Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 12/3/2007 - Final

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 12/3/2007 (Final):

1. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
4. Georgia (At Large SEC)
5. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
6. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
7. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
8. Kansas (At Large Big 12)
9. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
10. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
11. Florida (At Large SEC)
12. Arizona State (At Large PAC 10)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Central Florida (CUSA Champion)
15. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)
16. Florida Atlantic (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: Boston College (#12, At Large ACC), Troy (#15, Sunbelt Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), SEC (3), Pac 10 (2), ACC (1), Big 10 (1), Big East (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Florida Atlantic vs (1) Ohio State
(9) USC vs (8) Kansas
(12) Arizona State vs (5) Oklahoma
(13) BYU vs (4) Georgia
(11) Florida vs (6) Hawaii
(14) Central Florida vs (3) Virginia Tech
(10) West Virginia vs (7) Missouri
(15) Central Michigan vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Kansas vs (1) Ohio State
(5) Oklahoma vs (4) Georgia
(6) Hawaii vs (3) Virginia Tech
(7) Missouri vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Georgia vs (1) Ohio State
(3) Virginia Tech vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) Ohio State

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 11/26/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 11/26/2007:

1. Missouri (Big 12 Champion)
2. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
3. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
4. Georgia (At Large SEC)
5. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
6. LSU (SEC Champion)
7. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
8. Oklahoma (At Large Big 12)
9. Kansas (At Large Big 12)
10. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
11. Florida (At Large SEC)
12. Boston College (At Large ACC)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Central Florida (CUSA Champion)
15. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: Arizona State (#6, PAC 10 Champion), Oregon (#11, At Large PAC 10), Boise State (#12, At Large WAC)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), SEC (3), ACC (2), Big 10 (1), Big East (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Pac 10 (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Missouri
(9) Kansas vs (8) Oklahoma
(12) Boston College vs (5) Hawaii
(13) BYU vs (4) Georgia
(11) Florida vs (6) LSU
(14) Central Florida vs (3) Ohio State
(10) USC vs (7) Virginia Tech
(15) Troy vs (2) West Virginia

Round 2
(8) Oklahoma vs (1) Missouri
(5) Hawaii vs (4) Georgia
(6) LSU vs (3) Ohio State
(7) Virginia Tech vs (2) West Virginia

Round 3
(4) Georgia vs (1) Missouri
(3) Ohio State vs (2) West Virginia

Championship Game
(2) West Virginia vs (1) Missouri

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 11/19/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 11/19/2007:

1. LSU (SEC Champion)
2. Kansas (Big 12 Champion)
3. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
4. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
5. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
6. Arizona State (PAC 10 Champion)
7. Georgia (At Large SEC)
8. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
9. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
10. Oklahoma (At Large Big 12)
11. Oregon (At Large PAC 10)
12. Boise State (At Large WAC)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. Central Florida(CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: None

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), WAC (2), ACC (1), Big 10 (1), Big East (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) LSU
(9) Hawaii vs (8) Virginia Tech
(12) Boise State vs (5) Ohio State
(13) BYU vs (4) West Virginia
(11) Oregon vs (6) Arizona State
(14) Troy vs (3) Missouri
(10) Oklahoma vs (7) Georgia
(15) Central Florida vs (2) Kansas

Round 2
(8) Virginia Tech vs (1) LSU
(5) Ohio State vs (4) West Virginia
(6) Arizona State vs (3) Missouri
(7) Georgia vs (2) Kansas

Round 3
(4) West Virginia vs (1) LSU
(3) Missouri vs (2) Kansas

Championship Game
(2) Kansas vs (1) LSU

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 11/12/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 11/12/2007:

1. Oregon (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. Kansas (Big 12 Champion)
4. Oklahoma (At Large Big 12)
5. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
6. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
7. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
8. Arizona State (At Large PAC 10)
9. Georgia (At Large SEC)
10. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
11. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
12. Boise State (At Large WAC)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. Central Florida(CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: Boston College (#8, ACC Champion), East Carolina (#15, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), WAC (2), ACC (1), Big 10 (1), Big East (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Oregon
(9) Georgia vs (8) Arizona State
(12) Boise State vs (5) Missouri
(13) BYU vs (4) Oklahoma
(11) Virginia Tech vs (6) West Virginia
(14) Troy vs (3) Kansas
(10) Hawaii vs (7) Ohio State
(15) Central Florida vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Arizona State vs (1) Oregon
(5) Missouri vs (4) Oklahoma
(6) West Virginia vs (3) Kansas
(7) Ohio State vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Oklahoma vs (1) Oregon
(3) Kansas vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) Oregon

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 11/5/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 11/5/2007:

1. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
2. Oregon (PAC 10 Champion)
3. LSU (SEC Champion)
4. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
5. Kansas (At Large Big 12)
6. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
7. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
8. Boston College (ACC Champion)
9. Arizona State (At Large PAC 10)
10. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
11. Georgia (At Large SEC)
12. Virginia Tech (At Large ACC)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. East Carolina (CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: Southern Miss (#15, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), ACC (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), Big 10 (1), Big 12 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Ohio State
(9) Arizona State vs (8) Boston College
(12) Virginia Tech vs (5) Kansas
(13) BYU vs (4) Oklahoma
(11) Georgia vs (6) Missouri
(14) Troy vs (3) LSU
(10) Hawaii vs (7) West Virginia
(15) East Carolnia vs (2) Oregon

Round 2
(8) Boston College vs (1) Ohio State
(5) Kansas vs (4) Oklahoma
(6) Missouri vs (3) LSU
(7) West Virginia vs (2) Oregon

Round 3
(4) Oklahoma vs (1) Ohio State
(3) LSU vs (2) Oregon

Championship Game
(2) Oregon vs (1) Ohio State

Wine Tasting Benefiting The International Children's Heart Foundation

The 2007 Charity Wine Tasting benefiting the International Children's Heart Foundation will be held November 15th from 6-9pm at The Palm Court at Le Chardonnay. Hosted by John Vego, this event will include a silent auction at 6pm with the tasting beginning at 7pm. The $40 admission price includes wine and appetizers. For more information call, 901-869-4243.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 10/29/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 10/29/2007:

1. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
2. Boston College (ACC Champion)
3. Arizona State (PAC 10 Champion)
4. LSU (SEC Champion)
5. Oregon (At Large PAC 10)
6. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
7. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
8. Kansas (At Large Big 12)
9. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
10. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
11. Georgia (At Large SEC)
12. Virginia Tech (At Large ACC)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: Florida (#8, At Large SEC)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), ACC (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), Big 10 (1), Big 12 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Ohio State
(9) Missouri vs (8) Kansas
(12) Virginia Tech vs (5) Oregon
(13) BYU vs (4) LSU
(11) Georgia vs (6) Oklahoma
(14) Troy vs (3) Arizona State
(10) Hawaii vs (7) West Virginia
(15) Southern Miss vs (2) Boston College

Round 2
(8) Kansas vs (1) Ohio State
(5) Oregon vs (4) LSU
(6) Oklahoma vs (3) Arizona State
(7) West Virginia vs (2) Boston College

Round 3
(4) LSU vs (1) Ohio State
(3) Arizona State vs (2) Boston College

Championship Game
(2) Boston College vs (1) Ohio State

Random Updates

Lots of fun stuff over the past couple of weeks. We checked out the Sky Bar at the Tower Room. It seems like a cool place...good food, decent wine selection and stiff drinks. The bartender mentioned that they get 300-400 people on Thursday nights. We were there for Happy Hour, so we missed the big fun.

