

MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB

WiMM Presents Ariel Reign, Shara Matlock Tuesday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m.

B-SIDE

Me Like Bees

Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 6 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7 p.m.

DJ Mickey Perez DJ Stringbean

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Shelley Brown/Lee Holliday

TIN ROOF

CENTRAL STATION HOTEL

The mother of all laser-light shows features TWO of the most iconic albums of all time.

Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.

The Deb Jam Band

CENTRAL BBQ

HUEY’S MIDTOWN

RAILGARTEN

Laser Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon & The Wall

TIN ROOF

Saturday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 28, 3-6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

RUM BOOGIE CAFE

BLUES CITY CAFE

Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m.

Marcella Simien and Her Lovers

Saturday, Jan. 27, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

DJ Edwin Adams DJ Marcjayy

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Mule Man

SILKY O’SULLIVAN’S

CENTRAL STATION HOTEL

A collection of beautiful English chamber music primarily from the beginning of the 20th century by Vaughan-Williams and other period composers Free. Sunday, Jan. 28, 3-4 p.m.

Medium Walter

The Rockin’ 88s

Friday, Jan. 26, 9 p.m.

Luna Nova: Concert of English Chamber Music

Free. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

Brad Birkedahl Band

The multi-hyphenated artist Lawrence Matthews will perform for the first time since retiring his former stage name Don Lifted. $10. Friday, Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 1 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

Aubrey McCrady Band & Friends Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 p.m.

B-SIDE

Bluff City Vice S2PID Album Release with Big Clown and Little Baby Tendencies $15. Friday, Jan. 26, 10 p.m.

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac Discover the music of Fleetwood Mac under the gentle glow of candlelight. $38.41.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 8:45-10:45 p.m.

OVERTON CHAPEL

Charm School (Louisville) with J.Robot, The Heavy Pour, Opossums

21+. $10. Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 p.m.

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Monday, Jan. 29, 2 p.m.

David Collins

BAR DKDC

Saturday, Jan. 27, 5 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Rick Camp and the Suburban Trunk Monkeys Sunday, Jan. 28, 3 p.m.

Chase Matthew

One of Nashville’s most promising newcomers, Chase Matthew, is taking the stage at Gold Strike Casino Resort Tunica. $19.50. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

GOLD STRIKE CASINO

Duane Cleveland Band Sunday, Jan. 28, 6-9 p.m.

HUEY’S OLIVE BRANCH

El Ced & Groove Nation Sunday, Jan. 28, 6-9 p.m.

HUEY’S SOUTHWIND

Harmony @ The Haven: Acoustic Jam Series

Play popular songs from the 1950s to today, suggested by library patrons like you. Bring your own instrument or use a provided guitar, bass, Cajun, or other noise maker. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 5-7 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

WHITEHAVEN BRANCH LIBRARY

Shamefinger, Pressed, Heels, The Writer, The Signal

Jad Tariq Band

Sunday, Jan. 28, 6-9 p.m.

HUEY’S SOUTHAVEN

$10. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

HI TONE

Shamothy, Ash Leon, Tayy the Pro, Tyler Six

$10. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

Chapel Hart

Shumwvy, Ben Ricketts, Screamer, Motchat, The Stupid Reasons

Composed of sisters Danica and Devynn Hart and cousin Trea Swindle, Chapel Hart blends country and gospel. $35. Friday, Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m.

B-SIDE

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

BARTLETT PERFORMING ARTS AND CONFERENCE CENTER

Devil Train

Strictly Jazz: The Music of George Duke

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 9:30 p.m.

B-SIDE

Devil Train

Thursday, Jan. 25, 9:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 9:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m.

RAILGARTEN

JD Westmoreland Band Monday, Jan. 29, 10:30 p.m.

B-SIDE

HI TONE

$10. Sunday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

George Duke forever changed the landscape of jazz, R&B, funk, pop, and classical music. $20/advance, $25/at the door.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m.

Ranky Tanky with very special guest Ms. Lisa Fischer

$30. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8-9:30 p.m.

GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Joe Restivo 4

THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS

Richard Wilson

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Swingtime Explosion Big Band

JACKIE MAE’S PLACE

Sunday, Jan. 28, 11 a.m.

Joybomb, Shorty and the Grooves, Sick Ride, Thompson Springs Friday, Jan. 26, 9:30 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 29, 6 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Ted & the MNC

B-SIDE

$10. Saturday, Jan. 27, 3 p.m.

Kid Fears, The Stupid Reasons, Macrophonics

B-SIDE

$10. Monday, Jan. 29, 8 p.m.

HI TONE

Friday, Jan. 26, 12:30 p.m.

St. Olaf Choir in Concert

The St. Olaf Choir, conducted

by Anton Armstrong, will perform. $35/general admission, $10/students. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

GERMANTOWN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Sunday, Jan. 28, 2:30-6:30 p.m.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Acoustic Sunday with Mighty Miss, Merit Koch

Free. Friday, Jan. 26, 9 p.m.

19

CALENDAR of EVENTS:

Send the date, time, place, cost, info, phone number, a brief description, and photos — two weeks in advance — to calendar@memphisflyer.com.

January 25 - 31

ART AND SPECIAL EXHIBITS

“A Passionate Vision”

Enjoy colorful photographs of Collierville captured by local artist Adarryll Jackson Sr. Through March 2.

MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY

“Breaking the Rules: Paul Wonner and Theophilus Brown”

“Breaking the Rules” includes 75 paintings, watercolors, and drawings spanning the entirety of the artists’ careers.

Sunday, Jan. 28-Mar. 31.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

“China Blues: The World of Blue and White Ceramics” The collection includes a range of objects from the Ming and Qing dynasties in a wide array of materials, including beautifully carved jades, paintings, textiles, and ceramics. Through May 31.

MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART

“Everyday People: Snapshots of The Black Experience” A photography exhibition showcasing Memphis artist Eric Echols’ photo collection of 20th-century African Americans. Through July 14.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

“For the Love of Art: Three Different Perspectives”

Exhibition with work by Marion Malone, Jacqueline Miller Foshee, and Anna Parker. Through Jan. 31.

MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN

“Ghetto Girls Deserve Good Things”

Zaire Love’s ode to the originators of carefree expressive style and culture that influences contemporary culture.

Through March 1.

BEVERLY + SAM ROSS GALLERY

January 25-31, 2024

“Hued”

El Paso-based artist Rachelle Thiewes creates jewelry that empowers its wearer through her careful use of rhythmic repetition, architectural forms, and vibrant auto paint.

Through Jan. 28.

METAL MUSEUM

“It’s a Memphis Thang”

Featuring new works by Anna Kelly and Calvin Farrar.

Through March 7.

BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER AT ST. MARY’S SCHOOL

“Learning Through the Language of Art”

Exhibition presented by Literacy Mid-South and Arkwings, featuring work by Mattie Ward, Ashely Davis, and April Foxx. Through March 27.

PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE

“Mirrors”

20

In “Mirrors,” a presentation of seven wall sculptures, Dylan Spaysky’s simple holographic

DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS WILL APPEAR IN THE FLYER’S ONLINE CALENDAR ONLY. FOR COMPREHENSIVE EVENT LISTINGS, SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT EVENTS.MEMPHISFLYER.COM/CAL.

manipulations of reflection, transparency, and light turn into a public intro-spectacle.

Through March 9.

Short Story Circle

TOPS GALLERY: MADISON AVENUE PARK

Zaire Love’s “Ghetto Girls Deserve Good Things” exhibition stay at CBU has been extended through March 1st.

“New Paintings”

Presenting new paintings by Veda Reed to celebrate the artist’s 90th birthday. This captivating exploration of the artist’s career is a combination of studies and large-scale paintings. Through Feb. 3.

Calling ALL lovers of reading, short stories, coffee, and pastries. Join Memphis Public Library every fourth Friday for a short story book club. This month’s reading: “Haunted” by Walter Mosley. Friday, Jan. 26, 11 a.m.-noon.

MUGGIN COFFEEHOUSE

CLASS / WORKSHOP

A Murder Mystery Party With a Dose of Science (Professor Kim Brien)

DAVID LUSK GALLERY

“New Works by Jose Valverde”

The Meeman Center for Lifelong Learning at Rhodes College offers non-credit continuing education courses for anyone curious and excited to learn. All are welcome! $70.

