Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/22/2008

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly 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).

For the week of September 22, 2008:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
3. Georgia (SEC Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. LSU (At Large SEC)
6. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
7. Texas (At Large Big 12)
8. Wisconsin (Big 10 Champion)
9. Alabama (At Large SEC)
10. BYU (MWC Champion)
11. Wake Forest (ACC Champion)
12. South Florida (Big East Champion)
13. Boise State (WAC Champion)
14. East Carolina (CUSA Champion)
15. Ball State (MAC Champion)
16. Arkansas State (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped out: Auburn (#7, At Large SEC), Ohio State (#10, Big 10 Champion), Florida Atlantic (#16, Sunbelt Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (4), Big 12 (3), ACC (1), 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) Arkansas State at (1) USC
(9) Alabama at (8) Wisconsin
(12) South Florida at (5) LSU
(13) Boise State at (4) Florida
(11) Wake Forest at (6) Missouri
(14) East Carolina at (3) Georgia
(10) BYU at (7) Texas
(15) Ball State at (2) Oklahoma

Round 2
(8) Wisconsin vs (1) USC
(5) LSU vs (4) Florida
(6) Missouri vs (3) Georgia
(7) Texas vs (2) Oklahoma

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

Championship Game
(2) Oklahoma vs (1) USC

Bye Bye Civil Rights Game & Big Football Weekend

I guess I was wrong in thinking the pending sale of the Redbirds to the St. Louis Cardinals would bring better teams to Memphis' Civil Rights baseball game. Major League Baseball announced yesterday that they are moving the game to Cincinnati for the next two years and that the match up will now be a regular season contest. Bottom line...the lack of support that Memphians gives to events like this can almost guarantee that future events will skip over the Bluff City. Who's out next...the Grizzlies?

In addition to all of the “Fire Tommy” chatter in Memphis this week, the talk of the town has been the Tennessee-Florida game. The Vols are still looking to find the chemistry needed to win the game and my hunch is that they will not find it this weekend. Tim Tebow and the Gators will win the game in Knoxville 24–13.

In other football action:

Memphis will earn its first win of the season over Nicholls State 34-17

Mississippi should edge Vandy 27–17

LSU over Auburn in a nail biter 14-13

Southern Miss over Marshall 38-20

Arizona State upsets Georgia 23-20

Denver Broncos over the injury plagued New Orleans Saints 35-24

Memphis Sports Update: New Owners For The Redbirds & Tigers 2008-2009 Basketball Schedule

The Commercial Appeal and Memphis Business Journal are both reporting that the Triple-A Memphis Redbirds are in the process of being sold to the St. Louis Cardinals, their parent club. The change in ownership should be relatively transparent for Redbirds ticket holders and fans. I’m hoping this will lead to more quality exhibition games in addition to the annual Civil Rights game.

A good overall schedule for the Memphis Tigers basketball team. There will be 18 home games this season, including out of conference games with UMASS, Syracuse and Cincinnati . Tickets will be tough to come by, but you can always get them here.

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/15/2008

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly 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).

For the week of September 15, 2008:

1. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
2. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
3. Georgia (SEC Champion)
4. Florida (At Large SEC)
5. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
6. LSU (At Large SEC)
7. Auburn (At Large SEC)
8. Texas (At Large Big 12)
9. BYU (MWC Champion)
10. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
11. Wake Forest (ACC Champion)
12. East Carolina (CUSA Champion)
13. South Florida (Big East Champion)
14. Boise State (WAC Champion)
15. Ball State (MAC Champion)
16. Florida Atlantic (Sunbelt Champion)

Dropped out: Bowling Green (#16, MAC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (4), Big 12 (3), ACC (1), 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) Florida Atlantic at (1) USC
(9) BYU at (8) Texas
(12) East Carolina at (5) Missouri
(13) South Florida at (4) Florida
(11) Wake Forest at (6) LSU
(14) Boise State at (3) Georgia
(10) Ohio State at (7) Auburn
(15) Ball State at (2) Oklahoma

Round 2
(8) Texas vs (1) USC
(5) Missouri vs (4) Florida
(6) LSU vs (3) Georgia
(7) Auburn vs (2) Oklahoma

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

Championship Game
(2) Oklahoma vs (1) USC

Fun stuff today: Cooper-Young, Southern Heritage, Gas Lines and More Football

Lots of fun stuff in Memphis today.

