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Photography by Austin Stuart with 35North Films
OUTTAKES
18 ONE Night Gala
American River Run
Get Down & Derby Gala
Overton Park Shell Summer Concert Series
Le Bon Appetit
Memphis 2024 Opening Celebration
Orpheum High School Music Awards 30 Live at the Garden Dierks Bentley
Michael Allen Retirement Party
Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival
MOGA Memphis Open House Celebration
Krewes for Kids 40
Memphis Week 2024 42 Art & Fashion: Runway at the Museum
32 Growing a Legacy: Michael Allen Bids Farewell to the Memphis Botanic Garden
Fashion: Summertime Chic
53 Creating Rooms of Hope: Adalyia Parker’s Mission with the 29:11 Project
56 A Designing Life: A Conversation with Bill Nixon 59 4Memphis Reads 63 Ken Hall's July/August Art Events 64 Legendary Airwaves: KWAM Radio ABOUT THE COVER: Dress, earrings and purse from Kittie Kyle Shoes from Oak Hall
The ONE Night Gala was one heck of a night April 13 at Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis to benefit Regional One Health. Guests enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing to a spectacular line up of live music including funk and R&B artist Jerome Chism, the Royal Studios House Band, and special guest Grammy-winner Flo Rida - all to raise money for Regional One Health to enhance patient care for our community, and this year’s proceeds will benefit Regional One’s newest service line, Oncology. regionalonehealth.org
1. Anna Bishop, Dr. Erica Mitchell, Jon Haas & Manoucheka Thermitus 2. Flo Rida 3. Tammie Ritchey & Mary Catherine Burke 4. Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell 5. Johnny & Merry Moore 6. A.C. Wharton, Sally Pace & Alfred Degrafinreid 7. Scot & Valerie Bearup 8. Amy & Emmel Golden
9. Jerome Chism 10. Dr. Reginald & Erica Coopwood
Rice Law
For three generations, the Rices have handled divorce and family law matters in Memphis and across Tennessee. Their co-authored book, “The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice,” published by the American Bar Association, is recognized across the country as the national standard. After rigorous examination, contested case reviews, and recommendations from judges and fellow attorneys, both of the Rices are Board Certified in Family Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
The Rices bring over 75 years of experience combined with up-to-date technology, including 128 bit encryption of client information and communication. Rice Law handles your family law matter with depth of experience including a team of nationally recognized attorneys and Advanced Certified Paralegals. Rice Law’s Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 listed mediators provide valuable insight into resolving your matter quickly.
Whether you find yourself dealing with divorce, mediation, custody, child support, domestic violence or any other matter involving family law,
Great American River Run
Memphis
in May
Photography by Frank Chin
The Great American River Run was held Memorial Day weekend, and runners raced through Downtown and along the Mississippi River. The course ended at AutoZone Park with one of the best post-race parties with sliders and beer. This is such a popular run for everyone to join the healthy fun at the kickoff of summer in the Bluff City.
Photo by: Courtland & Co
Get Down & Derby Gala
The Down Syndrome Association of Memphis
Photography by Caroline Johnson Photography
The Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & the Mid South recently held their 13th annual Get Down & Derby Gala at The Great Hall in Germantown. Entertainment featured the fabulous Rob Haynes Band with a guest appearance from Company d Dancers, a fancy hat parade, and hors d'oeuvres from various restaurants from the greater Memphis area. The gala was held in conjunction with the 150th Kentucky Derby Run for the Roses, and guests viewed the Derby as it was live streamed at the event. dsamemphis.org
1. Nolan Johnson, McKenzie Meadors, Mary Lynn Fisher, Vashti Ricks, Yolanda Cleave & Thomas Pritchard 2. Cullen, Kim & Fred Hiatt
3. Kevin & Emilee Garrett 4. Rob Haynes Band 5. Schorr Behnke & Brian Green 6. Tansy Davis, Brenda Islam & Kimisha Jones 7. Rick Rosenblum, Randa Rosenblum, Byron Ferguson, Anna Ferguson, Jerry Williams & Toni Williams
Michael Agee
Thomas Christenbury
Charles Hardee
Rick Humphreys
Staci Jackson
Brooks Monypeny Phoenix
Overton Park Shell Summer Concert Series
Sister Hazel
Upcoming Fall Concert Series August 30-October 20
Photography by Frank Chin
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Le Bon Appetit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital
Photography by Ken Hall
Le Bon Appetit (LBA) was Le Bonheur's party of the year, and what a party it was! Held June 8 at The Kent in downtown Memphis, Le Bon Appetit featured more than 30 of the nation’s most talented chefs with one goal: to offer great food for a great cause. Chef Kelly English is not only the face of LBA but he is also one of its founders, and in its sixth year this biennial culinary event has raised more than $1 million for specialized medical equipment, child-specific programming and technology for the Mid-South’s first and only comprehensive hospital dedicated to kids. A special Chef’s Party was held on the eve of LBA at English’s restaurant The Second Line to thank and celebrate the chefs. lebonheur.org
1. Rep. John Gillespie & Mackenzie Daniel 2. Sheila English, Chef Kelly English, Stacey & Darrell Greene 3. Jacey Wood & Katie Diley 4. Emily Thomas & Ada Askew 5. Amy Bellamy, Mickey & Laura Moore 6. Mae & Trish Forsdick 7. Amanda & Chef Dave Krog 8. Nicolette & Rory Thomas 9. Ronak & Ruchi Patel Desai, Robin & Rick Hanna
Memphis 2024 at the Dixon is a celebration of current Memphis artists. With diversity of style, medium, size, and color scheme, it perfectly illustrates the variety and vibrancy of the Memphis arts community. Their artwork is seen around town in galleries, lobbies, and other settings, and most of the names are familiar but the synergy of having them all together is simply joyful. The youth education staff put a great spin on the idea of emerging artists with an accompanying show of children’s art. dixon.org
