Author: paulryburn

The airport is looking for volunteers to participate in an emergency preparedness exercise on Monday, October 27. They need people to play the role of injured airplane passengers as they execute a coordinated response.

Today is National Quesadilla Day.

There’s a Breakfast for the Homeless event in Court Square Saturday from 9 to 1. Volunteers will serve food, hand out essentials, and connect guests with services.

Habitat for Humanity has a huge new project in Uptown. They’re building 52 new homes at the intersection of N. Third and Chelsea. The new homeowners will be able to walk to Chick-fil-A.

Auburn men’s basketball head coach Bruce Pearl stepped down rather suddenly this week. His son will replace him in that role.

NFL fans will have an extra-long day Sunday as Minnesota and Pittsburgh kick off at 8:30 AM Central. The game will be in Dublin, Ireland.

Rowdy and the Strays play Slider Inn Downtown’s big outdoor patio for South Main Trolley Night this Friday.

Bring your own vinyl for the DJ to spin tonight 6-8 at the Moxy Hotel.

Havenhaus will host a dance experience Friday night with DJ Nico, Qemist, Rosamil, and Kenshi. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 18 and up. Havenhaus is at 84 G.E. Patterson next to Earnestine & Hazel’s. 10 PM-2 AM.

Afro Soul Fest comes to Court Square Sunday. Noon to 8. African food, drinks, fashion, dance, and cultural vendors.

Back tomorrow with more news.

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With #VoteForAllison, October 2024

The Memphis Flyer Best of Memphis 2025 poll results are in.

CONGRATULATIONS to #VoteForAllison on second place in Best Server. You deserve it! Allison has changed workplaces since being nominated and is at Earnestine & Hazel’s now. Go see her Thursday from 5 PM-1 AM for Thursday Night Football, karaoke, and a Soul Burger.

Also congratulations to Bardog on Best Bar. Also well deserved!

Today is National Horchata Day. Maciel’s can help you celebrate.

Wear a cow costume to get a free meal at the grand opening of Chick-fil-A Uptown tomorrow.

Three Memphis restaurants made Southern Living’s best BBQ list and two of them are downtown: the Rendezvous and Cozy Corner.

Michelob Ultra has overtaken Modelo as the best selling beer brand in the United States.

Reserve your spot for the Memphis Grizzlies open practice at 1 PM on Saturday, October 4.

Two Southern Heritage Classic week events are coming to the Orpheum: Classic Comedy featuring Bruce Bruce, Sheryl Underwood, Jammin Jay Lamont and Ambrose Jones on Thursday and The Branford Marsalis Quartet’s Belonging Tour on Friday.

Once again staying in tonight to avoid the storms. Back tomorrow with more news.

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GREAT NEWS!!! Chick-fil-A Uptown opens this Thursday. It’ll be at 550 Uptown Street near the intersection of Danny Thomas and N. Parkway. It is locally owned and its hours will be 6 AM to 10 PM Monday-Saturday. Like all Chick-fil-A locations, it won’t be open on Sundays because Jesus.

Let’s have a look at college football games of interest this weekend:

Saturday

• 21 USC at 23 Illinois, 11:00 AM, FOX
• 22 Notre Dame at Arkansas, 11:00 AM, ABC
• Arkansas State at UL-Monroe, 2:00 PM, ESPN+
• 4 LSU at 13 Ole Miss, 2:30 PM, ABC
• Auburn at 9 Texas A&M, 2:30 PM, ESPN
• 15 Tennessee at Mississippi State, 3:15 PM, SEC Network
• Memphis at Florida Atlantic, 6:00 PM, ESPN2
• 6 Oregon at 3 Penn State, 6:30 PM, NBC/Peacock
•  17 Alabama at 5 Georgia, 6:30 PM, ABC

A lot of people thought Memphis would be ranked following Saturday’s 32-31 upset of SEC opponent Arkansas, but they’re not: The Tigers would be number 31 if the AP rankings extended that far.