The 21st Cooper-Young Festival gets rocking today from 9a - 7p. This is usually a fun time, with live music, art, food and the eclectic patrons/residents of the Cooper-Young area.

Later this evening, the 19th Southern Heritage Classic will be held at the Liberty Bowl. The game should be interesting, but the half time show featuring the Tennessee State and Jackson State bands will be the highlight. Its hard for me to pick against the Sonic Boom. JSU wins by 11.

Apparently the unplanned thing to do today is wait in line to fill up your car with gas. In Tennessee, price increases ranging from $.20 to $.50 per gallon yesterday have consumers panicking that there will be a shortage on fuel. After Hurricane Katrina, prices only increased $.14 to $.16 per gallon. Local and state officials need to take a closer look at this and make sure consumers aren't getting gouged.

Quick football picks for the weekend:

Mississippi over Samford
Marshall over Memphis
Tennessee over UAB
Arkansas State over Southern Miss
New Orleans Saints over Washington Redskins
Southern Cal over Ohio State

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/8/2008

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly 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).

For the week of September 8, 2008:

1. Oklahoma (Big 12 Champion)
2. Ohio State (Big 10 Champion)
3. Georgia (SEC Champion)
4. USC (PAC 10 Champion)
5. Florida (At Large SEC)
6. Missouri (At Large Big 12)
7. LSU (At Large SEC)
8. Auburn (At Large SEC)
9. Texas (At Large Big 12)
10. BYU (MWC Champion)
11. Wake Forest (ACC Champion)
12. East Carolina (CUSA Champion)
13. South Florida (Big East Champion)
14. Boise State (WAC Champion)
15. Florida Atlantic (Sunbelt Champion)
16. Bowling Green (MAC Champion)

Dropped out: West Virginia (#7, Big East Champion), Central Michigan (#15, MAC Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (4), Big 12 (3), ACC (1), 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) Bowling Green at (1) Oklahoma
(9) Texas at (8) Auburn
(12) East Carolina at (5) Florida
(13) South Florida at (4) USC
(11) Wake Forest at (6) Missouri
(14) Boise State at (3) Georgia
(10) BYU at (7) LSU
(15) Florida Atlantic at (2) Ohio State

Round 2
(8) Auburn vs (1) Oklahoma
(5) Florida vs (4) USC
(6) Missouri vs (3) Georgia
(7) LSU vs (2) Ohio State

Round 3
(4) USC vs (1) Oklahoma
(3) Georgia vs (2) Ohio State

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

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions Week Of 9/1/2008

Memphis Lagniappe's Fabled College Football Playoff Predictions are published weekly 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).

For the week of September 1, 2008:

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

Dropped out: Clemson (#7, ACC Champion), Tulsa (#14, CUSA Champion)

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (4), Big 12 (3), ACC (1), 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) Florida Atlantic at (1) Ohio State
(9) Texas at (8) LSU
(12) Wake Forest at (5) Missouri
(13) East Carolina at (4) USC
(11) BYU at (6) Florida
(14) Boise State at (3) Oklahoma
(10) Auburn at (7) West Virginia
(15) Central Michigan at (2) Georgia

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

Round 3
(4) USC vs (1) Ohio State
(3) Oklahoma vs (2) Georgia

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

Wine Down At The Dixon

Looking for a good way to blow off some steam after work on Friday or maybe a way to get the weekend off to a great start? The Dixon may have what you are looking for. The Dixon will host Wine Down on Friday, August 22from 5:30 to 7:30pm. This wine tasting includes live music and light hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $20 for members and and $25 for non-members.

