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THE MEMPHIS FLYER is published weekly by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 Phone: (901) 521-9000 Fax: (901) 521-0129 memphisflyer.com
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A Century of B.B. King
From Memphis to Indianola, pilgrims are flocking to honor the bluesman’s 100th birthday. PHOTO: ALAN COPELAND, COURTESY OF THE STAX MUSEUM OF AMERICAN SOUL MUSIC
Test Drive Retirement
Experience the reality of retirement before leaving the workforce.
PHOTO: JOSEPH CORL | UNSPLASH
B.B. King Turns 100
Celebrate the life and legacy of blues legend Riley B. King. p31
fly-by
MEM ernet
Memphis on the internet.
SUPREME
Memphisforgotten got hilariously poetic about Memphis water (and the new Memphys canned water brand) on Facebook. eir post has an image of other waters like Aqua na and Dasani bowing before the throne of “Memphys water.”
“I am Aquifer Gold. Sacred by Source. Pure Memphis.”
THE MEMPH-SONS
Digital creator William Jones has been “Simpson-fying” Memphis landmarks on Facebook in ways both hilarious and amazing. Above, the family hits up Jack Pirtle’s Chicken. He also cra ed Simpsons versions of 201 Poplar, Ashlar Hall, Adventure River, and a number of gentlemen’s clubs.
Questions, Answers + Attitude
Edited by Toby Sells
{
WEEK THAT WAS
By Flyer staff
Crime Stats, Jail, & Gender Ed
Lawmakers push for police audit, faith leaders urge new jail, and Trump threatens Tennessee.
MPD AUDIT
An audit of crime reporting by the Memphis Police Department (MPD) is “ridiculous,” one Memphis lawmaker said.
State representatives Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) and John Gillespie (R-Memphis) recently requested an unannounced audit of the way the MPD reports its crimes to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). e pair issued the request in a letter to TBI Director David Rausch.
In the letter, Taylor and Gillespie said they’d been told MPD has sometimes intentionally fudged the numbers to, apparently, present a brighter picture of the city’s crime situation. It’s alleged that the agency may intentionally downgrade a burglary, a felony o ense, to vandalism, a misdemeanor. And that sometimes the MPD les formal reports as memos so they won’t appear in o cial crime statistics.
e MPD may face an audit of the way it reports crimes to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, if two state representatives have their way.
conditions of the jail as well as inmate deaths. ey noted the lack of care and attention to those in mental health crisis, the “inhumane booking process,” and more, asking Bonner to address these issues as they “fail to meet basic standards of decency.”
State Representative Jesse Chism (D-Memphis) said the request is a “waste of TBI resources” and the basis for it is a “ridiculous implication.”
FAITH LEADERS URGE NEW JAIL
Letters sent on behalf of faith-based leaders highlight the need for a new jail, community input, and the sheri ’s role in operating a facility in an “orderly, safe, and humane manner.” e Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church’s Social Justice Ministry sent a letter to Shelby County Sheri Floyd Bonner, the Shelby County Board of Commissioners, the Memphis City Council, and mayors Paul Young and Lee Harris.
e ministry raised concerns regarding the conditions of the current jail, urging all elected bodies to be engaged and act e ectively on the issue. Each letter cited 1 Corinthians 14:40, which stresses the importance of “maintaining order” in everyday life.
“In our personal and professional lives, we’re called to act in ways that re ect our values and beliefs,” the letter said. “Our behavior should be respectful and organized. We should do things in the correct order and at the proper time, instead of doing them haphazardly or impulsively.”
Ministry leaders also acknowledged the declining
“Being arrested and booked into 201 Poplar should never be a death sentence,” they said.
TRUMP THREATENS ON GENDER ED
e Trump administration is threatening to pull federal funding from 40 states including Tennessee for a sex education program aimed at vulnerable teens unless those states remove references in their curriculum to gender identity and transgender people.
e U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said the action re ected the Trump administration’s “ongoing commitment to protecting children from attempts to indoctrinate them with delusional ideology.”
Withholding federal funds to punish states for teaching about gender identity is yet another way the Trump administration has sought to control what young people learn and advance the president’s view that there are only two sexes, male and female.
States will have 60 days to comply or risk losing their federal funds for the Personal Responsibility Education Program, or PREP.
Tennessee Lookout contributed to this report. Visit the News Blog at memphis yer.com for fuller versions of these stories and more local news.
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POSTED TO FACEBOOK BY WILLIAM JONES
PHOTO: MEMPHIS POLICE DEPARTMENT
{ CITY REPORTER
By Kailynn Johnson
Report: No New Jail
The Prison Policy Initiative says staff culture, procedures lead to “massive” back ups.
Arecent analysis questions the county’s plans to build a new jail.
The Prison Policy Initiative (PPI) released findings regarding a new jail in Shelby County. The group was contacted by “community members” in the county about plans for a facility to replace the jail at 201 Poplar and Jail East.
PPI reviewed the 2025 Shelby County Jail Needs Assessment from the University of Tennessee’s County Technical Assistance Service.
“Our research has repeatedly shown that building a newer, bigger jail is rarely the solution that advocates for jail expansion claim,” PPI said.
The group went on to say that existing issues will not be remedied by the construction of a new facility.
According to the University of Tennessee, a new jail is not only recommended but should be 50 percent larger than the “combined average daily populations at both 201 Poplar and Jail East.” Examining this claim, PPI said they found several “glaring issues.”
These issues included problematic data sources and contradictions.
“The report handpicks data sources and exaggerates capacity issues to support building a new, bigger jail,” PPI said.
PPI went on to say jail assessments usually pull from county population trends, average daily jail population (ADP) trends, average length of stay (ALOS), and bookings and admissions.
The University of Tennessee chose to include information from the U.S. Census Bureau, daily inmate population history, classification needs, and “special inmate needs.”
These data points “presuppose” the recommendation and need for a larger jail, according to PPI. They added that these choices create capacity issues at Jail East by minimizing the county’s reduction of bookings and admissions.
The assessment said an average of 34,428 bookings occurred between 2013 and 2024. However, PPI noted that the analysis is based heavily on the period ranging from 2018 to 2024 — which they said ignores a “long-term trend” not reflected in the county’s assessment.
“We raise these problems because the report’s future booking projections are part of the larger picture of forecasting jail bedspace needs, and
it appears that the author may be overestimating future bookings,” PPI said. “The primary driver of the jail population in Shelby County appears not to be the number of bookings, but rather the incredibly long time it takes to complete the booking and release processes — keeping people at the jail longer than necessary.”
While PPI noted cosmetic concerns at 201 Poplar, they said these cannot be the source of problems such as in-custody deaths. They said these are more likely the result of a “breakdown of processes, procedures, and staff culture.”
“While the physical conditions of the jail at 201 Poplar may well warrant new construction or even a new building, many issues associated with the jail have far more to do with the culture of those operating the jail,” PPI said. “A larger jail will not resolve these issues, but will only relocate them and see them impacting a larger population.”
“Building a newer, bigger jail is rarely the solution.”
The initiative found problems with longer booking times, which contributed to a “massive” backlog. It also brought attention to the number of deaths that occurred under the watch of jail employees, including at least 12 suicides.
Jail staff also has a “pervasive and well-documented history of unprofessional and even illegal activity.” To remedy this, PPI recommended an increase in “professional and cultural training” for jail staff.
PPI recommends that the county address staff culture and other processing problems before moving forward with a new jail. They said these current issues have contributed to concerns of the current facilities.
The analysis also encourages the county to reduce dependency on pretrial detention by looking at ways to assess bail affordability.
PPI concluded that while the county’s report identifies “serious issues,” they won’t all be solved by a new facility.
“The new jail will diminish public safety rather than improve it,” PPI said. “Ultimately, we find that many of Shelby County’s capacity issues can be resolved by improving processes and staff culture, and by making better use of existing diversionary methods.”
SOUL & BLUES FEST
VIEWPOINT By
Mel Gurtov
Trump, Drugs, and War
We’ve seen this play before.
The sinking of a boat allegedly carrying drugs from Venezuela has turned out to have ominous political and military implications. President Trump has taken the entirely illegal (and irrational) step of authorizing the U.S. military to issue shoot-to-kill orders against suspected drug smugglers.
As we have seen in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., Trump is expanding the traditional role of the military, and common-sense notions of national security, by converting soldiers into policemen, smugglers into enemy combatants, and drug tra cking into state terrorism. Trump’s order gives soldiers license to kill drug dealers on sight, just as they did in the attack on the Venezuelan boat.
A former homeland security ofcial in the Obama administration, Jeh Johnson, said: “Here the president appears to be invoking his amorphous constitutional authority to kill lowlevel drug couriers on the high seas, with no due process, arrest, or trial,” adding: “Viewed in isolation, labeling drug cartels ‘terrorists’ and invoking the ‘national interests’ to use the U.S. military to summarily kill low-level drug couriers is pretty extreme.”
Trump may also be using the boat incident to take aim at Venezuela’s leadership. As usual, Trump and company have o ered no details on the incident: where the attack occurred, how they knew the boat carried drugs and was headed to a U.S. port, and why (contrary to earlier U.S. intelligence ndings) it believes the Venezuelan government controls the alleged drug tra cker gang that was killed. is cover-up coincides, perhaps not coincidentally, with a U.S. military
buildup in the Caribbean that might be the prelude to an attack on Venezuela. e White House press secretary has prepared the way, saying: “ e Maduro regime is not the legitimate government of Venezuela. It is a narco-terror cartel.”
ose words typically come from an imperial presidency, which Trump seems to embrace with his justi cation for renaming the defense department the Department of War. He says the U.S. hasn’t won a war since World War II — that it has held back from winning because the country “decided to go woke.”
Now, presumably, we’re going to start winning wars, and the Caribbean may look to Trump like an easy win. A U.S. buildup there has invasion written all over it: eight warships, several surveillance planes, and one attack submarine.
If the U.S. attacks, you can expect that Trump will justify it as a counterterrorism operation when in fact it will be designed to bring about regime change — the removal of President Nicolás Maduro, who has been in Trump’s crosshairs since Trump’s rst term. All it may take to touch o a U.S. attack, in defense of national interests of course, is an incident such as the buzzing of a Navy guided-missile destroyer by two Venezuelan jets last week.
Remember the Bay of Pigs, the Gulf of Tonkin, and 9/11? We’ve seen this play before.
Mel Gurtov, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is professor emeritus of political science at Portland State University.
PHOTO: MARSIA16 | DREAMSTIME.COM
Trump’s order gives soldiers license to kill drug dealers on sight.
By Katie Stephenson
Test Drive Retirement
any people spend a lot of time planning for the nancial aspects of retirement, but very few spend time planning for the emotional and social aspects. Although retirement is supposed to be a rewarding, relaxing chapter in life, some people experience boredom or loneliness a er leaving the workforce. In fact, many people are surprised to learn that retirement isn’t at all what they expected. Consider taking a “retirement test drive” to experience the reality of it before you leave the workforce. Here’s how.
