Tonight will be Joey Dorsey's last college basketball game. I just want to be one more in a long line of Tiger fans to say "Thank you, Joey" for being such an important part of this team and for being such a great Memphian while you've been here. Thanks for the memories, and I wish you the very best in your post-college life.
The senior-night tribute to Joey Dorsey. You'll also find several other great videos of some memorable Joey Dorsey dunks.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Just one more game. Go Tigers Go!
I've got a lot of catching up to do, but of course, the No. 1 thing on my mind today--our Memphis Tigers competing for a national championship this evening. Naturally, I'm more than a bit nervous, but I'm also so confident in this team that I really believe we're going to win it all. I'm so happy for the players and coaching staff that they're FINALLY getting the national recognition and respect they deserve. Their run in this tournament has been phenomenal, and people can no longer ignore this team or credit luck with the Tigers making it this far.
But there are also still plenty of naysayers. One of the most awful, mean-spirited sports columns I've ever read was in the L.A. Times this weekend. Bill Plaschke declared that the UCLA-Memphis game would be a coaching mismatch (in favor of Ben Howland, of course) and was just flat-out cruel in talking about John Calipari.
Following the U of M rout of UCLA, Plaschke admitted how wrong he was, but I have to wonder what would have possessed him to write such a scathing story about a Final Four coach in the first place. I'm sure he didn't make any friends on the UCLA campus with his Cal-bashing, Memphis bulletin-board column.
I know I plan to watch Around the Horn on ESPN this afternoon to hear what Plaschke has to say for himself (if he shows up). I hope the other guys really let him have it. He deserves it.
Also, one of my all-time favorite Tiger video clips is now the CDR dunk that sat down Kevin Love and got Joey Dorsey finger-pointing. Check it out at You Got Dunked On.
But there are also still plenty of naysayers. One of the most awful, mean-spirited sports columns I've ever read was in the L.A. Times this weekend. Bill Plaschke declared that the UCLA-Memphis game would be a coaching mismatch (in favor of Ben Howland, of course) and was just flat-out cruel in talking about John Calipari.
Following the U of M rout of UCLA, Plaschke admitted how wrong he was, but I have to wonder what would have possessed him to write such a scathing story about a Final Four coach in the first place. I'm sure he didn't make any friends on the UCLA campus with his Cal-bashing, Memphis bulletin-board column.
I know I plan to watch Around the Horn on ESPN this afternoon to hear what Plaschke has to say for himself (if he shows up). I hope the other guys really let him have it. He deserves it.
Also, one of my all-time favorite Tiger video clips is now the CDR dunk that sat down Kevin Love and got Joey Dorsey finger-pointing. Check it out at You Got Dunked On.
I'm baaaaaccccckkkkkk!
Wow, it's been over a month since my last post. I just sort of figured no one was reading, so why bother writing? However, a few people have asked me about this blog in the last couple of weeks, so maybe I pulled the plug too soon. I'm going to give this another shot. Feel free to comment or email me (allthingsmemphis@yahoo.com) if there's something you'd like to say.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Grim Day In Memphis
It’s a sad day in Memphis in light of last night’s grisly discovery of six people dead in a Binghampton home. While relatively little is known about the victims, apparently two of the dead are children under the age of five. Three more children were critically injured and are now fighting for their lives at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center.
Unfortunately, rumors are already starting to circulate about the victims and the nature of the crime. Speculation is somewhat natural in such a tragic situation, but the internet allows innuendo to gain a life of its own.
Let’s wait for the police and legitimate media to give us more information instead of making assumptions. The families of the victims have enough grief to deal with and shouldn’t be subjected to rumors about loved ones they just lost. And regardless of what the investigation turns up, please keep in mind that five innocent children have been killed or seriously injured in this case.
Nothing is more heartbreaking or senseless than the murder of a child.
Unfortunately, rumors are already starting to circulate about the victims and the nature of the crime. Speculation is somewhat natural in such a tragic situation, but the internet allows innuendo to gain a life of its own.
Let’s wait for the police and legitimate media to give us more information instead of making assumptions. The families of the victims have enough grief to deal with and shouldn’t be subjected to rumors about loved ones they just lost. And regardless of what the investigation turns up, please keep in mind that five innocent children have been killed or seriously injured in this case.
Nothing is more heartbreaking or senseless than the murder of a child.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Panhandling and Memphis
The issue of panhandling in Memphis is receiving much media attention lately. The Center City Commission recently began a campaign to discourage people from giving money to panhandlers, warning that “handouts do not help the needy.”
Many downtown residents have come out strongly in favor of the campaign, saying that many of those panhandling are not homeless but have found a lucrative way to make easy money. They also say that the panhandlers are often aggressive, potentially violent and downright scary. Both Smart City Memphis and downtown resident Paul Ryburn have taken up the issue, and Street-people.com offers a humorous look at panhandling.
Others understandably worry that we could be criminalizing the homeless and instead urge compassion toward the panhandlers, advocating that money be spent toward mental health and housing programs to help those in need.
Commercial Appeal fashion editor Barbara Bradley recently wrote an opinion column on the issue, saying beggars are a blight for downtown.
The CA’s Hot Button focused on the issue yesterday, asking readers to weigh in on the subject.
I don’t live in downtown Memphis and I’m not a tourist, so my firsthand knowledge of panhandling in Memphis is scarce. I avoid driving during rush hour and am rarely downtown during normal working hours. When I do visit downtown—usually for sporting events, theater or dining on weekends--I rarely if ever see people panhandling for money. My personal experience might lead me to believe that the problem is overblown.
