2016 Society of Entrepreneurs Inductee: Bob Loeb

"Bob Loeb will take a moment to point out who’s who in a series of remarkable images hanging on the walls of Loeb Properties. 

The framed newspaper advertisements offer the sort of nostalgia that brings a smile to Memphians of a certain age. Bob and his siblings were prominently featured in the decades-old ads that touted the enterprises of their father, Bill Loeb, who put the entrepreneurial family’s name on stores all over the region, selling, among other things, laundry and dry cleaning services, and Loeb’s Tasty Bar-B-Q (“The Best Little Pig on the Market”). "

Read more in Inside Memphis Business

MUS Today: Overton Square Over Again

"That was Overton Square in the 1970s, conceived by a group of young and ambitious businessmen. They transformed the quiet Midtown intersection of Cooper and Madison into Memphis’ premier destination for a good time. Judging by recent Friday night crowds, one might imagine that the mojo never subsided – that the patios have always been a swirling mix of theatergoers, bachelor parties, yoga students, and foodies. But not only did Overton Square spend nearly two decades on life support, it nearly flatlined a few years ago.

The storefronts were bare. Out-of-town owners balked at the cost of renovation. Bulldozers would flatten the block. In its place would rise a strip mall and a discount grocery store. Fortunately, Overton Square was reclaimed by Memphians who wanted their good times back. It required a special group of people to build – and then rebuild – the heart of Midtown Memphis. But then, Overton Square has always benefited from bold and progressive backers – many of whom call Memphis University School their alma mater."

Read more in the MUS Owls Summer Newsletter