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MEMPHIS
J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Silver
OUR
25
CELEBRATION:
years
AULD LANG SYNE: 2014 YEAR IN REVIEW
Life is even better with
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Make your eye
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1225 Madison Ave., in the Midtown Medical District
901-722-3250
www.eyecentermemphis.com
D RY E Y E
RELIEF
Now Taking Appointments
901.722.3263
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MEMPHIS
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
VOLUME 25 · ISSUE 1
FEATURES
STAFF
Campus Canvas:
MEMPHIS IS MUSIC
10
Meet the winners of our 12th annual Downtown Elementary School Art Contest —
small hands composing beautiful music on
paper.
Jodie Vance Publisher
Terre Gorham Editor
editor@memphisdowntowner.com
Chris Strain Creative Director
art@memphisdowntowner.com
Advertising Department
sales@memphisdowntowner.com
Contributors
Yalonda M. James
Discovery901:
The Consortium MMT
12
The national music mentorship
organization plays on the past to
compose the future.
-by Terre Gorham
SM
2014 YEAR IN REVIEW:
Downtown’s Song
14
Downtown hit the high notes during the
year, with plenty of positive strides worth
singing about.
-interview by Terre Gorham
So It Goes
22
DEPARTMENTS
6
8
17
19
20
Skyliners
City Blocks
Special Events
Monthly Highlights
Driving Into a New Year
-by Raymond L. Atkins
View Us on
Your Mobile
©2015 Downtown Productions Inc.
memphisdowntowner.com
tel: 901-525-7118 • fax: 901-525-7128
admin@memphisdowntowner.com
Materials may not be reproduced in whole or part without the publisher’s written
consent. Unless otherwise credited, photos in this publication are courtesy of the
persons or organizations involved. Downtowner Magazine Memphis is a bimonthly
publication with a circulation of 25,000. Annual subscriptions are $15. Please notify
us of any change in address.
About the Cover:
Have you got what it takes to shoot a
magazine cover? Let’s find out! Send
your hi-res cover considerations to:
contest@memphisdowntowner.com.
You’ll be notified if your
cover photo is selected.
Entertainment &
Dining Guide
4
Downtown Productions Inc.
408 S. Front Street, Suite 109
Memphis, TN 38103
P.O. Box 3367, Memphis, TN 38173
DOWNTOWNER MAGAZINE | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
GO AHEAD AND
COVER US UP!
Alexander K. Diaz,
earning his doctorate
in biomedical research,
captured the aftermath
of Memphis’s earlyMarch 2014 ice storm.
When not researching
brain tumors at St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Alex practices his newfound
hobby using a Nikon FM. “I shoot 35mm black and white,” he
says. “It emphasizes contrast, both in terms of color value and
texture. I believe that no two people inhabit the same world, and
photography is my invitation for others to see mine.”
678-773-8347, alexanderkdiaz@gmail.com.
MEMPHISDOWNTOWNER.com
AT THE P!NK PALACE
An extraordinary journey
to the birthplace of stars ... and beyond
Opens January 10, 2015
JANUARY 24 – APRIL 19, 2015
SKYLINERS
Harbor Town Turns 25
Mud Island’s first single-family residential
community came on the Downtown scene in
1989, a visionary neighborhood spearheaded
by Memphis developer Henry Turley. Located on
the banks of the Mississippi River, the urbanist
neighborhood includes traditional row houses
and contemporary homes and apartments, built
within an environment that encourages human
interaction, with nature trails, ponds, boat
marinas, walking paths, parks, and playscapes.
Winner of multiple design awards, Harbor
Town is one of the nation’s most fully developed
and successful Traditional Neighborhood
Developments. It’s home to a retail center, grocery
store, school, health care center, restaurants,
boutique hotel, and other amenities.
Downtown Neighborhood Association’s 2015 board of directors and committee chairs
include (l–r): Don Adams, Jeff Zepatos, William Norris, Clarissa Tye, David Bunk, Erin Cihak,
Michelle LeFavre, Mickell Lowery, Felicia Miller, and Tanja Mitchell.
To coincide with its yearlong silver
anniversary celebration, Harbor Town installed its
first piece of outdoor artwork. Romantic Twist,
designed and created by John and Jin Powell of
2Js Studio, rises off Island Drive on the north end
of the community.
2015 DNA Officers
Chartered in 1981 by a small group of Downtown pioneers, the Downtown Neighborhood
Association was created to define and address issues that concerned a reviving Downtown
population. As the organization enters its 34th year, a new board of leaders takes up the
charge of the organization’s mission to promote, enhance, and protect the quality of life in
the Downtown area and maintain and foster a spirit of community for Downtown residents,
businesses, and visitors.
President
Don Adams
Owner
RAC ProDryer
Born: Georgetown, OH
President-Elect
Mickell Lowery
District Sales Manager
FedEx
Born: Memphis
Secretary
Clarissa Tye
Business Development
Mid-South Casters & Equipment
Born: Middleton, TN
Treasurer
Will Norris
Teller Supervisor
BankTennessee
Born: Memphis
At-Large/Communications
Business Representative
David Bunk
Owner/Photographer
Reel 2 Reel Photography
Born: Clearfield, PA
6
Membership Representative/
Immediate Past President
Tanja Mitchell
Uptown Neighborhood Coordinator
Born: Waukegan, IL
For more information, call 901-523-9853 or
visit harbortownmemphis.com.
Mud Island Representative
Felicia Miller
Sr. Administrative Assistant
Nike Inc.
Born: Memphis
Uptown–Pinch Representative
Nicole Wilborn
Flight Attendant
Delta Air Lines
Born: Memphis
Center District Rep
Jeff Zepatos
Recruiting Coordinator
PeopleScout
Born: Memphis
South District Representative
Michele LeFavre
Database Administrator
Thomas & Betts
Born: Revere, MA
Call 901-466-6893
or visit memphisdna.org.
courtesy Obsidian Public Relations
Erin Cihak
Employee Benefits, Communications, and
Planning
AutoZone
Born: Memphis
The 11-foot steel, bronze, and cast-stone
sculpture was designed to exemplify the
convergence of the Wolf and Mississippi rivers
and the roles they played in creating the area
that became Harbor Town. And when the sun
falls below the horizon, Romantic Twist is gently
backlit as an enduring reminder of the two historic
rivers that still influence Harbor Town’s existence.
SKYLINERS
Dr. Hooks Exhibit
Memphis Public Libraries honors the life and
legacy of Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks with a permanent
exhibit that commemorates the civil rights icon's
achievements and significance — locally and
internationally. Hooks was also a lawyer, minister,
NAACP executive director, Tennessee's first black
criminal judge, and the first black commissioner of
the FCC.
An official unveiling is scheduled for Saturday,
Jan. 31, at 2 p.m. Hooks, who died in 2010, was
born on Jan. 31.
Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks served as executive
director of the NAACP from 1977 to 1993.
For more information, call 901-415-2847 or visit
memphislibrary.org
courtesy Memphis Public Library
courtesy Memphis Public Library
The exhibit, mounted on the north wall of the
Central Library lobby at 3030 Poplar, consists of a
horizontal stainless steel panel with levels of text
and images. The exhibit offers customers links to
other library resources about Hooks, his work, and
his life.
Standing behind Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks are his
daughter, Patricia, and his wife, Frances, in
the 1960s.
The Censor’s Grandson
Dr. Fred Trexler, grandson of former Memphis film censor Lloyd T. Binford, recently
visited the Lincoln American Tower, the 1925 gothic office building where his grandfather’s
offices were located.
“My grandfather owned the insurance company that had this building built,” says
Trexler, a retired pastor. “The building was called the Columbia Mutual Tower, and it was
modeled after a building in New York. Binford’s business occupied several floors. His office
was on the top floor, and I remember that the elevator opened right into his penthouse
office.”
The Lincoln American Tower is one of three iconic buildings that were extensively
renovated to create today’s Court Square Center, home to retail establishments and
apartments. During the reconstruction, however, care was taken to keep as many of the
original components intact as possible.
“I am so impressed and so thankful,” says Trexler. “I noticed that the original mailboxes
and mail chute are still there by the elevator, and the
stone engraving of two women and two children is still
above the front door. I believe one of the women is my
mother.”
“Out of curiosity, I wanted to see the renovated
building,” says Trexler, who serves as a part-time pastoral
assistant at Faith Baptist Church in Bartlett. “While the
building was in limbo, I was praying that the city wouldn’t
tear it down. Imagine! My grandfather’s office is a
penthouse apartment now.”
Trexler’s daughter, ironically, is a movie producer.
The Lincoln American Tower
at Court Square Center
”The Legacy of Lloyd T. Binford” was published in the
July 1993 issue of the Downtowner magazine. For more
information about Court Square Center, call 866-2828541 or visit courtsquarecenter.com.
Binford was legendary as a prolific film censor in
Memphis. He served on the Memphis Board of Censors
from 1928 until his retirement in 1955, at the age of 87.
During his tenure, more movies were banned in Memphis
than in any other city in the country. Many other films
were heavily censored.
