Calkins: From Mexico to Memphis, Orona-Lopez reminds us of the American dream
University of Memphis offensive lineman Manuel Orona-Lopez (left) blocks teammate Tyler Garvey during practice Monday, Aug. 5. Orona-Lopez will be starting at right guard when Memphis plays Ole Miss Saturday at the Liberty Bowl. (Mark Weber/Daily Memphian)
Geoff Calkins
Geoff Calkins has been chronicling Memphis and Memphis sports for more than two decades. He is host of "The Geoff Calkins Show" from 9-11 a.m. M-F on 92.9 FM. Calkins has been named the best sports columnist in the country five times by the Associated Press sports editors, but still figures his best columns are about the people who make Memphis what it is.
Manuel Orona-Lopez — whose parents came to the United States from Mexico — worked on roofs and lawns before coming to play offensive guard at Memphis. Next, he wants to give back as a firefighter.
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