Jody Stephens, photographed in the courtyard at Ardent Studios. I'm always really excited when I run into Jody Stephens (something that usually happens at Whole Foods). He's one of the friendliest people in town, and he gives great hugs. He's also drummer for legendary Memphis power-pop band Big Star and the studio manager at Ardent. In other news: - Booker T. Washington High School is one of six schools that are competing to have President Obama speak at their commencement in May. In order to have the President speak, though, BTWHS needs you to check out their video, read their student essays and then vote for them. They're #6 out of six on the list. Vote! - The Memphis Gay and Lesbian Community Center needs help. As a result of less grant money and rising costs, they're facing a budget crisis that could mean the end of some (or, at worst, all) of their programs. Read this letter from the center for more information on what you can do to help. - Here's something to help you make the most of your Memphis in May experience: a brand-new, really sweet MIM iPhone and Android app. The app, which was designed locally by Speak Creative, has schedule information for all of the festival events, a build-you-own schedule tool, and a list of all of the barbecue teams by name and booth number.