Random Stuff

Dan McGuiness has closed its Downtown Memphis location. Rumors have been floating around for over a year that the owner is trying to open a similar concept in the Midtown spot that used to be the home of Melo’s. It would be a great addition, but I think there would be a struggle to obtain the necessary permits to operate the business. The big issue will be parking. The Blue Monkey, Molly’s and Umai already struggle to satisfy the parking needs of their patrons. An additional bar/restaurant will make things a little tight in the area.

Next week, both the United States (July 4) and Canada (July 1) will celebrate Independence Day. Local Canadian-themed eatery Big Foot Lodge will help kick-off “Independence Week” on Sunday with $3 – 34 ounce Molson draught beer and $3 Canadian whiskey beverages.

The 2008 NBA Draft is this week. I don't claim to be a pro basketball expert, but the Grizzlies should try and trade the #5 selection packaged with Brian Cardinal (and his outrageous salary) to the highest bidder, but I’m sure this won’t happen. Barring any trades, the Grizzlies are expected to take UCLA’s Kevin Love with the 5th overall pick. They should probably take a guard with the 28Th pick, but I’m thinking they will take JJ Hickson from North Carolina State. Look for 3 former Memphis Tigers to be selected as well. A few mock draft sites are predicting that Derrick Rose will go to Chicago with the first overall pick, CDR #27 to New Orleans and Joey Dorsey in the second round to Sacramento.

Speaking of Tiger basketball, I was reading a Sports Illustrated article today about recruiting. It mentioned that John Calipari has set up a paid internship program with FedEx and that 25 Memphis Tiger basketball players have taken advantage of this opportunity. Is this open to all Memphis students? If so, wonderful. If not, it seems like this would be an NCAA violation. Athletes are not supposed to receive benefits that the average college student is unable to receive. Probably nothing to worry about, but you never know.

For those that care, I’m thinking the Bulldogs take the College World Series in 3 games. Go Fresno State!