Latest news with #Memphians
Style Blueprint
14-07-2025
- Business
- Style Blueprint
She Launched Jasper Float Spa, the Mid-South's First Urban Wellness Retreat
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit An accountant by trade with 15 years of corporate financial experience under her belt, this week's FACE of Memphis once helped others build their empires — before realizing she could build her own. Antwanette Crutcher is the visionary entrepreneur behind Jasper Float Spa & Wellness, the Mid-South's first urban wellness retreat. Offering sauna, massage, float therapy, and more, meet the woman who's helping Memphians recharge and avoid burnout. Pin What inspired you to open a luxury rest and recovery spa? During the pandemic, I worked from home around the clock, wore many hats, and felt overwhelmingly burned out. To help relieve stress, I took a girls' spa trip to California and experienced float therapy for the first time. It was very transformative and offered my mind relief for the first time that I could truly remember. In fact, that same night, I couldn't sleep due to a strong conviction about the business idea. My purpose and calling in that season became crystal clear: to help the busy and burned out find peace, rest, and balance when they need it most … without having to wait for a vacation. I envisioned a space that serves as an everyday rest and wellness haven. Before leaving the spa, I knew I was destined to launch a similar experience in Memphis. What lessons have you learned that have helped you become successful? Everything works together! All experiences, whether good or bad, are lessons to set you up for a successful future. One of my most valuable lessons was learning to thrive in the unknown. As an entrepreneur, this mindset is critical to adopt and sustain through every phase of scaling a business. You must also have a vision when navigating the unknown. It will keep you sane to remember why you're building as you trailblaze to the end goal, especially if you're building something the world has never seen. Which leads me to my last, most impactful lesson: exercising creativity is a superpower. Sometimes you are looking for a blueprint, but there is none. The universe is waiting for you to create it! You are the solution. Use what's in your hands and never despise small beginnings. Pin What philosophy guides your services and the overall experience at Jasper Float Spa & Wellness? Our guiding philosophy is a people-first approach, which is also our core value. We believe in treating every individual with kindness and care, providing a personalized experience that prioritizes helping our clients feel their absolute best in mind, body, and soul. What can someone new to float therapy expect? If you're new to float therapy, prepare for a uniquely calming and restorative experience. We offer a waterless float therapy called REST Therapy (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy), which uses an innovative zero-gravity lounger and custom-blend high-density beading to cradle your body and mimic the sensation of floating, enhanced by a heated and weighted blanket. This meticulously designed environment minimizes external stimuli, allowing your mind and body to deeply relax into a meditative state, often leading to profoundly rejuvenating sleep. Our REST Therapy is designed for express rejuvenation, fitting seamlessly into your busy schedule. Unlike traditional float therapy, it doesn't require extensive pre- or post-float preparations, meaning you can tap into the power of deep rest on your own time. It's perfect for a quick reset, embodying our vision of being an everyday rest and wellness haven. Pin How do you make each visit feel personal? We genuinely care about your individual needs and preferences because we want you to feel your absolute best. Our highly skilled team is dedicated to providing a truly pampering experience, understanding that sometimes, you simply need someone else to take care of you. You don't have to bear the weight of caring for everyone else, including yourself — we've got you covered. We meticulously curate each detail to ensure your wellness experience allows you to fully relax and rejuvenate. Are there any new services, classes, or expansions in the works you're excited about? We've reached an exciting point where our success and the overwhelming demand for our rest and recovery services mean we've lovingly outgrown our current space. With an expanded team and a growing clientele base, we're eagerly looking forward to expanding our reach and impact, growing alongside the community by offering even more opportunities for profound relaxation and rejuvenation. Pin How do you stay grounded and well, especially as a small business owner? As a small business owner, maintaining a constant flow of rest is absolutely essential. For me, this involves a combination of daily, weekly, and monthly practices. Each morning, I prioritize renewing my mind and reviewing what truly matters, setting a focused tone for the day. My weekly routine includes dedicated time for physical rest, which is where my love for Sundays comes in. I love Sundays — easy like Sunday mornings! Those who know me know I don't work on Sundays and rarely attend Sunday events. That day is sacred for family time, rest, reflection, soul/spiritual nourishment, mind care, planning, and preparation for the week ahead. It's easily the secret sauce to my flow. Monthly practices further focus on mind and body care, and I'm truly blessed to employ some of the best therapists in Memphis to help with that. REST Therapy is my favorite of all our services, helping ensure all aspects of my well-being are addressed. If you could give one piece of wellness advice to every person who walks through your door, what would it be? Prioritize a constant flow of rest and intimately understand what you're truly grounded in. Consistent rest is the foundation for staying grounded and showing up with confidence. Knowing your purpose helps you navigate challenges, and when life is off balance, pause to reset. Personal well-being doesn't have to wait for a vacation. Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can't live without? A clear sense of purpose, the cultivation of positivity, and the restorative power nap. Pin Thank you, Antwanette! ********** For more inspirational FACES of Memphis, click HERE! About the Author Gaye Swan As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Greatest Memphian of all time': Former mayor reflects on relationship with Fred Smith
