So I have been working doubles non stop for the past week or so in order to save up the extra money for this tattoo that I'm getting this week. Thats the sorry excuse I have for not posting very much lately, but I have accumulated a MASS of midtown rumors in the last week or so and wanted to pass them along to everyone. If you have any extra information about anything, please post a comment on the blog so everyone can stay informed.

1. The Commercial Appeal reported last week that the natural foods market that is supposed to be going in where the old Burke's Books was is going to take a bit longer than anticipated. Jimmy's Market, owned by the original owner of Squash Blossom, is going to be opening in early 2008 instead of later this Summer. Apparently, the owner, Jimmy Lewis, just wants to make sure all the design elements are perfect and if you want a peek at some ideas that are in store, check out www.jimmysmarket.com

2. There is a new mexican place opening up on Union across from Kimbrough Towers/Liqours. It's called El Mezcal and they have another location over near Poplar and Perkins on Perkins ext. Pretty decent stuff and its alot closer to the Central Gardens and Medical district folks than Molly's or El Porton. Should be worth a closer look.

3. The Madison Flame is up for lease and looking for a new owner. The Flame (formely the Antenna) is $2150 per month. The Flame's lease is up at the end of August. Could be a potentially cool place for a nice addition to the neighborhood. Also in the same area, the Strings and Things building has been bought (1.6 M) and the new owner says he's going to make it a retail plaza with entrance off of Willett that will feature a 1500-2000 seat smoke-free venue. They also bought the seedy apartments to the south (Monroe & Willett) and are leveling it for the "Plaza Entrance" that will flow in to the building.

4. Supposedly, Central Liqours, near the intersection of Central and Cooper, is moving across the street to the old Humane Society building. They reportedly just got approval for the whole move. No idea what will go into the liquor store spot, but several people have told me that it is going to be a new somewhat upscale restaurant in combination with the vacant antique store next door. Hopefully the old 2 Way will get something going soon too.

5. The Buccaneer is going to take another stab at a Ladies Night starting next week. It's supposed to include top shelf danceable 60s and 70s tunes and the drink specials are going to include special drinks created just for the night as well as regular mixed drinks...should be a good time. Also, they plan on doing some themed ladies night as well...stay tuned for more info on this one. Specifically the actual night its on.

6. Melo's on Madison has long been an eyesore for everyone that has to drive or live by it, but while at dinner at Umai the other night, I noticed that it was all boarded up and the windows were covered up as well. I thought maybe this was a sign of some renovations for a re-opening and the word on the street is that the owner of Dan McGuinness has purchased the property and is going to open up a new restaurant/bar to compete with the Blue Monkey across the street.

7. Don't forget about the Taste of Cooper Young going on this Thursday night. For more info, see my previous post about it here.