Ice-cold margarita tastings Festive beats by DJ Zetta Local eats & street bites Vote for Memphis’ Best Margarita!
THE fly-by
MEM ernet
Memphis on the internet.
RIVERBEAT
Another huge Riverbeat rocked the Mississippi last weekend. Good vibes prevailed. Dave Matthews and St. Vincent closed the weekend with a cover of Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House.”
TRUMP & LEE
“I had a very good conversation with Governor Bill Lee, of Tennessee, this morning, wherein he stated that he would work hard to correct the unconstitutional aw in the Congressional Maps of the Great State of Tennessee.”
{WEEK THAT WAS
By Flyer staff
Questions, Answers + Attitude
Edited by Toby Sells
xAI, Bad Air, & No
Kings Silence
Company “committed” to water plant, smog gets worse, and police mum on protest response.
WASTEWATER PLANT
SpaceX is “committed” to building the wastewater treatment facility for its Memphis supercomputer, according to a Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) leader.
e company is now the parent company of xAI, Elon Musk’s Memphis arti cial intelligence company.
e company had long promised to build a wastewater recycling facility here to cool its massive data center in southeast Memphis, instead of using the city’s pristine drinking water.
At the beginning of April, however, the company announced that it still planned to build the plant but was “prioritizing … more immediate projects at the site” and would use the Memphis Sand Aquifer water for the foreseeable future.
e city’s air quality got worse for the third year in a row, according to the American Lung Association.
NO KINGS SILENCE
Lee did just what the president ordered. Right a er the SCOTUS ended the Voting Rights Act, Lee called a special session of the Tennessee General Assembly to redraw district lines here.
BART BENSON
Memphis folk hero e Trash
Man (TTM) discovered a new kind of litter last week.
Bart
Benson Lawn Care stu ed a yer in a plastic bag and weighed it down with a small rock. at way, they could throw the packages onto lawns, sidewalks, and and roads. Which they did. TTM found dozens of them. Hey, Bart Benson: Stop.
MLGW president and CEO Doug McGowen told Memphis City Council members last week that he was “cautiously optimistic” that the water plant plan was still in the works. e projected cost, he said, had ballooned from $80 million to around $200 million. But infrastructure for the facility has already been laid, he said.
McGowen said he has reached out to the company for a meeting with he and Memphis Mayor Paul Young about the facility. He expected it to happen in the next week or two.
McGowen said the original forecast was to open the facility in 2027. But he did not have any signed contract to make the proposal rm.
“I think it’s important for the community to hear that you have actually talked to people and they have given you that commitment,” said council member Dr. Je Warren.
MEMPHIS AIR GETS AN F
Memphis’ air quality got worse over the last year, according to the American Lung Association (ALA).
Shelby County posted an “F” grade for ozone smog, which pushed the Memphis metro from the 32nd-worst in the nation to 27th-worst. For comparison, Nashville ranked 66th-worst in the country.
is marks the third straight year of worsening smog conditions in the Memphis metro area in the ALA’s “State of the Air” report.
e Memphis Police Department (MPD) did not address concerns surrounding the No Kings Protest during the Memphis City Council’s public committee meeting, despite requests from council members.
Council member Jerri Green requested that MPD Chief C.J. Davis appear in front of the council to answer No Kings Day protester demands during the regular meeting of the council on April 14th.
is request was made a er community groups and advocates sent a letter in the wake of the incident demanding the release of body-worn camera footage, public identi cation of every o cer present, and more a er they said MPD “escalated to violence” during the protest on March 28th.
However, the request for Davis to speak was mysteriously removed from the council’s agenda. Davis appeared before the council for a monthly crime update, but did not go into detail about the protest.
TOWNSEND OUT AT CHAMBER
e Greater Memphis Chamber announced last week that Ted Townsend will step down as CEO.
Townsend was voted in as president and CEO of the Chamber in 2022. In his term, the Chamber facilitated the quick and controversial decision to bring xAI to Memphis. Townsend’s latest annual salary was $671,801 with $49,812 in bene ts.
Visit the News Blog at memphis yer.com for fuller versions of these stories and more local news.
PHOTO: TJMEYER | UNSPLASH
‘The
Gall’
{
CITY REPORTER
By Toby Sells
Greater Memphis Chamber absence at public meetings highlights tension between the nonpro t and the city it serves.
Memphis City Council members were “surprised at the gall” of the Greater Memphis Chamber in not attending a committee meeting Tuesday.
Both the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Black Chamber of Memphis were asked to testify before the council’s Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology Committee Tuesday. Both were asked to give “a comprehensive analysis of local economic activity,” which included business openings and closings.
Only the Black Chamber showed up. is drew the ire of two council members — Michalyn Easter- omas and Yolanda Cooper-Sutton.
An email obtained by the Flyer shows that the Greater Memphis Chamber did not con rm the date for the hearing but was listed as a presenter. A similar situation played out recently at the Shelby County Commission, the email says.
“On a few recent occasions, our team has been placed on the
agendas of the Memphis City Council and/or Shelby County Commission committee sessions without our prior con rmation of attendance,” said Bobby White, the Chamber’s Chief Government A airs O cer, in the email to Memphis City Council chairwoman Jana Swearengen-Washington. “In at least three instances, we were listed as presenters despite never having con rmed our participation — and were subsequently noted as absent, with commentary that we found both unfair and inconsistent with standard professional practice.”
Swearengen-Washington apologized for the mixup and regretted “that it created an unfair impression and any inconvenience to you and your sta .”
e Greater Memphis Chamber is a private nonpro t not directly funded by taxpayers. e group is not mandated to give updates on their activities other than to local governments.
Still, the group’s absence drew the
IMAGE: GREATER MEMPHIS CHAMBER Agency leaders say they never con rmed the meetings.
“With all of the impact they have on our city, it’s kind of disappointing to not have them here to report on anything.”
attention of Cooper-Sutton.
“ e Chamber of Commerce has a big footprint in our city and this is not the rst request that has been asked of them to show up and they haven’t,”
she said.
Cooper-Sutton said the group has also failed to show up “across the street,” meaning at the chambers of the Shelby County commission.
“I want to echo my co-council lady Cooper-Sutton,” said council member Easter- omas, “just sharing the surprise and the gall of the missing Chamber that’s [not] here. With all of the impact they have on our city, it’s kind of disappointing to not have them here to report on anything.
“It may have been that they didn’t con rm or that they didn’t know.”
As far as taxpayer money goes, a look at the Chamber’s most recent tax form does show $50,000 in “council funding.” But the document does not provide enough detail to know if that means the Memphis City Council or something else. at same tax form shows the latest salary of Chamber president and CEO Ted Townsend to be $671,801 with $49,812 in bene ts. He recently announced his imminent departure.
Diversify Globally
Know the benefits of investing across world markets.
A
lthough many investors understand the importance of diversification, the average investor’s portfolio is 80 percent allocated to domestic opportunities. When you consider that the United States represents approximately 65 percent of the global equity market by capitalization, this home-country bias means you could be missing out on more than a third of the world’s investment opportunities if you’re not participating in global markets. Global investment diversification refers to the strategy of spreading out investment capital across different countries, regions, and industries to reduce reliance on a single market. Investing in both developed and emerging markets can help reduce your portfolio’s risk, mitigate the impact of localized economic downturns, and enhance your long-term return potential. Let’s consider each of these benefits to your portfolio in more detail.
1: Potentially enhanced long-term returns
Investing in multiple countries across various market capitalizations offers an opportunity to gain access to growth opportunities not available in the U.S.
While they come with additional risks and volatility, emerging markets such as India, China, and Brazil have a higher potential for rapid growth compared to other, more developed markets. Additionally, international markets have different distribution across sectors that may be underweight in the domestic market. Over time, investing in international economies at various market capitalizations can lead to enhanced return potential versus a portfolio that’s heavily weighted in U.S. stocks.
2: Short-term risk mitigation
Global diversification can help protect your portfolio from geopolitical events that occur in one specific region. It also provides opportunities to continue growing your investment portfolio during downturns in U.S. markets. Because different markets perform differently at different times, a globally diversified portfolio can reduce the impact of a single market on your overall returns.
An example of diversifying across countries and different company sizes is the lost decade from 2000 to 2009, when the S&P 500 (the index of the 500 largest U.S. companies) had annualized returns of -0.95 percent. Investors who were only concentrated in large companies in the U.S. would
have seen their portfolio stagnate over this period, but those who were diversified in international markets across companies of various sizes were able to see higher international returns.
3: Reduced long-term volatility
Different geographic markets often perform differently and experience different economic cycles. Investing in a diversified international portfolio can help reduce volatility and smooth out your long-term returns, because strong performance in one region can help offset underperformance in other regions.
4: Protection from currency fluctuations
Diversification can provide protection from currency fluctuations by spreading out your investments across different countries and multiple economies with different characteristics. Because different regional markets tend to move in opposite directions, when the U.S. dollar weakens, foreign assets have the potential to cushion your portfolio against potential losses, which can help dampen volatility. This has the potential to result in more stable and consistent growth over time.
Check out your options.
Want a smarter way to bank? Explore our range of checking accounts and enjoy account perks such as no minimum deposit, no balance requirement, plus zero monthly maintenance fees when you enroll in eStatements.
A Word of Caution
While international investments offer important benefits, they can also carry risks related to political instability, currency fluctuations and reduced liquidity. When investing globally, it’s important to diversify across multiple regions and industries, maintain a long-term perspective and understand the specific risks you may face. An experienced wealth manager can help you incorporate global investments that are in line with your financial goals and overall wealth planning strategies.
AJ Kratz, CFA, CFP, is a Private Wealth Manager and Partner with Creative Planning. Creative Planning is one of the nation’s largest registered investment advisory firms, providing comprehensive wealth management services to help align all elements of a client’s financial life, including investments, taxes, estate planning, and risk management. For more information, or to request a free, no-obligation consultation, visit creativeplanning.com.