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Former Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland is reflecting on his time spent with FedEx founder Fred Smith, who died on Saturday. Strickland, a two-term mayor of the city, interacted with Smith often and on various projects. 'Such a unique, remarkable person that we've been blessed to have here in Memphis,' Strickland said. 'One of the honors I had as being mayor was getting to interact with Fred on a fairly regular basis.' Strickland says while he's shocked and saddened by his passing, he reflects on the business titan's remarkable impact. 'He is absolutely the greatest Memphian of all time,' Strickland said. 'I mean, think about 30,000 people in this area who work for FedEx. It's the largest private employer in the state. I remember when I would go to Mayor's conferences and we would talk about big employers. Thirty thousand is beyond belief for one city and one area, and he's allowed generations of Memphians to live the American dream.' City leaders offer condolences following Fred Smith's death Smith did so while also giving back. 'From the FedEx Forum to the FedEx Institute at the University of Memphis, every good thing in Memphis for 40 or 50 years involves him or his family or somebody at FedEx,' Strickland said. But his influence includes more than just donations to countless groups. 'And then on just a personal level, advising and mentoring so many people at FedEx and outside of FedEx, I took his advice all the time,' Strickland said. 'I remember I asked his advice on economic development, and he told me, 'Take care of your meds and eds,' meaning you're higher education facilities and you're medical facilities because they're going to be here for you. I put that into practice, and St. Jude wanted to expand, and they needed $25 million to greatly improve the sewer system down there in the Pinch [district]. We signed onto that immediately.' Strickland offers his advice to continue Fred Smith's legacy. 'Strive to be the best you can be, because he did and he achieved greatness. Now we may not be able to achieve or equal his greatness for sure, but we can be inspired to do our best, in our profession, in our education, in our personal lives, and as a community, engaged in our community. He excelled in all those areas,' Strickland said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Extra.ie
22-06-2025
- Business
- Extra.ie
Billionaire FedEx founder dies aged 80, leaving behind legacy and 10 children
Fred Smith, the billionaire entrepreneur who transformed the global delivery industry by founding FedEx, has died at the age of 80. Smith launched FedEx in 1973 with a groundbreaking idea: a faster, more efficient way to deliver small parcels and documents than the traditional postal service. Starting with just 14 aircraft operating out of Memphis International Airport, the company serviced 25 U.S. cities in its early days. His innovative 'hub and spokes' model, coordinating air cargo flights around a central hub, quickly became a cornerstone of modern logistics. Under Smith's leadership, FedEx grew into a global powerhouse, now delivering an astonishing 17 million parcels every day. His cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Under Smith's leadership, FedEx grew into a global powerhouse, now delivering an astonishing 17 million parcels every day. A Yale University graduate, Smith famously drew on a business theory he developed during his college years to create the foundation for FedEx. Worth an estimated $5.3 billion at the time of his death, according to Forbes, Smith was also a dedicated philanthropist. He donated millions to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, supporting the families of those who served. Though he stepped down as CEO in 2022, Smith remained deeply involved with the company as executive chairman. Fred Smith. Pic: Getty His passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from political and business leaders alike. Memphis's former mayor Jim Strickland called him 'the most significant Memphian in history,' adding: 'He benefited our city in every way possible and allowed generations of Memphians to achieve the American dream. God bless Fred Smith. My condolences to the Smith family.' Smith is survived by his wife and 10 children.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mayor proposes ordinance to invest xAI tax revenue into Memphis communities
