The Memphis 100 - 100 word stories & 100 second videos on topics of intrigue

Low- to No-Cost Medication Available in Memphis

Dr. Philip Baker talks with fellow pharmacist and Memphis medical icon, Dr. Charles Champion. (Photo courtesy of The Good Shepherd)

Memphis pharmacist Philip Baker believes that people, with or without insurance, often pay too much for prescription medication. So, Baker’s good deed is opening a nonprofit pharmacy, the Good Shepherd, focused on making medicine affordable.

Here’s how it works: Baker’s pharmacy provides a free check of your medications to see if he can cut your costs by enrolling you in his program, which includes more than 350 medications. The best part? If he can’t help, he’ll direct you to someone who can.

For Baker, Good Shepherd is more than a pharmacy; It’s a mission. Learn more at www.goodshephealth.com.

– Renee Malone, Publisher

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Sports

Mid-South Man Is Tennessee’s First Tour de France Competitor

A west Tennessee man is making cycling history as one of just three Americans participating in the esteemed Tour de France.

Nate Brown, 25, earned a polka dot jersey, which is given to the cyclist dubbed “King of the Mountains” for gaining the most points while reaching mountain summits first.

Brown is clearly a natural, having learned to ride a bike by the age of two on back-country roads just outside Covington. Now, he wears a coveted Tour de France jersey.

Brown’s 21 days of cycling — a total of 2,200 miles — began right here in the Volunteer State.

– Kym Clark, WMC Action News 5

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Film

Arts Focus: Indie Wednesday Film Series

Indie Memphis' weekly screenings take place Wednesdays at Crosstown Arts, Malco's Studio on the Square and Ridgeway Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Indie Memphis)

Indie Memphis is best known for the Indie Memphis Film Festival, but the nonprofit also hosts year-round programs to inspire, encourage and promote independent films and filmmaking in the Bluff City.

Indie Memphis hosts weekly Wednesday film screenings at Crosstown Arts, Malco’s Studio on the Square and Ridgeway Theatre on a rotating basis. Films focus on everything from blues music to writers to politics, and include both documentaries and fictional films. Admission to screenings ranges from pay-what-you-can to $10.

Also, on Monday, August 14, Indie Memphis will host a special panel discussion with local film producers.

– Aisling Maki, KQ Communications

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Education

Summer Program Helps Immigrant Students Master English as a Second Language

While most Shelby County Schools students graduated in May, another group of students received a special graduation ceremony this July.

The SCS English as a Second Language, or ESL Summer Enrichment Program, helps young people who are new to the country and speak limited English. Some admit the language barrier makes school intimidating, but by the end of the program, they develop more confidence and comfort. In addition to English, teens learn math and social studies, such as the three branches of U.S. government.

“It’s the first time I’m in America, and I’m so happy,” said graduate John Lenge.

– Shelby County Schools

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Business

Leadership Memphis Opens 2017 FastTrack Class

Leadership Memphis' FastTrack class, for emerging leaders, begins in September. (Photo courtesy of Leadership Memphis)

Nicole Harris is now a Biloxi-based digital producer, but she gained a ton of experience while being a member of Leadership Memphis’ FastTrack class in 2012. The FastTrack program engages emerging, high-potential leaders who are hungry to make a difference in the community.

“The FastTrack program at Leadership Memphis is the gateway to leadership in every possible way,” Harris said. “I walked away with a deeper appreciation for my community and a greater sense of purpose.”

Now is the chance to join a life-changing program, which runs September through December. Get more information and application instructions here.

– Leadership Memphis

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Sports

On and off the Court: NBA Star Returns Home to Teach Life Lessons

A basketball star from Memphis is helping influence local kids on and off the court this summer.

NBA player Tarik Black, who attended Ridgeway High School before playing for the University of Memphis Tigers and Los Angeles Lakers, led the Transformation 50 Basketball and Life Skills Camp, which he hopes will help improve relationships with law enforcement.