This commentary is provided for general information purposes only, should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice, and does not constitute an attorney/client relationship. Past performance of any market results is no assurance of future performance. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.
Time to refinance?
loans. Refinancing your motorcyle, RV, or boat loan could give you more cash in your pocket this spring. Plus, no payments for up to 90 days Apply in branch, over the phone, or online.
to credit approval. Restrictions may apply. Interest will accrue during deferment period.
of
AT LARGE
By
Bruce VanWyngarden
Aced It!
Bear. Rabbit. Duck. Hen. Kangaroo.
Donald Trump had been through a tough week. Gas prices were rising; the Strait of Hormuz was still blocked; King Charles got a better reception from Congress than he did; and his approval numbers were in the low 30s. Feeling the need for some uncritical adoration, Trump decided to go speak to some of his people last Friday, namely the MAGA denizens of e Villages in Florida.
Knowing he was in a safe space, he decided to break out the greatest hits from his campaign speech. For the next 94 minutes, the Villagers listened rapturously to Trump’s rambling blather: low-road attacks on “Sleepy Joe” Biden (who somehow managed not to fall asleep in cabinet meetings) and “Hussein” Obama; claims that the 2020 election was “rigged and stolen;” disparagement of Democrats as “human garbage;” and his ever-popular transgender weight-li er imitation. Finally, he got around to his o -repeated story about how he “aced” an “IQ test.”
test. It’s a test to measure cognitive impairment related to depression, schizophrenia, heart failure, substance abuse, and dementia. It’s a test to see how a person’s brain is functioning in regard to “short-term memory, visuospatial abilities, executive functions, attention span, concentration, and working memory.”
e MoCA test does not ask participants to perform complex mathematics problems. And you can’t ace it. If you get a score of 71 out of 100 or higher, the result is called “expected range.” How do I know so much about the test? I registered at the MoCA website and took the MoCA “XpressO” test, an online version of the thing, which puts me ahead of Biden and Obama, I guess.
Trump claimed that he’s taken the test three times, once for each of his three presidencies (not joking), and that it’s a very tough test. “ e rst question is very easy,” he said. “It’s a lion, a gira e, a bear, and a shark. ey say, ‘Which one is the bear?’” Trump hastened to let the Villagers know that it got much more di cult, and then proceeded to insult his elderly audience. “It’s a very standard test,” he said, “but very tough around those last 10 questions. … A lot of you wouldn’t have been able to answer those.”
How tough? Darn tough. Here’s Trump, verbatim, on one of the nal questions: “You know, they say, ‘Take a number, any number.’ ‘Okay, I’ll take 99.’ ‘Multiply it times nine.’ ‘Okay, divide it by three.’ ‘Good.’ ‘Add 4,293.’ ‘Divide by two, subtract 93, divide by nine. What’s your answer?’”
Well, I have to admit that’s a tough one. Someone online did the math and said the answer is 244.666, recurring. And Donald Trump, if we are to believe him, did it all in his head in 10 seconds. “ ere aren’t a lot of people that get it right,” he assured his audience, “But I got it right.”
Call me cynical, but on a scale of things that never happened, that anecdote is at the very top of my list. It doesn’t take much research to discover that the test that Trump claims to have aced three times is called the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and that it’s not an IQ
PHOTO: BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN
A portion of the test that Donald Trump claims to have aced.
It started out somewhat as Trump described. In my version, there were outlines of 15 animals and I was instructed to drag ve of them to ve horizontally placed boxes and remember the order I placed them in. e next question involved placing various circles, triangles, and squares in like patterns as to size and color. ere were a couple more of those, then I got asked to place the ve animals from the rst question in the same order I did earlier. Tricky! But I aced it.
And so it went for 30 timed questions, most of which involved remembering numbers, animals, and shapes from earlier questions and guring out patterns and sequences. I was hoping to get the famous “Person, Woman, Man, Camera, TV,” question, but no such luck.
So why does Trump keep telling this test story? It could stem from his handlers telling him he’s taking an IQ exam and he believes it. Or it could be just another schtick he’s come up with that enables him to rave about his own genius. Either way, it’s dumb as hell. Almost as dumb as those who believe him. For the record, I got a score of 97 on my MoCA exam. So vote for me! Bear. Rabbit. Duck. Hen. Kangaroo.
The Hot Tamale Capital of the World invites you to
an eclectic collection
» MAY « Mississippi Wildlife Heritage Festival, including Frog Fest and Leland Craw sh Festival LelandChamber.com
Future Tour Golf Championship
» JUNE « Delta Soul & Celebrity Golf Event facebook.com/DeltaSoulGolf
Lake Washington’s “Straight O The Lake” Music Festival
» AUGUST « MS Delta Duck Boat Races at Lake Washington
» SEPTEMBER « Delta Blues & Heritage Festival deltabluesms.org
Gumbo Nationals greenvillespeedway.net
Sam Chatmon Blues Fest facebook.com/SamChatmonBlues
Stephone Hughes Old Time Gospel Fest
» OCTOBER « Delta Hot Tamale Fest mainstreetgreenville.com/ delta-hot-tamale-festival
Highway 61 Blues Festival highway61blues.com
Monuments on Main Street Historic Greenville Cemetery Tour deltacenterstage.org/events
YMCA Cotton Classic 10K/5K Run racesonline.com/ymca-cotton-classic
» NOVEMBER « Roll’n on the River Car Show facebook.com/redwinecarshow
» DECEMBER « Christmas on Deer Creek LelandChamber.com
COVER STORY
By Toby Sells and the Memphis Flyer Staff
Booze
moment that brought … challenges into focus for a lot of people locally, given that it was one of the city’s more established breweries,” said Mike Erskine, founder and reporter for e Memphis Beer Blog. Neither Memphis nor these breweries are alone. Cra breweries across the country are closing — 481 of them last year, according to the latest numbers from the national Brewers Association. e only thing more startling than that gure is that closings are down from 2024 — when 591 cra breweries closed. Only 300 new cra breweries opened in 2025. at’s down from an astounding 518 that opened in 2024.
“ e slowdown in openings signals a shi toward a more mature, competitive market with fewer untapped opportunities for new market entrants,” reads the Brewers Association’s annual report.
In plain language, this means most markets have plenty of cra beer, the ght for beer customers is tough, and any entrepreneur with cra beer dreams should stop and think it over real hard right now. While this sounds familiar in Memphis, remember this report covers the entire U.S. cra beer industry — from Bangor to San Diego.
e only U.S. markets to get positive mentions in the report are the East North Central division ( Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin), which grew a whopping .3 percent, and the Paci c division, which lost only .1 percent. “Both are outperforming national trends,” reads the report.
“It is bleak,” said Blair Perry, co-founder and CEO of Soul & Spirits Brewery and the new president of the Tennessee Cra Brewers Guild. “It’s really hard to be running a brewery right now.”
Perry rattled o a list of stats that would make any cra beer C-suiter tremble. Alcohol consumption on-premise (people drinking in taprooms): down by .4 percent. O -premise consumption (taking home a six pack from a brewery): down 3.4 percent. Total U.S. cra beer made last year: down 5.1 percent. e economy is down. Prices are up. People are staying home.
Our Spring Beer Guide offers plenty of great Memphis brews, even as the craft industry faces tough times.
Cra beer “isn’t popular anymore.” e “bubble has burst.” e “boom is over.” e industry is entering a “painful period of rationalization.”
“Cra breweries struggle as sales and appetites wane.”
ese statements come, respectively, from Vice, Axios, VinePair, and e New York Times. ey started ringing alarm bells late last year and continue to ring them upon each new cra beer industry report.
It’s blatant hyperbole to say cra beer is no longer popular. But each statement that follows that one gets ever-more painfully true. One Memphis brewery owner and Tennessee cra beer leader called the situation here “bleak.”
A er the Great Memphis Beer Boom of 2013, the city swelled with beer. Since then, 17 independent breweries have operated inside Shelby County. (Eighteen if you count Mississippi Ale House in Olive Branch.)
Four of those did not survive — Memphis Made, Urban Consequence, Hook Point, and High Cotton. ough Grind City stopped selling cans in stores, it still has taproom hours listed on its website; yet its chief focus is on its concert venue, e Amp. You could put similar asterisks next to High Cotton and Memphis Made as their cans and brands remain in the market as of this writing.
“Memphis Made Brewing Co. ling for bankruptcy over the past year was a
She said 2024 was the rst year that more U.S. breweries closed than opened. Big breweries in Tennessee have merged, too, including Wiseacre buying Nashville’s Bearded Iris and Xul in Knoxville buying Nashville’s Southern Grist. Big mergers like these signal market instability even among the state’s most visible beer brands.
Erskine said breweries here are leaning into taproom visits and on-site sales, where margins are higher. Others, like Crosstown, expanded into THC-infused beverages. He said some continue to lean into creativity and experimentation in beers, calling out Meddlesome, Memphis Filling Station, and Soul & Spirits.
e future of cra beer in Memphis, however, may not just be about cra beer.
“Great beer is not the selling point,” Perry said. “ e selling point is
community, being a third space where people come to hang out and have fellowship.”
Why all this trouble? Let’s look quickly at what have become three national scapegoats.
GEN Z
Oh, boy. Gen Z if you’re reading this (and you’re not because Gen Z doesn’t trust “legacy media” like the Flyer, right?), you’ve been blamed for all kinds of stu . is includes the downfall of cra beer and bars in general. Dang.
Experts say Gen Z is broke; they’re addicted to the internet; they carouse and socialize online; they’re broke; they have negative associations with alcohol; they prefer THC; they’re broke; and, nally, they’re broke.
Hard and fast answers are murky here. I sure don’t have them. And what can a beer expert really do except peer a little harder into their crystal ball?
