Someone mentioned the other day that this is the worst time of year for serious sports fans, because there is no football or basketball to be found on TV. I would agree with this statement. The only sports on TV right now are soccer, golf, auto racing and baseball. Most of these sports are fun to watch in person, but their only use on TV is to help you fall asleep on the couch after a day working in the yard. Other exciting “sporting events” on TV during this time of year include: poker, Scrabble, cheerleading, dancing, karate, and a bevy of other irrelevant events.
For me, this slump actually started in early April as the college basketball season ended and it officially game to an end last week with the completion of the college baseball season. ESPN needs to get on the ball and start televising more college baseball, at least on a regional level. A few select conferences have contracts with regional cable networks like CSS and FSN. I would think that the demand exists, especially in the South, to have at least a game of the week on a broadcast station. This would be no different that the JP/Lincoln financial game of the week during football and basketball seasons. The sponsors are there, they should give it a try. I know I would tune in.
The slump isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It gives me the opportunity to pick up a book or two. I recently completed Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J Dubner. It is a well written book that takes a interesting look at crack gangs, crime, abortion, the Ku Klux Klan, school teachers, real estate agents, baby names and sumo wrestlers. If you are up for a good read, go to your local book store and purchase Freakonomics.
Next on the reading list: The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century by Thomas L. Friedman.
Earlier this week, I popped open a bottle of 2004 Blackstone Sauvignon Blanc. It has a citrus (lemon-lime) flavor with a spicy note on the finish. It wasn’t my favorite, but not bad for $10-$12.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Finally Friday's at the Gibson
The smart thing to do on Friday would have been to stay home and get some rest. Instead, I joined a couple of friends at the first Gibson Rooftop party. The evening started out slow at The Flyer Saucer. I've made a pact with myself that when at the Saucer, I will only drink the fire sale brews. Saving a couple of bucks a drink isn't a bad thing...right?
That being said, I had a few Abita Purple Haze's to start out the evening, then ventured to Beale Street where I proceeded to have a "Big Ass Beer." I hadn't been out on Beale in about a month, so I noticed a few places that hadn't been there. Coyote Ugly has opened near the New Daisy. It looked like a good time, but it was too early in the night to watch the staff dancing on the bar. Plus, I've already been to the Coyote Ugly in New Orleans. I'm sure its the same here. I also noticed the police museum is now a pool hall. Not a surprise...I often wondered how the museum was able to stay open.
After a quick stroll down Beale, we made our way to the Gibson Guitar Factory. It didn't look that busy, but it was still early. We paid the $10 cover and the girl working the door told us we would like it upstairs. A good thing..right? We get to the top and notice that we are one of 20-30 people in attendance. As 2 to 3 people would arrive, 3 to 4 would leave. If there was anything positive about the attendance, it was probably a 2.5:1 female to male ratio. This ratio worked well for my buddies. Being a taken man, I assumed the wing man role to support my friends.
I left disappointed. Sure this was the first event, but this could have been so much better. The entertainment was okay, DJ Tree played some fun tunes, but the lack of attendees kind of ruined the atmosphere. Another thing that was missing was a live band. To me, this was a natural, especially since the event was at the Gibson Guitar Factory.
I blame the lack of attendance on poor marketing. From what I could assertain, the media mix included local print and radio spots on The Buzz. No problems with the print. I question the choice of The Buzz. The station is already partnered with the largest (in attendance) rooftop party in the city at the Peabody. The station has been pushing its listeners to head downtown on Thursday nights for years and the loyal listeners have followed. They have been told that the Peabody rooftop is the best, why should they now go to the Gibson. Word of mouth or viral e-mail campaigns seem to be the next natural fit. Other events may have contributed to poor attendance as well. The market had 2 concerts that night that could have pulled people away, but Beale Street was plenty packed when I headed home.
I'm not writing the Gibson rooftop off. I'm sure they will get better with an improved marketing plan and entertainment. 3-6 Mafia is supposed to be there on July 7 along with the usual entertainment. Maybe they will get smart and book a live band or two, along with the DJ.