1. Aurelia Kyles & Janet Scott 2. Keith & Katie Cole 3. Arpi Bazarian & Cat Pena 4. Joe Pizzirusso & Brett Robbs 5. Emily Ozier, Lori Rawlinson & Sowgan Sheikholeslami 6. Bill & Margaret Craddock 7. Kiersten Williams, Eric Harris & Carl Moore 8. Nikii Richey 9. Joshua & Danny Broadway
Orpheum High School Music Awards
Photography by Carla McDonald
On May 23, the Orpheum Theatre Group announced the award recipients of the 15th annual Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards. The very exciting occasion was a culmination of a year-long program bringing students from all over the Mid-South together for an intensive week of team building, collaboration, and celebration of musical theatre. This year’s ceremony also included some new elements including members of the Memphis Youth Symphony Program participating in the orchestra pit and the creation of a new award that will annually honor a production for Outstanding Sound Design & Execution. Students from 50 participating schools across three states gathered on the Orpheum stage to celebrate their peers' on- and off-stage achievements in musical theatre. orpheum-memphis.com
Live at the Garden Dierks Bentley
Photography by Steve Roberts
Michael Allen Retirement Party
Memphis Botanic Garden
Photography by Steve Roberts
The Memphis Botanic Garden hosted a celebration sendoff for the retiring Executive Director Michael Allen. Staff, family, and friends gathered to honor his tenure with the Garden the past seven years. Ron Olson presented Michael with a special painting to commemorate his achievements. To read Michael’s reflection of his time there, please see page 32. Congratulations and enjoy retirement! membg.org
Growing a Legacy:
Michael Allen Bids Farewell to the Memphis Botanic Garden
By Michael Allen
It’s been a good run.
In January of 2017, I was given the responsibility to watch over the Memphis Botanic Garden, our city’s 96-acre, center-city oasis, and for the past 7 and a half years it has been my privilege to exercise that duty.
I’ve referred to my tenure at the Garden as the time of the “4 C’s”; Capital Campaigns, Construction, and COVID, along with the introduction of seasonal exhibits, measured growth in the use of our outdoor stage, and the strengthening of our balance sheet.
During this time, we have raised over $12M, and with those funds, we have undertaken 14 different capital projects. Mostly, these were updates and upgrades to existing facilities, gardens, and grounds, such as the modernization of our Visitors Center, updates to Hardin Hall, a complete re-do of our Water Garden, enhancements to our Woodland and Delta Garden, new way-finding signage and more. I always wanted to leave the Garden better than I found it, and I think I’ve done that.
This past spring after more than a year of construction, we opened two new structures; a Family Pavilion on the south end of our campus, answering a call of parents, grandparents, and educators who had for many years implored us to add bathrooms closer to where so many of our field trips and family activities occur. And in May, we dedicated the new Jim Strickland Youth Education and Tropical Plant House; a 3,400+ square-foot, state-ofthe-art glasshouse dedicated to the display of hard-to-find plants from six of the world’s seven continents. Located directly along Cherry Road, this building invites passers-by to come into the Garden and begin exploring its many beautiful features.
Of course, for any CEO over the past few years, COVID was an unanticipated and unique challenge. We navigated these unchartered waters along with our other non-profit colleagues, and while we were closed for six weeks by mandate, we reopened the first day government officials permitted us to do so. We quickly found that having a 96-acre, outdoor space in the midst of a global pandemic was a godsend for our community. Our fellow citizens
flocked to our grounds finding respite amongst the 30 specialty gardens, open lawns, and miles of accessible pathways. I was particularly proud of our staff, who during this time of uncertainty kept the gardens and grounds pristine. Unlike other organizations, we did not have to institute any layoffs and none of our staff missed a paycheck.
In 2017, we introduced Big Bugs at the Garden, this was the first in a series of seasonal exhibits that we have been bringing to Memphis almost every year. Since “Bugs” we’ve had exhibits featuring Origami, Rich Soil, and of course the 2022 blockbuster - Alice's Adventures at the Garden. Watch for an announcement soon about our 2025 exhibit. I promise you will be pleased!
A few years before my arrival, my predecessor Jim Duncan built the outdoor stage in what is now known as the Radians Amphitheater. This stage is home to the long-running and critically acclaimed Live at the Garden summer concert series along with a select number of newer events. We have tried to use this stage with a bit more frequency but also with consideration toward our neighbors, knowing that it resides amidst a residential neighborhood. Less interesting, but every bit important, has been the improvement to our financial stability. Non-profits, almost by their nature, go through cycles of financial stress along with periods of relative surplus. My goal over these past 7 and a half years was to increase our financial reserves such that - with good management - the Garden could weather future storms. To that end, we have tripled our financial reserves and put into place guidelines on how and when these reserves can and will be tapped. With good stewardship, the Memphis Botanic Garden is in a place financially where it can withstand anything that comes our way.
The Memphis Botanic Garden is one of our city’s most treasured, but also under-appreciated assets. If you and your family have not made this 96-acre green space a part of your Memphis experience, I urge you to do so, and if you see me out there, please say hello.
Michael Allen retired from the Memphis Botanic Garden and full-time work on June 30, 2024. Allen spent 25 years with International Paper in Memphis and three other cities, owned his own business, and was past CEO of Catholic Charities of West Tennessee (2010 - 2016) prior to joining the Garden in 2017.
