Image source: Fedex.com

The largest employer in Memphis is getting even bigger

FedEx is the largest private employer in Memphis, as well as the largest tenant of the Memphis International Airport. Its current Super Hub is undergoing modernization and expansion, with the goal of increasing capacity and preparing for upcoming growth.

Memphis International Airport is already home to the second-largest air cargo facility in the world—and this will further secure its positioning as a major hub. To keep up with demands across the globe, FedEx will be investing in new technology, which it can leverage to reduce the costs of its operations.

The new Super Hub project has already begun

FedEx’s Super Hub development broke ground in March 2019 and is expected to continue through 2025. This is despite the fact that FedEx has been cutting its costs in other areas of the globe. The Super Hub will be a technologically advanced facility, providing upgrades and expansion that will be necessary for the business to continue to expand. While it’s a gamble, FedEx is confident in its transportation capabilities in the area.

Just a small part of upcoming Memphis growth and development

While this project is large, it only represents a very small amount of the upcoming growth in Memphis. There are dozens of new projects slated for development in Memphis, a city that is growing dramatically within the next few years.

Memphis is currently seen as an area that is packed with potential. One of the top cities for millennials, yet an area that has not experienced significant growth in the past, the city is poised for rapid expansion.

Further reading

• Airport, FedEx combine for more than $1.6 billion in upgrades at Memphis International
• FedEx spending big at Memphis hub, despite cost-cutting plans

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2019 Memphis Chicken and Beer Festival

Is there really anything else you need to know about this? It takes place at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on August 3 (which is a Saturday) from 6 to 10 p.m. Basically, if you’re hungry, looking for some quality Memphis chicken and want to water it down with a locally crafted beer, this is the perfect event for you.

Elvis Week Festival

The week-long celebration of Elvis starts on August 9 and lasts all the way until August 17. It’s a great time to visit Graceland, or you can stop by one of the numerous other locations around Memphis that are putting on a special activity for Elvis fans. Make sure to check out the website Elvis.com for additional information.

Memphis Water Lantern Festival 2019

During the festival, you can create your own water lantern and bring it to the waterfront at W. Mallory Avenue. There is something magical about this event as you watch the water lanterns sway and bob on the water. If you haven’t yet taken in this particular event, it’s a great opportunity to get out with the kids.

Delta Fair and Music Festival

This is one of the biggest festivals in all of Tennessee. It begins on August 30 and lasts until September 8. There are different events, activities and live music events going on during the fair and festival. You do need to purchase tickets for each individual day, but you can buy tickets at the door or at your local Kroger store.

There’s Plenty to Do in Memphis This August

These are just a handful of the events and activities going on in Memphis this August. More events are to come and will be announced as the weeks approach, so make sure to keep it here for the latest updates on events, shows, concerts and activities going on.

Additional Reading

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Tmora – Elvis Week 

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More About Lucky 7 Brass Band

As the band’s website proclaims, the Lucky 7 Brass Band is made up of some of the “baddest of the bad musicians in Memphis.” It is a group that plays everything from soul to rap and everything else in between. The band is made up of seven talented musicians. This includes Randy Ballard on the trumpet as well as Jawaun Crawford on the trumpet. Both Nathan Duvall and Victor Sawyer play the trombone, and Jim Spake plays the alto sax. Neal Bowen brings the beat as he plays the bass, and Ryan Peel brings it all together on drums.

More About the Event

When heading out to the Lucky 7 Brass Band show, gates will open at 6 p.m. It’s best to show up early in order to get the best seat. It is a family-friendly event, and you can bring picnic baskets, lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. The show does begin at 7 p.m., so the earlier you arrive, the more time you’ll have to set up.

You can park downtown and then ride a bicycle down to the river. You can also rent a bike or scooter if you’d like. If you have gear, you can also walk down without a problem. Plus, there is Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible parking available right on Mud Island.

Upcoming Acts

There is a performance every Friday night beginning on June 21 and ending with the Lucky 7 Brass Band on August 9. While you owe it to yourself to take in the final act of the summer, there are plenty of other acts to enjoy.

On June 21, Nick Black takes center stage for “Soulin’ on the River.” Then, on July 12 (there is a weekend off to celebrate the Fourth of July) Black Cream will perform. There is another weekend off before Katrina Anderson plays on July 26, and then the Lucky 7 Brass Band will perform on August 9 to close out the event.

“Soulin’ on the River” is an extended concert series taking place at The Grove on Mud Island River Park. Kicking off on June 21 and ending on August 9, it is a great opportunity to get out of the house and take in some of the best Memphis sounds. So whether you check out Tonya Dyson or the Lucky 7 Brass Band, make sure to schedule plans to head out to the park by 6 p.m. That way, you will have the best seats for some world-class performances.

Additional Reading:

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Lucky 7 Brass Band Facebook

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What’s coming to the Memphis International Airport?

Improvements to the airport include: moving walkways, wider corridors, larger boarding areas, higher ceilings and natural lighting. All of these new improvements should make the Memphis International Airport feel bright, open and spacious, while also increasing its overall capacity.

In addition to this, the airport will be adding 25 destinations served by direct flights—becoming both busier and larger.

A $214 million price tag guarantees results

A combination of bonds, federal grants, and self-funding are going to be used for the new developments at Memphis International Airport, with no money coming from the city itself. With the airport being the first impression millions of visitors experience for the city, new developments in the airport’s technology will be good for residents and good for commerce.

Modernization isn’t the only thing that’s going on at Memphis International Airport. The FedEx Super Hub located at the Memphis International Airport is also due for some significant expansion and modifications—and it’s already the second largest hub in the world. There’s going to be a lot to see in the coming years for Memphis International Airport, and for Memphis Growth as a whole.

Further reading

Memphis International Airport begins modernization project

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Big

With $15 billion allocated for recent, current and planned development in Greater Memphis, we have a platform for unprecedented Memphis growth. It’s not just ServiceMaster. All across the Riverfront, we’re seeing new projects — major projects — going up, like Union Row, the largest private investment in Memphis history at more than $900 million for a building featuring a 30,000-square-foot market, nearly 800 apartment units and 350,000 square feet of office space, not to mention hotel, parking and retail space.

Other projects include dramatic renovations and expansions like the $28 million going toward the Tennessee Brewery, vacant since 1951, now being transformed into a 136-unit apartment building in the South End. Methodist LeBonheur is going to help bring a surge of health care and education jobs to the city with a $280 million expansion to the master campus, including a 450,000-square-foot tower.

These projects are not cherry-picked; there is simply too much momentum in every direction to give all of it the attention it deserves, such as the $1 billion FedEx renovation at its Memphis International Airport Super Hub, Indigo Ag bringing 700 full-time jobs to downtown Memphis and establishing a headquarters at the Toyota Center, as well as AutoZone, St. Jude and International Paper undergoing drastic expansions. We’re going to see a 550-room Loews hotel and a $175 million renovation of the Memphis Cook Convention Center. This is just scratching the surface, and we’re already running out of space.

The sheer numbers we see at play communicates that this is not just a few new buildings, but a city primed to be the cultural hub going into the new decade.

The post The Future of the Memphis Riverfront appeared first on We Are Memphis.

A new century of soul is not just a slogan; it is a call to all who live, love, and enjoy Memphis to play a part in shaping the next 100 years to come. The Memphis Bicentennial celebration is a chance for the city to show off its various development projects (e.g., Crosstown, One Beale, Central Station, Medical District, Methodist University Hospital, and St. Jude/The Pinch District). It brings together the business, arts, culinary, and scientific/research communities to celebrate everything uniquely Memphis and build on its progress toward bridging communities and working to create a unified Memphis.

200 years in the making

Founded on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River (hence its nickname the “Bluff City”), Memphis is the overlook into southwestern Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and the northern part of Mississippi. It was founded on May 22, 1819, by, among its founders, General Andrew Jackson, who would go on ten years later and serve as the seventh President of the United States. The city has grown from an important center of trade for cotton, through immigration and post-war migration of free African-Americans, from around 40,000 residents in the 1860s to more than 1.3 million in 2017 according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This makes Memphis the 42^nd largest city in the U.S. by population and an important center in the Mid-South region.

Two hundred years has transformed Memphis into a metropolitan area that hosts major colleges and universities, a professional basketball team, a minor-league baseball affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, and major corporations and research facilities such as FedEx and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Two hundred years has helped bring together different population groups and together they have formed a new century of soul for this growing metropolis.

Celebrating the Memphis Bicentennial

There are many events and activities planned around the Memphis Bicentennial Celebration. Each one is designed to pay tribute to the city’s past (all parts of it) and the important role Memphis has played in forming a nation. A look will be taken at the leaders in politics and civics, sports, entertainment and music, and the change-makers that are at the forefront of ushering in a new Memphis.

Thirty-eight distinct cultures make up Memphis. The Memphis in May International Festival looks to honor these cultures and their contribution to the city. Memphis Fashion Week in April will provide a platform for artists, models, designers, and stylists to show their work that is uniquely Memphis. The art of George Hunt and his commissioned work will be on display during the Art of Beale Street Music Festival, also in April. The music of Beale Street will also be played during the Beale Street Festival in May. Other events planned feature walking tours, a BBQ championship, concerts, and neighborhood-based activities. Plan to visit Memphis sometime in 2019 for its Bicentennial celebration and experience its true soul!

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“At Wells Fargo, we are committed to the communities we serve through our volunteerism and corporate philanthropy. Our team members are excited to support United Way of the Mid-South and volunteer in the City of Memphis, bringing their passion and helping those where they live and work,” said Wells Fargo Advisors Complex Manager Ari Litvin.

The day will start with a kick-off rally at 7:30 a.m. at the Pipkin Building (940 Early Maxwell Blvd.). Volunteers will be welcomed by City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland, receive breakfast and t-shirts and be motivated by the Orange Mound Energizers before embarking on a meaningful day of service.

• 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.:  A New Century of Service Kickoff at the Pipkin Building
• 8:30 – 9:00 a.m.:  Volunteers drive themselves to the project sites
• 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.:  Volunteers participate in service projects

United Way and Volunteer Odyssey have partnered on four projects to offer hands-on volunteer experiences for participants.  These volunteer opportunities are open to the community and volunteers are needed. The four projects include:

• River Front Painting – In partnership with the Memphis River Parks Partnership, volunteers will assist in painting the rails that line the Mississippi River parks to beautify the river front.  

• River Front Cleanup with Clean Memphis – Volunteers will pick up litter that has been left behind as the Mississippi River recedes. This is important to keep our city and environment clean, as well as to keep litter from entering our waterways and ending up in the ocean.

Tires to Trails – Tire Clean-Up – Memphis City Beautiful and the City of Memphis have partnered with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation to bring a three-mile long walking and biking trail to T.O. Fuller State Park. The trail will be made up of more than 40,000 tires that will be collected from around the Memphis community, and when it is complete, it will be one of the longest porous trails in the world.  This collection day will take place at one of eight collection sites around the city.

• Meal Packing at the Mid-South Food Bank – Volunteers will sort and package donated goods in order to support the Food Bank’s mission of eliminating hunger in the Mid-South.

To sign up for any of these projects, visit: https://wearememphis.com/a-new-century-of-service

About United Way of the Mid-South

For over 95 years, United Way of the Mid-South has brought the time, talents and treasures of citizens together so individuals and families in need can enjoy a better quality of life. We do this by being the leading catalyst in stimulating support and services for individuals and families as they progress from poverty to prosperity. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, United Way serves an eight-county region which includes Shelby, Fayette, Tipton and Lauderdale counties in Tennessee; Desoto, Tate and Tunica counties in Mississippi; and Crittenden county in Arkansas. The mission of United Way is to improve the quality of life for Mid-Southerners by mobilizing and aligning community resources to address priority issues.  We strive to advance people from where they are to where they dream to be by addressing the building blocks for success–education, financial stability and health. To learn more, please visit www.uwmidsouth.org.

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through 7,700 locations, more than 13,000 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 33 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 262,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 26 on Fortune’s 2018 rankings of America’s largest corporations. News, insights and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

About Volunteer Odyssey

Volunteer Odyssey is a one-stop shop for meaningful volunteer opportunities in Memphis. With our VolunteerCompass platform, we connect volunteers to their ideal volunteer experiences in the Memphis area based on their interests, skills, or neighborhood. We also provide the software that our nonprofit partners use to recruit volunteers and track their impact. Our work creates effective nonprofits, empowered citizens, and revitalized communities. Join us in making Memphis a leader in volunteerism.

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One Beale is a two-part project that includes a multi-story Hyatt Centric hotel. The boutique hotel will have 227 rooms and a 15,000 square foot conference and meeting space. It will be housed in the historic Ellis Machine Shop and will bring a new riverfront restaurant, outdoor pool and rooftop lounge to the riverfront district.

A separate mixed-use residential apartment tower is also part of the project. This luxury apartment community will have 227 apartment homes as well as riverfront restaurant and office space. These apartment homes will add a residential component to the Memphis entertainment district while also helping to transform the waterfront. Current plans also include a public parking garage. While in development, One Beale will bring over 1,400 jobs to the area. Once open, the new development will create over 420 jobs.

While the current development includes the apartment tower and the hotel, future plans include the addition of a Class A office tower, which will bring even more development to the region. The development team is working with the Greater Memphis Chamber to find an anchor tenant, and then work on the office tower will begin.

One Beale is an excellent example of current Memphis growth, as the city continues to expand its offering and create a vibrant environment for business, life and entertainment. Current estimates indicate that One Beale could be complete by as early as 2020. For those of us who call Memphis home, this development is just the start of an exciting future in store for our community.

The post A New Hotel and Apartments Will Soon Rise at One Beale appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Looking for some of the fun places to visit while in Memphis in 2019? Here is a list of the top five destinations that should be on your checklist of must-see destinations when you come to the “bluff city.” Of course, don’t limit yourself to these suggestions; make sure you make the most of your time in Memphis and take in all of the beauty that this city has to offer.

1. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

You may be familiar with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, or the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. You may not, however, be familiar with the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis. The museum is located at 191 Beale Street, the street that is the birthplace of blues and rhythm and blues music. First started as a research museum of the Smithsonian Institution, it became the first such museum associated with the Smithsonian that is not in New York or Washington, D.C.

2. Cooper-Young Historic District

The Cooper-Young Historic District is a neighborhood area bordered by Cooper and Young Streets in the heart of the city. It is where budding artists, artisans, hipsters and the eclectic crowd hang out, drink coffee and make music. The neighborhood is unique and has a vibe all unto itself. Ask locals about the Cooper-Young festival that occurs every September.

3. The Player’s Championship (TPC) at Southwind (Golf)

You may not be a member of this prestigious course, home to the World Golf Championship TPC‒Southwind event up until 2018, but if you are planning a destination outing, wedding or corporate event, what better place than a tour-level golf course and club? The par 70, 7,244-yard course offers great views of the natural beauty all around Memphis.

4. The Peabody Hotel

Not too far from the banks of the Mississippi River lies the famous Peabody Hotel on 2nd Street downtown. Although fun can be had at a hotel, the Peabody Ducks are the real attraction here. The “duck march,” a tradition that dates back to 1940, involves a visit by these famous residents to the lobby fountain at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

5. Orpheum Theater

The Orpheum is a historic theater house that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you like the theater and really like to have fun taking in a touring Broadway show, the Orpheum is the place to go. Who needs to go to New York when you can travel to Memphis to watch a show in a bustling Northern-like Southern town?