Good news, though: ESPN FPI favors Memphis in every game this season – even vs. South Florida. The closest matchup sees the Tigers as 61/39 favorites over ECU.

Flamenco dancing comes to the Halloran Centre Thursday night.

Main Street is getting new pole banners.

PodBox, the Memphis podcast festival, returns to the Cossitt Library Saturday and Sunday.

The Downtown Neighborhood Association has its monthly meeting Wednesday 5:30-7:30 on the newly-renovated patio of The Lobbyist in The Chisca on Main. Get the inside scoop from President Jerred and Executive Director Luanne. Free beer and wine for members.

The Archives, the bistro in Hotel Napoleon, is now open for breakfast 6:30-10:30 seven days a week.

I usually stay out on Tuesdays. Not tonight! It’s too likely to storm overnight. I’m gonna pay the Union Mission 6 bucks to stay in. Muchas gracias to the blog reader who Venmo’d me 3 nights’ worth of stays there yesterday. Back tomorrow with more news.

I gratefully accept tips: 
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DJ BLKMR at the Bardog alley party, Sunday, September 21, 2025

Mother Nature cooperated nicely with the organizers of the Bardog alley party yesterday, holding off her first raindrops until seconds after a meatball eating champion was crowned.

The most surprising thing about the alley party was the sale and even the promotion of Red Bull and vodka. Previously Bardog had been well known for not selling the energy drink.

The Hospitality Hub stays open as a warming center on winter nights when the temp outside is predicted to reach freezing or below. They need volunteers on those days to assist with signing guests in and handing out blankets and meals. Interested in helping out? Sign up for a mandatory info session September 25 or October 7.

The Daily Memphis seeks a lead business reporter.

MLGW is hiring a videographer.

A structure may soon arise at the intersection of Poplar and Carroll, one block east of Danny Thomas, on what has been a vacant lot for quite some time. According to a sign on the lot, the developer (St. Jude?) seeks a zoning variance. Although empty, that lot has been useful over the years: It’s a convenient spot across from the Union Mission for groups to set up to feed the hungry.

Joe’s Liquors at Poplar and Belvedere is hiring a retail sales associate.

Why can’t all four clock faces at the Peabody Place trolley stop be set to the same time, and why can’t that time be the CORRECT time? Come on, people, this is not rocket science. it makes Memphis look like a town that can’t get the little things right, and therefore, why would you trust it with the big things?

Today is the first day of fall.

Back tomorrow with a college football preview and more news.

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Q: What do I order at the bar on International Talk Like a Pirate Day?

A: A PB-ARRRRR!

WELCOME to all the Arkansas fans arriving in town for tomorrow’s game! I just had the honor of sitting at the bar with a few of them at Bardog. I’m sorry we won’t be on the same side – I bleed Memphis Tiger blue – but y’all are the best fan base in college sports and I hope you enjoy your time in Memphis.

Raffle tickets for Bardog’s alley party are now available for purchase at the bar. They are one for $2 or three for $5. Keep in mind that you must be present at the drawings, held every half hour during the party, to win. The party is from 11 AM to 7 PM (but the bar opens at 9 AM) Sunday.

I saw them wheeling in cases of PBR cans this morning, a sign they’ll have the world’s best beer on sale outside at the party. Normally Bardog sells PBR in pint glasses.

The DM quoted Mayor Young this morning on the upcoming National Guard deployment to Memphis: They won’t be detaining people; they will simply be additional eyes and ears on the streets to deter crime. That is great news.

Today is Park(ing) Day. Public parking spaces on Peabody Place have been converted to mini-parks. Games, interactive displays, giveaways while supplies last. 11 AM-2 PM.

Choose901 has a list of places you can get work done in Memphis that aren’t the office.

There’s a tequila festival at The Kent tonight.

There’s a 53 hour filmmaking challenge going on in Memphis this weekend.

The original Oktoberfest celebration kicks off this weekend in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.