That being said, I had a few Abita Purple Haze's to start out the evening, then ventured to Beale Street where I proceeded to have a "Big Ass Beer." I hadn't been out on Beale in about a month, so I noticed a few places that hadn't been there. Coyote Ugly has opened near the New Daisy. It looked like a good time, but it was too early in the night to watch the staff dancing on the bar. Plus, I've already been to the Coyote Ugly in New Orleans. I'm sure its the same here. I also noticed the police museum is now a pool hall. Not a surprise...I often wondered how the museum was able to stay open.
After a quick stroll down Beale, we made our way to the Gibson Guitar Factory. It didn't look that busy, but it was still early. We paid the $10 cover and the girl working the door told us we would like it upstairs. A good thing..right? We get to the top and notice that we are one of 20-30 people in attendance. As 2 to 3 people would arrive, 3 to 4 would leave. If there was anything positive about the attendance, it was probably a 2.5:1 female to male ratio. This ratio worked well for my buddies. Being a taken man, I assumed the wing man role to support my friends.
I left disappointed. Sure this was the first event, but this could have been so much better. The entertainment was okay, DJ Tree played some fun tunes, but the lack of attendees kind of ruined the atmosphere. Another thing that was missing was a live band. To me, this was a natural, especially since the event was at the Gibson Guitar Factory.
I blame the lack of attendance on poor marketing. From what I could assertain, the media mix included local print and radio spots on The Buzz. No problems with the print. I question the choice of The Buzz. The station is already partnered with the largest (in attendance) rooftop party in the city at the Peabody. The station has been pushing its listeners to head downtown on Thursday nights for years and the loyal listeners have followed. They have been told that the Peabody rooftop is the best, why should they now go to the Gibson. Word of mouth or viral e-mail campaigns seem to be the next natural fit. Other events may have contributed to poor attendance as well. The market had 2 concerts that night that could have pulled people away, but Beale Street was plenty packed when I headed home.
I'm not writing the Gibson rooftop off. I'm sure they will get better with an improved marketing plan and entertainment. 3-6 Mafia is supposed to be there on July 7 along with the usual entertainment. Maybe they will get smart and book a live band or two, along with the DJ.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Thursday Night Rooftop Shenanigans
I’m not talking about the Peabody or the Madison Hotel rooftop parties. This gathering took place on the top of No. 10 S. Main to celebrate the new development at The Goodwyn building. To get to the rooftop, we had to go to a quick sales pitch. The pictch was painless and included champagne. For what its worth, the floor plan of the newly renovated building looks very nice. Unfortunately, its out of my price range at the moment. After looking at the pricing and the champagne, we made our way to the upstairs party.
After what NL described as the longest elevator ride of her life, we reached the top of the building where we were greeted by the hot Memphis sun. There’s nothing like being on the roof of a building with temperatures in the mid-90’s. Did I mention there was no shade? There was only one way to combat this problem, hit the free bar. After a couple of glasses of wine, the heat was not a problem. We stayed at the party for a couple of hours enjoying the food catered by McEwan’s and the music of Amy and the Tramps.
With a few drinks in our systems and sleepiness setting in, we had a decision to make…carry the flag or go home? Being the geniuses that we are, we opted to carry the flag and go to Felicia Suzanne’s for one more drink. What’s the old Lay’s potato chip slogan,“Bet you can’t eat just one!”? A drinking version of this slogan could have easily been used at the bar. 3 or 4 beverages later, I was good and buzzed and ready to go home.
Unfortunately, I paid for it today with a nice hang over.
Before I forget, the quote of the night:
Me: "Is this South American wine?"
Bartender at The Goodwyn party: "No sir. It's from Argentina."
A friend just called and convinced me to head over to the Gibson Lounge for a rooftop party. This must be a new endeavor for the folk's at Gibson. If it sucks, there's always the Saucer or the Orchid Club.
After what NL described as the longest elevator ride of her life, we reached the top of the building where we were greeted by the hot Memphis sun. There’s nothing like being on the roof of a building with temperatures in the mid-90’s. Did I mention there was no shade? There was only one way to combat this problem, hit the free bar. After a couple of glasses of wine, the heat was not a problem. We stayed at the party for a couple of hours enjoying the food catered by McEwan’s and the music of Amy and the Tramps.
With a few drinks in our systems and sleepiness setting in, we had a decision to make…carry the flag or go home? Being the geniuses that we are, we opted to carry the flag and go to Felicia Suzanne’s for one more drink. What’s the old Lay’s potato chip slogan,“Bet you can’t eat just one!”? A drinking version of this slogan could have easily been used at the bar. 3 or 4 beverages later, I was good and buzzed and ready to go home.
