Memphis News Today: Stories That Matter to Our City

Two of Memphis’ most significant historic landmarks are set to receive major federal investment, marking an important step forward in preserving the city’s cultural legacy. Congressman Steve Cohen announced $17 million in Community Project Funding for Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District. Of that total, $4.3 million will support restoration efforts at Mason Temple and Clayborn Temple…

At his annual State of the City address, Mayor Paul Young outlined a vision centered on public safety progress, housing growth, youth opportunity, and culture as a driver of economic momentum, emphasizing that Memphis is rising with intention.  From historic reductions in serious crime to a commitment to building 10,000 new homes in the city’s core by…

Memphis talent took center stage in New Orleans this Mardi Gras season and brought home top honors. Two Memphis-Shelby County Schools marching bands earned first-place victories in Battle of the Bands competitions during Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans, showcasing the strength of music education across the Memphis. Whitehaven High School’s “Sounds of Perfection” Band…

A major investment in one of Memphis’ historic institutions is set to expand opportunity for the next generation of business leaders. FedEx has committed $500,000 to support the business department at LeMoyne-Owen College, reinforcing career readiness, entrepreneurship, and student success at the city’s only historically Black college. The funding will support four key areas: job…

While teacher burnout and job mobility continue to challenge schools nationwide, new data suggests Memphis educators may be charting a different path. According to a 2025 survey from Teach901, local teachers are staying put — and staying satisfied. Nationally, 44% of K–12 teachers report feeling burned out “always” or “very often,” according to Gallup. Federal…

Kenneth Walker III’s journey from Arlington High School to football’s biggest stage reached its defining moment Sunday night. The Memphis native delivered a career performance in Super Bowl LX, earning MVP honors while leading the Seattle Seahawks to a 29–13 victory over the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium. With the win, Seattle captured its…

Memphis is receiving national recognition—and meaningful investment—for the work happening on the ground to prepare young people for the future. The NBA Foundation has announced its 2026 Local Grantees, awarding funding to organizations across the country that are strengthening school-to-career pathways. Among this year’s recipients are several Memphis-based organizations, underscoring the city’s growing role as…

The redevelopment of the former Northside High School continued to make meaningful progress in 2025, positioning Northside Square for a series of phased openings beginning in 2026. The $81 million project, led by community development nonprofit The Works Inc., is transforming the historic campus at 1212 Vollintine Ave. into a 270,000-square-foot mixed-use destination designed to…

The Beale Street Historic District is set for a significant transformation following a $74 million Tennessee Safety Grant awarded to the Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC) by the State of Tennessee. In partnership with the City of Memphis, the DMC will use the funding to advance the Downtown Public Infrastructure Improvement Project, a comprehensive effort focused…