The camp kicked off at Ridgeway, where Black coached the boys in basketball and talked about the importance of receiving an education, networking, dating and police relations. Black hopes this will bridge the gap in communication between officers and the communities they serve.

– Kym Clark, WMC Action News 5

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children

Mississippi Boulevard Church Will Distribute 1,000 Back-to-School Backpacks

Mississippi Blvd. Christian Church's Back-to-School Fair will offer free health services and backpacks for 1,000 local school children.

With local kids heading back to school Aug. 7, Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church is preparing to host a free Back-to-School and Community Health Fair, July 29 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on its Midtown campus.

Free health services, such as dental and hearing screenings, pre-K screenings and immunizations, will be available on-site, so be sure to bring your child’s immunization record. The church will distribute 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Get ready for school at this one-stop shop! For more information, click here.

– Natalie Shinault, KQ Communications

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technology

No Excuses: Aaptiv Puts the Personal Trainer in Your Pocket

Aaptiv lets you choose from nearly two dozen trainers and hundreds of fitness classes. (Photo courtesy of Aaptiv.com)

For years, I’ve struggled to keep up my gym game. One moment, I’m spinning my heart out; the next, I’ve fallen off the workout wagon. But, I’ve found fresh motivation in the form of Aaptiv, which lets me carry personal trainers in my pocket.

This awesome audio app lets you choose from nearly two dozen trainers and hundreds of strength and cardio workouts to suit busy people of all fitness levels and interests. Classes include yoga, indoor cycling, strength training, ab workouts, 5K training, maternity and stroller workouts. It also features smoothie recipes, nearly 40 meditations and a great playlist.

– Aisling Maki, KQ Communications

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Education

Two SCS Teachers Selected for State Policy Fellowship

Soya Moore and Meah King (not pictured) are two SCS teachers selected for a state fellowship focused on policy change. (Photo courtesy of Shelby County Schools)

The work of Shelby County Schools’ teachers Meah King and Soya Moore won’t just impact SCS students this year. The duo, who were named State Collaborative on Reforming Education Fellows, will be advocating for all of Tennessee’s students.

King, a 15-year veteran, teaches 11th grade English at East High. Moore, an eighth grade math teacher at Raleigh Egypt Middle, has been teaching for seven years.

The fellowship is a yearlong program that empowers educators to advocate for their students without taking teachers out of the classroom. They influence education policy by delivering speeches and inviting policymakers into their classrooms.

– Kristin Tallent, Shelby County Schools

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music

Gospel Youth Choir Workshop Draws Teens From Across the Mid-South

Youth performing with gospel recording artist Jonathan Nelson (Photo Courtesy of David Brown)

In July, more than 200 local teens and parents attended a citywide, first-of-its-kind youth choir workshop facilitated by respected, award-winning gospel recording artist Jonathan Nelson.

The free workshop, which was sponsored by Brown Missionary Baptist Church, drew aspiring young singers, ages 13-18, from Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi to learn vocal techniques and develop performance skills.

“This workshop advances Brown’s mission of investing and empowering the next generation of leaders,” said Senior Pastor Bartholomew Orr. “The Mid-South has a rich tradition of gospel music and we want to capitalize on that through our young people.”

– David Brown, KQ Communcations

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living

Grizzlies Honor Z-Bo by Retiring No. 50 Jersey

The Memphis Grizzlies will retire jersey No. 50 in honor of Zach Randolph's time in the Bluff City.

Grizz Nation will always have love for Zach Randolph.

After the news came out that Z-Bo was off to a new home in Sacramento for the 2017-18 season, Grizzlies fans broke into tears, reminisced and thanked their favorite Grizzly for his eight years of service on and off the court.

To make this even more apparent, Grizzlies General Manager Chris Wallace and President Jason Wexler penned an open letter to Z-Bo as a thank you from the team and fans. To top that, the team states that no Grizzlies player will ever wear the No. 50 again.

