To Beale or Not to Beale

The latest trek took the honors inquiry class to Beale Street and S. Main Street during ‘Trolley Night.” This is a time when the trolleys take patrons up and down Main St. to shop and eat and enjoy open art exhibits. While most of the group headed off to Beale Street I decided to go down S. Main. I never really was down S. Main on a Friday night. The only time I have spent in that neighborhood was at the Civil Rights Museum. I was surprised at how many well dressed, classy looking people there are in Memphis. They all seem to congregate in that area during the weekends. Which brings up the question, where have I been spending my nights?

We visited art gallery after art gallery enjoying the different types of paintings and sculptures, a few of which I did not care for too much for. We also visited the new Hyde Gallery in the Nesin Graduate School, part of the Memphis College of Art, which is very nice. The art on the other hand was rather ordinary. Some of the work that I did find interesting just happened to be by Alex Paulus, my art instructor at Southwest. Paulus was showing his work in an exhibit next door also. We met with him there and discussed his interesting pieces with him. His work is of human bodies with animal heads, done with plaster and acrylic on plywood. My favorite was a zebra-human lounging with its arms behind its head.

We did not visit Beale that night. I have been on Beale (sober) and am not amused. I prefer the refined things in life, and quiet, and room to move. Wine or a good import or microbrew will work good for me, not pounding $1.00 MGD’s all night long. I only drank on Beale once, and it was when I first moved to Memphis five years ago. And even then I only had one cheap beer. I will admit the music on Beale is great; we enjoy going to B. B. King’s during the day when family is in town and stopping in at A. Schwabs to show everyone the world’s largest pair of jeans. I guess I am just too old to party with the college crowd, and I thank the heavens everyday that those years of being young and dumb have passed me by.

I am sure Lyndsey Roland had an enjoyable time on Beale. It was her first time on Beale Street, and she lived in Memphis all her life. She was there doing research for her class project and not pounding beers with the college crowd, or was she?

So whether you like to chug cheap beer and listen to the blues or sip expensive wine and listen to jazz, Memphis has a place for everyone to have a fun on Friday night. After the downtown visit to S. Main Street, Sarah and I headed to Mollie Fontaine’s Lounge on Adams Avenue where we met up with Doug and Erin to enjoy some piano music by the wonderful Diane Price. Thanks go out to Doug, who was an awesome host and tour guide on our trek and for introducing us to such great little places in Memphis like Molly Fontaine’s Lounge and the Local Gastropub.

Runaway Train, Never Going Back...Maybe

Though I am a little late (okay, a LOT late), I wanted to include my feedback on the movie Mystery Train in our blog. One of the questions in our study guide for Mystery Train is whether or not the central image, the train, is working symbolically. I read a few critic's analyses of the movie and their view that the train is nothing more than yet another element tying the three stories together. On the contrary, I believe that it holds much greater significance than that. Trains have historically been viewed as gateways, runaways, and means of escape. In the Old West, trains were viewed as the gateways to the West, a means of a new start and hopefully better prospects. In silent movies, an out-of-control train narrowly misses running over a damsel in distress tied with rope to the tracks. Nineties music such as the popular lyrics from Soul Asylum's "Runaway Train" even depicted trains as an analogy of helplessness and a desire for escape. The train that appears in each of the three stories in Mystery Train is no different. In the "Far From Yokohama" scene, the young Japanese man and woman take a train into Memphis on a voyage of discovery and exploration. Later that same night, the young man stands at the window in an almost melancholy stupor watching the train next to the hotel running along the tracks. In the "A Ghost" scene, the young woman who boards with the stranded Italian woman mirrors this by staring at the same train from a different vantage point. Her situation is entirely different though. She is attempting an escape from her boyfriend. In the "Lost in Space" scene, her boyfriend and his companions are attempting an escape after shooting a store clerk when the train again comes into the picture. In the final scene, the train is taking the young Japanese couple back towards home and takes the young woman from "A Ghost" further away in her escape. In each of the three scenes, the train may be a background fixture instead of in the forefront; however, this does not diminish the impact that it has on the audience. It delivers an insight into what is driving and motiviating each of the characters, what has utlimately brought them to this point and what will eventually set them free. The young Japanese couple is driven by discovery and exploration into the West. The young lady in "The Ghost" is driven by a need to escape a life that is suffocating her, making her a virtual ghost in her world. The young men in "Lost in Space" are out of control, running away and out of touch with reality. In each of these scenes, the human characteristics they portray parallel the traits given to trains throughout creative history, thus making the train a very symbollic fixture in the movie.