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Why is this $28 million addition and renovation initiative worth watching? Here’s what lies ahead for one of the South End’s most exciting projects.

Getting to know the Tennessee Brewery

Most Memphians instantly recognize the Tennessee Brewery building as an iconic downtown fixture. What few realize is that its history spans back more than a century to 1877.

The Tennessee Brewery is an excellent example of Romanesque architecture. With rounded arch designs and a fortress-like appearance, it’s an exciting taste of Old World design in the heart of a modern American city.

One of the coolest aspects of this building isn’t the fact that it was one of the biggest breweries of the late 1800s or that it survived Prohibition — it’s that the edifice stayed true to its style. Even though it filled its last bottles in the mid-1950s, it never gave up its unique aesthetic flair in favor of new Memphis growth trends.

The modern Tennessee Brewery

What has this building been up to since stopping beer production and distribution? For years, the property’s owners debated whether to reclaim the venue or start anew. In 2014, however, the decision was made clear when the edifice popped up on the public’s radar in a new way. Following years of deliberation, it hosted well-attended Tennessee Brewery Untapped events with free live music. These popular pop-up gatherings proved to investors that even one of downtown’s weirdest-looking structures could win hearts and minds.

The Brewery made a perfect community venue in 2014 and 2015.

Reinvigorating the Brewery to the tune of $28 Million

What’s going to happen to this one-time beer mecca? Memphians from all walks of life may soon get the chance to experience the federally recognized historic location personally as it’s transformed into 136 new apartments.

It’s as yet unclear how the Brewery’s new residential aspects might impact the open-air plan. Those who love elements like the attention-grabbing, heavily windowed facade probably don’t have to worry, however. Developers have taken their cues from history and public opinion to preserve as much of the structure’s personality as possible.

The Brewery project’s $28 million price tag may seem hefty, but it won’t break the bank — it’s but a sliver of a massive $15 billion revitalization fund. In short, this has all the hallmarks of a well-planned controlled growth initiative.

Unlike some other development projects, the Tennessee Brewery renovation is in good company. Thanks to the presence of national companies, such as ServiceMaster and AutoZone, the downtown core is experiencing somewhat of a boom. As if the riverfront views weren’t enough of a draw, the upward-moving jobs, fantastic food and music scene make the prospect of residency even sweeter.

The Tennessee Brewery is just one example of what can happen when a proud community rediscovers its roots. Memphis growth trends may yet be evolving, but this project is a sure indicator that they’re headed in the right direction.

The post Why the Tennessee Brewery Renovation Is a Great Use of $28 Million appeared first on We Are Memphis.

1. Barbecue

If you haven’t yet tried the dozens (and dozens!) of BBQ spots in Memphis, 2019 is your year to change that. Entire books have been written on Memphis BBQ and with good reason.

2. Bike Nights on Beale

On Wednesday evenings from April to September, motorcycles gather in impressive droves on Beale.

3. Black Restaurant Week

Memphis is proud to be diverse, and this week is no exception. Come enjoy a rich culinary experience at any of our dozens of local black-owned restaurants. Dates: March 3-9, 2019.

4. Crawfish Festivals

Each April, Memphis hosts our famous boiled crawfish festivals. Two of the biggest include Overton Square and Rajun Cajun. Hope to see you there!

5. Graceland

Does this really need any explanation? If you haven’t been to the home of Elvis Presley in a few years (or ever), it’s time!

6. Elvis Week

Fans from around the globe will flock to the city to celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Dates: August 9-17, 2019. Whether or not you’re a fan already, you’ll become one.

7. Liberty Bowl

If football is your thing, you’ll want to come watch the top teams compete for the 61st annual Liberty Bowl trophy in December.

8. Memphis Fashion Week

International and local designers alike gather each April to show off their most creative and iconic fashions.

9. Memphis Zoo

We boast one of the nation’s top-ranked zoos. Come (with or without the kids!) to see the baby animals or visit any of the many state-of-the-art exhibits.

10. RiverArtsFest

Each October, hundreds of local artisans gather for an impressive weekend show in downtown Memphis. Come be inspired and entertained by the very best.

11. The National Civil Rights Museum

Come witness the history of the civil rights movement in a fully immersive and absolutely memorable way.

12. Trolley Nights

The last Friday of every month means one thing: Trolley Nights. Galleries open. Music wafts through the air. Free drinks appear on South Main.

Bottom line: This list doesn’t even scratch the surface of what’s waiting for you here in Memphis. Come see for yourself!

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Memphis is a city you truly need to see to believe. While the best way to do this is to actually visit our great city, we want to highlight some of what you can expect on such a visit. That is why we wanted to showcase some amazing photos that will make you want to visit Memphis as soon as possible.

Memphis is a beautiful city at all times of day. But here is a picture of the city at dawn, while many of the residents are still asleep, and the city itself is just waking up. It highlights the fact that Memphis isn’t just a large city. There’s plenty of park space surrounding the city. It also has beautiful architecture and a great riverwalk. There truly is something for everyone here in Memphis.

Downtown Memphis isn’t all tall skyscrapers and massive buildings. As you can see from the photograph, it has a very down-to-earth feel, from its cobblestone drive to the locally owned restaurants, bars, music joints, and clothing shops. This is what America used to look like just a few decades ago, but many cities abandoned this look in favor of what was new and shiny. In Memphis, you’ll experience an incredible blast from the past while at the same time taking in what truly helps make the city incredible.

 

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Memphis is full of quirks. It’s unique in just about every way. There’s a reason this area of the city was voted as one of the best streets to walk in the whole country. The vibrant signs are all different and each represents a locally owned business. You’re not going to find a Tater Red’s anywhere else. Nor are you going to take in the same experience anywhere else as you do at BB King’s Blues Club. This blues guitar legend opened up the club and—while the man himself may no longer be around—his music lives on forever. So whether you’re interested in just walking the street or you want to stop in for world-class culture, you’ll never find anything else like what you’ll discover in Memphis.

The city of Memphis is an incredible destination. Whether visiting for pleasure or moving to the city for good, you’ll always find something new and exciting to take in. While the best way to experience the city is to visit it first hand, these were only some of the many amazing photographs that highlight just how special a place Memphis is.

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ServiceMaster runs several major brands throughout the United States

ServiceMaster is a global holdings corporation that owns a number of small businesses. Some of the best-known businesses it operates include Furniture Medic, Merry Maids, ServiceMaster Restore, Terminix, Terminix Commercial and AmeriSpec (to name a few).

The vast majority of businesses ServiceMaster runs focus on pest control, janitorial services (both commercial- and residential-based), plus furniture repair and disaster response. Because these needs are desired throughout the United States, ServiceMaster has managed to expand its business operations to include 13,000 corporate employees, plus 33,000 additional independent employees. As of 2015, the company brought in $2.59 billion in revenue.

Making the move to Memphis

For the better part of the company’s history, it called the Chicago suburbs of Downers Grove home. However, as the business expanded, so too did the office of operations for the smaller companies ServiceMaster owned. In order to centrally locate itself and bring the smaller companies together, ServiceMaster moved its main office to Memphis.

More recently, ServiceMaster moved away from East Memphis into Peabody Place, located in downtown Memphis. The company first started the move in 2016 and completed it in 2018. With its headquarters now centrally located in the heart of Memphis, it’s looking to become a major face within the city.

Life in Peabody Place

Peabody Place first took shape in downtown Memphis back in 1993. Eventually, though, smaller businesses moved out of the building, leaving it all but vacant in downtown Memphis. ServiceMaster saw the opportunity to rejuvenate this area of downtown while also better positioning itself within the city. The enclosed mall at Peabody Place has a total of 300,000 square feet, giving the company and all of its smaller branches plenty of space to expand.

The building is also famous for having, in extremely large letters on the roof, “come downtown and play,” which is visible from the air and can be seen if using the Google Earth application (it also appears when using the map mode of Google Maps and driving downtown).

Demonstrating excitement for downtown Memphis

Downtown Memphis has seen a drastic uptick in renovations and new construction in recent years. Beyond ServiceMaster bringing its headquarters to downtown, the city itself has experienced both current and planned development valued at $15 billion.

The planned development will not only bring in new development and help beautify the downtown area, but important jobs and new opportunities for current residents. And this momentum will only continue.

Additional Reading

ServiceMaster

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

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For 42 years, Memphis in May has brought the world to Memphis by saluting the cultures of 38 different countries. But this year, instead of saluting a country, Memphis in May will honor a city. A city with a rich heritage and colorful history. A city whose culture has impacted the world, and is poised for an even greater brighter, future. For 2019, Memphis in May’s annual salute will honor our hometown, the city of Memphis!

2019 will mark a momentous milestone for Memphis, and Memphis in May will join in celebrating our city’s 200th anniversary and welcoming the next 100 years to come. This is an opportunity to further elevate Memphis with our global reach sharing the history, culture, and vision of Memphis and Shelby County.

Memphis has changed the world and will continue to do so. We’re a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. We create, we invent, we experiment, and this year we invite the world to experience our beautiful home on the banks of the Mississippi River. The Bluff City, home of the blues, soul, and rock-n-roll. A city where grit and grind are more than our team’s slogans, they are who we are. Determined, passionate, authentic, soulful, and unstoppable.

A new theme, a new century

The bicentennial isn’t just a celebration of the last 200 years. It’s a celebration of the things to come. And there are a lot of things coming for the city. From billions of dollars in construction to new business partners and a growing economy, there is much to look forward to in the years to come.

That is why the theme for the celebration is “A New Century of Soul.”

Memphis has always been about its heart. From the very founding of the city to where it is today, the heart and soul of its citizens are the lifeblood, pumping new ideas from its core. A New Century of Soul is a celebration of exactly that.

Kicking it off

The bicentennial celebration is set to kick off on April 26. This begins a two-day festival in which those interested can take part in the world-famous Tennessee Whiskey Trail. At the main location of the festival, distillers from not just Memphis but around the state will come to show off their finest products. It’s an opportunity to experience some of the best American-produced spirits.

For those who are not whiskey enthusiasts, there will still be plenty of other activities to take part in on April 26 and 27.

May 22 is the official birthday of Memphis. The birthday will be hosted by the United Way Mid-South, and volunteers will come together on this day to provide aid to areas around Memphis. Whether it’s help cleaning up portions of the city or other donations, United Way wants to help Memphis residents beautify the city.

Now, everything comes to a head on May 25. This is geared to be the largest celebration the city of Memphis has every seen. More information on everything (and everyone) taking part on May 25th will come out as the date approaches. However, it will be hosted by Memphis in May and will take place in Tom Lee Park.

The beginning of the celebration will honor all the people and neighborhoods that have made Memphis what it is today.

Continuing the celebration

Of course, the bicentennial celebration is not just one day. It’s an entire year. It continues on for the Audacity Fest, which kicks off on September 27.

Then the official last day of the celebration (right before the winter holidays) is November 24, where Shelby County 200 and each municipality will come together to close out the ceremony and the year at Shelby Farms Park.

Join us as we celebrate what makes Memphis unique. From it’s iconic music to it’s contribution to global cuisine. We’ll salute our innovators and creators. The attractions and soulful spirit of Memphis that draws millions from around the world to our city.

To see more Memphis Bicentennial events click here!

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Love good music, good food, and the finest Tennessee Spirits? Then you don’t want to miss this festival!

Spirits & Soul is a 2-Day Festival that brings the Tennessee Whiskey Trail to downtown Memphis, TN as part of the kick-off to the city’s Bicentennial Celebration, A New Century of Soul. April 25-27, Distillers from around the state will join artist, tastemakers and local businesses of South Main Historic Arts District for a weekend of good music, good food, and the finest Tennessee Spirits.

Ultimate Whiskey Sipping Experience

This is your chance to Share A Sip with local distillers from around Tennessee. Some distilleries you will have heard of, others that are new to the scene, and with a Spirits & Soul Festival Pass you have access to all of them. Friday, April 26 is your chance to access samples plus rare bottles for purchase you can only get at Spirits & Soul Fest. Saturday enjoy a Block Party with handmade cocktails made just for The Festival. Tell your friends to meet you in Memphis, your ultimate whiskey sipping experience awaits.

DAY 1 | FRIDAY, APRIL 26

Trolley Night (6-9pm)

A traditional South Main Trolley Night will be transformed into a downtown Memphis civic fair by pairing Distillers from the TN Whiskey Trail with storefronts in Memphis’ Historic Arts District. From 6-9pm, walk down South Main Historic Arts District while enjoying samples of local spirits from across Tennessee, live music, food trucks, and a new century of downtown Memphis Soul. Spirits & Soul Trolley Night is free to the public. Spirits sampling is limited by the purchase of your 1-Day or 2-Day Spirits & Soul Festival Pass.

Amenities Include:

• Access to distiller’s from across the state.
• Access to samples from TN made spirits.
• Access to purchase rare bottles of TN spirits that are hard to come by. (Friday Night offering only)
• Access to local tastemakers and artists.
• Access to regional favorite food trucks.
• Experience South Main Historic Arts District like never before.
• Free Live Memphis Music.

DAY 2 | SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Block Party (12-5pm)

Continuing our TN Whiskey Trail launch and pre-Memphis Bicentennial celebration, Old Dominick is hosting a Spirits & Soul Block Party from 12-5pm located just South of The Distillery. Enjoy handmade cocktails from each distillery across the state, regional favorite food trucks, and live music. Spirits & Soul Block Party is a ticketed event and cocktail samples are limited by the purchase of your 1-Day or 2-Day Spirits & Soul Festival Pass.

Amenities Include:

• Access to distiller’s from across the state.
• *Access to handmade cocktails from each distillery across the state.* (Saturday offering only)
• Access to local tastemakers and artists.
• Access to regional favorite food trucks.
• Free Live Memphis Music.

Sound like fun? Of course it does!

Click here to get your tickets before they sell out!

See more information about the Spirits & Soul Festival at spiritsandsoul.com!

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MemphisTravel

With nearly 10,000 followers and daily posts, this account provides everything you need when visiting Memphis. MemphisTravel provides posts ranging from promoting concerts and festivals to showing some of the best eats in the city. Additionally, its engaging posts and professional photos really show viewers a first-hand look at one of the greatest cities in the world. I really enjoy this account because it doesn’t focus on just one aspect of the city such as food, sports or art, but it displays a comprehensive look at what makes this city unique.

Choose901

For thoughtful, engaging posts about Memphis, Tennessee, Choose901 is the Instagram page to follow. Choose901 is a community organization that is all about displaying the many great things that Memphis provides. I also really enjoy this page because it has strong engagement with its users. It often has giveaways and provides many outlets for viewers to get more information.

Downtown Memphis

When it comes to exploring a new city for the first time or deciding where to live next, the city’s downtown can be of great importance to some people. If you’re looking for the ins and outs of everything about downtown Memphis, the account Downtown Memphis is one of the top Instagram pages to follow. This account, which has over 17,000 followers, conveniently highlights events, restaurants, shopping and more! With its professional photos and knowledgeable information about the downtown area, I always use this account when looking for things to do, history of the area and reasons why Memphis is so unique. In addition, Downtown Memphis collaborates with other accounts, so you can always find more sources about the area and even get information on how to buy tickets to events, get involved in the community, etc.

Visit Memphis Today!

From enjoying mouthwatering cuisine to attending concerts from some of the nation’s best musicians, these top Memphis Instagram pages provide all of the insight and information you need to enjoy your time in this exceptional city. Whether you’re looking for a fun place to live or you’re searching for a unique vacation destination, Memphis, Tennessee, is a place you’ll never forget.