– Kendall Kirkham, WMC Action News 5

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Business

Just Who Do You Think You Are?

Everybody knows Barbie and what she stands for. A personal brand communicates who you are, what you are good at and how you can help others. A brand is important to tell others what you stand for, allowing you to advance.

How do you identify your personal brand? It starts with figuring out some key things about yourself and how you would like to convey them. Think about your values, mission and unique strengths. With these pieces, you can start to tell your story.

A word of advice: maintain authenticity and avoid empty socializing, and success will follow.

– Betsie Gambel, The New Orleans 100

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marketing

Podcasts: Changing the Game

Apple's plans to make analytics available for podcasts could be a game-changer.

In today’s digital marketing age, analytics are everything.

And soon, the power of analytics to shape and rank content is coming to podcasts – already a medium with millions of listeners. Until now, podcasts have had few metrics, but when Apple launches podcast analytics later this year, marketers will gain valuable insights into how a podcast’s audience is engaging, such as:

– when and where people listen;

– if and when they stop listening;

– and whether they stay tuned for ads.

Analytics should make podcasts more appealing to marketers, in turn increasing financial support for podcasts – a win for marketers, producers and listeners.

– Kyle Parks, The Tampa Bay 100

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Reputations

The Importance of Continuing Education

Seek out opportunities to learn and you’ll see the benefits in your business.

Education is a lifelong journey; it doesn’t stop once you have a diploma in your hand. Whether you’re in communications, STEM fields, art or any other industry, there are always reasons to actively seek out new opportunities to learn and grow.

• Continued education places you at the forefront of new technologies and tactics. This will put you ahead of your competition and shows clients your innovation.

• Webinars and workshops provide opportunities to practice and refresh your skills you may not have used recently.

• Along with skill-building, you’ll mingle with like-minded professionals at these events and build your network.

– Natalie Ghidotti, The Arkansas 100

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Saving Memphis by Supporting All

Pictured (l-r): Evan Morrison and Mahal Burr

Mahal Burr and Evan Morrison became friends through Bridges USA and are now building bridges for Memphis youth facing adult crimes.

Graduate students Burr and Morrison are not excusing alleged crimes, but they are helping others realize that restorative justice is possible, equal treatment is deserved and everyone has potential.

Their work led to the development of Incarcerated Youth Speaking Out for Change (IYSOC), which is composed of youth awaiting trial in Shelby County.

IYSOC members receive training in leadership and public speaking to tell their stories in hopes of decreasing repeat offenses and creating a prison-to-opportunity pipeline.

— Renee Malone, KQ Communications

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Events

Memphis Music Legends Honored by SCS for Community Impact

Shelby County Schools honored five alumni who have soared in their careers and worked diligently to make an impact in their communities.

The annual Hall of Fame Gala celebrated the accomplishments of these inductees: founding member of The Bar-Kays James Alexander, Bar-Kays lead singer Larry Dodson, State Representative Johnnie R. Turner, former city and county official Shepperson “Shep” Wilbun and University of Memphis Director of Player Development Keelon Lawson.

The event, which was held at the Hilton Hotel Memphis, benefited SchoolSeed, a nonprofit organization supporting community efforts that positively impact students and teachers in the Greater Memphis community.

– Shelby County Schools

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Food

Healthy Eating Sprouts Up in Memphis

Sprouts, coming to the Bluff City this month, also offers recipes and shopping lists online.

Finally, healthy living with an affordable price tag just got a little bit closer for those of you living in the city. Sprouts Farmers Market, an indoor farmers market, will open at the corner of Poplar and South Perkins July 12.

The national chain is committed to providing customers with affordable foods and friendly, knowledgeable and engaging service every day.

Said to be a less expensive competitor of Whole Foods, Sprouts boasts features clean eaters and foodies alike will love, including: sandwich bar, salad bar, juice bar, beer, wine and much more. Check out the website at www.sprouts.com.