Apparently tornado warnings will keep people in their homes and out of bars. Usual Thursday night hot spots were dead including cougar Thursday night favorite Grisanti's.

Speaking of death, we learned that 10-12 vodka tonics mixed with Liquid Zanex shots will do a number on you. Lucky for me, I didn't learn this the hard way. A friend who will remain nameless, paid for it the next day. Watch that first step, its a doosie.

Other randomness...

I can blame my crappy golf outing at Galloway on a sighting of John Calipari (or his twin brother) on a Vespa/motor scooter. This image still haunts me. Get that man a Harley.

All reports have indicated that the River Arts Festival has been a success. Friday night was slow with rain, but the remainder of the weekend has had beautiful weather.

Pearl's Oyster House is still a fun place to hang out, but the food quality hasn't impressed me lately. They really need to work on their consistency.

North Mississippi Allstars - Family Reunion Festival II

The North Mississippi Allstars will headline Family Reunion Festival II on November 23 and 24 at Young Avenue Deli. Special guests include Sons of Mudboy, Amy Lavere, Jim Dickinson and DDT.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 10/22/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 10/22/2007:

1. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
2. Boston College (ACC Champion)
3. LSU (SEC Champion)
4. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
5. Oregon (PAC 10 Champion)
6. Virgina Tech (At Large ACC)
7. Arizona State (At Large PAC 10)
8. Florida (At Large SEC)
9. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
10. Kansas (At Large Big 12)
11. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: South Florida (#2, Big East Champion), Kentucky (#7, At Large SEC), South Carolina (#8, At Large SEC), California (#9, At Large PAC 10), East Carolina (#15, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 12 (3), ACC (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), Big 10 (1), Big 12 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Ohio State
(9) West Virginia vs (8) Florida
(12) Hawaii vs (5) Oregon
(13) BYU vs (4) Oklahoma
(11) Missouri vs (6) Virginia Tech
(14) Troy vs (3) LSU
(10) Kansas vs (7) Arizona State
(15) Southern Miss vs (2) Boston College

Round 2
(8) Florida vs (1) Ohio State
(5) Oregon vs (4) Oklahoma
(6) Virginia Tech vs (3) LSU
(7) Arizona State vs (2) Boston College

Round 3
(4) Oklahoma vs (1) Ohio State
(3) LSU vs (2) Boston College

Championship Game
(2) Boston College vs (1) Ohio State

13th Annual Sip Around The World Wine Tasting

The 13th Annual Sip Around The World Wine Tasting benefiting the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee will be held Friday, November 2 at the Memphis Botanic Garden. In addition to a sampling of wines from Athens Distributors, there will be hors d'oeuvres, music and an auction. Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 the day of the event. For more information, call 901-683-6185.

6th Annual Chicken Tractor Halloween Party

The 6th Annual Chicken Tractor Halloween Party will be held Saturday, October 27 from 8pm to 2am at Newby's. Your $25 admission includes entertainment by Adam Ant Farm and beer is provided. All proceeds go to Porter Leath Children's Center. I've been told that costumes are mandatory and that this is usually a fun time.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 10/15/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 10/15/2007:

1. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
2. Boston College (ACC Champion)
3. South Florida (Big East Champion)
4. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
5. LSU (SEC Champion)
6. Oregon (PAC 10 Champion)
7. Kentucky (At Large SEC)
8. South Carolina (At Large SEC)
9. California (At Large PAC 10)
10. Virginia Tech (At Large ACC)
11. West Virginia (At Large Big East)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
15. East Carolina (CUSA Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: Missouri (#10, At Large Big 12), UTEP (#14, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (3), ACC (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), Big 10 (1), Big 12 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) Ohio State
(9) California vs (8) South Carolina
(12) Hawaii vs (5) LSU
(13) BYU vs (4) Oklahoma
(11) West Virginia vs (6) Oregon
(14) Troy vs (3) South Florida
(10) Virginia Tech vs (7) Kentucky
(15) East Carolina vs (2) Boston College

Round 2
(8) South Carolina vs (1) Ohio State
(5) LSU vs (4) Oklahoma
(6) Oregon vs (3) South Florida
(7) Kentucky vs (2) Boston College

Round 3
(4) Oklahoma vs (1) Ohio State
(3) South Florida vs (2) Boston College

Championship Game
(2) Boston College vs (1) Ohio State

Halloween Is Quickly Approaching

With Halloween only being a few weeks away, local bars are starting to announce their Halloween specials. I was at Big Foot Lodge last night and the cute bartender mentioned that they will have $2 BF Coors Light draught along with other specials on Halloween night. That's right, 34 ounces of Coors Light draught for only 2 bucks (normally $3.99). Sounds like a deal to me!

And don't forget to get a costume. You don't want to be the only one not dressed up.

Downtown Memphis' Court Square Concert Series Continues Tonight

Looking for free music? If so, head Downtown tonight to checkout Aurora at the free Court Square Concert Series. This year's Series will wrap up next Wednesday with a performance by Free World.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 10/8/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 10/8/2007:

1. LSU (SEC Champion)
2. California (PAC 10 Champion)
3. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
4. Boston College (ACC Champion)
5. South Florida (Big East Champion)
6. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
7. South Carolina (At Large SEC)
8. Virginia Tech (At Large ACC)
9. Oregon (At Large PAC 10)
10. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
11. West Virginia (At Large Big East)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. UTEP(CUSA Champion)
15. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)
16. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)

Dropped Out: USC (#1, PAC 10 Champion), Wisconsin (#5, At Large Big 10), Kentucky (#8, At Large SEC), Florida (#9, At Large SEC), Central Florida (#14, CUSA Champion), Ball State (#15, MAC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
ACC (2), Big 12 (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), Big 10 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Central Michigan vs (1) LSU
(9) Oregon vs (8) Virginia Tech
(12) Hawaii vs (5) South Florida
(13) BYU vs (4) Boston College
(11) West Virginia vs (6) Oklahoma
(14) UTEP vs (3) Ohio State
(10) Missouri vs (7) South Carolina
(15) Troy vs (2) California

Round 2
(8) Virginia Tech vs (1) LSU
(5) South Florida vs (4) Boston College
(6) Oklahoma vs (3) Ohio State
(7) South Carolina vs (2) California

Round 3
(4) Boston Colleg vs (1) LSU
(3) Ohio State vs (2) California

Championship Game
(2) California vs (1) LSU

Long Live Heavy Metal at The Metal Museum

Bravo Memphis begins its 2007/2008 season with a visit to the Metal Museum in Downtown Memphis. Join us Thursday, October 4th from 6:00-8:00 pm for a fantastic evening of all things mined, smelted, and smithed.