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In a recent article, the Travel Channel stated that Memphis is the hottest southern destination of 2019!

With things like our world-famous barbeque, our impact on the civil rights movement, and our works of art, it’s no wonder why we are on their radar.

Memphis is a cultural melting pot in the South. It’s also an easy destination to travel to, no matter where you might be coming from. Whether you’re flying from New York or driving down from Indianapolis, it’s easy to visit, which is one of the reasons why it is such a hot destination.

Perfect For All Ages

Travel Channel highlighted a number of reasons why Memphis is such an excellent travel destination for this summer. Why? Because there’s something for everyone to do, no matter the age.

Summer is the perfect time for families to get out and travel with school no longer in session. Because of this, the perfect destination needs to have activities for children of all ages. Yes, you’ll find plenty of cultural sights for educational purposes, and what child doesn’t love some sticky, messy BBQ? But beyond all of this, there are fun outing activities that both you and your children will love.

Just Some of the Great Activities

There’s no limit to the activities you and your family can take in. With the hundreds of possible southern locations Travel Channel could have selected as its hottest southern travel destination, the reason it picked Memphis was because of these limitless activities.

You can visit the River Line Trail, which was just recently renovated and finished. With kid-friendly activities along the water, fun tree houses, a 30-acre Tom Lee Park, plus festivals taking place throughout the summer, this is a prime destination when you want to get outside, take in the water, and enjoy your time with your family.

Are you an Elvis fan? Even if you were born after the King of Rock passed on, you’ve likely heard his music and know just how important he was to moving the music scene around the world forward. Well, you owe it to yourself to discover Graceland. While in Memphis you can visit the King’s music room, and a fan favorite “Jungle Room,” which is the literal definition of a Man Cave. Just make sure to pick up the Elvis favorite peanut butter and banana sandwich (which is, naturally, deep friend).

Make Your Own Memphis Memories

We could list out the hundreds of reasons why you should come to visit Memphis. From the food to the music to the culture to the festivals. But that takes some of the fun out of discovering Memphis for yourself. Travel Channel doesn’t just pick destinations on a whim. After all, it has television advertisements to sell, so it won’t make up random spots. It does its research and it puts its best foot forward so you can take advantage of its advice.

All of that is why you shouldn’t just read a list of things to do in Memphis. You need to come, explore, and make your own Memphis memories.

To check out the full article from the Travel Channel, click here!

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And don’t ignore the fact that Memphis stays fresh by being a hub of musical experimentation, producing hybrids such as surf rock with a Memphis twang.

Plus, the Memphis music producer Sam Phillips recorded what is often cited as the first rock ’n’ roll song, “Rocket 88,” at his Sun Records studio when it opened in 1952. Ike Turner wrote the song about a powerful auto, and his band member Jackie Brenston sang it.

Music tourism

Memphis serves up a banquet of musical history and styles. It’s a major part of our tourism appeal as demonstrated at the Memphis Travel website, which tops its “what to do” page with the following iconic music hot spots:

• Graceland, 3765 Elvis Presley Blvd.
• Sun Studio, 706 Union Ave.
• STAX Museum of American Soul Music, 926 East McLemore Ave.
• Memphis Music Hall of Fame, 126 South Second St.
• Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, 191 Beale St.
• Blues Hall of Fame, 421 South Maine St.
• Beale Street, which has so many music clubs that it has its own app

Impact of Graceland

Memphis Magazine contributor Chris Davis identifies 1982 as the year that forward-thinking entrepreneurs began shaping our city’s music history as a tourist attraction. In a December 2015 article, Davis noted the tourism renaissance as beginning “when Graceland first opened its doors to the public.”

According to Davis’ article,  Beale Street had lots of boarded-up buildings the year Graceland opened. Sun Records (eventually renamed Sun Studio), where stars like Elvis Presley, Ike Turner, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis and Roy Orbison recorded, was just a quick flash outside the window on Gray Line Tours in the early 1980s, according to Davis’ article.

STAX Museum of American Soul Music is housed in the old STAX Records studio where stars like Booker T. and the M.G.’s, Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding (backed by the Bar-Kays), Sam and Dave, and the Staple Singers all recorded.

Nowadays, the city’s musical landmarks hum with visitors. Ted Evanoff of the Commercial Appeal notes that the neon 1950s appeal of Beale Street was Tennessee’s top tourist stop as of 2016 when it attracted six million visitors.

Additional Reading:

https://www.songfacts.com/facts/ike-turner/rocket-88

https://www.memphistravel.com/what-do

https://memphismagazine.com/culture/music-tourism-is-transforming-memphis/

https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/money/columnists/ted-evanoff/2017/06/24/ted-evanoff-if-elvis-fading-you-wouldnt-know-numbers/413344001/

https://www.staxrecords.com/pages/artists

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The 3rd Annual Vintage901 Wine & Food Festival is happening in Memphis from March 1st – 3rd, 2019.

Vintage901 is a Memphis non-profit that brings Memphians together through excellent tasting wine, fantastic food, and community.

What makes this event so great is not just the wine and food, it’s the movement that this event stands behind. This year, some of the proceeds benefit the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. We love that this event is empowering women in Memphis to be all that they can be!

While the Perfect Pairings dinner, presented by Laurelwood, has already sold out, there is still limited seating available for Sunday’s Sparkling Brunch and tickets will be available online and at the door for Saturday’s Grand Tasting.

The Grand Tasting, presented by Kroger, will be Saturday, March 2nd at Crosstown Concourse East Atrium with extended hours from 3-9pm. There will be over 75 wines available to taste, wine classes by the organization’s Grand Sommelier Laurie Forster, live food demonstrations and tastings by local chefs, along with food samples from Next Door Eatery, Farm Burger, Global Cafe and Mighty Olive, charcuterie from Kroger/Murray’s Cheese shop and an opportunity to purchase goods from local craft vendors.

For those interested in something a little different from wine, Crosstown Brewery and Diamond Bear Brewery will be providing beer samples.

Guests will also go home with a canvas tote filled with Kroger water, Nikki’s Hot Ass Chips and house made Next Door Eatery cookies. One of a kind Vintage901 pottery made by local artist Melissa Bridgman will be available for purchase as well as Vintage901 swag!

The Sparkling Brunch, presented by Sedgwick, will be held on Sunday, March 3rd at Shelby Farms FedEx Center from 12-2pm with food by Chef Jimmy Gentry of P.O. Press & Provisions, Paradox Catering, and Paradox Underground.

Again, tickets are selling out fast so be sure to click the image below and get them before they are all gone!

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Here are some unconventional places to go in Memphis when you come to visit.

The Ducks of the Peabody Hotel

One of the most unusual things to do in Memphis is to visit the Peabody Hotel to watch the ducks. Ducks at a hotel? Yes, a tradition since 1933, when the first team of ducks, Peabody, Gayoso and Chisca, graced the lobby of the formerly named Memphis Hotel Company. The ducks, one male and four females or hens of the North American mallard type, maintain residency on top of the hotel’s roof in a specially built duck palace. Every day, at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., the ducks make their walk from the roof to the lobby where they can be seen by guests and visitors alike. Fun fact: Although the hotel features a French restaurant, there is absolutely no duck on any Peabody Hotel menu!

See a Pyramid Without Going to Egypt

On your tour of the unconventional things to do in Memphis is a visit to an Egyptian pyramid. You may not be aware but the city of Memphis, TN takes its name from the ancient capital city of Memphis in ancient Egypt. The city was located at the mouth of the Nile river, which seems about right given the present-day city’s location on the Mississippi River. One thing that both cities have in common are pyramids. The Memphis Pyramid, which sits at the mouth of the Mississippi, is home to one of the largest Bass Pro Shops in the U.S. and was known in the past for hosting college and professional sports.

Memphis Pyramid Cover Photo by David Roseberry

Drinking with the Goats on Beale Street

If you think hanging out with a bunch of pampered ducks is unusual, how about a group of beer-drinking goats in downtown? No, this is not a typo. Silky O’Sullivans, a bar located in downtown Memphis on famous Beale Street, features two female goats. The goats are known to roam the grounds of the bar, in their tower, looking down on bar-goers and occasionally conning a beer or two off an unsuspecting patron. The goats are treated well by Silky himself, who may share a story or two with you on how they came to take up residency at his bar.

Walk on Water at the Mud Island River Park

You can walk across a five-block replica of the lower Mississippi River. The Mud Island River Park is designed to give you the experience of striding, on scale, the entire river area from Cairo, IL to New Orleans, LA. Once you take your journey, learning how the river flows from state to state, you can step into a 1.3 million gallon pool that replicates the Gulf of Mexico. There you can ride paddleboats and enjoy your trip across the mighty Mississippi.

There are many different ways to enjoy Memphis. So, look for these and other fun and unconventional things to do in Memphis!

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The 20 figures on display throughout MBG’s many gardens look like delicate, paper models of animals and elements from nature, such as stars. Yet they are made of aluminum, bronze, and steel. These sturdy sculptures include cranes taking flight, life-size horses galloping across greenery, and a raptor eyeing a mouse frozen on a rock.

Cover Photo: Memphis Botanic Garden Facebook

Adapting Ancient Arts

Paper folding originated in China around 105 A.D. and was developed into the intricate art of origami by Japanese monks during the sixth century. Around 2000, artist Kevin Box of Santa Fe, New Mexico, began exploring origami as a way to design sculptural models.

Box adapted lost wax casting — an even older craft — to convert folded and crushed paper creations into metal sculptures. In a 2016 video for PBS, he explained that the process traditionally begins with a clay sculpture. However, Box said, he begins with a paper model and “engineers the paper with wax to work within the casting process” creating a mold for liquid metal.

Collaborating Among Artists

Origami in the Garden² includes solo works by Box. The superscript “2” in the title means “Box squared” and indicates collaboration with his artist wife, Jennifer Box, on many aspects of the project.

The works also include pieces involving Box’s collaboration with the late Tim Armijo — a Santa Fe artist who worked in many disciplines — as well as renowned origami artists Te Jui Fu, Beth Johnson, Michael G. LaFosse, and Robert J. Lang.

Fu has published numerous books about origami. At her origami website, Johnson shares diagrams and tutorials based on her work. Lang, a physicist fascinated by the practical as well as artistic possibilities of origami, credits LaFosse’s invention of thin, super-strong paper with making large modeling possible. Both Lang and LaFosse appear in the PBS video with Box.

Learning By Viewing and Doing

Memphis Botanic Garden, which prides itself on being an educational resource for all ages, expects about 10,000 school children to visit Origami in the Garden². Teacher resources are available at the MBG website.

An adult jewelry making class called “Fine Silver Origami” is planned for January 26. For more information, call (901)-636-4128.

The 98-acre facility located at 750 Cherry Road is home to 31 specialty gardens including the new Urban Demonstration Garden, complete with chicken coops. So, if you’re feeling cooped up on a winter day, stretch your wings and your imagination at Memphis Botanic.

Additional reading:

https://www.pbs.org/video/broad-and-high-origami-garden/

https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/SpringFestivals

https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/thegardens

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If that wasn’t enough for Memphis football fans to celebrate, Memphis Express also features NFL legend Mike Singletary as head coach!

Needless to say we’re all pretty excited about this.

Memphis Express’ inaugural game is set to kickoff on 02/16/2019, and we are giving you the chance to cheer on your new football team at a special rate. We Are Memphis has partnered with Memphis Express to give you a $10 savings for tickets to the game! All you need to do is fill out the information below.

Wait there’s more…

Each week 4 lucky winners will win a FREE ticket to the game!

Winners will be drawn from the information you provide above so be sure to sign up. You don’t want to miss out when Memphis competes on the gridiron!

In addition to that, the inaugural Express game will feature an in-game Silent Disco sponsored by City Gear.

• Well known DJ’s from across the city will mix throughout the night providing the soundtrack to the experience.
• The Silent Disco will be held in The Hub seating section of the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
• It’s believed to be the first time a silent disco has ever been held at a professional football, while the game is going on.
• A ticket in The Hub also provides fans with seating near the field, a complimentary drink ticket, and a clear view of the videoboard.
• As part of a special ticket promotion offered thru the Memphis Brand Initiative, a portion of the ticket will go back to the organization to support their projects that positively impact our community.

Check out the Memphis Express homepage here!

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The Crystal Shrine Grotto: Creepy or beautiful? You decide. This man-made grotto was created by a Mexican artist over a period of almost 50 years and depicts the life of Christ. Surrounding the man-made cave is the beautiful 54-acre Memorial Park Gardens.

The River Walk: This five-block-long replication of the Mississippi River is a scaled model you can explore in less than a day. The sculpted area holds over 1.3 million gallons of water, and you can enjoy activities like pedal boat rides or a tour at the museum. Plus, the views here are gorgeous.

Stax Museum: You’ve probably already thought to check out Graceland and Sun Studio, but don’t forget about the museum for American soul music! It contains a rare and impressive collection of over 2,000 artifacts to preserve films, galleries, music, artistry and more. The most impressive item on display might be Isaac Hayes’ custom Cadillac Eldorado, which has a mini-bar, TV and 24-carat gold trim and is lined with white fur carpet.

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The Harahan, Big River Crossing and Hernando de Soto bridges, which span over the river, can be seen in a different way, literally, every night. The bridges are illuminated nightly to provide a visual feast for the eyes. If you have never seen this sight, now is the time to consider a stop in Memphis to enjoy what others in the city have known for some time.

About Bridge Lighting

Travel across the mighty river was made easier with the construction of the Harahan bridge. Opened in 1916, it is the oldest of the three spans that takes traffic to points north, south, east and west to and from Memphis. It was the main thoroughfare for the city until construction of the Memphis-Arkansas bridge and Interstate 55 was completed in 1949.

The span, which was rebuilt in 1928 after fire destroyed the original structure, has been a landmark for many decades. The De Soto Bridge was introduced in 1973 and set to lights in 1986, while Big River Crossing, unveiled in 2016, has attracted more than 300,000 visitors for its nightly lights.

What the Nightly Light Show Offers

The nightly light shows on these bridges give you a compelling reason to spend time at the city’s Riverfront. The bridge lighting has inspired residents and visitors to come out and explore all that the city has to offer through a wonderful display of these architectural marvels. The shows themselves are put on and managed by a privately funded nonprofit, Memphis Bridge Lighting, Inc., which was formed about the time Big River Crossing bridge was unveiled to the public in 2016.

Plan to Take in the Lights

Plan on spending some time in Memphis doing the things that everyone does in this great city. Set aside a night or two with the family or special someone in your life and come sit on the river’s edge. The illumination of the city’s bridges, a tradition that is nearly three decades old, is a great way to unwind, explore Memphis at night, and see the city in a way you may not have thought of doing. A nightly light show on the Mississippi River is a sight to see and a sight you should see!

