MRG Celebrates 20 Years of a Beloved Holiday Tradition: Smoked Turkeys and Gratitude

November 26, 2025

The holiday season at MRG has always been rooted in gratitude — for our teams, our residents, and the communities we serve. For the past 20 years, one tradition has captured that spirit better than anything else: celebrating with smoked turkeys from Corky’s BBQ, a Memphis classic known for its unmistakable flavor and hometown warmth.

What began as a simple gesture of appreciation has grown into one of the most anticipated moments of the year across our portfolio.

A Tradition With Many Expressions Across Our Communities

In the early years, each apartment property received turkeys to prepare and enjoy together — a shared meal that brought leasing teams, managers, and maintenance crews around the same table. Many of our communities still keep this tradition alive, using their turkeys to host an on-site team gathering that feels every bit like the start of the holidays.

Other teams take home individual turkeys to enjoy with family or friends. Some share them with neighbors, and others choose to donate theirs to someone in need. Every location does it a little differently, and that’s part of what makes the tradition special — it has room for every team’s personality and rhythm.

Keeping the Spirit Alive Through Change

When the pandemic made large gatherings impossible, the heart behind the tradition didn’t fade. Teams continued receiving turkeys in a way that allowed them to celebrate safely. Instead of losing the sense of togetherness, the tradition simply shifted — more kitchens were filled with Corky’s aroma, more families enjoyed the meal, and even more turkeys found their way to households in need.

What started as an internal celebration quietly became a wider form of generosity across the Memphis area.

The Joy of Turkey Pickup Day

One of the first signs of the holiday season is pickup day at MRG’s office. Employees from all corners of the portfolio — Memphis, North Mississippi, and everywhere in between — stop by the office to pick up their turkeys. The lobby fills with cheerful waves, quick catch-ups, and the kind of warm energy that instantly signals the holidays have arrived.

It’s a reminder that even in a busy season, those small moments of connection matter.

Supporting Our Memphis Community

Alongside this long-standing employee tradition, MRG also donates to local food banks during the holiday season. This effort helps support families across our region and reflects the same spirit of giving that defines our turkey tradition. Whether it’s a turkey shared with a neighbor or a donation delivered to a food pantry, we believe every act of care adds something meaningful to the community.

A Memphis Tradition Built on Appreciation

Twenty years in, this tradition is still one of the most beloved parts of the season. It brings together our teams, honors the work they do every day, and extends warmth far beyond our office walls.

As long as there are holidays to celebrate — and people to appreciate — we’ll proudly keep this Memphis tradition going.