1. Take some time o work.
Consider taking at least two weeks of vacation, if you’re able. is gives you time to discover whether you may become bored with your newfound freedom. As closely as possible, try to mimic what you envision for your retirement lifestyle.
For example, if your goals include a round of golf with friends three days a week, reach out to them and schedule time on the course. Or if you envision purchasing a home on the beach, consider renting in your desired community to make sure that’s where you want to live. is test run can be a great way to discover whether the reality of retirement matches your expectations. You may nd out that your friends are less available to golf during the day than you’d hoped for or that three days on the golf course gets boring, and you’ll need to nd other hobbies to keep you busy. Or you may nd out that your plans suit your expectations perfectly, which makes you look forward to retirement even more.
2. Explore new hobbies. Your retirement test drive provides an
opportunity to try out new hobbies and activities. Maybe there’s a charitable organization you’ve always wanted to volunteer with, or perhaps you’ve been wanting to take a painting class. Trying out these activities before you retire can help you decide whether you want to include them in your retirement lifestyle.
3. Reach out to friends and family. Without daily interaction with coworkers, you may need to expand your social circle. During your test drive, think about what people you will surround yourself with once you leave the workforce. Consider reaching out to friends and family to nd out who’s most likely to be available. If you discover your friends aren’t up for as much social interaction as you’d like, or if you plan to move to a new city a er you retire, consider what actions you can take to meet new people.
4. Structure your days.
Some retirees are surprised to discover that one of the things they miss most is the structure of a workday. Without a routine, it’s easy to feel idle or unproductive. During your test drive, consider how you can structure your days.
For example, maybe you start your morning with a walk and a breakfast, followed by some time catching up on the news or working on a creative project. Perhaps you end your day by cooking a nice meal with your spouse. It’s not necessary to schedule every moment of the day, but it can help to establish a daily rhythm to guide your time.
5. Re ect on your emotional state. Retirement can have a big impact on your emotional state, which is why regular self-re ection is important. How are you feeling a er your time away from work? Are you bored and lonely? Happy and ful lled? Ready to get back to the o ce, or looking forward to your next time away? Being honest with yourself about how you’re feeling allows you to address emotional challenges before you fully retire.
Katie Stephenson, JD, CFP®, is a Private Wealth Manager and Partner with Creative Planning. Creative Planning is one of the nation’s largest registered investment advisory rms providing comprehensive wealth management services to ensure all elements of a client’s nancial life are working together, including investments, taxes, estate planning, and risk management. For more information or to request a free, no-obligation consultation, visit CreativePlanning.com.
for retirement? An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can help you grow your savings with tax benefits. Southeast Financial offers various IRA options for your savings.
PHOTO: JOSEPH CORL | UNSPLASH Consider trying new hobbies.
AT LARGE By Bruce VanWyngarden
A Nobel Effort
War. What is it good for?
Last week, the man who wants more than anything to win the Nobel Peace Prize changed the name of the United States Department of Defense to the War Department. According to an article in Politico, Defense Department o cials weren’t thrilled about the change. “It will mean having to rebrand a mountain of contracting, marketing, business development materials, you name it, both digital and otherwise, that speci cally cite the Department of Defense or DOD,” a defense analyst said. “It will be costly.”
with kick, so it’s kinda bad-ass, like me.” Not to be outdone, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced that “the Department of Energy will henceforth be named the Department of Oil because other sources of energy — water, wind, and solar — are too woke and kill whales. And bald eagles. Also Donald Trump should win the Nobel Peace Prize.”
A SHADY LAWN?
But cost was not a concern for Mr. Trump, who told reporters, “We won World War I, we won World War II, we won everything before that and in between, and then we decided to go woke, and we changed the name to DOD. So we’re going with Department of War.” at name change Trump spoke of happened in 1949, when Harry S. Truman was president. I’m from Missouri, so I learned a lot about Harry S. Truman in my youth. I know, for instance, that he volunteered to serve in World War I at the age of 33, and led a combat artillery unit on the front lines in France for two years. I know he memorized the eye chart in order to pass the Army physical because he failed the eye test on his rst try. I know he didn’t have bone spurs. And I’m quite sure he would be shocked to learn that the insecure baby-man currently holding the o ce of president called him “woke.”
Harry S. Truman was a straight-shooter (literally) who valued the truth above everything and risked his life in combat for his country. He knew from personal experience in two horri c world-wide con icts, that “war” is not a word to be tossed around lightly or used for a cheap political diversion. He would have had no use for a poser like Donald Trump.
Sadly, however, as is typical with the yes-men Trump installed to head our federal agencies, they quickly and predictably followed his lead.
First to step up was head of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, who announced that Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) would be renamed Intimidation & Custom Kidnapping (ICK), to better re ect the agency’s core mission. “ICE was too woke,” said Noem. “And ICK rhymes
e next day, at a hastily called press conference, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi told reporters that the Justice Department would be renamed the Just Us Department, which, Bondi said, “is more in line with our core mission, which is to act as the president’s personal law rm, responsible for reacting to any perceived slights with quick federal prosecutions.”
In a follow-up press release, she added: “I neglected to mention that it would be a travesty if the president doesn’t win the Nobel Peace Prize.”
en the dominoes really started falling. e Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) became FEM (Federal Emergency? Meh.) Motto: How bad could it be? e National Weather Service was renamed the National Weather — Or Not. Motto: Just look outside, you idiots.
Noted serial philanderer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. changed the name of the agency he heads to the Health and Human Cervixes Department. e Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which Kennedy is methodically deconstructing, is now called the Center for Dis-Ease Conveyance. “ e new name better re ects what we’re really all about,” he croaked. “Also, two words: ‘Trump. Nobel.’”
Realizing that he was missing the name-change boat, Vice President JD Vance stepped up with a carefully couched suggestion: “In light of the National Guard taking over maintenance chores such as mulching, grass-cutting, and treetrimming in Washington, D.C., I propose that we change that organization’s name to the National Yard because they’re proudly bringing lawn order to the nation’s capital.”
“Also,” he added, “Donald Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.” Also, I made most of this up, and this column should win the Nobel Piece Prize.
PHOTO: ABBIE ROWE, PUBLIC DOMAIN | WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Harry S. Truman: shocked to be called “woke”
FROM MEMPHIS TO INDIANOLA, PILGRIMS ARE FLOCKING TO HONOR THE BLUESMAN’S 100TH BIRTHDAY.
A CENTURY OF
COVER STORY
By Alex Greene
It was a rainy day in May, 10 years ago, when B.B. King made his last trip down Beale Street. His fame was great enough by then that the funeral procession was captured by PBS’ American Masters series, which still features the footage online. Rodd Bland, son of another Beale Street star, Bobby “Blue” Bland, walked along with King’s beloved guitar, Lucille, cradled in his arms, all to the joyous wail of the Mighty Souls Brass Band, as the hearse rolled slowly under the neon sign of B.B. King’s Blues Club and on down the street where young Riley B. King had once arrived seeking his fortune.
B.B. King
Having found that fortune a er many hardships, then passing away at the ripe age of 89, King was now making that journey again in reverse. Leaving Beale, the funeral procession headed south. At the state line, police ceremonially transferred guardianship of the motorcade from Tennessee to Mississippi o cers, and on they drove to Indianola. ough he was born in the country, closer to Itta Bena, he spent his teen years in Indianola and o en called that his hometown. When King died in 2015 it had already been 10 years since the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center’s groundbreaking there. By day’s end, he would be buried on those grounds. at day of mourning and celebration thus honored two pole stars of King’s life: the town where he grew up, and the town where his artistic voice was born. And now, a century a er his birth and 10 years since his death, both cities are celebrating his legacy in style.
100 DAYS OF BLUES
e festivities have already been going on around Indianola, with Mississippi Valley State University (in nearby Itta Bena) having hosted the 11th annual B.B. King Day of panel discussions on September 4th, followed by an all-star jam session at Club Ebony, where B.B. o en played. is Saturday, September 13th, the venue will come to life again in spectacular fashion, as a live blues band accompanies a hologram of King. And on his actual birthday, September 16th, the museum will host a reception (and serve birthday cake). Meanwhile, the Blu City has been celebrating since June 8th, which marked the launch of “100 Days of Blues” in venues all over town.
King performing in 1982; (le ) Rufus omas and Ruby Wilson join King at his blues club.
As Kevin Kane, president and CEO of Memphis Tourism, describes it, “We kicked it o with a big gospel brunch with the Tennessee Mass Choir at B.B. King’s Blues Club on a Sunday. And that was just huge. And then we are wrapping it up on Tuesday, September 16th, with a big celebration being led by B.B. King’s Blues Club, where they will be having music most of that day. So it’s been really a cool promotion. We just thought it would be a great way to get a conversation going, once again, about our musical legacy, and it certainly did that. Our stories were picked up literally all over the world, so it really kind of exceeded our expectations from that standpoint.”
e ongoing salutes to King go beyond performances. rough October 19th, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music is hosting the exhibit, “B.B. King in Memphis,” featuring neverbefore-seen photographs from King’s 1982 Labor Day Weekend concert at
Mud Island Amphitheater, captured by Memphis photographer Alan Copeland. And the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery has unearthed some rare shots of King by Ernest C. Withers himself, featured in a dedicated exhibit.
Perhaps only in Memphis could one nd something blues-related happening for 100 consecutive days. “ e calendar was not that hard to ll,” says Kane, “because there is so much music in this area that we literally could nd something every day for 100 days. A lot of destinations would really struggle [to nd that many blues acts], but we were able to nd something literally, I think, every single day.”
at’s no great surprise with a street like Beale in our midst, and naturally that’s where the party will be, with the club founded by King and local investor Tommy Peters at the heart of two days of activities. Peters, who died almost exactly four years ago due to complications from Covid-19, was a
beloved gure on Beale and throughout Memphis, and the club he founded with King was one reason why. ere was a deep personal bond between Peters and King that still reverberates through the city today as their shared legacy.
When Sara Fay Egan, Peters’ daughter, was growing up, B.B. King loomed large in her life. “I met him several times,” she recalls. “He came over to our house, and he and my dad were pretty close. ey were both really, really hard-working. B.B., I think, was on the road more than 300 nights a year. He worked so hard, and my father worked so hard. ey really bonded over their work ethic, their love for music, and their love for family. at’s what we’re really trying to home in on and continue.”
eir shared love of music will certainly be apparent on Beale this weekend and into next week, as B.B. King’s Blues Club hosts twin events to honor a century of its namesake’s impact.
