Need a reminder that Memphis and Memphians are making big moves? Why didn’t you say so! Here, you can get a dose of dopamine with a couple of clips from local sources who are sharing good news that’ll get you hype for how the Bluff City is being badass!
Hot off the press:
Condé Nast told the world to travel to Memphis in 2023
“Nashville claims a lot of national buzz, but the city of Memphis has been quietly reshaping itself to be the hottest destination in Tennessee.”
Nestled between Melides, Portugal and Mendoza, Argentina on Condé Nast’s list of Best Places to Go in 2023, you’ll find our famed metropolis noted for all the newness that has come, and is to come, to Memphis’ Downtown & Midtown neighborhoods.
From Tom Lee Parks revolutionary renovations to the overwhelming surge of swanky over-night stays, Memphis is calling on folks to come find out what we’ve been boasting about.
GLORILLA GOES TO THE GRAMMYS
“The Yo Gotti protege has charmed listeners with her unique baritone drawl to the tune of two summer bangers and a Grammy nom. And she’s just getting started.”
From “F.N.F” to “Tomorrow 2,” Gloria Hallelujah Woods’ hard-hitting lyrics and raw Southern drawl has distinguished her as a Frayser-raised force to be reckoned with. The first aforementioned summer banger not only captured the attention of North Memphis MC, Yo Gotti—securing her a signed deal on CMG Records in July 2022—but the buzz behind Glo’s flow was loud enough to land her a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance.
Memphis activist recognized for Byhalia Pipeline Protest
“To God be the glory. I am the fourth son of teenage parents. I am the descendant of enslaved African Americans. I am a child of God. I am committed to serving people for the rest of my life. Thank you Root 100.”
Maybe you haven’t heard Justin J. Pearson’s name, but you’ve mostly definitely heard a little bit of his story told through his work to block the Byhalia Connection Oil Pipeline—a proposed project that would would cut through predominately Black neighborhoods in South Memphis.
Acting as Co-Founder of the Memphis Community Against Pollution, Pearson—among other local adversaries—campaigned for its cancellation, causing Memphians and more from across the nation to rally around the cause. In July 2022, the project was cancelled—and in December 2022, Pearson was praised for his work.
What do Lebron James, Keke Palmer, Trevor Noah, Zendaya Coleman, Lizzo, and Justin J. Pearson have in common? They’ve all been honored as The Root‘s 2022 “Most Influential Black Americans” for their impact, innovation, and leadership.
Ja Morant Make Moves with Nike: Shoe Coming Next summer
“Last season, just 24 players in the entire league had a signature shoe deal, which means Morant is joining elite company in the NBA shoe game.”
Hope you like Phantom green, Cobalt Bliss yellow, and Game Royal black!
Nike Ja 1s will be available for purchase Summer 2023.
Grizz Prep Educator Named Tennessee Charter Teacher of the Year
“You can mentor students and give back an hour of your time or an hour of your pay every month to support teachers like Mr. Walsh.”
Memphis educator Eddie Walsh has been nurturing young minds at Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School for 8 years. What better way to honor his diligence than with the 2022 Teacher of the Year award.
Memphis is a mecca for youth sports
“We’re excited to make that mix and the marriage of sports tourism and local programing and kind of provide a unique, one-of-a kind experience.”
The budding stars of Memphis youth sports are in for a treat as the Memphis Sports & Events Center has officially opened its doors. The 227,000 sq. ft. facility is the first phase of the Liberty Park project that will include apartments, commercial space, and entertainment experiences such as bowling, mini golf, and more.
The Center’s set up currently features 8 basketball courts that can be used for just about anything besides swimming and ice hockey—and plans are already underway to add a cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.