Monday, Jan. 29, 5:30-7 p.m.

Valverde, an artist and a volunteer with Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group, will kick off the 2024 art schedule at Church Health with his vibrant and bold paintings.

Through Feb. 28.

CHURCH HEALTH

DOROTHY C. KING HALL AT RHODES COLLEGE

Open House & Discover Islam Exhibit

Digital Photography “101” Workshop

Presentation, Q&A, authentic food, gift bags, walk-in exhibit. Sunday, Jan. 28, 1 p.m.

Learn photography from a professional photographer in this hands-on workshop.

Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8:30 a.m.-noon.

MEMPHIS ISLAMIC CENTER (MIC)

“Remy Miller and Joe Morzuch: Marking Time”

COLLIERVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Discover Workshop

Discover the magic of photography in a beginner-friendly class. Saturday, Jan. 27, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

The joint exhibition places two distinct bodies of work into counterpoint.Through April 14.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE

“School of Ool: Whose Views Ooze Muse”

Enneagram Workshop

An exhibition of new work by multimedia artist Coe Lapossy, who revisits artifacts of queerness wedged within a seemingly straight world.

Friday, Jan. 26-March 22.

“Velvet Sternum”

CLOUGH-HANSON GALLERY

SHEET CAKE

“Shelby Canopy: Our Shared Connection”

Discover Shelby County’s green spaces and importance of trees through an immersive public art experience featuring two temporary artworks.

Through April 19.

8040 WOLF RIVER BLVD.

“Southern Railway”

A new presentation of work from Joel Parsons and Clare Torina will feature drawings, enamels, paintings, and installation. Through March 2.

MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN

CLOUGH-HANSON GALLERY

ART HAPPENINGS

The Business of Creativity: Burnout for Creatives

Exhibition by Wanda Winsett.

Through Jan. 31.

Memphis Best of 2024 Vendor Market

MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY

Presentations by local artists, scholars, and Dixon staff sharing their knowledge on a variety of topics. Wednesday, Jan. 31, noon-1 p.m.

MEMPHIS MADE BREWING COMPANY

Munch and Learn

TOPS GALLERY

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

“To Have and To Hold: Valentines from the Victorian Era”

Opening Lecture: Curator Scott A. Shields, PhD, on “Breaking the Rules”

“To Have and To Hold” showcases and celebrates the artistry of paper love tokens, highlighting technologies such as chromolithography, embossing, and paper lace.

Sunday, Jan. 28-March 31.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

“School of Ool: Whose Views Ooze Muse” Opening Reception

“Visual Paradoxes/Dare Everything”

Discover the national history behind the Southern Railway Company, its lasting influence on the local community, and a creative play area featuring hands-on train activities for young visitors. Through April 20.

Exhibition of work by James Inscho. Through March 9.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

An exhibition of new work by multimedia artist Coe Lapossy, who revisits artifacts of queerness wedged within a seemingly straight world.

Friday, Jan. 26, 5-7 p.m.

Shop some of the best vendors from throughout the area. The market will feature jewelry, decor, candles, clothing, accessories, baked goods, and more.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-6 p.m.

“three left, one right”

Jan. 28, 2 p.m.

In this enlightening talk, Scott Shields unpacks the Paul Wonner’s and William “Theophilus” Brown’s interest in the figure, the duo’s role in the Bay Area Figurative movement, and the work that followed. Sunday,

Discover strategies to combat burnout and nourish your creative spirit. In this workshop, you’ll explore practical techniques to regain motivation, restore balance, and preserve your artistic fire. $17.85.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 6:30-8 p.m.

ARROW CREATIVE

Tingey Painting with Parkinsons Program (TINCAN™) Winter Cohort

The Tingey Painting with Parkinsons Program is an art therapy program that supports people living with Parkinson’s.

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m.noon.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

“Velvet Sternum” Opening Reception

A new presentation of work from Joel Parsons and Clare Torina will feature drawings, enamels, paintings, and

installation. Saturday, Jan. 27, 5-7:30 p.m.

SHEET CAKE

BOOK EVENTS

David Netto Decorative Arts Trust, Reception & Talk

A book signing and lecture with David Netto, interior designer and author. Free. Thursday, Jan. 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART

January Book Club: King: A Life

Discuss Jonathan Eig’s vividly written and exhaustively researched King: A Life, the first major biography in decades about civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 1 p.m.

MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY

Meet the Author: Avery Cunningham

Novel welcomes Avery Cunningham in conversation with Tara Stringfellow to celebrate the release of The Mayor of Maxwell Street. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 6 p.m.

NOVEL

Meet the Author: Brad Taylor

Novel welcomes Brad Taylor in conversation with Mark Greaney to celebrate the release of Dead Man’s Hand.

Sunday, Jan. 28, 2 p.m.

NOVEL

Whether you’re looking to gain insight into your own motivations or simply interested in understanding human behavior on a deeper level, this workshop is the perfect opportunity. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 3 p.m.

OOTHOON’S

Food, Gender, and Culture (Professor Sarah Ifft Decker)

The Meeman Center for Lifelong Learning at Rhodes College offers non-credit continuing education courses for anyone curious and excited to learn. All are welcome! $140/ Food, Gender, and Culture (full series), $35/Food, Law, and Religious Identity (Jan. 31, single session), $35/Food, Sex, and Temptation (Feb. 7, single session), $35/Gender, Food, and Fasting (Feb. 21, single session), $35/Food, Colonization, and Slavery (Feb. 28, single session).

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 5:30-7 p.m.

DOROTHY C. KING HALL AT RHODES COLLEGE

Hollywood Feed University Presents Free, Online Course on Bringing a New Pet Home: Basic Training

Join trainer Jacque Bonéy as he sets the tone for bringing a new pet into your home with effective communication techniques, creating successful schedules, and unpacking myths around socialization. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

ONLINE

C A L E N DA R: JA N UA RY 2 5 - 3 1 Lightroom Classic Processing Made Easy

James Inscho presents “three left, one right” at Tops Gallery. Pictured here is burn out (2023, Acrylic gouache on panel, 9.25 x 10.5 inches).

Learn how to edit your images like a pro. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-4:30 p.m.

COLLIERVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Mastering the Art of Storytelling with Podcasting

Comedy Open Mic

Hosted by John MIller. $10.

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m.

This workshop equips participants with the knowledge and skills to excel in narrative podcasting. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 5-7 p.m.

Don’t Tell Comedy brings live comedy experiences to cities across the nation, showcasing the best of the next generation of stand up comedians through secret pop-up shows in unique locations. Saturday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m.

You will complete a small project. All fabric, thread, patterns, and hardware will be provided. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 1 p.m.

BARDOG TAVERN

CHEROKEE LIBRARY

URBAN EARTH GARDENS, NURSERY & MARKET

The Business of Creativity: Social Media Marketing

Join Arrow Creative for its fourth installment of its creative entrepreneur series. $15.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 6:30-8 p.m.

ARROW CREATIVE

RUMBA ROOM

Open Mic Night Hosted

by Tiffany Harmon Vases and Vinos with Sarah Stobbe

Sip and make ceramics! This workshop will focus on handbuilding techniques and is going to be a blast. Don’t miss out. $45. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Wind down your weekend with music, laughter, drinks, and friends. Sunday, Jan. 28, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

CHUCKLES COMEDY HOUSE

This underground comedy show, hosted by Tylon Monger, boasts a diverse and interesting lineup each week that cracks smiles, shakes heads, and causes uproarious laughter. $15. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

Comedian Donnie Sengstack Headlines at High Cotton Brewing

ARROW CREATIVE

COMEDY

Cocoa Brown

to thought-provoking humor. $22-$67. Thursday, Jan. 25, 8 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Jan. 26, 10 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 8 p.m.

Known for her lead role in the film Tyler Perry’s The Single Mom’s Club and For Better or Worse on OWN network, the hilarious comedian/actress Cocoa Brown treats audiences

Comedian Donnie Sengstack (NY Comedy Festival, Nateland Presents, SF Sketchfest) headlines a fun night of standup comedy at High Cotton. $10/Discounted Online Ticket.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

BLACK LODGE

Saturday Night Showcase

MEMPHIS CLOVER CLUB

HIGH COTTON BREWING CO.

students from first grade to 12th. Saturday, Jan. 27, 11 a.m.