The museum is the only institution in the Americas dedicated to the conservation and advancement of fine metalwork. Drop your business card in at check-in for a hot little giveaway from the museum. During our visit we'll tour the new Blum Library and see a blacksmithing demonstration from the Metal Museum staff. Metalwork is not just for fences, weathervanes and beds. It can be sculpted into decorative keepsakes and delicate fancies so be sure to visit the gift shop for unique, moderately priced items.

The Pre-Season Membership Discount Rate has been extended through Wednesday, October 3rd! Hurry and take advantage of this offer while it lasts - it's the best deal in town!

Bravo Season memberships will also be available at the door!

California Wine Tasting At Mantia's

Mantia's will host a California wine tasting on Wednesday, October 3 at 6:30pm. In addition to tasting fabulous wines, admission will also get you hors-d'oeuvres specially prepared to complement each wine. Admission is $25 per person and reservations are recommended.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 10/1/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 10/1/2007:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. California (At Large PAC 10)
4. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
5. Wisconsin (At Large Big 10)
6. Boston College (ACC Champion)
7. South Florida (Big East Champion)
8. Kentucky (At Large SEC)
9. Florida (At Large SEC)
10. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
11. Virginia Tech (At Large ACC)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. BYU (MWC Champion)
14. Central Florida (CUSA Champion)
15. Ball State (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: West Virginia (#5, Big East Champion), Texas (#9, Big 12 Champion), Rutgers (#10, At Large Big East), Southern Miss (#13, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (3), ACC (2), Big 10 (2), Pac 10 (2), Big 12 (1), Big East (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Florida vs (8) Kentucky
(12) Hawaii vs (5) Wisconsin
(13) BYU vs (4) Ohio State
(11) Virginia Tech vs (6) Boston College
(14) Central Florida vs (3) California
(10) Oklahoma vs (7) South Florida
(15) Ball State vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Kentucky vs (1) USC
(5) Wisconsin vs (4) Ohio State
(6) Boston College vs (3) California
(7) South Florida vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Ohio State vs (1) USC
(3) California vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

Who is Hannah Montana?

The craze at the office lately has been trying to find tickets to the Hannah Montana concert at the FedEx Forum. Maybe I'm getting old or I'm simply out of touch, but I had to ask "who the heck is Hannah Montana?" I was quickly informed that Hannah is Miley Cyrus, daughter of Mr. Achy Breaky himself Billy Ray. Apparently they have a Saturday morning TV series and the younger Cyrus will showing off her talents on a national tour. I was sort of relieved to hear that this was music related. I was beginning to think my co-workers were obsessed with Joe Montana's kid or, better yet, a new sandwich at Arby's.

Since the tour announcement, shows have been selling out in minutes across the country. And it was no different here in Memphis. Seats are no longer available through the Forum box office or its ticket affiliates, but you can still get Hannah Montana Tickets from Stub Hub.
.

Scary Thought....Halloween Is Fast Approaching

Driving home from work this evening, I passed by Party City near the corner of Poplar and Highland. I glanced up and noticed they were setting up Halloween decorations. Then it hit me, September is almost over and Halloween is right around the corner.

Last year I picked up most of my costume gear at Party City. They had a great selection, but the store was packed. While goofing around tonight, I came across Costume Hub. They have a large selection of costumes and accessories with low shipping costs. I think I'll avoid the crowds this year and get something from these guys. Check them out.

UCP's 22nd Annual Great Chefs' Tasting

The 22nd Annual Great Chefs's Tasing benefiting United Cerebral Palsy will be Tuesday, October 23 at the Pink Palace Museum and Mansion. Enjoy an evening of entertainment and wonderful food from some of Memphis' favorite restaurants. Festivities begin at 6:30pm. For ticket information visit United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/24/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 9/24/2007:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
6. California (At Large Pac 10)
7. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
8. Wisconsin (At Large Big 10)
9. Texas (At Large Big 12)
10. Rutgers (At Large Big East)
11. Boston College (ACC Champion)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
14. BYU (MWC Champion)
15. Ball State (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: Air Force (#13, MWC Champion), Central Michigan(#15, MAC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 10 (2), Big 12 (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2),ACC (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Texas vs (8) Wisconsin
(12) Hawaii vs (5) West Virginia
(13) Southern Miss vs (4) Florida
(11) Boston College vs (6) California
(14) BYU vs (3) Oklahoma
(10) Rutgers vs (7) Ohio State
(15) Ball State vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Wisconsin vs (1) USC
(5) West Virginia vs (4) Florida
(6) California vs (3) Oklahoma
(7) Ohio State vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Florida vs (1) USC
(3) Oklahoma vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

Autumn Wine Dinner at Bari

Bari will host a 4 course wine dinner on Monday, September 24. All courses will be paired with wines from Victor Robilio. This event starts at 6:30 pm and costs $55 per person. Reservations are recommended.

Course info:

1st
Calamari stuffed with bread crumbs, tomato, garlic, parsley, & capers sautéed with aromatics & lemon
Paired with Tenuta di Salviano Orvieto Classico Superiore, D.O.C.