Dr. Fred Trexler, grandson of former Memphis film
censor Lloyd T. Binford, remembers the mailboxes and
mail chute in his grandfather’s office building, which
was renovated into today’s Court Square Center.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 | DOWNTOWNER MAGAZINE
7
CITY BLOCKS
City Cheers ...
n The Pink Palace Museum wins “Best Museum
in West Tennessee” in The Tennessee Magazine’s
annual Best of Tennessee Readers’ Choice Awards
(tnmagazine.org). The Pink Palace Family of
Museums includes a wide-ranging collection
of historic, educational, and technological
attractions: 3050 Central, 901-636-2362,
memphismuseums.org.
courtesy NBE
n RiverFit — the Memphis Grizzlies Riverfront
Fitness Trail — extends its availability in Tom
Lee Park until April 2015. Originally intended to
run for three months, the installation — with its
six fitness and exercise stations, volleyball court,
and soccer field — has been popular enough
to warrant remaining open additional months:
getriverfit.com.
City of Good Abode …
First lady Michelle Obama, longtime New Ballet Ensemble student Briana Brown, and
NBE founder and CEO Katie Smythe
n Free tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers
is available Jan. 16–April 15. The Free Tax Prep
Program is part of United Way of the Mid-South’s
Financial Stability Initiative. Call 2-1-1 or 901-4152790 for locations and hours.
n New Ballet Ensemble and School receives a 2014 National Arts and Humanities
Youth Program Award, which recognizes the country’s best creative youth
development programs that use arts and the humanities to increase academic
achievement. The White House specifically recognized New Ballet Ensemble as a
program that brings together students from diverse backgrounds to build selfconfidence, leadership, and academic success — and to heal a community divided by
race — through dance: 2157 York, 901-726-9225, newballet.org.
On the Move ...
n ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness arm of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, plans to
renovate the 10,000-square-foot Memphis Artesian Water Department building into an events
center. The 1911 building, which sits across A.W. Willis Avenue from the iconic BRIDGES facility
at 477 N. Fifth, will be designed to replace St. Jude’s on-site ALSAC Pavilion for hosting small
events and company meetings. Targeted completion date is mid 2015: 901-595-4414, stjude.
org.
n The Arcade Restaurant plans to add dinner, cocktails, and possibly live music during its
fourth-generation makeover. Owner Harry Zapatos Jr. is letting his two sons try out the latenight change-up, while keeping a close “father’s eye” on the process: 540 S. Main, 901-5265757, arcaderestaurant.com.
n Earnestine & Hazel’s will turn its adjacent, westside, hole-in-the-wall space into the Hole in
the Wall, a laid-back happy-hour bar served up with chef Kelly English’s culinary touch: 531 S.
Main, 901-523-9754, earnestineandhazelsjukejoint.com.
n Cafe Pontotoc, an internationally inspired tapas restaurant and bar, adds weekend brunch
to its current happy hour and evening offerings. Shrimp and grits, breakfast dogs, mimosas,
bloody marys, and plenty of neighborhood warmth: 314 S. Main, 901-249-7955, facebook.com/
cafepontotoc.
n Rachel’s Salon & Day Spa, opened by Rachel Hill in 1983, has a new owner. Memphian Paige
Garland, formerly an Aveda Salon development partner, has worked the business side of the
beauty industry since the early ‘90s. She will preserve Rachel’s long-standing customer service
while introducing new services and systems: 10 N. Main, 901-527-7511, memphissalonspa.com.
8
courtesy Mercer University Press
n Home lots in Victorian Village’s Planters Row II subdivision are on the market. The purchase
price includes the conceptual design of each home by master planning firm Design 500. The
design meets the requirements of the Victorian Village Landmarks District. This $3 million,
privately funded project comprises eight lots in a gated community: 600 block of Jefferson
Avenue between the Medical Center District and Downtown: 901-277-0223, design500.us.
n Award-winning author and
Downtowner Magazine “So It Goes”
humor-column writer Raymond L.
Atkins releases his fourth novel,
“Sweetwater Blues.” In the book,
lifelong best friends Rodney and Palmer
crash a Camaro into a tree. Palmer
flies into a haystack, Rodney flies
into the great beyond, and nothing in
Sweetwater is ever the same again:
raymondlatkins.com, mupress.org.
CITY BLOCKS
Music Mojo ...
n “Gimme Indie Rock: 500 Essential
American Underground Rock Albums
1981–1996” is an illustrated, 400-page
guide to essential albums from the
most influential period in indie and
alternative rock. Written by Memphian
Andrew Earles, the book contains
album and artist profiles from coast
to coast, in markets large and small:
voyageurpress.com, andrewearles.com.
Marmalade Restaurant owners Mae and L.B. Smith
n Here’s a toast to
Marmalade Restaurant
— the second-oldest
restaurant in South Main
— which has preserved
traditions of the South since
1982 when owner Mae
Smith opened her dream
and served up history.
Marmalade is now listed
on the National Register
of Historic Places, the
official list of the nation’s
historic places worthy
of preservation:153 G.E.
Patterson, 901-522-8800.
Hitting the Streets …
courtesy Quarto Publishing Group USA
n Burgers, dogs, snacks, and “grown-up
milkshakes” fill the menu at Oshi Burger
Bar — an “American diner with Japanese
influence” that combines an upscale burger
joint with an Asian motif. Whether you order
the Mr. Roboto, Danger Dog, Mo-Rockin, or
Siam I Am, all burgers and dogs are made
with 100 percent natural, hormone- and
antibiotic-free beef. The snacks and greens
menu includes Rajun Asian Wings, Tempura
Onion Rings, “Philly” Egg Roll, and Tuna
Tataki. Vegetarian options available: 94 S.
Main, 901-341-2091, oshiburger.com.
n The former Lexus Lounge inside the
FedExForum is now the Horseshoe Club
Featuring Kelly English. Horseshoe Tunica
teams its first-class brand of hospitality
leadership with an a la carte bar menu
by nationally acclaimed chef English. The
popular full-service bar with specialty drinks
remains in the mix. Reservations available:
191 Beale, 901-205-1830, fedexforum.com.
Special Deliveries ...
Downtown Departures ...
n TJ Mulligan’s, the historic Pinch District’s
venerable lucky charm at 362 N. Main, closes its
Irish-centric establishment to make way for a new
restaurant configuration, yet to be determined.
n Love Pop Soda Shop offers craft sodas
from bottlers across the country, with more
than 200 soda flavors that include some
courtesy Becky Wilson
n The Orpheum Theatre installs a new sound
system, the first major upgrade to the audio
equipment since the 1983 renovation. When
The Orpheum was built in 1928, it was designed
for unamplified performances. The new sound
system provides the clarity and sound levels
necessary to support every type of performance,
from Broadway to rock concerts. The Orpheum’s
historic architecture was protected by minimizing
the loudspeakers’ visual impact while ensuring
balanced audio coverage for all seats: 203 S.
Main, 901-525-3000, orpheum-memphis.com.
unusual ones, such as Avery’s Bug Barf, a
kiwi-pineapple blend; Flying Cauldron nonalcoholic butterscotch beer; and MacFuddy
pepper elixir. Pure cane sugar is used instead
of high-fructose corn syrup. Handmade ice
cream is on tap, too: 506 S. Main, 901-5721584, lovepopsodashop.com.
n Main St. Cafe brings Southern cooking
to North Main. Breakfast offers platters,
sandwiches, waffles, and sides. Lunch fare
includes burgers, quesadillas, dogs, po’boys,
catfish, fried chicken, tacos, salads, and a
steam-table “hot bar.” Desserts? Pudding,
cakes, and cobblers: 97 N. Main, 901-6728518, facebook.com.
n “Good down-home food” is on the menu
at Marie’s Eatery, the South Main District’s
newest restaurant. Homemade recipes, daily
“special meals,” and soul food “to take your
soul away” are available seven days a week.
Owners Carl and Marie Bonner come to the
historic district with catering backgrounds,
and a tour company operation is on the
drawing board: 106 G.E. Patterson, 901650-5496, facebook.com.
n Photographer, philosopher, and world traveler
Rebecca Webb Wilson, who also founded the youth
leadership program Bridge Builders, chronicles
the seasons of life in her book “Well Seasoned:
Savoring Life’s Lessons,” a collage of photographs
and inspirational essays: ISBN 978-0-9898008-6-0,
hawkeyenature.com.
9
IS MUSIC
GRADES 1–2 |
Memphis is Music
1st Place
Alzahra Altreb
2nd Place
Haleigh Diaz
3rd Place
Laila Sanders
Class: 1-03
Class: 2-04
Class: 2-02
Aspires to be:
Doctor who helps
people with allergies
Aspires to be: Nurse
who works with grownups — like my aunt
does
Aspires to be: Cook
that makes desserts
Music instruments
played: Piano, guitar,
drums
Artist’s comments:
Music notes are
everywhere! The Z’s
at the bottom stand
for my name. In the background, the music flows
around and up and down — like a rainbow roller
coaster.
Judges’ Comments: We were drawn to this
rainbow-patterned piece because it shows such
movement. It flows and meanders around the page
— just like music does.
GRADES 3–4 |
Music instruments
played: Flute,
maracas, triangle,
xylophone
In the center is a red
smile with green teeth. Two blue and orange doors
at the bottom open into the Smiley School of Music.