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A space for space

Victoria Jones, Executive Director of The CLTV explains that when searching for a permanent location for the organization, it was important to choose a space that represented the black culture and the future of black art in Memphis. After viewing locations in other sects of the city such as Crosstown Concourse and Midtown, the team realized that the potential creative energy of the already thriving Orange Mound would allow The CLTV to provide a platform for the black community in its entirety. Positioned in South Memphis, Orange Mound is historically known for being the first community established for and by African Americans in the South, as well as being an essential region for the establishment and prosperity of black-owned businesses and culture. The neighborhood was designated a Preserve America Community in 2016 by First Lady Michelle Obama who described Orange Mound as a “treasured place in the American story.” The Preserve America Community award is an honor which recognizes communities that protect and celebrate their heritage, use their historic assets for economic development and community revitalization, and encourage people to experience and appreciate local historic resources through education and heritage tourism programs. Today, the area features some of the highest civic pride and engagement in the city as new developments such as the Orange Mound Senior Center become established. The CLTV’s new space features a large open gallery in the front of the building with walls that already mount local black photography and art projects. In the back of the building, artists and students have access to a large workshop stocked with art supplies and an ample amount of space for freedom of creative expression. Currently, the organization consists of fourteen staff members who work entirely on a volunteer status for students and local artists in the community. The CLTV is continuing to prepare the new space for its grand public opening on January 11th, 2019.

Art gives people hope

The CLTV focuses on caring for themselves and each other differently. By giving black artists the tools to ethically engage in communities, the organization fights to shift cultural inequality through elevating a consistent spotlight on art within the black community. Jones states that the significance and importance of black culture are rooted throughout Memphis history and The CLTV team seeks to make that known by showcasing and cultivating black art.  

“The wider our platform becomes, the more black artists become involved and the louder their voices get.”

–    Victoria Jones, Executive Director of The CLTV

Looking forward into 2019, The CLTV hopes to plant a strong stake in the ground with its new permanent space and residency programming. After the grand opening, there will be about twelve large shows every year and smaller-scaled shows every 3 weeks, along with performing arts and concert series all year long. Community members, as well as those looking to become involved, can donate money or feasible and age-appropriate art supplies to The CLTV, sign up for newsletters and volunteer events, and of course, continue to bring their soul to Memphis.

For more information on The CLTV, head to the official website!

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Memphis theatre luminary Ekundayo Bandele’s play, “If Scrooge Was a Brother/Sistah,” proves the universality and adaptability of this holiday tale about the importance of generosity and community.

Performances at Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., run Nov. 30 to Dec. 23; with evening shows Thursday through Friday at 7:30 p.m.; and matinees on Saturday (2 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.).

Brother becomes sistah

Bandele’s take on Dickens’ story continues to evolve. When first produced by Hattiloo in 2008 — the company’s third season — the play was titled “If Scrooge Was a Brother.” It focused on a corrupt black businessman, nicknamed “Scroo,” who operates a predatory lending service inherited from his white employer, Boss Marley. Scroo won’t help anyone, including his nephew, who is orphaned when Scroo’s sister works herself into an early grave.

This year, Bandele further stretches Dickens’ tale by casting women as Scrooge and Marley. Ebenita Scrooge is a greedy realtor whose white mentor, Madame Marley, aided Ebenita’s upward mobility by paying for her schooling. Access to the privilege of good schooling is one of many key elements shared by both versions of the play.

But, similar to Brother Scroo, Sistah Scroo isn’t interested in paying it forward. Ebenita has no room in her heart for the poor, so Madame Marley visits from the grave to warn her about the negative consequences she can expect in the afterlife if she doesn’t change.

Florence “Flo” Roach, who appeared in the 2011 movie “The Help,” portrays Scroo. Roach heads the Ettaro Theater Company, which is partnering with Hattiloo on the production.

How Hattiloo got its name

Aside from writing and directing, Bandele founded Hattiloo. It is one of the nation’s few black repertory companies and concentrates on works by African-American writers. Bandele named it for his daughters Hatshepsut (Hatti) and Oluremi (Loo).

In September 2017, The Daily News quoted Bandele as seeing himself “as a servant to the cultural renaissance of the city.” In 2018, TED^x Memphis reported that to build Hattiloo Theatre, Bandele led a capital campaign garnering $4.3 million and completed the project debt-free in the popular Overton Square district.

To purchase tickets to “If Scrooge Was a Brother/Sistah” or other productions, contact Hattiloo Theatre here.

Additional Reading

The Washington Post: On eight-stop ‘Christmas Carol’ tour, varied takes on Ebenezer Scrooge

The Memphis Daily News: Bandele Crafts Cultural Hub for Black Artists

TED^x Memphis: Ekundayo Bandele

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Tennessee’s second largest city shone in the New York Times this year when the publication ran “36 Hours in Memphis.” The article praised a number of innovative, adaptive reuse projects with colorful public art installations, the bike-share program that debuted in the spring, the charms of the Broad Avenue Arts District, and the world-class amenities at Shelby Farms, one of the nation’s largest urban parks.

CNN Travel named Memphis one of its “Five Great Places to Visit in May,” recommending late spring as a the perfect time to enjoy pleasant weather and the start of festival season with Memphis in May, the city’s month-long celebration of its unique music, food and culture. Other reasons to visit included Graceland; Beale Street; The Peabody Hotel’s parade of ducks; Sun Studio; Stax Museum of American Soul Music; Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: National Civil Rights Museum; and local hangout Jerry’s Sno Cones.

Thrillist named Memphis among its “Underrated Places to Visit in Winter,” when visitors can enjoy strolling down Beale Street on a chilly night and being drawn indoors by the sound of the blues, smell of smoky barbecue, and the opportunity for quiet, meaningful conversations with the friendly locals. Thrillist also named Memphis Zoo a must-see winter attraction, with its central tented skating rink, and recommend March visitors check out all the delicacies and deals offered during the city’s popular Black Restaurant Week.

And Frommers, looking ahead, named Memphis one of its “Best Places to go in 2019,” with the city taking its place among the top spots with Singapore, Bulgaria, French Polynesia and Australia’s Northern Territory.

“One of the best parties in the world will take place in Memphis in 2019,” said Frommer’s editorial director Pauline Frommer.  “As Memphis turns 200 during its bicentennial year, this is the perfect time to explore a city rich in music, history and culture, in addition to a flavorful culinary scene that offers more than just the Memphis-style barbecue that the city is already known for around the world.”

Tourism continues to grow in this city on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. According to Memphis Tourism, Memphis welcomed a record 11.7 million visitors, whose economic impact totalled about $3 billion dollars.

“As we kick-off our bicentennial year, we look forward to welcoming the world to our city,” said Kevin Kane, president and CEO of Memphis Tourism.  

In rankings created with the input of top travel influencers from around the world, Travel Lemming, a popular blog dedicated to exploring the world’s emerging and inspirational travel destinations, named Memphis as one of North America’s Best Emerging Destinations for 2019. The article attributed the Bluff City’s travel boom to its robust nightlife scene and cited the Bluff City’s importance as the epicenter of many of America’s most culturally defining moments, from the Civil Rights Movement to the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

To accommodate its growing number of travelers, Memphis is adding new hotels, with 13 now under construction or in the planning phases and an additional 2,000 new hotel rooms in the pipeline for Downtown, according to the Downtown Memphis Commission. And Memphis International Airport has embarked on a new plan to modernize the airport by adding moving walkways, wider corridors, larger boarding areas, higher ceilings and natural lighting.

But it’s not just tourists that continue to be drawn to Memphis. The city is attracting transplants drawn to its laid-back lifestyle, amenities, academic institutions, low cost of living, and business-friendly climate.

Memphis is growing as a destination for job-seekers. In fact, Glassdoor named Memphis one of its Best Cities for Jobs in 2018,  citing the ease of being hired, living affordability, and employee satisfaction.

Mimeo this year announced it will relocate to Memphis, investing $16 million and creating 300 local jobs. And Indigo Ag, a Boston-based agricultural technology company, chose Memphis as its new North American operations headquarters, which is expected to generate about 700 new jobs in the city over the next few years. This move could mean the addition of non-stop flights between Memphis and Boston.

Memphis is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, thanks to its connectivity and an atmosphere that nurtures creativity and passion. Howmuch.net named the Bluff City as the nation’s number one boomtown for women entrepreneurs, stating that between 2007 and 2016, the number of women-owned businesses in the city rose from roughly 31,000 to just under 70,000 — the largest increase of any metropolitan area in the country.

Black Enterprise wrote that Memphis was the top U.S. city to open a Black-owned small business, and BlackTech Week reported Memphis topped the list of cities where black businesses are thriving and business owners feel supported by the community. Examples include dining concepts like Black Restaurant Week, artistic initiatives like Hattiloo Theatre, and innovative nonprofits like MentorMe and The Collective.

And looking at residential real estate investments, Rented.com named Memphis one of its best cities to buy a second home, noting the diverse rental market and low housing prices and real estate taxes.

The robust residential market was evident in 2018 proposals like Union Row, which would be Memphis largest mixed-use development ever, featuring apartments, shops,  restaurants, a hotel, office spaces and green spaces.

Speaking of mixed-use developments and green spaces, Crosstown Concourse, the $200 million transformed former Sears building, made the shortlist in the “New and Old” category at the 2018 World Architecture Awards in Amsterdam. Shelby Farms Park also made the shortlist. Its Heart of the Park makeover, which features a visitors center, restaurant, stage pavilion, boat-rental kiosk and more, was a contender in the “Civic and Community” category. Shelby Farms Park this year also earned a spot in the Family Attractions and Experiences category of the TripSavvy Editors’ Choice Awards.

Memphis continues to be recognized for its world-class hospitals, like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which treats pediatric patients from around the world at no cost. St. Jude is developing Family Commons, a new treatment-free floor where patient families can relax, recover, and spend quiet time together. St. Jude also announced it will build a 3.5-acre green space for patients and families, featuring landscaped gardens, walking paths and a special playground designed for children with restricted mobility.

Also this year came the announcement that the FedEx St. Jude Invitational would join the World Golf Championships circuit, with Memphis welcoming its first World Golf Championships event in 2019. The PGA said fans can expect to be treated to a host of global superstars on the green.

Memphis is known for its love of basketball, and Penny Mania swept the city when Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, a two-time All-American and four-time NBA All-Star, returned to his alma mater in the spring to coach the University of Memphis men’s basketball.

The 901 also welcomed a professional soccer club, Memphis 901 FC, a United Soccer League franchise that will begin playing at AutoZone Park in 2019.

Memphis continued to make its mark in film and television. Elvis’ historic home — one of the world’s most visited historic homes — served as the setting for Hallmark Channel’s “Christmas at Graceland,” as well as the Netflix film “Uncorked, which will be released next year. The barbecue-themed film stars Memphis celebrity chef and former Food Network host Gina Neely, Tony-winner Courtney B. Vance, and comedienne Niecy Nash.

The Food Network’s ongoing affection for Memphis’ culinary community continued in 2018 when the Food Network featured three Memphis food trucks — Stanley’s Sweet Street Treats, El Mero Taco, and Soi No. 9 —  on the series “Big Food Truck Tip with Andrew Zimmern.” The network also invited some Memphis BBQ pitmasters to appear on the popular show “Chopped” and named the Pucker Up Cake at Muddy’s Bake Shop the best cake in Tennessee on its “50 States of Cakes” list.

And Saveur Magazine ended 2018 in Memphis, where it hosted the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards. Finalists flew in from as far as West Africa, Switzerland, and India to share culinary knowledge, create recipes, and discover the city’s soul through its food and culture. The blogger awards were held in the historic Clayborn Temple — a perfect testament to a city where old meets new and where residents honor their history while looking forward to a bright future.

This New Year’s Eve, let’s raise a glass to this lively metropolis in honor of the Bluff City’s bicentennial.

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Rockabilly Rides

Immerse yourself in the rich musical history of Memphis while cruising around in a dreamy classic car.

Sun Studio

The legendary Sun Studio is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll. Tour the halls where Elvis, B.B. King and Johnny Cash recorded some of their most famous hits.

Stax Museum

This studio-turned-museum is where Southern soul music legends such as Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding made a name for themselves.

Beale Street

Known as America’s most iconic street, Beale Street is home to year-round music festivals, holiday events and parades. You can expect to find something fun no matter when you visit.

Live music

If you couldn’t already tell, Memphis is all about the music. Venues throughout the city and even humble street corners are the perfect places to hear local musicians.

Peabody Rooftop Party

Every Thursday from April through August, Rooftop Party-goers at the Peabody Hotel enjoy live music, refreshing drinks and sky-high views of the Mississippi River.

Peabody Hotel

Speaking of the Peabody, why not stay there on your next visit to Memphis? It’s more than just a hotel — it’s a historic landmark with old-school charm and an endearing obsession with ducks.

Peabody duck march

Come see what the Peabody is most famous for: its daily duck march. The whole family will love this quirky attraction.

Explore bike sharing

Memphis’ new Explore Bike Share program allows visitors to soak up the sights while getting a little exercise.

Big River Crossing

Walk or bike over Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River, which links Tennessee and Arkansas.

Crosstown Concourse

Hang out at the Crosstown Concourse, an old Sears distribution center converted into a mixed-use vertical urban village.

Broad Avenue Arts District

Visit more than 70 locally owned businesses here, where you can get a drink, buy some art and browse unique souvenir displays.

Overton Square

Midtown Memphis is home to Overton Square, where you can eat and drink to your heart’s content and even sign up for an art tour.

Eat good food!

Whether you love barbecue or you’re a die-hard vegan, you’ll find a restaurant to suit your tastes in Memphis.

National Civil Rights Museum

Built on the site where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, this museum takes you through five centuries of history, from the early days of slavery to the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

These are just a few of the amazing things to do in Memphis, Tennessee, so start making your plans today!

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So, what makes “A Christmas Carol” such a special outing for the entire family? This play has it all ― singing, dancing and a heartwarming message that really brings the holiday spirit to life. It also invites conversation with your children about the true meaning of Christmas.

This year, performances for “A Christmas Carol” in Memphis are scheduled to start November 30 and end on December 23.

Showtimes are as follows:

• Evenings at 7 p.m.
• Matinees at 3 p.m.

Prices:

• Adult: $35
• Student: $15
• Military and Seniors: $30

There are also several special events scheduled for this year’s “A Christmas Carol” in Memphis, including:

• A reunion night on November 30 at 7 p.m. for previous cast and crew members of nighttime productions of “A Christmas Carol.”
• “Holiday for Heroes” on December 13 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for teachers, first responders, firefighters, police officers and members of the military who live in and around Shelby County. There is a limit of four per family.

Tickets for “A Christmas Carol in Memphis” are available at the box office, 901-682-8323, or you can also purchase them online through the theater’s website.

Theatre Memphis, which is one of the oldest and most successful community theaters in the United States, is located in the heart of the city. So, make sure to take some time before or after your performance to grab a bite to eat with your family in one of our great restaurants.

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Here are the most important details you need to know:

WHO:

YOU are invited to be part of this incredible event! It is open to anyone, but if you are an educator or a business professional, you are especially encouraged to attend. Come make a lasting impact on the next generation of leaders and innovators in this country who could look back on this night as pivotal in their career.

WHAT:

Pitch Night is the exciting, fast-paced culmination of a 16-week finalist program. It is a fun opportunity for hard-working high school students to showcase the ventures they’ve created to build the future of Memphis. You will be invited to engage with the innovations and the leaders who created them. Vote to select the grand prize winner, and have a direct hand in helping to select thousands of dollars in additional funding for the best student ideas.

Light refreshments will be available.

Even better: Encourage students to use their full potential to change the world.

WHERE:

Join us in the McCallum Ballroom, Bryan Campus Life Center at Rhodes College. Address: 2000 North Parkway, Memphis, 38112

Free parking is available in the Rhodes campus parking lots. There are two lots within a short, one-minute walk to the Bryan Campus Life Center.

Tickets are $10 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the skills development and entrepreneurial ideas of future LITE students.

