Tag: 201 Poplar

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Local Organizer Creates Space for Inmates to Process Trauma

(Photo Credit: Keedran Franklin via Facebook)

A local organizer believes that through processing trauma and tapping into their emotional wellness, inmates at correctional facilities may have an increased chance at controlling their environment and seeing a positive outcome for themselves.

“The jailers and deputy jailers think that they actually control the jail, and they don’t,” says entrepreneur, facilitator, and professional organizer Keedran Franklin. “The people who are living there control the culture of how things go inside of the jail.”

Through his facilitation work, Franklin says that he deals with processing trauma, and is involved in a local group called Inward Journey. 

While Franklin and Inward Journey pursue doing inner work and emotional healing for their community, they have also been able to provide a space for healing inside correctional facilities as well.

Franklin posted a picture of a recent meeting at 201 Poplar, where he explained that this particular group has zero percent recidivism. Franklin refers to the project as “Inside Circle/Inward Journey” and “Black Men Build.”

According to Franklin, guards brought what he called the “12 most influential people … people who are making things happen around there.” 

“It’s almost like a behavior modification model,” says Franklin. “Guys sit in circles, talk amongst each other.”

The idea is for the individuals to work out their traumas so that they don’t “go from zero to 100.”

“They stop at 10 and think. They stop at 20 and think. They stop at 50 and think. They don’t get to 100,” said Franklin. “In a sense, the guards will realize that they don’t have to be so hard. They don’t have to inculcate, suppress, or oppress the residents as much because they think they’re in lock-up or consignment.”

Franklin cites the work laid out by one of his elders, Dr. James McLeary. McLeary is a board member for Inside Circle. 

According to information provided by Inside Circle, McLeary has been a “critical force driving the growth and success of programs at both Folsom State Prison and San Quentin State Prison.” Franklin says that McLeary’s work involves meetings with gang members in those facilities.

Inside Circle was formerly known as the Men’s Support Group at the California State Prison, Sacramento. It was started in the aftermath of a race riot in 1996. An inmate named Patrick Nolan spent time reflecting on the event, and had an “ intense determination to shift the dynamic driving such extreme violence and hatred.” 

Many years have passed since the initial meeting of the group, but the work has been spread to centers in Illinois, New Jersey, and San Quentin.

“It was pretty miraculous. You had guys with life first, without parole, plus 200 years, are now on the outside,” says Franklin. “The parole board was seeing enough change to say ‘you’ll do well outside.’”

McLeary’s work serves as a catalyst for the work that Franklin and others are doing at 201 Poplar. The group had their first meeting on Monday, October 16th.  

“I know the model, and what it has done for people who are far worse than these guys, on paper, far worse than these guys in 201 and the county lockup,” said Franklin. 

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Cover Feature News

Wrong Turn: A Minor Traffic Violation Becomes a Nightmare

CREDIT: Murray Riss

Have you ever been stopped for speeding? If so, think about what happened next, and the life-altering and traumatizing consequences of your lead foot. Oh, there weren’t any?

I’ve never experienced any, either. I have been stopped for speeding more than once in Memphis and have received either a warning or a ticket. I paid the fine if there was one and that was that. No further trouble, Ms. Klyce, just watch it from now on. I am a white Memphian of a certain age who drives a 2007 Prius.

Murray Riss

Ellen Klyce and Deangelo Brown

When Deangelo Brown, a Black Memphian age 24, was stopped for speeding, that’s not what happened.

A Melrose graduate, Brown was driving too fast one day while making deliveries and was pulled over. He was working to pay for tuition at Remington College, where he’s studying to become an HVAC technician. He’ll graduate next year.

I’ve known Deangelo almost his whole life. He was raised by his grandmother, Louise Brown. She was employed by my mother, Polly Cooper. Even though my mother died in 2009, I have remained close with Deangelo and his family. He called me recently, and I asked how he was doing. He said “Not too good. I just got out of jail.”

I wanted to help tell Deangelo’s story to increase our awareness about how the justice system can sometimes be cruelly unjust — and can turn a routine pizza delivery into a nightmare. — EK

On September 14th, around 2:30 in the afternoon, I’m driving west on Union and the cars in front of me in both lanes are going about 20 mph. I merge left into the turning lane, pass them, and then merge back. I stop at the light at Danny Thomas, and then at the one at B.B. King.

I notice a white SUV with tinted windows come up behind me at the light. The light turns green and I proceed to Second Street. The light is turning from green to yellow as I go through the intersection. At Front Street I realize I have missed my turn, so I turn around in a parking lot at Wagner Place.

I head back east on Union to make the delivery. When I stop at the light at Front Street, I notice the white SUV making a U-turn on Union back toward me. It comes up close on my bumper while I am stopped, so when the light turns green I pull over so the SUV can pass me. Instead, it pulls up on my bumper again and just sits there — no siren, no blue lights, no intercom, no attempt to get my attention. So I pull out and head toward Main. Then I notice the white SUV has sped up and is on my bumper again. I pull over.

At that point, I’m fearing for my life and wondering what’s going on. The driver of the SUV gets out of his car and he’s wearing a police uniform. He instructs me to cut my car off and step out of the vehicle. I do as instructed. He tells me, “You’re going to jail,” and grabs me by my clothes and puts me over the hood of the SUV. He tells me to put my hands behind my back, and he handcuffs me.

He asks me if I have anything on me. I say, “No, sir, just my wallet and my phone.” It’s my music phone. My work phone — my regular cell phone — is still in the car. Then he says “What were you thinking going that fast?” I tell him that I’m sorry; I’m at work on a delivery. I tell him he was riding my bumper and I didn’t know who he was. I tell him again that I’m the only driver at my job and I’m the only one delivering all these orders.

Four more police squad cars show up. Another officer gets out, searches me, then he puts me in the back of his squad car, saying, “I’m not mad at you. We all speed sometimes.” He closes the door and talks to the officer who stopped me. I’m now alone in the back of a closed police car and it’s very hot.

The officer who put me in the car comes back and asks me if I have a license or insurance. This is the first time anybody has asked me that. I say, “Yes, sir.” He asks me for my address, ZIP code, and phone number and closes the door again. By then I have been in the car for at least 10 minutes. I am still handcuffed.

Then a third officer comes and asks if I know my boss’ number so they can come get the pizzas I was trying to deliver. I tell him, “Yes, but you are going to have to get my phone out of my car.”

A fourth officer appears and begins to search my car. He looks in the back seat, under the back seat, in the pockets of the seats, inside the trunk, inside the glove compartment, inside the armrest, inside the middle console, and inside all four doors. After he finishes, the third officer gets my phone from the floor on the driver’s side. I give him the code to unlock my phone and the number to call my general manager. When she answers, he puts the phone on speaker and I tell her that I am going to jail. She asks “Why?” and the officer says “for reckless driving.”

She says, “I’ve never heard of anyone going to jail for reckless driving. Do you have to take him to jail?” He doesn’t say anything and does not return my cell phone.

My general manager calls the day manager and tells her to come get the pizzas, the money, and receipts that were in my car, and to see if the police will let her drive my car home for me. The day manager says she is on her way, and my general manager tells me that if I need anything to call her. This is all on speaker, and the officer is standing right there. She hangs up and he closes the door.

They switch handcuffs on me because the first ones were super tight. The second ones are still very tight. Then the first officer, the one who arrested me, comes and asks me again, “What were you thinking going so fast?” I say, “Yes, sir, I did do all those things you said I did. I understand you have a job to do and I was doing my job as well.” That’s when a fifth officer shows up and puts me in the back of his squad car. Then they search my car again.

The day manager arrives and takes the two pizzas and the money and the receipts from the officers. As she walks away, she looks at me and shakes her head, meaning the police wouldn’t allow her to take my car home for me. So far, no one has even looked at my driver’s license or asked for my vehicle’s registration or looked at my proof of insurance.