The school is above the red smile, decorated with
hearts and colors and my imagination.
Judges’ Comments: We liked the “stage
quality” in this piece. The foreground, middle, and
background segments suggest a brightly colored,
festive performance venue.
Memphis is Music
are playing.
The music notes are
people, and in the
background is all the
music that the people
Judges’ Comments: This piece’s composition
captured our attention. The energy, the jumbled
color. It looks like the harmony was drawn behind
the key notes, and the piece flows so much like the
melody in music.
1st Place
Tiffany DeOssio
2nd Place
Niyah Murray
3rd Place
Tyler Saffold
Class: 3-02
Class: 4-03
Class: 4-04
Tiffany was out of the
country at the time of
the interviews and was
therefore unavailable
to comment.
Aspires to be:
Reading teacher
Aspires to be:
Maybe something that
involves computers
Judges’ Comments:
This one struck a chord
with us! The design itself
makes music, and it has
a finished quality that
makes the art look like a
poster. The piece looks
like it could play music on
its own.
Music instruments
played: Guitar, piano,
and I’d love to play
saxophone
I wanted to make this
look realistic, so I
mixed the orange with
the white and curved up the bottom of the horn.
Then I wanted to be creative, so I made music notes
come out of the horn. To make the background “go”
with the saxophone, I wanted it to feel comfortable.
Blue and red came to mind — blue for blues music.
Judges’ Comments: We were drawn into the
dimensionality of the instrument. It’s a sophisticated
drawing. Being able to draw the horn’s bell with that
sense of depth is an advanced skill.
10
Music instruments
played: I’d like to
learn to play drums.
Music instruments
played: Guitar, piano
This is a brand-new
guitar, and everybody
is excited, so the
blue sparks in the
background are fireworks. I didn’t use a model; it all
came out of my head.
Judges’ Comments: This expressive piece is
so full of energy, from the background popping
with fireworks to the vibrancy of the strings. The
sounds come to life through the colors. It’s definitely
plugged in and ready to rock!
Our 12th annual Downtown Elementary School Art Contest was themed
“Memphis is Music.” Grades 1–4 composed beautiful music on paper,
while Grade 5 played tribute to the city’s music icons.
Here are the high notes …
GRADE 5 |
Music VIPS
1st Place
Amario Hutley
2nd Place
Brandon Bonner
3rd Place
Ivan Ingram
Class: 5-02
Class: 5-01
Class: 5-01
Music icon: Singer/
Songwriter Jeff Buckley
Music icon: Singer/
Songwriter Isaac Hayes
Aspires to be:
Veterinarian
Aspires to be: Small
forward for the NBA,
like my favorite player,
Kevin Durant
Music icon: Sun
Records Founder Sam
Phillips
Music instruments
played: Violin, piano
— before I broke my
wrist!
I chose Jeff Buckley
because I like the way his head is tilted. I wanted to
do something different, so I changed his skin color.
I acted like he was in a misty room that could be
a little creepy, which is why I put the black border
around it. My dad inspired me to use green skin
because he made a picture of me in green skin, and I
looked awesome.
Judges’ Comments: This is a highly expressive,
striking piece. Quite sophisticated. The head tilting,
capturing the facial expression — but also being
able to draw the arc of the hat brim is advanced.
Music instruments
played: Viola
I chose Isaac Hayes
because my grandmother always told me how he
was a great blues musician. She not only liked his
music, but she thought he could be a good role
model. He’s standing in the sunshine, which casts a
shadow on the right side of the face.
Judges’ Comments: Brandon really took some
risks here. Look at the background, the faraway
look, and the shading and shadowing that together
give this portrait a very specific mood. He’s
attempting to tie in a lot of different techniques, and
he did so very successfully.
Aspires to be: Police
officer
Music instruments
played: Drums, bass
and alto xylophone,
recorder
I chose black and orange because he’s standing
outside in the sun. The hardest part was to curve the
nose just right.
Judges’ Comments: We were drawn to the
strong, basic lines. Its seeming simplicity makes
this piece jump out at you. There’s clarity to the
background and to the approach, but it works. It’s
very dynamic in its simplicity.
CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED IN THIS YEAR’S CONTEST!
KEEP UP THE GOOD ARTWORK FOR NEXT YEAR’S CONTEST!
We owe a tremendous expression of gratitude to our loyal partner and contest co-sponsor, Art Center,
an art supply store at 1636 Union. Each year, Art Center (artcentermemphis.com) contributes generous
monetary awards, art supplies, and gift bags to the contest winners and the school.
Special thanks to this year’s contest judges:
Shannon Elliott, Ed.D.
Director of Art Education, Memphis College of Art
Shannon began her art-teaching career more than 25 years ago in New York City junior high schools. An
active painter, she came to MCA in 2013 and has exhibited her work in select exhibitions across the U.S.
and abroad.
Jennifer Gonzales
Coordinator of Art Education & Student Achievement Coordinator, Memphis College of Art
Jennifer is an artist and educator who works with community organizations, current students, and future
teachers to create inclusive arts learning communities.
And special thanks to Downtown Elementary School art teacher Miranda Bavier and her creative,
talented art students.
11
DISCOVERY901
The
Consortium
Shandria Carter, 26,
a student at The
Consortium MMT,
records her song
“Come Together” in
a closet at the home
of producer Dana “DJ
Supawheels” Poole.
MMT
by Terre Gorham
courtesy The Consortium MMT / Yalonda M. James
D
on’t call it a school. It looks like a school,
with a classroom configuration, textbooks,
homework, a facilitator, and talented minds
eager to learn. But it’s not a school. “You go to
school for book knowledge,” says Hall of Fame
songwriter and producer David Porter. “You come
to us for wisdom.”
Porter, a nationally renowned music legend
who always played true to his Memphis roots,
originated the concept behind The Consortium
MMT (Memphis Music Town). His mission is as
profound as it is simple: Pass down the hard-won
knowledge, the lessons learned, the wisdom
gained, and the techniques mastered — before
they’re gone. In other words, use current music
icons to create future ones.
But what really turns this program into a powerful
development opportunity is the aspect of being
mentored by living legends. “Our mentors include
men and women who have excelled in each
discipline of study,” says Porter, “and they are
passing on their knowledge to the participants.
We are building on what’s already been given to
the world.”
So participants at The Consortium MMT are
culled and selected through a vigorous, talentsearching application process designed to identify
those with skill, promise, and — perhaps more
important — the desire and drive to excel. That
means that only the best — in the eyes of the
legends — are planted in the chairs, absorbing
the wisdom that only a lifetime of experience,
fame, and success bring.
“You Don’t Know Like I Know”
During the application process, a discipline of
interest is chosen: recording artist, songwriter,
record producer, or home studio. For six weeks,
Monday through Friday, class time is targeted
solely on the discipline of choice. “We don’t talk
about record producing during the songwriting
class,” says Porter. “We focus totally on the
creative steps that will add value to a person’s
From a stage at the front of the room, program
participants see and hear from some of the
greatest names in the music industry: Stevie
Wonder, Kirk Whalum, Maurice White, Garry Goin,
courtesy The Consortium MMT
Which is why it’s called a consortium, not a
school.
12
A book with independent studies and learning
outcomes helps that process along. It is divided
by discipline and designed as a building-block
tool to guide students along every aspect of their
field, leading them to the end goal of becoming
an exceptional, successful music industry
professional.
“When my partner, Isaac Hayes, died in 2008,
it made me ever so aware that the music giants
who came out of Memphis have something great
to give back to the next generation,” says Porter.
“We’ve been blessed with intellect, abilities, and
success, and through the legacies we established,
passing along this firsthand knowledge is
something we should do.”
“You only get into The Consortium after you’ve
shown that you want to be a part of this
process, and you have to validate that want
by demonstrating what skill levels you have in
your discipline of interest,” says Porter. “If that
impresses us adequately enough, you’re accepted
into the program.”
Hall of Fame songwriter and producer David
Porter, who originated the concept behind The
Consortium MMT, speaks to students during
the first day of sessions. His mission is as
profound as it is simple: Pass down the hardwon knowledge, the lessons learned, the wisdom
gained, and the techniques mastered — before
they’re gone. In other words, use current music
icons to create future ones.
ability in his selected discipline.”
David Porter hosts fellow super-producer
Jimmy Jam at The Consortium MMT’s celebrity
closeout session. Local celebrity guests also
stop by in continued support of Porter’s nonprofit
organization. L–R: Garry Goin, David Porter,
Jimmy Jam, James Alexander, and Randy Wade.
The Consortium MMT founder and president, David Porter, poses with MMT
talents. Participants at The Consortium MMT are culled and selected through
a vigorous, talent-searching application process designed to identify those with
skill, promise, and — perhaps more important — the desire and drive to excel.
Earth, Wind & Fire — and Porter himself — are
just a few of more than 110 video vignettes.
“GRITTY, GROOVY, & GETTIN’ IT”
Developing talent is Side A of the program. Side
B is connecting that talent to other industry
professionals. So on Saturdays during the class
cycle, all the disciplines convene.