– Natalie Shinault, KQ Communications

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Business News

Bee Memphis Set to Empower the Bluff City

A group in Frayser created a new clothing line called “Bee Memphis,” which stands for “becoming economically empowered.” The owners say they want to reverse economic decline in the community due to the loss of jobs and residents in the area.

Organizers hope Bee Memphis becomes a manufacturing company and employs young people. For now, Bee Memphis apparel will be created at Union Grove Baptist church.

Beginners start in the workshop learning on commercial sewing machines before moving on to production. Bee Memphis organizers are also hoping President Trump keeps his word to make manufacturing the center of his presidency.

– Kym Clark, WMC Action News 5

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Food

Hometown Eatery, Alcenia’s, Featured in O Magazine

Alcenia's was recently featured in O Magazine as one of the nation's best restaurants. (Photo courtesy Brittney Elkins)

Owner B.J. Chester-Tamayo received the surprise of her life when a customer mentioned that her restaurant, Alcenia’s, had been featured in O Magazine. Alcenia’s is the only eatery in Tennessee to make the U.S. of Yum list, which highlights some of the best restaurants across the country.

Chester-Tamayo has been serving up scrumptious soul food for 20 years. If you’re lucky enough to check out her restaurant, located at 317 N. Main, be sure to try her world famous chicken or delectable collards.

Click here to learn more about Chester-Tamayo, her history and her restaurant.

– Brittney Elkins, KQ Communications

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children

Stewards of Children Educates Community to Keep Children Safe

The Memphis Child Advocacy Center's Stewards of Children program trains adults in our community to keep kids safe. (Photo courtesy of Memphis Child Advocacy Center)

The Memphis Child Advocacy Center now has a network of more than 18,000 Shelby County adults prepared to protect kids from child sexual abuse.

Stewards of Children, an evidence-based prevention program, trains parents and adults who work or volunteer with children at organizations such as schools, medical centers, places of worship and after-school groups.

The next training will take place Saturday, July 22, 9-11:30AM. The 2.5-hour training includes facilitator-led discussions, interactive workbook activities, and powerful videos featuring experts, parents and adult survivors of abuse. Visit their website for additional dates and information.

– Aisling Maki, KQ Communications

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Education

Principal Takes Command in Education

Principal Debra Martin was a career-long soldier before joining Shelby County Schools. (Photo courtesy of Shelby County Schools)

With a soft voice and nurturing presence, Alton Principal Debra Martin is the perfect fit to lead an elementary school and guide students.

But before, she was in command of soldiers. Once a Drill Sergeant, Martin retired from the U.S. Army as a Master Sergeant. She served her country for over 20 years, but knew her next mission would involve children.

“It was during my job as a recruiter, going to career days in elementary schools and recruiting in high schools, where I fell in love with the children, and knew I wanted to serve them next,” said Martin.

– Kristin Tallent, Shelby County Schools

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charity

International Paper Donates $200,000 to RISE Foundation’s Financial Literacy Programming

International Paper has awarded the RISE Foundation a $200,000 donation to support the organization's commitment to youth financial literacy in the Memphis community. (Photo courtesy RISE Foundation)

Memphis-based International Paper has donated $200,000 to support RISE Foundation’s Goal Card Program, designed to encourage academic excellence for students in the inner city.

The check was presented during RISE Foundation’s annual volunteer appreciation event, which recognized Goal Card coaches for their commitment to teaching students in grades 5-12 how to set and achieve academic, financial and life goals. The program has 44 volunteer coaches from International Paper and 10 from The Partners Financial Group – MassMutual.

RISE Foundation helps transform the lives of low-income youth, adults and senior citizens in Shelby County through financial literacy education.

– Aisling Maki, KQ Communications

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safety

‘Mid-South Hero’ Works With Dog in Local Search and Rescue Missions

Angela Fletcher and her dog Maddy volunteer together as a search and rescue team.