Ten minutes later, an officer comes back to the squad car and starts to drive me to 201 Poplar Avenue. I ask him, “What do I do about my car?” He says “Do you have insurance?” I say, “Yes, sir.” He says, “They should just give you your car back if you show proof of ownership and insurance.”

As soon as we get to 201, he helps me out of the squad car. I’m still in handcuffs. The woman doing the processing asks me if I have any symptoms of COVID-19 and I say no. Then she gives the officer a mask for me and takes my temperature. The officer takes the handcuffs off. My left thumb is numb. The officer gives me the mask and I put it on. It’s around 3:40 p.m. It was my first time inside 201 Poplar.

Once I enter the building, the officer tells me to empty my pockets and put everything on the counter, so I pull out my wallet and music phone and leave them. My name is called and my fingerprints are taken and I’m told to sit back down. Then I get a full body search and I’m taken to a little holding block to wait for intake, where they take more fingerprints. I sign my name and give them my money — $22. Then they do another full body search and tell me to write down on a card any phone numbers I need to remember, and then take my phone. I sit in intake for three hours.

Finally, they call my name and take my picture and process me into the system, giving me a wristband with my name, gender, birthdate, and inmate number. It’s about 8 o’clock. I sit for about another hour, and then they bring us small sack lunches: bologna sandwich, chips, and a juice carton.

At 9:30, they call me to the medical staff, who check my blood pressure and oxygenation and ask me if I have any symptoms of COVID-19. Then I’m moved to pre-trial. They verify my address and ask for two emergency phone numbers. They ask me if I have ever been locked up before. I say,
“No, ma’am.”

Another hour goes by, then they call my name to get dressed in the jail uniform. I’m frightened because I thought I would be getting released or given an amount of money for a bond. I had no idea I would have to spend the night in jail.

After putting on the jail uniform, they send me back to intake, where I sit for another three hours. Around 1 a.m., I call my sister and let her know I’m in jail. I also call my brother, who calls my cousin, who is a bail bondsman, to see if they have set a bond. My cousin says I haven’t even been processed into the system yet.

It’s 2:30 a.m. I have been sitting in an uncomfortable chair for several hours. They call my name, search me again, and give me a bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, a blanket, a sheet, a big towel, and two discolored and stained face towels.

As they’re taking me to the lower level, I ask the correctional officer why I’m going to the lower level. I thought I was supposed to be getting out. She says she will check on it.

Then I’m put into a cell. It is very small, almost like being in a cardboard box. There are two of us. If my roommate and I were to both stand up, there would be three feet of space between us. There is a bunk bed to the right and an open toilet to the left. I just sit on the floor all night. I don’t feel safe getting into the top bunk.

They give us breakfast around 6 a.m. — grits, a piece of cake, cereal and milk, and black coffee.

Around 8 a.m., they start coming to get people for court. I ask the morning CO if I have court or if she’d heard anything. She says she’ll check. Around 8:30, we get an hour of “rec” where we can use the phones and walk up and down the halls. I wait behind two inmates to use the phone. It turns out the phone requires a code. When I finally get a call to go out, a recording tells my sister she has to put money on a card to talk to me. So we don’t talk.

I sit in my cell for the rest of the day. We get our next meal around 6 p.m. — a Polish sausage, two slices of bread, a piece of cake, and Kool-Aid. No one has said anything to me about my case.

Around 7 p.m., I see the second-shift CO and ask if he could check to see if I got a bond or an ROR. He comes back 30 minutes later and says I will be going to court Wednesday morning at 9 a.m.

Around about 1 a.m., I finally climb up on the top bed and try to go to sleep, but I just toss and turn all night long. I just want to go home.

At 5 a.m. Wednesday, the third-shift CO flashes her light in my room and tells me to wake up. The nurse comes and takes my vitals. She says usually when you are seen by the nurse you are about to go home. She also says we are on quarantine lockdown because an inmate is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. They give us breakfast around 6:30 a.m. — soupy eggs.

At 10:30 a.m., the CO calls my name and says that pre-trial is getting me released. I change out of the jail uniform into my clothes and get my valuables back: sunglasses, headphones, regular phone, music phone, wallet, and a check for $22. Everything is there. They take my picture again and cut off my armband and release me. I leave the building and call my sister, who comes to pick me up.

When I get home, I open a letter from the city of Memphis that arrived while I was in jail. It says that my vehicle was impounded and the reason was possible theft. It says I can retrieve it at the impound lot.

I call them and give the last six digits of the car’s VIN off the car’s title, which I keep at the house. The person at the impound lot tells me it will be $195 to get my car back. I tell her that the police said that if I showed proof of ownership and insurance I could get my car back without paying anything. She says they don’t do that at the police impound lot and I had to pay $195 and that the fee was going up the next day and I’d have to pay more.

I call my brother to take me to get my car, and I pay the $195 cash and get my car back.

At 9 a.m. on Thursday, September 17th, I appear at General Sessions Court for my charge of reckless driving. Thanks to family and friends, I am able to get a lawyer. I sit there for about 30 minutes until they call my name. My lawyer talks to the judge, and then the prosecuting attorney. Then the judge calls me up to let me know that my charges are being dismissed.

I’m sharing my story because it was unbelievable, shocking, terrifying, and life-threatening. No human being should be treated the way I was for a traffic misdemeanor. It makes me look at life differently. I got treated like a criminal, and I’m not a criminal. I do nothing but good things for people. I go to work. I go to school. I try not to ask people for help, try to do it on my own. I want to make a difference in this world. I wouldn’t want this to happen to anyone else, but it does happen — and could happen to anybody. And that’s just wrong.

I want a justice system that works for everyone. — DB

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Attorney General Working on Jail Release, Dismissed ‘Hundreds’ of Cases

CREDIT: Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich's office/YouTube

Attorney General Working on Jail Release, Dismissed ‘Hundreds’ of Cases

Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich said her office is working to release some incarcerated at the Shelby County Jail and has dismissed “hundreds” of cases of those recently charged, all moves to reduce the jail’s population and stem the spread of coronavirus.

“We’re open,” Weirich said in a YouTube video Friday, giving answers to many questions her office has fielded from the public. Her staff has been working every day during the shelter-in-place mandate ordered by Memphis and Shelby County Mayors. Judges, Weirich said, have been handling cases in every court.

Weirich said she’s been asked what her office is doing to reduce the jail population. Earlier this week, the Tennessee Supreme Court mandated judges across the state to review jail and prison populations and provide a plan to reduce them.

Weirich said the jail at 201 Poplar held 1,935 inmates as of Friday afternoon. The population was over 2,600 at the beginning of the year, she said, adding that there are already many processes in place to reduce the figure.

“Those in custody at 201 Poplar are charged with very serious, violent crimes, and many have histories that go back years,” Weirich said. “Individuals charged with low-level offenses are rarely — if ever — in jail. We are looking every day for people we can safely, reasonably, and responsibly release back into the community.”
[pullquote-1] Those in her office are working with defense attorneys to fast-track cases awaiting guilty pleas. This process usually takes months, Weirich said, and it has been reduced to days.

During her video, Weirich held up a letter and said if you’ve recently been charged with a crime, “You might get one from me.”

“I am sending hundreds of letters to out-of-custody defendants telling them we’ve reviewed their case and are dismissing their case and that you do not need to come back to court,” Weirich said. “If you get a letter like this, it is not a joke.”

Shelter-in-place messages from the mayors have some confused about their court duties, she said. However, those with a subpoena or court order “are exempt because you are necessary to the administration of justice.” She said her office will call victims and witnesses to come to court.

For more information, call Weirich’s office at (901) 222-1300.