Whining Again!

Well for those of you who believe this blog is saved in "NEVER NEVER LAND," please share the secret with me. I am pitifully surrounded by short piles of hand scribbled pages as I feverishly copy "auto-saved" drafts from one old laptop to a new desktop computer. I am convinced I am genetically driven to this state of mass disorganization. Since, I can't find the 'where-with-all' to not edit some of the previous due blog posts, I wanted to be certain that I wish for all of you going to the conference in Little Rock a wonderful time, exciting adventure, and safe travel!

One Needs Wine to Whine...about Mystery Train

After missing class and the viewing of Mystery Train with the group, I was left to my own devices to get a copy and view it. After I spoke with Doug, who had a copy of the film from Black Lodge Video, I ventured there to get their other copy. The film I got was in French, now my French isn't half bad so I figured, "what-the hell!" I get home, to the new little place, only to discover I can't find an independent DVD player! We are hooked-up wireless with everything and the DVD, stereo, I-Dock thing is only set to the new high-definition settings; and true to course, the only thing I know is that I can't operate it! No problem, I'll watch it on my computer....wrong, my computer will not play it because I do not have "real-world video." Well, a few days go by and I make arrangements to view it at a friend's. It just so happens that I'm going to a study group at the Central Library for another class that next Sunday and I'd forgotten that they have a huge video library, so I checked and yes...they had it with English sub-titles, needless to say, I was thrilled. Off I go to watch my video only to discover that I've seen this film! I saw this film on a giant screen one summer night in the parking lot of Studio on the Square. I wasn't impressed with it then, and I'm not anymore thrilled after seeing it a second time. It's a cult film, kind of reminds me of Rocky-Horror Picture Show. It's the kind of film that kids watch over and over again till they know all the words and dress like the characters. It's one redeeming quality is the music and spot-shots of historic Memphis. I am simply not artistic enough to find its true value.

Fine Whines Take Time

I hope this day finds everyone happy and healthy. I am certainly looking forward to our Beale Street Trek tonight. I need to back up a bit and apologize for not getting my hand around this blog sooner. My computer skills are pitiful. I am never signing out of this blog, too fearful I'll loose it!

My class project BUILDING A COMMUNITY PET WATCH COOPERATIVE is shaping up. I have been fortunate to have the help of other pet lovers. There is a babysitting cooperative is Midtown that has provided great guidance and the local churches have placed my "add" in their Sunday bulletins. We now live in the Cooper-Young area and they do have a Lost-pet, Found-pet service notification for the community residents who belong to the neighborhood association. I will be working along with them to develop this cooperative. It is my goal to create and provide a power point presentation that can be used as a demonstration tool not just for my neighborhood but for all neighborhoods who wish to try a cooperative.

I was saddened to learn that the Center for Neighborhoods had been shuttered due to budget cuts. It was this great place down on 7th street below Adams, it had everything neighborhood. This simply demonstrates how necessary each of us need to contribute to our place, our neighborhood, our community. I am having fun with this and look forward to sharing this with the class.

