“In a perfect world, we would have a Memphis where we didn’t have to run scared. But I don’t think that day is here yet. And I don’t think we will get there if we quit.”

Jennifer Biggs wrote about food and people and angels and whiskey. When she died Wednesday of complications from cancer, Memphis lost one of its best friends.

Here’s what we learned about those who showed up Tuesday for the Memphis mayoral debate. 

Sean Tuohy said he was stunned Monday when he read the allegations from Michael Oher.

Related story:

‘Blind Side’ NFL lineman Michael Oher says he was tricked by Tuohy family

You know Clarence, the angel in “It’s a Wonderful Life?” Jack Sammons is nothing like him. But in this challenging time for Memphis, Sammons shares a story about Clarence. And Memphians should take it to heart.

Annie Ruth Taylor, 94, has 19 kids, 54 grandkids and 124 great-grandkids. OK, that’s just a rough count. But take a moment to meet the most interesting woman in Memphis — who lives in a most interesting house.

Murphy Culpepper has Down syndrome. He got a hole-in-one the other day. Here’s the story of how it happened — and why Murphy’s story needs to be shared. 

When Lexie Johnston checked her “Ceaseless Prayer” app Tuesday, she laughed out loud. It suggested she pray for MLGW. Yes, MLGW. It’s been that kind of week in Memphis. Or that kind of week, again.

I never met Roy Herron. But I’m one of the thousands he touched. Herron — who died Sunday from injuries suffered in a Jet Ski accident earlier this month — left a legacy even more meaningful than his 26 years in public office. It’s a legacy of kindness, of showing up. 

Madeline Johnson was carjacked almost a year ago. This weekend, it nearly happened again. Now this 25-year-old Memphis transplant is thinking about moving away from a city she has come to love.

“Jennifer Biggs missed The Daily Memphian lunch Friday — because she is in the hospital with Stage 4 colon cancer. But it was fitting that 70 people came together, over delicious food, to wish Biggs well. They are a part (a small part!) of the joyous community that Biggs has built with her enthusiasm, her commitment and her words.”

“I came to Memphis 27 years ago to cover sports, but, starting today, I’m going to be writing about something else. And I’m going to need your help.”

Friday may have seemed like the end of a long wait for Memphis fans. But the real suspense starts now.

Related stories:

Herrington: Morant’s suspension, the way forward and offseason impact

NBA suspends Grizzlies star Ja Morant for 25 games

NBPA: Ja Morant suspension ‘excessive and inappropriate’

Nike issues statement following Ja Morant suspension

Terri Bosby has presided over 50 ribbon-cuttings for the Greater Memphis Chamber this year, or more than two a week. At a difficult time in Memphis, Bosby is reminding us what determination and enthusiasm can do.

The Daily Memphian’s Geoff Calkins wins the prestigious Gary Lundy Sports Writer of the Year award; John Varlas, Drew Hill also take victories in the annual TSWA state writing contest.

Jack Sammons was as surprised as anyone by the merger of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. He’s happy it could lead to the return of past champions like Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson. Beyond that, what does it mean for Memphis?

Related story:

FedEx Cup focuses on August as PGA Tour, LIV merger blindsides golf world

“To me, it didn’t sound like a farewell to social media. It sounded like someone in pain. ... Maybe the better question isn’t what the NBA will hand down, but how the league will help Morant go forward from here.”

Related story:

Deputies conduct wellness check on Ja Morant

How about Justin Timberlake? Leslie Jones? William, Prince of Wales? No connection to Memphis is too tenuous to be mayor. Who would you choose?

“Whenever Morant returns, and no matter what sort of discipline he serves, he should consider embracing a new role as a spokesperson against guns and gun violence.”

Ja Morant may be suspended for holding a gun. In a state where politicians have posed with guns in Christmas cards, is that entirely fair? This isn’t to suggest Morant doesn’t deserve a suspension. But there’s a bigger problem here. 

Wait, Ja Morant was on social media with a handgun AGAIN? The man just got a $39 million lesson. And it turns out, he may not have learned a thing. 

Related story:

Ja Morant suspended from team activities after new social media video flashing apparent handgun

Hutchison School announces it will retire Eliza Fletcher’s number across all sports — and presents Meriel Rowland, a star-in four sports, with the first Eliza Wellford Fletcher No. 5 Award.

Grizzlies executive vice president Zach Kleiman said Sunday the team will have a “different approach” next season. The new approach seems to involve less talking and less youth. And, maybe, more wins?

The Los Angeles Lakers humiliated Memphis Friday to win their playoff series, 4-2. It could turn out to be a “pivotal” moment for the Grizzlies. But only if they treat it as such.