Weather reports in Memphis were censored during World War II.

Comedian Jo Koy comes to the Orpheum Saturday.

Jeff Hulett will play the front porch of South Point Grocery Saturday from noon to 2.

That’s all for now. Due to Chess Club’s abbreviated hours tomorrow and Bardog’s early opening time Sunday, I probably won’t be back with another post until Monday. If you want one of those PBR cans to be in my hand at the alley party, please drop a little love in one of my virtual tip buckets below.

I gratefully accept tips: 
Venmo: @Paul-Ryburn (8113 if it asks for digits)
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Memphis Chess Club will close Friday at noon and will reopen Saturday at 2 PM.

Renasant Convention Center will hold a free, all-ages Fall Bash this Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Shopping with vendors, concessions, cash bar, 7 bounce houses, face painting, yard games.

There’s a new food truck called Pickeats in Court Square today. They’re known for chicken wings & tenders and banana pudding.

The crazy train will come off the rails when Flying Saucer releases its Oktoberfest stein next Wednesday at 7.

Back tomorrow with a Frupdate.

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Bardog Tavern will be opening early for its 17th anniversary alley party this Sunday. They’ll bust open the doors – well, actually there’s just one door, but you know what I  mean – at NINE A.M. with Emily and Hannah behind the bar. Come hang out in the air conditioning for a couple of hours before you head outside to the alley.

The forecast for Sunday has been revised upward by a few degrees. We’ll start off the day with a low of 72, climbing to a high of 91 under mostly cloudy skies. 20% chance of rain.

A couple of things you’ll want to bring to the alley party

1. Your ID. Bardog usually has third-party security handling access to the alley, so it won’t be a situation where the person at the entrance recognizes you and waves you in, even if you’re a regular. Plus you’ll want to get a wristband if you plan to purchase drinks at the outdoor bars.
2. A credit or debit card. At alley parties, Bardog requires one from everyone who wants to run a tab. Remember, it must be a swipable card – they don’t take tap-to-pay or Apple Pay. Yes, even OG regulars like me have to present a card.

It’s a small world… you know the saxophone player who plays on Downtown streets? He’s a former student of mine – computer literacy class at the U of M, 1996. Real nice guy. He calls me “Teach” and checks to make sure I’m OK whenever he sees me.

Don’t forget that Alley Dayz happens today 5:30-7:30 in Stereo Alley. DJ, Opera Memphis performance, vendors. I’ll be out tonight and I plan to stop by.

A crab legs festival planned for Downtown last weekend didn’t happen. A BBQ vendor who planned to sell at the event says he was not notified of the cancellation and is out more than $1000 as a result.

The Trumpster said yesterday that the National Guard deployment to Memphis will happen in about 4 or 5 weeks, maybe sooner. I bet National Guard will be a popular choice for Halloween costumes in this city this year.

School of Rock is hiring instructors to teach keyboards, drums, bass, guitar, and vocals.

Songwriter Night returns to South Main Sounds this Friday with performances by Mary Hatley and Davis Coen. 7-9 PM.

ESPN FPI has the Memphis Tigers as a 40-60 underdog against Arkansas at the Liberty Bowl Saturday.

Back tomorrow with more news.

I gratefully accept tips: 
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Let’s have a look at college football games this weekend of interest to this blog’s readers:

Saturday

• 17 Texas Tech at 16 Utah, 11:00 AM, FOX
• Arkansas at Memphis, 11:00 AM, ABC
• UAB at 15 Tennessee, 11:45 AM, SEC Network
• 22 Auburn at 11 Oklahoma, 2:30 PM, ABC
• Tulane at 13 Ole Miss, 2:30 PM, ESPN
• Northern Illinois at Mississippi State, 3:15 PM, SEC Network
• Arkansas State at Kennesaw State, 5:00 PM, ESPN+
• Florida at 4 Miami, 6:30 PM, ABC
• 9 Illinois at 19 Indiana, 6:30 PM, NBC

On Monday, the Trumpster announced the creation of the Memphis Safe Task Force. Not only is the National Guard coming here, but also the FBI, DEA, ICE, and the Marshal’s Service. Errrrbody comin to Memphis!