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. Now it’s third published season, click here to see last season's final mock playoff field.

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 2008 season is:

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

Number Of Teams by Conference:
SEC (4), Big 12 (3), ACC (1), 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) Florida Atlantic at (1) Ohio State
(9) LSU at (8) West Virginia
(12) BYU at (5) Florida
(13) Boise State at (4) Georgia
(11) Auburn at (6) Missouri
(14) Tulsa at (3) Oklahoma
(10) Texas at (7) Clemson
(15) Central Michigan at (2) USC

Round 2
(8) West Virginia vs (1) Ohio State
(5) Florida vs (4) Georgia
(6) Missouri vs (3) Oklahoma
(7) Clemson vs (2) USC

Round 3
(4) Georgia vs (1) Ohio State
(3) Oklahoma vs (2) USC

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

Restaurant Quick Hits: Do, Petra, Folk's Folly, Young Ave Deli

Do
First visit in over a year. The food was just as I remembered...very good. One thing that is lacking in the wine list. I would prefer to see a little more variety. Recommendations: Crunchy Spicy Crawfish Roll and sea weed salad is worth a try.

Petra
A nice little Greek/Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in East Memphis. It is located a couple of doors down from Swanky's near Poplar and Kirby. The Petra Gyro was very tasty and all options are reasonably priced.

Folk's Folly
I've had two visits at this Memphis favorite over the past few weeks. As expected the steaks are consistently excellent and the cheesecake may be the best in Memphis. Keeping up with my wine griping, the Folk's Folly has a tremendous wine line, but it seems to be a bit over priced. Several "wineys" that joined me at dinner last night agreed. My friends made a smart choice by bringing two cases of wine to the restaurant and paying the corkage fees. And yes, we did go through two cases of wine/champagne.

Young Avenue Deli
Had the burger for the first time. Give smoked gouda and bacon a try as your toppings next you have Young Ave's burger. Can't help but like the smoke-free environment.

Dave & Willie, Elvis Week and Kid Rock

Just a reminder about some upcoming Memphis concerts and Elvis Week. Dave Mathews and Willie Nelson are playing at Autozone Park on Saturday, August 2. Kid Rock will bring his act to Mud Island on Sunday, August 17. It's not too late to get tickets to both shows.

For all of you Elvis freaks, I mean fans, Elvis Week kicks off on August 9 and goes through August 17. This week guarantees endless people watching, especially at the annual candle light vigil that will be held on Friday, August 15.

Memphis Chain Restaurants: Hello Panera, Adios Steak & Ale?

I'm not a fan of chain restaurants, but I thought I would share some local news regarding this industry. First, Panera Bread has finally arrived in the Mid-South. The first Memphis area location will be in Cordova in the Trinity Common's strip mall. It was also announced today that Chick-fil-a will be opening a location on Union in Midtown.

On a not so positive note, it is rumored that East Memphis' Steak & Ale will be shutting its doors as a result of its parent company's bankruptcy filing.

Beating The Heat, Starbucks and Iris

Umm...if you haven't noticed, its a tad bit hot in Memphis today. Does 101 qualify as toasty? A good way to stay cool may be to go to the Flying Saucer for Pint Night.

On Friday, Starbucks announced that some of its Memphis area stores would be closing. The closings are just a handful of the 600 planned store closures nationwide. Check out the official list for more details.

I've been hearing nothing but good things about Restaurant Iris. The Commerical Appeal review of the fairly new Midtown restaurant only peaked my interest. The CA gave Iris 4 stars. Only the 6th restaurant to achieve this status. It looks like you can't go wrong with a John Besh influenced restaurant. I definitely need to check this place out.