Family Ties That Bind and Gag

This is the title of a book by Erma Bombeck that takes a comedic look inside a "normal" family. I thought about this book Friday night while watching August: Osage County. The play was a tragicomedy based on a completely dysfunctional family. Talking to people during and after the play, it was obvious that there was a little bit of all of us in the characters onstage. Most everyone has skeletons in the closet, be it an alcoholic uncle, a reclusive cousin, or a borderline psychotic niece. It's an eye opener when you see these traits portrayed to an extreme. Erma Bombeck takes it to a laughable place describing toddlers throwing things in the toilet, sisters who have to do the one up thing, and husbands who vegetate in front of the TV for so long the family decorates him for Christmas. The play takes it to the other extreme with a drug addicted mother, alcoholic father, and daughters who do their best to escape the situtations at home. Watching the interaction between the characters was funny in a dark way. They spent a lot of time screaming profanity at each other, pulling hair, and bringing out the secrets in a public way. Although the story is a tragedy, the writing is absolutely hilarious. The script is well written, without being overdone and the actors were able to convey the emotions in an amazing manner. I consider myself lucky to have seen this production and will be taking my mom and sister-in-law to see it before it closes.

Our Blog

Hey, Class--

I'm really following our blog with interest.  Many of you -- and you know who you are -- are consistently writing some very interesting stuff.  But, uh. ....others aren't doing so well.  We're past the midterm now, and obviously some of us aren't going to get as strong as grades as others when I look at blog contributions.  But if your contributions have been scanty, now would be a good time to really begin contributing faithfully.  And for those of you who are really behind, keep in mind that I'll be impressed if I can see that you've maybe done some extra blogs to at least PARTIALLY make up for past lapses.

For those of you who HAVE lapses, think of cool stuff you can do:  whenever you see, do, experience anything new in Memphis, write about it.  New restaurant?  New cultural activity?  New observations?  This is a good place to share that.

I notice, too, that not many of us are responding to what your fellow students are saying.  Please do feel free do to so.

Doug

In Polite Company

This week’s venture was to the city council meeting at city hall in downtown Memphis. I am not going to retell every little thing that happened, because I don’t want to bore anyone. Instead, I will say what I found most interesting and what I liked about the experience. When we first walked through the building’s front doors it reminded me of what the 1950’s or 60’s would have been like minus the cigarette smoke; everything in City Hall’s lobby is square with sharp edges and made of marble, granite, and wood. When entering the room the meeting was held in, we walked down a sloped floor to black leather chairs.

There was a group of cheerleaders in front of us from the Memphis All-Stars cheering squad, they were the first to be introduced and I thought it was nice to see the children being recognized for their accomplishments. The cheerleaders won awards in different age divisions for hip hop dance, and their parents and the city council seemed very proud of them. They were asked to stand and received a mix of a standing and sitting ovation. I admit I did not stand up but did clap. The rest of the meeting was almost all business and unanimous affirmative votes except for the end which turned into a heated discussion over a matter of temporary employment by the city. The city was trying to turn some 900 plus jobs from temporary into permanent part-time employment. The item eventually passed. Basically, everything that the one gentleman was saying was all in vain because he failed to persuade anyone to vote “no” along with his lone vote.

Even though parts of the meeting seemed a little unplanned, I thought that it was handled professionally enough and I do find it important to go to the city council meetings. When I was more actively involved with my electrical job, I attended my union meetings which followed parliamentary procedure similar to the city council meeting. I am almost certain they followed Robert’s Rules of Order, which are the same rules used in most open meetings, whether they be public or private. I probably will not attend another meeting at city hall unless I am involved in an issue or have an issue to be resolved, but I do plan on attending my neighborhood meetings and possible running for office or board of directors once I become an established member of my community. Knowing my neighborhood and neighbors is a priority to me. It gives me an awareness of what current and future events are happening or going to take place in my area. It also allows me to voice my opinion in a legitimate forum; one thing I have always said is, do not complain about issues or policies if you did not vote for them whether they be private, local, or national.