WHEN:

Thursday, December 6, at 5:30 p.m.

• 5:30 – 6:00: Hear from 27 different students as they share elevator pitches at their booths.
• 6:00 – 7:00: Watch eight finalists pitch on stage for the chance at funding.

WHY:

Because you could inspire a student to dream big  AND improve a city you love. What could be better than that?

LITE has been named one of the five most innovative grassroots organizations driving change in the country by The Renewal Project. Forbes magazine has named it one of the 20 ideas that can change the world. This program has already helped over 2,000 students in Memphis develop and strengthen their entrepreneurial skills.

WHY WAIT?

Get a head start! Between now and Nov. 30 at 11:59 p.m., you are invited to vote for your favorite ideas here. Meet the young innovators and help decide who should pitch on the Pitch Night stage! These students want your vote!

Purchase your tickets here. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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There is always something wonderful happening right here in Memphis. We are a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. That’s what drives this unstoppable city. With so much going on, we sometimes miss the stories that make this city great. Don’t worry, here is a recap of the week!

Celebrate Fall Festival & Heritage Day 2018

Enjoy sunshine and exercise with Explore Bike Share Memphis!

Memphis, get 25% off your order when you type in this code to our store!

Promo Code:  Soul25

Featured Memphian

Jesse McDonald

Memphis is a city of movers, doers, and shakers. See how this Memphian brings his soul to Memphis here!

Ready to Share Your Story?

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Share a piece of your originality, positive change and soul!

Be sure to keep an eye on our website for the latest Memphis news!

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For those of you who have never used a bike-sharing network before, here’s what to know about Explore Bike Share before taking your first cycling trip.

What is bike sharing?

A bike-sharing program is a service that involves bikes being stored in transit hubs across a city and made available to rent through the use of an app. Such programs give users the freedom associated with having a bike without the hassle of managing the upkeep. Although bike-sharing was conceived in Amsterdam in 1965, with free-use white bicycles left unchained throughout the city, it wasn’t until 1995 that bikes were made available to rent through a coin-operated payment system. Similar programs soon followed suit and the practice has grown exponentially, with many bike-sharing programs owning over a thousand bikes per city.

About Explore Bike Share

Explore Bike Share is a bike-sharing network that has recently come to Memphis, setting up shop so Memphians from all walks of life can enjoy a little cycling to break up their daily routine. Whether you’re a fitness junkie, a tourist, a commuter or anyone else interested in using a bike to get around, Explore Bike Share is waiting for you.

The Explore Bike Share system is broken down into four easy steps on the company’s website:

• Pay: Users can pay through the Explore Bike Share app on their phones, which makes the transaction quick and easy.
• Pick up: Users can pick up their bicycles at any of Memphis’ 60 bicycle hubs.
• Pedal: Enjoy your time on the bike! If you’re looking to explore, visit memphistravel.com to find the best Memphis attractions.
• Put up: Just bring the bike back to any designated bike station and continue with your day.

Anyone interested in making use of the Explore Bike Share network can rent a bike per use or on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis.

 

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Improve your quality of life with bike sharing

The benefits of cycling are well documented and include improvements to both physical and mental health. Indeed, people who bicycle regularly often notice mood boosts from exercise and exposure to sunlight while also experiencing improved lung function, reduced heart disease and cancer risk, increased muscle growth and weight loss. What’s more, regular cycling is said to improve navigational skills, spatial awareness and brain power.

Additional resources

• Learn more about Explore Bike Share
• An interactive history of bike-sharing
• The health benefits of cycling

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What is Fall Festival and Heritage Day?

The Fall Festival and Heritage Day celebration is an event held in Millington, TN, to celebrate the culture and history of the Mid-South. It was created to promote heritage, culture and appreciation of the outdoors through the support of local businesses and the community.

Events taking place

Fall Festival and Heritage Day has dozens of activities to suit attendees of all ages. The major must-sees include a Civil War camp display, a frontier town complete with period dress and historical demonstrations, a vendors’ village, wildlife shows and pontoon boat tours. Attendees can even experience stone-carving, leatherworking, archery, and atlatl-throwing games.

If you’re bringing children, they won’t want to miss going on hayrides and kiddie train rides, playing on a moon bounce, getting their faces painted or playing knocker balls.

How do I attend?

Mid-South visitors and residents can attend the 2018 Fall Festival and Heritage Day for free by simply showing up at the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park’s Poplar Tree Lake Nature Center on Nov. 10. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and, as mentioned, has no entry cost.

Additional resources

• Volunteer as a program participant by emailing samantha.cox@tn.gov
• A map to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Explore Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Learn more about Fall Festival & Heritage Day 2018

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Imagine that after a long job hunt, you’ve landed a position with great benefits. After three months with the company, you attend a benefit enrollment session. The HR representative gives you a heavy packet and says all needed information can be found inside. What would you do if you couldn’t read the information provided? Would you ask for help in a room filled with your coworkers or stay silent? Would you take a guess at the best option hoping it’s the right plan for you and your family?

Basic literacy skills are required to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Think about reading prescription labels, medical paperwork, and job applications. The ability to read and write at a 6th-grade level is a quality of life issue affecting more than 100,000 adults in our community.

The ability to read and write at a 6th-grade level is a quality of life issue affecting more than 100,000 adults in our community.

Now, imagine you’re a 4th grader who reads on a 2nd grade level. You’ve managed to make it this far despite the stress, anxiety, and isolation that often comes with low literacy. What would you do if the language on your standardized test, in your textbook, and your daily worksheet was too difficult to understand? What if your parents also read at a 2nd grade level? Would you become the class clown so everyone would focus on your behavior and not your schoolwork?

76% of 4th graders in Shelby County left 3rd grade without reading on grade level. 3rd grade is the final year students are taught to read. It is assumed and expected that all students are reading at grade level by the end of 3rd grade. Unfortunately, this is not the case in Shelby County.

Literacy Mid-South is transforming Grind City into a community engaged in lifelong learning.

Literacy Mid-South provides education resources to children and adults of all ages and backgrounds. They serve as a literacy hub for local nonprofits by providing them with the tools needed to influence literacy education in Memphis. Literacy Mid-South provides a platform for local organizations to collaborate and maximize their impact on the community. They address low literacy through two programs: The Adult Learning Program and Read901.

Literacy Mid-South is the only organization in Memphis providing adult basic education services to the 100,000+ adults reading at or below a 6th-grade level. They have a dedicated team of 250+ trained volunteer tutors facilitating both one-on-one and classroom sessions for over 600 Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning learners. More than 80% of learners have reached their personal and academic goals.

The Adult Learning Program supports learners like Darlene, who dreams of one day becoming a Pharmacy Technician. Darlene always knew she struggled with reading, but never imagined she was on a 3rd grade level until entering the Adult Learning Program. Darlene was matched with a one-on-one tutor and quickly began making progress. She moved up 3 reading levels every year for four years and exited the program reading at a 10th-grade level!

Read901 is a citywide initiative on one of the most important indicators of academic success: grade-level reading by the end of 3rd grade. Read901 combines the strength of community-based organizations, funders, city agencies, and corporations around 3rd grade reading proficiency. Through partnerships with the Boys and Girls Club, Memphis Athletic Ministries, the Refugee Empowerment Program, Streets Ministries, and many others, Read 901 provides out of school time literacy education to over 3,500 students in Shelby County.

Read901 helps partner organizations bridge the gap between student’s current reading levels and their academic success. Without their support, students like 9-year-old old Sandibel would continue to fall behind in school. When Sandibel entered the program, she tested at a very low reading level. She has since made great strides, even surpassing some of the students that entered the program with her. Now, Sanidibel has empowered herself to become an extremely successful reader and wants to be a police officer one day. Her love of reading has also impacted her family. Sandibel reads a bedtime story to her two baby brothers every night! A love of reading like Sandibel’s is contagious, and Literacy Mid-South is helping it spread to every corner of the city.

Want to join Literacy Mid-South in transforming Grind City into a community actively engaged in lifelong learning? Click Here to get involved!

Sign up to participate in the upcoming New Tutor Training Session on November 10th.

Visit their website at www.LiteracyMidSouth.org to learn more or contact the Literacy Mid-South Team.

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What is the Cooper-Young Beerfest?

The Cooper-Young Beerfest is a fundraising event for the Cooper-Young Community Association (CYCA), meaning the money it brings in goes straight to the community. And what better way to support one of the most eclectic neighborhoods in Memphis than by drinking some beer?

Where is the Beerfest?

As in previous years, the 2018 Cooper-Young Beerfest will be held at Midtown Autowerks, located at 795 S. Cooper St. near the intersection of Cooper St. and Central Ave.

When is the Beerfest being held?

If you know anything about beer, you know that Oktoberfest is a big deal. With that in mind, it only makes sense that this year’s Cooper-Young Beerfest is set to be held on Oct. 20.

How much is admission?

During the month of September, tickets to the Cooper-Young Beerfest are available for $45. If you’re holding off on buying, don’t wait too long, as the price will go up to $50 after Oct. 1!

What can you do at the Beerfest?

As its name suggests, the Cooper-Young Beerfest’s main attraction is… you guessed it, beer. Be sure to sample the numerous craft beers on offer, and if you want a break from beer, check out the single cider location.

Heading into its ninth year, the Cooper-Young Beerfest is a top fall attraction in Memphis that’s not to be missed!

More information

For more information, check out the Cooper-Young Beerfest website.

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Memphis is filled with history, not unlike tequila, and is as diverse as the more than 1,000 different tequila brands. Just as the people of Memphis work together to create, tequila serves as the base of many mixed drinks. Given these commonalities, it isn’t surprising that a tequila festival is held every year in our city. Here’s what you need to know about the second annual Memphis Tequila Festival:

More than just tequila

First off, don’t worry if you aren’t necessarily a big fan of tequila, as other adult beverages will be available alongside an array of enjoyable activities and delicious food. After all, we are Memphis so we know all about good eats and good fun.

Tasting

Along with admission, your ticket buys 15 tequila tastings. Enjoy some of the top labels and perhaps a new surprise brand or two.

Activities

While you must be 21 to get into the 2018 Memphis Tequila Festival, there’s no shortage of fun things for big kids to do!  A hot local Memphis DJ will rock the night, and activities like face painting will be available.

Food and beverage

Tacos, food vendors and a cash bar with beer and cocktails – what more do you need for a great night? Be sure to grab a bite to eat during the festival to go with all that tasty tequila!

A real Memphis experience

Don’t be surprised if this year’s Memphis Tequila Festival includes more than a few spooky surprises. Kicking off less than two weeks before Halloween, this event is smack-dab in the middle of the season of the macabre. If last year’s inaugural festival is anything to go by, there’ll be a real sense of community on display, which makes the festival a great way for visitors to get an idea of the who and what of Memphis. Before long, you’ll understand why we proudly say, “We are Memphis.”

If you love tequila, like trying different brands of alcohol or just want to enjoy some music, food and fun in one of the most amazing cities in the world, this is your official invitation to the 2018 Memphis Tequila Festival. The festival is set to be held in Overton Square on Friday, Oct. 19 – hope to see you there!

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The Big River Presents-sponsored Mempho Music Festival is all set to treat fans who attend its inaugural ceremony on Oct. 6, and the fun will continue through Oct. 7. The event will be held at the famous Shelby Farms Park and is set to feature good food, live performances by award-winning artists and more.

In addition to seeing Grammy Award-winning artists Beck and Phoenix, attendees will witness hip-hop legend Post Malone in action, as well as live performances by the Grammy-nominated Funkstress and indie rock supernova prince Mac DeMarco. This year, the festival will pay tribute to Memphis heritage by honoring the award-winning and globally renowned Royal Studios. For many years, Royal Studios in Memphis hosted music sessions with notable and award-winning artists.

The Mempho Music Festival’s philanthropic partner, the nonprofit organization Mempho Matters, works locally to promote humanitarian movements, raise awareness of social issues and positively impact the local community through educational programs, music, and charity-based art education. Plus, the organization is planning to provide complimentary Mempho Music festival admission to Memphis-area music teachers and their students.

In addition, the 2018 Mempho Music Festival will partner with the Oceanic Global Foundation to promote ocean safety, as well as with the Memphis Area Women’s Council on the Memphis Says No More safety initiative. This means the festive ground will be straw-free this year to support the noble ocean safety campaign.

As well as enjoying the live musical performances, Mempho Fest attendees can also take advantage of the on-site camping opportunities and the outdoor activity options available within the Shelby Farms Park. Adventure seekers can delve into various park activities such as biking, zip lining, and canoeing.

To experience this unique event for yourself, secure your GA, VIP or Super VIP admission while tickets last. Come and join us for this biggest music celebration!

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Summer is ending, which means the advent of fall is well underway. And while summer is known as a time for vacations and excursions, the changing of the seasons should never mean Memphians have to abandon fun trips and weekend events.

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Being a future-oriented city means starting early. Building upon the fact that Tennessee has sought to step up the quality and accessibility of STEM education at the primary and secondary levels, Memphis has made some contributions of its own. Indeed, two Shelby County schools—Maxine Smith STEAM Academy and Whitehaven Elementary School—are now designated as STEM schools by the state, while the Memphis Virtual STEM Academy invites talented high-schoolers from around the county to study with teachers who have engineering degrees and access to laboratory facilities.

Efforts such as these are designed to make the transition to college-level STEM studies a smooth one, but there is also a need to facilitate the move from college to the working world. With this in mind, the University of Memphis partnered with the National Science Foundation to create MemphiSTEM, a program that offers STEM majors academic support, provides research and networking opportunities, helps students remain in rigorous majors and works to ensure that such students graduate with job prospects in hand.

Manufacturing, logistics and shipping have always been a core focus of port city economics, which is something the Tennessee and Egyptian iterations of Memphis have in common. With an increasingly automated manufacturing sector to contend with, the Bluff City’s workforce will need new engineers and analysts to keep up with today’s need for efficiency. What’s more, businesses following the lead of nationwide and even global companies that have established hubs in Memphis will need STEM majors’ assistance to meet logistical and technological challenges with elegant and innovative solutions.

If you’re looking for a STEM-related job in Memphis, chances are good that someone’s looking for you—and if you’re interested in earning a STEM degree, Memphis is a great place to do it.

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FedEx is offering free tuition for Memphis-based employees to earn an online degree from the University of Memphis. The partnership will also allow employees who lack a high school diploma to earn a high school-equivalent degree. According to the University of Memphis, about 11,000 employees will be eligible to take advantage of free tuition inspired by FedEx (LiFE) program. The online program will be a big help to Memphis-based FedEx employees as the university offers 60 graduate and undergraduate degree programs online.

For more information regarding this story, click here!

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Known as the “South’s Grand Hotel,” The Peabody won 1st Place among a field of 20 historic hotels from around the country. The Peabody was the only hotel in Tennessee to be nominated.

The top ten winners in the ’Best Historic Hotel’ category are as follows:

(Full List Here: http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-historic-hotel/)

1. The Peabody Memphis
2. Grand Hotel
3. The Broadmoor
4. Marriott Syracuse Downtown
5. Deer Path Inn
6. Hotel Emma
7. West Baden Springs Hotel
8. Zero George Street
9. Wentworth Mansion
10. The Royal Hawaiian

“We placed in the Top 3 for the last two years, so we are beyond excited to have taken home the top prize this year,” said President of Peabody Hotels & Resorts Douglas V. Browne.