Old Timers, Dark Knight, Blues on the Bluff, and Top 25 list

ESPN is surely playing a joke...right? As of this morning, the Shark was leading The Open. I honestly didn't realize he was still a professional golfer. What's next, a surprise Sunday rally by the legendary Chi-Chi Rodriquez? The feel good story is great, but the young guns need to man up and show that there is still talent on the PGA Tour without Tiger Woods.

For those that don't now, Greg Norman has been doing well lately with his wineries. I highly recommend Greg Norman Estates Chardonnay and Limestone Cabernet-Shiraz.

Side note...is Heath Ledger this generation's James Dean? Discuss among yourselves.

Onto Memphis fun. WEVL's Blues on the Bluff is this Staturday. This looks like fun. For information, visit WEVL.com.

WEVL is looking for volunteer djs/show hosts. Can I bring my ipod and hit shuffle? If so, count me in.

CNN/Money magazine released their top 25 cities for single people. Unfortunately, Memphis did not make the list. Memphis needs to start making more top 25 lists beyond college basketball polls and crime lists.

Snowden Grove Music & Bike Rally And A Dixie-Fried Top 10 List

Ticket’s go on sale on Friday, July 18 for Snowden Grove Amphitheater’s Music and Bike Rally. This three day rally host a variety of musical acts including Kanas, Saliva, Charlie Daniels and local favorite Aquanet. Don’t forget, motorcycles get free parking.





College football is right around the corner. To get you pumped up about the upcoming season, Dixie Fried Sports has an interesting take on some of the over and underrated traditions in southern college football.

And The Randomness Continues

Another One Bites The Dust

Per the Memphis Business Journal, Midtown’s French Quarter Inn is closing. This continues a trend of Overton Square area businesses either relocating or shutting their doors. There is still no word on plans for new tenants or redeveloping of Overton Square. One has to wonder what is next for French Quarter Inn…condos?


Return Of The Mack

John Calipari confirmed that the Memphis Tigers will allow Doneal Mack to return the basketball team. Mack had initially announced that he was transferring to New Orleans . UNO was counting on Mack to help the Privateers return the Sunbelt dominance that the Privateers had in the Earvin Johnson era.

Lost In The Clutter - Local Elections

With so much focus on the upcoming presidential election, some may have failed to remember that state and federal elections will be held on August 7. Don’t forget to register to vote and show up at the polls. It looks like the ballot will have several races.

Weekend Fun

Legendary musical act Earth Wind and Fire will entertain Memphians on Saturday, July 19 at the Memphis Botanic Gardens. Tickets are still available. The venue is perfect for spreading out on the lawn and bringing your own food and beverages.


There Goes The Diet

After a recent horrendous round of golf, we stopped at BW3's near Highland for snacks and adult beverages. We decided to try the new Cheeseburger Bites appetizer. If you were hoping for sliders, you would have been dissappointed. Instead, these tastey bites are bite-sized balls of ground beef, cheese and onions that are battered and deep fried. Far from healthy, but oh so good. A friend compared them to bite sized Krystal hamburgers.

S.O.S. Now

Let your elected officials know that change is necessary to help reduce rising fuel and energy costs. Visit Stop Oil Speculation Now to see how you can help.

More Random Stuff

As many of you know, Muvico’s last day of operation at Downtown Memphis’ Peabody Place was this past Sunday. Over the past year or so, several leases were not renewed, paving the way for the expansion of the Peabody Hotel. It appears that Encore, Texas de Brazil, Jillian’s and a few retail stores will remain open in Peabody Place.

Per MSN.com, the bourbon business is booming. Apparently there is an increased demand for bourbon from over seas and just in time for National Bourbon Heritage Month (September). Remember to load up for football season. Speaking of bourbon, next time you are at a local bar ask for a Bogalusa . This is a simple shot of Wild Turkey chased with a shot of pickle juice. It sounds strange, but it is very tasty.

Concert Reminder: Robert Plant and Alison Krauss

Robert Plant and Alison Krauss are playing at the Mud Island Amphitheatre on Tuesday, July 8. This sounds like an interesting combination for a concert. Reviews at shows in other cities have been nothing but positive. Its not too late to get tickets.