But if a generation that regularly posts its life online doesn’t want to broadcast itself hammered drunk, I’d buy that. If a generation hammered by everyday economic woes — skyrocketing college, food, and housing costs — doesn’t want to spend $7 on a pint, I’d buy that. If a generation simply rebelled against past generations, I’d buy that, too.
Truth is — plain and simple — the kids aren’t going out like they used to. And that has taken a bite out of beer.
NON-ALCOHOLIC
Drinkers not old enough to get “O’Doul’s” references have likely had a non-alcoholic beer. If folks are voting for presence or tness or against hangovers, NAs have concreted themselves in the beer market.
Did they dent alcoholic cra beer? While NA sales have exploded, they accounted for only 2.5 percent of overall beer sales last year. On the other hand, a Harris Poll last year found that 14 percent of cra beer drinkers are drinking less cra and more NA.
However, the Adult Non-Alcoholic Beverage Association (ANBA) estimates that more than 90 percent of consumers who purchase NA products are also buying alcoholic beverages. In sum, NA is a category to watch. But not enough on its own to to bust cra ’s boom.
THC
“ e narrative is simple: as access to THC expands, consumers substitute away from beer,” said Matt Gacioch, economist with the Brewers Association.
Weed products are everywhere and they’ll get you high, even currently in Memphis. at will soon change as
hemp-derived THC products (including your fave ower or vape) will be banned here at the end of June.
e multi-millions of dollars spent on legal weed everywhere had to take a bite out of beer, right? “Not much,” Gacioch contended a er an exhaustive review of data from states with di ering cannabis laws. To him, beer remains a social choice, while cannabis is a largely solitary a air. Consumers may use each in di erent settings.
Cra beer’s struggles, he said, could not simply be blamed on the rise of wacky-tabacky.
Spring Beer Guide —
But guess what? People still love beer. We really do. And there’s plenty of it to drink in Memphis this spring: Tons of new styles from your favorite local breweries, tons of great stu on store shelves from other markets. For this guide — for heaven’s sake — let’s focus on beers from our beloved Memphis cra breweries.
We were not able to get beers from every cra brewery here. Logistics is one thing, space available for reviews in this newspaper is another. So we did our best with all the love for our breweries in our hearts.
As I say every time we do beer reviews in this space, we are not beer experts. We gather our little newsroom crew (and some friends), try some of the newest, coolest beers to drink this season, and write what we know.
We know the Oxford comma but we might not know the exact di erence in a Kölsch and a pilsner. However, we are beer consumers in this market. Like most who
stumble into a Memphis brewery or store, we know what we like, what we don’t, and if a beer (or even a style) just ain’t our thing. And we go from there.
For this one, we were welcomed with open arms to e Wild Beet, the restaurant in what will become Stomping Grounds (at the old Railgarten site). Big thanks to Kelcie Nollner for letting us sprawl in the Beet’s dining room, drink beer, and talk ... loudly. Can’t wait to get back there for pizza and salad! Big thanks, also, to Andrew Mathewes and Lindsey Shanmugasundaram for letting us hang and showing us around Stomping Grounds as they transform that huge space! I am so excited to drink a beer there very soon.
We hope this guide can put you on to some good Memphis beers this spring. Support our cra beer industry, y’all! We have an amazing thing here, lled with creative and hardworking people. Let’s keep it going. Go drink a beer.
— Toby Sells
Fool’s Gold
American lager
Crosstown Brewing Co.
Tastes like beer. Real, good beer. I’m the fool, though. I was all like (in a dumb, mocking voice) “ e can has a Memphis Easter egg. See it? e miner. Looks like the Huey’s guy, right?” Fool’s Gold is literally a collaboration with Crosstown and Huey’s. Probably said so right on the can. Do not trust what I write here. — Toby Sells
is Crosstown product presents as a boring lager, but a few sips reveal a more complex avor than your standard Budweiser. It’s got a hoppy note, with a little more malt for balance. Overall a fantastic summer drink. — Chris McCoy It tastes at. Flavor and bubbles are missing. — Gracie Driver e old me would have turned my snooty nose up at a lighter American lager … but I’m a wiser man now and know how to appreciate the simple things in life.
— Samuel X. Cicci
is will get the job done, but I found its avor pro le to be a bit nondescript. —
Alex Greene
Sky Dog
Premium lager
Wiseacre Brewing Co.
Sky Dog was the named the best light lager in America in 2024. I can see why. Oh, and the Sky Dog Mexican lager was the best in America last year. If that doesn’t do it for you, it’s only 99 calories. — TS So fresh, so clean. Sky Dog is my go-to beer these days. It’s simple perfection. Did I call lagers boring? I take it back. — CM Fruity and acidic at rst, then boozy burnt sugar notes at the end. — GD ere’s really no reason to buy Budweiser, Michelob, or any kind of domestic light when Sky Dog is around. —SXC Tangier than Fool’s Gold, this is
PHOTOS: (ABOVE) TOBY SELLS; (LEFT) CHRIS McCOY
continued from page 11
nonetheless a lighter lager and hence immensely qua able. And I like that the alcohol content is a humble 4 percent, so all that qua ng won’t send me into the blotto zone. — AG
Bring It Home
Bavarian helles lager
Soul & Spirits Brewery
So er than the rst two lagers, true to the style. Perfect day drinker. I’m in love. — TS is crisp Munich lager leads with a bitter smell a er the initial pour. But the hoppy promise doesn’t carry through to the rst sip. Instead, you get a watery mouthfeel and very little avor. — CM
It tastes sweet and gentle. — GD
I’m drawn to the complexity of this lager’s avor. Sometimes lagers can sport a watery quality, but here, there’s a crispness mixed with a fuller body that makes it work on more levels of the palate. — AG
Tastes exactly like a Corona if that’s your thing. — Shara Clark
Hop Zip
Non-alcoholic sparkling water
Wiseacre Brewing Co.
A cup full of bubbles and a burst of brightness! Tastes like a White Claw without the whisper of medicinal cherries. Less carbonation than a typical sparkling water.
No burn. — SC
It’s light, avorful, and oral. Tastes like a fancy liquid peach ring. — GD
Bluewing
Berry wheat ale
Flyway Brewing Co.
Tastefully fruited. Perfect for spring. — TS
Bluewing works because there’s not too much blueberry avor, which balances out with the more traditional malt and hop notes. — CM
A trustworthy description on the can. — GD
Since I don’t do many lagers, this wheat beer has become one of my main choices for a hot summer day. — SXC is is a fruity beer for those who don’t like fruity beer. Its summery blend of dark berry undertones with crisp wheat avors is so nuanced, it’s a class apart from more cloying, juiced-up brews. — AG
Tan Lines
Kölsch ale with tangerine
Memphis Made Brewing Co.
I was expecting an orange punch in the mouth. is ain’t it. It’s subtle and it nished Kölsch clean. — TS is beer smells like orange juice, but it doesn’t taste like it. e citrus avor gets lost in a sugary haze. Memphis Made has made some great beers. is is not one of
continued on page 14
PHOTO: TOBY SELLS
continued from page 12
them. — CM
It’s citrusy with a herbaceous grassy nish. — GD e crispness and the tartness are there, but you don’t feel like you’re being clobbered with a fruit basket. is one is smooth, subtle, sly, and sippable. — AG
Orange Ya Sweet
Blood orange wheat ale Ghost River Brewing Co.
Big wheat up front! Fun, little orange nish on the back. As tastefully fruited as the Bluewing, imho. — TS e biggest word on my Ghost River Blood Orange Wheat Ale mood board is “ zzy.” e head was very robust, and stuck around for a long time. is beer seems like it’s aimed at the White Claw hard seltzer fans. — CM Tart. No further notes. — GD
Homestyle IPA
Bearded Iris Brewing (Wiseacre) Big. Fruity. Tropical. I’m an IPA bro, still. Sue me. (Please don’t.) And this is the one? Ranks high. Now that it’s made in Memphis, I don’t have to hide the can in a koozie anymore. — TS
I consider myself a consistent critic of IPAs, but this Wiseacre product sold me. I can give this one my enthusiastic recommendation. — CM
I’m on my honeymoon in Hawaii,
when I walk up to the bartender and ask for a Bearded Iris.
“We don’t carry that here,” he says. “We have other IPAs, though.”
“ at’s ok,” I say as I pull out my own can of Bearded Iris and turn to face the camera, holding up the can so the logo is visible.
“Bearded Iris is the only IPA for me.”
“You can’t bring your own beer, sir,” the bartender replies as he calls security. ( is is one of the only IPAs I will drink a er trying it.) — SXC is IPA is almost like a stealth fruity beer. It has almost pulpy viscosity, and there are hints of fruit in the avor pro le. And yet at heart, this is an IPA with all the acerbic hoppiness that implies. A bit heavy for my taste, but solid. — AG
Handlebar Haze
New England IPA
Hampline Brewing Co.
Hampline — Did someone call for an IPA bro who is ALSO a hazy boi?! (I’m embarrassing myself with honesty here.) Look, I am who I am and I love Handlebar Haze. Juicy. Fruity. Light. — TS
I tried to keep an open mind, IPA wise, but I was not impressed. Handlebar tastes a little watered down compared to its competitors, like a beer that lacks the courage of its convictions. — CM
If you’re not sold on IPAs, this is a great place to start. — SXC
PHOTO: TOBY SELLS
Thursday June 11, 2026 at 7:30 a.m. at Memphis Botanic Garden Hardin Hall
750 Cherry Road Memphis, TN 38117
Memphis is home to an incredible community of talented and inspiring executives. These exceptional leaders are setting new standards of success across industries.
Join us on Thursday, June 11, 2026, as we honor the following distinguished leaders:
• Kevin Sharp of Dixon Gallery & Gardens
• Lindsey D. Rhea of Alia Wealth Partners
• Matt Thompson of Memphis Zoo
• Osi Imomoh of Southland Casino
Tickets are available for purchase for $30 per person and include breakfast. Tables of 10 are available for $300. Doors open at 7:30 a.m., and the program will begin promptly at 8 a.m.