However, after reading firsthand accounts from many downtown residents and workers and realizing how strongly they feel about the issue, I’m inclined to believe that this is a serious problem. I also believe that a team approach with many local agencies working together to identify and solve the root causes of homelessness, all of Memphis will benefit.
Many downtown residents have come out strongly in favor of the campaign, saying that many of those panhandling are not homeless but have found a lucrative way to make easy money. They also say that the panhandlers are often aggressive, potentially violent and downright scary. Both Smart City Memphis and downtown resident Paul Ryburn have taken up the issue, and Street-people.com offers a humorous look at panhandling.
Others understandably worry that we could be criminalizing the homeless and instead urge compassion toward the panhandlers, advocating that money be spent toward mental health and housing programs to help those in need.
Commercial Appeal fashion editor Barbara Bradley recently wrote an opinion column on the issue, saying beggars are a blight for downtown.
The CA’s Hot Button focused on the issue yesterday, asking readers to weigh in on the subject.
I don’t live in downtown Memphis and I’m not a tourist, so my firsthand knowledge of panhandling in Memphis is scarce. I avoid driving during rush hour and am rarely downtown during normal working hours. When I do visit downtown—usually for sporting events, theater or dining on weekends--I rarely if ever see people panhandling for money. My personal experience might lead me to believe that the problem is overblown.
However, after reading firsthand accounts from many downtown residents and workers and realizing how strongly they feel about the issue, I’m inclined to believe that this is a serious problem. I also believe that a team approach with many local agencies working together to identify and solve the root causes of homelessness, all of Memphis will benefit.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
In like a lamb...
Today is a gorgeous day in Memphis—62 degrees and not a cloud in the sky. Spring is still three weeks away, but one step outdoors will make you believe it’s already here.
Our little family took advantage of the nice weather to spend a little time outside, riding bikes, taking a walk and looking over the yard and garden. Though I'm still very much a novice gardener and our lawn is more weeds than grass, the thought of spring brings fresh hope that we'll finally get it right this year.
I finally convinced my husband to prune our crepe myrtles, and I’m going to start weeding and prepping some beds, but I'll resist the temptation to put in any bedding plants or sow any seeds.
Remember last year’s Easter frost? I put a few begonias in our window boxes mid-March, then I spent Easter weekend covering them up. I was lucky and saved them, but I’m not going to take the chance again this year.
But Tax Day--April 15, the traditional “safe date” to plant after threat of frost--just can’t get here soon enough.
Our little family took advantage of the nice weather to spend a little time outside, riding bikes, taking a walk and looking over the yard and garden. Though I'm still very much a novice gardener and our lawn is more weeds than grass, the thought of spring brings fresh hope that we'll finally get it right this year.
I finally convinced my husband to prune our crepe myrtles, and I’m going to start weeding and prepping some beds, but I'll resist the temptation to put in any bedding plants or sow any seeds.
Remember last year’s Easter frost? I put a few begonias in our window boxes mid-March, then I spent Easter weekend covering them up. I was lucky and saved them, but I’m not going to take the chance again this year.
But Tax Day--April 15, the traditional “safe date” to plant after threat of frost--just can’t get here soon enough.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
A Good Loss?
Like many University of Memphis fans, I’ve been depressed for the last two days. The Tigers’ loss to Tennessee was pretty devastating, and I’ve been unable to read the newspaper or any other recap of the game or watch it again (recorded on our DVR). I can’t really even bring myself to think or talk about it. Right now I’m still in the denial phase, but I’ll hold onto the newspapers and save the game for when I finally reach the acceptance stage.
The one thing I have been able to read regarding the game is a post on The Sport Soup titled, “Is there such a thing as a good loss?”
With the streaks and the undefeated season now a thing of the past, hopefully the team and our fans can now focus on job No. 1—bringing hope a national championship.
Go Tigers Go!
The one thing I have been able to read regarding the game is a post on The Sport Soup titled, “Is there such a thing as a good loss?”
With the streaks and the undefeated season now a thing of the past, hopefully the team and our fans can now focus on job No. 1—bringing hope a national championship.
Go Tigers Go!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
It's finally GAME DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The hours are going by pretty slowly as the city and state eagerly await the 8 p.m. (CST) tip-off between the No. 1 Memphis Tigers and No. 2 Tennessee Vols. I'm just too psyched to write, and there's not really much left to say. Soon it will be time for the players to talk and the fans to listen.
So I am listening--to the Tiger Fight Song, over and over again. Sing it with me:
U of M FIGHT SONG
Go Tigers Go, Go On To Victory
Be A Winner Thru And Thru
Fight Tigers, Fight Cause We're Going All The Way
Fight, Fight For The Blue And Gray And Say
Let's Go Tigers Go, Go On To Victory
See Our Colors Bright And True
It's Fight Now Without A Fear
Fight Now Let's Shout A Cheer
Shout For Dear Memphis U
Go Tigers Go
Go Tigers Go
So I am listening--to the Tiger Fight Song, over and over again. Sing it with me:
U of M FIGHT SONG
Go Tigers Go, Go On To Victory
Be A Winner Thru And Thru
Fight Tigers, Fight Cause We're Going All The Way
Fight, Fight For The Blue And Gray And Say
Let's Go Tigers Go, Go On To Victory
See Our Colors Bright And True
It's Fight Now Without A Fear
Fight Now Let's Shout A Cheer
Shout For Dear Memphis U
Go Tigers Go
Go Tigers Go
Friday, February 22, 2008
Operation: Blue Suede Shoe
Thanks to DD for sending me this story.
