Fishbone Alley
Gulfport, Mississippi
When visitors stroll through Fishbone Alley today, there is little trace of what was once a forgotten utility alley barely a year ago. In 2016, the city of Gulfport decided to transform the alley into an urban event space, placing an open call for local artists to redesign the strip. The response exceeded all expectations, as people from all different ages and backgrounds stepped forward to pour their creativity into the community area.
“We’ve got a 17-year-old senior doing one painting project, and a Waffle House line cook doing another project,” said Chris Vignes, public information officer for the city of Gulfport. “And they’ve all got these different vibes with a really great feel to them.”
After Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, Gulfport had no more than five or six restaurants in operation. Today, that number is pushing 40, and Fishbone Alley reflects that growth.
“It’s given a whole new energy to an already vibrant downtown,” said Vignes.
Near the alley entrance, a billowing octopus stretches across the “dumpster corral” fence at the Fishbone Alley entrance, which hides restaurant trash cans from view. One woman is working on a mural of a huge wave that appears to be crashing over the buildings; others plan to paint stencils of crabs and other animals using water-activated paint so that the alley becomes a whole new scene every time it rains.
In addition to the artwork, the alley features a vintage walkway made with brick pavers from 1906. Globe lights stretch across the buildings to create a bright, friendly space for evening social outings. Thanks to the city’s recent “go cups” ordinance, people can carry their alcoholic drinks between the bars and restaurants, mingling along outdoor patios.
As a result, many of the bars and restaurants along 13th and 14th streets now have a new front door. With this influx of traffic, one bar owner embraced the change by painting the alley entrance in bright colors and refurbishing parts of his establishment.
Along with concerts and other events, the city is also working with Cinema by the Shore to organize movie nights on a projection screen in Fishbone Alley. They hope to incorporate a variety of themes, from family classics like “The Wizard of Oz” to date-night films and holiday favorites.
Music City Roots
Franklin, Tennessee
Located in the thriving music hub of Franklin, Tennessee, in a former factory building, Music City Roots brings audiences together each week through the universal language of music. The radio show takes place every Wednesday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and broadcasts live nationwide on Hippie Radio 94.5 as well as on PBS television stations.
Each show features four musical groups that perform in separate segments and discuss their work with Grammy-winning host Jim Lauderdale, along with Nashville star Keith Bilbrey, the announcer. All genres come together in this music hall, from rock to country and Americana. At the end, the bands combine their styles in a one-of-a-kind free-style jam session.
“If you’re a music lover, then you’re going to love it. And if you’re not, then it’ll make you one,” said Matthew Maxey, public relations coordinator at Visit Franklin. Notable musicians from past shows have included Ashley Campbell, the Doobie Brothers and John Oates from Hall and Oates.
Groups receive discounted rates and are welcome to add food or drink vouchers to their tickets. With the venue’s ample space beyond the entertainment hall, many groups reserve a side room in advance to enjoy a private dinner before the show. Music City Roots collaborates with Monell’s Dining and Catering to host private functions. Shuttle and ground transportation is also available to and from any location in central Tennessee.