Purchase your tickets today at bit.ly/4vDlRAl
steppin’ out Memphis Arts Come Alive
We Recommend: Culture, News + Reviews
By Kimberly Ham
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the full spectrum of Memphis arts in a single a ernoon, this year’s Art for All Festival delivers exactly that — and then some.
e Dixon Gallery & Gardens is hosting this year, this free, familyfriendly celebration in partnership with Shelby County Government. Now in its fourth year, Art for All has quickly grown into one of the city’s most vibrant showcases of creativity, bringing together more than 40 arts and cultural organizations and 17 performances across two stages.
“It’s an event where you can feel the heartbeat of our city all in one place,” says Christan Allen, assistant director of education at the Dixon. at heartbeat will echo through the gardens and galleries with performances by groups like Opera Memphis, Hattiloo eatre, Playhouse on the Square, and Memphis Youth Symphony, alongside dance, theater, and music from across the city’s creative ecosystem.
But Art for All isn’t just about watching — it’s about doing. Visitors can dive into hands-on art-making, explore booths from organizations like River Arts Fest and Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and enjoy classic festival fun like face painting, balloon art, and even a photobooth. Food trucks and DJs round out the atmosphere, making it as lively as it is welcoming.
For Janet Lo, Shelby County’s director of community engagement and nonpro t services, the mission goes deeper than a single day. “Art for All is about increasing awareness and access to cultural opportunities,” she says. “It’s not a zero-sum game — we’re li ing the entire arts landscape so people can discover everything Memphis has to o er.”
at spirit of discovery is part of what makes the festival unique. From major institutions to emerging groups, everyone shares the same stage — sometimes literally. One moment you might catch a symphony performance; the next, a spontaneous line dance breaking out in the crowd.
Held rain or shine (indoors if needed), the festival also marks a special moment for the Dixon as it celebrates its 50th anniversary year. And ttingly, this year’s garden setting adds a fresh dimension to an already dynamic event.
Come early, stay curious, and don’t be surprised if you leave saying exactly what organizers hope: “I didn’t know this existed.”
FOR ALL FESTIVAL, DIXON
VARIOUS DAYS & TIMES May 7th - 13th
Jerry Seinfeld
Orpheum eatre, Saturday, May 9, 8 p.m.
Comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld brings his signature observational humor to the Orpheum eatre for an evening of stand-up. Rising to fame a er his 1981 debut on e Tonight Show, Seinfeld went on to co-create the iconic sitcom Seinfeld with Larry David, a series widely regarded as one of the greatest in television history. In addition to his classic TV success, Seinfeld continues to evolve with acclaimed projects like Comedians in Cars Getting Co ee and recent Net ix specials. Expect a sharp, relatable set from one of comedy’s most enduring voices.
Baby Day
Memphis Zoo, Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m-6 p.m.
Celebrate the Zoo’s newest arrivals at Baby Day this Mother’s Day weekend. Enjoy special keeper chats, family-friendly activities, and plenty of chances to meet the latest additions to the animal family — all included with general admission. Presented by Fertility Associates of Memphis.
Runway at the Museum Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Friday, May 8, 6-10 p.m. Memphis Art & Fashion Week goes out in style with its grand nale runway show on May 8. Featuring 34 designers and more than 100 looks, the high-energy showcase is headlined by Michael Ngo and brings together the city’s fashion community for a night of bold cre-
ativity and live-performance air. VIP tickets o er perks like priority seating, lounge access, and exclusive amenities, while all runway tickets include entry to an a erparty on the plaza with a DJ, food, drinks, and a glambot experience.
Kristina Joy Carlson with Andrew Jehl Mathewes: Outrageous Kindness
Novel, Wednesday, May 13, 6 p.m.
Author Kristina Joy Carlson discusses her new book Outrageous Kindness: A Mindset, a Method, a Movement in a conversation with Andrew Jehl Mathewes. Carlson reframes kindness as a bold, transformative force, sharing practical tools and her KIND Method for creating meaningful change in everyday life. Signed copies available.
ART
GALLERY & GARDENS, 4339 PARK AVE., SATURDAY, MAY 9, 11 A.M.-3 P.M., FREE.
PHOTO: COURTESY ISAAC SINGLETON Music at the Arts for All Festival is bumpin’ and shaking it up.
• 5/9 – 19th Clarksdale Caravan Music Fest (Cat Head/Bad Apple Blues Club/Bluesberry)
• 5/9 – Pinetop Boogie &w Crawfish Boil. Ground Zero Blues Club, benefiting Pinetop Perkins Foundation
• 5/16 – Women In Blues festival
• 5/22–23 – Ground Zero Blues Club Anniversary
• 5/23 – Tater Superbad Blues Festival
• 5/24 – 6th annual Bad Apple Blues Festival
• 5/28-30 – Son House Tribute Festival
Hear Live Blues every night In clarksdale, ms
Experience over a dozen festivals every year
• 6/19-21 – B.A.M. Fest (Birthplace of American Music)
• 8/7-9 – 38th Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival
UPCOMING EVENTS 2026
• 8/7-9 – Cat Head 24th Anniversary Weekend
• 9/5 – 8th Red’s Old-Timers Blues Fest (MLK Park Stage)
• 9/25-26 – Mighty Roots Music Festival (Stovall Farm)
• 9/26 – 3rd Jessie Mae Hemphill Hill Country Blues Festival at Crossroads Cultural Arts Center
• 10/8-10 – King Biscuit Blues Festival (Helena, Arkansas)
• 10/2026 - TBD – Hopson Pumpkin Pickin’ Festival w/music, kids’ activities and more
• 10/11 – Clarksdale Super Blues Sunday: Cat Head Mini Blues Fest, Bluesberry Café, Delta Blues, Ground Zero Blues Club, Pinetop Perkins Homecoming, Levon’s, Hooker Grocer, Red’s, and more!
• 10/15-17 - 34th annual Mississippi Delta Tennessee Williams Festival
• 10/17 - Clarksdale Crossroads Blues Festival
• 10/29-11/01 - Hambone Festival
• 10/31 - Cruz’n The Crossroads Car & Truck Show
• 12/31 - Celebrate New Year’s at the Crossroads w/multiple shows around town
Be sure to visit The Delta Blues Museum, the first museum in the world dedicated to blues music.
PHOTO BY RORY DOYLE
MUSIC By Michael Donahue
Hitting First Base
ET Cruiser makes its debut.
Porchfest is responsible for a lot of rsts. e CooperYoung event, held on April 19th, was the rst time ET Cruiser performed. e band includes lead singer Lawson Day, guitarist Owen Wright, drummer Margo Araoz, bass player September Siskind, and, on synthesizer and keys, Iris McCann.
Day rst saw Wright perform at the 2022 Porchfest. It was also the rst Porchfest he had ever been to. He and some friends were walking along the sidewalk, singing Big Star’s “In the Street.”
“We were having a good time walking around Cooper-Young, just trying to get to the next porch or whatever,” says Day. All of a sudden they heard a band playing “In the Street.” “We freaked out,” he says, adding, “ ey were actually playing the song we were just singing.”
Wright was playing guitar of the song with a cover band, Strawberry Handshake. “I never met him in my life,” Day says. “I didn’t meet him until a few months later at a show at his house.” Wright was playing drums in a local band, American Death Machine, at that show. “I had a really good backyard and we used to host shows there,” Wright says.
ey ran into each other from time to time and eventually became friends. “He knows a lot. Like music theorywise and stu . But he’s not pretentious about it at all.”
Hearing Wright’s band at Porchfest was a big part of why Day began ET Cruiser in the rst place. He thought, “I need to be in a band. I need to do this next year.” Sure enough, Day and his band at the time, Macrophonics, played Porchfest in 2023. It was also their rst performance.
Meanwhile, Day wanted to play with Wright. “We’d hung out and jammed
some,” Day says. “I was just hitting him up to jam every once in a while.”
Day, who describes ET Cruiser as being “in the realm of punk rock,” began forming the group a year ago last spring. But, he says, “We didn’t really get going with it until maybe closer to fall. We planned on Porchfest being our rst show. We were taking time getting songs done and that kind of thing.” Porchfest “feels more special. More energy overall.”
hard to get people to dance.”
“I think the best thing about it was all of us had so many other things to o er to the band,” Wright says. “I’d played in bands where everyone knows the same amount of theory, knows the same amount of songwriting, knows the same amount of arranging.” But in ET Cruiser, all the band members “o er something completely di erent. I felt like I could shine.”
And, he adds, “No one steps on each other as far as the song goes. e song is the most important part.”
eir last practice session before Porchfest was at Java Cabana in CooperYoung. It was the rst time they heard themselves outside their practice space, Day says. “We were heavier.”
ET Cruiser’s debut show was “fantastic,” Day says. “ e crowd that showed up was really special. I knew it was 2 p.m. at Porchfest — I gured we’d get a decent crowd. But everybody in front was dancing and stu , which I really appreciated. I feel like Owen made pretty fancy dance music. It’s
His former band got people moving, but people really dance to ET Cruiser because there’s “more instrumentation in this band,” Day says. “It brings more of a wave over people. It’s a pretty great feeling to have people dancing to something they’ve never heard and that we’ve played for the rst time.”
One example: “Tachyon,” the third song they played. “I think of this as being one of the least dance-y songs in the mix. But people were just kind of going at it from the beginning.”
Musically, “Tachyon” was a collaboration between Day and Wright. A tachyon is “a [hypothetical] particle that moves faster than light. I don’t know that much about it, actually. Just from reading Watchmen. Dr. Manhattan talks about it. Also, there’s a Steely Dan song where they talk about it.”
Day, Wright, and Siskind co-wrote another song, “Idiots Brigade.”