Graceland will be bathed in blue this weekend in honor of the Tigers No. 1 ranking. The lighting ceremony takes place tonight at 7, with Priscilla Presley, R.C. Johnson and Pouncer on hand to flip the switch on 150 blue spotlights.
If you can't view it in person, check out the Graceland Cam at elvis.com.
Graceland will be bathed in blue this weekend in honor of the Tigers No. 1 ranking. The lighting ceremony takes place tonight at 7, with Priscilla Presley, R.C. Johnson and Pouncer on hand to flip the switch on 150 blue spotlights.
If you can't view it in person, check out the Graceland Cam at elvis.com.
Got Signs?
I found a great Tiger message board thread on poster/sign ideas for tomorrow’s game.
There are lots of good suggestions for the obligatory ESPN signs. My favorite:
MEMPHIS:
Every
School's
Postseason
Nightmare
Some other good ones:
pEarl
Sweats
Profusely
toNite
WE
Stay
Perfect
ToNight
(This one has probably been used already.)
These are funny but just might not make it onto TV (defeating the purpose).
nilEs
Slaps
Punks in
oraNge
Expect a
Slap from
Pierre
Niles
Other, non-ESPN signs:
U of M: Finishing What the Patriots Started
(I like this reference to an undefeated season, but there’s some debate as to whether this sign might jinx us.)
We Smoke Volunteers, Not Marijuana
(Again, no chance of making it on TV, but funny nonetheless)
Vol. It’s what’s for Dinner.
KICK 'EM IN THE VOLS
We'll Beat the #2 out of you
I’d rather lose ‘em all
Than be a Vol
A couple of other funny sayings I’ve seen elsewhere:
Vols drop from No. 2 in the nation to No. 3 in the state
Tigers: No. 1 in the country
Vols: No. 2 on campus
There are lots of good suggestions for the obligatory ESPN signs. My favorite:
MEMPHIS:
Every
School's
Postseason
Nightmare
Some other good ones:
pEarl
Sweats
Profusely
toNite
WE
Stay
Perfect
ToNight
(This one has probably been used already.)
These are funny but just might not make it onto TV (defeating the purpose).
nilEs
Slaps
Punks in
oraNge
Expect a
Slap from
Pierre
Niles
Other, non-ESPN signs:
U of M: Finishing What the Patriots Started
(I like this reference to an undefeated season, but there’s some debate as to whether this sign might jinx us.)
We Smoke Volunteers, Not Marijuana
(Again, no chance of making it on TV, but funny nonetheless)
Vol. It’s what’s for Dinner.
KICK 'EM IN THE VOLS
We'll Beat the #2 out of you
I’d rather lose ‘em all
Than be a Vol
A couple of other funny sayings I’ve seen elsewhere:
Vols drop from No. 2 in the nation to No. 3 in the state
Tigers: No. 1 in the country
Vols: No. 2 on campus
Vols<Lady Vols
Got any great ideas of your own? Post them on the thread or email them to me at allthingsmemphis@yahoo.com and I’ll post them for you.
GO TIGERS GO!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The latest news on Tigers-Vols
More reading on the UT-Memphis game from around the net.
At Sporting News, Spencer Hall discusses how Cal and Pearl are two very different coaches who’ve achieved similar results.
ESPN.com correctly notes: “…Never has the national spotlight in men's basketball shown on two teams from the state of Tennessee like it will this weekend in Elvis' hometown.
At Sporting News, Spencer Hall discusses how Cal and Pearl are two very different coaches who’ve achieved similar results.
ESPN.com correctly notes: “…Never has the national spotlight in men's basketball shown on two teams from the state of Tennessee like it will this weekend in Elvis' hometown.
At NBCSports.com, Ray Glier says both Memphis and Tennessee are flawed and that other teams in the NCAA tournament field should worry about but not fear facing the Tigers or Vols in the tourney.
Grant Wahl of SportsIllustrated.com says this is by far the biggest game in all of college basketball this season.
In his Dear Gary Mailbag, CBS Sportsline’s Gary Parrish answers three questions about the Tigers and discusses some of the players’ legal woes. Warning: this one won’t make everyone happy.
This story’s a little older, but collegehoops.net named Chris Douglas-Roberts national player of the week for last week.
Grant Wahl of SportsIllustrated.com says this is by far the biggest game in all of college basketball this season.
In his Dear Gary Mailbag, CBS Sportsline’s Gary Parrish answers three questions about the Tigers and discusses some of the players’ legal woes. Warning: this one won’t make everyone happy.
This story’s a little older, but collegehoops.net named Chris Douglas-Roberts national player of the week for last week.
Trash talking can be fun
My husband and I—both U of M grads and devoted Tiger fans—have two cousins who are HUGE Vol fans. Aside from that one significant character flaw, they’re pretty decent guys.
We don’t get to talk to or see our Vol cousins as often as we might like, as neither lives in Memphis and we all have very busy lives. Our fantasy football league helps us all keep in touch during the NFL season, but the rest of the year we typically have to call or email our hopelessly orange cousins a dozen times before getting a response. We know how hectic things are for both of them, so we don’t take it personally.
But this week, hardly a day goes by that we don’t hear from one or the other of them.
One lives in Knoxville (I’ll call him cousin D) and has called three times in the last six days. Cousin D is bubbling over with excitement and can’t resist the chance to do a little good-natured trash talking to his Memphis cousins. We mostly just listen, resisting the urge to boast too much on our undefeated, No. 1 Tigers or to throw the fear of Joey Dorsey into him.
The other one (cousin J) has been working out of state for months and is nearly impossible to get in touch with. Numerous emails I’ve sent him have gone unanswered, even the ones inquiring where I should send his fantasy football winnings. However, I sent out an email a few days ago with the subject line “What do you love about Memphis,” and Cousin J replied immediately.
