Author

A.J Dugger III and Cole Bradley

A.J. Dugger III is an award-winning journalist and native Memphian who joined High Ground as lead writer for its signature series, On the Ground, in August 2019. Previously, he wrote for numerous publications in West Tennessee and authored two books, “Southern Terror” and “The Dealers: Then and Now.” He has also appeared as a guest expert on the true-crime series, “For My Man.” For more information, visit ajdugger.net.

Cole Bradley is a native Memphian, graduate of the University of Memphis and High Ground's managing editor. Cole's worked locally as a researcher and community engagement strategist and joined the High Ground team in Jan 2017. Cole is passionate about solutions journalism and anthro-journalism, fusing anthropological methods for deep community engagement with people-centered, sidewalk-level journalism.

A.J Dugger III and Cole Bradley's Latest Articles

On February 7, “A Family Affair” will feature music, discussions, and games aimed at raising awareness of the need for organ donation among black Mid-Southerners. (Mid-South Transplant Foundation)
Memphis needs more African American organ donors.

The Mid-South Transplant Foundation and partners Hope City Church and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are throwing a party with food, games, music, and discussions on the need for organ donation among black Mid-Southerners.

Artist Terry Lynn's original sculpture design will pay homage to Foote Homes, the former public housing project that was raze for redevelopment into the new South City mixed-income development. (Symmbol Sanderlin)
Local artist creating sculpture for South City honoring legacy of Foote Homes

The redevelopment of South City will include a steel sculpture by Memphian Terry Lynn. The sculpture will honor the legacy of Foote Homes, Lynn's grandfather, and future hopes for South City.

Don't be intimidated by the long lines at La Michoacana's Summer Avenue location. They move quickly and the reward is worth the wait. (Josh McLane, La Michoacana)
Ice cream shop La Michoacana is prepping for two new locations in Olive Branch, Little Rock

Well-loved treat shop La Michoacana has six locations across the Mid-South. The family-owned business is now planning for new stores in Olive Branch and Little Rock. 

Community Court Referees John Cameron mediates cases involving common code violations. Community Courts are hosted in Hickory Hill and other communities, which helps residents avoid going Downtown for Environmental Court. (Lisa Harris)
Neighborhood Justice: How Memphis’ Community Courts are reducing barriers to court appearances

For many Memphians, a Downtown court appearance is more than inconvenient. It's inaccessible. Community Court lets Memphians resolve minor code violations in their own neighborhoods.

Koozies promoting the use of PrEP and The Corner are an example of the type of branded merchandise Friends for Life intends to sell in The Corner's retail area. (Friends for Life)
Opening soon, The Corner offers free HIV prevention in casual space

Friends for Life will open The Corner on November 4. The community space will feature a pharmacy and local art for sale and offer PEP, PrEP, STI testing, education and more for anyone in need. 

A mural still marks the location of the Washington Bottoms Community Park and Garden at the corner of North Watkins and Court streets. (Ziggy Mack)
For sale … again: The saga of Washington Bottoms

Where Midtown and the Medical District meet sits roughly 20 acres of vacant land. It's changed hands repeatedly along with promises and rumors for development, like the fabled Midtown Target. Now it's up for sale again.

Members of the Creatives in Research team assemble tubing that will become 35 umbrella stands strategically placed throughout Madison Heights. (Wonder / Cowork / Create)
Medical District umbrella-share project debuts as usable public art for all

A new public art project is debuting August 28, but it’s far from the typical mural or sculpture. Rain or Shine is usable art inspired by three months of community listening to ensure it truly serves a diverse public.

Our Partners

WKKF logo
Kresge Foundation logo
IFF logo
JP Morgan Chase logo
Ford Foundation logo
Delta Dental Foundation logo

Don't miss out!

Inspiration and ideas in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.