Mon-fri 3-5pm
Earle talks with Sherry May, Co-Director of Live at the Garden, about the fabulous 2024 Concert Series.
Sponsored by
Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival Porter-Leath
Photography by Molly Berry
Porter-Leath’s 31st Annual Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival kicked off the spring season and offered fun for the whole family! Held April 21 in Downtown Memphis at Riverside Drive, the day’s festivities included crawfish bobbing, eating, racing contests, and live rhythm and blues music. The Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival is the largest one-day crawfish festival in the Mid-South, with over 30,000 attendees and thousands of pounds of fresh Louisiana crawfish, all to raise money to support local children and families through Porter-Leath's services. porterleath.org
Open House Celebration MOGA Memphis
Photography by Ken Hall
MOGA Memphis hosted an open house June 5 at their new East location, located in Opera Memphis’ former building. To honor Opera Memphis, the open house included a performance by Opera Memphis while guests enjoyed tours and refreshments. This newest MOGA facility enables the group to own their own buildings with convenient parking for patients. MOGA is the largest OB/GYN practice in the Mid-South with three primary offices in DeSoto County, Wolfchase/Bartlett, and East Memphis. mogamd.com
1. Lynn Garibaldi & Haley Gore 2. Katherine Montgomery & Amy Carter 3. Jennifer Espitia, Jacqui Tello, Jenney Dewey & Andrea Giddens
4. Blake Payne & Bruce Meisterman 5. Stacey Hyde & Robert Burns 6. George Wortham & Andy Marr 7. Daniel & Diane Weickenand, Kelly Pfrommer
8. Nikki Gast, Paula Casey, Laura Cantrell, Jennifer Snow, Allison Bosse & Aric Giddens 9. Terry Williams, Heather Wherry, Anita & Bob Beachum
10. Crista Crisler, Tim Finnell & Dee Sanders 11. Morgan Kingsfield
Krewes for Kids
Carnival Memphis
Photography by Keith Renard/Skipworth
The always fun Krewes for Kids party featured A Night in Margaritaville on April 26 for guests to enjoy a night of festivities at the Children’s Museum of Memphis benefitting the 2024 Carnival Memphis Children’s Charities: Binghampton Christian Academy, Church Health, and Girls, Inc of Memphis. Carnival Memphis Children’s Charities Initiative has raised more than $4.5 million, with matching funds, over the years for local children’s charities in the Mid South! carnivalmemphis.org
Carnival Memphis Week 2024
Photography by Keith Renard/Skipworth Photography
HIP HIP HOORAY! The week of events kicked off with a huge crowd at the formal Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball held May 31 at the Hilton Memphis Hotel. Over fifty daytime and evening events were attended by King Kevin Kimery, Queen Mary Franklin Williams, and President Chip Campbell during the week, culminating with a record-breaking $525,000 with matching funds raised for this year’s Carnival Children’s Charities: Binghampton Christian Academy, Church Health, and Girls Inc. Congratulations to everyone who was a part of the 93rd anniversary of this Memphis tradition! carnivalmemphis.org
Art & Fashion: Runway at the Museum
Runway photos by Angel Ortez Photography
Art & Fashion: Runway at the museum continued
Event photography by Ken Hall
It was a spectacular evening of fashion as Memphis’ own rising talent gathered at the Brooks Museum of Art for Art & Fashion: Runway at the Museum! More than 30 fashion designers and wearable art creators showcased their designs in conjunction with the Christian Siriano: People Are People exhibit on display at the Brooks through August 4. The inaugural event was a unique collaboration between the University of Memphis Fashion Program, the U of M Art and Design, and the Brooks. Lauren Draffin and Sonin Myatt were at the helm of the event, which featured creations by students that were fascinating and fabulous. An early sell out, there’s no doubt that this will be an annual event! brooksmuseum.org
1. Maija White & Mandy Simpson 2. Joelle Scholl & Cristina McCarter 3. Carron Daniels & Lesley Gudehus 4. Anna Cardona & Ada Askew 5. Melissa Whitby, Marilyn & Drew Koester 6. Barbara Draffin & Lauren Draffin 7. Crystal & Matt Smart 8. Jafina Griffin & Toneka Cole
Summertime Chic
Dress and shoes from The Pink Door
Bracelets from Social: A Shop for Gracious Living
Photography: McKendree Walker
Model: Morgan Gaines
Hair: Jonathan Watkins / Eden Spa & Laser
Dress, earrings and purse from Kittie Kyle Sunglasses and shoes Model's own
Top, skirt, earrings, bag and shoes from Monkee's of Germantown
Dress from Oak Hall Necklace from Eden Spa & Laser
Shorts, blouse and purse from Oak Hall
Earrings from Social: A Shop for Gracious Living
Blouse, jeans, purse and shoes from
Oak Hall
Dress, earrings and purse from Kittie Kyle Shoes from Oak Hall
Society of Entrepreneurs Gala
Photography by Ken Hall
The annual Society of Entrepreneurs Gala was a celebration of the inspiration, dedication, and can-do spirit that has made the Memphis area a hotbed of innovation for decades. The packed room contained well-known heads of companies and newly minted startup leaders, all sharing the drive to implement a vision. The new inductees to the Society that were honored were Chris Brubaker, Stacy McCall, and the Grinders – Justin, Brett, and Fred. The honor of Master Entrepreneur was bestowed this year on Bob McEniry, former chairman of nexAir. Along with the toasts and accolades, guests were treated to a sumptuous meal by Karen Carrier and music by the Gerry Finney Band. soememphis.com
1. Hollie & Brad Federman 2. Maritza Davila, Linn Sitler & Jon Sparks 3. Tom & Susan Stephenson 4. Amy Sowell & Frank Kemker 5. Jan & Ron Coleman 6. Andrew Bailey & Dr. Zaneta Ivy-Bailey 7. Denise & David Stewart 8. Megan & Nick Dwyer 9. Mary & Joe McDonald, Denise Higdon, Walker Uhlhorn 10. Kayla Graff & Penelope Fisher
