Ballooning is an early morning sport, and the main race at the annual Tunica Balloon Bash in Tunica, Mississippi last Saturday was no exception. I stumbled into the Tunica National golf course clubhouse at 6 a.m. to be paired with a pilot and listen to the short pre-race meeting.

The race wasn't really a race at all. Instead, pilots had to pass their balloons over three large targets and toss colored beanbags at them. Other than the targets having specfic closing times (after which, no beanbags would be counted), speed wasn't a factor.

On Saturday night, Memphis' best break dancers met at the Madison Dance Complex to show off their skills and compete for some sweet, sweet prize money.

Photographer Ziggy Tucker was there, and he sent us some incredible photos of the b-boys in action.

Happy Monday, y'all.

Today in Memphis, congratulations are in order, as is a new Huey burger. Also, you might want to cancel your plans tonight in favor of a little road trip.

All of that (and more) is in today's Memphis news update:

You said it, strange pony car.

Meet Clay Hardee, aka Clay Otis, a Memphis musician, filmmaker and man about town. Here, he answers my questions about his records, his inspirations, Memphians and his epic quest to get people to dance at shows.

(Photo credit: Casey Latolois)

Name: Clay Hardee, aka, Clay Otis

Happy Thursday, y'all.

Today in Memphis, Elvis Week is nigh. Also, there's a new downtown pint night, a Who's Who of Memphis Twitter users, two great movie screenings, and a brand new Gibson. Also, heaven is located (as we all suspected it would be) on Summer Avenue.

Jamie Harmon's beloved Amurica Photo Booth isn't coming off of the streets any time soon, but it is getting a permanent home in Crosstown.

Go

Question: how well do you know your neighbors?

I'll admit that, despite living in the same house for the past four years, I only know the people that live immediately next door to me. The only time I ever see the other people on my block involves quick waves as we pass each other.

If you're like me (and I suspect a lot of you are), tonight's the night to fix it.
 

Happy Monday!

Today in Memphis, we head back to school, get D-ed up by Tony Allen, and consider the fancy new Midtown Kroger. Also, Kanye West has his eye on Graceland.

All of that (and more) is in today's Memphis News Update:
 

Happy Friday, y'all! Here are the five events you won't want to miss in Memphis this weekend:

- Wheelchair Basketball Game, Mississippi Blvd. Church, Friday, 5:30 p.m., $5 adults / $3 kids