New Season Of The First 48 Kicks Off Tonight

The new season of The First 48 kicks off tonight. The Commerical Appeal did confirm that the Lester Street massacre will be included in the new season and will be aired in a special 1-hour episode on July 16 at 8pm central time. The CA also reported that MPD is open to renewing its contract with A&E if the opportunity should arise.

Correction: It appears that the Real Vice Cops Uncut show will feature the Shelby County Vice Squad, not the MPD.

Memphis Vice Squad To Be Featured In New TV Series

The Memphis Business Journal is reporting that the Memphis Police Department's Vice Squad will be featured on Spike TV's new series "Real Vice Cops Uncut." The new series starts August 6.

This will be the second tv series featuring Memphis' finest. A&E's "The First 48" follows MPD's Homicide Unit to various crime scenes throughout Memphis. This will be MPD's last season on the A&E series. New episodes begin tomorrow.

Kid Rock Coming Back To Memphis

Kid Rock with special guest Rev Run of RUN DMC will return to Memphis on Sunday, August 17th. Tickets for this Mud Island Amphitheatre event go on sale on Saturday, June 28 at 10am.

Big Fun In Memphis This Weekend

In addition to the Canada Day celebration at Big Foot Lodge on Sunday, there are a few other fun things to do this weekend in the Memphis area. If you like free events, then you will be happy that it’s the last Friday of the month. The South Main Association will host their monthly Art Trolley Tour. South Main merchants and galleries typically open their doors and offer free snacks and adult beverages. This event is also good for people watching.

If you are up for some great 80’s college/indie music, then the Midtown Blue Monkey may be the place for you. Local band Walrus will take the stage Friday night. The guys from Walrus always put on a great show and they usually have a great crowd.

Local auto racing fans will have an opportunity to see the NASCAR Truck Series at the Memphis Motor Sports Park in Millington. The green flag will drop at the O’Rielly 200 at 8pm.

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!

Downtown Memphis Condo Auction – Saturday, June 21

The River Tower Condominium development will hold an inventory close-out auction of 44 condos. 10 are guaranteed to sell at the auction. Opening bids kick off Saturday, June 21 at 11am. River Town is a gated community near Downtown attractions like Beale Street and FedEx Forum. This might be a good time to pick up a great condo at a decent price. For more information about the auction, visit JPKing.com.

Belly Up And Join The Fun, Pub Olympics Less Than 2 Weeks Away

For those of you that don't know, Pub Olympics 2008 will be held on Sunday, June 22 at Hoops Bar located off of Beale Street in Downtown Memphis. Several beer drinking competitions will be held, including beer pong, quarters, tricycle racing, one man chug and team chug. I wonder if they will have DAS BOOT.

I've noticed a shortage of funnels at the hardware store and Blockbuster never has Revenge of the Nerds or Beerfest in stock, so I'm fairly confident that there have been teams training for this much anticipated event. For some, the skills necessary to win it all will just come naturally.

To enter a team or learn more about Pub Olympics 2008 visit Hoops Bar or call 901-827-1351.

Weekend Recommendations

Here are a few quick recommendations for this weekend in Memphis.

Friday Night

It’s the last Friday of the month, so the South Main Association will have their monthly Trolley Tour. The weather should be perfect for gallery hopping, people watching and adult beverages. As always, this event is free.

Memphis Italian Festival is always a good time. Like bbq fest, you have to know someone on a team to get into a team’s booth/tent. You can still have a good time if you don’t have team connections. The festival offers other activities, including live music. Visit their website for more info. Tickets are $10 and are available at the gate.

Saturday
Italian Festival continues. If you had enough pasta and mozzarella to last you for few weeks, you should check out Aquanet at the Downtown Flying Saucer. Aquanet is one of the best 80’s rock cover bands around. If you are a fan of this style of music, you will not be disappointed.