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Two Members of DA’s Office Sent Home on Coronavirus Caution

An unauthorized sign created “chaos and confusion” at 201 Poplar Thursday, and two members of the Shelby County District Attorney General’s office were sent home on coronavirus cautions.

Here’s the full statement on the matter from Shelby County DA Amy Weirich:

“Earlier today, an unauthorized sign was posted that has created chaos and confusion. Let me be clear, I know of no one in the DA’s office testing positive for Covid-19. A couple of our employees have been in contact with an individual who has been in contact with an individual who has tested positive for Covid-19.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we have sent those employees home and asked them to self-monitor. We are also asking employees who have returned from high-risk states or high-risk countries to stay home for two weeks. Our offices are open and we are handling in-custody cases as instructed by the Tennessee Supreme Court.”

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Coronavirus Megathread: Closings and Delays Across Memphis


Idlewild Presbyterian Church (Friday (March 20)

Churches from the Presbytery of the Mid-South are bringing together their congregations via the radio and Livestream to provide worship services at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, March 22, and for the near future, because of the recommended “social distancing” during the coronavirus outbreak. Members and guests can “be there” at the service, broadcasted from Idlewild Presbyterian Church. The service will be also be archived on the church’s website for later viewing.

The combined congregations of Balmoral, Buntyn, Evergreen, First (Memphis), First (Somerville), Idlewild, Parkway Gardens United and Shady Grove Presbyterian are providing various pastoral staff to participate during each service. This week’s service includes the following service leadership: The Reverend Anne H. K. Apple (Idlewild), The Reverend Carla Meisterman (Balmoral), The Reverend Sara Dorrien-Christians (Idlewild), The Reverend Elizabeth Dick (Evergreen), Mr. Barry Oliver, Director of Music Ministry (Idlewild) and soloists, Amy Phillips and Tyler Brumback (Idlewild). Members of Idlewild’s youth are the preachers for this Sunday: Helen Gillespie, Peter Calkins and Caroline Seamons.

Worship services are held in the sanctuary with no physical congregation, but all are invited “to attend” the service via the church’s Livestream, www.livestream.com/idlewild, or by listening to WIVG-FM 96.1.

For information about the church, please visit www.idlewildchurch.org or call 901-726-4681.

Memphis City Council (Thursday, March 19)

THE MEMPHIS CITY COUNCIL

Tuesday, March 24, 2020, 3:30 p.m.

Due to the declarations of a State of Emergency by the President of the United States, the Governor of Tennessee and the Mayor of Memphis relating to Covid-19 Epidemic the Council has determined that is necessary that the meeting be conducted by electronic or other means of communication in order to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, City employees, Council staff and Members of the Council.

THERE WILL BE NO PHYSICAL MEETING

Memphis Botanic Gardens (Thursday, March 19)

I write today during this period of uncertainty, both locally and nationally. As I write this, your Garden has already taken numerous steps to help contain the spread of COVID-19 / Coronavirus and we stand ready to take more drastic measures if they become warranted.

Some of the steps we have taken – so far include:

The canceling of all events in excess of 10 people thru at least May 15, 2020.

The closing of My Big Backyard, our children’s garden, to the public beginning Friday, March 20. Because of the many interactive surfaces contained within this garden, we feel it is prudent to close this area off until further notice.

The opening of the Gardens (with the exception of the Children’s Garden) to the public without cost, effective Friday, March 20 and until further notice. We encourage social distancing, and with 96 acres to visit and small groups, we believe this to be a sensible gesture of goodwill to the community. Members and Guests may now enter directly onto Garden grounds at the south end of our parking lot without entering the building or interacting with staff.

This remains a very fluid situation, and we are doing our best to adapt and adhere to CDC guidelines as they evolve. We are also following local health official’s guidance. While at this time we do not intend to close the outdoor spaces of the Garden to the public, we will adapt to future guidance if it comes.

I encourage you to follow us on our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) or to visit MemphisBotanicGarden.com for the most current situation as regards your Garden.

I wish you and your family well during this difficult time, and we will remain as transparent as possible in the days and weeks to come

City of Memphis Golf Courses (Thursday, March 19)

In light of current public health issues, for the safety of our golfers and employees, we have made the decision to temporarily close the City of Memphis Golf Courses. It is unknown as to the time frame of the closures. We will keep you updated via www.memphispubliclinks.com.

Locations include The links at Audobon, Overton, Galloway, Davy Crockett, Fox Meadows, Pine Hill, Riverside, and Whitehaven.

State Parks Group Hikes (Thursday, March 19)

We have decided to cancel our guided Spring Hikes this weekend. These annual hikes usually attract thousands of visitors to our parks, and these groups exceed the recommended group sizes for helping our communities “flatten the curve.”

We are sorry for this cancellation, and hope that you will plan to join us for our next signature hike on June 6, 2020.

Macy’s (Thursday, March 19)


In response to the widespread COVID-19 outbreak, Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE: M) today announced that it will temporarily close all stores by end of business today, March 17, 2020, through March 31, 2020. This includes all Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Bluemercury, Macy’s Backstage, Bloomingdales the Outlet and Market by Macy’s stores. Macy’s, Inc. will provide benefits and compensation to its impacted workforce.

“The health and safety of our customers, colleagues and communities is our utmost priority. As a result of the recent COVID-19 developments, we have decided to temporarily close our stores. We will work with government and health officials to assess when we will reopen our stores and safely bring our colleagues back to work,” said Jeff Gennette, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy’s, Inc. “During this closure, we will continue to serve our customers through our e-commerce sites.”

All three Macy’s, Inc. brands – Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury – will continue to serve customers through macys.com, bloomingdales.com and bluemercury.com and through its mobile apps.

Hope Church (Thursday, March 19)

We want to address our response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) and how we as a church are doing our part to flatten the curve, follow government and health official guidelines while keeping our family and community healthy!

Beginning this weekend, March 21 & 22, all Hope services will move online only. Together, we will connect, worship and experience God’s word online as one Hope family.

Join us on Facebook, YouTube, and HopeChurchMemphis.com/Live this Saturday night at 5:30 pm, Sunday morning at 11:15 am and Sunday night at 5:30 pm for The Stirring.

Overton Park (Thursday, March 19)


During these times where it’s safest for us to be apart from each other, we’re so glad that the trails and open spaces of Overton Park are serving as a refuge for many of us.

It’s with heavy hearts, then, that we’ve decided to close restrooms, playgrounds, and the dog park until further notice.

We’ve made this choice for two reasons: one, because keeping these facilities open encourages people to gather in close proximity to each other; and two, because there are no current CDC guidelines for how to clean playgrounds and outdoor recreation facilities during a pandemic outbreak.

With reports that COVID-19 can live on surfaces for days, and our cleaning crew only able to visit once or twice per day, there’s simply no way for us to keep all surfaces sanitized for every visitor.

The park’s trail system remains open for you to get some much-needed fresh air. (PSA: The nature trails are so saturated from the endless rain that you’d need wading boots to walk them, so we recommend the paved trails for now!) We encourage you to follow the National Recreation and Park Association’s guidelines for using the trails:

• Before visiting trails — wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, and do not use trails if you have symptoms.

• Observe at all times CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of six feet from other people. Keep it as you walk, bike or hike.

• Alert other trail users of your presence, and step off trails to allow others to pass, keeping minimum recommended distances at all times.

• Be prepared before you leave and time outings so that you are not dependent on public restrooms.

• Bring water or drinks — public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable.

• Bring a suitable trash bag. Take trash with you to protect park workers.

• We’ve posted signs announcing the closures, but our playgrounds are open-air, so we’ll need everyone’s cooperation to stay away. Thank you for helping to keep yourself and other park visitors safe.

Memphis Zoo (Wednesday, March 18)

Memphis Zoo will temporarily close to the public Thursday, March 19th.