“Every major business that’s ever been successful
Porter sits down with music producers
Jeremy Gilliam and Landon Bowen, both 23, to
discuss concepts during a night session at The
Consortium MMT. For six weeks, Monday through
Friday, class time is targeted solely on the
discipline of choice. “We don’t talk about record
producing during the songwriting class,” says
Porter. “We focus totally on the creative steps
that will add value to a person’s ability in his
selected discipline.”
To help facilitate that, Porter drives home the
legacy of Memphis music. “When the music
legends talk, these young people see the level of
respect the celebrities have for Memphis,” says
Porter. “That’s powerful. It speaks to the high
regard in which these talents hold Memphis,
Tennessee.”
In the early ‘70s, Porter notes, the third-largest
employer in Memphis was the music industry.
“There’s a reason for that,” he says. “Memphis
built a brand around the soul music that came out
of Stax, American Studios, Hi Records, Goldwax,
and Enterprise. Memphis has a brand value that is
respected all over the world. Why would you turn
away from your brand value? It makes more sense
to embrace it.”
And beyond that lies a universe of opportunity.
Participants who prove themselves at the
program’s highest levels are invited to join the
Emerging Stars Network, which benefits from The
Consortium’s lobbying efforts in the industry.
“We point to the people in the Emerging
Stars Network and tell industry professionals
nationwide, ‘If you want to find talent, it’s all over
our city. Here are some that may impress you to
a great extent because they’ve been vetted by
some of the greatest minds in the business. This is
your starting point, and from this starting point,
you will not only find what you’re looking for, but
you’ll have many of the talents that are credible in
Memphis.’”
And in that way, The Consortium and David
Porter are creating the same entrepreneurial
potential that landed the likes of Stax Records
in the history books. “Current young talents
will have opportunity, insight from us, and their
own natural gifts to create something even more
successful than we had,” says Porter. “We’d love
to have some ‘baby Staxes’ come out of this.”
Ultimately? Porter wants a thriving music industry
back in Memphis. The Talent Development Center
will help by providing free resource tools to all
program participants. “Music is a business,” says
Porter, “and sometimes business can be cold. But
if we want to have a thriving music industry in
our city, we’re going to have to get serious about
getting into the business of it, which then fuels a
music industry once again in Memphis.”
“Some of the greatest minds in the history of
American music are imparting their wisdom,”
says Porter. “We’re taking their knowledge and
putting it in a context that students can hear, see,
and breathe. For the students to receive firsthand
information from people who have not only
done it but have been highly successful with it is
enriching. It gives insight into steps that can be
applied in their own creative process.”
“SWEAT & LOVE”
had more than one
person to make
it that way,” says
Porter. “The greatest
strengths are in
numbers. Credible
numbers. So we
create an environment
where songwriters
can meet record
producers, where
recording artists can
meet songwriters —
where people from
one discipline get to
know people from
the other disciplines
and open the
discussion for possible
collaboration.”
Grammy award–winning producer Kerry “Krucial”
Brothers (left) talks with MMT talent Rickey
Thomas after Krucial’s visit to The Consortium
MMT. What really turns this program into a
powerful development opportunity is the aspect
of being mentored by living legends.
For Porter, it’s not a question of if, but when.
“Look, we didn’t invent success in the ‘60s,” says
Porter. “We didn’t invent great entrepreneurial
mindsets in the ‘60s. You have to create platforms
for people to have legitimate opportunities for
success. Some of us who have been around for a
while want to take the time to give our energies
back, to pass our gifts on to others. There is no
situation I know of that can be better at helping
young people who have a passion for music
than receiving this kind of wisdom in this sort of
fashion. And nothing could make me prouder than
having been a part of something like that. Not
‘Soul Man,’ not ‘Hold On, I’m Comin’,’ — nothing.
This, right here, gives me something much, much
stronger.”
The Consortium MMT, 22 N. Front, 2nd Fl.,
901-543-3559, theconsortiummmt.org
13
2014
Downtown’s
Y
R
Song
EAR IN
EVIEW
by Terre Gorham
T
he year blew in on a polar vortex that
plummeted temperatures to the recordbreaking end of the thermometer. On one day, all
50 states recorded below-freezing temperatures
— yes, including Hawaii. A once-in-a-lifetime
weather headline hit the daily paper — “Warmer
with a Chance of Sleet” — as Memphis shivered
through the 20th-coldest January on record.
But just as sure as Facebook turned 10 and
vaping lit up the country, temperatures and
temperaments quickly warmed in Memphis. What
followed was a sunny year of high notes worth
singing about.
Walking In Memphis
Tom Lee Park became Memphis’s first fully
accessible fitness park, thanks to a pop-up
recreation project focused on exercise and fitness.
The Grizzlies Riverfront Fitness Trail, aka RiverFit,
flexed its muscle with two sand volleyball courts,
soccer field, and six fitness stations.
Riverside Drive, meanwhile, got its own makeover
between Beale Street and Georgia Avenue.
Instead of reopening to traffic after the Memphis
in May street closures, the four-lane boulevard
was split down the middle of its landscaped
median, with the east two lanes handling twoway vehicular traffic, and the reconfigured west
two lanes hosting bicycles and people. Memphis
celebrated the yearlong experiment with its first
Open Streets event, a nationwide movement that
temporarily closes streets to automobile traffic
14
and opens them to pedestrians and non-motorized
transportation.
The 15 trolleys went off track in June, right before
tourist season. Old age and patchy maintenance
derailed the popular tourist attraction and people
mover. Green hybrid buses ran the routes while
MATA circled the wagons. Leading the charge to
get the trolleys back on track is new MATA’s new
president and general manager, Ron Garrison,
who brought experience with leading transit
systems in other cities. And although the year
ended with experts still unable to give a projected
“All aboard!” date, a new and improved transit
system rose to the top of the city’s New Year’s
resolutions.
Full steam ahead for the Main Street to Main
Street Multimodal Connector Project. It rocked
and rolled through the city, from Uptown to
South Main, leaving new sidewalks, infrastructure
upgrades, and street repairs in its wake. The
public/private project converts the Harahan Bridge
into a bicycle/pedestrian path that connects Main
Street Memphis to Broadway Avenue in West
Memphis, Arkansas.
The “centerpiece” of that project was rebranded
as Big River Crossing, and the “Bridge to
Nowhere” became the “Bridge to Somewhere”
when Arkansas agreed to allow more than
60 miles of trails atop its levees, making that
section the last piece of a right-of-way trail that
extends to New Orleans. The bridge reincarnate is
scheduled to open mid 2016.
“South Main Stories,” a six-block walking tour
through the South Main neighborhood, strolled
onto the map. Stretching from Beale Street to G.E.
Patterson, the self-guided history and architecture
tour incorporates more than 40 stops. QR codes
posted along the way invite smartphone scans
to get additional information about the site.
Complementing the tour is a new visitors guide,
“So The Legend Goes,” that lists 55 points of
interest in the neighborhood, as well as a “Little
Known Legends” section and “20 Legendary
Things to Love About Legendary South Main.”
It’s the stuff of legends.
I Wanna Live In Memphis
Urban dwellings popped up all over Downtown,
ready to unfurl the welcome mat to more than
1,000 new residents. With a population nearing
25,000, Downtown has become down-home.
The 16-story Horizon condominium tower at
Riverside Drive and I-55 that ground to an
unfinished halt in 2009 went on the market. What
was once to be a luxurious development, complete
with movie theater and small golf course, began
courting buyers to awaken the stagnant property.
Toward year’s end, Hattiesburg, Mississippi–based
Dawn Properties Inc. bought the tower with plans
to finish it out with “class-A condos” and a “Four
Seasons hotel feel.”
Harbor Town, Mud Island’s first single-family
residential community, turned 25. This awardswinning neighborhood, spearheaded by Memphis
developer Henry Turley, is one of the nation’s
most fully developed and successful Traditional
Neighborhood Developments. To coincide with
its yearlong silver anniversary celebration, Harbor
Town installed its first piece of outdoor artwork,
Romantic Twist.
Home lots in Victorian Village’s Planters Row
II, a gated, single-family subdivision, went on
the market. The custom-built homes will feature
universal design principles that make homes
comfortable and easily accessible to all ages and
abilities. Though not as large as their neighboring
antebellum mansions, Planters Row homes are
designed to add grandeur to an already grand
district.
Previtalization life stirred at the future South
Main Artspace Lofts, a project that will provide
artists with affordable housing and workspaces
inside the old United Warehouse building on St.
Paul. Plans call for more than 50 live/work units,
community/gallery space, and outdoor artist
garden.
M eet Me In Memphis
The city was gobsmacked when British royalty
slipped into town for a private wedding that
quickly turned public. Princes William and Harry
dashed in, out, and around, amid a princesighting, camera-clicking free-for-all. After they
slipped down the alley for Rendezvous barbecue
and shook it up at Graceland, they two-legged
it out of Memphis with a jolly “Cheerio!” We
then returned to our lives as “commoners” in the
uncommon city we call home.
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The city hit a home run when it purchased
AutoZone Park and sold the Memphis Redbirds
franchise to its parent team, the St. Louis
Cardinals, who committed to improving and
operating the aging but still state-of-the-art
baseball stadium while under a longtime lease
with the city. Play ball!