“I love being big bad and ORANGE and picking on Tiger High.”
Ahhh, it’s so good to hear from those guys. In fact, I wish the Tigers and Vols played more often so we’d REALLY keep in touch.
My husband and I understand their giddiness. No. 2 is the Vols’ highest ranking ever, so Cousins D and J should enjoy it while it lasts. We don’t mind humoring them for three more days.
As for me and my husband, our trash talking can wait until Sunday, but I have no doubt we’ll have to deliver it via voice mail. It might be months before Cousins D and J answer another phone call or email from us.
I sure will miss those guys.
We don’t get to talk to or see our Vol cousins as often as we might like, as neither lives in Memphis and we all have very busy lives. Our fantasy football league helps us all keep in touch during the NFL season, but the rest of the year we typically have to call or email our hopelessly orange cousins a dozen times before getting a response. We know how hectic things are for both of them, so we don’t take it personally.
But this week, hardly a day goes by that we don’t hear from one or the other of them.
One lives in Knoxville (I’ll call him cousin D) and has called three times in the last six days. Cousin D is bubbling over with excitement and can’t resist the chance to do a little good-natured trash talking to his Memphis cousins. We mostly just listen, resisting the urge to boast too much on our undefeated, No. 1 Tigers or to throw the fear of Joey Dorsey into him.
The other one (cousin J) has been working out of state for months and is nearly impossible to get in touch with. Numerous emails I’ve sent him have gone unanswered, even the ones inquiring where I should send his fantasy football winnings. However, I sent out an email a few days ago with the subject line “What do you love about Memphis,” and Cousin J replied immediately.
“I love being big bad and ORANGE and picking on Tiger High.”
Ahhh, it’s so good to hear from those guys. In fact, I wish the Tigers and Vols played more often so we’d REALLY keep in touch.
My husband and I understand their giddiness. No. 2 is the Vols’ highest ranking ever, so Cousins D and J should enjoy it while it lasts. We don’t mind humoring them for three more days.
As for me and my husband, our trash talking can wait until Sunday, but I have no doubt we’ll have to deliver it via voice mail. It might be months before Cousins D and J answer another phone call or email from us.
I sure will miss those guys.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
If you just can't get enough of the Vols-Tigers showdown...
...here are a few stories about Saturday's game. I’m sure there will be MANY more tomorrow after both teams win tonight, putting ALL the focus on this weekend's match-up.
Peyton Manning will be at the game, with tickets provided by John Calipari and the U of M athletic department. If Peyton wears orange, I’ll be forced to root for the Patriots every time they play the Colts from now on.
The Commercial Appeal invites readers to submit jokes about the opposing team/school. Some who commented found the jokes in bad taste, but I kind of liked them. What does that say about me?
USA Today weighs in on the hype and notes that this will be the fifth-ever game between intrastate teams ranked first and second. Cincinnati and Ohio State have played twice while occupying the first two spots, as have (no surprise here) Duke and North Carolina. So Tennessee is only the third state in history to accomplish this feat.
Pat Forde of ESPN pokes a little fun at UAB and calls the Tennessee vs. Memphis “the largest game of the season and the largest game in the history of a football-first state.”
Rivals.com and Gary Parrish of cbssportsline.com name John Calipari and Bruce Pearl candidates for national coach of the year.
AOL Sports lists Chris Douglas Roberts No. 3 in the college hoops starting five. The site notes the CDR-Chris Lofton match-up and invites you to cast a vote on who is playing better lately, CDR or Lofton.
Peyton Manning will be at the game, with tickets provided by John Calipari and the U of M athletic department. If Peyton wears orange, I’ll be forced to root for the Patriots every time they play the Colts from now on.
The Commercial Appeal invites readers to submit jokes about the opposing team/school. Some who commented found the jokes in bad taste, but I kind of liked them. What does that say about me?
USA Today weighs in on the hype and notes that this will be the fifth-ever game between intrastate teams ranked first and second. Cincinnati and Ohio State have played twice while occupying the first two spots, as have (no surprise here) Duke and North Carolina. So Tennessee is only the third state in history to accomplish this feat.
Pat Forde of ESPN pokes a little fun at UAB and calls the Tennessee vs. Memphis “the largest game of the season and the largest game in the history of a football-first state.”
Rivals.com and Gary Parrish of cbssportsline.com name John Calipari and Bruce Pearl candidates for national coach of the year.
AOL Sports lists Chris Douglas Roberts No. 3 in the college hoops starting five. The site notes the CDR-Chris Lofton match-up and invites you to cast a vote on who is playing better lately, CDR or Lofton.
Is there a game tonight?
The No. 1 Memphis Tigers and No. 2 Tennessee Vols each have conference games tonight, but fans of both schools are finding it difficult if not impossible to look ahead to Saturday’s showdown. I venture to guess that today might be the one time True Blue Tiger fans pull for Tennessee (against Auburn) and Big Orange backers root for the Tigers (at Tulane). The Big Game will lose a little of its luster if either team sit atop the polls as a lame duck come Saturday.
Message boards in Memphis and Knoxville are filling up with thoughts, predictions and sheer excitement for the big game. While there is plenty of trash talking on both sides--including a few fans from each school crashing the other’s message boards--for the most part the debate is civil and the giddiness is contagious. There’s also no shortage of state pride.
A sampling from the message board on Go Vols Xtra:
“Regardless of who wins, both teams are going to be high seeds in the tournament and everybody should just sit back and enjoy this one because it's going to be a classic.”