The health and safety of our team members, guests, volunteers and animals is our top priority, and Memphis Zoo is committed to taking proactive steps to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Any guests who had field trips or group visits planned will be able to reschedule or receive a refund.

While we are closed, our zookeepers and essential team members will continue to care for our animals. Zoo fans will also be able to check on our animals and team members through our social media accounts.

How you can help Memphis Zoo

During our closure, we are reaching out to our Memphis Zoo friends to ask for your support. Please consider donating to our Emergency Animal Support Fund. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to welcoming you to the Zoo again soon. To donate please visit memphiszoo.org/emergencysupportfund.

Orion Federal Credit Union (Wednesday, March 18)


The safety and well-being of our community is Orion’s highest priority. Orion continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely and we are making necessary adjustments to business processes and operations.

Beginning Friday, March 20, 2020, we are temporarily shifting our branch services approach to drive-through only. Our ATMs are available 24 hours a day. For non-cash transactions, remember you can bank with us without leaving the comfort of your home.

YMCA (Wednesday, March 18)

Due to the ongoing public health emergency presented by the COVID-19 virus outbreak and recommendations from the CDC and other health officials, ​the YMCA will be temporarily closing all 11 YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South locations effective at 8:00 p.m. on March 18, 2020.

According to the YMCA, the goal with the temporary closure is to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community before it threatens to overwhelm the public health system, while continuing to focus resources on providing services to healthcare workers, first responders, and those most vulnerable in our community.

“In times like these, the very best of who we are is called forward, giving us the opportunity to live our mission and values and promise to the community. Now, it is critical that we step up and respond to the needs in our community, redirect our expertise and resources, serve those who need us most, and provide inspirational leadership and hope for all. We will pivot our operations to focus on our community response to the unique circumstances created by the COVID-19 virus and repurpose our branches as community response centers,” said Jerry Martin, President and CEO for YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.

YMCA Emergency Childcare For First Responders & Healthcare Workers:

Effective Thursday, March 19, 2020, Healthcare & First Responder Childcare will be offered 7 days a week from 6:00AM to 8:00PM to accommodate a 12-hour shift schedule for these families at various YMCA locations throughout our community. Care will be supervised by trained childcare team members for children ages 3 years (potty trained) to 12 years of age.

For more information and to sign up please visit ​www.ymcamemphis.org​ or call our Customer Support Center at 901-766-7677.

YMCA Partnering with School Districts for Meal Services:

The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South will be joining our schools partners to provide children access to meals at designated sites throughout our community.
Meals are scheduled to be served between 11:00 a.m – 1:00 p.m beginning March 23, 2020. For a full list of meals site locations, visit: ​www.ymcamemphis.org

Highpoint Climbing & Fitness (Wednesday, March 18)

In a continued effort to mitigate risk and prioritize safety, we have decided to temporarily suspend operations of all High Point facilities beginning March 18th through March 31st. We believe that social distancing is the best way for us to do our part in slowing the spread of COVID-19.

While we try our best to keep our doors open whenever possible, in this instance, our temporary closure can help ensure the safety of our members, staff and the overall community. We will be monitoring how this situation continues to unfold and use this as an opportunity to do a deep sanitation of all facilities.

To our members:
• During this time memberships will automatically be frozen at no additional cost and you will receive a prorated credit to be applied toward next month’s dues.
• We will provide a status update on billing by March 27th as well as any additional details on possible closure extensions.
• If you need to contact the gym, or if you need to retrieve items from a locker in our locker rooms, we will be maintaining office hours Mon-Fri from 10am to 4pm. Please email us at Memphis@highpointclimbing.com and we will be happy to coordinate with your needs.
We are looking forward to serving all of our wonderful community members again soon and in the meantime encourage everyone to stay positive and safe as we move through this together!

Pink Palace (Tuesday, March 17)

As a public health precaution due to COVID-19 (coronavirus), the Pink Palace Family of Museums including the Pink Palace Museum, theater,  planetarium, Lichterman Nature Center, Mallory-Neely House  and Magevney House will temporarily close to the public beginning Wednesday, March 18, 2020.

 “The Pink Palace Family of Museums has remained open these past two days in order to wind down scheduled activities between now and the end of May.  In just two short days, our staff has worked incredibly hard at winding down operations affecting over 11,000 people who had scheduled visits through May,” said Kevin Thompson, Executive Director Pink Palace Family of Museums. 

The public is encouraged to visit the Pink Palace Family of Museums website (www.memephismuseums.org), Facebook and Instagram pages for online content for children and adults created to keep the public engaged and entertained during this period of home quarantine. 

“We plan to roll out online services next week in order to continue to engage with the public. We have an initial set of items for next week, and plans are in the works to continue to create online environments to share our history.  Please check our website and social media outlets for more information,” continued Thompson.


Ballet Memphis (Tuesday, March 17)


Ballet Memphis is prioritizing the health of students, families, dancers, patrons, and staff, and will be taking the following precautions against the spread of COVID-19:

● Ballet Memphis Office: Closed to the public beginning March 18th until further notice

● Ballet Memphis School: Closed until further notice

● Pilates and Adult Classes: All classes, workshops and certifications canceled until further notice

● 2020-21 Company Auditions: in-person auditions canceled – Digital video submissions, headshot and resume should now be sent to auditions@balletmemphis.org

● Cinderella: Performance and supporting events canceled.

“Cinderella is a piece that brings magic to life for families, but we will not perform at the expense of our community,” says Steven McMahon, Artistic Director. “We are being proactive, both in prevention and serving our community. We hope that during this time, we’ll be able to reach our audience through virtual tools so that we may continue to bring dance to Memphis.”

Those who have already purchased tickets to Cinderella will be contacted directly. Refunds are available for tickets purchased through Ballet Memphis, however the organization is asking patrons to consider purchased tickets a donation.

“On behalf of the Ballet Memphis team, I can’t wait to bring Ballet Memphis back to the stage very soon,” said McMahon.

Ballet Memphis staff will continue to communicate any updates and ways they will continue to share the power of dance in a time when our community could use it most.

Memphis Rox (Tuesday, March 17)

In light of recent announcements over the past few days about local schools, organizations, and businesses closing due to concerns with Coronavirus COVID-19 and an increased emphasis on the safety, health, and wellness, Memphis Rox Climbing Gym will temporarily close Wednesday, March 18 for the remainder of the month. We will continue to monitor circumstances daily and will remain flexible and forward-thinking in regards to the next steps.

Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our guests, employees, and our community. Our commitment to improving the quality of life for Mid-Southerners through climbing and community outreach has not wavered during this time of uncertainty looming around Coronavirus (COVID-19). Now more than ever, it is important for us all to exercise collective leadership and take precautionary measures to participate in the healing of our city, state, nation, and world.

Furthermore, we will steadfastly follow all protocols recommended by the CDC, Tennessee Health Department, and Shelby County Health Department and encourage everyone in the community to do the same.

To support our staff during this time of closure and uncertainty, all employees will be paid for their previous average weekly hours worked, even as the gym remains closed for the next two weeks. We will then create various projects for our employees to participate in to improve the gym experience for our customers with an emphasis on safety protocols.

Art Museum of the University of Memphis (Tuesday, March 17)

In keeping with the measures the University is taking to contain the spread of COVID-19, the opening reception for “In 7, 6, 5…” scheduled for March 21st has been cancelled. We tentatively postpone re-opening to the public until March 31st. Please contact the museum for further information. In spite of being closed to the public, AMUM continues to install our upcoming exhibition and will be sharing online stories about “In 7, 6, 5…” once the show is up. When we are able to re-open to the public, then we will schedule an opening reception to replace the one that was cancelled, which would have taken place on March 21st.


Memphis River Parks Partnership (Tuesday, March 17)
 Justin Fox Burks

An aerial view of the new River Garden park.