Forever Ready Productions, headquartered in Binghampton, hosted a large crowd on April 24 to celebrate its 10th anniversary and new expansion. The event took place at Junior Achievement on Tillman Street. Since inception, Forever Ready has helped nonprofits raise more than $15 million through impact-focused video storytelling. Congratulations and here’s to many more celebrations! foreverreadyllc.com
Blues Music Awards
Photography by Kendrick Hunt & Christopher Caldwell
The 45th annual Blues Music Awards were held on May 9, and the red carpet was rolled out to honor the best in blues. The grand hall at the Renasant Convention Center was filled with over 1,000 guests as 25 awards were presented and more than a dozen performances by the blues’ biggest artists. The Blues Foundation produces the annual event and is home to the Blues Hall of Fame Museum. A cutting-edge new exhibit was recently unveiled at the headquarters on South Main utilizing an AI hologram of blues legend Taj Mahal. It is only the second exhibit of its kind in America, and Taj acts as a virtual tour guide through the hall of fame. A great addition as Memphis continues to make music history! blues.org
A beautiful array of art from area artists supported a worthy cause at Art of Caring. Camp Good Grief, which helps children deal with the loss of parents or siblings, holds a special place in many hearts as witnessed by the large crowd of attendees and the participation of many artists. Free-standing kiosks offered an attractive way to hang the artworks while maximizing the ease of getting a look at it. With delicious snacks from A Moveable Feast and an outstanding jazz performance by the Will Lang Jazz Quartet, the FedEx Event Center was aglow with good will. A very special display was lovingly created to celebrate the lives of five longtime art donors who passed away since last year’s event. baptistgriefcenters.org
1. Petra Sneed & Lisa Borden 2. Carolyn & Mike Moss, Connie Lampen 3. Pooja & Kush Shah 4. Tiffany Klemis & Melissa Smith 5. Kim Cherry & Ellen Cox 6. Melissa Surles & Beverly Jordan 7. Judy Holland & Jenny Nevels 8. Lisa Shurden, Mary & Jimmy White 9. Pam Crislip & Stacey Johnson
Creating Rooms of Hope: Adalyia Parker's Mission with The 29:11 Project
By April Carter, Chief Program Officer, Tennessee Nonprofit Network
In the heart of Memphis, a small nonprofit is making a big impact on families transitioning out of homelessness. The 29:11 Project, named after the comforting biblical verse Jeremiah 29:11, is not just about providing physical spaces but restoring hope and dignity to children through personalized "Rooms of Hope." I had the privilege of speaking with Adalyia Parker, the passionate Executive Director behind this initiative, to delve into her journey and the meaningful work of her organization.
The 29:11 Project began in 2020 as a heartfelt response to a community need. Adalyia, leveraging her background in corporate sales and community involvement, recognized the gap in support for families leaving shelters or foster care. "I realized that families needed more than just a place to stay; they needed a home," she shared. This realization sparked her initiative, initially fueled by social media outreach and grassroots donations.
Adalyia's transition from corporate America to nonprofit leadership wasn't without its challenges. "I didn't have all the answers," she admitted. "But I learned that progress comes from taking small steps every day." This humble approach has guided The 29:11 Project's growth, focusing on building trusting relationships with partner organizations like the Dorothy Day House and Youth Villages to identify families in need of support.
Central to the Project's mission is the creation of Rooms of Hope, where Adalyia and her team transform empty spaces into personalized sanctuaries for children. "It's not just about furnishing a room; it's about empowering children to envision a brighter future," Adalyia emphasized. Each room is meticulously designed with input from the parents and children themselves, ensuring it reflects their personalities and aspirations.
The impact of these rooms goes beyond aesthetics. Adalyia shared touching
stories of children overcoming fears and finding solace in their new spaces. "One mom told me her son started sleeping in his bed again after years of fear after seeing his new personally furnished room," she recounted. Such moments highlight the Project's broader goal: to strengthen family bonds and empower children to rewrite their narratives.
Beyond individual transformations, Adalyia is pioneering community engagement initiatives like Hope Fest, leveraging her extensive network in the apartment industry to mobilize support. "Giving back isn't just about charity; it's about fostering a culture of compassion," she explained. These efforts aim not only to provide material support but also to instill a sense of community responsibility among donors and volunteers.
Adalyia's personal journey and commitment to service shine through her work with The 29:11 Project. A graduate of the University of Memphis and a fitness enthusiast who's lost 75 pounds, she embodies resilience and a deep-rooted desire to effect positive change. Her story resonates with a belief that transforming communities starts with empowering individuals— especially children—to believe in their potential.
As our conversation concluded, Adalyia expressed her vision for the future—a future where every child experiences the stability and hope of a home. "We're just getting started," she smiled, hinting at plans for expansion and deeper community partnerships. Her optimism and determination leave no doubt that The 29:11 Project will continue to be a pillar of hope for Memphis families in need. Her dedication reminds us that, even in challenging times, there is always "Room for Hope.”
To learn more about The 29:11 Project or to become a Room for Hope monthly donor of $29.11, visit the2911project.org.