“Mostly I would say Owen structures out the songs and chooses the chords, and that sort of thing. And I pretty much just do the lyrics. I came up with the concepts of two songs, ‘Digital
PHOTO: MICHAEL DONAHUE
ET Cruiser: Margo Araoz, Iris McCann, Owen Wright, September Siskind, Lawson Day
Distraction’ and ‘Go Karts on 55.’ ose still needed Owen’s knowledge to structure them out and give them just a little more depth.”
“Digital Distraction” is “about smartphones and how they take up a lot of our time and attention span and keep us from actually experiencing life.” As for the subject matter, Day says, “I’m trying to see all the negative aspects of how technology has been a ecting people my age.”
So, where did the name “ET Cruiser” come from? “I’ve been meaning to ask that myself,” Day says. It wasn’t the rst name that popped up for the band. Someone had suggested “Alien Cruiser” as in a “spaceship car,” Day says. “I was like, ‘I don’t know.’” But everybody seemed to like “ET Cruiser.”
ET Cruiser will play the “What’s for Breakfast?” show on Friday, May 15th at the Lamplighter Lounge.
AFTER DARK: Live Music Schedule May 7 - 13
Floetry Presents: Say Yes Tour
Known for seamlessly blending soulful vocals with spoken-word poetry.
ursday, May 7, 7:30 p.m.
THE ORPHEUM THEATRE
Grit & Grind Music
Machine and DJ A.D.
Energizing stages for decades with an irresistible blend of soul, funk, jazz, pop, and everything in between.
ursday, May 7, 6-10 p.m.
THE PEABODY ROOFTOP
The Orchestra
Unplugged:
Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring
Music Director Robert Moody dives into the rhythms and bold landscape that shocked audiences in 1913 and still electri es listeners today.
ursday, May 7, 7:30 p.m.
HALLORAN CENTRE
Jeremy Scott With Graham Winchester.
Friday, May 8, 7 p.m.
SOUTH MAIN SOUNDS
Brit Floyd - The Moon, The Wall, and Beyond is show recreates the spirit, sound, and scale of Pink Floyd. Sunday, May 10, 7 p.m.
CANNON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Symphony in the Gardens
Celebrate Mother’s Day with big band music performed by the MSO. Sunday, May 10, 5-6:45 p.m.
DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS
Wendell Wells Live Music
Wendell Wells sings and plays hits plus his own brand of honky tonk, cow jazz, and barnyard blues. Sunday, May 10, 9 p.m.
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM
Antone’s Super Blues Party
A powerhouse collaboration bringing together some of the nest names in blues. Friday, May 8, 8 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening
An intimate, high-energy, and authentic tribute to Led Zeppelin featuring Jason Bonham. Saturday, May 9, 8 p.m.
GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE
Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch with Susan Marshall
Celebrate Mother’s Day with
Susan Marshall, bringing the perfect mix of soul, swing, and Memphis groove. Saturday, May 9, 12 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
Marilyn Manson
Bringing One Assassination Under God Tour to Memphis. Wednesday, May 13, 7:30-10 p.m.
GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE
Emma Zinck
A dynamic force in the world of “Electric Country,” and an artist on the rise. ursday, May 7, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.
TIN ROOF
VizzTone Blues Party on Beale
“Long Tall Deb” Landolt cultivated her soul/gospel honey-dipped voice in church as a child. Friday, May 8, 7 p.m.-midnight.
RUM BOOGIE CAFE
Baunie and Soul
Bringing soulful rhythms of music to life. Sunday, May 10, 7-11 p.m.
RUM BOOGIE CAFE
Global Plague With Sibyl, Burnt Witch, and Greyhame. ursday, May 7,
8 p.m.
GROWLERS
Bernell Jones II
Returns Home
A Memphis native returns home for one day. Friday, May 8, 7:30 p.m.
THE GREEN ROOM
Black Marble With Recent Future and General Labor. Friday, May 8, 9 p.m.
HI TONE CAFE
Bluff City Bandits
Bringing high-energy country rock. Friday, May 8, 6 p.m.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Eddie 9V
Eddie 9V has an endless stockpile of cool stories – and you’ll nd 12 of them on his new studio album, Saratoga. Friday, May 8, 7:30 p.m.-12 a.m.
OVERTON PARK SHELL
moe.
PHOTO: COURTESY CROSSTOWN ARTS
Bernell Jones II
Brunchella 2026
Every ticket sold goes to Eddie’s Hugs nonpro t. Friday, May 8, 8 p.m.
MINGLEWOOD HALL
Twin Soul
A rock & roll band specializing in high-energy covers spanning the 70’s to today. Friday, May 8, 9:30 p.m.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Memphis-based Nick Black is a fun, optimistic, and authentic artist. Saturday, May 9, 12 p.m.
OVERTON PARK
Trouble No More
- Allman Brothers
Tribute Showcase
A performance of the immortal Southern rock and blues songs of the Allman Brothers Band. Saturday, May
9, 7:30-9 p.m.
OVERTON PARK SHELL
The Casualties: Detonate Tour Alternative rock. Tuesday, May 12, 9 p.m. 1884 LOUNGE
Stereo Sessions
Ep 2
DJ Squeeky presents Tom Skeemask.
Wednesday, May 13, 6 p.m.
MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB
Concerts in The Grove: Mark
Edgar Stuart Music on the TruGreen Lawn. ursday, May 7, 6:30-8 p.m.
GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
On Stage with Iris
Collective: Vijay Gupta
Renowned violinist, speaker, and author Vijay Gupta makes his Iris debut with a personal and collaborative program that connects masterworks of the past with the music of our time. Friday, May 8, 7-8 p.m.]
GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
CALENDAR of EVENTS: May
ARTS AND SPECIAL EXHIBITS
Bill Killebrew: “The Four O’Clocks”
Scenes from everyday life blend contemplative observation with heightened reality. rough May 30.
DAVID LUSK GALLERY
Dorothy Gunther Pugh: “Nature Yearns”
Contemplative drawings and watercolors of trees and their twisted branches, fallen limbs, and rotting stumps. Free. rough June 7.
DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS
“Last Whistle: Steamboat Stories of Memphis”
Boat models bring the history of the city’s steamboats to life. rough June 26.
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY AT THE PINK PALACE
Mary Sims: “A Retrospective” e rst museum survey of Sims’s extraordinary career. Free. rough June 7.
DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS
Meghean Warner Art Exhibition e artist is inspired by Mem-
7 - 13, 2026
phis, its people, and her faith. Free. rough May 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
“Memphis College of Art, 1936-2020: An Enduring Legacy” rough this exhibition of ninety faculty, administrators, and graduates, this show reects on the school’s historical impact. rough Sept. 30.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM
“The Mystery of Cave Island”
Eileen Havant Townsend presents eight dioramas of rocky landscapes alongside eight graphite drawings. rough June 20.
TOPS GALLERY
“Navigating Knowledge” is exhibition explores vessels and navigation as metaphors for the containment and transmission of knowledge. rough Oct. 31.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM
Savannah Jewell Art Exhibition
Jewell’s artistic expression has gone through many phases over the years. Free. rough May 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
All the cute furry friends are gaterhing at Puppy Palooza at the South Plaza of Crosstown Concourse.
Shelby East Garden Club: “Garden Beds & Community Roots”
Archival photographs and stories re ect decades of environmental stewardship and oral artistry. rough July 3.
COLLIERVILLE MORTON MUSEUM
Shelley Bolton Art Exhibition
Works re ecting the textures and organic layers of landscapes. Free. rough May 29.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
Send the date, time, place, cost, info, phone number, a brief description, and photos — two weeks in advance — to calendar@memphisflyer.com. DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS WILL APPEAR IN THE FLYER’S ONLINE CALENDAR ONLY. FOR COMPREHENSIVE EVENTS LISTING, VISIT EVENTS.MEMPHISFLYER.COM/CAL.
Bring your picnic blankets and folding chairs to this cinema under the stars. Free. ursday, May 7, 7-8 p.m.
OVERTON SQUARE
Keep Marching: A SUFFS Screening Event
Join the Orpheum eatre Group and WKNO for this preview of the musical SUFFS Friday, May 8, 8 p.m.
HALLORAN CENTRE
Memphis Parks Movie Night
Watch Zootopia 2 outside. Saturday, May 9, 6-9 p.m.
WOLF RIVER GREENWAY
ART HAPPENINGS
Super SaturdayFashion In this hands-on, fashion-
forward activity, kids design their own paper dolls using cutouts and coloring materials. Free. Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-noon.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM
BOOK EVENTS
Max Brallier: The Last Comics on Earth: Across the Doodleverse In this nal Last Comics adventure, the superheroes must save kids’ schoolwork-margin doodles. ursday, May 7, 5:30 p.m. NOVEL
Book Signing with Kathryn Stockett: The Calamity Club
Meet Stockett, bestselling author of e Help, and celebrate her latest novel, e Calamity Club. $39.19. Friday, May 8, 6:30 p.m.
BOOKS-A-MILLION
Novels After Naps Kids, from babies to 5 years old, can enjoy a calm and cozy story session. Saturday, May 9, 4-4:45 p.m. GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY LIBRARY
PHOTO: COURTESY CROSSTOWN ARTS
Special Story Time Event: Inis Acla School of Irish Dance
Hear Mary McCrary The Irish Dance Fairy read aloud, and then the dancing will begin. Participants will leave knowing a few Irish dance steps. Saturday, May 9, 10:30 a.m. NOVEL
Storybook Saturday: The 96-Acre Wood
Celebrate the opening of the Idea Garden with a live Winnie-the-Pooh performance from Playhouse on the Square and storybookinspired fun in My Big Backyard. Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
COMMUNITY
Canoes + Cocktails
Enjoy a guided sunset paddle on the lake, followed by specialty cocktails, snacks, games, and music. Friday, May 8, 6:15 p.m.
SHELBY FARMS PARK
Songbird Stroll at Overton Park
Venture out to see what the birds are up to in the Old Forest. Free. Friday, May 8, 8-9 a.m.