As much as we love having folks share the space of the Memphis River Parks, we’re reminded that we’re all in this together to keep Memphis healthy. Please follow guidance from the CDC and Shelby County Health Department.

The Partnership has increased the frequency of scheduled cleaning and sanitizing in all park facilities and reinforced recommended procedures with staff while monitoring development and following the latest guidance on COVID-19.

All public events scheduled to take place on the riverfront in the next eight weeks have been postponed or canceled. Keep updated on the latest on Facebook and our website.

Metal Museum (Tuesday, March 17)

It is with deep regret that we inform you that we have made the difficult yet necessary decision to close the Metal Museum to the public, effective immediately until further notice. This includes all public programs and classes.

As with our peer institutions in the city of Memphis and across the country, we believe this is the best course of action to ensure the continued well-being of our visitors, volunteers, and staff.

Please watch your email and/or the Museum’s website and social media for the most up-to-date information. Our staff will continue to work during this time to answer any questions you have and to ensure that exhibitions and programs are to the high standard you expect when we reopen. Should you have any questions during this time, please do not hesitate to email us at info@metalmuseum.org.

We greatly appreciate your understanding and flexibility during this time and, as always, your support of the Metal Museum.

Hattiloo Theatre (Tuesday, March 17)

In light of the developing news about the coronavirus (COVID-19), here’’s the latest from Hattiloo. We continue to look to the CDC, the Shelby County government and the City of Memphis and state leadership for guidance. Following the temporary recommendation to limit public gatherings, and in concert with our colleagues throughout the theatre industry, we’’ve suspended all performances through May 1, 2020. 

 

We’’re adapting as quickly as we can to this situation. For your convenience, as always, you can email us at manager@hattilootheatre.org, or call 901.502.3486. With the expected volume of emails, it may take us 3-5 business days to respond, but rest assured that we will get back to you. Our shows are canceled for now, but our staff is here for you.  

If you have tickets for this weekend’s performance, please email tickets@hattilootheatre.org for information.

Thank you for your support. Please stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you when Hattiloo reopens.

Southland Casino Racing (Monday, March 16)

The situation surrounding coronavirus (COVID-19) is rapidly developing, and Southland Casino Racing continues to be focused on efforts at our facility to protect the health and safety or our guests and employees. 

In coordination with the Arkansas State Racing Commission and the State of Arkansas, we are acting to temporarily close the venue. No new patrons will be permitted into the facility after 11:59 p.m. tonight, Monday, March 16, and the facility will be closed at 6 a.m. March 17 until further notice. All activities are canceled, including casino promotions.

We will be communicating as quickly as possible with our employees to assist them during this period. We thank them for their ongoing diligence and ability to adapt in a very fluid and unprecedented circumstance.

To date, we have worked to protect public health by following CDC guidelines on sanitizing protocols and cleaning throughout our venue. We will remain in close touch with State and County health officials, and we look forward to reopening Southland Casino Racing shortly and continuing to provide a clean, safe environment.

We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to hosting you again in the near future. We will keep you updated on our website at www.southlandcasino.com and via Facebook.com/SouthlandCasinoRacing as more details become available.

Opera Memphis (Monday, March 16)

Members of the Opera Memphis family,



Earlier today, Opera Memphis made the difficult decision to cancel our 2020 Midtown Opera Festival, including the production of Mozart’s Così fan tutte. 



Though this decision is heartbreaking, we know it is vital that we play our part in combating the spread of COVID-19 in this truly unprecedented situation. 



We know there are many disappointed opera lovers reading this, so we are also taking the opportunity to announce 30 Days of Digital Opera beginning on April 1. Every September, we fan out through the city giving free performances for the entire month. This coming April, instead, will be a chance for us to provide fresh, daily content on all of our digital channels.



More details will be shared on this new program as it develops. We know nothing can replace the feeling of seeing an opera live and in person, but hopefully, this new program will help bridge the gap!



Within the next several days, we will reach out to all of our ticket holders and provide them with their options.  We hope our patrons will consider donating their tickets to help us recoup some revenue, as the company has decided to pay our artists and crew who rely on performances for their livelihood. 



Finally, the administrative offices for Opera Memphis will be temporarily closed. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact us at info@operamemphis.org.



Thank you in advance for your patience.

Germantown Performing Arts Center (Monday, March 16)


Friends and Family of GPAC:

The safety of GPAC’s audiences, artists, volunteers and staff are our first priority. In response to the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), GPAC will be closed to the public indefinitely as of Monday, March 16, at 5 p.m. The following events have been modified:

Welcome to Night Vale Live, March 18, at 7:30 p.m.: This show will be rescheduled. We’re working with the tour on a new date, and GPAC will make an announcement as soon as it is set. 

Peanut Butter & Jam: José! by New Ballet Ensemble, March 21, at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.: This program will be rescheduled. Please stay tuned for the new date.

Artist’s Reception with Pam Santi, March 21, at 5 p.m.: This reception has been cancelled.

Germantown Symphony Orchestra 250th Anniversary Beethoven Celebration, March 21, at 7 p.m.: GSO is rescheduling this concert and apologizes for any inconvenience.  Please hold onto your tickets and they will be providing additional information once more is known about the future concert schedule.

Memphis Symphony Orchestra: Masterworks 5: Strauss, Tchaikovsky, & Shostakovich, March 22, at 2:30 p.m. MSO will not hold the concert. The decision to reschedule or cancel will be determined at a later date, and will be guided by public health and safety and scheduling considerations. Additional updates will be made on the MSO website, social media and emails to subscribers and ticket buyers. Please contact the MSO Box Office with any ticket related questions at (901) 537-2500 or tickets@memphissymphony.org.

ArtSavvy: Shadow Play Workshop, March 24, at 7 p.m.: This program will be rescheduled or cancelled based on safety and scheduling considerations. You can find updates here or on the Facebook event.

Jazz in the Box: Emmet Cohen & Houston Person, March 27, at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.: This show will be rescheduled. We’re working on a new date based on safety and scheduling considerations. GPAC will make an announcement as soon as it is set.

Pilobolus—Shadowland: The New Adventure, March 28, 8 p.m.: Pilobolus’ performance has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 19, at 8 p.m. Tickets for the March performance are valid for the September show.

Visual Arts Exhibit, Artist’s Reception and Artist Chat with Yancy Villa Calvo will be rescheduled for the fall. Keep an eye on information for the 2020-2021 Season for details.

Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Saturday, April 11, 8 p.m. This performance will be rescheduled or cancelled based on safety and scheduling considerations. Tickets for the April concert will be valid for the rescheduled show.

Artsavvy: Gullah Traditions, Tuesday, April 14, 7 p.m. This program will be rescheduled or cancelled based on safety and scheduling considerations. You can find updates here or on the Facebook event.

Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers, Thursday, April 16, 7:30 p.m. This show will be rescheduled, we are working with the tour on a new date.Tickets for the April performance are valid for the rescheduled show.

Ranky Tanky, Friday, April 17, 8 p.m. This performance will be rescheduled or cancelled based on safety and scheduling considerations. Tickets for the April Ranky Tanky concert will be valid for the rescheduled show.

We will communicate updates for these events via the GPAC website, social media and through emails to patrons and ticket holders affected by rescheduled events and cancellations. If you have questions regarding ticketing for the above mentioned performances, please call the GPAC box office at (901) 751-7500 or at boxoffice@gpacweb.com. Thank you for your understanding. 

Quark Theatre (Monday, March 16)

Quark is suspending performances until, hopefully, we can remount it in the (near) future. That may be in 2 weeks; it may be in 2 months. We will keep you informed.

We had originally planned to complete our entire run. While we believe any possibility of virus transmission at Theatre South is quite low because it only holds, at the most, 50 people, we understand the the possibility is not zero. We also understand that people are concerned right now and seem to be getting more so.
We hope to see more of you in the future!