2nd
Mussels, calamari, clams, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, & celery oven roasted with rice and extra virgin olive oil
Paired with Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay

3rd
Black pepper rubbed short rib roast, roasted with onions, portabella, & new potatoes served with a primitivo fortified jus
Paired with Banfi Chianti Classico

4th
Caramel almond cake with amaretto apples & cinnamon gelato
Paired with Rinaldi "Bug Juice" Moscato d'Asti

Memphis Roller Derby Championship - September 22

One of my neighbor's reminded me today that the Memphis Roller Derby Championship is fast approaching. The Women of Mass Destruction will take on the Angels of Death Saturday night at 7pm at FunQuest in Collierville. I've yet to make it to a Memphis Roller Derby event, but I've heard nothing but good things.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/17/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 9/17/2007:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
6. Wisconsin (Big 10 Champion)
7. California (At Large Pac 10)
8. Ohio State (At Large Big 10)
9. Texas (At Large Big 12)
10. Rutgers (At Large Big East)
11. Boston College (ACC Champion)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. Air Force (MWC Champion)
14. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
15. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: Louisville (#8, At Large Big East), Georgia Tech (#11, ACC Champion), TCU (#13, MWC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 10 (2), Big 12 (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2),ACC (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Texas vs (8) Ohio State
(12) Hawaii vs (5) West Virginia
(13) Air Force vs (4) Florida
(11) Boston College vs (6) Wisconsin
(14) Southern Miss vs (3) Oklahoma
(10) Rutgers vs (7) California
(15) Central Michigan vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Ohio State vs (1) USC
(5) West Virginia vs (4) Florida
(6) Wisconsin vs (3) Oklahoma
(7) California vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Florida vs (1) USC
(3) Oklahoma vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

Wine & Food Tasting At Circa - September 19

Circa and John Bragg will host a wine and food tasting on Wednesday, September 19. This event will feature unique wines paired with signature dishes. Admission is $25 and reservations are required.

Chef Prepared Meals Deliverd To Your Door

A friend of mine that just moved to Chicago recently told me about HomeBistro.com. Their menu looks great and it includes low carb and lite options. With everyone having hectic schedules, this seems like a simple way to have a great meal in minutes.

RiverArtsFest To Be Held October 26-28

Per the Memphis Business Journal, the new RiverArts Festival will be held October 26-28 in Downtown Memphis. Announced activities include art exhibits at various galleries, a food court, an arts market and live entertainment. Admission is free. This should be a nice addition to the Downtown arts scene.

New Name In Memphis Arts

The Greater Memphis Arts Council is now ArtsMemphis!

ArtsMemphis will celebrate its new identity with a special celebration on Wednesday, September 12, from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the courtyard between Toyota Plaza and the Toyota Plaza parking garage on S. Third Street. There will be food, fun, give-a-ways and special rebrand announcements from board members and arts groups. If you are Downtown, be sure to stop by this exciting event.

Big College Football Games This Weekend

I'm not talking about Ole Miss vs Vandy. The game of the week will be USC vs Nebraska. This isn't your dad's Nebraska team. They no longer load up and run the option, they now rely more on the passing game. It shouldn't make a difference though, USC should have the all the weapons to handle the Huskers.

Another interesting game this weekend will be Notre Dame against Michigan. This monster match up will definitely have national appeal. Too bad they are both playing for their first win of the season.

Be sure to get your tickets early for both games.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/10/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 9/10/2007:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
6. Wisconsin (Big 10 Champion)
7. California (At Large Pac 10)
8. Louisville (At Large Big East)
9. Texas (At Large Big 12)
10. Ohio State (At Large Big 10)
11. Georgia Tech (ACC Champion)
12. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
13. TCU (MWC Champion)
14. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
15. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: Georgia (#8, At Large SEC), Virginia Tech (#10, ACC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 10 (2), Big 12 (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2),ACC (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Texas vs (8) Louisville
(12) Hawaii vs (5) West Virginia
(13) TCU vs (4) Florida
(11) Georgia Tech vs (6) Wisconsin
(14) Southern Miss vs (3) Oklahoma
(10) Ohio State vs (7) California
(15) Central Michigan vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Louisville vs (1) USC
(5) West Virginia vs (4) Florida
(6) Wisconsin vs (3) Oklahoma
(7) California vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Florida vs (1) USC
(3) Oklahoma vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

A New Way To Get More Out Of Your iPod Or MP3 Player

A friend of mine recently told me about ShrinkMyTunes, a simple software download that significantly reduces the size of MP3 files, allowing you to fit up to 4 times more music on your iPod or MP3 player or mobile phone.

This seems like a smart alternative to buying a new iPod or MP3 with larger storage space. Give it a try.

Oxford's Town BBQ Throwdown - September 28-29

The innagural Oxford's Town BBQ Throwdown will be held on Friday,September 28 and Saturday, September 29 at the Oxford Conference Center in Oxford, Mississippi. A Memphis In May sanctioned event, the BBQ Throwdown will feature professional and amateur cookers competing for over $18,000 in cash and prizes. For those who just want to have a good time, there will be a People's Choice competition, a carnival and live music.

Wine Pick: 2004 Lyeth Meritage

I recently had this award-winning wine while watching a football game. It softened the blow of watching the Colts blow out the Saints.

The 2004 Lyeth Meritage (Sonoma) is a Bourdeaux-style blend consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. This ruby red wine had a fruity aroma and the palate was full of berry and vanilla flavors with a long finish. If you are looking to pair this with food, beef or pork is recommended.

Ask for this wine at your favorite wine retailer.

Cooper Young Festival Saturday, September 15

Looking for some big fun in Midtown Memphis next weekend? If so, be sure to stop by Cooper Young Festival on Saturday, September 15th. Festival goers will enjoy a fun-filled day of the arts, live music and Memphis culture. Admission is free.

College Football Week 2

Another action packed college football Saturday kicks off in minutes. Later this evening, Virginia Tech will take on LSU in Baton Rouge. After a full day of beer and boudin balls, Tiger fans will be at their best. The stout LSU defense and the Tiger Stadium home field advantage will lift the Bayou Bengals over the Hokies 27-17.

In other action today, Memphis showed in improvement in the second half against Mississippi last week, but the Tigers will have their hands full with a confident Arkansas State team. The Indians will edge out a close one 31-28.

Tennessee will rebound and win at home over Southern Miss 31-20.

TCU will give Texas fits, but the Longhorns should take care of business after getting a scare from Arkansas State last week. Texas wins 28-23.

Finally, its Southern Heritage Classic week in Memphis. The SHC will be a competitive game with lots of entertainment in the stands during the game and at half time. After losing to the Fighting Okra of Division II Delta State last week its hard to pick Jackson State to win, but the Sonic Boom will inspire the Tigers to a victory over Tennessee State 17-13.

Bravo Memphis Kickoff Party - Thursday, September 20

Bravo Memphis will kickoff its 2007-2008 season on Thursday, September 20 at the Delta Axis Powerhouse located at 45 G.E. Patterson. Bravo Memphis is a program designed for young professionals to get a sampling of the arts in Memphis. Typical programs include a pre-show cocktail social and networking and exclusive performances from the most talked about cultural organizations in Memphis. Stop by the Delta Axis and learn more about subscription discounts, door prizes and ticket giveaways.

Welcome Back Raiford's?

According to this article from the Memphis Business Journal, Raiford's could be re-opening soon.