CAZATEATRO OFFICE

Mini Masters (ages 2-4) Introduce your little ones to the arts and nature with crafts, movement, and more. $8. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 10:3011:15 a.m.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

Pop Up Ranger Program

COMMUNITY

Don’t Tell Comedy

Sewing Class

Bring a friend or treat yourself to a morning of hand- on learning with master gardener and terrarium enthusiast Sheryl Virgilio. $54.73. Saturday, Jan. 27, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Tootie Twotimes hosts this show of twists. The first half of the show, poets and comedians show you what it would be like if they traded places.

The second half, they do what they do best. $15. Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.

HI TONE

COSSITT LIBRARY

Terrarium Workshop with Sheryl Virgilio

Trading Places: Poets & Comedians

Invasive Species Removal

Join an Invasive Plant Specialist in a volunteer project at Overton Park.

Dress appropriately and wear closed-toed shoes. Bring work gloves and hydration.

Meeting Location: Near East Parkway Pavilion. Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-3 p.m.

OVERTON PARK

Do you know how long it takes for your trash to decompose? Drop by and test your knowledge at Rainbow Lake Old Forest Gateway Arch. 7+.

Sunday, Jan. 28, 2-3 p.m.

OVERTON PARK

Story Time

Enjoy stories, songs, art activities, and creative play that connect with Collierville history. Friday, Jan. 26, 10:30 a.m.

DANCE

MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY

Line Dancing with Q

Story Time at Novel

Line dancing lessons, Tuesdays with “Q.” 21+. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 6-9 p.m.

Recommended for children up to 5 years, Story Time at Novel includes songs and stories, featuring brand-new books in addition to well-loved favorites. Saturday, Jan. 27, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 10:30 a.m.

DRU’S PLACE

FAMILY

Art Expression Open House/Expresion Artistica

NOVEL

Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group, in collaboration with Ballet Memphis, presents an eight-week workshop for

continued on page 22

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 26

JANUARY 29

Don’t miss John Konchar and your Memphis Grizzlies take on the Orlando Magic at 7PM on Faith & Family Night.

Xavier Tillman Sr. and your Memphis Grizzlies take on the Sacramento Kings at 7PM on Mentoring Night. Grizzlies Mentor Shirts to the first 3,000 fans.

MAGIC VS GRIZZLIES

FIND TICKETS NOW!

KINGS VS GRIZZLIES

FEBRUARY 10

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

PANTERA

FOR THE FANS. FOR THE BROTHERS. FOR LEGACY. Get your tickets now to see Pantera with special guests Lamb of God and Nest.

WWE SMACKDOWN

Find tickets to see your favorite wrestling superstars when WWE: Friday Night Smackdown comes to FedExForum.

FedExForum Box Office | ticketmaster.com | fedexforum.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

901.726.5725 tnnonprofits.org

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

DO GOOD. BETTER.

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C A L E N DA R: JA N UA RY 2 5 - 3 1 Youth Workshop: Drawing From Life (ages 10-13)

Participants in this workshop will get an introduction to drawing the human figure from life in dramatic poses. $15/nonmembers, $10/ members. Saturday, Jan. 27, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

FILM

Dinner & A Double Feature Historical Horrors: The Witch & The Lighthouse Experience these unforgettable, creepy, claustrophobic tales set in the gothic past, as you are served a special five-course meal specifically designed for the event. 18+. $35/ either dinner and movie, $60/both dinners amd movies. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 6 p.m.

BLACK LODGE

I Read That Movie: Where the Crawdads Sing

Free refreshments, and a discussion about the film and the book after the screening. Everyone is welcome to attend, even if you haven’t read the book. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m.

BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY

Met Opera 2023: Carmen

Saturday, Jan. 27, 11:55 a.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m.

This enrapturing and heartfelt documentary takes a close look at the life and career of this American original. $7/community, $5/member. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 7 p.m.

FOOD AND DRINK

Saturday Morning Cartoons and Games

Crosstown Crawl: January

29 Tavern offerings 30 Fire sale?

5 Drawing that nobody wants

31 Glass with thick-rimmed glasses

15 Stirs

32 Worked hard

16 Common type of TV news broadcast

33 Purina product 37 Beach ___

17 Do some day jobs

38 Cocktail with vodka, triple sec and lime juice

18 Dessert that’s chilled overnight

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January 25-31, 2024

41 Hot cocoa mix 19 “___ is gained as brand much by good works as by evil”: 42 What spirits can do Machiavelli 43 Aid for a start-up 21 Engaged business 22 Flashy dance 44 Michael maneuver Jackson’s “Don’t 23 Informal greeting Stop ___ You 24 March 15, e.g.

Get Enough”

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25 Spots for luggage 26 Game-changing invention?

CROSSTOWN BREWING COMPANY

BLACK LODGE

January World of Wine Tasting Event

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - Best Episodes Brunch

BLACK LODGE

Sample and learn about six different wines from around the world. Enjoy chef-prepared treats from grazing table as experts share their knowledge about the wines from California, Chile, France, Italy, South Africa and New Zealand. $59. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m.

The Vous

ERLING JENSEN SMALL BITES & TOPGOLF SWING SUITES

Enjoy some of the best episodes ever from this landmark series, plus brunch. Sunday, Jan. 28, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Vous reveals why the renowned, familyowned barbecue restaurant has been so successful for 75 years — and counting. Friday, Jan. 26-Feb. 1.

Robert Burns Night

Celebrate the life and work of the great bard.

Traditional Scottish attire encouraged. $125.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

MALCO PARADISO CINEMA GRILL & IMAX

BOG & BARLEY

45 Some tiebreakers, for short 46 Toe woe

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE C O H E R E N T E K G T E A A P O L O G I A Z E R O I N G N E W Y O R K S A R E A C O D E A N I S E I P A N I C D E E D T T O P L U C A S A D M I T A L L A N R O S E A S O F D E M O S N I X L I N C O L N S B I R T H D A Y O D D N I E C E M E M O K I E V T E H E E W O M B S I D L E R O S I S S I R E R E C T O S I S N A P H 2 O S B O I L I N G P O I N T A 1 S A U C E S E M I N U D E W 2 S S A D T R A N S M I T

47 Fishing need, maybe 50 In excess, in slang 53 What lovers’ hearts do 54 Event that catches someone by surprise?

55 Things pulled out of seams 56 Where Delaware and Minnesota have farmers 57 Some loaves

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Led by Milan Vigil, this Chinese martial art promotes relaxation, improves balance, and provides no-impact aerobic benefits. Ages 16 and older. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 10:3011:30 a.m.

THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

Wednesday Winter Walks

Join OPC for a casual stroll around the Old Forest. No agenda, just a chance to meet new people and get a walk in. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 4 p.m.

Matt Petty, musician, reiki master and sound therapist, will lead a unique experience of sound and plants. $20. Monday, Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m.

THE BROOM CLOSET

Yoga

Come one, come all for the poetry battle of the year: Memphis vs. St. Louis. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 a.m.

BUTTERIFIC BAKERY & CAFE

Spontaneous Stories. Instant Impact. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

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PUZZLE BY ORI BRIAN

27 Italian time period 28 College from which Steve Jobs dropped out 29 Virtuoso 31 Purina competitor 33 Brother of Seth, in the Bible 34 Last-ditch effort 35 Soda can meas.

36 ___ Matthews, either of an N.B.A. fatherand-son duo

Taijiquan with Milan Vigil

Memphis Matters

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THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

Battle of the Borders

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Looking for something relaxing to do to clear your mind and improve your overall health?

Come to the Dixon for free meditation sessions every Friday. Friday, Jan. 26, noon12:45 p.m.

PERFORMING ARTS

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THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

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THE BROOM CLOSET

Strengthen your yoga practice and enjoy the health benefits of light exercise with yoga instructors Laura Gray McCann. Free. Thursday, Jan. 25, 6-6:45 p.m.

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A meditative sound experience using crystal singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and multiple instruments. $20. Thursday, Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m.