Playhouse on the Square (Monday, March 16)

The safety of our patrons, staff, artists, teachers, and volunteers is of utmost importance, and we at Playhouse on the Square (Circuit Playhouse, Inc.) have been adjusting our plans to confront the challenges of COVID-19 on a daily basis based on information from the CDC, WHO, Shelby County Health Department, City of Memphis, and the State of Tennessee.

 

With 18 productions on 3 stages, 2 school touring productions, and 13 education and outreach programs, reaching 10s of 1000s of people yearly, there are many moving parts, and we strive to present our offerings with as little disruption as possible.

 

This past weekend, the CDC issued new recommendations, and we will be implementing the following courses of action:

 

·      Beginning on 3/16/20, we will be cancelling remaining performances of The Book of Will; Ain’t Misbehavin’; Schoolhouse Rock Live; The Ant and the Grasshopper; and Days of Rage through May 7, 2020.

·      We will push the entire run of Little Shop of Horrors 1 or 2 weeks later to run May 8 through May 31 or May 15 through June 7.

·      We will shorten the run of Mississippi Goddamn by opening one week later to run June 12 through June 28.

·      We will push the entire run of Something Rotten 1 week later  to run June 26 through July 12.

·      St. Paulie’s Delight’s run will retain its current schedule, July 10 through July 26.

·      After School Acting Program (ASAP) and Theatre School will be cancelled until the Fall.

·      TnT and PlaySlam will be postponed to a later date.

·      Summer Youth Conservatory programming will retain its current schedule.

·      The 43rd Annual Original Art Auction, scheduled for April 25, will be postponed until Summer or Fall of 2020.

 

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and we hope that you will continue to support Playhouse on the Square as we endeavor to confront both the health and economic challenges to our patrons, staff, teachers, and volunteers.

 

If you have tickets for upcoming cancelled performances, our Box Office team will be reaching out to you to change your reservation to another show, issue refunds, or process your payment as a donation should you prefer that option. Our Box Office (901-726-4656) will maintain normal business hours until further notice.

201 Poplar (Monday, March 16)

In light of the health and safety concerns surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the criminal justice system at 201 Poplar will be functioning much differently over the next few weeks, Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich said Monday.

Major changes will include:

• Out-of-custody defendants with cases in General Sessions and/or Criminal Court will have their cases reset automatically to the corresponding day of the week of April 20, 2020, through May 5, 2020. You do not need to appear at 201 Poplar.

Here is the updated schedule:

• In-custody cases are top priority and will be handled as usual.

• There will be no jury trials until further notice.

• The Shelby County Grand Jury will not meet until further notice.

• If you are a victim or a witness subpoenaed by the DA’s office, someone from the DA’s office will contact you. If you have not been contacted within a day of your ordered appearance, please call 901-222-1300 and ask for the Victim Witness Unit.

Other important numbers to keep:

General Sessions Criminal Court Clerk – 901-222-3500

Criminal Court Clerk – 901-222-3200


Gold Strike Casino Resort (Monday, March 16)

GM Resorts International announced its decision to temporarily suspend operations at its two Mississippi properties, Beau Rivage Resort & Casino and Gold Strike Casino Resort, until further notice, effective as of Tuesday, March 17th. Casino operations will close at 6 a.m. CST, followed by hotel operations.

“Our highest priority remains the health and wellbeing of our guests and employees. We will work to mitigate the impact this will have on our employees, partners and communities,” said MGM Chief Operating Officer and president Bill Hornbuckle. “We will continue monitoring the situation and announce plans for reopening when appropriate.”

Crosstown Arts (Saturday, March 14)

Crosstown Arts is working to help slow the potential transmission of coronavirus and is postponing all music performances, public events, gallery open hours, Shared Art Making open hours, and food/beverage service at the cafe and Art Bar through April 1. Refunds to any ticketed events will be issued within 48 hours.

For updates about when these spaces and programs will resume normal operation, please look for an announcement in the Crosstown Arts newsletter; check out crosstownarts.org; or follow Crosstown Arts on social media — Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens (Monday, March 16)

Dear Friends,

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is above all concerned for the health and safety of our visitors, employees, and many volunteers. We are measuring our response to the new Coronavirus/COVID 19 by the best and most current information available from the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Shelby County Health Department, the American Alliance of Museums, all the area hospitals, and the City of Memphis. We have taken part in conference calls with the Association of Art Museum Directors, ArtsMemphis, and the Cultural Coalition of Memphis to learn how other organizations are gathering information and making decisions. We have been impressed by the spirit of cooperation, the sharing of information, the sacrifice, and the genuine compassion of the cultural sector in Memphis.

The Dixon has taken a number of actions—some very difficult—in trying to combat the spread of Coronavirus/COVID 19 in our community. Effective Tuesday, March 17, we are closing the Dixon Galleries, the museum facility, for the next two weeks. We will see where we are on Monday, March 30. Count on regular updates. We also are cancelling all education and outreach programs, whether in the museum or in the gardens, and asking our many volunteers to work from home the next two weeks or to take a few days off.

The Dixon is also canceling or postponing the following large events: the Margaret Oates Dixon Society gathering (18 March); the Philipp Laagland lecture (19 March); the Daffodil Show (20-21 March); the Director of Horticulture tour of ‘Dixon Blooms’ (24 March); the Memphis Flower Show (3-5 April); the Cosmopolitans Spring Party (9 April); and the Dixon Easter Egg Hunt (11 April). The Dixon is determined to make good and transparent decisions for the safety of our visitors, staff, and volunteers, and to get reliable information to you in a timely fashion.

For the time being, the Dixon Gardens will remain open. If you come to the gardens, please be considerate of one another’s personal space. Temporary social distancing is one of the very simple actions we can all practice—along with staying home if we feel ill, washing our hands vigorously and frequently, and refraining from touching our faces—to thwart COVID 19. The Dixon has also doubled and tripled our cleaning and disinfecting efforts around our campus.

The best thing the Dixon can do for our community right now is to eliminate any close public interactions that are not necessary. Don’t get me wrong, art is essential, but it is also eternal, and it will be waiting for you in the Dixon Galleries when we reopen. And the Dixon Gardens await you. With 200,000 tulips and other flowering bulbs coming into bloom, the gardens offer abundant joy and solace in these challenging times. I repeat, our seventeen acres also present more than ample room for safe social distancing. Please respect the personal space of others while you are here.

Thank you for your support of the Dixon. We will get through this together.

Kevin Sharp

Stax Museum of American Soul Music (Monday, March 16)

The Soulsville Foundation – which operates the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Stax Music Academy, and The Soulsville Charter School at the original site of Stax Records in Memphis, Tennessee –has made the difficult decision to temporarily close the Stax Museum beginning March 18, 2020 out of concern for the safety of its employees, visitors, volunteers, and other guests amid the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

While we have not seen any signs of COVID-19 among our staff and visitors, we feel that we should take this preventative measure because the circumstances surrounding the virus are changing by the hour and we always err on the side of caution when it comes to safety, which is our top priority.

While the museum’s closure status will be reevaluated every two weeks, it is postponing until further notice all events and programs until at least April 30, 2020.

The Stax Museum is unique in that it is not only an international tourist destination drawing people from around the world and a community-based museum offering free programming for the general public throughout the year, but it also shares the same campus as the aforementioned Stax Music Academy and The Soulsville Charter School, which provide education and other services to roughly 800 children and families each day. In keeping with Shelby County Schools’ policies, both schools are closed until March 30, 2020.

“Like the rest of the world, we are deeply concerned about the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak,” said Soulsville Foundation President and CEO Richard Greenwald. “We realize that many of the Stax Museum’s guests travel to Memphis from across the United States and from other countries and, given the propensity for the virus to affect those traveling, we feel it’s our responsibility to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by temporarily closing the Stax Museum. It’s not an easy decision but we feel it’s the right thing to do at this time.”