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Mayor Paul Young announced an ordinance he is taking to the city council that would turn tax revenue from xAI into investments for Memphians. Mayor Paul Young was on News 3 at 3, defending Elon Musk's artificial intelligence facility in an interview with Alex Coleman on Thursday. 'I think that there's been a lot claims and accusations made without being rooted in fact,' Young said. 'I think it's really important to balance the conversation.' Environmental groups have claimed that xAI plans to install 45 to 90 gas turbines to power their supercomputer, and is operating turbines illegally. Rep. Justin Pearson, NAACP aim to halt xAI project in Memphis Young said he doesn't know where those numbers came from, but the company had 35 methane-gas turbines. It has dropped down to 21 turbines and would only use 15 for backup power. The company legally has 365 days to use them without a permit. Young said he understood that citizens feel like they weren't told much about the project before it launched, but he said that is because, unlike many other developments, xAI didn't ask for public incentives from the start. 'In this instance, we flipped it on its head, we said 75% can go to the broader community, but 25% of this investment should stay right here in the neighborhood,' said Mayor Young. Memphis mayor meets with state leaders over xAI concerns 'We can do both things. We can make sure that we are protecting our people, protecting the environment, and that we're bringing historic investment to our neighborhoods and communities,' he said. 'Well, in its first year, there is going to be $25 million between the city and county that's invested in the community,' said Mayor Young. He told WREG the city is set to receive about $12 million in tax revenue, and 25% of that will be going to communities around the supercomputer facility. 'We'll be able to do home repairs, repair roofs, repair HVAC systems, remove lead and contaminants that are actually making people sick,' said Mayor Young. 'Global arms race with artificial intelligence': TN rep. supports xAI project moving forward The clarification comes two days after state lawmakers weighed in on xAI. Earlier this week, activists led by state Rep. Justin J. Pearson demanded that leaders fight to stop xAI from moving forward in Memphis by denying permit applications for the turbines. Young then met with those leaders to discuss their concerns. 'Lawmakers Meet with Mayor Young about xAI,' said State Rep. Justin Pearson (D-Memphis). 'I stand firm that that nothing matters if you can not breathe clean air, drink clean water, and plant in clean soil.' 'The reason they filed for that permit is because they want those turbines to be back-up power because they are going to be tapping into the MLGW grid,' said Young. Memphis mayor meets with state leaders over xAI concerns Young said that xAI's Grey Water Facility will handle reducing the strain on the aquifer by 9%. 'It's also going to allow TVA, who does have a well that is drilled into the aquifer when they pull 6 and a half million gallons of water a day, it's going to allow them to get off the aquifer,' said Mayor Young. He said the rumors of him signing a non-disclosure agreement and a big personal cash deal with xAI are not true. Young said what is true is that xAI has the potential to grow the digital delta infusing much-needed high-tech jobs and tax dollars in the Mid-South. 'So while the number of jobs at xAI is roughly around 200 now, our goal is to figure out how we amplify.' The mayor told WREG that talks have started on ways to incorporate AI-based training in schools. Top schools mentioned to be included in the potential program are Whitehaven, John P. Freeman, Fairley, Mitchell, and Westwood. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Global arms race with artificial intelligence': TN rep. supports xAI project moving forward
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A state representative from Memphis says he supports Elon Musk's xAI, and says the company is planning up to eight more sites in the area. Republican state Rep. John Gillespie's comments came after state representatives had a press conference on Tuesday against the project moving forward. 'Why is economic development always at the cost of poor folk? Always at the cost of low wel people? We as a city have to have higher self-esteem, we as a city have to believe better about who we are,' said State Rep. Justin J. Pearson, (D-Memphis). Pearson and other democratic lawmakers met with Memphis Mayor Paul Young on Tuesday. Republican Rep. John Gillespie (R-Memphis) says he was there too, and he has a different take on xAI. Memphis mayor meets with state leaders over xAI concerns 'I'm extremely excited and the potential of all the other things that will follow,' said Gillespie. 'We're in a global arms race with artificial intelligence.' 'We're competing not with Silicon Valley, but we're actually competing with China and Russia, and North Korea. xAI and people at xAI have said that they plan on winning that arms race,' said Gillespie. In a statement, he talked about the large amount of tax dollars the company brings also saying, 'Hundreds of Memphians are currently working in construction as xAI plans to build on at least eight sites in Shelby County. ' Rep. Justin Pearson, NAACP aim to halt xAI project in Memphis 'Right now if you do look up, xAI has four sites right now that they have and they've publicly said more are to come. I don't know how many that number is, I hope it's more than eight but I suspect it will be more than eight as well,' said Gillespie. 'Well the data that I've seen and the health department has confirmed and the manufacturer of the turbines have also confirmed, they have technology on there that makes it no more than a dry cleaning or a gas station,' said Gillespie. Mayor Paul Young said there are plans to bring more community-based testing of the air quality in the area of xAI. 'My goal is to make sure our people are protected from a health perspective and that we use this project to boost our city economically,' said Mayor Young. Gillespie says he's all for the testing. It's unclear when that testing will be happening in southwest Memphis and the Boxtown community. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