OVERTON PARK - EAST PARKWAY PAVILION
2026 Art for All Festival
Enjoy hands-on activities from 30+ arts and culture organizations, plus live music, performances, interactive games, and face painting. Free. Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS
Overton Park x Old Dominick
Cocktail Class
Learn to craft two exclusive Squirrel Tale cocktails while hearing the story behind this distinctive whiskey. $55.00. Saturday, May 9, 6-8 p.m.
Inspired by The Fool tarot card, this creative gathering invites you to take a leap and learn something new from four creatives across four different mediums. $10. Monday, May 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
BAR DKDC
COMEDY
Click to Add Title: An Improvised Powerpoint Comedy Show
A fast-paced comedy show where comedians are thrown into the deep end: they’re handed a PowerPoint they’ve never seen before. $10. Thursday, May 7, 7-9 p.m.
LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE
DANCE
Where We Land
Blending traditional tap dance with contemporary influences, this show encourages viewers to consider not just the paths we take in life, but how we arrive, and what it means to truly find our place. Friday, May 8, 7:3010:30 p.m.
GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY THEATRE
SPECIAL EVENTS
Art & Aperitifs: Fashion is Art
Before the runway, there is the story. Get inside the creative process with an extraordinary panel of fashion visionaries. Thursday, May 7, 6-7:30 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM
Memphis Home & Lifestyle Show
Step into the Home Show for hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers to elevate your home. Free. Friday, May 8, noon-6 p.m.
AGRICENTER ARENA
Runway Afterparty
The official post-show celebration of Memphis Art and Fashion Week. $35. Friday, May 8, 8:30-10:30 p.m.
THE MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Runway at the Museum
Memphis Art and Fashion Week ends on the runway. This finale is a full-scale fashion spectacle featuring headline designer Michael Ngo, where the city’s style community converges for one electrifying night. $55. Friday, May 8, 6-10 p.m.
THE MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Puppy Palooza 2026
An afternoon full of fun and furry friends. Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE
2026 Mother’s Day Brunch
Celebrating mothers of every generation. Free. Sunday, May 10, 2-5 p.m.
SHELBY FARMS PARK
Mother’s Day at the Memphis Botanic Garden
Treat mom to a Mom-osa or other libation from the bar. Sunday, May 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
Mother’s Day Memphis Gardens Park Tours
Spend time in a beautiful park on Mother’s
Day. Free. Sunday, May 10, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
OVERTON PARK SHELL
THEATER
Jesus Christ Superstar
The last week of Jesus’ life from a different perspective. Through May 17.
PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
The “Mother of the Blues” is in a rundown Chicago studio recording new versions of her classic hits. Through May 10.
HATTILOO THEATRE
Noises Off
B-list actors rehearse a British bedroom farce. $15-$69.94. Through May10.
THEATRE MEMPHIS
Primary Trust
This play dives into the mind of Kenneth, who spent most of his evenings at a local bar with his “friend” Bert. Through May 31. THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE
Where We Land blends traditional tap dance with contemporary influences. ACROSS
1 Wanderer’s refuge
6 1/8 of a standard stick of butter: Abbr.
10 Part of the eye
14 Big shot?
16 Some deer
17 Words in hide-and-seek
18 Fleece
19 Rafael Nadal’s country, in the Olympics
20 What vines do
21 Owner of Bloomingdale’s
22 British philanthropist Henry
23 How John Glenn orbited the earth in 1962
25 Insurance department
28 Expert sleuth
31 Wanders
32 Turn a blind eye
33 “Gracious!”
34 Their pockets aren’t deep
35 “Dominant” thing
36 “It wasn’t my fault”
38 What “de rien” might be a response to
39 Precisely
40 Ted with a cameo in the movie “Ted”
41 Instruction given through a rolled-down window
42 Cross
43 Singer Khan
45 Creaky part of a house
47 Where to stick a toothpick
50 Front part of a saddle
51 Something relatively complicated?
53 Off-theshoulders hairstyle
54 At all
55 Certain competition
56 “If someone ___ careful …”
57 Seriously bother DOWN
1 “Tom Thumb” antagonist
2 Father of Deimos and Phobos
3 Product sold in bars
4 OB/GYN offering
5 Aids for snoops
6 A crowd, so to speak
7 Shade of white
8 Sign indicating a sign
9 Bettor’s winnings
10 Often-repeated bit of modern folklore
11 Some commercial work
12 Hard to
PUZZLE BY ROBYN WEINTRAUB
IWe Saw You.
f you didn’t get enough music at last year’s Cooper-Young Fest, last month’s Porchfest, also held in that district, was a great way to indulge even more.
Music lovers sauntered up and down Cooper Street and its side avenues, stopping to hear the nearly 200 bands that dotted the area.
The annual event is presented by the Cooper-Young Community Association, whose executive director, Amanda Yarbro-Dill, enthused on social media, “I want to thank every artist who shared your talent, every porch host who opened your space, and every single person who showed up to listen, wander, dance, and connect — thank you. You made this day what it was!”
PHOTOS: MICHAEL DONAHUE
top row: (left to right) Brittany and Charles Hayes; Leandra Oliphant, Kass Jones, Jake Jones, Alexis Tietjen middle left: Tara Shepherd, Drew Sachenbacher, and Joe Dowling; circle: Matthew Burdine
below: (left to right) September Siskind, Issabelle Pere, Lawson Day, Lo Norman, Margo Araoz
bottom row: (left to right) Laura Ramirez and Brandon Haney; Dominic Carbognani, Jon Bringle, Mark Biggie; Bailey Bigger, Tate Lowrance, Sarah Spain; Niko Granados and Shelby Britt
with michael donahue
Spring sprang with another day of music at Grind City Amphitheater on the grounds of Grind City Brewing. e event, held April 25th, featured headliner MonoNeon along with Frank McLallen & Extra Eyes, Joybomb, Cedric Burnside, and Raneem Imam.
e amphitheater, also known as “Grind City Amp,” is a collaboration between Grind City Brewing and veteran concert promoter Nick Barbian.
e Alabama Shakes headlined the venue’s inaugural concert, which was held April 22nd.
PHOTOS: MICHAEL DONAHUE
top row: (le to right) Steven Lopez and Jack Ladd; Scott Fife, Sage Fife, Lilah Drum
right: (le to right) Nick Barbian; Hopper Seely below: (le to right) Gavin Reynolds, Marissa Can eld, Ryan Estes; Chris, Cassie, Campbell, and Conrad Duncan bottom le : Ruby and Clark Schifani
FOOD By Michael Donahue
The Sweet Treat Stop
is mom-and-pop business caters to sweet teeth.
Willy Wonka has nothing on Todd and Lisa Alonzo. Like Wonka, the Alonzos cater to sweet teeth with Nostalgic Nibbles — a combination sweets and candy dispenser business.
It’s a “mom-and-pop,” Todd says. His wife, Lisa, makes the sweets and he makes his wooden candy dispensers — Gumball George and Gumball Gina.
eir candy is limited to to ee, but other sweets include cakes, cookies, seasoned pretzels, cotton candy, and caramel popcorn. e couple set up a booth three weekends a month at di erent shows: Hub City Market in Jackson, Tennessee, the rst Saturday of the month; Rhodes House in Covington, Tennessee, the second Saturday; and the Southern Flea Market in Memphis the third Saturday. “We’re a sweet treat stop for everybody when they’re walking through,” Todd says.
enjoyed it. We entertained a lot, so I’d be cooking for a lot of people.” As for baking, she never stopped a er her mom taught her how to make yeast rolls.
Lisa creates di erent cake avors every month. For May, she’ll have an “orange creamsicle cake” — orange cake with vanilla icing. “We’re coming into summer. It makes you think of fruits and fun ice cream with the weather getting warm,” she says.
e dispenser was something Todd’s dad began building about 50 years ago. “It’s a little tabletop dispenser. You put candy in the top, turn the nose, and candy comes out. We actually sold them at a number of places,” Todd says. “We lived in Connecticut. We had a summer house in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Cra fairs in both locations are ubiquitous.”
Todd has his dad’s templates, which he’s updated, as well as some of the original dispensers. His father named them Gumball George because they have a “face” — a mustache and eyes — on the front. Todd made the Gumball Gina dispensers with lipstick, mascara, and earrings.
Lisa is “very creative,” he says. She adds her own touches, like lemon frosting on her strawberry cake and Ghirardelli chocolate chips in her brownies. “We have fun playing with avors and making up new things,” Lisa says.
Lisa sells cake ights, which, she feels, is one thing that sets them apart. “I sell slices, so, it’s like a sample pack … four main avors of the month in one package.” She also o ers cookie and bread ights.
e couple didn’t envision this type of business when they got married. In fact, Todd says, “She couldn’t boil water in the beginning.” He was one of Lisa’s rst cooking teachers. “I’ve always loved to cook. I was the guy who cooked at college for my roommates.”
But Todd doesn’t bake at all. “No. I can’t bake Toll House cookies that come out of the tube. I’m the stove-top cook, things from scratch … but no baking.”
“Cooking came easy,” Lisa says. “I
CALENDAR
Todd, who is retired, told Lisa one day, “I’m thinking about making Gumball George again just to ll the time, keep me busy.” He started selling them at shows. en Lisa came up with the idea of also selling her sweets. She said, “‘I’m going with you. I could probably make some of my favorites and see how they go … I could make some of your mom’s banana bread.’ It just kind of exploded a er that.”
e sweets and dispensers are “very nostalgic when you combine both together,” Todd says. “We set up at our booth as a combined table.” He also sells the dispensers at gumballgeorge.com.
As for those who helped inspire the business, Lisa says her mom is still a supporter. “We lost my mom a little over two years ago,” Todd says. “My dad still lives and loves that I’m making the candy machines. In his apartment, he’s got an old and new Gumball George on the shelf.”
