The holiday season is here, and events are happening, and for our December reader lunch, we’re swinging with Erling. But first, let’s talk gravy. 

Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard scored multiple touchdowns in a game for the third time this season. 

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation issued a request for proposals on Monday, Dec. 5, for contractors to test around 1,000 backlogged sexual assault kits by next summer.

As the Southaven Board of Aldermen approves more layers for the development, the city’s town square-type project continues to grow. 

A chocolate layer cake, a fancy Russian honey cake (oh my) or a dense and delicious carrot cake: They all have a place in our hearts and on our plates.

A $10 Deal inspires Jennifer Biggs and Chris Herrington to take a virtual trip around town, talking about favorite Asian restaurants from Chinese to Vietnamese and more.

Founder Fred Jones announces who will play in the Classic against Tennessee State in 2023 and 2024.

The coaching staff is able to continue hitting the recruiting trail while the Tigers have time for extra practices as they look toward next season. 

MLGW will continue its 80-year relationship with TVA through its current contract, but Commissioner Carl Person encouraged the board to work closely with the utility to seek an agreement that best suits Memphis and its ratepayers. 

For our December lunch, we’ll feast on a buffet at Erling Jensen Small Bites and play a few games at the Topgolf Swing Suite.

Chef Jimmy Gentry enters the Downtown restaurant scene with The Lobbyist, opening in The Chisca.

This week’s Inked discusses emerging trends from the Daily Memphian’s commercial real estate seminar, new apartment complex coming to East Memphis, and recognition for Memphis tourism.

Martin, Tate, Morrow & Marston law firm, and Hemline branding firm announce staff additions. 

Head coach Penny Hardaway’s squad easily handled Little Rock as the Tigers (7-2) cruised to an 87-71 win over the Trojans (2-7) at FedExForum.

Related stories:

Buckley: Memphis shows fight they’ll need against Auburn, Alabama

Tigers Basketball Insider: What a difference a year makes

Box score: Memphis 87, Little Rock 71

The delay to the Dec. 20 council session mirrors a delay by the Shelby County Commission. The council also delayed a vote on a settlement to the damage deposit dispute between Memphis River Parks Partnership and the Memphis in May International Festival.

Despite his use of swear words, Steven Adams has made the “Nice List” this year. Santa Claus said so himself. 

Related story: 

Herrington: In Year 5, Jaren Jackson Jr. is coming into focus

The new plan reduces the amount of office and retail space and the number of hotel rooms. However, it adds condominiums.

The terms of the tax incentive for adding a 300-room tower to the existing Sheraton convention center hotel include keeping the value of the existing hotel at its 1998 assessment for tax purposes. Although they don’t have a vote on the incentive terms, Memphis City Council members say their concerns are linked to their vote on a hotel tourism surcharge.

Memphis police responded to the scene at Freedom Preparatory High School Monday, Dec. 5.

The former University of Memphis coach says he’s definitely interested in getting back into college football.

Related story:

Tigers player: ‘We believe’ in Silverfield

Art inspired by Tennessee created by Arlington students is part of the National Tree Lighting festivities in Washington.

Standouts from Manassas, St. George’s lead this week’s scoring charts.

Drew Hill and Chris Herrington recap Memphis’ latest victory, and discuss reasons to believe the Grizzlies could win the West.

Methodist said some care providers voiced questions about patients receiving gender-affirming procedures at a facility affiliated with the hospital, prompting the pause to review practices. It did not say how long the pause would last.

Honorees were chosen based on regular-season and postseason performance, with team performance also being factored in. The selections were also made in consultation with area coaches.