Gov't Mule To Play On Gibson Roof Top October 24

Warren Hayes and Gov't Mule will return to Memphis and play on the Gibson Roof Top on Wednesday, October 24. Tickets go on sale Saturday.

Wine Tasting at Mantia's

Mantia's is hosting a wine tasting on Friday, September 7 at 6:30 pm. There will also be hors d'oeuvres to complement each wine.

Tickets are $25/person and seating is limited. Reservations are recommended.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/4/2007

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The playoff field for the week of 9/4/2007:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. Wisconsin (Big 10 Champion)
6. Louisville (At Large Big East)
7. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
8. Georgia (At Large SEC)
9. Texas (At Large Big 12)
10. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
11. California (At Large PAC 10)
12. TCU (MWC Champion)
13. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
14. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
15. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped Out: Michigan (#4, Big 10 Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (3), Big 12 (2), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), ACC (1), Big 10 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Texas vs (8) Georgia
(12) TCU vs (5) Wisconsin
(13) Hawaii vs (4) Florida
(11) California vs (6) Louisville
(14) Southern Miss vs (3) West Virginia
(10) Virginia Tech vs (7) Oklahoma
(15) Central Michigan vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Georgia vs (1) USC
(5) Wisconsin vs (4) Florida
(6) Louisville vs (3) West Virginia
(7) Oklahoma vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Florida vs (1) USC
(3) West Virginia vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

Wilco September 13th at Snowden Grove

Wilco will visit Snowden Grove Amphitheater in Southaven on September 13. Concert Tickets are still available.

Big Fun At The Agricenter

The 2007 Delta Fair & Music Festival kicked off last night at the Agricenter in Memphis. I've never been to this festival, but it looks like a good time. Fair food, games, contests and lots of live music. The music ranges from country artist Mark Chestnutt to High School The Musical and from the Spin Doctors to the legendary Otis Day and the Knights.

The festival ends on September 9.

Don't Miss The Lion King

That's what I've been hearing at work..."Don't miss The Lion King." Apparently the family-friendly stage performance of The Lion King at the Orpheum is a must see. The show will be in town through September 16. Get your tickets now.

2007 College Football Has Finally Arrived

The 2007 major college football season kicked off this week on Thursday night with several televised games, including LSU's 45-0 thumping of the hapless Bulldogs of Mississippi State.

Virginia Tech, America's new favorite team, opens up today at home against East Carolina. This will be the first Hokie football game since last spring's shooting tragedy. ECU will put up a fight, but the far superior and emotionally motivated Hokies will take care of business. Beamer Ball wins big 38-14.

In other action today look for Memphis to edge Mississippi 20-16.

Tennessee-Knoxville will have their hands full today with California. The Bears will squeak by at home 27-24.

And look for the Golden Eagles of Southern Miss to easily handle Tennessee-Martin 35-10.

Tickets are still available for most of these and other big games this season.

Art On Tap - Friday, September 7

Art On Tap, one of the best events in Memphis, is coming up on Friday, September 7 from 6-9pm. Ticket prices vary depending on your membership status at the Dixon Gallery. The cost is worth it when you factor in the all of the great beers you get to sample, the food and the people watching. I encourage everyone to get there early, because this event will be packed.

Wear Your Colors On Friday

With the start of the major college football season this weekend, everyone is encouraged to participate in the third annual National College Colors Day celebration on Friday, August 31, 2007. Per College Colors Day, the oragnization strives to promote higher education through increased awareness and celerates achievements of higher eduction in the United States.

Whether your cheer for Rhodes College, Morehead State or Memphis, be sure to wear your favorite college gear this Friday.

2007 Court Square Concert Series Kicked Off Today

Velvet Revolver & Alice In Chains Coming to Snowden Grove

Concert Announcement: Pnuma Trio at Newby's September 14th

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Pre-Season Playoff Predictions

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions will return for another college football season. Click here to see last season's final predictions.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly on Monday afternoons to show a possible college football playoff format. Similar to the NCAA basketball tournament, 11 conference champions receive automatic bids. 5 additional spots are available for at-large bids.

Round 1 games would be hosted by the higher ranked seeds. Rounds 2 - 4 would incorporate the bowl system with host cities/bowls bidding to host the games. The "Big 4" BCS bowls would be permanent playoff hosts on a round-rotating basis (Championship, semi-finals and 1 round 2 game).

The pre-season playoff field for the 2007 season is:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. LSU (SEC Champion)
3. West Virginia (Big East Champion)
4. Michigan (Big 10 Champion)
5. Texas (Big 12 Champion)
6. Virginia Tech (ACC Champion)
7. Florida (At Large SEC)
8. Wisconsin (At Large Big 10)
9. Louisville (At Large Big East)
10. California (At Large PAC 10)
11. Ohio State (At Large Big 10)
12. TCU (MWC Champion)
13. Hawaii (WAC Champion)
14. Southern Miss (CUSA Champion)
15. Central Michigan (MAC Champion)
16. Troy (Sunbelt Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
Big 10 (3), Big East (2), Pac 10 (2), SEC (2), ACC (1), Big 12 (1), CUSA (1), MAC (1), MWC (1), Sunbelt (1), WAC (1), Independent (0)

Match ups round by round assuming higher seeds win.

Round 1
(16) Troy vs (1) USC
(9) Louisville vs (8) Wisconsin
(12) TCU vs (5) Texas
(13) Hawaii vs (4) Michigan
(11) Ohio State vs (6) Virginia Tech
(14) Southern Miss vs (3) West Virginia
(10) California vs (7) Florida
(15) Central Michigan vs (2) LSU

Round 2
(8) Wisconsin vs (1) USC
(5) Texas vs (4) Michigan
(6) Virginia Tech vs (3) West Virginia
(7) Florida vs (2) LSU

Round 3
(4) Michigan vs (1) USC
(3) West Virginia vs (2) LSU

Championship Game
(2) LSU vs (1) USC

Just In Time For Football Season - National Bourbon Heritage Month

The United States Senate has voted to declare September 2007 as "National Bourbon Heritage Month." The Senate may not do many things right, but this declaration is a much needed boost for bourbon brand awarness.

As regular season football season begins in September remember to have several glasses of your favorite bourbon. ML recommends Maker's Mark and Old Grand Dad.

Hey hosers, its Canada Day

To celebrate Canada Day, the Big Foot Lodge will have $2 Canadian drink specials all day. I've already had the traditional pancake breakfast, so I guess I'll paint my face red and white and head Downtown for some fun. Hopefully the McKenzie brothers will be there.

Big Music Fun In Southaven

Looks like Southaven is going to have a few good concerts this summer. Poison and Ratt seems like a fun throwback show and the White Stripes will be a must see.

