Monday update: It’s my birthday week!

So, I’m a bit disappointed this morning.

I have a new “Know When to Hold’em” T-shirt from Ocean City, Maryland. It features a beautiful woman wearing only bikini bottoms, holding two playing cards over her nipples – presumably the Queen and Jack of spades, which would complete a royal flush. I was hoping someone would come up and tell me they were offended by my shirt. I enjoy offending people.

Alas, no one said anything to me about the shirt.

The Daily Memphian has a story (subscribers-only) about the incredibly stupid bill that would ban drag shows and other “adult cabaret” shows in public venues and some private venues. Such performances wouldn’t be allowed in private venues where it would be possible for a minor to view them, either because they’re inside the venue or could see the show through a window.

That means burlesque at the Blind Bear would not be affected if the bill became law. They’re 21 and up after 3 PM (the shows begin at 10:15) and they have a black curtain that blocks the view of the inner entrance.

I worry about the Friday and Saturday night drag shows and the Sunday brunch shows at Atomic Rose and also the new Sunday brunch drag show at Hard Rock Cafe. Those venues have a lot of windows that would need to be covered up.

Let me explain my position on drag shows… on a micro, personal level, I don’t like them. They do nothing for me. Seeing a “show” is not a reason I go to a bar. And I don’t like the expectation to tip for a performance I don’t care about.

Yet, on a macro level, I think drag is beautiful. It’s people expressing themselves to the fullest, and not only being appreciated for it, but making a living from it. What could possibly be wrong with that? That’s what we should all strive to do, each of us in our own way.

I think it’s vitally important that people like me oppose the bill to ban drag shows. Let people be who they want to be and let our children see it.

Not surprisingly, the Grizzlies lost to the Washington Wizards last night with Morant and Bane sidelined. Good news, though… Jaren Jackson Jr. is now practicing with the team and may appear in games as early as this week.

Next up for the Grizzlies: A date with Zion Williamson and the Pelicans Tuesday night at 6:30 in New Orleans. That game will be on TNT.

Today is National Pickle Day. My suggestion to celebrate would be an order of fried pickles from Kooky Canuck. They come with honey mustard for dipping.

Action News 5 has a look at this past weekend’s SneakFest at FedExForum.

Crap, it’s going to rain tonight. MemphisWeather.net gives us an 80% chance. 39 degrees. I hear Axl Rose in my head singing about the cold November rain.

If you take Airways to work, plan an alternate route – it’s closed between South Parkway and Park due to an active scene.

It’s my birthday week! The actual day is Friday but I plan to start celebrating today. Back tomorrow with more news.