Photography by Adalyia Parker
Literatini Literacy Mid-South
Photography by Frank Chin
It was an ideal summer evening as friends gathered at Novel for a night of fun, food, and live music to support Literacy Mid-South. The party was inside of Novel and also outdoors under the stars at Laurelwood Shopping Center, and the weather on June 8 was perfect. Guests enjoyed bites from several local restaurants, plus a Cocktail Competition with 11 bars and restaurants competing for the win. Old Dominick was the common spirit used, and the bartenders vied for the top honor. It was a fabulous party, a sell-out crowd, and a good time to support the work of Literacy Mid-South. literacymidsouth.org
Literatini 2024 Winners:
UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN
JUDGE’S CHOICE AWARD WINNER: LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD
1.5 oz Old Dominick Honeybell Vodka
0.5 oz limoncello
0.25 oz aperol
0.75 oz house orange syrup
0.5 oz lemon juice
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker; shake and pour into a chilled glass. Cheers!
LAVENDER DREAM MARTINI
THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD WINNER: COCKTAIL CUTIES
Old Dominick Citrus Vodka
Fresh lemon juice
Sweet ‘n sour mixer
Triple sec
Lavender liqueur
Lavender infused coconut water
Pour ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Rim a martini glass with lavender infused sugar. Pour cocktail into the glass, garnish with a lemon slice and a blackberry, and serve smoking. Enjoy!
YEEHAW COCKTAIL
THE MIXOLOGIST MAESTRO AWARD WINNER: VILLA CASTRIOTI
Old Dominick Gin
Cereal milk
Juice mixture
To make “cereal milk” - combine your choice of cereal with whole milk; allow to sit 1-1.5 hours. Strain the milk to remove the cereal; discard cereal.
To make the juice mixture, combine strawberry puree, freshly squeezed citrus juice, pineapple juice, and vanilla syrup. Mix gin and juice mixture, then slowly pour in the cereal milk; refrigerate 6-8 hours. Before serving, fine strain the mixture 2-3 times, then strain the cocktail through cheesecloth, and pour into a glass. Serve, sip, enjoy!
A Designing Life: A Conversation with Bill Nixon
By Sandi Butler Hughes
Photography by McKendree Walker
Architectsdesign the places we live, work, and play, and the spaces they create are where we spend much of our time. William “Bill” Nixon is a retired architect who helped shape Memphis, working with everyone from Kemmons Wilson to Elvis Presley.
Bill Nixon was not born in Memphis, or the USA for that matter, but he created contributions to the businesses and people that Memphis is known for. Born in England, Bill moved to the Bluff City in 1970 to open an office for the architecture and engineering firm he was working for in the UK, and he has been a Memphian ever since.
In his first assignment in Memphis, he was working with Kemmons Wilson and Wallace Johnson. He was not working on Holiday Inn business, but another venture with the federal government to build affordable housing. It was during this time that he met Dr. George Nichopoulos. Dr. Nic’s wife Edna was looking for an architect to design their home on what was then the eastern edge of Memphis. She wanted something unique, and not a traditionally Southern design. She had already hired other architects without success. An architect from Europe might be just the one to create the home of their dreams. It turns out, Bill Nixon was up to the task.
He listened carefully to what the Nichopoulos’ wanted, and he created a contemporary design focused on privacy for the doctor and his family. As the Nichopoulos’ were finalizing the design, they struggled to visualize the space from the blueprints. One of Bill’s strengths is sketching and model-making, so he built a 3D model of the home. It was exactly the
home they wanted, and Bill Nixon had the job. The home he designed is U-shaped, with doors and windows facing the backyard, terraces, and swimming pool, providing privacy from the street as well as neighbors.
For privacy reasons, there were not many windows on the front of the house and a lack of natural light in the home. To solve the problem, Bill added one of the most distinctive and creative features of the home: a two story, glass atrium in the center of the house. The Nichopoulos' were devout Greek Orthodox so the home was built with a dedicated prayer nook, complete with a stained glass window. Another design challenge, and impressive asset, of the home is the indoor racquetball court. Racquetball was very popular in the 1970s, and Dr. Nic and his son Dean were avid players. A wing for the court was included in the design, accessible from an iron spiral staircase. A weight and exercise space was adjacent to the court, as well as a viewing area from the main level of the home.
In the early 1980s, Bill joined forces with Lee Askew to establish Askew, Nixon, Ferguson, Wolfe Architects along with other founding partners William Ferguson and Butch Wolfe. Most anyone of a certain age in the 1980s probably remembers the fabulous “architect parties” at their office location on Union Avenue in Midtown. Today, the firm is known as ANF Architects, and the tradition continues as the group opens their doors and welcomes the public to regular art openings.
The Nichopoulos home, and specifically the racquetball court, led to Bill
The former Nichopoulos home
designing the famed racquetball court at Graceland. Elvis was playing on public courts at the local Y or Memphis State University in the middle of night, so it was suggested that he build his own court. Since Dr. Nic had built one, Elvis’ team reached out to Bill. As the elements for the Graceland court were being designed and selected, Bill had the experience of a lifetime with Elvis and the entourage when they flew in Elvis’ Lockheed Jetstar to Texas to review the latest in racquetball court designs. Construction on Elvis’ court started in September 1975, and was completed just a few months before his death. Today, the court is preserved in all of the glitzy ‘70s style and is part of the Graceland tour.