Vibes from the Vines: The Sentient Sound of Plants

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DOWN 1 Difficult thing to give a cat 2 Entrepreneur’s start 3 Wee folklore hero 4 Place for hot shots 5 Declined 6 Minute Maid brand 7 As a whole 8 Sales lure 9 Recurrent theme 10 Scandalous selfie, maybe 11 Cinemax competitor 12 One helping to set the stage 13 Doctor with a well-known diet 14 Is overcome with joy, say 20 Conjunctivitis treatment 24 Twosome 25 Netflix show inspired by “The Twilight Zone” 26 Kubrick film villain

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A ceremony to release anything that no longer serves a purpose in our lives. Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

OVERTON PARK

Edited by Will Shortz 1

Full Moon Meditation

Full Moon Sound Bath

A good old-fashioned bar crawl across the Crosstown area: Crosstown Brewing (7-8 p.m.), Art Bar (8-9 p.m.), Flipside (9-10 p.m.), and Black Lodge (10-1 a.m.). Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

The lodge offers an ever-changing block of ’80s and ’90s cartoons, retro vintage kids commercials, video and board games, and of course, a variety of cereals and breakfast dishes. Saturday, Jan. 27, 11 a.m.-noon.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

OOTHOON’S

MEMPHIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

Crossword 1 Dentist’s instruction

MULTIPLE MALCO THEATRES

Wizard Oz 85th Anniversary The NewThe York TimesofSyndication Sales Corporation Young Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto are 620 swept Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 away by a tornado from their Kansas For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Friday, March 8, 2019

MULTIPLE MALCO THEATRES

ACROSS

farm to the magical Land of Oz, and embark on a quest with three new friends to see the Wizard, who can return her to her home and fulfill the others’ wishes. Sunday, Jan. 28, 1 p.m.; Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.

Remembering Gene Wilder: Morris and Mollye Fogelman International Jewish Film Festival

38 Annual holiday first celebrated in 1966 39 Family-style Chinese dish 40 Neighborhood with Plaza de la Raza and the Latino Walk of Fame 41 1957 Jimmy Dorsey standard 42 Intro courses?

43 Big-box store with the slogan “Never stop improving”

46 Best friend of Jess on Fox’s “New Girl” 47 Bean holders 48 Drink that can cause brain freeze 49 Thomas Hardy title heroine 51 #1, e.g.

52 Big Angolan export

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Monday Night Poetry Set by Perform901

An immersive celebration of the written word, where the beauty of language comes alive.

Monday, Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m.

HI TONE

Rainbow Rumble REMIX part 3

Moth Moth Moth Presents a Champion’s Showcase, co-hosted by Season 1 Champion Shiklina! Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m.

BLACK LODGE

Rising Stars Revue “Broadway Babies” Featuring some seriously talented Broadway Babies. Sunday, Jan. 28, 6 p.m.

DRU’S PLACE

Shen Yun

You will be taken on a journey to magnificent eras in Chinese history, as well as to periods from China’s recent past. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 2 p.m.

CANNON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The 34th Annual International Conference and Festival of Blacks In Dance in partnership with Collage Dance Collective

A four-day dance experience thats continues its legacy as the broadest international gathering of Black dance professionals. Through Jan. 28.

RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER

C A L E N DA R: JA N UA RY 2 5 - 3 1

MID-SOUTH HEART BALL

OPERA MEMPHIS

SPECIAL EVENTS

Australia Day Celebration

Saddle up and come celebrate Australia Day. There’ll be Australian trivia and music, as well as a Vegemite tasting and some meat-related giveaways and other prizes. Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.

MEMPHIS MADE BREWING COMPANY

Lamplighter Market Day

Local makers and collectors come together to give you an unforgettable market experience at the historic lamplighter Lounge Sunday, Jan. 28, 2-6 p.m.

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

Mardi Gras XXI: Dancing Through the Decades

Celebrate the Mystic Krewe of Pegasus’ 21st year supporting the Memphis LGBTQIA+ community. Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.

MINGLEWOOD HALL

Memphis Armored Fight Club

Hear ye, hear ye, come one, come all! Memphis Armored Fight Club returns to Lodge!

Saturday, Jan. 27, 6-9:30 p.m.

BLACK LODGE

Porter-Leath Career Fair

The organization is actively recruiting infant and preschool teachers, full- and part-time teachers, parent educators, residential monitors and more. Thursday, Jan. 25, 3-6 p.m.

PORTER-LEATH EARLY CHILDHOOD SUPPORT CENTER

Coe Lapossy’s show at the Clough-Hanson Gallery at Rhodes College opens on Friday, January 26th.

Center

Winter workshops, seed swap, community partner expo, plant sale, seed walk, and more. Free. Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

LICHTERMAN NATURE CENTER

White Lies T-Shirt Party

Embrace the night of playful deception and self-expression. Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.

JERRY LEE LEWIS’ CAFE & HONKY TONK

Who Dun It? Forensic Murder Mystery Night

Have fun learning basic forensic principles while solving a murder mystery. Friday, Jan. 26, 6 p.m.

BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY

SPORTS

Bump N Grind Wrestling

A night of great matches to watch, plus you can upgrade your tickets to meet AEW Star Brian Cage and Impact Star “Cowboy” James Storm.

Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Hollyhood Haley J is coming to Memphis Wrestling

OVW Wrestlers on Netflix star Hollyhood Haley J is coming to Memphis Wrestling. Plus, former WWE superstar James Ellsworth returns. Sunday, Jan. 28, 1:454:30 p.m.

MEMPHIS WRESTLING WRESTLECENTER

Memphis State Throwback Game

Memphis Basketball is throwing it back to Penny Hardaway, Larry Finch, Keith Lee, and Elliot Perry with the Memphis State throwback game. $15. Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

FEDEXFORUM

The Birds & The Seeds at Lichterman Nature

FEDEXFORUM

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Orlando Magic Friday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m.

FEDEXFORUM

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Sacramento Kings Monday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.

FEDEXFORUM

THEATER

CELEBRATING THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’S CENTENNIAL

Saturday, February 24th Renasant Convention Center 6:00pm ENTERTAINMENT BY G3:THE GARRY GOIN GROUP

A Raisin in the Sun

A Chicago South Side black family struggles with decisions that are meant to improve their station. Through Feb. 4.

BLACK TIE OPTIONAL

visit heart.org/midsouthhb for additional event details.

THEATRE MEMPHIS

HEART OF MEMPHIS & HEART BALL LEADERSHIP

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

BRYAN JORDAN

Witness the wonder of Charlie’s journey through Willy Wonka’s factory in this fantastical musical. Through Feb. 18.

Chairman

BRIAN BENDERSKY CHARLES BURKETT JOHN DANIEL DR. STEVEN GUBIN DOUG CGOWEN DAVID MCKINNEY JOHNNY PITTS GARY SHORB

PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE

Greater Illinois

One of the 2022 NewWorks@ TheWorks Playwriting Competition Winners, Greater Illinois tackles themes of intersectionality and who benefits from an oppressive regime. Through Jan. 28.

JOHN & LESLIE DANIEL LIVING HEART AWARD HONORING:

FREDERICK W. SMITH

THEATREWORKS

The Children

Two nuclear scientists in their 60s living in uncertain times are visited by an old friend who shakes up their sense of normalcy. Through Feb. 4.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS SECOND CENTURY SUPPORTER

GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY THEATRE SIGNATURE SUPPORTER

TOURS

Haunted Pub Crawl

DIAMOND SUPPORTERS

Visit three local bars for ghost stories, dark history, and tales of the paranormal. Friday, Jan. 26, 7:30-10 p.m.

Michael & Marian Burns GOLD SUPPORTERS

THE BROOM CLOSET

The Original Memphis Brew Bus

The Memphis Brew Bus is a Saturday afternoon trip into the amazing Memphis craft brewing scene. Visit three local breweries for tours, talks with the brewers, and of course beer. $59. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2-5:30 p.m.