“On September 14th, we are having a free block party on Beale Street from 2 to 6 p.m.,” says Egan. “We really just wanted to get families down there, kids of all ages, to celebrate and learn a little bit about this wonderful history of the blues and what B.B. accomplished. And so playing music that day, we’ll have Eric Gales, who’s a Memphian, Rodd Bland, Mr. Sipp, Corey Lou, and the Stax Music Academy group. We love getting the kids involved, and really just want it to be a big birthday party. We’ll have face painters, balloon artists, the Whitehaven High School marching band, the Beale Street Flippers, and the Memphis Grizzline drum line.” e club is also taking the extra step of moving their food service outside, hoping that locals will rediscover the magic of Beale. “I think that a lot of Memphians forget what’s right here in their backyard,” says Egan, “and we want them to come down and maybe do something they wouldn’t normally do: Go to Beale Street on a Sunday. It’s safe, bring your kids, and it’ll be fun. And the weather looks to be perfect. We’re going to have tents down the street and be selling food. And we’ve encouraged the other restaurants to do the same. We’ll have barbecue sandwiches, so people can eat outside, enjoying the weather, or if they want to come inside they can do that as well.” en on Tuesday, September 16th, as the sun begins to sink in the sky, B.B. King’s Blues Club will light up as if it’s New Year’s Eve, with a mini music festival of sorts. “It will be a seated dinner with a three-course meal, and as you dine you can watch the show,” Egan says. “David Porter, who needs no introduction, will be emceeing and hosting. And the bill includes Bobby Rush, Eric Gales, Carla omas, Jerome Chism with Hi Rhythm, Boo Mitchell, Southern Avenue, and D.K. Harrell.” Even that partial listing is a jawdropper, o ering some of the most stellar heirs, across three generations, of King’s legacy as both a singer and a guitarist. Rush, of course, is blues royalty and has won multiple Grammys in the eld, while Gales’ 2022 album with Joe Bonamassa also garnered a Grammy nomination. Mitchell, Chism, and Hi Rhythm have been wowing audiences globally on several recent tours, with guitar wunderkind Lina Beach lling Teenie Hodges’ shoes admirably, and Carla omas’ cameo with that very group was a raucous, soulful highlight of the 2024 RiverBeat Music Festival. She’s recently appeared on the road with the group in Europe as the Take Me to the River All-Stars. Meanwhile, Southern Avenue will t right in with the family vibes Egan mentioned, Family being the title of their latest and greatest album on Alligator Records.
continued on page 14
PHOTOS: COURTESY B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB (top) Chick Rodgers sings with the B.B. King’s Blues Club All Star Band; (above) King and Tommy Peters, center, when the club was being built; (le ) King playing his club
continued from page 13
THEIR FATHERS’ DAUGHTERS
But yet another performer that night will take the cake in putting family front and center, or rather families, plural. at would be Shirley King, raised in B.B.’s father’s household in Memphis during the earliest years of B.B.’s career, as he toured the Chitlin’ Circuit. “My father bought that house a er he made his rst hit, ‘3 O’Clock Blues.’ He bought that house because he was always looking out for his father,” Shirley says. “It’s still there, at 2031 Hubert Avenue.” She is also unique among those B.B. counted as his children in having pursued the performing arts. “I’ve been doing this for 53 years,” Shirley says. “I danced for 21 years, and the other 32 I’ve just been singing blues and touring and doing my thing.”
When she moved to Chicago early in life, her father helped her connect with Willie Dixon (whose daughter became a good friend of Shirley’s). Yet there was a downside to her career as a show dancer: Shirley was o en too busy with her own shows to see her father play as o en as she wanted. “I don’t know too many kids of legendary people, but most of them cannot say they were out there performing on one side of the street while their father was performing on the other one,” she says.
Still, it’s been a minute since Shirley took the stage. A er releasing her third album, Blues for a King, in 2020, Covid brought an abrupt hiatus to her performing career. Next Tuesday’s birthday concert will be one of her rst appearances since then. “I have not done anything since 2020, I think, except for a couple things in 2023,” she says. “But this will be the rst time that I’ve done any kind of B.B. King celebration.” Indeed, Shirley has always aimed to make a name for herself on her own merits, without leaning on her father’s name. But now, she says, “It’s an honor, the feeling I get from it. I want to do something my dad could be proud of.”
She’s used to having stellar players, her 2020 album boasting cameos by the likes of Duke Robillard, Elvin Bishop,
and Steve Cropper. Having the B.B. King’s Blues Club All Stars backing her next week will be in keeping with that standard of excellence. Any father would surely be proud.
Yet another father’s pride will be beaming as well, as Sara Fay Egan well knows. “Back in the ’90s, the city came to John Elkington and my father, Tommy Peters, because Beale Street was really kind of rundown. ere wasn’t much open. And so they came to Tommy to open B.B. King’s and help bring back Beale Street. And when it opened in ’91 it really became an anchor of the street. So this birthday is a re ection of both my father’s legacy and B.B. King’s legacy. Looking to the future, I feel like we’re at a crossroads again with Beale Street and Downtown.”
And at this crossroads, two heirs of those twin legacies will meet, as the daughter of Tommy Peters welcomes the daughter of B.B. King to the stage. Egan is relishing the opportunity, saying she and Shirley recall meeting “when we were really young. We remember being on his bus. And then when I was in college, I was on his bus again. So it’s kind of a full-circle moment now. B.B. was such a family man. He really took great care of his family, and he always had family members around. And there will be some other family members there on Tuesday as well. But Shirley will be singing. You don’t want to hear me singing, okay? She’s performing, and I’m putting on the party. We’ve been talking every day. I think we spoke for 45 minutes last night. She’s just so excited that we’re celebrating him in the way that he deserves.”
“She’s a beautiful child,” Shirley says of Egan, her junior by a few decades. “I see her dad in her. And we want to honor both fathers, the father that made this thing real, and the father that they accepted. You know, that was a partnership, right there.”
PHOTO: MOE TAIBLESON Shirley King danced for 21 years before becoming a blues singer.
steppin’ out
We Recommend: Culture, News + Reviews
Ten Years at the Halloran
is weekend, the Orpheum eatre Group’s Halloran Centre for Performing Arts & Education celebrates 10 years with three days of events.
“Most people, when they think about the Orpheum, they know we do Broadway, they know we do concerts. And then I’m the person who’s always saying, ‘Did you know that we have all these year-round education and community programs?’” says Jennifer McGrath, vice president of education, community engagement, and Halloran Centre programming. “Did you know that we’re serving community members, ages 9 to 95?”
A er all, it was the Orpheum’s ever-growing and expanding education and community programs the led to the creation of the Halloran Centre 10 years ago, and now with the need for additional space met, the Orpheum serves over 35,000 students, teachers, families, and community members a year through its programming, in addition to o ering a calendar of entertainment.
By Abigail Morici
Looking to this weekend, Saturday kicks o with a cabaret-style musical revue, Blu City to Broadway and Beyond: Celebrating 10 Years at the Halloran Centre. “We are bringing back four alumni from our programs: Ethan Hardy Benson, Raneem Imam, Melissa VanPelt, and Riley ad Young,” McGrath says. “ ese are all people that have been a part of our education and community engagement programs and have gone on to have incredible careers in the arts.”
en on Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m., Memphis can get a taste of the programming the Halloran o ers with workshops and performances, plus food trucks, games, and community partner tables at the free 10th Anniversary Community Day. e day will also have a sensory-friendly space and free parking provided by the Downtown Mobility Center at 60 Beale Street. (Use promo code HC10TH at checkout through the Premium Parking app or website for the Downtown Mobility Center.)
“Monday the 15th is our Giving Day,” McGrath says. “We want to invite the community to continue to support this work. No o er of support is too big or too small; we really want to also ensure that the giving is accessible.”
“We have done a lot of work, and there’s also still a long way to go. And you know, I think this is a very exciting time for the arts and culture sector in Memphis.”
More information, including a full schedule of the community day’s events, can be found at orpheum-memphis.com/HC10.
BLUFF CITY TO BROADWAY AND BEYOND: CELEBRATING 10 YEARS AT THE HALLORAN CENTRE, HALLORAN CENTRE, 225 SOUTH MAIN, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 7:30 P.M., $69.65/GENERAL ADMISSION, $85.50/VIP. 10TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY DAY, HALLORAN CENTRE, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 1-5 P.M., FREE.
GIVING DAY, ORPHEUM-MEMPHIS.COM/HC10, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15.
VARIOUS DAYS & TIMES September 11th - 17th
Cooper-Young Festival
e 50th Memphis Pride Festival
Cooper-Young Historic District, Saturday, September 13, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Turn up the dial on fun with a free, family-friendly, music, arts and cra s street festival.
Enjoy shopping with 445 art and cra s vendors from Memphis and across the United States. Artisans will be showing and selling a plethora of works, like original paintings on canvas, iron hummingbirds, dri wood clocks, glasswork, sculptures, tie-dye, insect art, vinyl record upcycles, wind chimes, leatherwork, gemstones, vintage pieces, and all things unique, weird, and wonderful.
Music kicks o at 11:15 a.m. with 45-minute sets all day, starting with Alexis Jade & e Gemstones and wrapping up with the Queen of Creole Soul, the amazing Marcella Simien.
Overton Park Shell, Sunday, September 14, 2-8 p.m., $3 is year marks a powerful milestone — the 50th Pride in Memphis! Memphis Pride Fest 2025 is all about going back to roots — re ecting on the rst marches, the ght for visibility, and the progress made. It’s a time to celebrate, educate, and continue the work of those who came before.
Expect live entertainment, special exhibits on Memphis Pride history, local food trucks and vendors, family friendly activities and area, and a marketplace featuring LGBTQ artists and businesses.
Purchase tickets at tinyurl. com/4u9p4vyf.
Voices of Yellow Fever Elmwood Cemetery, 824 Dudley Street, Sunday, September 14, 5-6:30 p.m., $17.85
Voices of Yellow Fever is a powerful theatrical experience that brings to life the true stories of Memphis’ yellow fever heroes. rough dramatic rst-person narratives, historical gures who battled the deadly epidemics of the 1870s share their struggles, sacri ces, and acts of courage. Audiences will hear directly from doctors, nurses, clergy, and volunteers, many of whom gave their lives in service to the su ering. is moving performance honors their legacy and sheds light on one of the darkest and most heroic chapters in Memphis history.
Purchase tickets at elmwoodcemetery.org.
PHOTOS: COURTESY ORPHEUM THEATRE GROUP (le to right) Riley ad Young, Melissa VanPelt, Ethan Hardy Benson, and Raneem Imam
AFTER DARK: Live Music Schedule September 11 - 17
Ashton Riker & The Memphis Royals
ursday, Sept. 11, 8 p.m.
B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB
Baunie and Soul
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7-11 p.m.
RUM BOOGIE CAFE BLUES HALL
Blues Trio
Saturday, Sept. 13, noon
| Sunday, Sept. 14, noon |
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 4 p.m.
B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB
Dinner And A Show:
Celebrate B.B. King’s 100th Birthday!
Performances by Bobby Rush, Carla omas & Hi Rythm, D.K. Harrell, and B.B. King’s oldest daughter, Shirley King, will sing a tribute! Tickets include a three-course meal, birthday cake, and a drink.
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7-9:30 p.m.
B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB
Eric Hughes
ursday, Sept. 11, 7-11 p.m.
RUM BOOGIE CAFE
Flic’s Pics Band
Led by the legendary Leroy “Flic” Hodges of Hi Rhythm.
Saturday, Sept. 13, 4 p.m.