A few blocks south, operations for the most
popular tourist destination in Tennessee returned
to city control. The Downtown Memphis
Commission was given temporary oversight of
Beale Street while the city worked on a new,
permanent management structure for the famous
street. For the first time in more than three
decades, Beale Street’s original redeveloper was
not in charge. In December, the City Council
was presented with a proposal that calls for a
nine-member Beale Street Tourism Development
Authority to oversee and manage the street.
Arising stage right of Downtown’s 1920s movie
palace is the Orpheum Centre for Performing
Arts & Education. The two-story, 39,000-squarefoot center will host expanded education
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programs for preschool to college students, as
well as accommodate more musicals, concerts,
family programs, and multicultural events. The
performing arts campus will include a cuttingedge audio-video lab, rehearsal hall, state-ofthe-art stage the same size as The Orpheum’s,
classrooms, and enough space for programs
to serve 100,000 individuals annually. CEO
Pat Halloran — The Orpheum personified —
announced plans to retire in 2015, after 35 years
of directing the theater from rags to riches.
Expanding educational outreach was also the
focus at The National Civil Rights Museum, where
the movement marched on with a $27.5 million
renovation of the Lorraine Motel that opened
to the public in the 50th anniversary year of the
Civil Rights Act. The museum enhanced its iconic
elements with archival films, touch screens,
and more interactivity, and it added brandnew technology-driven exhibits and immersive
environments. The museum sealed its new
footprint with a new leader. Terri Lee Freeman
took up the mantle from Beverly Robertson, who
had served as president since 1997.
The Blues Foundation’s 12,000-square-foot
international headquarters on South Main began
its transition into the Blues Hall of Fame. Slated
for a May 2015 grand opening, the museum will
include blues artifacts, original blues art, and
recordings of musicians who have been inducted
into the Blues Hall of Fame since 1980. Executive
Director Jay Sieleman’ longtime dream informs the
world that Memphis is the true Home of the Blues.
Beale Street Landing, the long-awaited, six-acre,
multiuse public gathering space and docking
facility on the Mississippi River, opened with a
splash. Amenities include a specially designed
docking system for daily excursion and touring
riverboats, gift shop, picnic/play area on the
inclined grass roof, Riverfront Bar & Grill, rooftop
deck, open-air patio, and Island at Play, a water
park for children. Rolling terraces give access
to the water’s edge at all levels, on a river that
fluctuates 57 feet annually.
seemed imminent until — mere weeks before the
wrecking ball was set to swing — an armored
knight rode up to the gates and signed a contract
to buy it. Redeveloper Billy Orgel, president of
Tower Ventures, plans on a mix of residential and
commercial space.
And just up the river, Bass Pro Shops inside
The Pyramid continued forging upstream with
its iconic retail-tourist-education attraction.
Spawning a facility unlike any in the nation, Bass
Pro is filling its iconic space with a full-service
hotel, rooftop restaurant and aquarium, two
cantilevered glass balconies similar to the Grand
Canyon Skywalk, the Ducks Unlimited National
Waterfowl Heritage Center, bowling alley, stores,
ground-floor aquarium, swamp and alligator
pit, sculptural trees, boat-ramp facilities, and
extensive, exterior landscaping. May 1, 2015, is
the projected opening date.
On the heels of the Tennessee Brewery
previtalization events came the French Fort
Redevelopment Plan and a similar effort for
the Depression-era U.S. Marine Hospital in the
Metal Museum neighborhood. The three-story,
neoclassical brick building served those who
worked on the Mississippi River. Although the
property is already set to be residential, the
previtalization efforts were geared to build
awareness about its historic significance and
to garner support — and backing — for future
transformation of the area into a high-density,
mixed-use community.
M emphis In Your Mind
Bright Lights Of Memphis
The leviathan undertaking to convert the
deteriorating Hotel Chisca into an eight-story,
mixed-use structure continued. The 1913 historic
hotel at South Main and MLK Avenue is being
transformed into apartments, retail, restaurant,
parking garage, and tribute space to Dewey
Phillips, the deejay who, in 1954, first played Elvis
Presley’s music (“That’s All Right”) on air from
the studio inside the hotel. Main Street Apartment
Partners LLC bought the building and adjacent
parking garage in 2012.
An imminent demolition contract pending for
the spectacular 19th-century Tennessee Brewery
building, listed on the National Register of Historic
Places, untapped a six-week “previtalization”
project. Tennessee Brewery Untapped brought
a short-term mix of activities to the location,
along with long-term ideas. But demolition still
In his Letter from the President in the Downtown
Memphis Commission’s “FY 2014 State of
Downtown Report,” Paul Morris writes that
Downtown “employs 17 percent of the entire
Memphis workforce, serves as the region’s tourism
hub welcoming more than 5 million annual
visitors, and is the city’s anchor for culture and
entertainment, with 15 museums and premier
performance spaces.”
We have much to sing about.
And now 2015 is before us, radiating pure
potential. We have lots of choices to make and
lots of high notes to hit about how we want the
spotlight to fall on our city. Let’s choose the high
beams — let’s shine the light so bright, they’ll
have to wear shades.
Memphis Farewells in 2014
David Carter , third-generation owner of Easy-Way Produce Stores • M ary Ellen Maxwell, former executive director of
the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, whose career with arts organizations spans almost two decades • J esse Winchester , songwriter
recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from ASCAP • M ichael Heisley, former majority owner of the Grizzlies, who brought the
NBA team from Vancouver to Memphis in 2001 • D r. James Harold Daughdrill Jr., former Rhodes College president of 26 years
• R ev. Frank McR ae, longtime urban minister of social gospel, racial reconciliation, and justice, and one of just a few white clergy who
publicly supported striking sanitation workers in 1968 • David Barger Jr., founder of LunaWeb who “raised the tech tide in Memphis” •
M abon “Teenie” Hodges, songwriter, iconic guitarist, and anchor of Hi Rhythm • G lynn Johns Reed, community activist and
founder of the Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival • J ames Govan, soul singer and Beale Street fixture since 1989 • J imi Jamison,
rock vocalist, songwriter, and former lead singer of ‘80s rock bands Cobra and Survivor • J ohn “Hamptone” Hampton, longtime Ardent
Studios producer/engineer who earned multiple gold, platinum, and Grammy Award records • J ohn Fry, founder of Ardent Studios and a seminal
figure of Memphis music for 50 years.
16
SPECIAL EVENTS
Area code is 901 unless otherwise specified
Jan. 1, Feb. 5: Cooper-Young Night Out. Live
music, retail specials, and assorted cuisine in
Midtown’s historically hip district. Every 1st Thu.
5–9p, free. 276-7222, cooperyoung.biz.
WINE & SPIRITS
Thru Jan. 4: Victorian Yuletide. Each room
is trimmed with festive decorations and festive
artifacts from the archives, including the museum’s
toy and doll collection. Wed.–Sun. noon–4p,
Woodruff-Fontaine House, 680 Adams, 526-1469,
woodruff-fontaine.com.
Thru Jan. 8: Christmas at Graceland. Elvis’s
mansion welcomes the holiday season with
spectacular lights, holiday displays, and special
decorations that he originally displayed, both inside
and outside the mansion. Graceland, 332-3322,
elvis.com.
Jan. 9–11: Memphis International Auto Show.
An automotive paradise with hundreds of new
cars, trucks, sports/utility vehicles, alternative-fuel
vehicles, and automotive vendors. Fri.–Sat. 10a–9p,
Sun. 10a–5p, Cook Convention Center, 576-1200,
motortrendautoshows.com.
Jan. 15: Art and a Movie. Create art, drink wine,
play, create, and interact. Afterward, “Fantastic Mr.
Fox” film screening and more wintry celebrations.
6p, Dixon Gallery, 761-5250, dixon.org.
Jan. 16: Science of Beer. Taste beers from local
professional and home brewers while learning about
the physics of beer-making. Chili bar, demos, and
beer enthusiasts. 6–9:30p, Pink Palace, 636-2362,
memphismuseums.org.
Jan. 19: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Celebrate
the life and legacy of MLK and his civil rights
movement triumphs at special events throughout
the city. National Civil Rights Museum, 521-9699,
civilrightsmuseum.org.
Jan. 20–24: International Blues Challenge. The
world’s largest gathering of blues acts. Blues bands
and solo/duo acts from around the world compete in
the planet’s largest Battle of the Blues Bands. Beale
Street clubs, 527-2583, blues.org.
Jan. 25: Soup Sunday. Soups, breads, desserts,
and other delights from more than 50 area
restaurants benefit Youth Villages. 11a–2p,
FedExForum, 251-5000, soupsunday.org.
Jan. 29: AWA Banquet and Silent Auction.
Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Holly Kirby is
honored at the Association for Women Attorneys’
annual banquet. Silent auction benefits UofM Cecil
C. Humphreys School of Law. 11:30a, UofM Holiday
Inn, 844-4438, awamemphis.org.
Now Offering...
• International
& Domestic Beer
• Drink Mixers & Garnishes
• Beverage Accessories
& Party Supplies
• Gift Items & Bags
• Variety of Snacks & Ice
courtesy Memphis College of Art
Jan. 8–10: Elvis Birthday Celebration. Citywide
events include Graceland tours, free walk-up times
at The Meditation Garden, Elvis artifacts auction,
dance parties, movie screenings, and concerts. 3323322, elvis.com.
