As I was walking down the Main Street Mall this morning, I noticed a marker in the shape of a white cross in front of Downtown Walgreens. I went over to investigate.
Shoeshine (I think his real name was Dale) sat on that corner for as long as I’ve been a Downtowner. I never saw him bother people or ask anyone for anything. He just wanted to exist, to wave hello to his Downtown neighbors.
Rest in peace, sir.
NBA trade announcement:
- Brooklyn Nets get Ziaire Williams, 2030 Grizzlies second-round draft pick
- Memphis Grizzlies get Mamadi Diakite. This gets the Grizz $10 million under the luxury tax and $14 million under the first apron. It sets them up to re-sign Luke Kennard.
The CA has recommendations for where to watch the Olympics, and three of their picks are Downtown: Max’s Sports Bar, Loflin Yard, and Green Beetle.
Birdie’s is back open today and through the weekend so you can grab a drink and watch The Open Championship. Their sim-golf experience will be back online soon.
It’s National Daiquiri Day. A Call-a-Cab at Wet Willie’s is the way to celebrate.
It’s also Stick Out Your Tongue Day.
Bud Light has fallen to the third-best-selling beer in America. Mich Ultra climbed to second, and Modelo remains number one.
Bob Newhart has died at 94.
DJ Hush plays Eight & Sand Lounge tonight.
The DM has a preview of Memphis Made’s new taproom in The Edge. It overlooks The Ravine and has 16 beer taps. A game room will have video games and pinball.
The Cossitt Library is closed for the third consecutive day. So I decided to give the Cornelia Crenshaw Library at 531 Vance a try. I walked all the way over there in the sun and heat, only to be told by a maintenance man that Crenshaw is closed too – plumbing issues. So here I am, back at the Flying Saucer, spending money so I can use the Internet and charge my devices.
I seriously doubt I’ll have access to both Wi-Fi and a working power outlet to do a post tomorrow morning. I’ll be back when I get things figured out.
It’s free to read this blog, but I gratefully accept tips!
Venmo: @Paul-Ryburn (8113 if it asks for digits)
Cash App: $PaulRyburn1
Apple Pay: paul.ryburn@gmail.com