Unfortunately, I paid for it today with a nice hang over.
Before I forget, the quote of the night:
Me: "Is this South American wine?"
Bartender at The Goodwyn party: "No sir. It's from Argentina."
A friend just called and convinced me to head over to the Gibson Lounge for a rooftop party. This must be a new endeavor for the folk's at Gibson. If it sucks, there's always the Saucer or the Orchid Club.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
A new king in Memphis?
Last night, I joined NL and her dinner group at the Lobster King (on Cleveland near Union in Memphis). The dinner group idea is great. The group director sets up family style dinners at various new restaurants in Greater Memphis. There are usually 20-30 people in attendance and the cost varies (usually between $15 and $20 plus tip).
For $17 a person, Lobster King served us up a feast. I can recall at least nine dishes being served, plus dessert. They started us off slow with a sampler plate of egg rolls, pork, tripe (we think) and a couple of other items. Next came some tasty lettuce wraps. From that point on, I felt like I was at an Asian version of Texas de Brazil. Spicy shrimp, scallops, orange beef, vegetables, fried rice, and spare ribs were all brought out within 5-10 minutes of each other.
Just when we thought we had some time to rest, a large serving of chicken lo mien was brought to the table. It looked and smelled great. Like others at the table, I couldn’t muster the energy to have a large portion so I just had a sample.
Finally, they brought out a interesting version of coconut cake to the table. It was not like your typical slice of flower-based cake. Instead, it was a light and refreshing gelatinous coconut flavored square.
Overall, it was a good experience. We definitely got our money’s worth. If you can look beyond the neighborhood, I suggest stopping in for lunch or dinner.
Remember, this was arranged to be served family style, so we basically had our own buffet at each table. I’m not sure if this is the standard restaurant operation.
For $17 a person, Lobster King served us up a feast. I can recall at least nine dishes being served, plus dessert. They started us off slow with a sampler plate of egg rolls, pork, tripe (we think) and a couple of other items. Next came some tasty lettuce wraps. From that point on, I felt like I was at an Asian version of Texas de Brazil. Spicy shrimp, scallops, orange beef, vegetables, fried rice, and spare ribs were all brought out within 5-10 minutes of each other.
Just when we thought we had some time to rest, a large serving of chicken lo mien was brought to the table. It looked and smelled great. Like others at the table, I couldn’t muster the energy to have a large portion so I just had a sample.
Finally, they brought out a interesting version of coconut cake to the table. It was not like your typical slice of flower-based cake. Instead, it was a light and refreshing gelatinous coconut flavored square.
Overall, it was a good experience. We definitely got our money’s worth. If you can look beyond the neighborhood, I suggest stopping in for lunch or dinner.
Remember, this was arranged to be served family style, so we basically had our own buffet at each table. I’m not sure if this is the standard restaurant operation.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Memphis has returned to the Jungle
After being forced out of the market by CBS Radio's genius plan to change 790 AM from a sports talk format to classic country, Jim Rome has returned to Memphis on ESPN 730. His show will air from 11a-1p.
Kings and Queens
After a fun-filled day at the office, I was able to relax with a bottle of Queen of Hearts Pinot Noir. QOH is a great wine at a very nice price ($10 range). Grab a bottle or two next time you're at your favorite liquor store.
A friend of mine from Pearl River, LA called this evening. He insisted that I checkout the website for the band that is playing at his sister's wedding next year. After checking out The Connection Band site, I'm even contemplating marriage. Who wouldn't want a set list that includes your traditional favorites like "At Last" and "Wonderful Tonight" plus "Shoop" or "Sorry Miss Jackson". I should see if they are available next November for the Southern Miss - Memphis football game. Plan B could be Super Tyrone or Morris Day.
A friend of mine from Pearl River, LA called this evening. He insisted that I checkout the website for the band that is playing at his sister's wedding next year. After checking out The Connection Band site, I'm even contemplating marriage. Who wouldn't want a set list that includes your traditional favorites like "At Last" and "Wonderful Tonight" plus "Shoop" or "Sorry Miss Jackson". I should see if they are available next November for the Southern Miss - Memphis football game. Plan B could be Super Tyrone or Morris Day.
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