Happy Hour At Los Compadres

It appears that Los Compadres is adding a patio to its outside seating. This should fit in perfectly with their new happy hour specials. 2 for 1 domestic beers on Monday/Wednesday and 2 for 1 margaritas on Tuesday/Thursday. I think I'll have to stop by Los Compadres this week.

Flying Fish Lands In Downtown Memphis

The Flying Fish, a causal seafood restaurant, has opened in Downtown Memphis. The menu is loaded with catfish, shrimp, crawfish, oysters and more. The food it pretty good and is reasonably priced. You can also buy buckets of domestic beer for a little over $2 per beer.

I believe they have daily specials, with my favorite being $.25 raw oysters on Sundays.

Check this place out. Its great place to grab a bite to eat and have a beer when you are Downtown.

Memphis International Film Festival March 22 - 25

Memphis' premiere film event will kicks of tomorrow at Malco's Paradiso and Studio on the Square theaters. Along with feature films, The Memphis International Film Festival will also present documentaries, shorts and more.

I've never been to the festival, but I've heard its a good time.

March Madness Is Here, Memphis Tigers Headed To New Orleans

The Memphis Tigers have earned a #2 seed in the NCAA Basketball Championship Tournament. The Tigers open tournament play on March 16 in New Orleans. I encourage Memphis fans to support the Tigers and take the trip to the Crescent City for the food, festivities and one of the best St. Patrick's Day celebrations in America.

Here's how I see the tournament shaking down.

Sweet Sixteen
Florida vs Maryland
Oregon vs Wisconsin
Kansas vs Southern Illinois
Pittsburgh vs UCLA
North Carolina vs Texas
George Washington vs Georgetown
Ohio State vs Virginia
Texas A&M vs Memphis


Elite Eight
Florida vs Wisconsin
Kansas vs Pittsburgh
Texas vs Georgetown
Ohio State vs Memphis

Final Four
Florida vs Kansas
Texas vs Ohio State

Championship
Kansas vs Ohio State

Champion - Kansas

2007 Beale Street Music Festival Lineup Announced

Memphis In May has announced the 2007 Beale Street Music Festival lineup. This year's festival will be held May 4 - May 6, 2007. Visit MemphisInMay.org for more information.

Friday, May 4: The Allman Brothers Band, Three 6 Mafia, Koko Taylor, Gym Class Heroes, Gov’t Mule, Social Distortion, Richard Johnston, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Jerry Lee Lewis, Chevelle, Hubert Sumlin & Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Plain White Ts, The Derek Trucks Band, North Mississippi Allstars, Popa Chubby.

Saturday, May 5: Steely Dan, Godsmack, George Thorogood, Bobby “Blue” Bland, The Bar-Kays, Wolfmother, The Ohio Players, Walter Trout & the Radicals, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Taking Back Sunday, Taj Mahal, Ryan Shaw, Kelley Hunt, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jack’s Mannequin, The John Butler Trio, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Eddie Floyd, Hawthorne Heights, Keller Williams, David “Honeyboy” Edwards, One Less Reason, The Duhks, Daddy Mack Blues Band.

Sunday, May 6: Counting Crows, John Legend, Hinder, Elvin Bishop, Barenaked Ladies, Corinne Bailey Rae, Daughtry, Tab Benoit, Guster, Edwin McCain, Project Pat, Backdoor Slam, Umphrey’s McGee, Ann Peebles, Papa Roach, Watermelon Slim, Billy Lee Riley, Egypt Central, The Lee Boys, James “Super Chikan” Johnson.

Conference USA Basketball Tournament Returns To Memphis This Week

The 2007 C-USA Men's Basketball Championship Presented by Aéropostale will be held at the FedEx Forum beginning Wednesday, March 7. This tournament may be more competitive than most fans think. Memphis has struggled in their last few wins and with a ticket to the NCAA tournament on the line, everyone will bring their A games.
Great seats are still available.

Wednesday, March 7

(7) Rice vs. (10) UTEP Noon

(6) Southern Miss vs. (11) SMU 2:30p

(8) Marshall vs. (9) UAB 6:00p

(5) Tulsa vs. (12) East Carolina 8:30p


Thursday, March 8

(2) UCF vs. Rice/UTEP (CSTV) Noon

(3) Houston vs. No. Southern Miss/SMU (CSTV) 2:30p

(1) Memphis vs. Marshall/UAB (CSTV) 6:00p

(4) Tulane vs. Tulsa/East Carolina (CSTV) 8:30p


Friday, March 9

*Semifinal # 1 (CSTV) 3:30p

*Semifinal # 2 (CSTV) 6:00p


Saturday, March 10

Championship (CBS) 10:35a


*highest remaining seed entering the semifinals will play at 3:30 p.m.

All Times Central

Looking for some family fun this weekend in Memphis

If the weather holds up this weekend, I recommend catching some baseball at the innagural Autozone Classic at Autozone Field in Downtown Memphis. The tournament will be hosted by the Memphis Tigers baseball program. Other teams participating will be Eastern Illinois, Indiana and Northern Iowa. Action begins on Friday and continues through Sunday.

The 15th Annual Porter-Leath Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival

I've been going to this event for a couple of years now. Its always a good time.

Kick off spring with Rajun Cajun on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. One of Memphis' most popular events returns Sunday, April 22nd for the 15th year with something for everyone. The festivities start with 500 pounds of FREE crawfish given away at Noon.

Rajun Cajun is bigger and better than ever featuring 2 stages with Cajun and Zydeco music – the ever popular "Lafayette's Bayou Boys" and "Terry and the Zydeco Bad Boys" straight from Lafayette, Louisiana.

The Gumbo Cooking Contest is sure to be a sellout once again! Over $1,000 in prize money will be awarded.

In addition to over 10,000 pounds of crawfish, the event hosts a variety of food vendors selling food, drinks, art and more!

Zany Cajun contests are back – crawfish races, a crawfish eating contest, crawfish toss and the real crowd pleaser – the crawfish bob.

Join us for food and fun on Wagner Place between Union and Beale St. Admission is free as always, with all proceeds benefiting the 10,000 children and families served by Porter-Leath. No outside beverages or coolers allowed. Sorry, no pets.

Free Family Fun at the Lichterman Nature Center on Saturday, March 10

Memphis' Lichterman Nature Center will host a free family fun day on Saturday, March 10. The day of family-friendly activities includes puppets shows, animals, crafts, nature walks and more.

Sounds like a perfect day for a picnic with family and friends.

1st Wednesdays at the Brooks Museum: Eat, Drink & Be Merry On March 7

The Brooks Museum will continue its 1st Wednesday series on March 7. There will be cocktails, art, music by Lynn Cordona, wine classes and a screening of "EAT," a film that follows the lives of three Memphis restaurant employees.