During his career with ANFA, Bill was the architect as well as project director for several buildings where thousands of people have been employed over the decades. The projects included the IRS Service Center here in Memphis and the FedEx Pacific-Rim Hub in Anchorage, Alaska, plus the first stages of design for the FedEx Hub at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, France. A smaller but very visible design project was the added top floor of the Memphis City Hall during Mayor W.W. Herenton’s administration. This involved the relocation of departments within City Hall plus adding the Mayor's administrative offices to the roof level overlooking the Mississippi River.
His final project before retiring from ANF Architects was the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law building. This project has been awarded "The No. 1 Law School Facility in the Country" by the National Law Review Magazine for multiple years. He was responsible for converting an iconic building in Downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places into a state-of-the-art University of Memphis facility. When Bill first arrived in Memphis in the early 1970s, Downtown was in decline. When the law school opened in 2010, the new law school was credited with aiding the revitalization of the Downtown core. “This was my swan song, and the School, ANFA and I are very proud of
it,” Bill said. In 2021, Nixon received the "Pillar of Excellence Award - Friend of the Law School" from the U of M Law School for his contribution to the School and University.
The Law School was an impactful project to conclude his career, and he is very proud to have been involved in these projects and is very aware that they are not the sole responsibility of one person. “Most projects involve numerous, sometimes hundreds of participants without whom the project would fail,” Bill stated. “Clients, faculty, city and state officials, contractors and subcontractors as well as all of the members of the design team and so many more all contributed immensely to a successful project. I thank the support team that I had at Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects and the rest of our design teams for making these projects a success.”
Bill Nixon
Atrium in the Nichopoulos home
SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival
Photography by Frank Chin
The inaugural SmokeSlam barbecue contest and festival was held May 16-18 in Tom Lee Park, and it was one smokey, fun-filled weekend! It was an interactive experience with cooking demos, a Memphis Market & NBBQA BBQ Bazaar, and a full carnival including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and games. Live music from great bands played and each night concluded with a spectacular fireworks show. It just goes to show there is room in this BBQ city for two festivals and plenty of friendly competition for all the smokers! Next year’s festival will be May 15-17, 2025 - so light your grill, practice your recipes, and plan to join the fun! smokeslam.com
4Memphis Reads:
ZERO STARS, DO NOT RECOMMEND
BY M.J. WASSMER, $16.99
White Lotus meets Kevin Wilson in this whip-smart social satire about a man who finds himself trapped on an island resort after the sun explodes, and suddenly must choose whether to save himself from the chaos, or help the fellow guests make it off the island alive...
M.J. Wassmer will be joined by fellow Memphis novelist Avery Cunningham for a conversation and book signing on Tuesday, August 6 at 6pm.
GO TO HELL OLE MISS
BY JEFF BARRY, $27.95
Set in the Mississippi hill country in the early 1970s, Go to Hell Ole Miss tells the story of a father's willingness to do almost anything to save his daughter from the Southern gentleman he had pressured her to marry. Almost. For fans of Pat Conroy, Barbara Kingsolver, Wiley Cash, and Cormac McCarthy, Memphis native Barry's debut novel is a historical family saga of hope and hardship, redemption and revenge, faith and doubt.
Novel will host a book launch for Jeff Barry on Thursday, July 11 at 6pm.
A TASTE FOR MORE
BY PHYLLIS R. DIXON, $17.95
A Taste for More by Memphis writer Phyllis R. Dixon is a breathtaking saga spanning the final three decades of the Great Migration - from the Jim Crow south in rural mid century Mississippi through the transformative 1970s - about a tenacious single mother and culinary genius who builds an unprecedented empire. But the one dream she can't stop chasing may cost her everything...
Novel will host Phyllis Dixon for a book signing on Tuesday, July 2 at 6pm.
BROILER BY ELI CRANOR , $27.95
From the nationally bestselling and Edgar Award-winning author of Don't Know Tough and Ozark Dogs comes another edge-of-your-seat noir thriller that exposes the dark, bloody heart of life on the margins in the American South and the bleak underside of a bygone American Dream.
Novel will host a book launch for Arkansas novelist Eli Cranor on Tuesday, July 16 at 6pm.
RiverBeat Music Festival
Photography by Frank Chin
The inaugural RiverBeat Music Festival kicked off in Tom Lee Park May 3-5. It was a perfect blend of great music and iconic views of the Mississippi River. Headlining the Festival were The Fugees, Odesza, and Jelly Roll with many talented regional and local favorites playing on the multiple stages. Local food and beer options were offered including Gus’s Fried Chicken, Corky’s BBQ, Wiseacre Brewing, and Mempops for frozen treats. A Ferris wheel and carousel were new to the festival grounds and rounded out the fun for music fans. It was a very Memphis-weekend with music, food, and beautiful sunsets! riverbeat.com
Talibah Safiya
Morgan Wade
Southern Avenue
Lawrence Matthews 8Ball & MJG
Black Pumas
Al Kapone & The B.W.A. Band
Jelly Roll
Dishes for Wishes
Make-A-Wish Mid-South
Photography by Jason Ducham Photography
One of the yummiest events of the year, the annual Dishes for Wishes, was held April 24 at 409 South Main to raise money and help grant wishes for Make-A-Wish Mid-South. It was a remarkable evening with Chef Felicia Willett hosting along with a great event committee and committed sponsors. Karen Perrin and Pete Pranica graciously emceed, and Wish kid Hattie and her mom stole the show with a captivating wish story, garnering a standing ovation and many teary eyes. It is no wonder why this special event is sold-out year after year! wish.org/midsouth
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
Memphis In May
Photography by Frank Chin
The barbecue was plentiful in the Bluff City during the month of May as the Memphis In May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest took place May 15 - 18 at Liberty Park! This four-day extravaganza featured teams of barbecue pros and enthusiasts from across the country vying for the title of World Champion and a share of the more than $150,000 in prize money. Festivities included grilling and kitchen demos, live entertainment, a barbecue sauce wrestling match, and a Miss Piggy Idol contest! memphisinmay.org
July/August
Art events
You might take a vacation but our visual and performing arts soldier on through the summer doldrums, and, in fact, bring much needed respite and distraction from the oppressive heat. Many of the listings below include free air conditioning! By now you probably know about annual favorites such as the Great Wine Performances at Playhouse or the Incognito auction at the Memphis Botanic Garden, but I will wager that you probably have not been to the Ugly Art Company, a terrific art space that opened this spring. There’s lots of creativity on display and don’t miss the opportunity to see it. Stay cool! -Ken Hall
July
events
7/3 7/10 7/12 7/16 7/14
Tennessee Craft Southwest Fine Art Showcase
WKNO’s Gallery Ten Ninety-One
Opening reception is July 14 from 2-4pm; exhibit through 7/28.