DOWNTOWN’S PREMIER DESTINATION
FOR FINE WINE AND SPIRITS
10A–11P MON–SAT
“Pile,” a Memphis College of Art exhibition
sculpted by Associate Professor of Studio Art
Leandra Urrutia, is on view Nov. 12–Jan. 4 at
Playhouse on the Square. Urrutia’s artwork
addresses discordant elements of intimacy,
including attraction, repulsion, and perseverance:
leandraurrutia.blogspot.com.
Jan. 30: Incognito Art Gala. Bid on what you love,
not who you know, with 100 of the Midsouth’s finest
artists presenting a collection of original works —
incognito. Hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and
ways to benefit MBG’s outreach and education
programs. 5:30–7:30p, Botanic Garden, 636-4131,
memphisbotanicgarden.com.
Jan. 30, Feb. 27: South Main Art Trolley Tour.
Stroll through the historic arts districts, as shops,
restaurants, and art galleries display unusual
merchandise, cuisines, and art. Every last Fri. 6–9p,
free. Main between Vance and St. Paul, 578-7262,
gosouthmain.com.
Jan. 31: Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks Exhibit
Unveiling. A permanent exhibit honors the life
and legacy of this civil rights icon and trail blazer
whose achievements made local and national
history. 2p, Central Library, 3030 Poplar, 415-2847,
memphislibrary.org.
Jan. 31: Mardi Gras Ball XII: Walking in
Memphis. Catch some beads, boogie to Mardi
Gras–themed music, revel in the crazy regalia, and
benefit Friends for Life. 7p, Minglewood Hall, 3312575, pegasusmemphis.com.
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17
SPECIAL EVENTS
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Why is the dung beetle nature’s original pooperscooper? Why might snail and slug slime provide
scientists with insight into treating cystic
fibrosis? Visit “Animal Grossology” at the Pink
Palace Museum, Jan. 24–Apr. 19, and experience
some of the stinkiest, slimiest, and downright
yuckiest creatures on earth.
Feb. 7: Polar Bear Plunge and Chili Cook-Off.
Brrr! Hundreds of plungers are freezin’ for a reason
to b-b-benefit Special Olympics. People’s choice chili
tasting, donut-eating contest, costume contest, and
awards. Spectators free. 10:30a–4p, Mud Island
River Park, 683-1271, specialolympicsmem.org.
Feb. 7–15: Memphis Open. Newly renamed, this
ATP World Tour 250 tennis tournament attracts
star players, with a 32-player singles draw and a
16-team doubles draw. Racquet Club of Memphis,
888-307-7981, memphisopen.com.
Feb. 21–22, Feb. 28–Mar. 1: Bowlin’ on the
River Bowl-A-Thon. Teams have a “ball” at
bowling alleys throughout the city to “make a
strike” for Junior Achievement. Sign up for a team:
507-2068, bowlathon.com.
Feb. 27: Krewes for Kids. A party with a purpose
celebrates Carnival Memphis by raising funds to
benefit children’s charities. 7p, Botanic Garden, 4582500, carnivalmemphis.org.
Feb. 28: Rock the Ribbon! Get your groove
on with Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster. Dress
“funky casual,” bid on the silent auction, indulge in
complimentary libations and appetizers, and dance,
dance, dance to benefit Susan G. Komen Memphis–
Midsouth. 7p–midnight, The Great Hall, 757-8686,
komenmemphis.org.
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
Cannon Center for the Performing Arts: 255
N. Main, 576-1200, box office 576-1269, 800-7260915, thecannoncenter.com. See Memphis Symphony
Orchestra listing and Cannon website for complete
schedule. Jan. 10: MSO: Tribute to Elvis: Birthday
Celebration, 7:30p, 537-2500, memphissymphony.org.
Jan. 25: Collage dance Collective: “Rise,” 2:30p.
The 16th Annual
FedExForum: 191 Beale, 205-1234, tickets: 800745-3000, fedexforum.com. See website for complete
events listing. Also see Memphis Grizzlies NBA and
University of Memphis Tigers Basketball. Feb. 13–14:
Monster Jam, monsterjam.com. Feb. 22: WWE’s FirstEver “Fast Lane” Pay-Per-View, 6:30p,
and 9th Annual
Memphis Grizzlies NBA: FedExForum, 205-1234,
grizzlies.com. Season runs Oct–Apr. Jan. 5: New York
Knicks, 7p. Jan. 11: Phoenix, 5p. Jan. 17: Portland,
7p. Jan. 19: Dallas, 4p. Jan. 21: Toronto, 7p. Jan. 24:
Philadelphia, 7p. Jan. 26: Orlando, 7p. Jan. 29: Denver,
7p. Jan. 31: Oklahoma City, 7p. Feb. 8: Atlanta, 5p.
Feb. 10: Brooklyn, 7p. Feb. 13–21: All-Star Break.
Feb. 27: Los Angeles Clippers, 7p.
Benefiting Special Olympics
Come join the fun at Mud Island River Park!!
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Metal Museum: 374 Metal Museum Dr., 774-6380,
metalmuseum.org. The only museum in the U.S.
dedicated exclusively to fine metalwork. See website
for class and demo times. Thru Jan. 4: Holiday Show
and Sale, one-of-a-kind, hand-forged works from
renowned metal artists across the country, Tue.–Sat.
10a–5p, Sun. noon–5p. Thru Mar. 1: Tributaries: Susie
Ganch, familiar forms stripped down to their underlying
molecular structure. Thru Mar. 1: “All That Glitters,”
celebrates 35 years of collecting fine metalwork.
Orpheum Theatre: 203 S. Main, 525-3000, 800-
982-2787, orpheum-memphis.com. “The South’s Finest
Theater.” Jan. 9: “An Evening with Elvis,” doublefeature movies “Jailhouse Rock” and “Viva Las Vegas,”
7p. Jan. 23: Family Series: “Dream Carver,” a bilingual
musical about thinking creatively, trying new things,
and embracing individuality, 6:30p. Feb. 3–Mar. 1:
Broadway: “The Lion King.” Mar. 6: “50 Shades! The
Musical Parody,” 8p 50shadesthemusical.com.
Pink Palace Museum: 3050 Central, 320-6362,
memphismuseums.org. Exhibits include Memphis
history, geology, and America’s first self-service
grocery store. Jan. 24–Apr. 19: “Animal Grossology,”
experience the stinkiest, slimiest, and downright
yuckiest creatures on earth.
Pink Palace Museum CTI 3D Giant Theater:
3050 Central, 636-2362, memphismuseums.org.
Exhibits include Memphis history, geology, and
America’s first self-service grocery store. Thru
Jan. 9: “Tornado Alley,” chase and photograph
some of the deadliest storms ever. Jan. 2–Mar. 6:
“Meerkats 3D,” the twists and turns of life in the
Kalahari Desert. “Jerusalem 3D,” the crossroads of
civilization and faith. “Flight of the Butterflies,” the
remarkable Monarch migration. Jan. 10–Nov. 13:
“Hidden Universe 3D,” an extraordinary journey to the
birthplace of stars and beyond.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music: 926
E. McLemore, 942-SOUL, staxmuseum.com. State-ofthe-art museum at the original site of Stax Records.
Thru June 30: “Soul: Memphis’s Original Sound
— Photographs by Thom Gilbert,” 80 portraits of
Memphis-related soul music artists.
Blind Bear Memphis
@blindbear901
JOIN IN
ymcamemphis.org
JANUARY
$
For 1.60
Join in January and save, as we celebrate our 160th birthday.
CELEBRATING 160 YEARS
19
ENTERTAINMENT & DINING GUIDE
Alcenia’s
317 N. Main • 523-0200
Aldo’s Pizza Pies
100 S. Main • 577-7743
Alfred’s On Beale
197 Beale • 525-3711
Alannah’s Breakfast Kafe
86 N. Main • 521-9393
ARCADE RESTAURANT
540 S. Main • 526-5757
arcaderestaurant.com
Memphis’s oldest cafe is on the trolley line in historic South Main arts
district. Glowing neon signs and 1920s
architecture transport to the past, but
pesto, feta, and walnut pizza bring
taste buds to the present. Country
ham, sweet-potato pancakes, hot
plate lunches, cheeseburgers and fries,
specialty sandwiches, pizzas. Familyowned for three generations, listed
as a historic landmark, and featured
in many movies. Private dining room.
7am–3pm daily.
AREPA & SALSA
662 Madison • 901-433-9980
arepaandsalsa.com
Bienvenido! The only authentically Venezuelan restaurant in Tennessee serves
made-from-scratch food, crafted from
old family recipes. Choose from traditional arepas stuffed with meat and
fresh vegetables, sweet-corn-pancake
cachapas, and tostones sandwiched
between plantains. The Venezuelan
hamburger is a unique specialty, along
with UFOs and the popular Gold Peak
sweet tea. Cold beer, hot times, and
love at first bite! Open Mon.–Thu.
11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11:30
a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. closed.