2008 Memphis Memorial Day Weekend Recommendations

If you don't have plans for the weekend, ML recommends a couple of fun options.

On Saturday night, head down to Tom Lee Park for Memphis In May's Sunset Symphony. The Four Tops will join the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for an evening of fun on the river. There is also an air show before the music kicks off and fireworks usually follow the symphony. Gates open at 2pm. Remember that you can bring your own food and drink to this event, so be sure to load up the cooler with your favorite beverages and snacks.

If you didn't get enough of Downtown Memphis on Saturday, then you should stick around and go the Redbirds game on Sunday evening. Gametime is 6:05 with a special fireworks celebration after the game. If you don't want to pay ballpark prices for beer, stop by Bigfoot Lodge for $2 34oz Coors Light draught beer before the game. This special runs all day on Sunday.

With the first pick, the Memphis Grizzlies select...

For those who forgot that Memphis has a NBA team, the professional league held its draft lottery tonight. Because of their not so great record, the Grizzlies has had a 27.9% chance to get the first or second overall pick. Was lady luck on their on side in the quest to acquire Derrick Rose or Michael Beasley? Not tonight. The Grizzlies will have the 5th overall pick in the 2008 draft.

And the quest for Derrick Rose goes to:

Here's how we see the Top 5 picks of the 2008 NBA draft going down:

1 - Chicago Bulls - Derrick Rose
2 - Miami Heat - Michael Beasley
3 - Minnesota Timberwolves - Brook Lopez
4 - Seattle Sonics - OJ Mayo
5 - Memphis Grizzlies - Jerryd Bayless

The Grizzlies also have an additional selection late in the first round.

Get Out Your Slingblade, Billy Bob's Coming To Memphis

I was goofing around today and found out that Billy Bob Thornton & the Box Master's will be playing at the Hi-Tone on August 6th. I haven't heard any thing about his band, but I'm sure this will be an interesting time.

A Bravo Memphis Art Exhibit Sneak Peek and Wine Tasting

Join Bravo Memphis at the David Lusk Gallery for a preview of Crowded, a collection of work from four emerging male artists under 40 - Mike Force, Marcus Kenney, Shawn Mathews, and Cordy Ryman. The evening will feature conversation with an artist showcased in the exhibit, a sampling of white wines, plenty of hearty appetizers and a silent auction for the ultimate experiences for date night or group outings.

Thursday, June 5, 2008, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Tickets $45 for couple and $25 for singles.
Contact Pat Mitchell Worley at pworley@artsmemphis.org to get your tickets today.

Random Updates

- The Bayou Bar & Grill has moved to its new location and will re-open on May 21. They are moving from their longtime location next to Le Chardonnay to a new location across the street on Madison near Paulette's and Studio on the Square. Le Chardonnay is also moving to the same building on Madison that was fomerly occupied by Squared Foods.

- Rumors are floating around that the Downtown Blue Monkey will re-open this week.

- Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero has opened Downtown. Their official "grand opening" will be on May 25. In addition to live blues music Thursday - Saturday, Ground Zero will also be open for lunch and dinner.

Random Stuff: Super Bowl and Grizzlies Changes

Congrats to the New York football Giants on their victory over the Patriots in the Super Bowl. It was one the best games in recent memory. I'm also happy because I won the 2 quarters of the office football pool.

Memphis Lagniappe's Favorite Super Bowl Ad:



Looks like the Grizzlies are finally shaking things up before trade deadline. Last week they unloaded Gasol and today they shipped Stromile Swift to New Jersey for Jason Collins. Lets hope they can find some cap room and sign a few strong free agents in before next season.

British Television Advertising Awards

This year's British Television Advertising Awards brings a new batch of original, daring and hilarious commercials to The Memphis Brooks Museum. The exhibit kicks off on January 24 and runs through January 27. For more information visit the Brooks Museum or call 901-544-6200.

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.
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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.