The fun begins at 6 p.m. Admission is free for Brooks Museum members and $6 for non-members.

1st Wednesdays at the Brooks are usually a good time. This will be a good way to kick off the spring season.

Farewell To Sleep Out Louie's

For those of you that are going to Downtown Memphis tonight, be sure stop by Sleep Out Louie's. They are closing their doors after years of serving Downtown employees and residents food and adult beverages. A steakhouse is rumored to be the next operator in the Sleep Out Louie's location.

Technorati Test

Technorati Profile

Memphis Bourbon Tasting

On Thursday March 1, the Brooks Museum will host a Buffalo Trace bourbon tasting. There will be discussions on milling, mash and aging and a menu created for the occasion. The tasting starts at 6 p.m. and tickets are $100.

Beale Street Zydeco Festival - February 23 & 24

The 18th Annual Beale Street Zydeco Festival will be held on February 23 & 24 in Downtown Memphis. Zydeco artists will perform at several Beale Street clubs including Pat O'Brien's, B.B. King's, and the Blues Hall. Wristbands that will get you entry into all of the participating clubs will be available each night for purchase. Festivities begin each night at 5pm and go until 5am.

Concert Announcement: Lucinda Williams - April 23

Lucinda Williams will visit Memphis on April 23. She will be playing at the Rose Theater on the University of Memphis campus. Tickets go on sale February 21. I'm sure the tickets will sell fast, so try and buy them early.

New Airline Coming To Memphis

Frontier Airlines announced this week that they would start to bring daily flights in and out of Memphis International Airport beginning in May. There will be non-stop flights to and from Denver, Las Vegas and Orlando. Denver serves as Frontier's hub, so there is a possibility a traveler can connect to other Frontier destinations in the Mile High City.

This is great news for Memphis travelers. Frontier pricing should be competitive with (if not cheaper than) Northwest Airlines and other Memphis carriers. Hopefully this will open the doors to other airlines like Southwest and JetBlue at Memphis International.

Classic 90's Bands Frequenting Tunica Casinos

If you are looking for a 90's rock band fix, your search may be over. The Horseshoe Casino and Hotel in Robinsonville (Tunica) has started booking 90's bands such as Better Than Ezra, Cowboy Mouth, Soul Asylum and Big Head Todd and the Monsters. The only band thye are missing is the Gin Blossoms. Oh wait, they will be there too.

All are great choices. The only bad thing is that most of the shows are week nights, so its not easy for working people to make the show and go to work the next day. Hopefully they will adjust schedules and start booking weekend shows.

Side note: Kenny Rogers will be at the Horseshoe on St. Patrick's Day. You gotta love the Gambler!

Artini Party New Date Announced

Young At Art's Artini Party has been rescheduled for Friday, March 2, 2007 from 7p - 10p. The even will be held at the Dixon Gallery and will have a silent auction and music by Charlie Wood. For more information visit www.dixon.org.

Are you ready for some baseball?

Now that football season is overall, I can starting focusing on my second favorite college sport...baseball. Southern Miss kicks off its season this weekend with the Coca-Cola Classic at Peter Taylor Park in Hattiesburg. Unfortunately, Hattiesburg is a little more than five hours away, so I won't be able catch many games. USM will make a visit to Memphis in late March to play against the Memphis Tigers in a Conference USA match up, so I'll get to watch at least 3 games.

Southern Miss should have a solid club that should compete for the conference championship and make its 5th straight post season appearance. Rice is the team to beat this season in C-USA, but Tulane, East Carolina and USM should give the Owls a run for their money.

The Memphis Tigers club should turn a few heads this season with a much improved team. Their schedule has several great games in the upcoming months, including games with BYU, Missouri, Mississippi, Mississippi State and USM. Tickets are very reasonably priced and games are family friendly. I can't wait until the season starts locally next week.

Raffe's Beer Garden - Memphis, TN

If you haven't had the opportunity, I recommend stopping by Raffe's Beer Garden. Beer drinkers will enjoy Raffe's selection of over 100 beers from all over the world.

Raffe's also has a reasonably priced Mediterranean inspired menu, with options like gyros, baba gnush and stuffed grape leaves (a Memphis Lagniappe Favorite).

Something else beer lovers will like is the Monday through Friday 2 for $2.50 domestic beer happy hour special from 4 to 6 pm.

Weekend: Midtown, Downtown, Sunday Couch Living

The title of this post is almost a perfect summary of my weekend. Friday night started out immediately after work at the Brookhaven Pub. After downing a couple of beers, we headed to Soul Fish Cafe in the Cooper-Young area for dinner.

Soul Fish was pretty crowded when we got there and we had to wait 20 minutes for a table. The crowd was a good mix of couples, groups of friends and families. Catfish platters were the poplar choice of the evening at the house, but as usual I had to break the norm. I had the Cuban sandwich. A good choice indeed.

After Soul Fish we went to Cafe Ole for more cocktails. The conversation and service were both excellent, but the so-called "top shelf" margaritas were far from good. They tasted like pure margarita mix with no alochol. This reminded me that I need to spend more time at Los Compadres and El Mezcal.

I was home and in bed by 11pm, knowing that Saturday had the potential to be long day.

Saturday started early at the Creepy Old Man's house for Mimmosas. I think everyone had two generous servings before heading Downtown for the Memphis Tigers basketball game. I'm sort of ashamed to admit that I had a pretty good buzz going on the cab ride down. We watched the game from the comfort of luxury suite and had a few beers each during the game. Do you see a theme here?

After the game, our group went from 5 people to more than 10 at Silky O'Sullivans. The bender of a day took its first big step when we decided to order a Diver Bucket in addition to our normal beverages. There's nothing like knocking back a Diver before 2pm.

After a few rounds, we decided to hit Beale Street and catch some of the acts in town for the International Blues Festival. We went to the Blues Hall where a good band was playing. Everyone had a good time, especially the Creepy Old Man while he was dancing on stage with a couple of the female singers. It was only 3pm and drunken stage dancing was already in the mix.

B.B. King's was next on the list for a late lunch. I recommend the ribs. Drunk or sober, they were pretty damn good. NL hinted at going home after we ate, but I would have nothing of it. I should have listened to NL.

Around 6pm, someone had the wonderful idea of going to Coyote Ugly. I figured what the heck, one more drink and I'll be done. Too many drinks, female friends dancing on the bar, friends getting spanked by bartenders and three hours later I was ready to go home. I was worn out and ready for bed.

Needless to say, I didn't feel so good on Sunday. My Superbowl was spent on the couch with food from Whole Hog Cafe. Yet another place for great ribs.

Congrats go out to the Tony Dungy and the Colts for taking care of the Bears. Peyton Manning had a good game, but I think the MVP award should been shared with Dominic Rhodes for his solid rushing peformance.