Automatic Slim’s
83 S. Second • 525-7948
B.B. King’s Blues Club
143 Beale • 524-5464
Bangkok Alley
121 Union • 522-2010
Bardog Tavern
73 Monroe • 275-8752
Beale Street Tap Room
168 Beale • 527-4392
Belle Diner
117 Union • 433-9851
The Bistro At Court Square
75 Jefferson • 522-2200
Bleu Restaurant & Lounge
221 S. Third • 334-5950
BLIND BEAR SPEAKEASY
119 S. Main • 901-417-8435
blindbearmemphis.com
Psst! Can you keep a secret? The Roaring ‘20s come alive, Prohibition style,
in the heart of Downtown. Restaurant
and cocktail lounge with modern
comforts and a stylish 1920s twist.
Hotsy-Totsy appetizers; The Real McCoy
20
entrees; late-night Hibernation Menu;
and the ever-popular Hung Over Like
a Bear Brunch. Giggle Water, juice list,
poker, and trivia. Check Facebook and
Twitter for weekend-night passwords!
21 & older. Mon.–Fri. 5 p.m.–3 a.m.,
Sat.–Sun. Noon-3 a.m.
THE BLUE MONKEY
513 S. Front • 901-527-6665
2012 Madison • 901-272-2583
bluemonkeymemphis.com
Swing into one of Memphis’s most
popular and legendary hangouts, with
the Midsouth’s finest European-style
tavern atmosphere for the 21 and
older crowd. Featuring “hot-wing
rolls” and everything from burgers to
prime rib. Full bar offers a fine selection of single-malt scotches, high-end
bourbons, and tequilas. Extensive list
of domestic and imported beers. Sip
into Wednesday Wine Night Downtown:
1/2-price wine (champagne excluded).
Open daily 11 a.m.–3 a.m.
Court House Deli
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Coyote Ugly Saloon
Hamburgers and More
Cozy Corner Restaurant
Happy Mexican
Denny’s
Hard Rock Cafe
DeJavu restaurant
Havana’s Pilon
Don Don’s Hotwings & Soul Food
Hooters
Dorothy Mae’s Cafe
HUEY’S DOWNTOWN
22 S. Main • 527-2253
326 Beale • 888-UGLY
745 N. Parkway • 527-9158
166 Union • 522-1304
51 S. Main • 505-1212
782 Washington • 521-9593
333 Beale • 523-2344
Double J Smokehouse & Saloon
124 G.E. Patterson • 335-0251
Dyer’s Hamburgers
205 Beale • 527-3937
Blue Note Bar & Grill
Earnestine & Hazel’s
Blue Plate Cafe
EIGHTY3
Bluefin
Evelyn and Olive
Blues City Cafe
Felicia Suzanne’s
Bluff City Coffee
Ferraro’s Pizzeria & Pub
Bogie’s Delicatessen
The 5 Spot
Bon Ton cafe
Flight Restaurant
The Brass Door
Flying Fish
Brinson’s Downtown
Flying Saucer
Cafe Keough
Flynn’s Restaurant and Bar
cafe pontotoc
Front Street Deli
The Cake Gallery Baketique
GRAWEMEYERS
341-345 Beale • 577-8387
113 Court Square South • 523-0332
135 S. Main • 528-1010
138 Beale • 526-3637
505 S. Main • 405-4399
80 Monroe • 525-6764
150 Monroe • 525-0883
152 Madison • 572-1813
341 Madison • 524-0104
12 S. Main • 509-2469
314 S. Main • 249-7955
164 Madison • 654-3425
Capriccio Grill
The Peabody Memphis • 149 Union
529-4199
Center For Southern Folklore
119 S. Main at Peabody Pl • 525-3655
Central BBQ
147 E. Butler • 672-7760
The CheeseCake Corner
113 G.E. Patterson • 525-2253
Chez Philippe
The Peabody Memphis
149 Union • 529-4188
City Market Groceries & Deli
66 S. Main • 729-6152
531 S. Main • 523-9754
83 Madison • 333-1224
630 Madison • 748-5422
80 Monroe • 523-0877
111 Jackson • 522-2033
531 S. Main • 523-9754
39 S. Main • 521-8005
105 S. Second • 522-8228
130 Peabody Place • 523-PINT
159 Beale • 523-1940
77 S. Front • 870-1522
520 S. Main • 901-800-1553
grawemeyers.com
German family recipes adapted to
American tastes at this popular gathering spot in the South Main Historic
Arts District. One of the city’s largest
German beer selections, expansive bar,
famous haunted piano, and housemade
Deutschland fare that includes salads
with German croutons, mouth-watering
family Reuben, and the owner’s greatgrandmother’s sauerbraten! Classic
favorites include German sausage and
sauerkraut, Gruyere spaetzle, schnitzel.
Vegetarian options. Sehr gut! Sun.–
Wed. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thu.–Fri. 10
a.m.–10 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
The Green Beetle
325 S. Main • 527-7337
310 S. Front • 527-4877
3 S. Main • 545-0048
385 S. Second • 529-9991
126 Beale (New Location!) • 529-0007
143 Madison • 527-2878
Peabody Place at Third • 523-9464
77 S. Second • 527-2700
www.hueyburger.com
Celebrating more than 43 years of
blues, brews, and burgers. Voted
“Best Burger in Memphis” since 1984.
Delicious sandwiches, salads, and
housemade soups. Shoot frill picks
into the ceiling, and write on the
walls! Live music every Sunday night,
8:30pm. Open Sun–Thu 11am–2am,
Fri–Sat 11am–3am (kitchen closes
one hour earlier). Additional locations:
1927 Madison, 4872 Poplar, 1771 N.
Germantown Pkwy, 2130 W. Poplar,
7825 Winchester, 7090 Malco Blvd. in
Southaven.
Itta Bena
145 S. Second • 578-3031
JERRY LEE LEWIS’ CAFE &
HONKY TONK
310 Beale • 901-654-5171
jerryleelewismemphis.com
A whole lotta shakin’ goes on inside
the only Jerry Lee Lewis–endorsed
restaurant in the country. Equal parts
raucous honky-tonk, courtyard lounge,
and secluded upstairs getaway,
Jerry Lee’s serves many of The Killer’s
favorite family recipes, from Grandma’s
Bumblebee Stew to the Chantilly Lace.
Live rockabilly, full bar, memorabilia at
every turn, and a flaming fountain —
all on world-famous Beale Street. What
a thrill! Sun.–Thu. 4 p.m.–3 a.m., Fri. 4
p.m.–5 a.m., Sat. noon–5 a.m.
JOHNNY G’S CREOLE KITCHEN
156 Beale • 528-1055
K-Jay’s BAR AND GRILL
88 N. Main • 570-8201
Kamida
160 Union • 525-5491
King’s Palace Cafe
162 Beale • 521-1851
KOOKY CANUCK
97 S. Second • 578-9800
kookycanuck.com
Locally owned in the heart of Downtown, award-winning Kooky provides
a fun, unique dining experience for all
ages! Comfortable lodge setting serves
“Americana” food with a Canadian
twist, including poutine, BBQ egg rolls,
Glenna’s meatloaf, catfish, prime rib,
veggie burgers, skillet desserts, and the
famous 4-lb Kookamonga burger —
free if eaten within one hour! Table-top
s’mores, kids’ menu, private parties.
Open daily 11am–1am; bar open until
2:30am.
Kudzu’s Bar & Grill
603 Monroe • 525-4924
Lenny’s Sub Shop
22 N. Front • 543-9230
153 S. Main • 529-4377
Little Cafe Eclectic
111 Harbor Town Sq. • 590-4645
THE LITTLE TEA SHOP
69 Monroe • 901-525-6000
facebook.com
Patrons have lunched at Memphis’s
oldest restaurant since 1918, savoring
the healthiest Southern home cooking around. Turnip greens, legendary
cornsticks, pot roast, vegetable plates,
salads, sandwiches, and homemade
cobbler — all made with fresh ingredients and spices, and served with love
at a cozy, memorabilia-packed experience. History and tradition are steeped
in a culinary icon that serves health,
hospitality, and forever friendships.
Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Local Gastropub
95 S. Main • 473-9573
Lunchbox Eats
288 S. Fourth • 526-0820
The Mad Earl
150 Madison • 249-2135
Madison Avenue Cafe
143 Madison • 730-1373
Main St. Cafe
97 N. Main • 672-8518
Maggiemoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery
125 S. Main • 522-1912
Magnolia Grille
250 N. Main • 527-7300
THE MAJESTIC GRILLE
145 S. Main • 522-8555
majesticgrille.com
Home of the “Unforgettable Sunday
Brunch” 11am–3pm. What began in
1913 as the Majestic Theatre is now
a 1940s-style bar and grill, with an
upscale, uniquely Memphis ambience
and great food at reasonable prices,
specializing in steaks, fresh seafood,
flatbread creations, and gourmet
burgers. Open daily at 11am. Kitchen
open late.
MARMALADE RESTAURANT
& LOUNGE
153 G.E. Patterson • 522-8800
Marmalade Restaurant believes
that sharing the South’s best-kept
eatery secrets is one of our major
contributions to Memphis’s population.
Marmalade’s food offers the taste of
home. This includes our grilled steaks
and pork chops, Southern fried catfish
and chicken, fresh garden vegetables,
seafood gumbo, cornbread, and home-
made peach cobbler. Full-service bar,
on-site parking, and music with R&B,
soul, and jazz DVDs. Facilities for group
meetings and dinners. Tue–Thu 6–9pm,
Fri–Sat 6pm–midnight.