Hiking and Art

On Saturday, we ventured onto the Old Forest Trail in Overton Park. The guide was very knowledgeable and she had some great stories about the trees, foliage and wildlife in the area. The hike was approximately 1.5 miles and was a very enjoyable walk. The group did not race down the paths and everyone seemed genuinely interested in the tour. I would like to return at the end of the month and maybe again in April to see how much the forest changes.
After the hike, we had a lovely brunch at the Brushmark in the Brook's Museum. We learned that there is a fancy french word for a small dill pickle. I had a wonderful corned beef hash and eggs that became the topic of a few photos (the presentation was pretty!) After brunch, we were able to explore three fabulous art exhibits. The first was (Extra)Ordinary: The Story of Documentary Photography and the American South, that dealt with the socioeconomic and cultural life in the South during the late 30's and early 40's. Some of the photos were heart wrenching and there was a wonderful snapshot of Front St. from right here in Memphis. The photos were taken by artists such as Dorthea Lange and Russell Lee and painted a very vivid picture of the South during this era.
The second exhibit was Deep Impressions: Willie Cole Works on Paper. Some of his art was absolutely breathtaking. He uses everyday items such as irons, high heeled shoes, and hair dryers to create wonderful works. One of the most intriguing pieces was a mosaic he did that represented a lace table cloth like the one's his grandmother used to iron. The way he is able to make these pieces come together was fascinating. I highly recommend this exhibit to art lovers.
The third and final exhibit was called Face the Lens: Art for Social Change. The students at local schools were given cameras and asked to photograph things in the area that need to be changed. Some of these photos are very emotional and the stories behind them are amazing. There are quite a few abandoned houses and litter photos. The 20 or so photos in the exhibit are well worth seeing and taking the time to read about.
I hope to take my husband and mom to the hike and the museum and be able to share this experience with them both.

When Nature Calls

Did you know there is an old forest in the middle of Memphis? I, for one, did not. Yesterday the inquiry class was told to go take a hike and we said, “sure!” The Old Forest tour happens only twice a month-every second Saturday and every last Sunday. I had a really nice time, the tour was fantastic, and the guide knew what she was talking about. I will be back next month for the tour when the flowers are in full bloom and the trees are creating a canopy with their leaves.

I lived in Midtown for a year within walking distance of the park and I never ventured into the forest. My reason for never going into the deep wooded area was fear; there was a lot of bad stuff going on in and around my neighborhood at the time and I did not like leaving my yard let alone venturing into Overton Park. I do not like stress, and Memphis stresses me out. I felt good in the company of a large group, but to venture into that part of the park alone without a trusty sidearm, I would have to be crazier than the crazies I am watching out for.

In my time living in Midtown, there had been a major homicide (which made national news) involving several adults and young children only two miles from my house, a drunk next-door neighbor shooting a Desert Eagle 45 at his friend at 2:00 AM, and numerous people coming to my house trying to get some easy money. These sorts of experiences may be some of the reasons that Forbes Magazine named Memphis the most dangerous city last October.

Do not take me wrong, Memphis is a wonderful place and I have grown to like it, but when given a first impression like mine it must create curiosity as to why I stayed. I did stay, but not in Midtown. I moved to Cordova three years ago and my wife and I love it. Our neighbors are great, the neighborhood is well lit, and one does not need to worry about walking at night. We also have a great place for hiking, bicycling, and many other outdoor adventures in nearby Shelby Farms. My wife and I enjoy taking our dog there. Sarah and I enjoy smelling the fresh air while Pepper enjoys smelling the fresh other stuff. There are outdoor spaces available to all Memphians, including the Wolf River, the Green Line, and all the public parks, so if you are bored and sick of sitting in the house try getting out and getting a little dirty.