Incognito Art Auction
emphis Botanic Garden
Many wonderful art pieces…but by whom? Unsigned works for auction and the artists’ names are not revealed until the end of the auction! On view at MBG beginning July 8, online auction beginning July 15, and the auction party is July 28, 6-8pm.
Modern Masters Jazz: Fareed Haqueo Green Room at Crosstown, 7:30pm
Coco Queens TheatreWorks, through 7/28
Calvin Farrar art opening
Lois Ruleman Gallery at Church Health, Crosstown West Atrium 5-7pm
He not only paints the windows at Huey’s and other restaurants, but also does some fine work on canvas!
Shea Goodson art show Ugly Art Co., 635 Madison
Southern/Modern: 1913-1955
Dixon Gallery & Garden
This exciting exhibit features an opening lecture on July 14 at 2pm by Dr. Jonathan Stuhlman entitled Hidden in Plain Sight: Reconsidering the South’s Role in Modern American Art
2023 Wilson Fellowship: Danny Broadway, Claire Hardy, Thad Lee and John Ruskey Dixon Gallery & Gardens
And the Darkness Has Not Overcome It art exhibit by John Roberts
David Lusk Gallery, through 8/22
Chere Doiron art show ANF Architects
Mama Mia!
Orpheum Theatre
Whet Thursday Metal Museum, 5-8pm
"Morning Blues" by Calvin Farrar at Church Health's Ruleman Gallery 7/13 7/19 7/23 7/27 8/7 8/8 8/9 8/14 8/16 8/17 8/20 8/23
The timeless hits of ABBA that inspire dancing in the aisles; through 7/28.
The best view of the river and there are cocktails available. This particular edition of Whet Thursday will also feature adoption opportunities with Furever Friends.
Carmen Jones Hattiloo Theatre, through 8/18
Mystic Gardens art opening by Aaron Judah Zayrion The Medicine Factory, 7 pm-midnight
August events
Memphis /Germantown Art League exhibit WKNO’s Gallery Ten Ninety-One Opening reception is August 4 from 2-4pm; exhibit through 8/30.
Modern Jazz Masters: Jon Cowherd Green Room at Crosstown, 7:30pm Area high school students learning America’s original art form.
A Special Elvis Tribute Concert Circuit Playhouse, 7pm Brad Birkedahl presents a concert inside Elvis’ favorite movie theater (now theatrical venue).
36th annual Sunflower River Blues Festival Clarksdale, MS
Authentic delta blues in an accessible setting. Pro tip: bring your church fan; through 8/11
Coconut Cake Hattiloo Theatre, through 9/8
Heather Howle art show Ugly Art Co.
Waitress Playhouse on the Square, through 9/15
Grease Theatre Memphis, through 9/8
Building Inspector Exhibition art by Local Artist Collective ANF Architects 7/8 7/25 7/26 8/10 8/1
rest, play, repeat art by Ariel Dannielle and Alexis Pyle Sheet Cake Gallery, through 9/28
Great Wine Performances Playhouse on the Square, 6-8pm
With 10 wines and 10 characters you will be ready for the quiz…and everybody is a winner.
LEGENDARY AIRWAVES: KWAM RADIO
By Sandi Butler Hughes
Radio
has been a throughline for America’s modern history. The soundtracks of our lives were broadcast over the local airwaves, long before satellite and streaming services, and KWAM is one of those stations still in operation today. With this rich history and who’s who of performers and disc jockeys, KWAM is being honored this summer as the 2024 Legendary Station of the Year by the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF). Brian Craig, Historian for TRHOF detailed the selection: “From the blues of Howlin' Wolf and Sonny Boy Williamson to the rockabilly and country of Johnny Cash and Eddie Bond to the many gospel quartets that performed live on Cousin Eugene's show, so much of the influential music that came out of Memphis and the Mid South in the 1950s was first heard on KWAM.”
The station was founded in 1947 in West Memphis, Arkansas, and the original call letters of KWEM reflected the broadcast location. (The call letters were later changed to KWAM, but it is the same station and has been continuously in operation since the initial launch.) It was built as part of a statewide network of stations to carry Arkansas Razorbacks football games and to promote coverage of their football program in the eastern part of the state as well as the larger Memphis area. Also in that era, West Memphis was described as the “Las Vegas of the South” and a lot of talent was drawn to the area to perform in the clubs along Broadway Street and subsequently live on-air at KWEM.