MAX’S Sports Bar & Grill
115 G.E. Patterson • 528-8600
McEwen’s Memphis
120 Monroe • 527-7085
Mesquite Chop House
88 Union • 527-5337
Miss Cordelia’s Grocery
737 Harbor Bend in Harbor Town •
526-4772
MISS POLLY’S SOUL CITY
CAFE
154 Beale • 527-9060
misspollysmemphis.com
Soul City’s best breakfast served
anytime. Authentic soul food heats up
Beale Street! Fried chicken and waffles,
home-cooked vegetables like Mamma
made, and all the down-home trimmings that make soul food a Southern
tradition, all accompanied by soulful
music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s.
Open daily Mon.–Thu. 8 a.m.–11 p.m.,
Fri.–Sun. 7 a.m.–3 a.m.
Mollie Fontaine Lounge
679 Adams • 524-1886
Movie & Pizza Company
110 Harbor Town Sq. • 527-2233
Nacho’s
150 Jefferson • 522-4455
New York Pizza
45 S. Main • 310-4253
office@uptown cafe
594 N. Second • 522-1905
Onix Restaurant
412 S. Main • 552-4609
Oshi Burger Bar
94 S. Main • 341-2091
Paulette’s
50 Harbor Town • 260-3300
Peabody Deli & Desserts
& The Corner Bar
The Peabody Memphis • 149 Union
529-4000
Renee’s Sandwich Shop
Trolley Stop Market
Riverfront bar & Grill
Tug’s
202 G. E. Patterson • 525-2963
Beale Street Landing • 578-1516
Riverside Grill
694 Riverside • 527-3946
RIZZO’S DINER
492 S. Main • 901-523-2033
rizzosdiner.com
In South Main’s historic charm, this
family-owned treasure serves Southerninspired cuisine with a modern twist
by award-winning Chef Mike Patrick.
Fresh ingredients paired with culinary
creativity yields one-of-a-kind fare that
includes blackened catfish eggs benedict, cheese burger soup, lobster pronto
pup, chorizo meatloaf, and smoked
duck tamale pie. White tablecloths,
cotton napkins, 100-year-old building.
Sit a spell, break bread, and enjoy the
company of others. Lunch: Tue.–Fri. 11
a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner: Mon.–Thu. 5–10
p.m., Fri.–Sat. 5–11 p.m.; Brunch: Sat.
11 a.m.–2 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Rum Boogie Cafe
182 Beale • 528-0150
Rumba Room
303 S. Main • 523-0020
Russwood Park Sports Bar & Grill
160 Union • 525-5491
Saigon Le
51 N. Cleveland • 276-5326
Sam’s Hamburgers and More
94 N. Main • 543-9977
183 Beale • 522-9596
100 Peabody Place • 435-6915
668 Union • 521-9778
361 S. Main • 526-0388
Spindini
383 S. Main • 578-2767
109 N. Main • 521-4674
WESTY’S
346 N. Main • 543-3278
westysmemphis.com
We’re the Downtown restaurant with
enough ambience that movies such as
The Firm, The Rainmaker, and 21 Grams
chose to film here. “Break the chain”
and eat locally. We’ve served Memphis
incredible food since 1983, so bring
family and friends to the Pinch District
and explore our extensive, diverse
menu. Make sure to finish your meal
with our world-famous hot fudge pie!
Open daily 10–3am year-round; delivery 11am–2pm and 5pm–2am.
209 Beale • 578-5650
99 N. Main, Ste 101 • 503-9842
113 S. Main • 523-2065
Hungry to see your
restaurant profiled?
201 S. Third • 334-5940
85 N. Main • 543-3782
110 Auction • 521-9753
122 Gayoso • 207-1053
TGI Friday’s
Rendezvous
TJ Mulligan’s
Call 525-7118, ext. 817
Full restaurant profiles are paid
advertising. For information on
Tamp & tap
Qahwa Coffee Bar
52 S. Second • 523-2746
Willie Moore’s Family Restaurant
40 W. Huling • 521-0907
Texas de Brazil
109 N. Main • 800-2227
79 Madison • 333-1925
THE Spaghetti Warehouse
Purple Haze
140 Lt. George W. Lee • 577-1139
Twilight Sky Terrace
Zac’s Cafe
South of Beale
Subway Sandwiches & Salads
175 Peabody Place at Third
• 644-2021
310 Beale • 473-8144
twelvebarbeale.com
Named for a common chord progression of the blues, this speakeasy-type
supper club sits quietly above the
hubbub of Beale Street, offering a
private, hidden, elegant experience that
lasts into the wee hours of morning.
Enjoy our classic cocktails, fine dining,
private rooms and balconies. Come celebrate with us. Above Jerry Lee Lewis
Cafe & Honky Tonk.
Yao’s China Bistro
Sky Grille
Pig on Beale
Pizza italia
TWELVE BAR
Wrapzody Gourmet Wrapz
The Silly Goose
Starbucks
167 Beale • 529-1544
50 Harbor Town Sq • 260-3344
Wet Willies
Silky O’Sullivan’s
Pearl’s Oyster House
299 S. Main • 522-9070
704 Madison • 526-1361
185 Union • 523-8500
how to get your profile in our
Restaurant Guide,
call 901-525-7118 or email
sales@memphisdowntowner.com.
362 N. Main • 523-1453
21
SO IT GOES
Driving
Into a
New Year
I
was sitting at a red light in town the other day
when the windows of my car started rattling,
and strange, loud noises surrounded me. At first
I thought that the New Madrid Fault had let loose
again and that I had just wasted the last hour of
my life raking leaves.
Then I wondered if maybe I was to be the victim of
an alien abduction. Don’t roll your eyes; you know
it happens all the time, according to the tabloids.
So I sat there, waiting to be abducted, while
silently thanking my sainted mother for her good
advice concerning the wearing of clean underwear
in case of car accidents — or, in this case, UFO
encounters.
But then I noticed the car next to me. The loud
noises, rattling, and vibrations were coming
from it. The driver, obviously a good citizen, was
sharing what passes for music these days with the
rest of us. His radio was turned all the way up, his
window was rolled all the way down, and we were
all being treated to the dulcet tones of Lil Wayne.
Chris Strain
by Raymond L. Atkins
was a 10-year-old, 1958 MG Roadster. It cost
$100, and since I didn’t have $100, I went in with
two friends. Every third week, I got to drive. At
this point, you may be thinking that a 1958 MG
Roadster is a pretty upscale ride for three young
hayseeds, so let me put the car into perspective
for you.
Lil Wayne is my
favorite rapper, by the
way, but that is kind
of like saying that
influenza is my favorite
infectious disease.
Lil Wayne is my favorite rapper, by the way, but
that is kind of like saying that influenza is my
favorite infectious disease.
But what I really want to talk about is the car he
was driving and not what we were all listening
to. The driver was young — maybe 16 or 17 —
but he was driving an exceptional car. It was a
late-model, expensive-looking vehicle in very
good condition. I don’t know the make and model,
because newer cars all sort of look the same to
me these days, but it had to have cost someone a
bundle.
And that’s what I want to talk about.
Back in my day, we didn’t drive nice cars. Heck,
our parents didn’t drive nice cars. My first car
22
push the car to get us rolling, the driver would
pop the clutch, and the High Man would hop up
onto his perch before the car got away.
We didn’t know the car’s original color, but it was
a rusty brown the day we bought it. We sanded
it down with 80-grit sandpaper, and we filled all
of the rust holes with Quikrete mortar mix, which
was much cheaper than Bondo. The extra weight
helped the handling in tight curves. Then we
carefully and lovingly brush-painted the Roadster
with three coats of red barn paint.
As an aside, I have been a pretty good painter
my entire adult life, and I owe it all to the skills I
acquired while cutting in around the headlights
and rusty chrome of a 1958 MG Roadster. It takes
a steady hand and a keen eye for fine work like
that.
The car didn’t have a radio, but those were the
glory days of the eight-track tape player, and we
had not one, but two of them wired to a selection
of second-hand speakers scattered throughout the
car. Sometimes we would play the same two tapes
at once, and the echo effect was something that
had to be experienced to be believed.
I discovered the car in Rifle McMahan’s barn,
where it had apparently been moldering under a
tarp since sometime around 1960. Miraculously,
it still ran, but over the years, the rats and snakes
had eaten the interior. So Rifle threw in two
wooden crates for the driver and passenger to sit
on, and the third man got to ride shotgun up on
the back.
We drove that car for nearly six months until the
bleak day that a Tennessee state trooper stopped
us for no reason at all and took our car away from
us. Oh, he said it was because we had no license
plates, no insurance, no driver’s licenses, no seats,
and no sense, but as we were walking home, we
all agreed that he probably just wanted our little
car for his very own.
The MG’s starter didn’t work, so the seating
arrangement worked well when it came time to
fire the little Roadster up. The High Man, as we
called whoever was sitting up on the back, would
Maybe if we had been playing some Lil Wayne on
the eight tracks, the trooper would have left us
alone.
23
24

Publication

Transcription

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