SILVER SUPPORTERS

Peter & Judy Felsenthal

Johnny & Kim Pitts

JOHN & LESLIE DANIEL Chuck & Susan Smith LIVING H E A R T A W A The R DMartin Family Foundation HONORING:

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Burkett

Mark & Melinda George

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Handorf Company Artists Kayla Oderah and Marquita Richardson are joined by Opera Memphis stalwart Marcus King for an evening of music by a variety of composers, all inspired by or connected to Hughes.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 28, 3 p.m.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

of Langston Hughes

THE BROOM CLOSET

Memphis vs. Rice

Wednesday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

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S P O R T S B y Fr a n k M u r t a u g h

BOOKS By Alex Greene

Talented Teasers?

It Takes a Village

Having cracked the Top 10, the Memphis Tigers crumbled.

Teenage Tupelo celebrates a film and the scene that made it possible.

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January 25-31, 2024

re the Memphis Tigers a legitimate Top-10 team or Final Four contenders? Or are they the biggest teasers east of the Dallas Cowboys? Nineteen games into the 2023-24 season, it seems the answer to one of these questions will ultimately be in the affirmative.

Sunday’s loss at Tulane — the Green Wave’s first upset of a Top-25 team since the Clinton presidency — changed the Tigers’ season, and compounded last Thursday’s loss at home to USF. A team that started the week undefeated in a less-than-respected American Athletic Conference now has a two-game losing streak and, worse, merely 12 regularseason games left to improve its resume for those who hand out seeds for the NCAA tournament. Memphis, you might note, has never reached the Sweet 16 seeded lower than sixth.

Last Thursday night at FedExForum could have been an anomalous nadir.

With the arena virtually empty — the university publicly urged fans to stay home and off the icy roads — Memphis looked all of its number-10 ranking in taking a 20-point lead into the second half. Then they seemed to hit black ice as a unit and allowed USF to storm back, tie the game with less than a minute to play, and win the contest on a Kasean Pryor free throw with five seconds to play. (There’s brutal irony in a team from South Florida knocking off the Tigers while fans were home dripping their faucets.) The Tigers’ lategame hero Jahvon Quinerly committed a turnover in the game’s closing seconds and missed a desperation threepoint attempt at the buzzer. If empty seats could boo, they would have.

The loss was especially bizarre, as it came four days after Memphis looked like their predecessors from 2008 or 1985, both Final Four years. The Tigers scored 112 points in beating Wichita State, the most on the road for this program in 69 years. Against USF, they couldn’t crack 80. The Tigers drained 19 three-pointers in overwhelming the Shockers, a program record. Against the Bulls, they missed 22 of their 28 shots from long range. Memphis lost despite outscoring USF 42-18 in the paint and 21-2(!) on fast breaks. The numbers don’t make sense, but the loss is permanent and will cost Memphis its spot in that hallowed Top 10.

As long as Quinerly and David Jones remain healthy, the Tigers will enter 24 March with an arsenal most teams — “power conference” or otherwise

— would envy. Jones (21.7 points per game) is the leading candidate for AAC Player of the Year. Right behind him may well be Quinerly (14.0 points, 4.7 assists). Were it not for Quinerly’s game-winning treys against Tulsa and SMU, the Tigers might have a losing record in league play. Jones took a three-point shot that could have won

PHOTO: WES HALE

Penny Hardaway Sunday’s game at Tulane. He missed, as stars sometimes do. How will the Tigers process two straight gut punches as they wait a week before returning to play (Sunday at UAB)?

Following the Tigers’ narrow escape against SMU on January 7th, Hardaway emphasized the joy he took in seeing his team improve while winning.

Beats the “learn from our losses” track every day of the week. And the Tigers are certainly better for their recent 10-game winning streak. But Hardaway also suggested this group of veteran transfers may actually be too confident, that they feel like any obstacle or deficit can be overcome, and this can sometimes compromise group effort. A home loss to a team with a NET rating of 146, you gotta believe, might help reduce that overconfidence intangible.

Another intangible to track with these Tigers: team chemistry. Following the USF loss, Hardaway suggested internal strife was impacting who he could put on the floor and when. If this is the case (more than two months into the season), the likelihood of a full recovery — let alone a Final Four run — seems remote. The sixth-year coach may have the greatest challenge of his career on his hands: Getting the most out of a talented team before the players on that team sabotage the mission.

That would be a cruel tease, indeed.

O

ver the past 30 years, Memphis comic book artist, sculptor, and filmmaker Mike McCarthy has taken self-mythologizing to a level few others have matched, often weaving elements of his compelling personal history into fantastic scenarios drawn from the B movies, comics, and pop icons of his youth. That’s especially true of what’s arguably McCarthy’s greatest work, the film Teenage Tupelo, released in 1995 by Something Weird Video.

Ostensibly telling the tale of a young, buxom single mother’s odyssey through Tupelo’s underground, circa 1962, as she comes to terms with an unwanted pregnancy, it’s chiefly an homage to the low-budget flicks (think Roger Corman or Russ Meyer) that captivated young McCarthy as he grew up in Elvis Presley’s hometown, echoing those films’ visceral impact via Darin Ipema’s pitch-perfect, mostly black-and-white cinematography and a sizzling soundtrack by surf rockcrime jazz kings Impala.

The film became a cult favorite in the ’90s, championing the burgeoning garage aesthetic of that era. No prior knowledge of McCarthy’s personal history was needed to savor the raw shock of the film’s visuals and sounds. Its staying power was confirmed in 2020 when Portugal’s Chaputa Records revived Impala’s soundtrack on vinyl, then again last May when the film was remastered and released on Blu-ray. But if the latter’s bonus director’s commentary hinted at the many layers of influences behind the film, that was nothing compared to what came next: a coffee table tome which publisher Fantagraphics Books describes as “a mammoth volume dedicated to one of the last underground sexploitation films of the 20th Century.”

With more than 300 generously illustrated pages, this would be a monumental tribute to any film, yet in this case, beyond honoring McCarthy’s vision, it’s a tribute to the entire Memphis scene of the ’90s. The fact that it’s a compendium of “essays, reviews, articles, and interviews” rather than a single narrative is actually a strength, as the book offers many voices, some from the era, some looking back in hindsight. Impala’s Scott Bomar, for instance, writes movingly of recording with the legendary Roland Janes. There are also reminiscences by the star of the film, D’Lana Tunnell of Texas, and the three supporting actors from Memphis, Kristen Hobbs, Sophie Couch (Christine Gladney), and Dawn Ashcraft (who most Memphians know as McCarthy’s wife at the time, Kimberly

Ashcraft). These essays — and accompanying photos — are especially “revealing” as the four women describe McCarthy cajoling them into performing topless, and the spirit of gonzo transgression in which they did so. One might thus consider both the film and this book as bold shots across the bow in the “free the nipple” movement.

The introduction by the Commercial Appeal’s John Beifuss sets the context perfectly, and the Memphis Flyer is wellrepresented with writings by Greg Akers, Chris Davis, Susan Ellis, John Floyd, Andria Lisle, and yours truly. Also on display is a letter by McCarthy’s biological father, Terry Blair Carr, published by the Flyer in 2008, though no one knew of that connection at the time.

And that is where the personal, emotional heart of the book resides. Most of the essays are by McCarthy himself, and while many of them, bursting with wordplay, concern the process of indie filmmaking, the director, an adopted child, also delves deeply into the private family history that obliquely inspired the film. As he ruminates on the parents who raised him as well as his search for his biological parents, the book becomes a profoundly moving detective story. A further essay by Tunnell, in which she reveals that she too was adopted, resonates with this, marking both the book and the film as expressions of very heartfelt histories.

Part of the mystery and allure of these histories is where they overlapped with the mythic realm of Elvis Presley, and his presence throughout the book lends the proceedings an epic glow. The result is a rich tapestry woven from the families, friendships, fetishes, and fandom of the last century in the land that McCarthy calls “Mythissippi,” but also in Memphis itself. And, as a celebration of the latter, the milieu in which McCarthy’s vision took root, this volume is unparalleled.

Far from being mere vanity projects, the film and the book are emblematic of an evolving community. As Bomar writes, “if I were to stumble upon a time machine, I would dial in Mike McCarthy’s Memphis, TN, in the ’90s.”