“I can’t wait to see the big orange go into memphis and show everyone that we are for real. memphis is for real and it is time to see who is the best in the volunteer state.”
“Pure shooters don't win pure players do and Memphis may have a couple of more but its close. SInce both play the same style of game it should be a barnburner…. I would like to see this game again in the finals for the championship!! Lets bring the title to the state!!”
Comments posted on The Commercial Appeal.
“Truly, it's not only a great time to be a Tiger fan, but it's a fabulous time to be a TENNESSEEAN! No matter what happens, let's all make it our goal to show the rest of the country that fans in this great state are rabid, passionate, well-informed and MANNERABLE.”
“The college basketball universe revolves around the state of TENNESSEE!!!”
“This is exciting and awesome for both schools and our great state! Two great coaches with two teams loaded with talent!”
Regardless of which team comes out on top this weekend (GO TIGERS GO!), the state of Tennessee is already the big winner.
Message boards in Memphis and Knoxville are filling up with thoughts, predictions and sheer excitement for the big game. While there is plenty of trash talking on both sides--including a few fans from each school crashing the other’s message boards--for the most part the debate is civil and the giddiness is contagious. There’s also no shortage of state pride.
A sampling from the message board on Go Vols Xtra:
“Regardless of who wins, both teams are going to be high seeds in the tournament and everybody should just sit back and enjoy this one because it's going to be a classic.”
“I can’t wait to see the big orange go into memphis and show everyone that we are for real. memphis is for real and it is time to see who is the best in the volunteer state.”
“Pure shooters don't win pure players do and Memphis may have a couple of more but its close. SInce both play the same style of game it should be a barnburner…. I would like to see this game again in the finals for the championship!! Lets bring the title to the state!!”
Comments posted on The Commercial Appeal.
“Truly, it's not only a great time to be a Tiger fan, but it's a fabulous time to be a TENNESSEEAN! No matter what happens, let's all make it our goal to show the rest of the country that fans in this great state are rabid, passionate, well-informed and MANNERABLE.”
“The college basketball universe revolves around the state of TENNESSEE!!!”
“This is exciting and awesome for both schools and our great state! Two great coaches with two teams loaded with talent!”
Regardless of which team comes out on top this weekend (GO TIGERS GO!), the state of Tennessee is already the big winner.
The Brawl in Birmingham
While Memphis fans are outraged and UAB fans are deafeningly quiet on the subject of the “melee” that followed Saturday night’s game, many others found the whole thing humorous. Great photos from The Commercial Appeal’s Mark Weber have shown up all over the internet, providing great blogger fodder.
Here’s the photo that shows a Memphis player with a hand on the face of a UAB fan. The player has been identified by many as Pierre Niles.
Rumors and Rants deemed a photo “one of the greatest action shots of a postgame fracas I've ever seen” and turned it into a “seek and find” game. Rumors and Rants found 60 “angry white guys” in the photo but only two attractive females. This is the funniest blog entry I’ve see in a while.
Charles Rich of AOL Sports Fan Nation says: “The photo also shows that UAB students think that Memphis is spelled ‘Mempis,’ and that flipping off the Tigers players is the best response to losing. Stay classy, Birmingham.” Be sure to read the comments below this blog entry.
At Super, Scintillating and Sarcastic, Memphis was a finalist for the This Week In Chaos Award “Most Narrow Avoidance of Mediocrity That Should Not Be Forgotten But Will Be”- The Tigers did not win the award but made the short list for escaping "Baghdad/UAB….” Browse around this site for a very humorous take on college basketball.
Kentucky Sports Radio advises UAB students “if you are going to make a sign taunting the other team, at least use spell check.”
The Sporting News made it the Photo of the Day with the heading “Memphis’ Pimp Hand is Strong.” Several people have pulled out the Dave Chapelle/Charlie Murphy/Rick James joke “What did the five fingers say to the face? SLAP!”
I can almost always count on Chris Vernon to find the humor in anything, so I was surprised at his serious take on the “fight.” Verno was there in person and says Pierre Niles was “looking for trouble.”
Of course, this whole incident is the butt of so many jokes only because things didn’t escalate further and because no one got hurt.
All’s well that ends well? Hopefully, unless the bad element that also exists among Memphis fans continues the battle when UAB travels to Memphis for the Tigers' season finale March 8.
Here’s the photo that shows a Memphis player with a hand on the face of a UAB fan. The player has been identified by many as Pierre Niles.
Rumors and Rants deemed a photo “one of the greatest action shots of a postgame fracas I've ever seen” and turned it into a “seek and find” game. Rumors and Rants found 60 “angry white guys” in the photo but only two attractive females. This is the funniest blog entry I’ve see in a while.
Charles Rich of AOL Sports Fan Nation says: “The photo also shows that UAB students think that Memphis is spelled ‘Mempis,’ and that flipping off the Tigers players is the best response to losing. Stay classy, Birmingham.” Be sure to read the comments below this blog entry.
At Super, Scintillating and Sarcastic, Memphis was a finalist for the This Week In Chaos Award “Most Narrow Avoidance of Mediocrity That Should Not Be Forgotten But Will Be”- The Tigers did not win the award but made the short list for escaping "Baghdad/UAB….” Browse around this site for a very humorous take on college basketball.
Kentucky Sports Radio advises UAB students “if you are going to make a sign taunting the other team, at least use spell check.”
The Sporting News made it the Photo of the Day with the heading “Memphis’ Pimp Hand is Strong.” Several people have pulled out the Dave Chapelle/Charlie Murphy/Rick James joke “What did the five fingers say to the face? SLAP!”