In the meantime, the Soulsville Foundation will continue deep cleaning and sanitizing of all its facilities and following all protocol set forth by the American Alliance of Museums, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Shelby County Health Department, and other relevant organizations. We urge everyone to follow these guidelines to help stop the spread of the virus.

We will keep the public updated on any and all changes during this time and regret any inconvenience.

“Our hearts go out to the millions of people being affected by COVID-19,” Greenwald continued. “Our hope is that the pandemic will eventually subside and we can return to business as usual of preserving and promoting the legacy of Stax Records in the many ways we do that.”

Earnestine & Hazel’s (Posted there Thursday, March 12)

Toby Sells

Earnestine & Hazel’s wil shut down for two weeks.

Owners of Earnestine & Hazel’s closed the “most popular dive bar in America” for two weeks in a memorandum that appeared on the bar’s front door Thursday.

“I hope my actions are going to be considered overkill, perhaps like taking a flame thrower to a cockroach,” said co-owner (and medical doctor) Dr. Kevin Merigian. “My intuition tells me otherwise.

Agricenter (Monday, March 16)

Agricenter is closely monitoring the recommendations from the CDC and Shelby County Health Department as it relates to COVID-19 in our region. CDC issued guidance over the weekend on limiting gatherings to 50 people or less.

Effective immediately, all event activities in Agricenter’s Expo Center, ShowPlace Arena, and Farmer’s Market that are larger than 50 people will be postponed or cancelled through March 31, 2020.

Agricenter is working closely with show organizers to reschedule their events as possible. Event notices will be posted on the events page here: www.agricenter.org/events

Memphis International Raceway (Monday, March 16)

Memphis International Raceway (MIR) and its parent company IRG Sports + Entertainment (IRGSE) have made changes to the upcoming event schedule in adherence with national, state and local public health officials’ recommendations to limit the spread of COVID-19.

• The 34th annual Super Chevy Show has been postponed and rescheduled to Sept. 25-27, 2020
• Memphis International Raceway will host an action-packed doubleheader weekend by combining the 34th annual Super Chevy Show with the ARCA Racing Series 200 championship race of the Sioux Chief Showdown Saturday, Sept. 26 – this is a weekend you will not want to miss
• Anyone who has purchased tickets to the 34th Annual Super Chevy Show will be able to transfer their tickets to the rescheduled date of Sept. 25-27, 2020.


Children’s Museum of Memphis (Monday, March 16)

The Children’s Museum of Memphis will be closed temporarily as a safety measure beginning Tuesday, March 17, based on the CDC and local health departmental recommendations.

Dr. Stewart Burgess, Executive Director of the museum, said: “Although we have not had any presumed or confirmed cases of the virus at the museum, we would rather do our part to protect the safety of our visitors, staff, and the community.”

Although we are making this adjustment, we plan to provide parents with fun, educational materials, and creative suggestions to keep their children engaged. And, of course, we will have some fun activities planned for when this concern has been resolved.

Our staff will continue to monitor released health updates and will post any updates on our website and social channels.

Indie Memphis (Monday, March 16)

Indie Memphis is postponing upcoming events in March and April as a precaution to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

If you purchased a ticket to a film screening, you will be receiving a refund and/or your member credits will be returned.

Our youth film mentor teams have been recommended to meet virtually during this time to avoid close contact.

I am in regular communication with our peer arts organizations in Memphis and around the country as the situation evolves. We look forward to announcing new programming and rescheduling screenings when the time is appropriate.

National Civil Rights Museum (Monday, March 16)

The Lorraine Motel is among the three sites in Memphis to be included on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

A Special Alert from the National Civil Rights Museum
regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

With news of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic escalating, the National Civil Rights Museum will temporarily CLOSED to the public, beginning Tuesday, March 17, until further notice. We recognize that this situation is extremely fluid and feel it necessary to halt operations to ensure the safety of our employees and guests.

While the Museum is closed, all public events and programming are cancelled. This includes our annual April 4th commemorative service.

We will provide frequent updates on any changes in our operations status. Thank you for your understanding as we work together to ensure a safe environment for everyone associated with the Museum.

For more information from health officials regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Kroc Center of Memphis

In light of the national developments and rapidly changing conditions regarding the spread of COVID-19 (commonly referred to as coronavirus), the Kroc Center of Memphis has temporarily suspended all public programming and operations effective immediately.

As risks have increased regarding community spread of COVID-19 across Memphis and the Mid-South, we have considered all options and have ultimately decided to follow CDC guidelines to limit public exposures. As such, all activity, with the exception of Spring Break camp, will be suspended in our building effective Monday, March 16. Spring Break Camp will be held March 16-17 only.

As this matter evolves, we will offer facility updates on when we plan to reopen. Our local and national Kroc Center teams are working within parameters set forth by the CDC and the guidance of local government to determine when we can safely return to normal operations. For those that are enrolled in programs, we will communicate plans for rescheduling as that information becomes available. If you have any questions in the interim, please contact us at info@krocmemphis.org. You may also call 901.729.8007, and press 2.

Temporarily closing our doors is a difficult decision, as we balance being available to the community with being proactive in the interest of public health. We are grateful to have your understanding and patience during this time.

We truly appreciate your support and commitment to helping us create a welcoming space for Worship, Arts, Education, and Recreation. We know that staying fit and active is our best way to build a strong immune system and stay healthy. Even though you can’t make it in to join us in person, here is a FREE online option of our Les Mills fitness classes to help keep you active and working out at home. This platform offers 95 free workouts across 8 categories and it will remain available as long as the disruption from Coronavirus continues. Additionally, we plan to post on our social media platforms, providing tips to stay active and engaged over the coming day.

Please continue to observe the recommended practices for maintaining good health, and we look forward to seeing you when the Kroc Center reopens.

Blessings,

The Salvation Army Kroc Center

Memphis Restaurant Association (Monday, March 16)

Postponed – Pro Tips for Avoiding ADA Nightmares
We feel it is responsible to postpone the March membership meeting at this time.

Thanks to Evans Petree for being flexible and agreeing to speak at a later date which is to be determined.

Brooks Museum of Art (Sunday, March 15)

We have made the painful but necessary decision to temporarily close the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, effective Sunday, March 15 at 5:00 pm until March 31, 2020. This includes all public programming.⁣

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Since March 4, the Brooks staff has made extraordinary efforts to disinfect and sanitize its spaces. We now believe we must close temporarily to further limit transmission of COVID-19, and do all we can as a public institution to ensure the safety of our visitors, staff, volunteers and community.⁣
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We understand how rapidly this situation is evolving, so we will provide updates as we have more information. ⁣
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Meanwhile, as one of our region’s greatest cultural assets, we hope that you will enjoy checking our website and social media to experience our temporary exhibition, “Native Voices, 1950s to Now: Art for a New Understanding,” our great permanent collection of paintings, sculpture, drawings, photographs, decorative arts, and new media; and snapshots of some of our nationally-recognized educational programs in action. ⁣
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We appreciate your support of the Brooks and our efforts to care for our community. We assure you that our staff and Board are committed to making this effort as effective and smooth as possible for everyone in our great city.
Categories
News News Blog

Road-Rage Woman Waves Gun, Impersonates Cop, Busted By Cop

Pro tip: If you’re going to impersonate a police officer, make sure you’re not doing it in front of a real police officer.

Pro tip 2: Memphis police officers can be found at the buildings at 201 Poplar.

Linda Turner, 59, was convicted this week on a bevy of charges. All of them were related to an incident two years ago in which she pointed a gun at a pedestrian and her two-year-old granddaughter and then impersonated a police officer.

Here are the details from Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich’s office:

“The incident happened on September 16th, 2017, when a woman, 48, and her granddaughter were crossing Poplar at Fourth Street.