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Throughout history, there has never been a culture without religious, mythical, and supernatural beliefs. The vast majority of the world’s people have believed in magic and divinity. Does that mean it’s all true and real? Of course not. Nor does it mean that none of it is true and real. Ultrarationalists who dismiss the spiritual life are possessed by hubris. Everything I’ve said here is prelude to my oracle for you: Some of the events in the next three weeks will be the result of magic and divinity. Your homework is to discern which are and which aren’t.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Several wise people have assured me that the pursuit of wealth, power, popularity, and happiness isn’t as important as the quest for meaningfulness. If you feel your life story is interesting, rich, and full of purpose, you are successful. This will be a featured theme for you in the coming months, Gemini. If you have ever fantasized about your destiny resembling an ancient myth, a revered fairy tale, a thousand-page novel, or an epic film, you will get your wish.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): “Life as we live it is unaccompanied by signposts,” wrote author Holly Hickler. I disagree with her assessment, especially in regard to your upcoming future. Although you may not encounter literal markers bearing information to guide you, you will encounter metaphorical signals that are clear and strong. Be alert for them, Cancerian. They might not match your expectations about what signposts should be, though. So expand your concepts of how they might appear.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I wrote a book called Pronoia Is the Antidote for Paranoia: How the Whole World Is Conspiring to Shower You with Blessings. Among its main messages: There’s high value in cultivating an attitude that actively looks for the best in life and regards problems as potential opportunities. When I was working on the book, no one needed to hear this advice more than me! Even now, I still have a long way to go before mastering the outlook I call “crafty optimism.” I am still subject to dark thoughts and worried feel-

ings — even though I know the majority of them are irrational or not based on the truth of what’s happening. In other words, I am earnestly trying to learn the very themes I have been called to teach. What’s the equivalent in your life, Leo? Now is an excellent time to upgrade your skill at expressing abilities and understandings you wish everyone had.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In 1951, filmmaker Akira Kurosawa made a movie adapted from The Idiot, a novel by his favorite author Fyodor Dostoevsky. Kurosawa was not yet as famous and influential as he would later become. That’s why he agreed to his studio’s demand to cut 99 minutes from his original 265-minute version. But this turned out to be a bad idea. Viewers of the film had a hard time understanding the chopped-up story.

Most of the critics’ reviews were negative.

I bring this to your attention, Virgo, with two intentions: 1. I encourage you to do minor editing on your labor of love. 2 But don’t agree to anything like the extensive revisions that Kurosawa did.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I have selected a poem for you to tape on your refrigerator door for the next eight weeks. It’s by 13th-century Zen poet Wu–Men. He wrote: “Ten thousand flowers in spring, the moon in autumn, / a cool breeze in summer, snow in winter. / If your mind isn’t clouded by unnecessary things, this is the best season of your life.” My wish for you, Libra — which is also my prediction for you — is that you will have extra power to empty your mind of unnecessary things. More than ever, you will be acutely content to focus on the few essentials that appeal to your wild heart and tender soul.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Psychologist Carl Jung wrote, “Motherlove is one of the most moving and unforgettable memories of our lives, the mysterious root of all growth and change; the love that means homecoming, shelter, and the long silence from which everything begins and in which everything ends.” To place yourself in rapt alignment with current cosmic rhythms, Scorpio, you will do whatever’s necessary to get a strong dose of the blessing Jung described. If your own mother isn’t available or is insufficient for this profound immersion, find other maternal sources. Borrow a wise woman elder or immerse yourself in Goddess worship. Be intensely intent on basking in a nurturing glow that welcomes you and loves you exactly as you are — and makes you feel deeply at home in the world.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In a set of famous experiments, physiologist Ivan Pavlov taught dogs to have an automatic response to a particular stimulus.

He rang a bell while providing the dogs

with food they loved. After a while, the dogs began salivating with hunger simply when they heard the bell, even though no food was offered. Ever since, “Pavlov’s dogs” has been a phrase that refers to the ease with which animals’ instinctual natures can be conditioned. I can’t help but wonder what would have happened if Pavlov had used cats instead of dogs for his research. Would felines have submitted to such scientific shenanigans? I doubt it. These ruminations are my way of urging you to be more like a cat than a dog in the coming weeks. Resist efforts to train you, tame you, or manipulate you into compliance.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Before poet Louise Glück published her first book, Firstborn, it was rejected by 28 publishers. When it finally emerged, she suffered from writer’s block. Her next book didn’t appear until eight years after the first one. Her third book arrived five years later, and her fourth required another five years. Slow going! But here’s the happy ending: By the time she died at age 80, she had published 21 books and won the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize for Literature. By my astrological reckoning, you are now at a phase, in your own development, comparable to the time after Glück’s fourth book: wellprimed, fully geared up, and ready to make robust progress.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In honor of this pivotal time in your life story, I offer four pronouncements. 1. You can now be released from a history that has repeated itself too often. To expedite this happy shift, indulge in a big cry and laugh about how boring that repeated history has become. 2. You can finish paying off your karmic debt to someone you hurt. How? Change yourself to ensure you won’t ever act that way again. 3. You can better forgive those who wounded you if you forgive yourself for being vulnerable to them. 4. Every time you divest yourself of an illusion, you will clearly see how others’ illusions have been affecting you.

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ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries author Dani Shapiro has published six novels, three bestselling memoirs, and a host of articles in major magazines. She co-founded a writer’s conference, teaches at top universities, and does a regular podcast. We can conclude she is successful. Here’s her secret: She feels that summoning courage is more important than being confident.

Taking bold action to accomplish what you want is more crucial than cultivating self-assurance. I propose that in the coming weeks, you apply her principles to your own ambitions.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “All good writing is swimming under water and holding your breath,” wrote author F. Scott Fitzgerald. I’d like to expand that metaphor and apply it to you, Aquarius. I propose that your best thinking and decisionmaking in the coming weeks will be like swimming under water while holding your breath. What I mean is that you’ll get the best results by doing what feels unnatural. You will get yourself in the right mood if you bravely go down below the surface and into the depths and feel your way around.

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The Golden Age of Air Travel Yeah, yeah, another flight diverted because of unruly passengers. This story gets bonus points: On Dec. 5, just before a Breeze Airways flight took off from Orlando, headed to Providence, Rhode Island, a couple on board got into a heated argument, News4JaxTV reported. It seems the man was unhappy because he wanted to get off the plane — which wouldn’t have been such a big deal, but during the discussion, the word “bomb” came up.

Passenger Rachael Corrigan said, “The people were talking about or claiming the other person had a bomb. … The people around them … reported it to the airline, and they’re obligated to land the plane.” The pilot diverted to Jacksonville, Florida, where the man and woman were met by FBI agents and arrested. Breeze Airways canceled the flight. [News4Jax, 12/6/2023] News You Can Use In Stenlille, Denmark, a vehicle fire damaged a nearby house on Dec. 2, InShort reported. Police issued a warning to the community after the fire, cautioning people against using toasters under the front of cars to keep EV batteries warm. While there were no injuries, the car was heavily damaged, and the owner likely will have to pay a fine. [InShort, 12/5/2023]

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Least Competent Criminal A 62-year-old woman from Haslett, Michigan, picked a poor time to dash through the self-checkout at Walmart with $700 worth of merchandise in her cart, WJRT-TV reported. On Dec. 2, as the store participated in a Shop with a Cop event in Genoa Township, a clerk notified one of about 75 police officers on hand about the shoplifter.

“I do have to say it surprised me,” said Michigan State Police Lt. Rene Gonzalez. “When you see 75 cops in the store, I mean, I don’t know if maybe they thought we were too busy.”

The alleged thief was detained in the parking lot and taken to jail. [WJRT, 12/5/2023] Nah, I’m Done Joshua James Pinquet, 21, of Orlando, Florida, made an apparent sudden decision on Nov. 28 to quit his job, Iredell Free News reported. As he was driving a van with four prison inmates

locked in the cargo area, Pinquet contacted his boss at the inmate transport company and said he was done. He was supposed to deliver the inmates to Hickory, North Carolina, but instead he kept going; when Iredell County sheriff ’s officers caught up with him, he was arrested and charged with second-degree kidnapping and larceny.