B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB
Free 100th Birthday Block Party for B.B. King
With Eric Gales, Rodd Bland, Mr. Sipp, Corey Lou, and Stax Music Academy. Also: face painters, balloon artists, the Whitehaven High School marching band, the Beale Street Flippers, and the Grizzline.
Smooth, soulful, original jazz and blues. ursday, Sept. 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
BUTTERIFIC BAKERY & CAFE
Sunset Jazz at Court Square
is week: Johnny Yancey and the Power to the People Jazz Orchestra, . Gabbrielle Cain.
Free. Sunday, Sept. 14, 5 p.m.
COURT SQUARE PARK
Tchaikovsky Violin
Concerto
With Robert Moody, conductor, and Randall Goosby, violin. Also performing Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. Saturday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m.
CANNON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Tequila Mockingbird
Sunday, Sept. 14, 3 p.m.
HUEY’S DOWNTOWN
Elmo & the Shades
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 7 p.m.
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM
Jad Tariq Trio
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30 p.m.
HUEY’S POPLAR
John Williams & the A440 Band
$10. ursday, Sept. 11, 8 p.m.
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM
Laser Live: Lawrence
Matthews
Matthews presents “What in the Wide World?” — an immersive audio-visual experience. DJ set at 6 p.m. Drinks by Crosstown Brewery for purchase. Saturday, Sept. 13, 7-9 p.m.
AUTOZONE DOME PLANETARIUM
Leo Kottke
Bringing a unique sound and masterful ourishes to the sixand 12-string guitar, Kotke has cemented his reputation as a true musical innovator.
Sunday, Sept. 14, 7-8:30 p.m.
BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER AT ST.
MARY’S SCHOOL
Tchaikovsky Violin
Concerto
With Robert Moody, conductor, and Randall Goosby, violin. Also performing Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. Sunday, Sept. 14, 2:30 p.m.
RUDI E. SCHEIDT SCHOOL OF MUSIC
The Chaulkies
Sunday, Sept. 14, 3 p.m.
HUEY’S POPLAR
The Deb Jam Band
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM
The Mixers
Sunday, Sept. 14, 4-7 p.m.
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM
Van Duren
e singer-songwriter, a pioneer of indie pop in Memphis, performs solo. ursday, Sept. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
MORTIMER’S
PHOTO: COURTESY LAWRENCE MATTHEWS
Lawrence Matthews
Bruce Kee Band
Saturday, Sept. 13, 5 p.m.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Candlelight: The Sounds of the South Candlelight concerts bring the magic of live music to beautiful locations. $42.80/general admission. Friday, Sept. 12, 1:30-2:45 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Carla Thomas Album
Reissue Listening Event
Friday, Sept. 12, 6 p.m.
MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB
Deathpop Ages 18+. Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 p.m.
MINGLEWOOD HALL
Deborah Swiney Duo
Guitarist David Collins will make an appearance. ursday, Sept. 11, 6-9 p.m.
THE COVE
Devil Train
Bluegrass, roots, country, Delta, and ski e. ursday, Sept. 11, 9 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 p.m.
B-SIDE
Esmod
Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m.
MINGLEWOOD HALL
Gary Topper’s Symmetry
Some of the nest compositions and arrangements in the city.
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m.
B-SIDE
Happy Hour at the Brooks: Doughrollers
Local band Doughrollers are perfect for dancing and relaxing. ursday, Sept. 11, 6-7:30 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Hustle & Flows: The Legacy of Memphis
Jazz Jam Session:
Hosted by Henry Conerway III
Young up-and-coming musicians and local jazz veterans alike join together for spontaneous music-making. $7. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS
Jazz Jam with the Cove Quartet
Jazz musicians are welcome to sit in! Sunday, Sept. 14, 6-9 p.m.
THE COVE
Joe Restivo 4 Guitarist Restivo leads one of the city’s nest jazz quartets. Sunday, Sept. 14, noon.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Landslide (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)
Sunday, Sept. 14, 5 p.m.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Lawrence Matthews Album Listening Session
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.
MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB
Level Three
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 10 p.m.
LOUIS CONNELLY’S BAR
Lukah (Orion Free Concert Series)
Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
OVERTON PARK SHELL
Marqo Dane Album Listening Session
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB
Master / Penetration
/ Grave Lurker / Axcromancer
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m.
HI TONE
Modern Masters: Jerry Weldon and Ted Ludwig Trio ft. Pat Bianchi & Stephen Pruitt
Movie Nite
With Camper Of e Week, Sweet Babu, Magik Hours. Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m.
B-SIDE
Multi Ultra
With FDAT, Shorty and the Grooves. Saturday, Sept. 13, 8 p.m. HI TONE
Mystrio
With DJ Jos Heat, DJ Fatherdad, and Aberrant at 10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m.
The Rice Drewry Collective Friday, Sept. 12, 6 p.m.
LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM
Yachtly Crew
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 8:30 p.m.
MINGLEWOOD HALL
Benton Parker Album Release Party
ursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
Berklee Musically Me Workshop
Free Berklee workshop for middle, high school, and college students exploring music careers and college pathways. Free. ursday, Sept. 11, 5-7:30 p.m.
Chicken S#iT Bingo
With Timbo Lo & Casper Allen. Sunday, Sept. 14, 3-6 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
Doc Martin & the Mysterious Cowboys
Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
James Taylor and His All-Star Band
A night of timeless music, featuring hits like “Fire and Rain.” With special guest Tiny Habits. Saturday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m.
BANKPLUS AMPHITHEATER
Royal Blues Band
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S SOUTHWIND
Ruby Dice
With Calloway. ursday, Sept. 11, 10 p.m.
HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY
The Bugaloos Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S SOUTHAVEN
Concerts in The Grove: Amy LaVere
An artist at the top of her cra , singer-songwriter Amy LaVere pairs clever, pointed lyrics with a captivating voice. $9/general admission. ursday, Sept. 11, 6:30-8 p.m.
THE GROVE AT GERMANTOWN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Davis Coen & the Downstream Drifters
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S OLIVE BRANCH
Duane Cleveland Band
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S GERMANTOWN
Even Odds
Sunday, Sept. 14, 8 p.m.
HUEY’S CORDOVA
Jazz in the Box: The Brandon Goldberg Trio
Praised for his “unassailable technique, advanced harmonic understanding,” and “deep sense of swing” by Downbeat magazine. $45/ general admission. Friday, Sept. 12, 7-8:30 p.m.
GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Ken Houston Duo Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30 p.m.
HUEY’S MILLINGTON
Peanut Butter & Jam: Music Box Live Show
Children and parents are invited to learn and move!
Free. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10:3011:30 a.m.
GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
12Eleven Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m. HI TONE
Amy LaVere with Will Sexton (6 p.m. and 8 p.m. shows)
Witness an intimate, unforgettable night of music in a rare live-album recorded show. $20/GA (advance) + fees, $25/ GA (door). Saturday, Sept. 13, 6 p.m.
THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS
A concert series with the city’s most promising voices in hip-hop, R&B, and soul. $31. Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m.
GROWLERS
Insane Clown Posse
All ages. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5 p.m.
MINGLEWOOD HALL
Insomniac / Nonconnah / Neon Glittery
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 8 p.m.
HI TONE
Jerry Weldon is an internationally recognized Modern Master of saxophone. is will be an evening of incredible music by Weldon and the Amazing Organ Quartet. $20/ GA (advance), $25/GA (door), $10/student . Friday, Sept. 12, 7:30-10 p.m.
THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS
Mothcat
With Swinging Astrid, Zoë Dominguez. Sunday, Sept. 14, 8 p.m.
HI TONE
STAX MUSIC ACADEMY
Blackberry Smoke
Drawing inspiration from Southern rock, blues-leaning classic rock, and rootsy vintage country, this band’s music is full of vivid and relatable characters. $47.75/reserved seating (all-in pricing). ursday, Sept. 11, 7:30-10 p.m.
GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE
Shaw & Chall
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30 p.m.
HUEY’S GERMANTOWN
The Double D’s
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S COLLIERVILLE
The Java Trio
Sunday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.
HUEY’S MILLINGTON
The Java Trio
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30 p.m.
HUEY’S CORDOVA
CALENDAR of EVENTS: September 11 - 17
ART AND SPECIAL EXHIBITS
“2024 Accessions to the Permanent Collection” is series honors the new additions to the museum’s permanent collection each calendar year. rough Nov. 2.
METAL MUSEUM
Arnold Thompson Exhibition
ompson is a multimedia artist whose vision de es genre classi cation. He dubs his work “Synthesism,” to indicate hybrid expressions of diverse experiences he has lived and observed. Free. rough Sept. 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
“Artiful Adventure”: Works by Phyllis Boger, Suzanne Evans, and Barrie Skoda Foster Gallery Ten Ninety-One is pleased to present original paintings by Phyllis Boger, Suzanne Evans, and Barrie Skoda Foster. rough Sept. 26.
WKNO DIGITAL MEDIA CENTER
“B.B. King in Memphis” Exhibit
1982, B.B. King performed at the Mud Island Amphitheater. Photographer Alan Copeland documented the moment in these stunning black and white photographs. rough Oct. 19.
STAX MUSEUM OF AMERICAN SOUL MUSIC
Beth Edwards: “Quietude” Detailed images that convey a sense of silence and calm, in vibrant colors. rough Oct. 11.
DAVID LUSK GALLERY
“Bleeding Together – A Correspondence”
A collaboration between Andres Arauz, who specializes in photo collage, design, and photography, and Abby Meyers, a visual artist, poet, and award-winning lmmaker. rough Sept. 14.
CROSSTOWN ARTS AT THE CONCOURSE
Cat Lenke: “Wild Light, Urban Lines: A Watercolor Journey Through the City & Forest”
rough the uid and expressive medium of watercolor, the artist captures the quiet majesty of forests and the bold geometry of cities — each rendered with luminous detail and reverence for light. rough Sept. 26.
ANF ARCHITECTS
“CREATE | CREA”
A dynamic space designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and hands-on exploration. is vibrant environment invites guests of all ages to dive into the creative process. rough Sept. 21.
THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
Dezmond Gipson:
“Generally Digital”
As a self-professed “digital generalist,” Gipson explores multiple modes of expression through digital media, blurring the line between personal and commercial output. rough Oct. 10.
BEVERLY + SAM ROSS GALLERY
Ernest Withers: “I AM A MAN”
Ernest Withers’s famous photographs of the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike illustrate the dignity of workers’ activism, which still feels inspirational decades later. rough Oct. 12.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
“[Fe]ATURED
AR[Ti]STS”
Works created and curated by sta members of the Metal Museum. Just as elements are the building blocks of artists’ materials, the museum is built on creativity, collaboration, and tradition. rough Sept. 14.
CROSSTOWN ARTS AT THE CONCOURSE
“Horizon Lines”: Anthony Lee, Matthew Lee, and Sowgand Sheikholeslami
Working independently west of Memphis in Arkansas, along the corridor of US Highway 61, these artists have each created bodies of work showcasing the unique characteristics of the region. rough Sept. 21.
THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
Kristi Duckworth Exhibition
Duckworth majored in graphic design at the University of Memphis but gravitated towards the more hands-on mediums of pottery and mosaics a er technology took over in graphic art. Free. rough Sept. 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
“Landshaping: The Origins of the Black Belt Prairie”
Learn about the geologic event known as the Mississippi Embayment and its e ect on this region. Fossils and farm tools will be displayed alongside photographs by Houston Co eld. rough Oct. 12.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
“Last Whistle: Steamboat Stories of Memphis” Featuring detailed model boats and original steamboat artifacts, this exhibit rekindles the romance of the steamboat era while sharing stories and insights about their role in shaping the region. rough June 26.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
“Layers”: New Works by Carolyn Cates
Uniquely layered views of nature. rough Sept. 22.
BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER
Send the date, time, place, cost, info, phone number, a brief description, and photos — two weeks in advance — to calendar@memphisflyer.com.
DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS WILL APPEAR IN THE FLYER’S ONLINE CALENDAR ONLY. FOR COMPREHENSIVE EVENT LISTINGS, SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT EVENTS.MEMPHISFLYER.COM/CAL.
Laurelwood Grand Opening, Goetze Art & Design Debuting “Endless Skies” by Kurt Meer, featuring birds, landscapes, and scenes that hum with quiet beauty. ursday, Sept. 11, 5:30-8 p.m. GOETZE ART & DESIGN
BOOK EVENTS
A Novel Book Club: You’d Look Better as a Ghost
All are welcome to discuss this work by Joanna Wallace, whether you’ve ever attended a meeting or not. No registration required. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 7 p.m. NOVEL
Silent Book Club Maggie and Linzie, aka the Book Clubbin’ Besties, are hosting a silent book club meeting with Stacie’s Sweets on hand. Free. Sunday, Sept. 14, 2 p.m. NOVEL
“Navigating Knowledge” is exhibition explores vessels and navigation as metaphors for the containment and transmission of knowledge. rough Oct. 31.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
“Overcoming Hateful Things”
Subtitled “Stories from the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Imagery,” the exhibition contains over 150 items from the late 19th century to the present. rough Oct. 19.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
Poonam Kumar
Exhibition
e artist notes: “Watercolor is my preferred medium; however, I indulge in other mediums such as pencil, ink, pastel, and acrylic.” Free. rough Sept. 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
Sarah Elizabeth Cornejo: “The Scarcity of Sand” ese works explore the living grief of contending with our own mortality, questioning how a person chooses to act in the present in response to faith and fear. rough Nov. 1.
CLOUGH-HANSON GALLERY
Sean Nash: “Cosmic Produce”
Sculptural paintings that take their shaped forms from marine organisms, painted in vivid splashy and dappled colors, orders of magnitude larger than reality. rough Sept. 14.
TOPS AT MADISON AVENUE PARK
“Speaking Truth to Power: The Life of Bayard Rustin”
Exhibition
“Speaking Truth to Power” explores Bayard Rustin’s innovative use of the “medium” to communicate powerful messages of nonviolence, activism, and authenticity. $20/adult, $18/senior, college student, $17/children 5-17. rough Dec. 31.
NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM
Steve Nelson Exhibition Nelson has studied acrylic painting with Marilyn Wannamaker and Judy Nocifora. His style is loose and impressionistic. rough Sept. 30.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
Summer Art Garden: “A Flash of Sun”
Immerse yourself in the radiant spirit of summer with these geometric sculptures that cast vibrant hues in the shi ing sunlight. rough Oct. 20.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
“Summer Vibes” Exhibit Local artists Carol Adamec, Phyllis Boger, Dana DeLarme, Nancy Jehl, David Rawlinson, Michael Somers have a combined exhibit. rough Sept. 24.
ST. GEORGE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
“Susan Watkins and Women Artists of the Progressive Era” Centered on the career of Watkins, the exhibition explores the environment in which Watkins and other fe-
male artists of the time forged their professional identities. rough Sept. 28. THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
Tad Lauritzen Wright: “Zen on the Installment Plan”
Contemplating humanity, nature, and repeated histories through photo abstractions and sculptural works constructed from salvaged wood. rough Sept. 14.
CROSSTOWN ARTS AT THE CONCOURSE
Tributaries: Leah Gerrard’s “Longline” Seattle-based fabrication artist Leah Gerrard, the museum’s newest Tributaries artist, shapes ethereal steel forms, blending basketry, jewelry, and large-scale pieces. Free. rough Sept. 14. METAL MUSEUM
ART HAPPENINGS
Canvas for a Cause Fundraiser for the UrbanArt Commission, where 6x6” canvases will be for sale. Your donation can support free workshops that enhance artists’ skills and competitiveness for local and national opportunities, free exhibition space for solo or group exhibitions without any commission, a paid internship program, and more. Friday, Sept. 12, 6-9 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. THE UGLY ART COMPANY
Victoria Capek: Dear Reader: An Immersive Literary Journey Through Taylor Swift’s Lyrics e author speaks with Sarah Hunter Simanson about her book, focused on the literary Easter eggs in Swi ’s lyrics. Friday, Sept. 12, 6 p.m. NOVEL
Travel through time with this lecture series on Western art, beginning with prehistoric art and focusing on a new period each week. $12. ursday, Sept. 11, 6-7:30 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Beginners Casting: Frozen in Time
Lawler Foundry Classes are project-speci c, a ordable, and enjoyable metal casting classes designed for novicelevel students. No experience necessary. $240/beginners casting class registration. Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
METAL MUSEUM
Country Swing Dance Lessons
It’s never too late to start and a partner is not required to join the class. Friday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m.
WHISKEY JILL’S
continued on page 20
PHOTO: COURTESY DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
Anthony Lee will speak as one of the artists featured in “Horizon Lines,” whose bodies of work showcase the unique characteristics of the Arkansas landscape.
continued from page 19
Dance Lessons
Swing lessons with Matt and Lara, 7:30 p.m.; line dancing with Boss Lady, 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m.
WHISKEY JILL’S
Día de los Muertos
Teacher Workshop
A workshop organized with Cazateatro, focused on the culture and traditions behind Día de los Muertos, the work of José Guadalupe Posada, and printmaking methods. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.noon.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Economic Development Forum
A premier regional business conference to accelerate growth. Free. Thursday, Sept. 11, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
RENASANT CONVENTION CENTER
Lunchtime Meditations
Visit the Dixon for free meditation sessions every Friday. Friday, Sept. 12, noon-12:30 p.m.
THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
Mah Jongg Lessons
Learn this fun and fascinating game that is sweeping the nation. $65/general admission for three lessons. Monday, Sept. 15, 5:30-8 p.m.
LOST PIZZA CO. SOUTHAVEN
Museum Muses: Turning Leaves
Sayali Abhyankar teaches the ancient art of Madhubani painting through the lens of fall’s vibrant transformation. Create a piece inspired by the brilliant turning leaves of autumn. Free. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY
Navigating the Nonprofit World Workshop
Join New Memphis for an interactive workshop designed specifically for new and emerging nonprofit organizations. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY
Oil Painting for Adults: Masterpiece Series
An eight-week class offering step-by-step guidance, time to experiment, and plenty of encouragement. All materials provided. $375. Thursday, Sept. 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Seed Library Presents: Colorcopia
Learn about what’s growing at the Dixon while getting creative with ever-changing, seasonally inspired crafts. All supplies provided. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 1 p.m.
BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY
Super Saturday - Wire Sculptures
Sculpt with wire! Trace unique forms and discover the artistry hidden in this versatile material. Perfect for all ages. Free. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-noon.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Urban Forestry Advisor’s Class 2025
Classes are designed for the public, municipal employees, plant-related nonprofits, arboretums, members of neighborhood associations, tree boards, garden clubs, and plant societies. $120/ general admission. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
COMEDY
Comedy Night with Ben Pierce
Freewheeling hilarity on the open mic. Thursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m.
BAR DKDC
Matt Mathews
Mathews’ live show is nothing short of a bona fide barn burner, guaranteed to provide bountiful belly laughs for all who attend. $64.25/ reserved seating (all-in pricing). Saturday, Sept. 13, 8-10:30 p.m.
GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE
Open Mic Comedy Night
A hilarious Midtown tradition, hosted by John Miller. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 8 p.m. HI TONE
COMMUNITY
Celebrate What’s Right: Anchoring the Community - A Conversation with the Memphis Medical District
Join New Memphis for a conversation celebrating the innovative approach to building and sustaining a successful economic district. Monday, Sept. 15, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
BRIDGES
Free Wash Week!
Wash and dry for free all week. Monday, Sept. 15-Sept. 19.
BEST WASH LAUNDROMATS
Game Night with The Fellowship of Avalon
The Fellowship of Avalon
Memphis ATC Church, The Fellowship of Yggdrasil, and
CALENDAR: SEPTEMBER 11 - 17
FILM
Black Holes
This planetarium show gives an overview of what black holes are, how they form, and what would happen if you fell inside one. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 2 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
Film Premiere: Blood Money 5
An elusive favorite finally has its moment. Thursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m.
B-SIDE
Forward to the Moon
The Broom Closet present this monthly church game night. Sunday, Sept. 14, 7 p.m.
THE BROOM CLOSET
Greensward Games
A relaxed and friendly environment, with some games provided. Feel free to bring yours to share. Sunday, Sept. 14, noon-4 p.m.
OVERTON PARK
Halloran Centre 10th
Anniversary Free Community Day
Free fun for the whole family! Sunday, Sept. 14, 1-5 p.m.
HALLORAN CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS & EDUCATION
Memphis Polyamory Meetup
A welcoming space to connect, share, and support one another. Monday, Sept. 15, 7 p.m.
DRU’S BAR
Move Mississippi: Fighting Obesity one Step at a time 5K Walk
A fun, family-friendly 5K walk in Byhalia Park. Open to all ages and fitness levels. $20. Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-noon.
BYHALIA PARK, BYHALIA, MS
EXPO/SALES
DeSoto County Schools
College & Career Fair
This two-day event is a targeted opportunity to recruit future talent, showcase career pathways, and assist over 2,000 seniors preparing for their next step beyond graduation. Tuesday, Sept. 16-Sept. 17.
LANDERS CENTER
FAMILY
Get Outside Fitness: KidoKinetics
Through age-appropriate games and activities, young children build confidence, coordination, and a love for active play. Thursday, Sept. 11, 5 p.m.
SHELBY FARMS PARK
Get Outside Fitness: Kids Yoga
Designed to be fun and engaging, this teaches basic yoga poses with playful names. Parents are welcome to join, too. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5-6 p.m.
SHELBY FARMS PARK
Homeschool DayColor Theory
Learn about color theory by using coffee filters, water, and markers to mix and break down the colors of the rainbow with this morning of experiments. Free. Thursday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m.-noon.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Memphis Parks Market
A family-friendly event featuring a fun zone, shirt giveaways, frozen treats, and free membership sign-ups. Free. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.
BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY
National Hispanic Heritage Month at CMOM
Delve into the culture of Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia, and Puerto Rico with daily hands-on activities during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Through Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MEMPHIS
Pre-School Story Time
Stories, songs, art activities, and creative play tied to Collierville history. Friday, Sept. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
MORTON MUSEUM OF COLLIERVILLE HISTORY
September Family Day: Celebrating Literacy
Month
Alice Faye Duncan will read from her upcoming children’s book about B.B. King. Also featuring creative writing workshops, live music, food trucks, and arts and crafts. Free. Saturday, Sept. 13, 1-5 p.m.
STAX MUSEUM OF AMERICAN SOUL MUSIC
Special Story Time Event: Cairo’s Big Adventure: Magic in the Moment, with Terriah L. Carver Songs and stories, featuring brand-new books and wellloved favorites. Saturday, Sept. 13, 10:30 a.m. NOVEL
Story Time at Novel
Recommended for children up to 5 years. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 10:30 a.m. NOVEL
FESTIVAL
2025 Memphis Pride Festival
With over 175 vendors and exhibitors, a grand Pride parade, two stages with live entertainment including headliners, local musicians, drag artists, and special guest speakers. Sunday, Sept. 14, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
OVERTON PARK SHELL
Cooper-Young Festival
Over 130,000 guests will enjoy an appealing mix of art, music, and crafts presented by over 435 artisans from around the country. It’s a true celebration of the arts, people, and culture in Memphis. Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
COOPER-YOUNG HISTORIC DISTRICT
A planetarium show about the Artemis program, NASA’s project to return to the moon, from landing humans on the surface, to building a space station in lunar orbit, to establishing a human lunar base. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 3 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
Memphis Skies: What’s That in Our Night Sky?
Hop through constellations, learn cool star names, and groove to space music in this full dome planetarium experience. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 4 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
Oceans: Our Blue Planet
Embark on a global odyssey to discover the largest and least explored habitat on earth. New ocean science and technology has allowed us to go further into the unknown than we ever thought possible. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 1 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
The Sound of Music: 60th Anniversary
A young novice is sent by her convent in 1930s Austria to become a governess to the seven children of a widowed naval officer. Sunday, Sept. 14, 4 p.m. MALCO PARADISO
Superman
From DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures comes the first feature film in the newly imagined DC universe. Written and directed by James Gunn, the film stars David Corenswet as Superman. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 3 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
The Blues Society
This film explores the grassroots organization that created the Memphis Country Blues Festival in the ’60s. Sunday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m. WISEACRE HQ
The Blues Society
Director Augusta Palmer will be joined by interviewees Jimmy Crosthwait, Misty Blue Lavender, and Chris Wimmer. $5. Thursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m. CROSSTOWN THEATER
PHOTO: COURTESY GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE
Matt Matthews is not only funny; he’s that rare creature, a social media superstar from Alabama.
PHOTO: COURTESY HALLORAN CENTRE
Riley Thad Young is but one of the local stars who’ve gone from the Bluff City to Broadway.
T. Rex: Greatest of All Tyrants
The most dazzling and accurate giant screen documentary ever made on this legendary predator — and its carnivorous Cretaceous cousins. Thursday, Sept. 11-Sept. 17, 1 p.m.
PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION
FOOD AND DRINK
Perfect Pairings
An elegant fundraising event hosted by the Decorative Arts Trust to support the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, uniting celebrated chefs, designers, and tastemakers to create stunning tablescapes. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6-9 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Prom Night
With a photo booth and a king and queen crowning. Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m.
LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE
Refined Palettes: Art and Wine Pairing
If there’s one world that’s more intimidating that fine art, it might be that of fine wine. $45/general admission. Thursday, Sept. 11, 5-7 p.m.
MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
Rombauer Wine Dinner
Indulge in an evening with Rombauer Vineyards! $125. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
BOG & BARLEY
Slider Sunday Sessions
With curated DJ sets and drinks. Sunday, Sept. 14, 6-9 p.m.
SLIDER INN - DOWNTOWN
LECTURE
Munch and Learn: “Horizons”
Mallory/Wurtzburger artist Anthony Lee will speak on his work. Wednesday, Sept. 17, noon-1 p.m.
THE DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS
The Blues in Memphis: Past, Present, and Future
A tribute from the library’s Genealogy Center. Saturday, Sept. 13, 1-3 p.m.
ORANGE MOUND LIBRARY
The Botanical Science of Flavor Nadia of BlackMajesTEA shows how plants shape our world through the lens of flavor, culture, and identity. $40/general admission.
Sunday, Sept. 14, 1-3 p.m.
MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
Trash Talk: Inside the Modern Landfill and Recycling Industry
Jason West of Republic Services discusses recycling and sustainability. Wednesday, Sept. 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
WOLF RIVER CONSERVANCY
PERFORMING ARTS
30 Days of Opera Visit operamemphis.org for a daily schedule of these public operatic encounters. Through Sept. 30.
VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Bluff City to Broadway and Beyond: Celebrating 10 Years at the Halloran Centre
Featuring performances from Orpheum program alumni that have gone from the Bluff City to Broadway and beyond, this sensational celebration is a cabaret style musical revue.
A fun and funky fundraiser that brings the magic of 10 exciting shows to life! Tuesday, Sept. 16, 6 p.m.
PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE
Griot Voice: Dr. LaSimba Gray
The first event in the Griot Voice series, featuring Dr. LaSimba Gray. Experience the timeless tradition of storytelling that connects us to our roots and honors our past. Monday, Sept. 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
HATTILOO THEATRE
Keetje Kuipers Poetry Reading
A free poetry reading with visiting writer Keetje Kuipers. Friday, Sept. 12, 1-2 p.m.
PATTERSON HALL, UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
Pride Kink Night
A celebration of non-vanilla-ness. Dungeon party at 10 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m.
HI TONE
The Gayest Day of the Year
A night of drag, and celebration. Live music by Divergent at 6 p.m., drag show at 9, then karaoke. $15, $10/with Mid-South Pride Festival ticket. Saturday, Sept. 13, 6 p.m.
DRU’S BAR
SPORTS
9/11 Heroes Run
Course route includes the Mullins Station event field. Saturday, Sept. 13, 8 a.m.
SHELBY FARMS PARK
Memphis Roller Derby Double Header with 901 Wrestling
Watch a 901 Wrestling match AND Memphis Roller Derby game! $20/adults, $5/youth (ages 5-13). Saturday, Sept. 13, 2-6 p.m.
PIPKIN BUILDING
THEATER
Come From Away
Regional premiere of an incredible true story of the 7,000 stranded passengers forced to land in a small town in Newfoundland. Thursday, Sept. 11, 8 p.m. | Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 8 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 14, 2 p.m.
PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Set in a bustling hair-braiding shop in Harlem, where a lively and eclectic group of West African immigrant hair-braiders create masterpieces on the heads of neighborhood women. Friday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 14, 2:30 p.m.
HATTILOO THEATRE
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding Brunch and Performance with A Step Ahead Foundation & Hattiloo Theatre
Celebrate the beauty of connection and the strength of community with a pre-show brunch, followed by a performance, plus storytelling with the A Step Ahead Foundation! $50/general admission. Saturday, Sept. 13, 1-4 p.m.
18 What the computer Deep Thought was programmed to figure out in “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”
21 Michael’s wife in “The Godfather”
22 Give as an example
23 Life lines?
24 Environmental destruction
26 Spreading out
Mystiques
32 Common bar mixer
33 Wine glass part 34 “u r 2 funny” 35 In good shape 36 Pigeon sound 37 Hall-of-Fame player whose number has been retired by every team in Major League Baseball
Young ’un
← What this is for this puzzle
Mer contents
Sharpen
Michael of “Superbad”
Safe place
Surges
Setter or retriever 53 TV’s “Murder, ___ Wrote”
Line of clothing?
___ Valley, neighborhood in San Francisco
56 He served between Bush 41 and Bush 43
62 Supermarket section
63 Bill
64 Cousin of a weasel
65 Uses performanceenhancing drugs 66 Quite gaunt 67 Sloughs off
1 Part of a Hanukkah meal 2 “___ is Gorges” (T-shirt slogan) 3 “Peace out” 4 Belly, in babyspeak
5 Cereal brand with a weight-loss challenge
6 One hell of a writer?
7 Pennsylvania city
Economist Bernanke
Playground game
Michael’s family in “The Godfather”
Sterling silver and such
Some movie f/x
Yellow card issuer
Rock band?
Buttresses
First half of a Beatles title
Nunsense: The Musical
This habit-forming show has gained such popularity since it’s inception in 1985 that it has spawned six sequels, two television adaptations, and is translated into 26 languages around the world. Friday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 14, 2:30 p.m.
GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY THEATRE
The Fantasticks
The funny, romantic story about a boy, a girl, and their two fathers who try to keep them apart. The narrator, El Gallo, takes the audience into a world of moonlight, magic, and young love. Friday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 14, 2:30 p.m.
HARRELL THEATRE
The Legends of Quetzatcoatl
Guided by the Guerrero Jaguar, this bilingual play presented by Cazateatro takes the audience through the rise and fall of four ancient worlds in Mexican mythology. Thursday, Sept. 11, 8 p.m. | Friday, Sept. 12, 8 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 13, 8 p.m.
THEATREWORKS AT EVERGREEN
by Will Shortz No.
PUZZLE BY DAMON GULCZYNSKI
We Saw You.
with MICHAEL DONAHUE
“We Saw You” returns to its roots this week. e longtime Memphis Flyer column at one time featured photos of people taken on the street instead of just numerous photos of people attending the same event.
“We Saw You” will now include — every so o en, but not every week —shots of people taken here, there, and everywhere.
So, if you see a man with big bushy hair and horn-rimmed glasses stick a camera in your face and hand you a business card that shows half of his face, it might be somebody who is “seeing you.” Don’t worry. He’ll ask if he can take your photo before he actually takes it. e photos go on @ yerdonahue on Instagram. Some of the pictures will appear in this column.
Photo locations in this week’s column include Gibson’s Donuts; Pete & Sam’s; Renee’s Sandwich Shop; Clippers & Shears Barber Lounge; Huey’s Downtown; a Vesta Home Show Hidden Creek groundbreaking event for the 2025 Fall Vesta Home Show, which will be November 8th through 30th; and Woofstock, a bene t show for Team Memphis Rescue. Woofstock was held August 30th at Wiseacre Brewing Company headquarters.
above: Jack Flood, Lindon Victor, and Harrison Williams below: (le to right) Alex and Kim Grisanti, LuccaBella Grisanti, and Wally Brewer; Adam and Laura Yancey; Jason Crews bottom row: (le to right) Steven Williams, Taylor Lewallen, and McCall Wilson; Harrison Swords
PHOTOS: MICHAEL DONAHUE
above: Charles Hall, Steven Wiliams, and Jewel Jordan circle: Susan Billings
right row: (top and below) Victoria Penny and Benjamin Ballard; Elliott Bexley and Stephanie Rolley below: (le to right) Drew Austell; Jason Bobo; Calvin Farrer; Alvin Youngblood Hart and Ann Rutledge bottom le : White and B. Taylor
EXPERIENCE NEW ORLEANS
Bringing Creole Experiences to Memphis for 35 years
FOOD By Michael
Donahue
‘Cibo Gustoso’
Milano’s Pizza serves up “tasty food.”
