Calkins: Hey, Memphians, there’s good news on COVID-19 (so you’re allowed to embrace it)
The experts are "optimistic and hopeful" about the trajectory of COVID-19 in Memphis. So you can be, too.
New coronavirus cases and testing jump locally
This is the fifth time in the past eight days, Shelby County reported at least 100 new coronavirus cases. The average is about 96 new cases a day as testing numbers over the same eight-day span is 1,407.
Voucher program draws support without a word
Tennessee’s Education Savings Account program drew support in Republican-controlled subcommittees Tuesday, May 26, 2020, with hardly a word.
County Commission tries once again to solidify the budget
The County Commission has until June 30 to approve a balanced operating budget for the county.
Clark Tower’s ownership is changing, tenants told
In-Rel Properties said in an email that the East Memphis landmark will change ownership due to the outcome of a legal case.
Collierville proposing flat tax rate for 2020-21 budget
Despite a decrease in sales tax revenue, Collierville is proposing a flat property tax rate. The tax rate will remain at $1.83 per $100 of assessed property value.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral School ends its high school program
The school was unable to withstand the impact of a world pandemic, economic recession and competition from other schools.
Grizzlies questions and answers as the NBA prepares for return
The NBA has been in discussions with the Walt Disney World about hosting games in a controlled “campus” or “bubble” environment in Orlando. And it looks like the Grizzlies will be part of the picture.
Legislation could give DeBerry a chance to get back on ballot as independent
Legislation in the General Assembly’s renewed COVID-19 session could help Democratic state Rep. John DeBerry find his way back on the ballot in 2020 after the Democratic Party took him off.
Behind the Headlines: TVA President and CEO Jeff Lyash
MLGW's 80-year partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority is up for renewal. TVA president and CEO Jeff Lyash talks with Eric Barnes and Bill Dries about the benefits of continuing this contract.
CBU to start earlier, end fall semester by Thanksgiving
Classes will be a combination of face-to-face and online; in some cases, double occupancy will be possible in dorms.
Houston High cancels traditional graduation ceremony
Houston High told families it will not hold a traditional graduation in June. Germantown Municipal School District made the announcement Tuesday.
Legislation on pay for student-athlete endorsements fails
An effort to tweak the NCAA's nose failed Tuesday in the General Assembly as two Memphis lawmakers' bills allowing student-athletes to be compensated failed to gain traction.
COVID-19 crimps AutoZone profits, stalls sales growth
AutoZone chairman, president and chief executive Bill Rhodes said he's "quite bullish" on the Memphis-based auto-parts retailer's future, despite short-term headwinds from COVID-19.
Memphis baseball’s Hunter Goodman named an All-American
Catcher Hunter Goodman, who played at Arlington High, is the 11th player in the history of the University of Memphis baseball program to receive All-American by Collegiate Baseball recognition.
FedEx offers #SupportSmall business grants
FedEx's new #SupportSmall business grant program is accepting applications through June 12. Winners will receive $5,000 grants and $500 in print and business services.
How Stax Museum will reopen – Executive Director Jeff Kollath joins Eric Barnes on the Extra Podcast
The head of the Stax Museum talks about plans for reopening — and contemplates when live music and events will happen again.
Metro
Blight, animals and parks: New leaders take position at key city divisions
One of the three confirmed city directors is in charge of a completely new division to tackle garbage and trash collection. Plus, the City Council approved a bonus for retired city employees.
Premium Spirit of Memphis ‘A win for the kids’: Local real estate company launches initiative to help at-risk youths
Premium City of Memphis The Old Daisy has been centerstage for the messy history of Beale Street control. Here’s the story.
Premium Bartlett An old house filled with old stuff. A complicated past. And one thing that grosses kids out.
Business
Downtown riverboat landing moving closer to Bass Pro
The move will support the ongoing preservation of the historic cobblestone river landing.
Premium Health Care ALSAC’s new CEO talks tech, talent, Memphis, more
Premium Spirit of Memphis ‘A win for the kids’: Local real estate company launches initiative to help at-risk youths
Premium Health Care Jennie Robbins is a different kind of leader for Church Health
Sports
Ja Morant dishes on Desmond Bane trade, Jaren Jackson Jr. extension and Ty Jerome addition
Grizzlies star Ja Morant said he was shocked to see Desmond Bane get traded to the Orlando Magic, but it was best for both teams.
Premium Sports Teenager sets American, world best at Ed Murphey Classic
Memphis Grizzlies Big fourth quarter carries Grizzlies to win over Trail Blazers
Premium Sports Ravens receiver Anthony Miller’s new foundation looks to serve Memphis youth
Food
Table Talk: English brings dinner to the Brooks
Chef Kelly English is hosting a four-course meal inspired by “Away with the Tides,” an exhibition currently at the Brooks Museum of Art.
Suburbs
From FedEx to City Hall: Olive Branch COO stepping down
Before Todd Ondra was hired, Olive Branch’s 17 department heads reported directly to the town’s mayor.
Arts & Culture
You can sing your heart out at the Orpheum. But not on the stage.
Saturday afternoon screenings of “Sing 2,” “The Sound of Music” and “Grease” will feature on-screen lyrics, encouraging audience members to belt out their favorite songs.
Opinion
Brilliance, courage defined journalist, and amigo, Karanja Ajanaku
One day in late May 1977, a young Black man took a seat at a desk for his first day as a reporter at The Commercial Appeal.
Podcasts
Two state lawmakers plan to push for MSCS takeover
Rep. Mark White and Sen. Brent Taylor, both Republicans, propose the next steps for their bills that would give the state more power over Memphis-Shelby County Schools.