[Iredell Free News, 12/3/2023] Saw That Coming In Venice, Italy, on Dec. 3, tourists once again behaved badly — and this time they ended up all wet. The Guardian reported that travelers from China were riding in a gondola through the city’s canals, shifting around and standing to take selfies, when the gondola capsized, dumping them in the cold water. The gondolier had repeatedly asked them to stay seated, but as he maneuvered under a bridge, the vessel became unbalanced. He, too, ended up in the water, where he assisted his passengers to safety. [Guardian, 12/6/2023] Compelling Explanation Michael Green, 50, and Byron Bolden, 37, were sentenced in December in Colorado’s 18th Judicial District for felony theft after they shoplifted about $2,100 worth of items from a Kohl’s store, The Denver Gazette reported. In Colorado, theft under $2,000 is a misdemeanor, which is why their defense counsel creatively argued that the store was having a sale, and the men had coupons, which brought the value of the items down below the threshold for felony theft. The DA wasn’t having it: “Just because an item is on sale doesn’t mean it’s free to steal,” said John Kellner. “Retailers in our community are fed up with theft, and my office will actively prosecute these offenders.” [Denver Gazette, 12/12/2023] Send your weird news items with subject line WEIRD NEWS to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com.

News of the Weird is now a podcast on all major platforms! To find out more, visit newsoftheweirdpodcast.com.

NEWS OF THE WEIRD © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication.

Reprinted with permission.

All rights reserved.

FOOD By Michael Donahue

Brewski Baking Crave’s beer pastry is head of the class.

PHOTO: FRANK CHIN

Angela Alexander, Gena Mosely, Lana Hickey, and Morgan Kelly Her husband, Ben Hickey, is a chef who worked at the old Jarrett’s restaurant before becoming executive chef at Amerigo Italian Restaurant.

Lana made birthday cakes and pastries for Facebook friends before she and her husband opened Crave Coffee Bar and Bistro eight years ago in Arlington, Tennessee. “I always wanted to open a restaurant and a coffee shop.”

They served sandwiches and soups made from scratch as well as baked items, including homemade cinnamon rolls, blueberry biscuits, and Lana’s popular “sausage cheddar muffins.”

She and her husband had a “huge following” at the restaurant, which they ran for eight years until closing it in October 2023.

In 2017, while they still owned the restaurant, Lana, who now had three children, decided to open a bakeshop.

Running a bakeshop is easier than a restaurant, she says. “The hours are different. The holidays are different from a restaurant. I’m not there at night.”

She did the baking and her husband handled all the administrative duties, including finances and payroll.

Lana opened the Germantown location in October 2023. “We do all types of gourmet desserts, wedding cakes, custom cakes.”

Many of their recipes come from

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recipe books that belonged to Lana’s grandmother as well as grandmothers of her general managers.

Their pastry menu changes every day, but they do keep “staple items,” including their “cheesecake brownies” and “strawberry crunch bars.”

Their cheesecakes also are “never changing,” Lana says. “We recently started supplying those to Moondance.

We do turtle cheesecake, red velvet, and traditional strawberry.”

And, “to be a little bit different,” she does a Biscoff or cookie butter cheesecake.

“The newest thing we have done is our banana pudding cake. Holy cow.

It’s out of this world. It’s a banana butter cake with fresh bananas, white chocolate buttercream, and banana pudding filling. And then it has your vanilla wafer cookie crumble around the top and bottom edge.”

As for future plans, Hickey wants to open a third bakeshop location. She’s currently looking at Olive Branch, Mississippi, and Millington, Tennessee.

And opening another restaurant isn’t out of the question. It would be “fine dining French cuisine.”

And, yes, Hickey does take photos of her baked creations.

But, she adds, “It goes out our door so fast I mostly keep up with my photography skills with my children.”

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Students in the school’s home economics class provided some of the food.

Hickey, who describes herself as “more of an artsy person,” says seeing the food with her artist’s eye enabled her, through “presentation and colors,” to “create art and put it on a plate.”

Before seeing the fancy plates of food, Hickey “didn’t know what fine dining looked like.”

Olive Garden was the closest she’d gotten to that type of food, she says.

Because of that class, Hickey enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Atlanta, where she concentrated on French cuisine fine dining. “That’s actually my background. It wasn’t until after I graduated and got into the food industry that I started baking pastries.”

She made salads and desserts at the old Madison Hotel, now Hu. Hotel.

“Our executive chef, Chris Windsor, had a list of items he would like for us to make, but he left it in our hands to come up with recipes. That kind of thing. So, I did get to be a little creative.”

One of her first original desserts was “bananas with white chocolate chips and caramel rolled up in a wonton wrapper, deep fried, and then rolled in cinnamon and sugar.”

Hickey stopped working at the hotel after she had her first child. But, when her daughter turned 3, Hickey returned to baking big time. “She got up on the counter. I’d Google a different recipe and we’d just kind of experiment on the weekend.

“I always cooked dinner every night for my family. When she and I would experiment, it would typically be baking. I jokingly told my husband, ‘I can’t get rusty. I have to stay on top of my skills ’cause I’m going to use them one day.’”

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rave Sweets Bake Shop owner Lana Hickey provided edible brew — pastries made with beer — to the recent Science of Beer event at the Museum of Science & History (MoSH).

And she joked, “Okay. I’m coming for the trophy this year.”

MoSH special events coordinator John Mullikin told her Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken came in number one at the event’s best food category for the past two years.

But not this year. Crave Sweets took the first place spot at the January 12th event.

“We did chocolate stout cake with rum butter cream and butterscotch beer brownies,” Hickey says. “We had people coming to our booth nonstop.”

Their molasses cookies were the only thing not made with beer. “We make our molasses cookies to be dipped in the beer.”

She was surprised at the response.

Typically, “savory items,” not sweets, are paired with beer, she says.

Hickey knows a thing or two about sweets. She’s the owner of two locations of Crave Sweets Bake Shop: one at 11615 Hwy. 70 in Arlington, Tennessee, and the other at 1730 South Germantown Road, Suite 123, near Moondance Grill.

Hickey began cooking in her hometown of Sumner, Mississippi. “I did a lot of cooking in my teenage years for my siblings. My mom worked multiple jobs.”

Hickey learned a lot from her mother and her grandmother. “And the rest is pretty much self-taught. It was Southern style food. Your typical pinto beans and cornbread and meat and threes.”

But that’s not what sparked her interest in cooking. In high school, she took a class on photographing food. She thought, “People get paid to create plates like this?”

27

FILM By Chris McCoy

The ’Vous The documentary about The Rendezvous is “a beautiful American story.”

T

January 25-31, 2024

he night The ’Vous won the Best Hometowner Feature Award at Indie Memphis 2022, director/producers Jeff Dailey and Jack Lofton missed the awards ceremony. The film had premiered that afternoon to a sold-out Playhouse on the Square, and the crew had trekked Downtown for a reception at The Rendezvous, the storied barbecue restaurant whose inner workings Dailey and Lofton spent seven years documenting. Figuring they had missed the awards ceremony, the duo headed to The Lamplighter, where my wife Laura Jean Hocking and I were hosting our annual filmmakers’ party.

Naturally, the Indie Memphis awards ceremony went way over its allotted time, so Lofton was giving up and leaving the Lamp at the exact moment I was walking in the door. “We didn’t know where everybody was, so we were about to bail,” recalls Lofton.

“Where are you going? You won!” I half yelled at him.

It took a moment for the news to sink in, so I got to watch the realization that all their hard work had paid off play out on his face. It’s definitely a top-five Indie Memphis memory for me — and for Lofton, it’s number one. “Then Larry Karaszewski, the writer of Man on the Moon, walked in, and I said, ‘What are you doing here?’” Lofton continues. “He said, ‘Who the hell are you?’ And I said, ‘I’m the guy who made The Rendezvous documentary, The ’Vous,” And he’s like, ‘Oh my God! You won! Where the hell were you? I was supposed to give you the award!’ It was a great time. I respect him tremendously. He said some amazing things about the restaurant, and he called it [The ’Vous] ‘a beautiful American story.’”

Lofton and Dailey are both from

Arkansas and have fond memories of eating at The Rendezvous while they were visiting Memphis with their families. “It was always for the farm convention,” says Lofton. “My dad was a farmer in Hughes, Arkansas, and we’d go to church in Memphis and eat at The Rendezvous.”

