Late in the day for my first post… I was away from the computer most of the day. I attended an alumni luncheon at the University of Memphis today. They presented awards to several outstanding alumni, and spoke about new projects in the works. Afterward I walked around the campus awhile.
I’ve got to say, the U of M has really stepped it up. They’re well on their way to becoming a first-class university. The attitude has changed from a decade ago when I got my Master’s degree there and then went on to teach there. Back then, too often the attitude was one of settling for mediocrity due to budget concerns. Now the attitude seems to be, “we’re going to strive for excellence, and if money’s a problem we’re going to go out and create the community partnerships that need to be made in order to take care of it.” It’s turned into a university I’m proud to have graduated from, and it’s certainly grown out of the derisive “Tiger High” label people used to slap on it.
Lots of birthdays this week… first of all, happy birthday to my new BFF Lauren. She celebrates her birthday today, as does my friend Skippy. Yesterday was my friend Mikey’s birthday, and I skipped trivia to attend a surprise party for him and Skippy at Calhoun’s. There was food, music, and of course, beer. Someone gave him a 12-pack of PBR as a present. Now that’s a thoughtful gift. By the end of the evening Mikey was dancing on the bar.
I’m getting my costume ready for Big Foot Lodge’s Halloween party tomorrow night from 9 PM to 3 AM. No disrespect to anyone who works at Big Foot (well, except Meghan – lots of disrespect to her), but the best waitress there tomorrow night will not be a Big Foot employee. $2 Super Cold Coors Light, drink specials, $300 cash prize for first place in the costume contest, cash prizes for second and third also.
Gotta rebuild my server tray, so I’m outta here for now. I have a couple more items, so I may post again later.