Todd’s dispensers are big sellers at Christmas, Easter, and Valentine’s Day. And they’re popular with a particular group of people, he says. “Teachers are a big market for us. ey buy them, put them on their desks, and ‘bribe’ the kids with them.”
WEDNESDAY MAY 6
FRIDAY MAY 8
BERNELL JONES II RETURNS HOME
THURSDAY MAY 21 CROSSTOWN
THURSDAY MAY 28 CROSSTOWN
PHOTO: MICHAEL DONAHUE Todd and Lisa Alonzo
By
the editors at Andrews
McMeel Syndication
News You Can Use
The Nantucket Current reported on Feb. 19 that the island’s occupants were having a much better time than you were, at least if wastewater data were your gauge. Eight months’ worth of readings showed that levels of cocaine in Nantucket’s sewage were three times higher than the national average. Interestingly, levels of other drugs, such as meth and fentanyl, were lower than the national average. Nantucket Police Chief Jody Kasper said her department is focusing on illicit drugs in general, not just cocaine. “They have made a dent, but we certainly understand that the narcotics industry is the supply and demand industry, so that we need to stay on top of it,” she said. [Nantucket Current, 2/19/2026]
Overkill
The Pocono (Pennsylvania) Mountain Regional Police are looking for Sean McDermott — no, not the former Buffalo Bills coach, but a resident of a townhouse in Pocono Pines who is suspected of starting a fire that spread to other units. WPVI-TV reported that on Feb. 23, a witness said McDermott, 36, set multiple small fires in his own home to try to kill spiders. He allegedly had a small smoldering fire on his floor and placed a loveseat over it. The witness said he tried to put out the fires, but McDermott kept setting more. They left the scene, and when they returned it was fully engulfed. McDermott escaped in a U-Haul and was still at large. [WPVI, 2/24/2026]
Recurring
Theme
When a 12-year-old in Monroe, North Carolina, missed the bus to school on Feb. 18, he made the obvious choice to just drive himself. The Charlotte Observer reported that a Monroe police officer made a traffic stop around 8:30 a.m. and discovered the middleschooler behind the wheel. A school resource officer from Monroe Middle School transported the boy to school “without further incident,” officers said. The state’s social services department is following up with the family. [Charlotte Observer, 2/19/2026]
The Continuing Crisis
Drivers of two vehicles waiting at a stoplight in Omaha, Nebraska, on Feb.
24 suddenly found themselves staring at the sky, KETV reported. An SUV and a pickup truck suddenly fell into a sinkhole several feet deep; neither driver was hurt, but the SUV driver needed help from bystanders getting out of the hole. Omaha Public Works said the sinkhole was caused by an underground pressurized water leak. [KETV, 2/24/2026]
The Litigious Society
In a lawsuit filed on Feb. 19, Dennis and Patricia Swartz are seeking $150,000 in damages — each — from an incident in February 2025. The Independent reported that the couple were dining at LongHorn Steakhouse in Madison, Tennessee, when a “decorative object” (a large set of antlers) fell from the wall above them and struck them both. The lawsuit alleges the object was “improperly and inadequately secured to the wall of the premises” and the owner of LongHorn, Darden Restaurants, was negligent. The suit does not outline the Swartzes’ injuries, but says they have suffered lasting “mental anguish” and “severe personal damages.” [The Independent, 2/24/2026]
Government in Action
Long Island, New York, grandfather Seth Bykofsky went straight to the top after he was denied renewal on his car’s vanity plate, United Press International reported on Feb. 26. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles said in a letter that his plate — PB4WEGO — was in violation of their regulations. Bykofsky did not agree. “In all my years as a parent and now grandparent, the worst I’ve gotten has been a gentle roll of the eyes from my kids and grandkids,” he said. Eventually, the dispute made it to Gov. Kathy Hochul, who spoke with Bykofsky on the phone. She called the plate’s message “an important lesson.” “We’ll get it back for you,” she told him. [UPI, 2/26/2026]
Send your weird news items with subject line WEIRD NEWS to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Astronomers depend on instruments to collect the observations that fuel their work, but they don’t spend every night glued to the stars. On overcast nights, they turn to what they have already gathered, digging into past measurements and reworking the data. You’re in a comparable phase, Aries. For now, looking farther out into the glittering world won’t give you anything essential. The guidance you need is folded into what you’ve previously seen, felt, and taken in. It’s waiting for you to sort through and understand it on a deeper level.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I invite you to ruminate on death not as the conclusion of physical life, but as a metaphor for discarding what’s stale and outmoded. In that light, what would be the best deaths you could generate during the coming weeks? Use your imagination with verve and vigor as you dream up scenarios in which you purge parts of your life that are not serving your strongest, most vital yearnings. Visualize how much fresh potency that will liberate. (PS: To reiterate: You are NOT in physical danger.)
CANCER (June 21-July 22): What part of you is too tame? Maybe your imagination is politely well-behaved, or maybe your voice edits itself before it dares to say what it really thinks. Can you inspire it to be wilder and freer? Not reckless or destructive, but more honest and experimental? Here’s a suggestion: Go on regular excursions with your wild side, maybe once every two weeks. Follow it as it chooses what to explore and create. This might ultimately teach your tamed self that it’s safe to let primal wisdom help steer you.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): According to quantum physics, particles can become “entangled,” which means they share a single connected quantum state. Observing and measuring one particle reveals information about the other, even if they’re not in close proximity. Einstein called this “spooky action at a distance.” I predict that different parts of your life will also interweave in unlikely ways during the coming weeks, Leo. Moves you make in one area will seem to produce mysterious effects in other domains. For example, adjusting your morning routine may boost your creative output. Healing an old alliance could unlock a professional opportunity. Everything will be more intermingled than the visible evidence suggests.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your key power word for now is stretch. Speak it aloud multiple times every day, and write it on a card that you put in a place where you will keep seeing it. Also, make a point of physically and spiritually living out these three senses of stretch: 1. to length-
By Rob Brezsny
en, widen, or expand without snapping or tearing; 2. to unfurl your body to its full reach, boosting circulation and warding off stiffness or cramps; 3. to take on challenging tasks that push you to amplify your abilities and move beyond what you previously believed you could do.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Four oracles for you, Libra: 1. You’re in possession of keys to doors that haven’t been built yet. Tuck those keys away somewhere safe. 2. You’re ready to dream up titles for stories your life hasn’t lived through yet. Write those titles down. 3. You are being granted sneak previews of your future, even though you can’t yet see the bridge that will carry you there. Imprint these glimpses on your memory. 4. You have everything required to grow a more muscular faith that’s grounded in real evidence, not in vague hopes and wishful thinking. Take advantage.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): At the ancient Library of Alexandria, editors did far more than copy manuscripts. They compared multiple versions of important works and produced editions that aimed at definitively reliable texts. Their efforts at preservation required active intervention rather than mere reproduction. In the coming weeks, Scorpio, I think it will be fun and transformative for you to make similar adjustments to your own life story. How might your memories of the past need to be corrected and refined? How could you make your personal mythology more accurate and liberating? I invite you to revise and revivify the tales you tell yourself about your magnificent journey from the moment you were born until now.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The speed of light is how fast it travels through a vacuum. When moving through water and other media, though, light’s swiftness decreases. The fastest possible speed in the universe only applies in emptiness. If you put anything in light’s way, it slows down. Let’s use this as a metaphor for your life. I suspect you may be frustrated by how incrementally things are moving. But you’re not in a vacuum. Your bright intelligence is traveling through the complex situations that life has brought you. So of course you’re not zipping along with maximum haste. My advice: Be grateful for the slowdowns. Learn all you can about how they are educating and transforming your brilliance.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Cryptographer Claude Shannon (1916–2001) was the father of information theory. His achievements were comparable to those of Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin. Here’s one of his secrets: He kept his office filled with juggling equipment, unicycles, and mechanical
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): When lightning from a cloud hits sand or soil, the current travels down into the ground. It melts material along its path and forms tubular, branching glass structures that can penetrate deep below the surface. I believe that metaphorically similar phenomena will soon happen in your life, Taurus. Sudden insights or electrifying feelings will leave permanent traces in your psyche, creating new pathways for energy and information to flow. These disruptive inspirations and inspiring disruptions will rewire your internal circuitry, creating channels that will enhance your receptivity to future revelations. You’ll be able to absorb clues and hints from life that you weren’t tuned into before.
toys, which inspired him to solve abstract problems. His playful tinkering helped inspire breakthroughs that ultimately created the digital age. For him, recreation and innovation happened at the same time. I invite you to try a similar approach in the coming weeks, Capricorn. Blend “serious work” with “just messing around.” Be alert for key insights that emerge from improvisation and experimentation. Your diversions won’t be distractions from your purpose but rather pathways toward it.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Master calligrapher Yukimi Annand is an Aquarius. She teaches that beautiful letters emerge not just from the hand that holds the brush, but from the entire body and relaxed awareness. Breath, posture, centered weight, and quiet mind all flow through the arm to create each stroke. Trying to control the outcome with arduous effort produces rigid, lifeless art. This is an excellent teaching for you right now, Aquarius. Whatever you’re striving to accomplish, I beg you to refrain from forcing results through grueling, overly laborious exertion. Instead, align your whole being so that graceful outcomes flow naturally from your soulful coherence.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The placebo effect is getting stronger over time. Placebos in drug trials are becoming increasingly effective, to the point where it’s sometimes becoming harder to prove that actual drugs work better than sugar pills. Are we getting better at healing ourselves through belief? That would be a problem for pharmaceutical companies but interesting for the rest of us. Dear Pisces, I believe your placebo response is exceptionally strong right now. In the coming weeks, use it deliberately. Be daring and exuberant in your efforts to heal yourself.
Explore a curated market of local artists & makers, enjoy craft brews, and soak up the best of Midtown!
PRESENTED BY Sat, June 6th 10am-5pm Crosstown
THEATER By Kailynn Johnson
Jesus Christ Superstar
Playhouse on the Square delivers a rock concert with Jesus Christ, Judas Iscariot, and Mary Magdalene as frontmen.