I can almost always count on Chris Vernon to find the humor in anything, so I was surprised at his serious take on the “fight.” Verno was there in person and says Pierre Niles was “looking for trouble.”
Of course, this whole incident is the butt of so many jokes only because things didn’t escalate further and because no one got hurt.
All’s well that ends well? Hopefully, unless the bad element that also exists among Memphis fans continues the battle when UAB travels to Memphis for the Tigers' season finale March 8.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
When company comes to town
I really enjoy Trip Advisor and encourage you to check it out when planning a vacation. I occasionally contribute there, both on places I've visited and on our own hometown.
Last year, I saw a post from a British man who was planning a trip to Memphis with his wife and 6-year-old daughter. As with many tourists to Memphis, Graceland was the No. 1 destination and they planned to stay near Elvis’ mansion, but many who responded advised him to look elsewhere in town for accommodations. He was also looking for dining and sightseeing ideas. Here is my (lengthy) response advising what I thought he and his family might enjoy in The Bluff City (or you can view the entire thread here).
Looking forward to having you and your family visit our fair city. Of course, no first-time visit to Memphis would be complete without seeing Graceland, but I have to agree that you should stay somewhere besides the Graceland/Whitehaven area. You'll probably only spend about three hours at Graceland, and there's really nothing else in that area of town to see, plus there are very few dining options and the area is not safe after dark (also not overly attractive). If you stay near Graceland, you'll waste much of your short visit en route to some of our other great attractions and restaurants.
Downtown will probably be your best bet for lodging, as you'll spend most of your time there. You'll want to stroll down Beale Street during the day--it's a party scene at night, not ideal for kids. Be sure to visit A. Schwab's dry goods store on Beale for a fun and unique shopping experience. Perhaps go to the Peabody to see the ducks (I believe twice a day they march to the lobby fountain). Peabody Place is a nice shopping excursion and includes a movie theater and several restaurants. The Gibson Guitar factory, Stax Museum and National Civil Rights Museum are all located downtown as well. If you’re into art, take the Main Street trolley to the South Main Arts District.
I recommend the Hampton Inn at Peabody Place. Rooms begin at $90 (USD), it's perfectly situated near the downtown attractions, and there's an indoor pool and a continental breakfast. Though I've never stayed there, I know the location is ideal, it looks very nice from the outside and I see the property has received great reviews on tripadvisor.com
I would begin your visit with a trolley ride on the Riverfront loop to get your bearings and take in much of the downtown view, including the mighty Mississippi. (Make sure to take the trolley marked Riverfront Loop--the other just goes north and south on Main Street). Downtown is bustling with attractions, dining, nice views and fun people watching.
You'll probably also venture away from downtown a few miles east to visit our zoo, which I highly recommend. Be sure to check out the recently opened Northwest Passage exhibit (polar bears and sea lions), the Giant Pandas, Cat Country (lions, tigers, etc.) and Primate Canyon. You could spend several hours here. Also in this area of town is the Children's Museum of Memphis, which your daughter should really enjoy. It’s not really a museum but contains several fun and informative, hands-on exhibits for kids. Note that it is closed on Mondays.
For casual dining, I recommend Huey's downtown (burgers, hot sandwiches, appetizers, soups and salads). It has a kids menu and the little ones enjoy blowing toothpicks into the ceiling. It's always rated as Memphis' best burger. Another good downtown restaurant featuring Southern cuisine is Gus’ Fried Chicken (battered & fried chicken, beans, slaw, etc). The original location in Mason, Tennessee has been written about in numerous travel magazines and guides.
And I really enjoy the Rendezvous for barbecued ribs (I like them dry). Dining there is really a fun experience but not exactly leisurely. If you go there on a busy night (usually weekends), the wait can be an hour or more, but once you’re seated the staff really tries to move you through there quickly. Waiters who have worked there for decades greet you by saying “How many full orders do you want?” Your food might arrive at the table five minutes after you’ve ordered, and you’re usually being pushed out the door within 30 minutes. It’s great if you realize that going in, but I imagine people looking for a more “sophisticated” dining experience are a little put off. Still, the ribs are great, and it’s lots of fun to look at all the memorabilia. I suggest going early to avoid the rush. Also note that the Rendezvous is only open for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays.
Have you visited the official Memphis Convention & Visitor's Bureau web site? It has lots of good information on accommodations, dining and attractions.
Hope you enjoy your visit!
So what would you advise a first-time visitor to Memphis to see and do?
Last year, I saw a post from a British man who was planning a trip to Memphis with his wife and 6-year-old daughter. As with many tourists to Memphis, Graceland was the No. 1 destination and they planned to stay near Elvis’ mansion, but many who responded advised him to look elsewhere in town for accommodations. He was also looking for dining and sightseeing ideas. Here is my (lengthy) response advising what I thought he and his family might enjoy in The Bluff City (or you can view the entire thread here).
Looking forward to having you and your family visit our fair city. Of course, no first-time visit to Memphis would be complete without seeing Graceland, but I have to agree that you should stay somewhere besides the Graceland/Whitehaven area. You'll probably only spend about three hours at Graceland, and there's really nothing else in that area of town to see, plus there are very few dining options and the area is not safe after dark (also not overly attractive). If you stay near Graceland, you'll waste much of your short visit en route to some of our other great attractions and restaurants.
Downtown will probably be your best bet for lodging, as you'll spend most of your time there. You'll want to stroll down Beale Street during the day--it's a party scene at night, not ideal for kids. Be sure to visit A. Schwab's dry goods store on Beale for a fun and unique shopping experience. Perhaps go to the Peabody to see the ducks (I believe twice a day they march to the lobby fountain). Peabody Place is a nice shopping excursion and includes a movie theater and several restaurants. The Gibson Guitar factory, Stax Museum and National Civil Rights Museum are all located downtown as well. If you’re into art, take the Main Street trolley to the South Main Arts District.
