RIP Silky, plus Friday news

Today one of the true legends of Downtown Memphis, Silky Sullivan, passed away. Silky was proprietor of Silky O’ Sullivan’s, an anchor of Beale Street for years. Silky loved a good party and knew how to throw one – and he threw one in his bar every night, with dueling pianos, an Irish theme, Diver buckets to drink, and neon palm trees and pet goats in the courtyard.

Silky could frequently be seen holding court on his throne on Beale in front of his bar. In particular, he was known for throwing St. Patrick’s Day extravaganzas, with the blessing of the kegs, the receiving of Irish dignitaries, and the raising of the goat. His courtyard was always packed for St. Pat’s, and in years when the weather was warm you could even spot a few tube tops.

Rest in peace, Silky, and thank you for all you did to make Downtown a fun place to be.

And now, let’s get on to the news…

It’s Trolley Night on South Main Street tonight, as it is the last Friday of every month. Galleries, shops, and restaurants will be open from 6 to 9, and many will have appetizers, wine, beer, discounts, fashion shows. There will be live music by Misty Rae at ArtJamN, and by Kitty Deering at D’Edge. There will be art demos at American Apparel, the Folk Alliance, the fire station lawn, Main at Butler, and Main at Nettleton. The Streetdog Foundation will set up next to Earnestine & Hazel’s with adoptions and merchandise, and the Memphis Roller Derby League will make an appearance. If you’ve never been to a Trolley Night, May is a great month to check it out before the weather gets super hot in the summer.

Ever want to sit on the field and watch a movie at AutoZone Park? You can on June 15. The park will screen The Sandlot at 7:30 that evening. Third-base seats will be available for those who don’t wish to sit on the field. If you sit on the field, you’re encouraged to bring a blanket. There will be a trivia contest with a pair of PF Flyer sneakers as the prize. After the screening, fans will have a chance to meet the writer/director. He will be signing a variety of items with proceeds going to charity.

The Travel Channel’s “Burger Land” visit to Memphis will air Monday at 8 Central time. The show toured Dyer’s and Alex’s, and got local commentary from Best Memphis Burger blogger Seth. Here’s a preview.

Plans for tonight: I’ll probably start out at one of my bars where I’m Foursquare mayor in the Downtown core (I regained the Silly Goose last night). Then about 7:30. I’ll decide whether to stay put or head to South Main. All right, off to do something I haven’t done on a lunch break this week: eat.