Congratulations to Fat Charlie’s Speakeasy on Harbor Town Square on its recent 100 on its health inspection.

The city wants your feedback on the Riverfront Master Plan. There will be a public input session this Thursday 5:30-7:00 PM at Beale Street Landing.

Friday is Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day at the Redbirds. The first 1500 fans get a green Redbirds jersey. A specialty ticket gets you a buffet of chicken wings and all the trimmings at the Homeplate Club. Kids’ Zone, autograph signing. First pitch vs. the St. Paul Saints is at 7:05.

Then on Saturday, the ‘birds host Grizzlies Day. They’ll wear Grizzlies-themed jerseys. Appearances by basketball personalities. Giveaways. First 5000 fans get a Grizzlies/Redbirds jersey. NOTE THAT THIS IS A DAY GAME – first pitch vs. St. Paul is set for 3:05.

A memorial mural for actor John Amos has been installed at 88 S. Front. Amos, known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the sitcom Good Times, frequently visited Memphis.

The iOS update that gets you Liquid Glass is now available. Compatible with iPhone 11 and later.

Back tomorrow with more news.

I gratefully accept tips: 
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Some additional tidbits that I’ve learned about Bardog Tavern’s 17th anniversary alley party this coming Sunday, September 21 from 11 AM to 7 PM:

• CONFIRMED – The meatball eating contest will be back. Win a prize if you can eat the most of Aldo’s grandma’s balls
• No dunk tank this year though
• 3-7 PM is the expected set time for DJ BLKMR
• Forecast: partly cloudy, 10% chance of rain, high 87, low 67

Escorts in Memphis are growing frustrated with their male clients, who have been showing up for “appointments” not having practiced appropriate hygiene beforehand. The ladies are now stating this requirement IN ALL CAPS when writing their ads.

Many shots were fired in The Pinch Saturday morning in broad daylight. MPD has released a video of the suspects.

WREG talks about what to expect when the Trumpster deploys the National Guard to Memphis. Most notable is that Guard troops could indeed have the power to arrest.

From CNN: What we know about Trump’s push to send in the Guard

Jerry “The King” Lawler suffered a minor stroke, his third, at his condo in Florida recently.

It’s someday.

Lake Street Dive will play the Orpheum Tuesday.

The Magic of Motown comes to the Cannon Center Saturday.

Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Patti Labelle, and Stephanie Mills play 4 Queens 1 Stage at FedExForum Sunday.

Back tomorrow with more news.

I gratefully accept tips: 
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With a few minutes left in last night‘s game, the Tennessee Vols seemed like sure winners, but not surprisingly, they found a way to screw it up. Georgia 44, Tennessee 41 in overtime. I predict losses to Arkansas and Vandy will keep the T out of the CFP.

Former Memphis Tiger Dain Dainja has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Miami Heat, giving him a chance to prove himself in training camp.

Dan Wagner‘s Johnny Cash and Friends tribute show comes to the Orpheum Friday, November 7.

The Redbirds wrap up the regular season this week with a Tuesday-Sunday homestand vs. St. Paul.

The past two Saturdays, I’ve enjoyed hearing Saturday Sunset upstairs at Earnestine & Hazel’s. They’re a husband-and-wife duo with an incredible repertoire of classic rock and reggae songs. Their energy and audience interaction reminds me of my friends Pam & Terry a bit. Catch them upstairs for Trolley Night on September 26.

But that’s not all…there’s a four-piece version of Saturday Sunset and they’ll perform downstairs Saturday, September 27.

From StyleBlueprint: She’s behind the Majestic and Cocozza: Meet Deni Reilly

Back tomorrow with more news.

I gratefully accept tips: 
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