I recommend the Hampton Inn at Peabody Place. Rooms begin at $90 (USD), it's perfectly situated near the downtown attractions, and there's an indoor pool and a continental breakfast. Though I've never stayed there, I know the location is ideal, it looks very nice from the outside and I see the property has received great reviews on tripadvisor.com
I would begin your visit with a trolley ride on the Riverfront loop to get your bearings and take in much of the downtown view, including the mighty Mississippi. (Make sure to take the trolley marked Riverfront Loop--the other just goes north and south on Main Street). Downtown is bustling with attractions, dining, nice views and fun people watching.
You'll probably also venture away from downtown a few miles east to visit our zoo, which I highly recommend. Be sure to check out the recently opened Northwest Passage exhibit (polar bears and sea lions), the Giant Pandas, Cat Country (lions, tigers, etc.) and Primate Canyon. You could spend several hours here. Also in this area of town is the Children's Museum of Memphis, which your daughter should really enjoy. It’s not really a museum but contains several fun and informative, hands-on exhibits for kids. Note that it is closed on Mondays.
For casual dining, I recommend Huey's downtown (burgers, hot sandwiches, appetizers, soups and salads). It has a kids menu and the little ones enjoy blowing toothpicks into the ceiling. It's always rated as Memphis' best burger. Another good downtown restaurant featuring Southern cuisine is Gus’ Fried Chicken (battered & fried chicken, beans, slaw, etc). The original location in Mason, Tennessee has been written about in numerous travel magazines and guides.
And I really enjoy the Rendezvous for barbecued ribs (I like them dry). Dining there is really a fun experience but not exactly leisurely. If you go there on a busy night (usually weekends), the wait can be an hour or more, but once you’re seated the staff really tries to move you through there quickly. Waiters who have worked there for decades greet you by saying “How many full orders do you want?” Your food might arrive at the table five minutes after you’ve ordered, and you’re usually being pushed out the door within 30 minutes. It’s great if you realize that going in, but I imagine people looking for a more “sophisticated” dining experience are a little put off. Still, the ribs are great, and it’s lots of fun to look at all the memorabilia. I suggest going early to avoid the rush. Also note that the Rendezvous is only open for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays.
Have you visited the official Memphis Convention & Visitor's Bureau web site? It has lots of good information on accommodations, dining and attractions.
Hope you enjoy your visit!
So what would you advise a first-time visitor to Memphis to see and do?
Monday, February 18, 2008
These are a few of my favorite things...about Memphis
Reading the Commercial Appeal these days is not the most uplifting way to start a morning. We’re hit over the head with stories of crime, corruption, war, death and despair. Many of us understandably long for some good news, about our world and country in general and about our city in particular.
So I’ve been thinking about some of the wonderful and unique things our city has to offer. I’ve temporarily donned my rose-colored glasses to focus on the MANY positive aspects of our hometown, and that’s the theme for this, my first blog entry for All Things Memphis.
Here are a few of my favorite things about the Bluff City, and I invite you to share with me your own tributes to Memphis (and the Mid-South). Although mine is a top-10 list, feel free to write as few or as many local favorites as you’d like. You former or non-Memphians can get on board, too. What do you miss about Memphis, or what do you long to see/hear/do when you visit our fair city?
And the winners are:
1. The Riverfront—I loved going there as a child, and some things never change. I can remember watching Fourth of July Fireworks from Ashburn-Coppock Park, and I spent many a night in my high-school years hanging out there with friends. Today, I love taking the kids on the Riverfront Trolley line, and they’re just as impressed with the view of the Mighty Mississippi as I was. Tom Lee Park is a great place to take a stroll with the family.
2. The Music—The Memphis Sound is difficult if not impossible to describe. Just as Justice Potter Stewart couldn’t precisely define obscenity, I can’t quite place my finger on it, but what I CAN say about the Memphis Sound: “I know it when I hear it.” We’ve got the history--W.C. Handy, Elvis, B.B. King, Beale Street, Stax, Sun, etc.—but our fair city has no shortage of great musicians on the scene today. (I’ll touch more on some of those in a later blog entry.)
3. The Arts—Theater, fine art, classical music, dance, and more. Great venues, talented people and community support make for a vibrant local arts scene. Our local gems include The Orpheum, Germantown Performing Arts Centre, Ballet Memphis, Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis College of Art, Dixon Gallery & Gardens, South Main Historic Arts District (and monthly trolley tour), Playhouse on the Square and many more.
4. University of Memphis Basketball—Tiger fever is running at an all-time high right now, but we’ve also had many great moments over the years. This year’s squad looks poised to give us our third Final Four team in history, joining the guys from 1972-73 and 1984-85. If I were a superstitious person, I would be afraid to predict that we’ll go all the way this year. (Check this blog later for a chance to discuss some favorite all-time players and moments in Tiger basketball history.)
5. The weather—We complain when the temperature dips below 40 degrees or rises above 90, but secretly we know how good we’ve got it here. Memphis has four distinct seasons but relatively nice weather for much of the year, which lends itself well to:
6. Many outdoor festivals—Memphis in May, Cooper-Young, It’s Greek to Me, Arts in the Park, The Pink Palace Crafts Fair, Crawfish Festival, Memphis Italian Fest, Live at the Garden and many others year-round.