A Forbes 4-Star, AAA 4-Diamond property, The Peabody has also been named the #1 Hotel in Tennessee by Southern Living (2017), among the “Top Hotels in the South” by Conde Nast Traveler (2016), and “Best Historic Hotel” by Historic Hotels of America (2015). The Peabody has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1977.

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Just ask the 102 new players who recently joined the NBA 2K league draft, among whom are the inaugural class of the Memphis Grizzlies gaming team.

HISTORY! Here’s a look at our first pick in the @NBA2KLeague Draft: Winner_Stayz_On pic.twitter.com/2nlndXJfFE

— Grizz Gaming (@GrizzGaming) April 4, 2018

How does it all work?

The popularity of esports has soared in the past few years as gaming became increasingly versatile, challenging and engaging. Today, the NBA 2K esports league boasts professional gamers from across the country who are drafted by NBA to engage in a national tournament.

Players earn a salary of more than $30,000 and are given housing, products to facilitate their gameplay and the chance to earn prizes from a pool of over $1 million.

Much like big-name basketball players, NBA 2K gamers are true professionals who spend hours perfecting their craft. In fact, most draftees and members of the league spend eight to 12 hours a day practicing, analyzing plays and sharpening their competitive edge.

Introducing the inaugural class of gamer Grizzlies

After the Memphis Grizzlies drafted the inaugural class of gamers just a few months back, the team had the 15th overall pick in the draft. Post-draft, general manager Lang Whitaker said he “got all the players [he] wanted” and is excited about the upcoming tournament. Sounds like the Grizzlies gaming team is ready to put our city on the esports map.

Your 2018 @NBA2KLeague draft class! pic.twitter.com/ZC18FcycZV

— Kofie (@KofieYeboah) April 4, 2018

Impact on Memphis and Memphians

Whatever the tournament’s outcome, one thing’s for sure: The recent draftees to the Grizzlies team are slated for a life-changing experience, with many players quitting their jobs, putting school on hold and moving to Memphis.

In the process, the city itself will be exposed to an array of growth opportunities, with local businesses taking advantage of advertising and Memphians of all stripes jumping on the gaming bandwagon. Watch this space!

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Wrapping up another beautiful day in Memphis and ready to welcome a new one tomorrow for our city on the rise. ——— 📷: @sundayinmemphis ——– Want to be featured on our page? DM us! #BringYourSoul #WeAreMemphis

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From watching live music to a Hawaiian-themed happy hour, there’s plenty to do in these parts as the weather gets warmer. Here are some things to do in Memphis this summer that will keep you busy and entertained.

Attend the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival

Historically, warm weather brings out the best of our city’s talent, and 2018 is set to be no exception. This year, the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival will be attended by more than 30,000 people eager to enjoy two days and five stages of the most exciting music in town.

That said, the festival isn’t solely about music—in fact, you can immerse yourself in Memphis arts, crafts, exciting storytelling and more. Mark your calendar for the first weekend in September.

Enjoy happy hour at Tsunami

For most Memphians school lets out for the summer, but work does not. But you can still kick back with friends after a long day at the office! Did you know local hot spot Tsunami is undergoing extensive renovations ahead of a new and exciting Hawaiian-themed happy hour that reflects the spirit of resting after work? Called Pau Hana Time, this seasonal event will run from June to November. Feel free to visit Tsunami for tasty bites after work and a range of refreshing drinks at reduced prices.

Fan of the outdoors? Here’s a list of the top outdoor activities in Memphis!!

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Can’t get over how epic Crosstown Concourse looks in this shot from @ldsworld_. Follow the Memphian photographer to see how he captures more of your favorite hotspots as well as the people who make up the Bluff City. ——— 📷: @ldsworld_ ——– Want to be featured on our page? DM us! #BringYourSoul #WeAreMemphis

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1. Celebrate local urban artists at the second annual Artsy Awards, taking place Friday, June 22, through Sunday, June 24.
2. Fuse your appreciation for Japanese art and Memphis culture by dropping by the Cook Convention Center for Anime Blues Con during the last weekend of June.
3. Reconnect with nature while enjoying the fare from your favorite food trucks at one of the Memphis Botanic Garden’s Food Truck Garden Parties.
4. Revel in your shared love of one of our city’s most famous residents by attending Elvis Week 2018. This August’s event will be packed with impersonators, musicians and, of course, many of The King’s biggest fans.
5. Crack up with Jerry Seinfeld when the legendary comedian swings into town on Friday, June 29.
6. Whet your appetite at Whet Thursdays, a free, after-hours, open-to-the-public event that takes place at the Metal Museum on the first Thursday of the month from April through October.
7. Switch up your workout routine and get ready for swimsuit season at iLoveKickboxing.
8. Support the Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park all summer long. Be sure to take advantage of $2 beers on Thirsty Thursdays, and don’t forget to check out the list of similar promotions!
9. Attend the inaugural Butcher Board Festival in July, which is set to feature the best meats, pickled foods, fruits, sweets and cheeses from around these parts.
10. Experience arts, crafts and music from around the country at the Cooper-Young Festival on Saturday, Sept. 15. Billed as “Memphis’ most anticipated outdoor celebration,” the festival is in its 31st year and going strong.
11. Take in new and old classics at the Orpheum’s summer film festival.
12. Get your golf on at one of eight disc golf courses located in Memphis.
13. Head out to the Christian Brothers High School soccer field to watch the Memphis City Football Club in action.
14. Jam to some live music with the Memphis skyline as your backdrop via the Peabody Rooftop Party concert series.
15. Break out your lederhosen for Germantown Oktoberfest at the Germantown Civic Center.
16. Winter is coming… in July? Get down to Westeros (a.k.a. the Rec Room) to watch the return of “Game of Thrones.”
17. Beat the heat with some paleta at La Michoacana.
18. Learn about the Lower Mississippi River—or just cool off at the scale model of Big Muddy—when you visit Mud Island River Park.
19. BYOB and tour downtown or midtown with 16 of your closest friends aboard a River City Pedalers party bike.
20. Cool off with a Memphis original at Jerry’s Sno Cones
21. If you’re a music aficionado, you must tour Sun Studio, which has been referred to as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll due to its connections with many of the genre’s most legendary musicians.
22. The Delta Fair & Music Festival is happening from August 31 to September 9, and it’s not to be missed! Enjoy carnival rides, culinary exhibits, livestock judging and a range of other exciting, educational and interactive things to see and do.
23. The 29th Annual International Goat Days Festival has been a Millington, Tennessee, tradition for the last 29 years and this year’s event takes place Sept. 7 to Sept. 8. Enjoy live music, incredible food, fun games and rides, an antique tractor show, and goats galore.
24. The Zoo Rendezvous on Sept.8 is the Memphis zoo’s largest fundraiser of the year. Drop by to enjoy entertainment on four stages while you contribute to a good cause.
25. Take a self-guided tour of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum which is packed with over 300 minutes of information and features more than 100 songs.
26. Drop by the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid to experience one of the craziest places you will visit while in Memphis. The shop is inside a giant pyramid that also houses what feels like an adult playground, complete with an aquarium, bowling alley and the five star Big Cypress Lodge resort.
27. The Crystal Shrine Grotto located at Memorial Park Cemetery, is a manmade cave filled with quartz crystals and unique religious sculptures. Created by a Mexican artist over the course of 50 years, this magnificent attraction boasts free admission.
28. Take a walk down Beale Street. While it might look like any other tourist destination, there is more to it. Eat a juicy burger cooked in 100 year old grease at Dyer’s and enjoy a world-class concert at the New Daisy Theater among other fun things.
29. If you have kids, be sure to drop by the Peabody Hotel in Downtown Memphis to watch the famous Peabody Ducks go to and from the hotel fountain in a grand procession complete with a red carpet and paparazzi.
30. Do you love nature? If the answer is yes, take a trip to Lichterman Nature Center and enjoy 65 acres of forest, lake and meadow.

With numerous Memphis events happening all year round, the list above highlighted just a few things to do in Memphis during your visit.

No matter what you’re into, there’s plenty to see and do in Memphis. Take your pick from the options listed above or chart your own course of adventure through the Bluff City.

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Welcome to Memphis, the city of soul. This unique photo was taken by Memphian cinematographer and photographer David Roseberry who frees his soul by taking hold of the adventures in Memphis. Follow @theoutlierlife and see how he experiences Memphis. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ——— 📷: @theoutlierlife ——– Want to be featured on our page? DM us! #BringYourSoul #WeAreMemphis

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Brooks Museum

Situated in historic Overton Park, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art was founded in 1916 and houses the oldest and largest major collection of world art in Tennessee. The museum features more than 10,000 works from Ancient Greek and Roman artists, Renaissance masters, early American painters, cutting-edge art world disruptors and more.

Photo Credit: Brooks Museum’s Facebook

Box Gallery

The student-run Box Gallery is one of the premier places for Memphis art students to display their work. Located on the first level of the Arts & Communication building on the University of Memphis campus, it’s the best place to check out the works of young up-and-coming artists in Memphis.

Photo Credit: Box Gallery’s Facebook

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

When Hugo and Margaret Dixon founded the Dixon Gallery and Gardens in 1976, they combined an expansive fine art museum with a beautifully manicured public garden. Spanning 17 acres in the heart of Memphis, the garden and arboretum offer spectacular natural scenery, while the museum is home to more than 2,000 works ranging from French impressionist paintings to a 600-piece collection of German decorative porcelain.

Photo Credit: Dixon Family Garden’s Facebook

Withers Collection Museum and Gallery

Celebrating the lifelong work of Memphis-born photographer Ernest Withers, the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery preserves and displays this legendary artist’s priceless portfolio. Withers, who spent much of his life as a photojournalist, passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of work that captures 60 years of African American history in the South.

Photo Credit: Withers Collection Museum and Gallery’s Facebook

Memphis Murals

You don’t have to go to a museum or gallery to see great art in Memphis, as urban art is everywhere. From the Artery Murals in Barboro Alley to Main Street’s Sound of Memphis Mural, the dozens of spectacular murals in our city make up one of America’s most impressive collections of street art.

Photo Credit: Downtown Memphis

Metal Museum

As the only museum in the United States devoted entirely to metalwork, the Metal Museum boasts a huge array of architectural ironwork, jewelry and sculpture, and regularly hosts exhibits by nationally and internationally renowned metalsmiths. The Metal Museum’s grounds come complete with 100-year-old trees and stunning outdoor sculptures, and are open to the public free of charge. Did we mention that this museum offers one of the city’s best views of the Mississippi River?

Photo Credit: Metal Museum’s Facebook

Memphis Botanic Garden

Spanning 96 stunning acres of meadows, trees, ponds and gardens, the landscape at the Memphis Botanic Garden is a work of art in itself—one that you can immerse yourself in any day of the week. Meanwhile, on-site galleries at the Memphis Botanic Garden show off an ever-changing lineup of exhibits by local and national artists.

Photo Credit: Memphis Botanic Garden’s Facebook

Flicker Street Studio

The classes and workshops at Flicker Street Studio prove that art is for everyone. The studio offers an opportunity to explore and create virtually every kind of art under the sun, from drawing and painting to printmaking and bookbinding. Flicker Street is a great place to learn and develop your artistic skills in a nurturing environment, while being supervised by some of Memphis’ most accomplished local artists.

For Memphis makers, musicians, artists and creators of all kinds, there’s no better place to call home than our fair city. If you’re ready to start exploring art in Memphis, you’ll find it everywhere you turn.

Photo Credit: Flicker Street Studio’s Facebook

For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!

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This year’s festival has already been one to remember, filled with amazing moments, music, meals and memories. Although the month of May is halfway done (if you can even believe it), there are still some events to look forward to!

901Fest

In its third year, the 901Fest is back bigger than ever! the festival hits Tom Lee Park on May 26 and promises to be a fun-filled celebration of all things Memphis—Memphis food, Memphis music, Memphis merchandise and more. Get ready for amazing music and fun games like the first 901Fest Cornhole Tournament! The gates open at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 26.  Click here to get tickets, and be sure to check out this recap of last year’s 901Fest!

Photo Credit: 901Fest Facebook

The Great American Half Marathon & 5K

Since its inception in 2016, The Great American Half Marathon & 5K has quickly become a beloved Memphis event. Runners from around the country pound the pavement alongside locals of varying skill levels while the less athletically inclined cheer them on. Every participant gets a branded T-shirt, and all who make it to the finish line will receive a medal. Did we mention that this event takes place on the banks of the Mississippi? Talk about a picturesque backdrop.

If you live here, work here or are just visiting these parts, be sure to drop by the Memphis in May International Festival before the calendar flips.

Photo Credit: Great American River Run Half Marathon & 5K Facebook

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901Fest 2018

After a successful 2017 festival, we couldn’t be happier to welcome back 901Fest! Now in its third year, the festival hits Tom Lee Park on May 26 and promises to be a fun-filled celebration of all things Memphis—Memphis food, Memphis music, Memphis merchandise and more.

Live music

Given that Memphis is the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, any celebration in these parts wouldn’t be a real Memphis party without great music. Rest assured, 901Fest will deliver the goods in the form of an incredible lineup of home-grown talent performing on multiple stages. This year’s performers include hip-hop duo 8Ball & MJG, the bluesy five-piece Southern Avenue Band, IHeartMemphis, the Mighty Souls Brass Band and more. So no need to type “concerts near me,” come to the event!

Fun and games

Get ready for the first 901Fest Cornhole Tournament, as well as a chance to bounce around inside a Knockerball (it’s as much fun to watch as it is to do). Don’t miss the air show above the Mississippi River followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

Dozens of food trucks will be on location to offer a wide variety of Memphis staples, from Johnson’s BBQ and Shuck’s Grilled Corn to Polar Tropical Shaved Ice and Memphis Soft Serve.  Don’t forget to mingle with the local artists and craftspeople who’ll be on hand with a tremendous variety of unique handmade items. Check out the full vendor list here.

Get ready for 901Fest

The gates open at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 26, which is coming up quick—do you have your tickets yet? If not, they’re available now, and admission is free for participants of the Great American River Run taking place earlier in the day. Click here to get tickets, and be sure to check out this recap of last year’s 901Fest!

901Fest marks the beginning of summer in Memphis, and we can hardly wait. What’s more, it’s the final music event of Memphis in May, a month-long celebration of all things Memphis. Join us for the festivities, then stick around for the rest of this fun-filled season!

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Experience the Big River

The 2018 Great American River Run kicks off in Memphis on Saturday, May 26. Whether you plan to participate in the 5K or half marathon or simply want to encourage the runners and take in the festivities, this event is not to be missed! The half marathon is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. and will be followed by the 5K at 7:30 a.m.

The half marathon course follows a beautiful path along the banks of the Mississippi River, while the 5K takes runners on a scenic tour through the heart of Downtown Memphis. Both races start and finish at Tom Lee Park, which is located at 357 Riverside Drive. Race maps of last year’s route are available online, where you’ll also find answers to all your questions about the race.

Photo Credit: Great American River Run

After the race

Arguably the best part of the Great American River Run is the after-party. This year, 901Fest—Memphis’ awesome 901-themed Memorial Day bash—takes place right after the race. Enjoy food and cold brews next to the Mississippi River, bounce around in Knockerballs and then stick around for the fireworks and air show. There’s a host of musical talent scheduled for the event, including Southern Avenue, 8Ball & MJG, iHeartMemphis and Mighty Soul Brass Band.

Tickets to 901Fest are available for anyone who wishes to attend, and Great American River Run participants get to partake in the festivities for free. Check out the 901Fest website to learn more!