There’s more than a “buzz” echoing from the walls of Playhouse on the Square (POTS).
As the ri of an electric guitar lls the theater, accompanied by an energy only harnessed by the most dynamic frontmen, you may not think you’re about to be transported to Jerusalem during the nal days of Jesus Christ.
is is not a theatrical performance bound by the con nes of a stage. e orchestra and actors have magically produced a sort of Biblical rock concert — one that turned me into a devoted groupie.
It’s mystifying to leave a production using the Bible as its source material with such intense feelings. Maybe it’s the beauty of a rock opera where one has to cling to every word for understanding. Creatives can certainly let the genre do the heavy li ing, and it can be easy to attribute the success of a production to its de ning tenets. However, the success of POTS’ Jesus Christ Superstar isn’t reliant on its genre.
What director Claire Kolheim and company have cra ed is so remarkable that it beckons to be expanded beyond the walls of the theater.
Jesus Christ Superstar takes an unconventional look at the nal days of Jesus Christ from the perspective of Judas Iscariot. e musical was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by Tim Rice, and was nominated for ve Tony Awards a er its 1971 debut.
Judas’ critical lens casts Jesus as a man enamored by the glamor of being
What director Claire Kolheim and company have crafted is remarkable.
the Messiah and having followers. With a seemingly clearer mind, Judas trusts in his judgment of Jesus, leading him to commit the ultimate betrayal.
Judas’ disdain is palpable, and even in scenes where he’s not singing, you can feel his anger festering to the point of convincing him he must take matters into his own hands. is speaks to the talent of Braxton Gilliland, who takes the audience into the psyche of Judas — not an easy task in a medium like theater.
Gilliland’s performance is notable as well because he doesn’t play Judas with only anger. As an audience member, you know what he’s going to do, yet
you can’t help but be invested in what pushes him over the edge. While “Superstar” is an obvious shining moment for Judas, his performances in “Blood Money/Damned For All Time,” “ e Last Supper,” and “Judas’ Death,” are as cathartic as Jesus’ “Gethsemane.”
Marvin Holt captures the audience instantly as he transforms into Jesus — exiting the overture with a so smile while taking in the magnitude of the role he’s set to play. e so ness and kindness that he portrays in the background of “Heaven on eir Minds” speaks volumes and echoes one of the most popular ways that Jesus is portrayed — a man who helped people
and was loved for it. However, with the lyrics he sings juxtaposed against the revelry and dancing of his followers, a disconnect between his purpose and what he represents to them is revealed (“Poor Jerusalem”).
Holt brings a multi-faceted portrayal of Jesus, which is crucial to the musical’s success. While many depictions of Jesus choose to focus on his su ering as a testament to his obedience, Holt delivers a layered performance de ned by complexity and humanistic emotions.
ese emotions culminate in Holt’s “Gethsemane,” which could go head to head with Ted Neeley’s in my personal playlist. Every actor in the production takes the stage and owns it, and I truly mean that. Justin Allen Tate as Pilate instantly commands the theater with his vocal talents, and while King Herod (Chris McCollum) only has one song, you’d believe he was the headliner at a Vegas residency. Jeremy Bukauskas delivers Caiaphas’ de ning bass-baritone without breaking a sweat, while Alan Toney successfully develops his own iteration of Annas.
In true concertgoer fashion, I’m experiencing a bit of post-performance sadness, but that’s okay because I will likely see this again. In fact, I think everyone should see it. I want this back on Broadway tomorrow, so if anyone knows how to make that happen — let’s do it.
Jesus Christ Superstar runs at Playhouse on the Square through May 17th.
PHOTO: HALO | COURTESY PLAHOUSE ON THE SQUARE Jesus (Marvin Holt) and his followers during the overture.
Our critic picks the best films in theaters.
Mortal Kombat II
Karl Urban returns as Johnny Cage, an American action movie star transported to a mystical dimension to fight the forces of Shao Kahn (6’8” Martyn Ford) for the freedom of Earthrealm (that’s where you live). Kitana (Adeline Rudolph), Sonya Blade (Jessica McNamee), Lord Raiden (Tadanobu Asano), Scorpion (Hiroyuki Sanada), and the giant mutant Baraka (CJ Bloomfield) are on the scene to finish him!
Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour
The first artist born in the 21st century to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 debuts her third (!) concert film. This time, it’s co-directed by none other than James
Cameron. No, she’s not appearing live on Pandora, but rather at the Manchester, England, stop of her last world tour.
Hokum
Adam Scott stars as Ohm Bauman, an author struggling to finish his hit historical lit trilogy. To clear his mind, he goes to the quaint Irish hotel where his parents honeymooned decades before. There, he will spread their ashes and seek peace. But the hotel’s ghosts, and the witch trapped in the honeymoon suite, have other ideas.
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs graduated from the beleaguered assistant to Meryl Streep’s Miranda and is now a beleaguered journalist for Runway magazine assigned to cover her old boss.
Mended Therapy
Combining mental health with a love of fashion, creativity, and sustainability, Mended Therapy was born. Ashley wants to show that although things may seem like they cannot get better, there is hope. Just like a mended piece of clothing is brought new life, the same can be said of us. She is here to walk with you through this journey with laughter, creativity, and challenging your beliefs about yourself. She is MENDED (and constantly mending). She hopes you will let her join you as you MEND.
Ashley specializes in working with LGBTQ+ populations and mood disorders.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit mendedtherapypllc.com.
She currently accepts Aetna, Cigna,
LEGAL NOTICES
2000 CHEVROLET S-10
Light brown pickup truck.
VIN: 1GCCS19W5YK246028
If anyone has any interest in this vehicle, call 901-289-9680 within 10 days of this notice.
AUTO AUCTION
Culp and Sons Towing, 3614 Jackson
Ave., Memphis, TN 38108, on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2 pm.
In this installment of Memphis Is My Boyfriend: Adventures in cra beer.
I know you all are used to me talking about my teenagers. And great teens they are. But this summer is for me and my friends, Tawanna and Laniece. We are outside, y’all! We love going out and enjoying ourselves. We work out together. We pray together. We even do “old lady” cra s together.
is month we’re focusing on cra beer. Memphis has more than a dozen breweries, all showcasing di erent brew styles and avor depths. We carefully selected places that o ered a variety of cra beers. IPAs, stouts, sours, pilsners, and bonus points if they had any barrel-aged beer. We wanted bold avors and a good time, a chance to make friends with strangers, take up space, and laugh out loud. In short, we wanted to have a good time with Memphis!
MFS
Patricia Lockhart and friends are all about getting out and enjoying a variety of local beers along the way.
We started o with a visit to Memphis Filling Station (MFS) in Downtown Memphis. I rst came across MFS at the Science of Beer event hosted by the Pink Palace. (If you have never been, you need to make it a priority next year.) Even then, I knew they were something special. ey have 16 beers on tap and o en keep one hidden up their sleeve. All of their beers have a mix of bold, layered tastes. My current favorite is the Heather and Honey. It’s a 10 percent ABV Scotch Ale, and it’s good. Tawanna fell in love with the Crescent Wrench Rosé. It reminded her of a lot of wine, which she loved! Laniece enjoyed a beer slushie and the Tongue and Grove, a pale ale with 6 percent ABV. For eats, I went with the South Main Italian Sausage Calzone. e heat and the honey in that calzone are amazing. Oh, and besides good beer and great food, they also have unlimited popcorn!
Cooper Project House
e Cooper Project House is located in Midtown on South Cooper Street. It’s the type of place you can stay all day, from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Why, you ask? Because they serve co ee in the morning and beer in the a ernoon and evening. My kind of place! For this article, we’re going to focus on their beer. My current hyper xation is the BBA Barleywine Beer. It’s 10 percent ABV and full of fun! Oh, the Toasted Coconut Porter, 7 percent ABV, is also a favorite of mine. Some people say stouts and porters are not summer beers. As for me and my tastebuds, we drink dark all year round! My friends loved the Public Choice and the Belgian IPA. Our beers paired perfectly with the patio and sunshine. And if we were to get hungry, their classic pepperoni pizza would do the trick.
Hammer and Ale
Oh, Hammer and Ale! You have impressed me today! A er leaving the Cooper House Project, we walked across the street. e patio was packed with people who looked like they were enjoying themselves. So we decided to join them. Upon walking in, we were greeted by two handsome bartenders. ey gave us the warmest Hammer and Ale introduction. Here’s what we learned. Hammer and Ale is a taproom that o ers beers, wine, and spirits. We ordered three beers and a rum-based, sour cocktail. I had the Stout of Tune, a mere 5.8 percent ABV. Tawanna and Laneice both had the Hoochie Coochie from a local brewery, Soul & Spirits. is IPA clocks in at 7 percent ABV. While we didn’t order food this time, I do feel like a hotdog would go well with any beer.
Soul & Spirits
Our nal shindig was at Soul & Spirits Brewery. is brewery has some of the best beer in the city, mane! eir “Sauce” beer is so unique and good. Even people who aren’t “beer drinkers” love this beer. e Sauce’s avor base changes all the time. I’ve had Strawberry Sauce, Orange Sauce, Pineapple Sauce, and Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce. And all of them were delicious! And that’s the case with all of their beer. All the avors are bold and crisp and outstanding. Tawanna and I shared a beer ight. We had e Sauce (of course), Cupid, Day Dreamer, Hoochie Coochie, Walk on Rye, and Love Joy. I loved the Walk on Rye the most … and it isn’t a high gravity beer! is summer? We’re outside … responsibly. Just good beer, good food, and even better company. Oh, and if you’re wondering if we did all of this in one day, just remember we are all over the age of 40. We are not about that life anymore! LOL!
Patricia Lockhart is a native Memphian who loves to read, write, cook, and eat. By day, she’s a librarian and writer, but by night … she’s asleep.