The roster of performers on KWEM is a who’s who of singers and musicians that shaped an era. The legendary blues singer and guitarist Howlin’ Wolf started his career at KWEM. He had a show on the station from 1949 through 1952. It was during this time that Ike Turner heard him, and he
introduced him to Sam Phillips at Memphis Recording Service. Shortly after, Howlin’ Wolf moved to Chicago, and his legendary music career was launched.
Sonny Boy Williamson, another blues great, also had a popular program on KWEM, and he gave Riley King from Itta Bena, Mississippi, an opportunity to play on his program. The young blues player became none other than B. B. King, and Sonny Boy is credited with giving him his start in the music business on KWEM radio.
As was the practice during that era, the station allowed aspiring musicians to pay $15 or $20 for 15-minute blocks of air time to play their music live on the air in hopes of being discovered. Johnny Cash's first radio broadcast was on KWEM in 1953. Also in 1953, a young Elvis Presley made his first radio appearance on the station. That performance was not especially successful because he did not have a band, and he moved around too much.
The exposure on KWEM for both Johnny and Elvis eventually led to contracts with Sam Phillips at Sun Studio, and the rest is music history. More than 200 artists played live on the station, and many went on to recording contracts and successful careers in the music industry.
The original studio was located at 231 Broadway in West Memphis before moving across the river to Memphis in 1953. The station was housed in a WWII-era quonset hut at 64 Flicker Street where it remained for several decades before moving to the present location in East Memphis. The call letters were changed in 1959, replacing the “E” with an “A,” becoming KWAM. In addition to the performers, many other radio and music professionals got their start there including George Klein, Jim Stewart
(Stax Records co-founder), and Eddie Bond, a singer, club owner, and jack of many trades.
Jerry “The King” Lawler is another notable Memphian associated with KWAM, eventually helping him to get his start in the world of wrestling. Jerry was hired to paint artwork at a steakhouse co-owned by Jackie Fargo, the famous wrestler, and Eddie Bond. Eddie was also a deejay and manager at KWAM, and he hired Jerry as a deejay at the station. Jerry promoted wrestling on the air, which led to getting in the ring himself and becoming The King. Once again, KWAM was instrumental in impacting Memphis history.
Through the decades, KWAM continued to broadcast and build on its rich history. In March 2020 the station was acquired by Starnes Media Group, led by Todd Starnes. A native Memphian, Todd built a successful career as a conservative American columnist, commentator, author and radio host before returning to his hometown. “Memphis was once known as having one of the most vibrant and diverse radio communities in the nation. And we wanted to do our part to restore some of the luster to live and local radio,” Todd stated.
The KWAM legacy continues with a diverse mix of nationally syndicated programs and locally produced programming. “When I bought KWAM I wanted to create a radio station that would be a gathering place for conversations - the front porch of the Mid-South. And my goal was to deliver excellence in broadcasting to our city,” said Todd. “Our team has not only embraced that calling, but they have excelled.” 4Memphis radio partner Earle Farrell hosts the longest running program on KWAM with The Earle Farrell 4Memphis Show airing daily 3-5pm. “I’m so thankful this honor is being bestowed on KWAM radio,” Earle said. “I started my show on this historic radio station 14 years ago. It’s truly an honor to be listed with all the greats who have been heard on this great radio station over the years.”
With a tradition of legacy and excellence in broadcasting, Todd notes that in the past four years, KWAM has been recognized for broadcasting excellence. “KWAM is the only radio station in the Mid-South to win a regional Edward R. Murrow Award. The station has also been honored multiple times by the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters for our news coverage and our talk programs,” he shared. Congratulations to Todd and the entire team at KWAM for being honored as a legend on the airwaves, impacting radio history in Tennessee with music heard around the globe.
Here’s to the
Thank you to all of the sponsors, the Host Committee, restaurants, and hundreds of guests who gathered to celebrate and support Mid-South wish kids. As long as kids face critical illnesses, we know they'll have the life-changing impact of a wish... and it's all thanks to you.
PRESENTEDBY:
Valeritaville Birthday Party
Photography by Byron Fitchpatric/Snapix
Valerie Bearup celebrated her 60th birthday bash poolside June 22 at Club 4600 with a splash of tropical flair! It was a picture-perfect beautiful summer night, and upon arrival the over 150 guests were greeted with rhythmic beats of steel drums and a stunning floral arch, all in keeping with the Valeritaville theme. Partygoers enjoyed catering by Tops BBQ & Burgers and Casamigos tequila through an ice luge. The backyard oasis included tunes by Tiger City DJs, a mermaid and a merman swimming in the pool, and dazzling LED hoop twirlers. The special night was filled with laughter, music, and tropical delights for Valerie’s birthday celebration!
Spring Luncheon
River Oaks Garden Club
Photography by Deborah Matthews, River Oaks Garden Club member
The River Oaks Garden Club hosted their spring May meeting and installation of new officers May 16 at Chickasaw Country Club, and a fun time was had by all celebrating the season and the garden club! Karen Emmett and Joan Heflin chaired the luncheon, which featured timeless, beautifully decorated blue and white themed tablescapes. Chinoiserie vases with colorful cut flowers were the centerpieces and crisp, white linen cocktail napkins with blue embroidered hydrangeas were the take-home “happy” of the day. Members' donations were made to several philanthropies. The luncheon was a great way to end the garden club’s year and a happy start to the summer.
1. Valerie & Scot Bearup 2. Larry, Keke & Kem Price 3. Laurie Pelynio & David Walker 4. Abby Brooks 5. Lisa Wills & David Orabone 6. Sherry Saxon, Cathy McCullough, Teresa Grant & Teresa Starnes 7. Cindy Mire, Lisa May, Carla Loveless & Alison Smith