My Inquiry Project Blog: Scene 23 Take 2

Due to some very strict rules I needed to delete my old blog page and start a new. This blog page is going to discuss my work as a volunteer in general. It will only discuss feelings I had during my time volunteering and how it affects me physically, and emotionally. This blog will include links to volunteer organization available in Memphis. My blog page is under construction, and I will finish it this week. Please take a look now and feel free to visit often and comment on my updates. Thank you.

http://mymemphisvolunteeringproject.blogspot.com/

The Paradox of Place

I have learned a lot about Memphis in Wanda Rushing's book. I will admit that I did find the reading a bit dry and some of the information was so intense I had to read it twice to understand where she was going with it. The book has made me more interested in the city and the history behind it. I am doing an honor's contract on the yellow fever epidemic that is leading me to Elmwood Cemetery. I plan on investigating more about the one day Civil War battle that happened here. I want to learn more about the city itself and the people who founded it.
The book has pushed to me to be more curious about Memphis. I want to find out how the city felt in the aftermath of the Martin Luther King, Jr. assassination and what propelled them forward. All in all, the book was interesting and taught me to look at Memphis in a different light. I also want to find out how to become a Boll Weevil...LOL.
I am a history buff and I enjoy learning about the Civil War era, so the sections of the book on this part of the city were especially intriguing. I know a lot about the Civil War in relation to the East Coast, but haven't spent much time studying this side of the states. I hope to get to Shiloh, Ft. Pillow, and Vicksburg this summer to tour the battlefields. I think this will give me a greater understanding of what happened on this side of the country during this era.
Reading this book gave me a greater insight into why Memphis is the way it is today. Some of it is good, some bad and some is that gray area in-between. This class has opened my eyes to different views of the city and it is neat to discuss the book in class and see the opinions that my classmates have about the city we all call home.

Applied Learning

In the movie Pee Wee’s Big Adventure,  there is a scene when Pee Wee has a meeting about his missing bicycle. Throughout the scene Pee Wee introduces fact after fact until someone finally speaks up, and tells Pee Wee that he has been going on for three hours and yet no one knows what the meeting is all about. The book Memphis and the Paradox of Place: Globalization in the American South by Wanda Rushing first reminded me of this scene because it contains so much information that I did not know what to do with it all or where Rushing was going with everything. Then one day it occurred to me that my mind was filled with the information contained in the book, as if gigabytes of data were instantaneously downloaded into my grey-matter hard drive. I am now a walking encyclopedia on many aspects of Memphis, from the history of Beale St. to the Kemet Jubilee and Carnival Memphis. I can now hold a conversation on local historical events or just understand what others are discussing.

This morning my wife, Sarah, and I were in line for the estate sale at the former home of Shelby Foote, published U.S. Civil War historian and resident of Midtown, and with over an hour to wait in line for the sale to commence we could not help but listen to the conversation going on in front of us. The small group was discussing local history, Foote and the Civil War, and Nathan Bedford Forrest. It was interesting to hear what these biased individuals had to say about Forrest, especially after I read what Rushing had written. I wanted to chime in and let them in on the facts, but I was outnumbered four to one, so I just stood and listened to the remarks they made. I listened to their excuses about why the statue should remain where it is, and how if the city decided to remove it, the one “southern gentleman” remarked how he would like it on his land along with the remains of Nathan and Mary Forrest. I think I made a mighty good choice in keeping my mouth shut. To pass the time, Sarah and I finished our waiting with a discussion on what I read in the final pages of Memphis and the Paradox of Place. We talked about Carnival Memphis and the Kemet Jubilee; how unique the festivals were, and how the Carnival Memphis balls are aimed at commerce locally, nationally, and internationally. Our conversation was put on hold when the doors to Foote’s home opened and the line moved inward. We went inside and enjoyed seeing where Foote spent his life and time writing. We bought some of his effects including some Civil War artifacts, a duck decoy, and I got myself a William Faulkner first edition of The Town. We finished our morning with breakfast at IHOP (not the one on Union) and our discussion on issues of racism, local politics, and Memphis’ future. Sarah enjoyed our conversations and remarked on how we need to talk about these sort of topics more often.

I must admit that this book was not appealing to me when I started reading it, but I will honestly say that now I believe that this must be one of the most informative books ever written on Memphis. It does not matter where I am or where I call home, Memphis and the Paradox of Place: Globalization in the American South will always be found there.