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The Spirit of Memphis
 
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The Spirit of Memphis is strong in Memphians like “Jeopardy!” contestant Verlinda Johnson Henning and former FedEx exec Mike Glenn, who make the best of difficult situations. 

And it lives on in the achievements and memories of those who’ve passed on, and activists who fight the odds to protect our people and natural resources.

Volunteers pour it out on projects such as the courtyard at White Station High and the new “welcome” sign in Binghampton.

And then there’s Penny Hardaway, whose Memphis Tigers unify the city like nothing else.

 

We hope you enjoy these inspiring stories. If you’re a Daily Memphian subscriber, we appreciate your support. If not, please consider signing up for unlimited access to all of our local news coverage.

 
 
 

On June 8, 1999, Verlinda Johnson Henning’s husband, Darrell, died at the age of 45. Exactly 22 years later, Henning appeared as reigning champion on “Jeopardy!” It was just a coincidence, of course. But it helped her find balance on a very difficult day.

Related story:

Memphian is ‘Jeopardy!’ champion June 7, comes in second June 8

 

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When Mike Glenn retired from FedEx at the height of his career in 2016, the news release said it was to “transition his focus full time to his family.” This is the story behind that decision, one that is hard and beautiful all at once.

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Phil Bryant, who served millions of biscuits over the years, handed out free bacon to dogs and loved to spin a tale just for the fun of it, died on Memorial Day.

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Work colleague Simon Wadsworth recalls George Cates’s extraordinary attention to detail that went far beyond the balance sheet.

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Civic leader George Cates killed in airplane crash

George Edward Cates: 1937-2021

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Robert Fogelman was devoted to numerous civic causes, particularly providing support to the University of Memphis.

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A Memphis native, Charles McVean is credited with conceiving and leading the charge for funding Big River Crossing, the pedestrian bridge and trails across the Mississippi River.

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The Byhalia Connection Pipeline is over but a burgeoning environmental movement, with the city’s underground water aquifer at its center, remains. The road to that movement began with the rise of the city’s new activism several years ago, with some unexpected twists and turns along the way.

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What's next for the Memphis water movement

TVA's connection to a more complex water movement

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Voluntarism, labor and fundraising transformed an ugly space at the heart of White Station High into a beautiful passageway and courtyard. Nearly 100 alumni, students, faculty, administrators and friends gathered Saturday, June 5, to celebrate.

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The mosaic, expected to be ready later this summer, is located at the Binghampton Gateway Center.

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After several days of suspense amid reports of a potential departure to Orlando, Hardaway says he’s staying as coach of the Tigers, and Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown will be added to his staff.

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