As a child, Antonio Daniele helped his dad and his brothers, who were commercial shermen in their hometown of Bari, Italy. He was too young to be a sherman, but Antonio helped out at the sh market, taking money from customers and putting sh in bags.
Now, except for occasional trips to a lake, the only shing the Daniele brothers do is maybe pull an anchovy out of a can and slap it on a pizza.
ree of the ve Daniele brothers, which include Vito, Nick, Joey, and John Daniele, moved to the United States, where two of them opened Milano’s Pizza restaurant in Raleigh Springs Mall.
Fishing was hard work back in Italy. “My dad and uncle had a shing boat,” says Antonio, who is co-owner with his son, Marco Daniele, of Milano’s Pizza at 7936 Highway 51 North in Millington, Tennessee. “ ey’d go catch sh and send it to the market.”
His dad and brothers began their day with their commercial nets “at 2 in the morning and came back at 5 in the a ernoon.” at was in summer and winter.
None of them knew anything about the restaurant business until they moved to the United States in the ’80s, Antonio says. ey wanted to learn a di erent trade from shing, which was a cold and miserable business.
ey learned the pizza business working for a year at a New York pizzeria before moving to Memphis, where they bought the Raleigh Springs Mall pizza restaurant. “My dad gave them the money to buy this place over here.”
eir dad didn’t want Antonio to become a commercial sherman. He encouraged him to move to the United States, which he did in 1988. His father gave him some words of advice: “It’s just up to you if you want to learn something.” He told him, “Love what you do.” en he’ll be “able to do anything.”
Milano’s Pizza began to grow. “We started expanding,” Antonio says. His brother, Nick, opened up a restaurant at 7625 US-64 Number 109 on Bartlett Boulevard, and Vito opened one at 128 West Liberty Avenue in Covington, Tennessee. Each restaurant has its own personality, Antonio says.
Antonio opened his own location in Oak Court Mall. He then moved to Peabody Place Mall, where he opened Napoli Pizza, before moving to his Millington location.
He describes their fare as “New York style more than South Italy.”
eir pizza, which they sell by the slice as well as the whole pie, is thin crust as opposed to the deep dish Chicago-style pizza. ey also sell “double crust,” which, Antonio says, is “like deep dish. It’s stu ed pizza. Double crust.” e topping goes over the rst crust and then another crust is put on top of that.
“‘Supreme’ with everything on it” is their most popular pizza, he says. His menu also includes spaghetti with meatballs and sauce, chicken parmigiana, lasagna, chicken Alfredo, and ravioli. ey cook from scratch, he says, with ingredients from New York. “We get trucks coming from New York every week bringing stu we need.” He doesn’t mind the extra cost if it makes a better product. “You can buy 50 cent cheese or $5 cheese.”
But, unlike some pizza restaurants who order their water from New York to get that Big Apple taste, Antonio and his brothers use Memphis water. “We don’t get our water shipped. Our water is good over here in Memphis.”
Antonio now just works on ursdays since he handed over the reins to his son, Marco, 31. “He wants this to be his future.”
Marco began working at the restaurant when he was 12 years old. A er high school, he held several jobs as well as attending Southwest Tennessee Community College, where he studied psychology. But then his dad told him his plans for Milano’s Pizza. He said, “I don’t think I’m going to do this anymore. … I’m thinking about selling it.”
Marco realized if he didn’t step in, “the legacy will end.”
“I love it now,” Marco says. “I had children. I’m someone in this community. I bought my house here. at feeling of being a part of something is an innate drive in human beings.”
Asked what else sets Milano’s Pizza apart from other Italian eateries, Antonio says, “ e love. When I make something for a customer, I make it like I make it for myself.”
PHOTO: MICHAEL DONAHUE Antonio and Marco Daniele
FRIDAY OCT 10
FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms
Join us for a fantastic evening of great tastes and great fun, bringing together bourbon and whiskey distillers from around the region PLUS great bites from some of your favorite local restaurants! VIP Admission starts at 5pm, GA at 6pm.
HOSTED BY BENEFITTING
FEATURING
BUSTERS LIQUORS + CROWN ROYAL + BULLEIT
JOHNNIE WALKER + GEORGE DICKEL
LEIPERS FORK DISTILLERY + TIN CUP BOURBON
STRANAHAN’S + PENDLETON BOURBON
OLD DOMINICK + THE GENRE
SNH LINKED + MORE ADDED WEEKLY!
By the editors at Andrews McMeel Syndication
Only You Can Prevent Stupidity
When an unnamed man got caught after stealing Smokey Bear signs from state forests in Florida, Smokey himself was on hand to aid in the arrest, WTSPTV reported on July 31. Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said the suspect had traveled from Pensacola to Orlando, lifting the signs and posting them on Facebook Marketplace for $1,900 each. Smokey held the door open for the perp as he entered the patrol truck and was seen in the driver’s seat after the arrest. [WTSP, 7/31/2025]
Wrong Place, Wrong Time
After the large earthquake on July 29 in western Russia, tsunami warnings were communicated all the way to the U.S. West Coast. A Norwegian Cruise Lines ship docked at Hilo, Hawaii, took heed and left the port for the safety of its guests. But a group of passengers who were still on shore got the warning of the ship’s departure too late, KHON-TV reported. Eric Anderson and his father were separated from their family, who had gone back to the ship. Anderson said the ship had texted that it would leave at 4 p.m., but it departed closer to 3:30. Fortunately, local residents transported the stranded passengers to Waiakea High School, where they spent the night. They were reunited with their families on July 30 after the warnings were canceled. [KHON, 7/30/2025]
Sports Whiplash
On July 31, as the Tampa Bay Rays battled the New York Yankees in the Bronx, one player ended up “winning today regardless,” the Associated Press reported. Jose Caballero, 28, started the game with the Rays and played through the sixth inning. But during the seventh-inning stretch, he was traded to the Yankees. The deal was announced after the rain-delayed game, which the Yankees won. Caballero reportedly hugged his Tampa teammates in the dugout, then turned up in the Yankees clubhouse to conduct his post-game interview. [AP, 7/31/2025]
Police Report
Boy, Chuck E. Cheese is a hotbed of weird behavior these days. This installment involves a brawl that took place on July 26 at a location in Mobile, Alabama. WKRG-TV reported that witnesses said about 20 people were fighting
because a teenage boy “got upset about something.” “They started fighting as I was walking by,” said a girl who was hit in the face, “and then they punched me on accident.” The Mobile Police Department is investigating by watching surveillance video and reaching out to those involved. Public Information Officer Roderick Miles advised that people in such circumstances “try to do something that’s going to result in better decisions than fighting at a freaking Chuck E. Cheese.” [WKRG, 7/30/2025]
Fish Flambé, S’il Vous Plaît Fire investigators in British Columbia, Canada, discovered an unlikely culprit in a brush fire that knocked out power in the town of Ashcroft on July 30: a hungry osprey. Ashcroft Fire Rescue posted on social media that the peckish avian pulled a large fish from a river about two miles away, but as it labored to fly with its super-sized meal in the July heat, it became tired and eventually dropped the fish ... directly onto a power line, which sparked the blaze in the dry grass below. NBC Bay Area reported that it took about 4,800 gallons of water to stop the fire — quite a lot of trouble over a bird whose eyes were bigger than its stomach. “Another suspicion could be that it’s tired of raw fish and wanted to give cooked a try,” the post from Ashcroft Fire Rescue said. [NBC Bay Area, 8/5/2025]
New World Order
A zoo in northern Denmark has made an unsettling request of pet owners in Aalborg, the Associated Press reported. In a July 31 Facebook post, the zoo suggested, “If you have an animal that has to leave here for various reasons, feel free to donate it to us.” Not for a domestic pet display, mind you. The zoo is planning to “gently euthanize” the donated animals and feed them to its predators. Zoo officials said they’re trying to mimic the natural food chain, calling out specifically guinea pigs, rabbits, and chickens as preferred donations. “That way, nothing goes to waste — and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being of our predators,” the post read. [AP, 8/4/2025]
ARIES (March 21-April 19): I can’t speak the Quechua language, which is Indigenous to the Andes Mountains. But I have lifted one of their words to use for our purposes here: munay. It refers to an intensely practical and visionary love that includes far more than sweet feelings and affection. When we practice munay, we offer discerning respect and detailed appreciation to those we adore. We are generously eager to help our allies live their best lives. It takes discipline! And focus! And ingenuity! To be a rigorous and vigorous source of munay, we must cultivate it as a daily practice. In the coming weeks, Aries, I hope you will go a bit wild in your expression of this tender force of nature. Imagine yourself as a gentle whirlwind of love that spreads interesting beauty and bestows useful blessings. Be a relentless dispenser of catalytic gifts.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The medieval Persian polymath Avicenna believed the soul entered the fetus not with the first heartbeat, but with the first dream. I offer this idea for your poetic consideration, dear Taurus. Let’s imagine that the next beautiful thing you create will not arise from your forceful intention. Rather, it will emerge because you give yourself permission to fantasize, to wander freely in wonder, and to meander with curiosity on the frontiers. Your assignment is not to hustle, but to incubate; not to push forward, but to dwell expectantly in the mystery.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The bowerbird constructs elaborate ground-based shrines not as nests but as seduction lures. The enticer might gather blue bottle caps, yellow flowers, and shiny stones so as to create a scene that piques the attention of a potential mate. These objets d’art are not merely decorative. They are displays that demonstrate discernment, skill, and aesthetic intelligence. I authorize you to be like a bowerbird, Gemini. What collection of symbols, words, gestures, and curiosities will magnetize the people or opportunities you long to engage with? It’s not about flashiness; it’s about alignment. What you draw into your sphere will reflect the vibes you emanate.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): The pearl doesn’t begin as treasure. In its earliest form, it’s an irritation: a grain of sand that’s really a wound inside the oyster. Over time, the creature coats it with layers of nacre, turning discomfort into luminescence. Let’s use that as a metaphor for you, Cancerian. In my view, your task right now is not to escape or shed what’s bugging you, but to expedite the coating process. What is that gritty thing? A memory, injustice, or unmet yearning? It’s crucial you don’t reject it and don’t let it fester. I think it’s best to turn it, layer by layer, into a luminous asset, even a
By Rob Brezsny
treasure. Prediction: The pearl you form will long outlast the wound.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Olive trees can thrive in rugged environments, including rocky and nutrient-poor soils. Their root systems are wide, deep, and resilient. They are well-adapted to full sun, high temperatures, and low water availability. In comparing you to an olive tree, Leo, I’m not implying you will always have to be as hardy as they are. But in the coming weeks, you will be wise to be equally plucky and persevering. Here’s another fact about the olive tree you can and should emulate: Its fruit is valuable and in demand.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Scientists discovered that some caterpillars, while dissolving inside their cocoons, retain memories of their caterpillar lives even after becoming butterflies. In my view, that’s equivalent to us humans remembering details of our previous incarnations: having an all-new body but being able to draw on what our past body learned. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, you will be able to draw on this amazing capacity in the coming weeks. The person you used to be will have key revelations and inspirations for the future you.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): According to Celtic mythology, Cerridwen is the goddess of inspiration. In her cauldron, she brews magical elixirs that bestow the powers of wisdom, creativity, and transformation. The humans most likely to earn her blessings are those who are patient and willing to be changed. Of all the signs in the zodiac, you Scorpios are now at the top of the eligibility list for gifts like these. And the next three weeks will be the most favorable time for you to ask for and receive such blessings. Here’s a clue that will help you get all you deserve: Believe in magic.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In ancient Chinese philosophy, ziran means naturalness, spontaneity. It might refer to the way a mountain is purely a mountain, and a wave is a wave without trying to be a wave. I think you Sagittarians are due for an extended engagement with this wild ease and elegant freedom. After weeks of inner labor, your soul wants to breathe in ziran. Your assignment is to let yourself be as natural and unconstrained as you dare — not correct or careful or “optimized.” So I advise you to head in the direction of what’s simple and real and good. Emphasize smoothness over effort. Choose your rhythm, not theirs. You aren’t required to prove your healing. You just have to live it.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “Serendipity” is an English term that refers
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):
The Basenji is a dog breed that doesn’t bark. Instead, it produces an eerie, melodic yodel called a baroo. This oddity isn’t a flaw or drawback; it’s an interesting uniqueness. In the coming weeks, Virgo, I invite you to express your personal versions of the baroo — your idiosyncratic offerings and singular gifts. Playfully resist the pressure to be more conventional or “on brand.” Be faithful to what yearns to come out of you, which may be raw, radiant, and a little weird. Let your authenticity be exactly what it is: a beacon, not a liability.
