The pitmaster brings her “winningest” touch to retail; she’s opening The BBQ Allstars barbecue supply store plus more in Southaven later this month.

‘If nothing else, you learn patience with barbecue because it takes a long time to cook,’ said Melissa Cookston, organizer of the World Junior Barbecue League Championship.

Eighteen bands from Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas vied in the 55th annual Bandmasters Championship hosted by the University of Memphis Band Alumni Chapter in hopes of winning the inaugural Joe Sills Cup. 

Focal Point Investments also developed the mixed-use building at 999 S. Cooper St. in Midtown Memphis.