Get involved

Registration for the 2018 Great American River Run is now open online, and people of all levels—from beginning runners to professional athletes—are eligible to enter. Discounts for the 5K and half marathon are available for active duty and retired military personnel. Every participant in the race will receive a soft-style race shirt, and all runners who cross the finish line will receive a medal. Cash prizes are also up for grabs (details TBA).

Check out the recap of last year’s race here, and keep up with the latest announcements by following the Great American River Run Facebook page.

Memphis in May

The Great American River Run is part of the Memphis in May International Festival. This lineup of events taking place in Memphis throughout the month of May also includes the Beale Street Music Festival on May 4 to May 6 and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest on May 16 to May 19.

Lace up your running shoes for the Great American River Run, and don’t forget to enjoy our city at the post-race 901Fest. Be sure to check back to learn more about all the happenings in Memphis throughout the year!

Looking for more thins Memphis? Check this out!

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Memphis graduates, here are the top 5 things to know when job-hunting

Artist Spotlight: Lawrence Matthews III

Experience the amazing photography of Memphian Lawrence Matthews III, and learn how Memphis influences his art.

Top 7 local Memphis breweries you have to try!

Looking to quench your thirst? Here are the best local Memphis breweries you have to try!

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis this week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Artist Spotlight: Marcella & Her Lovers

Have you experienced the amazing music of Marcella & Her Lovers? Hear how she brings her soul into every beat.

Memphis must-see: Big River Crossing

Big River Crossing is a must-see when visiting Memphis. Check out this amazing piece of architecture along the mighty Mississippi River.

A salute to the Czech Republic at Memphis in May

Memphis in May has a new featured country this year: the Czech Republic. See how the festival will be honoring this country and learn about all the cool things you can check out.​

I’m Just A Tourist Here, Too: A Love Letter to Memphis Music

Memphis is a place that speaks to your soul, creating a connection that’s everlasting. Check out this love letter to the city of Memphis from one of our own.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

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Event programming varies from year to year depending on the country and culture being celebrated; through celebrations and education, the festival has always been focused on bringing the world closer to our own front door. In addition, it contributes to community growth by fostering civic pride and helping local residents discover something new about Memphis at the same time. This year, the array of things to see and do will kick off with the Beale Street Music Festival on May 4.

An international salute

Following the Beale Street Music Festival, it’s time to jump right into recognizing this year’s honored country! A full list of upcoming events can be found on the Memphis in May website, including the following:

• From May 7 to May 13, the International Salute to the Czech Republic will encompass Memphis schools, libraries, museums, art galleries and community centers.
• On May 10, the Orpheum combines Czech cuisine with a performance by Prague’s own Epoque Quartet.
• From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on May 12, renowned chef Zdenek Pohlreich is set to bring a taste of his home country to Chez Phillipe, located inside the Peabody Hotel.
• Throughout the month, the National Civil Rights Museum will feature a photography exhibit on the overthrow of communism in the Czech Republic in the late 1980s.
• Indie Memphis plans to screen a different film each week that highlights Czech cinema.

Educational opportunities

Memphis schools are gearing up to honor the Czech Republic with a host of creative activities. Middle- and high-schoolers will be preparing PowerPoint presentations for a competition to showcase their newly acquired knowledge, students in grades 4 through 12 can participate in a creative writing competition, while elementary students have the opportunity to express themselves by artistically depicting scenes from Czech history.

For more information on the special events set to take place throughout Memphis this May, keep an eye on the Memphis in May website.

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The festival takes place in the 33-acre Tom Lee Park, with the Mississippi River as the backdrop to the music. There will be four music areas in total, with three main stages and a blues tent delivering three days of tunes and fun at what will be the 41st annual Beale Street Music Festival. Even though the event takes place in Tom Lee Park, it takes place at the end of Beale Street (which is located inside the park), hence its name.

The very first Beale Street Music Festival was held at the corner of Beale Street and Third Street in 1977, the year after Memphis in May was launched. However, at that time, another musical celebration—the Sunset Symphony—held court in Tom Lee Park, which was much smaller and seldom used.

By 1990, the Beale Street Music Festival had officially become part of Memphis in May. As it had outgrown the Beale and Third location, it moved to Tom Lee Park and embraced the Memphis in May ethos of bringing a true multicultural music experience to the banks of the Mississippi.

While Beale Street may be most famous for the blues, artists performing at the Beale Street Music Festival cross all genres. Rockers Jack White, Queens of the Stone Age, Odesza, Cake and Incubus will share the stage with Ludacris, Action Bronson, Erykah Badu and the North Mississippi All-Stars. Also appearing will be David Byrne, Gov’t Mule, Alanis Morissette, The Flaming Lips, Third Eye Blind and Dashboard Confessional. Meanwhile, in the blues tent, festival-goers can experience performers such as Earl “The Pearl” Banks, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Sam Joyner and Jimmy “Duck” Holmes.

Advance tickets for the event are currently available online, and can also be purchased at the park on the day of the show. Tickets are available for single days or for the entire event, and three-day passes are available at a discounted price until April 30. There is no age restriction—all ages are welcome!

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The purpose of the strike was to take a stand in favor of higher wages and better working conditions. When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made his fateful journey to Memphis, he came to support the striking workers in their efforts. As we commemorate 50 years since Dr. King was assassinated, it’s important to remember how far the struggle has come and how far we have yet to go.

On April 5th, one day after the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s death, the city of Memphis unveiled it’s I AM A Man Plaza. A crowd of over 200 people came to take part in this historic event to reflect on honor the cost of justice. Boarding the plaza is a marble wall with the names of the 1,300 sanitation workers who participated in the strike. It is a site to behold that is both beautiful and tells the story of Memphis’ past

As a joint undertaking by the city and the UrbanArt Commission, the project was led locally by Memphis landscape artist John Jackson, with artwork by Garten Studios of California. Local poet and spoken word artist Steve Fox authored the text to be etched into the stone monument that is also part of the plaza. The total cost of the installation was around $1.5 million, with $700,000 of that provided by grants and donations.

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We have our share of musical landmarks, as famous artists like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Otis Redding and more have called Memphis home. But present-day Memphis is also experiencing a musical renaissance that new artists want to be a part of.

A dollar goes further in Memphis

Once you’ve sold a million records, you can live anywhere you want. If you’re just getting your start in the music industry, however, the world isn’t quite your oyster—yet. That said, music industry jobs in Memphis pay fairly well, coming in at around 79 percent of the average national salary. It also helps that Memphis is one of the cheapest big cities to live in, regardless of what you do for a living.

The live music scene

Beale Street is one of the biggest reasons Memphis has such a reputation for being a musician’s city. While the highlight is B.B. King’s Blues Club, the downtown street is lined with venues featuring live music on any given day of the week. And, who knows? Maybe you’ll see your name in lights on Beale sooner rather than later.

An eclectic musical mix

Seattle’s got grunge, New York and Los Angeles have hip-hop and rock, and Nashville is the home of country music. While Memphis is known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and the home of the blues, today’s Memphis music scene boasts a bit of everything.

For instance, 8ball & MJG put Memphis hip-hop on the map in the ‘90s, then Three 6 Mafia picked up the mantle around the turn of the century. If punk is more your jam, Goner Records is home to a loyal and talented group of punk musicians. Whatever you’re into, you’re bound to find your people in Memphis.

Famous music studios

Electrophonic Records and Goner Records may be the current hot spots, but the studios of old have a major presence in Memphis to this day. Why not take a tour of Sun Studio, which became ground zero for rock ‘n’ roll? Alternatively, head on over to the site of Stax Records, which was home to artists such as Otis Redding and Booker T & the M.G.’s in the 1960s.

A lower cost of living

Compared to Nashville, New York and Los Angeles, the cost of living in Memphis is much more reasonable. What does that mean for you? Less time hustling to make ends meet and more opportunities to focus on your art.

Myriad music studios

The iconic Sun Studio is a cornerstone of Memphis music, but it’s by no means the only recording studio in town. Electrophonic Records and Goner Records are just two of the enterprises putting the next generation of Memphis musicians on the map. Could you be one of those musicians?

A vibrant live music scene

Music has been rated the biggest tourist attraction in Memphis, and it’s not hard to see why. In fact, there’s live music playing on Beale Street pretty much any time of the day that you visit, with countless clubs roaring to life each night. To catch large acts and national tours, stop by the nearby FedEx Forum.

Support for the arts

Music is the heart and soul of this city, so it’s no surprise that the arts receive a lot of support from residents and municipal funding alike. The numerous arts and music festivals hosted in these parts offer ample opportunities to showcase new talent—including your own.

A rich music history

It feels like an understatement to say Memphis has a rich musical history. There’s nothing like looking back at the past to get inspired for the future, and reacquainting yourself with the stories of Memphis music legends who made it big will help you do just that.

A lower cost of education

Memphis colleges charge lower tuition fees compared to many of their counterparts, and the selection of art schools in the city is ideal for upcoming songwriters eager to add a string or two to their bows.

Livability

Livability—the balance between work and social life—tends to quickly fall by the wayside in many cities, but not Memphis. If you’re considering a move to Memphis, you can rest assured that it’s a well-balanced city offering both business opportunities and a wide range of social activities.

Friendly people

The people of Memphis are warm and friendly, which will help newly relocated artists stave off homesickness and assimilate into new personal and professional networks. Newcomers to the Bluff City are warmly welcomed and embraced by everyone, but don’t just take our word for it—come see for yourself.

A cultural mix

Memphis is filled with different people from all walks of life, each with their own assorted backgrounds and customs. This yields a social and cultural mix that has inspired many a local musician to experiment with sound and rhythm.

You can find your inspiration

Memphis’ musical past gives the present a profoundly soulful feel. There’s just something about living at the crossroads of an urban vibe mingled with the slow rhythms of southern living that lends itself to the small-town feel and close-knit community that have been inspiring artists in Memphis for years.

Looking for musical inspiration in Memphis? Check this out!

The post 14 reasons why upcoming songwriters need to move to Memphis! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

One of the ways that Memphis plans on implementing positive change is with the Year to Volunteer effort led by Volunteer Odyssey as part of the #BringYourSoul movement. Year To Volunteer will continue the commemoration of Dr. King and his legacy with a yearlong initiative to mobilize a culture of volunteerism in Memphis. The goal is to engage 10,000 volunteers across the community, generate 85,000 hours of service, and create over $2 million in economic impact by Memphis’ bicentennial in 2019. And now we are challenging you to embody the legacy of Dr. King for the next 365 days and beyond.

The Volunteer Odyssey website will have new service opportunities listed on the 15^th of every month, and you can track your volunteer hours through their site. As the numbers rise, their impact tracking system will allow Memphians to see the impact they’re having on this city. Volunteer Odyssey has also created new service days for the city to get involved; on October 19^th there will be a day of service for corporations and on October 20^th a day of service for individuals and families.

Memphis is revved up for the coming year and we are ready to do even more to make a positive change in our community. We’ve already been named the “Most Charitable City in the Country,” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy magazine in Washington D.C., but we can do even more than that. Dr. King came to our city with a message and a vision of how Memphis could be. Now is the time to make that dream a reality. Inside all of us is the ability to make a positive change in our community, to give the best of yourself to change the world around you. It’s time to bring that energy to the forefront, Memphis. It’s time to #BringYourSoul.

Find Your Year To Volunteer event now.

The post A year to volunteer in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.

McKissick, now age 79, is a Memphian through and through. A native of North Memphis, she graduated from Douglass High School and received her teacher training through her years studying at historically black LeMoyne-Owen College and the University of Memphis, then known as Memphis State.

Like McKissick’s teaching career, Georgia Avenue, which closed several years ago, was brand new in 1960. McKissick, who comes from a family of teachers, entered the classroom with tremendous enthusiasm and passion for education.

But she also felt a strong sense of duty to nurture and provide a safe space for the children entrusted to her care each day, particularly during a time of tremendous upheaval in Memphis.

In 1968, when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. traveled to Memphis to support the sanitation workers’ struggle for equal pay and safer working conditions, McKissick was teaching at Lincoln Junior High, located in an impoverished African American community.  All 800 students at the school were black, as were all faculty members, except for four white teachers.

“The kids did know, in a sense, what was happening, but they weren’t as aware because they didn’t have television — we didn’t have that much news,” said McKissick, who taught at Lincoln for 14 years. “There was not a lot of discussion around it, but we knew something was going to happen for the sanitation workers.”

McKissick had first-hand insight into developments in the community because of her father’s involvement in the civil rights movement.

“He wanted us to be part of the movement, as he was when he was a Firestone worker,” she said. “We watched him create changes there at Firestone. He’s the one who integrated the cafeteria there.” There were eight kids in my family, and we were aware of the struggles – the segregation and everything that was going on, maybe more so than other young people because of our dad.”

McKissick said civil unrest spread throughout the community, and the NAACP began organizing Black Monday boycotts against Memphis City Schools. Students and teachers throughout the city protested inequality in the classroom by boycotting schools on Mondays, and black workers from various sectors across the city joined them in a show of solidarity.

“We started to have turmoil throughout the communities,” she said. “On Black Mondays, teachers and staff members were encouraged to stay away from school to honor what was going on at that time.”

McKissick, however, remained at Lincoln on Mondays for children who needed a safe space.

“I did not stay away,” she said. “I would go to school but still honor what was going on…I felt I needed to be at school with my kids because I knew they were fearful, and they felt safe at school. Our school didn’t have many kids who were absent during those turbulent times because a lot of our teachers were at school. It was scary, but we assured them we were there to keep them safe.”

On April 4, 1968, McKissick learned through a radio broadcast that Dr. King had been assassinated at the Lorraine Motel.

“We were stunned that it happened,” she said. “The children had questions about why it happened and what was going on, and we tried to get them to understand that things were changing, as Dr. King had talked about in his speeches. Change had to come, but he wanted things to be peaceful. And we told them we wanted everything to be peaceful at school.”

During her 58 years in Memphis’ public schools, McKissick has witnessed more change than any other educator in the city – from segregation to integration to re-segregation.

“Things have changed quite a bit — from bussing kids from their communities to other places in an attempt to bring about some equality in education so they can all be prepared for the future. For some it worked well, while others found themselves back in their previous situation, in the re-segregation of schools, because many white kids did not attend those schools.”

Today, McKissick is principal of Avon Lenox High School, where she works with young adults with special needs.

“I love what I do and believe I made a difference in the lives of a lot of kids. I would say to young educators that there is hope. We have a lot of work to do. It’s our responsibility to prepare our children.”

The post Memphis’ Longest-Serving Public Educator on MLK50 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Wednesday, April 4, will be a day of remembrance across the city. During the black sanitation workers’ movement, there was a call for change that needed a voice, and Dr. King provided it. Ultimately, he gave his life in service to our community. Although we will remember what came before, April 4 will also be a day of looking forward.

At 10 a.m., a daylong celebration of Dr. King’s legacy will begin on the Main Stage in the museum courtyard at the National Civil Rights Museum, featuring music, dance and spoken word performances. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

Also on April 4, an anniversary ceremony will be held from the balcony of the Lorraine Motel. Wreath-laying, music and spoken word performances, and an ecumenical liturgy will lead up to the time at which Dr. King was shot—6:01 p.m. At this point, a bell will toll to mark the exact passing of 50 years since that fateful day. Across the nation, the bells of schools, churches, and colleges will ring 39 times—once for each year of Dr. King’s life. 