7. The people—I’m sure I’ll find some detractors on this one, and there’s no denying the overall decline in manners around this country. However, I maintain that one of the reasons we Memphians complain so loudly when we’re treated rudely is because we’re just not used to it. For the most part, people in this town smile at one another, say “please” and “thank you,” and offer a helping hand to those who need it. Just not when they’re driving.
8. Midtown--It’s diverse, it’s fun, it’s artsy. There’s the Memphis Zoo, Overton Park, Cooper-Young, Overton Square, Brooks Museum of Art, some grand old homes, unique architecture, lots of great restaurants, nightlife galore and a slew of fond memories.
9. The Rendezvous--As casual as this world-famous restaurant is, I still feel like it’s a very special night every time I walk down that alley and catch a whiff of those ribs cooking, then stroll through those double doors and down the steps to give the hostess my name before waiting an hour for a table. It’s always worth it, when about five minutes after inquiring “How many full racks you want?” the waiter sets a plate of mouth-watering dry ribs in front of me. Our city is loaded with great restaurants (another blog entry) and I hesitate to highlight just one, but I’ll always consider The Rendezvous as the consummate Memphis dining experience.
10. Our parks—Recreational opportunities abound in and around Memphis. There are large parks like Shelby Farms, Overton and Audubon, and most Memphians will find a small park within walking distance of home. Whether you’re looking for a playground, walking trail or sports field, you’ll usually find it nearby.
So tell me what you think I left out. It was hard narrowing it down to the top 10, and I might change my mind tomorrow, but it’s a jumping-off point. Thanks!
So I’ve been thinking about some of the wonderful and unique things our city has to offer. I’ve temporarily donned my rose-colored glasses to focus on the MANY positive aspects of our hometown, and that’s the theme for this, my first blog entry for All Things Memphis.
Here are a few of my favorite things about the Bluff City, and I invite you to share with me your own tributes to Memphis (and the Mid-South). Although mine is a top-10 list, feel free to write as few or as many local favorites as you’d like. You former or non-Memphians can get on board, too. What do you miss about Memphis, or what do you long to see/hear/do when you visit our fair city?
And the winners are:
1. The Riverfront—I loved going there as a child, and some things never change. I can remember watching Fourth of July Fireworks from Ashburn-Coppock Park, and I spent many a night in my high-school years hanging out there with friends. Today, I love taking the kids on the Riverfront Trolley line, and they’re just as impressed with the view of the Mighty Mississippi as I was. Tom Lee Park is a great place to take a stroll with the family.
2. The Music—The Memphis Sound is difficult if not impossible to describe. Just as Justice Potter Stewart couldn’t precisely define obscenity, I can’t quite place my finger on it, but what I CAN say about the Memphis Sound: “I know it when I hear it.” We’ve got the history--W.C. Handy, Elvis, B.B. King, Beale Street, Stax, Sun, etc.—but our fair city has no shortage of great musicians on the scene today. (I’ll touch more on some of those in a later blog entry.)
3. The Arts—Theater, fine art, classical music, dance, and more. Great venues, talented people and community support make for a vibrant local arts scene. Our local gems include The Orpheum, Germantown Performing Arts Centre, Ballet Memphis, Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis College of Art, Dixon Gallery & Gardens, South Main Historic Arts District (and monthly trolley tour), Playhouse on the Square and many more.
4. University of Memphis Basketball—Tiger fever is running at an all-time high right now, but we’ve also had many great moments over the years. This year’s squad looks poised to give us our third Final Four team in history, joining the guys from 1972-73 and 1984-85. If I were a superstitious person, I would be afraid to predict that we’ll go all the way this year. (Check this blog later for a chance to discuss some favorite all-time players and moments in Tiger basketball history.)
5. The weather—We complain when the temperature dips below 40 degrees or rises above 90, but secretly we know how good we’ve got it here. Memphis has four distinct seasons but relatively nice weather for much of the year, which lends itself well to:
6. Many outdoor festivals—Memphis in May, Cooper-Young, It’s Greek to Me, Arts in the Park, The Pink Palace Crafts Fair, Crawfish Festival, Memphis Italian Fest, Live at the Garden and many others year-round.
7. The people—I’m sure I’ll find some detractors on this one, and there’s no denying the overall decline in manners around this country. However, I maintain that one of the reasons we Memphians complain so loudly when we’re treated rudely is because we’re just not used to it. For the most part, people in this town smile at one another, say “please” and “thank you,” and offer a helping hand to those who need it. Just not when they’re driving.
8. Midtown--It’s diverse, it’s fun, it’s artsy. There’s the Memphis Zoo, Overton Park, Cooper-Young, Overton Square, Brooks Museum of Art, some grand old homes, unique architecture, lots of great restaurants, nightlife galore and a slew of fond memories.
9. The Rendezvous--As casual as this world-famous restaurant is, I still feel like it’s a very special night every time I walk down that alley and catch a whiff of those ribs cooking, then stroll through those double doors and down the steps to give the hostess my name before waiting an hour for a table. It’s always worth it, when about five minutes after inquiring “How many full racks you want?” the waiter sets a plate of mouth-watering dry ribs in front of me. Our city is loaded with great restaurants (another blog entry) and I hesitate to highlight just one, but I’ll always consider The Rendezvous as the consummate Memphis dining experience.
10. Our parks—Recreational opportunities abound in and around Memphis. There are large parks like Shelby Farms, Overton and Audubon, and most Memphians will find a small park within walking distance of home. Whether you’re looking for a playground, walking trail or sports field, you’ll usually find it nearby.
So tell me what you think I left out. It was hard narrowing it down to the top 10, and I might change my mind tomorrow, but it’s a jumping-off point. Thanks!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