Rhodes College administrative assistant Angela Fletcher was recently profiled as a “Mid-South Hero” on WMC 5. When she’s not working, Angela volunteers with her dog, Maddy, as a search and rescue team for multiple counties across the Mid-South.

Angela rescued Maddy as a puppy. She was in poor condition and had a bullet in her leg that remains. When she learned Maddy was also starved as a puppy, Fletcher had an idea.

“That drive and motivation for food is what maintained her drive in locating lost and missing people,” she said.

Now, rescues are second nature to Maddy.

– Kendall Kirham, WMC Action News 5

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Events

Naturals in the City Health and Wellness Expo Returns to Memphis

This is the sixth year Naturals in the City will bring the best in natural hair care and wellness to Memphis.

Women with natural hair all over the Mid-South will meet up and experience the 6th Annual Naturals in the City Health and Wellness Expo presented by Design Essentials Naturals. The event will be held July 15-17 at Minglewood Hall in Midtown.

The expo offers the opportunity for attendees to participate in workshops and panel discussions, purchase from exclusive vendors, view natural haircare techniques and professional products/tools. The expo is not exclusive to women and girls with natural hair, but anyone interested in living a natural holistic way of life. Purchase tickets for $10 at www.naturalsinthecity.com.

– Natalie Shinault, KQ Communications

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Community

Colonial School Students Get Bass Pro Treat

Colonial School students go all in at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. (Photo courtesy of Kendall Kirkham)

A group of visually impaired students from the Colonial School were given a special opportunity at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid recently.

As part of a program by Temple Israel Women of Reform Judaism, the group got to participate in a fish feeding, received a behind-the-scenes tour and tried their hand at duck calls.

The organization has participated in the Adopt-a-School program for more than 30 years. This year, they adopted the school, which offers services like braille and reading instruction and education services for students enrolled in Shelby County Schools and some private schools.

– Kendall Kirkham, WMC Action News 5

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Nonprofits

Room in the Inn: Memphis Provides Comfort for Local Homeless

Volunteers check in to help at Room in the Inn - Memphis Courtesy of RITI Facebook

There is an organization that connects community with faith to decrease the homeless rate in Memphis — Room in the Inn (RITI). Volunteer-based, RITI gathers churches across the city that serve as host sites to offer the homeless hospitality and a comfortable night’s sleep, as well as help them take steps to permanent housing. Some sites include Calvary Episcopal Church, Heartsong Church and Trinity United Church.

Memphians who would like to help the cause can bring cash donations to the MemPops store at 1243 Ridgeway to help with operations and transportation maintenance. For more information, visit www.roomintheinn-memphis.org.

– Alisha Tillery, KQ Communications

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Business

Use Competition to Propel, Not Paralyze

Direct your competitive spirit inwards, as well as outwards.

Competition in business is inevitable, whether you are first to market with a new concept, product or service, or whether you are entering an existing playing field. What is optional, however, is your approach to it.

Competitive spirit, when harnessed properly, is a motivating force that can save us from complacency. But rather than direct it outwards, use it inwards to set clear objectives, targets and metrics. The best runners are not only trying to win the race, but also break their own record. Pushing yourself to peak performance is the best way to leave your competitors in the dust.

– Tara Rogers-Ellis, The Dubai 100

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Digital Age

Innovative Communications

Embracing new digital tools can enhance your company's communication strategies.

In any job, it’s important to make sure you have the right tools on hand to effectively share your message with co-workers, clients or the public. Take your company communication to the next level (beyond the traditional PowerPoint presentation) with these innovative, user-friendly programs:

• Uberflip: Transforms your PDFs into an interactive online magazine.

• Visme: Creates infographics by using a library of customizable templates and icons.

• GoAnimate: Builds animated videos in minutes, allowing you to choose your own soundtrack, cast of characters and more.

Pro tip: Track tool metrics to monitor how your audience is interacting with your content.

— Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC, Communications Manager, Cox Communications

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