This post is a joint contribution by students Makayla Francis, Sherette Bello-Suazo, and Kevin Banks
Today, January 3rd was the first day of the One America Trip. After an hour flight delay, combined with other delays and an unexpected layover in Tampa, FL, we arrived at our first destination in Memphis, TN at 12:38 pm. Once we obtained our luggage, we went to 
get something to eat at Evelyn and Olive: Jamaican and Southern Cuisine. Although we were all exhausted, we were most definitely looking forward to finally getting real food into our stomachs, and out of the air! The restaurant was absolutely AMAZING! For some of us, this was the first time trying this cuisine and everyone was open to trying something new. I ordered the jerk chicken pasta and each bite melted in my mouth. I also tried a Jamaican soda which was equally good. Our service was superb, and we had the best waitress in the restaurant. She really made our experience memorable. Thank you, Evelyn and Olive, for starting us off and filling our bellies right!
Stax Museum was the first museum we toured on the trip, and it surely wasn’t a disappointment. We started with an informational clip about how Stax records began, who it consisted of, and how it not only changed the music world but how it will continue to live on. The architecture was unquestionably a sight for sore eyes with all of the records lining the walls, the many outfits worn by the musical greats, and the even the little gift shop. Stax was and still is such an influential part of musical history and will continue to be in the future.
We finished off our day with dinner at the B.B. King Blues Club. The club was so lively and fun with many people dancing and singing along to the live music. The band played classic blues songs and fun, upbeat pop as well. Most of us got up and danced alongside the locals and other tourist experiencing the welcoming and homey feel of the club. The food did not disappoint either! We finally got the chance to try Memphis BBQ and were amazed that it lives up to the hype. The blues club was a great way to the end of our night with laughter, good food, and dancing.
