This week I learned something kinda cool about the Memphis Union Mission: When they built their new shelter building, they arranged for hot water pipes to run under the hard floors in common areas.
Why? Because they anticipated overflow conditions, nights on which the new building’s 232 beds would fail to meet demand and mats would have to be laid out on the floor to accommodate the additional guests. Better to lay a mat on a warm floor than a freezing cold one.
Oh also… they just got new mats. The new mats are twice the thickness of the old ones. I slept on a new mat last night and I couldn’t feel the floor under me at all. They really do care about us there.
IT’S TIFFY TIME! If you know, you know. And if you don’t know…
Penny’s Memphis Tigers host North Texas at FedExForum Sunday at 4:00.
The Grizzlies visit Golden State tonight. 7:30 tip. TV: FanDuel Sports
WREG asks whether the currently installed bollards are enough to keep Beale Street secure.
A pop-up concert series could come to Mud Island this spring. Organizers hope to prove the viability of the amphitheater as a concert space.
Today is National Spaghetti Day. Get it with Aldo’s grandma’s meatballs at Bardog.
The Trumpster will be sentenced in his hush money trial Friday, but he need not fear stormy days: No jail time is expected.
Apple TV+ is free this weekend.
Enhanced lighting has been installed around the Orpheum to keep patrons safe.
ESPN’s latest Bracketology projects Penny’s Tigers as a 5 seed in the NCAA tournament.
International Blues Challenge is on Beale Street this coming week. You are not truly a Memphian if you haven’t been to this event at least once.
Thanks to those of you who tipped me on Venmo this week. Because of your generosity, I’m enjoying another chocolate chip brownie at Memphis Chess Club this morning. The cinnamon rolls look good too but I haven’t tried one yet.
Did you know that three-player chess is a thing?
That’s all. Have a good weekend.
It’s free to read this blog, but I gratefully accept tips!
Venmo: @Paul-Ryburn (8113 if it asks for digits)
Cash App: $PaulRyburn1
Zelle: paul@paulryburn.com