Following the bell toll, MLK50 will conclude with An Evening of Storytelling, with veterans from the front lines of the fight for civil rights both yesterday and today taking the stage at the Crosstown Concourse to reflect upon the fight up to this point as well as what lies ahead. The evening will focus on the main question of MLK50—”Where do we go from here?”—with a moderated discussion, music, and dance to celebrate Dr. King and what he continues to mean to the city of Memphis.

For more information on all scheduled activities for the April 4 commemoration, check out the MLK50 website.

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Building Foundations

The lack of access to healthcare in Tennessee was exacerbated when the Tennessee legislature chose not to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Healthcare Act in 2015.  In Memphis, however, local organization Church Health has helped fill the void for those who work but have no insurance. This extensive health operation provides care, extends compassion and provides resources to 70,000 workers and their families across the community.

Since its inception in 1987, Church Health has been committed to healing bodies and spirits, so people can enjoy the full richness of life.  Distinguished by a commitment to whole-body health and compassion, what began as a small medical clinic located in a house in Midtown Memphis gradually grew to a comprehensive operation occupying thirteen facilities.

In 2017, Church Health consolidated its facilities under one roof, relocating to Crosstown Concourse, a redeveloped Sears distribution center. As the anchor tenant, Church Health provides high-quality, affordable medical care, dental care, eye care, behavioral health services, nutrition programs, physical therapy, wellness and children’s programs. Church Health works closely with the 42 dynamic entities within Crosstown Concourse that focus on health, education, and the arts, sharing in a commitment to be “better together.”

Church Health employs 20 medical providers and engages 1,000 volunteer physicians.  Primary care services are offered onsite while sub-specialist physicians care for patients in their offices and in hospitals without charging patients. In addition, diagnostic services and in-patient hospitalization are offered to Church Health patients, who will not incur any cost for care.

Their services are offered without relying on federal funding. Memphis ranks as one of the most charitable cities in America, and the work of Church Health reflects the incredible generosity present in this city.

Church Health’s approach to healthcare centers on a belief that health is not about the absence of disease, but instead, it is about helping others live a wholesome life. Church Health has developed a Model for Healthy Living, which asserts that there are seven elements that are equally important for a healthy life and must be in balance: movement, nutrition, work, faith, family and friends, emotions, and medical care. The Church Health programming and services are driven by the understanding of these elements.

Wholesome Living

Nutritional programs are facilitated in partnership with the Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine at Tulane University, emphasizing the concept that “food is medicine.” Both healthcare providers and students are trained to understand the significance of balanced nutrition through courses aimed to build the skills and confidence to educate patients about food selection, preparation, and consumption.

Church Health’s dental program focuses on restoring patients’ smiles, oral health, and emotional well-being. Frequently, restored dental health leads to a patient’s improved sense of self-worth and ultimately to a higher-paying job offering health insurance.

A family medicine residency is housed at Church Health in partnership with the Baptist Memorial Health Care Family Medicine Program. The three-year training program attracts young physicians who want to serve the underserved, understand spiritual well-being, and care for patients through prevention and a whole-person approach.  The desire to learn in this environment is stunning: the most recent class of residents was selected from an applicant pool of 1,800.

Community Impact

In addition, Church Health runs Perea Pre-School in a neighborhood north of Crosstown Concourse and the organization will open an elementary school in 2018.   A charter high school will open this fall in the Crosstown Concourse. Following these openings, the teachers and young doctors will work in concert to care for families from birth through high school graduation.

Crosstown Concourse is the sixth former Sears distribution center to have been fully renovated, following successful efforts in Seattle, Minneapolis, Dallas, Boston, and Atlanta.  The Memphis endeavor, however, was directly inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King’s notion of creating “a beloved community” by working collaboratively to serve the city.

As a result, the culmination of the events commemorating Dr. King’s life and legacy and marking fifty years since his assassination will take place at Crosstown Concourse the evening of April 4^th.  While this will be a night to remember Dr. King, it will present an opportunity for Memphis to look around and see what is possible when a community has faith, shares vision, persists, and comes together in efforts to follow his dream.

The post Church Health Helps Build MLK’s ‘Beloved Community’ appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Over the past five decades, Memphis has seen its fair share of change and growth. That said, a portion of that growth into newer and trendier areas has left behind and sometimes pushed out Memphians. The danger in this is that as trendy areas sprout up, often in traditionally minority neighborhoods, the new and costly developments price out old residents. Without an intentional strategy of how to ally redevelopment projects and new residents with old residents, Memphis is at risk of excluding some Memphians from being able to access the future of the city’s expansion, and, of course, any exclusion of peoples in this new city would certainly not honor the legacy of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

In the second half of the 20th century, the population of Memphis grew, but so did its spread. As the outer suburbs of Memphis, such as Germantown and Bartlett, saw their populations and vitality grow and improve, the inner areas of Memphis witnessed stagnation. During this time, city planning focused more on the growth of the suburbs and less on the core districts of the city. As a result, there was a lack of investment in many minority areas, including North and South Memphis.

Now, after nearly four decades without a comprehensive city plan, Memphis 3.0 is seeking to recraft what the city will look like heading into its third century. When the last such plan for Memphis development was written and implemented, the trend in the city was to move farther and farther east. Today, Memphis 3.0 aims to see a strengthened core as well as growth and empowerment occurring in the northern and southern areas of Memphis in addition to the eastern areas.

Along with the plethora of ideas coming from the nonprofit sector for how to improve the city, Memphis 3.0 has sought to directly gain the input of city residents from the fourteen districts of Memphis. Memphis 3.0 has enlisted three locally-based artists to facilitate responses from residents on what improvements they wish to see in their communities. While striking up conversations with city residents using their art, these three artists have been able to ask complex questions in simple ways so that city planners can develop the Memphis 3.0 plan to better serve the people of this city. Dividing the fourteen Memphis districts between the three of them, the small crew of artists has spent ten weeks in each district to which they were assigned gathering data on residents’ needs, wants, and likes about their communities. The district data-gathering projects are set to conclude this summer after having begun in late 2017.

Though not a conventional approach to gaining resident feedback, embedding artists into Memphis communities is a valuable tool used by Memphis 3.0 to gather data on how city residents are really feeling about their neighborhoods and what they want to see improved. These artists have been able to engage with residents in ways that city planners cannot using art as a medium to illicit the thoughts and opinions of many Memphians. The significance of the artists’ presence and their work is that many residents of neighborhoods that were ignored or overlooked by the last sizable city planning initiative now have the chance to have their voices heard by those who will write the next plan for the city. Perhaps for the first time in Memphis’ history, the city is making an effort to gather and incorporate the thoughts of Memphians who have long been told how their neighborhoods will be developed rather than asked.

One of these artists, Yancy Villa-Calvo, has engaged with Memphians through her project GEMS (Go Explore Memphis Soul). In this project she has created a map of Memphis gems and has used it to ask city residents to share which parts of their communities they would consider gems and then to place tiny gems on her illustrated map over the spot that they treasure. Through this project, Villa-Calvo has sought not only to gather data points on people’s feelings towards their communities but to capture the stories that Memphians have regarding their city and their neighborhoods. Her care for the stories of regular Memphians has become a valuable asset in designing the Memphis of the future for these residents and for countless others.

Memphis 3.0 has stated on their website, “No one is more important to this [city planning] process than Memphians themselves because the best experts about our neighborhoods are the people in them.” With this belief and basis for action of those who will plan and implement the first comprehensive city plan for Memphis in nearly 40 years, then our city has the potential to become a more representative and livable place for all of its people.

The post Issues and Innovators: City Planning appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Helping our kids prosper

Dr. King’s historic speech

From now to April 16, you can visit the University of Memphis to view Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s original “We Shall Overcome” speech. It’s a moving experience you don’t want to miss out on.

Shark Tank winners to open a physical store in Memphis

These sisters are showing the world what Memphis soul looks like through their innovative spirit. If you’re in the Binghampton neighborhood, make sure to #BringYourSoul to Angels and Tomboys.

Scholarships for sanitation workers families

At Saturday’s MLK50 Honors Ceremony, the City of Memphis announced the I AM A MAN Scholarship Fund for families of sanitation workers.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis this week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The New York Times visited Memphis in commemoration of the 50^th anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther Link Jr.

The I AM A MAN Plaza Sculpture is right around the corner, and the Urban Art Commission released a sneak peek video!

Our city continues to thrive, and we continue to be the epicenter of change. Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date with everything Memphis.

The post We Are Memphis Weekly Recap appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Continuing the Fight

When minimum wage workers marched on February 12, 2018, it wasn’t just in remembrance of MLK50 or the efforts of the black sanitation workers all those years ago; it was instead to improve their own situation and carry on the fight. Their demands? A minimum wage of $15 per hour and the right to unionize.

Memphis may have been the focus on February 12, but it was not the only city that saw minimum wage employees take to the streets. Two dozen cities throughout the mid-South saw minimum wage walkouts and strikes that same day. In Memphis, nearly 1500 workers followed the same route sanitation workers did in 1968, marching from Clayborn Temple to Memphis City Hall. The minimum wage workers in Memphis were joined by many who support their cause.

• Reverends Dr. William Barber II and Dr. Liz Theoharis, co-chairs of the Poor People’s Campaign
• President of the Service Employees International Union, Mary Kay Henry
• A coalition of Black Trade Unionists founder Bill Lucy
• Original sanitation workers who walked in 1968

A Groundbreaking Movement

When the sanitation workers marched in 1968, they sought better working conditions in addition to a $2 per hour raise, a pay rate that would equate to $15.73 today, adjusted for inflation. Those sanitation workers in 1968 carried signs declaring “I AM A MAN,” and the current movement that is drawing inspiration from them has taken to carrying their own signs. Updated for the internet age, protestors are able to design their own signs, replacing the “MAN” of the original signs with whichever descriptor they choose.

While the sanitation workers of 1968 were singularly black men, today’s effort to improve working conditions for minimum wage workers are not singularly bound by skin color. However, people of color remain over-represented among them. More than half of African American and 60 percent of Latino employees in the fast-food industry alone make less than $15 per hour.

The fight that began on the streets of Memphis 50 years ago continues today, decades later.

See the video of the Memphis March below:

The post The fight for $15 on the anniversary of Memphis sanitation strike appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Memphis Black Restaurant Week Sets Dates

This year’s week is March 5 through March 11. For those curious about exploring the restaurant culture of Memphis, it represents a roadmap through some of the most revered establishments in town.

Daniels created Memphis Black Restaurant Week after discussion with local black-owned restaurants seemed to point towards one thing. While many enjoyed a good word-of-mouth reputation around town, they lacked the marketing resources and acumen to really effectively market their business.

To that end, Daniels perceived a need. By themselves, they couldn’t invest much in marketing to really call attention to themselves. Together, however, their shared resources allowed them to more aggressively market themselves collectively under the Black Restaurant Week banner.

2018 Lineup

• HM Dessert Lounge
• The Office Uptown
• Scoops Parlor
• Two Vegan Sisters
• Chef Tam’s Underground Cafe
• G Alston
• Lenny ‘s Subs
• Slice of Soul Pizza Lounge
• Laura’s Kitchen
• A&R BBQ
• The Waffle Iron

Making a Difference for the Memphis Community

In its maiden voyage, Daniels didn’t expect a big financial gain from her efforts, instead simply focusing on teaching the business owners how to manage their marketing budgets most effectively. To her surprise, it was a huge success, increasing profits for the restaurants a total of $85k for the week. The restaurants involved this year will again enjoy a great level of exposure, and for those new restaurants, it will represent a chance to make a good first impression. All told, Daniels’ Black Restaurant Week has featured 22 restaurants and accounted for an increase in sales of $260k for those participating, and most importantly, the creation of 90 new jobs.

For more information on Memphis Black Restaurant Week, check this out!

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Openings are basically big parties. There’s sure to be a crowd, odds are you can meet the artist(s), and at the very least you’ll get a free drink. If you miss the opening, no big deal – shows typically run anywhere from two days to a month. Visit during normal gallery hours when you can view the work in more serene conditions and possibly discuss the work with the curator.

The best nights are when there are so many openings that you have to make a plan of attack in order to see them all.

Want to know the best way to get in the loop on local art openings? Elizabeth Alley, whose “Two Stories of Iceland” is currently on display at Crosstown Arts, says that The Memphis Flyer has always been good about listing art openings, but these days she primarily uses Facebook. “I make sure to follow the ‘main’ galleries in town – L Ross, David Lusk, Jay Etkin, Crosstown Arts, Orange Mound Gallery, plus schools – U of M has two galleries, and CBU, Rhodes, and MCA all have galleries,” she says.

Alex Paulus, another local artist, says, “The best places to go are David Lusk, Crosstown Arts, and Tops. I think those are the 3 best galleries in Memphis right now. They’re showing really interesting work.”

Tops Gallery in the Madison Avenue Pocket Park. La Boheme by Motoko Fukuyama (showing until March 10).

Tops is located in the basement of the Jack Robinson Gallery and has an ancillary gallery in the Madison Avenue Pocket Park. While the artists who show there are not always local, curator Matt Ducklo (who is also a celebrated photographer) chooses unique and cutting edge contemporary work to highlight. Right now, you can see La Boheme featuring the multi-media art of Motoko Fukuyama. The gallery is only open on Saturdays from 1-6pm, but you can view her work in the park gallery 24/7.

Alley believes that it’s important for both artists and non-artists to go to shows. “If you are an artist, it is important to go to see what other artists are up to. There is a lot to learn from seeing a gallery show – are there local trends? How is this artist choosing to display their sculpture/drawing/installation? It is also a great way to meet other artists – there are so many artists in town that I know because I met them at an art opening,” she says.

If you are not an artist, Alleys says it is important to go to show your support for artists and local art. “And you can learn things and meet artists, too! Ideally you will buy something, plus there is usually free wine,” she says.

Crosstown Arts gets the best snack award. “The last show I went to there had bacon wrapped dates and potato skins!” exclaims Paulus. In terms of art, he offers an important etiquette tip: “Don’t touch the art, unless you are specifically instructed to do so by the artist.”

Here’s Alley’s primer on what to do once you are there:

Enter the gallery, do a quick survey of the room, then choose a place to start. Look at the art, but don’t fret about studying it (art openings are for socializing as much as they are for learning something, and often people are standing in the way of the art anyway). Make your way to the wine, relax, look at the price list. Drink more wine, buy something.

Buying local art is a great investment. Often, galleries will do payment plans so don’t be shy if there’s something that you really love but cannot afford all at once. Most galleries do get a percentage of the selling price. However, artists who show at Crosstown Arts keep 100% of their proceeds.

Alley also encourages visitors to say something to the artist if they see them. “We want to hear from you and part of our job requirement is to be able to talk about our art,” she says.

Many galleries like Lusk and L Ross will schedule artist talks with the artists currently on display, so you can hear even more about their work. These talks are generally the second Saturday after the opening, but that can vary.

Familiarize yourself with the following galleries, follow them on Facebook, and watch your Fridays fill up!

Galleries

Art Museum of the University of Memphis (AMUM) 

Beverly and Sam Ross Gallery (Christian Brothers University)

Circuitous Succession 

Clough Hanson (Rhodes College)

Crosstown Arts

David Lusk

Dixon Gallery & Gardens

Jay Etkin

L Ross

Marshall Arts 

The Martha and Robert Fogelman Galleries of Contemporary Art

Orange Mound Gallery

Overton Park Gallery

Tops Gallery 

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