Turner began honking her horn and gesturing toward the woman because she was walking too slowly, and the two then exchanged words. A witness said Turner then rolled down her window and pointed a loaded handgun at the pedestrian and her granddaughter.

When the pedestrian threatened to call police, Turner replied, ‘I am the police.’ A police officer at nearby 201 Poplar observed the disturbance and placed Turner under arrest.”

Turner is free on bond and is scheduled to be sentenced next month by Judge Jennifer Mitchell. Turner was convicted on charges this week of reckless endangerment and attempted criminal impersonation of a police officer.

Categories
News News Blog

Health Department Debunks Internet Rumor of Coronavirus at 201 Poplar

CREDIT: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

Health Department Debunks Internet Rumor of Coronavirus at 201 Poplar (3)

Nope. Not according to the Shelby County Health Department Thursday afternoon.

“That is absolutely not true,” said Joan Carr, the department’s public information officer. “There are NO coronavirus cases or suspect cases in Memphis or specifically 201 Poplar.”

As of Wednesday, the virus has only been confirmed in four states — California, Washington, Illinois, and Arizona — by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health officials in Arkansas are awaiting test results for a patient who had recently travelled to China, according to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. That patient is in isolation and test results are expected tomorrow.

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

But if you tuned into Memphis social media Thursday, you might be wondering if the coronavirus has spread to the confines of the Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Center at 201 Poplar.

Health Department Debunks Internet Rumor of Coronavirus at 201 Poplar

 

Health Department Debunks Internet Rumor of Coronavirus at 201 Poplar (2)

Carr said the annual, seasonal flu has killed eight children in Tennessee so far this year and has put thousands of people in the hospital. The flu is spreading through Shelby County right now, she said.

“We are literally giving the flu vaccine away at all the public health clinics right now, and very few people are taking advantage of it,” Carr said. “If Memphians are really worried about respiratory viruses, they should go out and get a free flu vaccine, because they are far more likely to get the flu from someone in the next cubicle than they are to get the novel coronavirus from China.”

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Man Racks Up 80th Conviction for Attack Inside 201 Poplar

Smith

Imagine being comfortable enough at 201 Poplar to commit a crime inside 201 Poplar. Warren Percy Smith was, apparently.

The Millington man has 80 criminal convictions stretching back to 1988. He was convicted Thursday of molesting a court clerk in the lower level of the Walter L. Bailey, Jr. Criminal Justice Center — 201 Poplar — a sort of one-stop shop for criminals with cops, courtrooms, judges, and a jail.

A 25-year-old employee of the General Sessions Court Clerk’s Office was talking with someone, according to information from Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich’s office, when Smith came up behind her. He “grabbed her and went through the motions of performing a sexual act.”
[pullquote-1] Smith left the building. But the victim reported the incident to police who later saw Smith in clothing described by the victim. A deputy recognized Smith, “who is a regular in and around 201 Poplar, and the victim later identified him in a photo spread.”

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The Shelby County Criminal justice Center at 201 Poplar.

The incident occurred in December 2017. On Thursday, a jury took less than 30 minutes to convict Smith. He is being held on $35,000 bond and faces up to four years in prison when he is sentenced on May 24th by Judge Jennifer Mitchell.

Since 1988, Smith has been arrested and convicted of 78 previous criminal offenses, including 75 misdemeanors and three felonies. The offenses include public intoxication, theft, criminal trespassing, disorderly conduct, assault, and resisting official detention. Smith also has felony convictions involving cocaine trafficking and aggravated burglary.

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On Camera

CREDIT: Monitor: Jose Manuel Gelpi Diaz | dreamstime.com; Inmate: Lou Oates | dreamstime.com

In the movies, prison visits often end as visitors and inmates place their palms on either side of a glass panel separating convicts from the public. But as of last month, male inmates at the Shelby County Jail are no longer able to get so close to loved ones.

These days, jail visitors talk to inmates through a computer monitor. Thirty video visitation stations have been installed in housing units at the 201 Poplar facility, and another 31 will be operational soon.

Using the old system, inmates had to be transported down several floors to the visitation area. The new stations are installed on each floor.

“As opposed to moving inmates a few floors, now they can move a few steps to talk on a computer monitor that connects them instantly to a family member or attorney,” says Steve Shular, a spokesperson for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Shular says the decision to switch to video stations was primarily a safety issue.

“Every time you take an inmate out of a cell and move him off the floor, that movement creates a potential safety issue,” Shular says.

Visitors will continue to use the old visitation area to view inmates on computer screens. But Shular says the department hopes to eventually install monitors in other public places.

“In the future, people might even be able to go to a public library and visit with an inmate through a video station,” Shular says. “That’s especially important for people with elderly family members who cannot get to the jail.”

Stations have already been installed at the Shelby County Public Defender’s Office so attorneys can have a direct link with their clients while avoiding jail security measures. And plans are in the works to have cameras installed inside courtrooms, allowing inmates to be arraigned without ever leaving the jail.

The $700,000 system was installed with money generated from inmate telephone calls. When an inmate places collect calls to friends and family, the receiver is charged $1.50 for a 15-minute block of time. That money goes into a county general fund that can be used for jail improvement projects.

Female inmates will still conduct visits the old-fashioned way, however. Their facility at Jail East, which was built in 1999, was designed in such a way that inmates can easily be moved to visitation areas.

“Other jails and prison systems around the country have used these video systems,” Shular says. “We thought it was vitally important to get up-to-speed on the new industry standard.”

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No Vacancy?

Petty criminals — shoplifters, vandals, the drunk or disorderly — are getting a slap on the wrist as the county jail nears capacity.

Last week Shelby County sheriff Mark Luttrell asked the County Commission to build a new jail with 3,500 to 4,000 beds. Luttrell indicated that the jail at 201 Poplar is almost full, and to prevent overcrowding, the county is only holding people for serious crimes.

“There’s more scrutiny to determine whether or not a crime can be dealt with as a misdemeanor as opposed to a felony charge,” said Luttrell. “If you didn’t have the pressures of a crowded situation, you might easily write people up for some felony offense and put them in jail. But these are people who don’t really need to be in jail.”

As of last Wednesday, the county jail population was 2,360 inmates, and the facility can only house 2,500. If the population rose above 2,500 inmates, Luttrell would have to mix dangerous criminals with minimum-security inmates.

“When you start mixing minimum-security with maximum-security, you’re talking about a higher-level, more predatory inmate dealing with a lower-level, less predatory inmate. You’ll run into some real risky behavior,” said Luttrell.

The sheriff’s office is using other tactics to keep jail space available for dangerous criminals. About 200 inmates are being held at a satellite facility at the County Corrections Center at Shelby Farms, but that building has nearly reached capacity as well. About 37 juveniles have been diverted to the women’s facility near Shelby Farms. The District Attorney’s Office has been weeding out arrest warrants that involve crimes that may not stand the test of prosecution.

“We’ve got to have some relief,” said Luttrell. “At the Operation Safe Community summit in November, we laid out 15 initiatives to aggressively fight crime. That means we’re going to be locking more people up, which means we’re going to need a new facility.”

Not all county commissioners backed Luttrell’s plan, however. Commissioner Mike Carpenter suggested Luttrell look into having the Corrections Corporation of America build a satellite facility to hold extra inmates. Luttrell expressed his opposition to privatization but said he’ll “discuss it as long as anyone wants to.

“I’m not convinced that privatization will save us that much money without impacting operational efficiency,” said Luttrell.

Commissioner Mike Ritz suggested housing more inmates at the Penal Farm.

“The County Correctional Center can’t hold too many more,” said Luttrell. “They’ve told us they can’t afford to give us any more buildings.”

Luttrell said he’ll begin requesting proposals from architectural firms in the next couple weeks. He expects to present a final proposal to the County Commission by July or August.