The highly anticipated ads weren't that special this year. Nothing really stood out to me. For $2.6 million a spot, I was expecting a lot more. Side note - It was good to see Coca-Cola make a return to the big game.

This will be a good week to lay off the sauce.

Young At Art's Artini Party Has Been Postponed

It will be rescheduled for a later date.

My liver just breathed a sigh of relief.

Weekend Activities: Cocktails, Sports and More Cocktails

This week has liver damaging potential written all over it. The festivities will begin Friday night at Young At Art’s Artini party at the Dixon Gallery. There is also a possibility that we may go to Wild Bill’s for a little juke joint fun and 40 ounce consumption.

Its looking like Saturday will begin early with pre-game Bloodies and Mimosas before heading to the FedEx Forum for the 11 am tip off of the Conference USA battle between the Memphis Tigers and the SMU Mustangs. We will be watching the game from our corporate suite, so there should be plenty of food and adult beverages. After the game, the plan is to hit several Downtown watering holes and play the rest of the day by ear.

For those that are interested, there will be a beer tasting at Raffe’s Beer Garden on Saturday night. Tickets are $25 and there is supposed to be entertainment provided by a local belly dancing troupe.

Sunday should be a low-key day, although the Superbowl could quickly change the plans. A lazy evening at home, catered with pork shoulder and ribs from Whole Hog Café should make perfect end to the weekend.

I’m rooting for the Colts to win the big game. Since I’m a “mush” the Bears will probably edge out the win 27 – 24.

Happy Hour Wednesday at Cozymel's in East Memphis

The Memphis Happy Hour Club is looking to meet up tomorrow at Cozymel's in East Memphis. This a group of young professionals that is looking to have a monthly happy hour just to blow off steam and what not. The happy hour locations will vary from month to month.

No Superbowl For The Saints, Peyton Gets The Big Win

Looks like I was wrong about the Saints today. The Bears played a great game. Major props need to go to Sean Payton, the Saints and all of their loyal fans. It was a tremendous season that re-instilled a sense of pride in the New Orleans community. Off-season priorities for the Saints should address needs at cornerback and linebacker via the draft or free agency.

Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts will represent the AFC in the Superbowl. The Colts had an incredible second half scoring 30 plus points and beating the Patriots.

I'm going to give the early edge to the Colts in the Superbowl. It will be a classic battle of the Colts spread offense against the Bears tenacious defensive. The Colts will make more big plays and edge out the win. If Rex Grossman plays a solid game, the outcome could favor the Bears.

Restaurant Commentary: Firebirds Rocky Mountain Grill - Collierville, TN

Friday night we ventured out of our comfort zone and went to Collierville to eat at Firebirds Rocky Mountain Grill. I usually wouldn't go that far away for a meal, but we had gift certificates to the restaurant.

We arrived around 7pm and were told that we would have an hour wait before we would be seated. At any other location I would have walked away, but the restaurant is located in the Avenue Carriage Crossing outdoor mall. We killed time browsing at stores like World Market and Barnes and Noble.

Firebirds is known for their steaks and prime rib, but neither of us went that route. For starters we had the Lobster Queso dip. The Lobster Queso was blend of cheese, spinach (more cheese than spinach) and lobster. It was served with tortilla chips.
NL had the half smoked chicken. I had a small taste and was impressed with the flavor of the bird. I had the Buffalo Meatloaf. I'm not a fan of meatloaf, but this was really good. It was light and packed with flavor. It was served with mashed potatoes and a mushroom gravy. Portions were plentiful and made great leftovers the next day.

If you go to Firebirds, I recommend the house wine. Firebirds Red is a bordeaux style proprietary blend (bottled by Girard Winery) and for $36 a bottle its a great value.

It's Championship Sunday

I still find it hard to believe that the New Orleans Saints are in the NFC Championship game today. I've been a die-hard Saints fan for my entire life (my family has had season tickets since the franchise came into existence in the 60's) and they have consistently been a bad program. The combination of Brees, McAllister, Bush and Coulston should give the Bears fits today. The Saints biggest enemy will be the winter conditions at Soldier field. Most analysts are picking the Saints to win. I'm going with the experts on this one, but the score will be much closer than expected. Saints 24 Bears 20

I'm also pulling for the Colts today. Colts 31 Patriots 21

Greater Memphis Arts Council’s Bravo Memphis Celebrates Twilight with Tennessee

Playhouse on the Square proudly presents Tennessee Williams’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

MEMPHIS-January 10, 2007 - Bravo Memphis, The Greater Memphis Arts Council’s young professional organization, continues its 2006-7 season on Thursday, January 25 at Playhouse on the Square with Tennessee Williams’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Young professionals age 21 to 40 will have the opportunity to attend a special reception and dress rehearsal preview of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof before the show opens to the public.

FAST FACTS
What: Bravo Memphis’s “Twilight with Tennessee” at Playhouse on the Square featuring Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
When: Thursday, January 25, Reception begins at 6:00 pm
Where: Playhouse on the Square, Memphis
For What Group: Young professionals, 21 to 40.
Entry Fee: Free to members, $20 to non-members
Sponsored By: Bancorp South, Bach’s Lunch, and Michelob Ultra
Giveaway: Sign up to win a gift certificate from Barnes & Noble/Bookstar.

Bravo’s evening at Playhouse on the Square will begin with an opening reception at 6:00 pm featuring hors d’oeuvres from Bach’s Lunch and cocktails. Attendance is free for members and $20 for non-members. All attendees will have an opportunity to sign up to win a gift certificate from Barnes & Noble/Bookstar.

Memberships will be available to all non-members at the sign-in table at the reception. Memberships will cover the ticket price to the remaining arts events this season, plus complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at a social hour before each event. Members also have the chance to meet the leaders and performers at local arts organizations and get a “backstage talk” before every event.

Visit www.memphisartscouncil.org (click on the Bravo Memphis box) for more info.

The new Young At Art at the Dixon

Mark your calendars and call your friends! Young At Art is throwing their biggest party of the year on Friday, February 2, 2007.

There will be cocktails, music by Charlie Wood, a silent auction and more.

Wilco's Jeff Tweedy Coming to Germantown - January 16

A little something for Memphis Area Trekies and RPG fanatics

I was informed today that ShadowCon XI will be held in Memphis this weekend. This should bring a costumed crowd to the Holiday Inn on Mt. Moriah. Unfortunately for ShadowCon attendees, adult entertainment is no longer just a few steps away.

It might be worth it to go to Hooter's on Mt. Moriah during or after the event. Imagine the people watching with attractive Hooter's girls mingling with your favorite Star Wars character.

Check out ShadowCon's website for more information.