When they read a Commercial Appeal article about longtime Rendezvous servers “Big Robert” Stewart and Percy Norris retiring, Lofton and Dailey realized they had a story to tell. “It’s an institution, it’s about the people. What Percy Norris and they’ve built there, the “Big Robert” Stewart in stories that they’ve lived, The ’Vous and these guys are stepping down, retiring, and passing the torch. We’ve got to get in there right now. So, within three product in the end.” days, we had — with Jeff and some of Against the backdrop of famous his friends and people that we knew — diners and pivotal deals sealed over a a full film crew down there.” plate of ribs was the everyday drama Filming would continue for years, of a family business navigating change. with film crews acting as fly-on-the“It’s an important story to tell when we wall observers for bustling nights on were at the crossroads of a company the restaurant floor, personal moments during Covid and the retirement of with the Vergos family, and endless some of our Rendezvous originals,” stories about the history that happened says Anna Vergos, whose grandfather in the restaurant. “We’re a seven-year founded the restaurant. “I’m proud to overnight success,” says Lofton. look back on this documentary and “A lot of the new films that are comsee how much growth we’ve all felt and ing out these days, they don’t have the continue to embrace.” budget or the time to spend time with One of the film’s most compelling the participants, with their characters,” storylines regards Calvin, a novice bussays Dailey. “What we wanted to do boy trying to get his foot in the door. was immerse ourselves and get to know “It just sort of wrote itself once we were the people personally as well as profesdown there,” says Lofton. “The story sionally. Yeah, it’s a lot more challengof the busboy, and how the institution ing that way, but I think it’s a richer works, and the family dynamics — it

was all there.”

After a rapturous reception at Indie Memphis, The ’Vous completed a festival run that included a sold-out screening at DOC NYC, the biggest documentary festival in North America. This week, Memphis will get a chance to see The ’Vous when it kicks off its theatrical engagement at the Malco Paradiso.

“We were so fortunate that people across the spectrum of The Rendezvous, from waitstaff to the family to many others, opened their personal lives to us — you really can’t predict what’s going to happen when you dive into people’s lives! We’re just so grateful to them, and to the city of Memphis. It’s a place that we both love.”

The ’Vous is showing at Malco Paradiso through February 1st.

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ER / Y L F S I H P M E M / S.COM N G I S E D Y T I C D GRIN SHOP/HOME

N O W P L AY I N G B y C h r i s M c C o y

Killers of the Flower Moon Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece returns to theaters for an encore in the wake of eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, the legendary Thelma Schoonmaker for Best Editing, the late Robbie Robertson for Best Score, Robert De Niro for Best Supporting Actor,

Anyone But You The sleeper hit of the winter just passed $100 million at the box office. The rather old-fashioned rom-com, based on Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, coasts on the star power of Euphoria and The White Lotus’ Sydney Sweeney.

Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color Director Takashi Yamazaki remastered his film in black and white to capture the spirit of Ishirō Honda’s original Gojira — and put a few more yen on the biggest box office pile of any Japanese film ever released in America. But this film is not just a craven cash grab; it’s the best kaiju flick since Honda’s Invasion of Astro-Monster.

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Origin Director Ava DuVernay looks at the big picture of human cruelty with this adaptation of Isabel Wilkerson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents. The book and film compare American racism, Nazi anti-Semitism, and India’s caste system in an attempt to formulate a unified theory of repression.

and Lily Gladstone for Best Actress. This is filmmaking of the highest order.

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T H E L A S T W O R D B y B r y c e W. A s h b y a n d M i c h a e l J . L a R o s a

Immigrant Stories Dorian Canales’ immigration to Memphis shaped a brighter future.

THE LAST WORD

With so much focus in Memphis on high crime and even higher rates of poverty, you could be forgiven for not realizing that our schools — both public and private — and our neighbors serve most of our residents remarkably well.

One such example, Dorian Canales, arrived in Memphis in 2005 when he was just 7 years old, and largely because of Memphis, he’s flourished. Indeed, as a kid fleeing the gangs of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Memphis seemed like paradise.

His mother Oneyda arrived five years before Dorian, who traveled here with his aunt and cousins. Oneyda left Honduras shortly after Hurricane Mitch destroyed much of the north coast of the nation in 1998. Mitch wiped out 75 percent of the infrastructure of the country, decimating nearly all the agriculture in a country where the economy is agricultural dependent. Seven thousand Hondurans died.

Dorian remembers the long walk and innumerable jalones — hitch-hiked rides — from Honduras to Piedras Negras in Coahuila, Mexico (which borders Eagle Pass, Texas). “We crossed the Rio Grande there and I was PHOTO: BRYCE ASHBY afraid I’d drown. I was 7 years old and couldn’t swim.”

Dorian Canales The migrants turned themselves over to U.S. authorities — seeking asylum from the gang violence and general mayhem in Honduras. They spent three days in detention and were released contingent upon a future court date. Dorian remembers very little, but recalls eating a bologna sandwich for the first time in the detention center. The boy was reunited with his mother in the Nutbush neighborhood of Memphis. She worked at McDonald’s and later as a painter with a commercial/home painting company. Dorian spent a lot of time with his aunt and cousins, who helped raise him during this time.

He was enrolled at Jackson Elementary School. At first, he felt isolated, so he formed a third-grade gang called the “Vatos Locos,” or The Crazy Dudes, ironically seeking comfort in the very structure that pushed him out of Honduras. This earned him a week’s suspension from school and a stern talking-to from the principal. “She told me I’d be deported if I continued my bad behavior.” His principal’s warning set him straight and he left the idea of life in a gang behind.

He spoke no English, but through his ELL classes (English-Language Learner) learned the language quickly. His changed behavior allowed him to win, in the fourth grade, an “accelerated reader award” based on the number of books read. He came to see that education, rather than the Vatos Locos, would help him excel. Next, at Kingsbury Middle School, Dorian joined the art and theater club, learned to play a musical instrument, and played on the soccer team. “I wanted to be at school; there was more to do there than at home and so I jumped into all aspects of Kingsbury and made friends because I’m essentially an extrovert.”

It was at Kingsbury Middle where he met Erin Myers, his algebra teacher, who changed his life. In 2012, thanks to her support, he applied to CBHS (Christian Brothers High School) and was admitted. CBHS represented a new world for Dorian: Nutbush was essentially Latino, African-American, and under-resourced; CBHS was white, affluent, and Catholic. “I struggled socially in this new world, but realized I had an opportunity to grow there.”

He seized the opportunities at CBHS, joined the marching band, played soccer, and focused on academic subjects. But when he returned to his neighborhood, he bolted toward Streets Ministries, which was his home and refuge during these years. As graduation from CBHS approached, Ms. Myers stepped in again, helping Dorian apply to college. He was accepted to Rhodes College, but lacked funds for tuition and, as a DACA recipient, was ineligible for all federal financial aid. Myers set up a GoFundMe that raised $10,000, and Dorian began to think that Rhodes might be an option.

Fortunately, the GoFundMe campaign caught the attention of Rhodes, and Dorian was admitted as a Bonner Scholar — a program that offers full tuition discount in exchange for community service in our city. Dorian graduated from Rhodes in May 2020 and distinguished himself as a student of economics. He was fully immersed in the campus culture, working at outreach to underserved students in Memphis public schools, helping convince them of the benefits of college and furthering their education.

Dorian has forged ahead with optimism, grace, and determination without focusing too much on the tenuousness of his DACA status. A future president’s strike of a pen could lead to his deportation. Presently, he works in commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase. He has a passion for teaching and giving back to kids like himself, yet continues working in finance: “You know, I have to earn money because I’m essentially the retirement plan for my parents.”

The gangs of Honduras never grabbed Dorian Canales. Our schools, plus mentors, family members, and funders — and JPMorgan — have held onto Dorian. It’s worth remembering, despite shortcomings and struggles, our institutions, this community, and people like Dorian Canales continue to make Memphis great.

Bryce W. Ashby is an attorney at Donati Law, PLLC. Michael J. LaRosa is an associate professor of history at Rhodes College.

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Editor’s note: This is the first in a five-part series highlighting local immigrants and their contributions to Memphis.

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