to beautiful accidents, fortunate interruptions, unexpected opportunities, and surprisingly wonderful discoveries (The French equivalent is sérendipité; Italian: serendipità; Japanese: serendipiti.) The word didn’t exist until 1754, when author Horace Walpole coined it. Lovely outbreaks of good luck and uncanny blessings had been happening from time immemorial, of course, even though there wasn’t this precise word for them. Here’s a key point: They are more likely to occur if you believe they’re possible and make yourself alert for their arrival. That’s good advice for you right now.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The placenta is the only organ that the human body creates from scratch and then discards. Let’s pause for a moment to register how remarkable this is: to grow a temporary life-support system and then jettison it once its purpose is fulfilled. Inspired by this miracle, I speculate that you may soon undertake a metaphorical version of it. A situation or experience that has nurtured you is reaching the end of its mission. Though it has served you well, the wise move might be to outgrow it and move on to a new phase of your evolution. At the very least, it’s time to embark on a search for new forms of nourishment.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In Balinese gamelan music, there’s a technique called kotekan. Two instrumentalists play distinct musical parts that together create a seamless, intricately melodic and rhythmic texture. Let’s make this your metaphor to live by in the coming weeks, Pisces. In my astrological opinion, you are not meant to work solo. Your greatest success and most fun will come by generating harmony through collaborative improvisation and shared timing. A small warning: Someone else’s input may at first feel like interference, but it’s actually the missing part of the song. Let yourself blend, bounce, echo, and respond. Genius will be born in the spaces between.
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FILM By Kailynn Johnson
Memphis to the Mountain
e docuseries follows Memphis Rox climbers on a journey to Mount Kenya.
When Memphis Rox
Climbing and Community Center rst opened its doors in South Memphis, co-founder Chris Dean said they worked hard to dispel the myth that rock climbing “is a white people thing.”
e gym’s presence and popularity in a historic Black community turns this misconception on its head — and so does the Andscape documentary Memphis to the Mountain
“ e culture of rock climbing ts Black culture,” Dean said in the lm. “ e love, the care, the motivation, the conversation — it’s perfect for a Black community.”
South Memphis has found itself in a continuous news cycle both locally and nationally as the home to xAI’s data center. ose who call the neighborhood home have historically been marginalized, disadvantaged, and overlooked. e documentary highlights these systemic inequities — further characterized by the subjects of the lm. But its beauty lies in the fact that the subjects are not victims of their stories, but people living their dreams despite these circumstances.
Filmmaker and executive producer Tom Shadyac (also co-founder of Memphis Rox) and director Zachary Barr’s project follows a group of climbers from the gym as they train to conquer Mount Kenya. Before going to Africa, the group prepares in Colorado and Nevada alongside renowned climbers Phil Henderson and Alex Honnold, respectively.
e docuseries’ nal episode — the culmination of the climbers’ training — was screened at Crosstown eater on ursday, September 4th. Prior to the screening, Shadyac noted that the series’ rst episode (which can now be viewed on Hulu and Disney+) featured a title card that read: “One year a er lming this documentary, Jarmond Johnson, one of the people you are about to meet, was tragically shot and killed in South Memphis. is story is dedicated to Jarmond, and to all those who loved him and continue to do their best to embody his sel ess, positive spirit.”
Johnson was killed in June 2025 a er a ght at the gym. At the screening, Shadyac recognized those who loved and knew Johnson, including his grandmother, who he said put the spark in her grandson.
e love and support from Johnson’s community ampli ed the viewing experience as the crowd erupted during his on-screen appearances. It was a
sentimental viewing experience as a tribute to Johnson’s life.
Watching the nal episode was bittersweet. e cheers as each climber made it to the top of Mount Kenya were the applause South Memphis needed, and a beautiful metaphor for a community that won’t succumb to its circumstances. However, in a documentary that celebrated Black youth, culture, and dreams, it was a bit sad to realize how much character and life Johnson breathed into his community and those around him — and how much more he had to give.
But the lm does a beautiful job of making sure that Johnson’s story was one of legacy, compassion, and tenacity.
During the three-part docuseries, we’re introduced to Johnson, Michael Lee, Brittany Luckett, DJ Johnson, Isaiah Henderson, Pei Lin, JoJo Brown, and Quinton Onidas.
We rst meet Lee, a 19-year old going through a “rough time out in the streets”
with no place to live. Lee found his way to Memphis Rox a er being let go of his job at an auto parts store and seeing a food truck parked outside the gym. He noticed an instant shi in the culture and vibe as he began interacting with people at the gym.
e nonpro t space runs on a pay-what-you-can model and has options for donations for those who cannot pay. We learn that the gym is not solely a recreational place, but a home for many of the climbers in the documentary and neighborhood, with Dean even opening the community garden for Lee to camp in until he can nd a place to stay. e documentary not only follows the journey of training for Mount Kenya, but also explores the characters’ depths through their own personal stories. eir candidness and authenticity make it easy to be invested in them.
As someone who loves documentaries, I’ve seen a lot of people tell other people’s stories. I’ve seen a lot of people tell their own stories. What this documentary does so well is having young people tell stories — hard stories. And these storytellers are well-positioned to illustrate an enlightening narrative.
Moreover, it shows that minority experiences are not monolithic, even if there are similarities in struggle. is lm is not only a win for the climbers, but the neighborhood of South Memphis. It’s representative of the ght and determination ingrained in the neighborhood — demonstrated by those born and bred in that environment.
Memphis to the Mountain is now streaming on Hulu and Disney +.
A group of young Memphians from Memphis Rox attempts to ascend Mount Kenya, the second tallest peak in Africa, in this new docuseries.
Our critic picks the best films in theaters.
The Conjuring: Last Rites
The paranormal exploits of Ed and Lorraine Warren continue in this ninth installment of the $2 billion horror franchise. In this installment, Lorraine (Vera Farmiga) and Ed (Patrick Wilson) are faced with a specter from their past. Can they finally defeat the only demon which evaded their exorcism?
Hamilton
For the 10th anniversary of its debut, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s epoch-defining musical is finally hitting the big screen. Originally shown on Disney+ during the pandemic, this filmed version features the original cast in one of its final performances of 2016 at the Richard
Rodgers Theatre on Broadway. Miranda stars as Alexander Hamilton, one of the most enigmatic of the Founding Fathers, George Washington’s righthand man, and the brains behind the Treasury, who was killed in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr. Don’t throw away your shot to see it on the big screen with an audience.
Splitsville
Modern love can be complicated. Carey (Kyle Marvin) and Julie (Dakota Johnson) are getting a divorce. Their best friends Paul (Michael Angelo Covino, who also writes and directs the film) and Ashley (Adria Arjona) are in an open relationship. But their commitment to openness is challenged when Carey and Ashley hook up. Sexy high jinks ensue.
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THE
LAST WORD
By Alice Faye Duncan
B.B. King Turns 100
Celebrate the life and legacy of blues legend Riley B. King.
is is the abridged history of B.B. King. He passed away in 2015. If he had lived, the blues musician would be turning 100 years old on September 16th, 2025.
Born in a cropper shack near Itta Bena, Mississippi, his parents, Nora and Albert, named him Riley B. King. Before he sang the blues, Riley lived it. His parents separated when he was very young. en at the age of 9, his mother died. On her deathbed, Mama Nora hugged Riley tightly and said, “When you do good and treat folks right, good things will come to you.” Riley saved those words in the pocket of his soul and moved to his grandmother’s home in the hills of Kilmichael, Mississippi.
At the Elkhorn school near Kilmichael, students laughed at Riley because he stuttered badly. His teacher, Professor Luther Henson, would remind him that despite his condition, he was born with a purpose. Professor Henson also taught Riley and his classmates that a Black child in Jim Crow America did not have the luxury to be mediocre. He told his students, “You must be exceptional.” ese words shaped young Riley into a good student, a popular church singer, and a successful tractor driver. Whatever he attempted, Riley B. King did so in a spirit of excellence.
Reverend Archie Fair, a singing preacher at Austin Chapel (COGIC), inspired Riley to play guitar. e preacher’s weeping strings soothed Riley’s grief when he sat in church remembering Mama Nora on Sundays. During the week, Riley received joy listening to blues records playing on his Aunt Mima’s winding Victrola. Standing in the center of her cabin, as Blind Lemon Je erson’s guitar cried, WAAH-WAAH-WAAH, Riley would clap his sorrow away. And whenever Riley dared to sing gospel or blues, his stutter vanished. His voice was golden.
As a teenager, Riley purchased his rst guitar for $15. Lessons were impossible on his sharecropper wages, so he ordered a guitar book from the Sears, Roebuck and Co. catalog. His ambition was to sound like his cousin, Bukka White, a Memphis bluesman who played a silver resonator with a metal slide. Few people know this, but B.B. King’s piercing electric sound evolved from his tireless attempts to play like Bukka.
By 1940, Riley’s grandmother, Elnora Farr died. He moved from pillar to post, never content until he settled in the Delta town of Indianola, Mississippi. Come Saturday nights on the corner of Church and Second Street, he would play his blues for dancing men and women, who had labored all week in the cotton fields. Captivated by Riley’s golden voice and his good-time music, the dancers filled his guitar case with coins, making him feel rich. There in Downtown Indianola under a glimmering moon, Riley would make his guitar giggle as he remembered his mother’s words. When you do good and treat folks right, good things will come to you.
Through shattering trials and astounding triumphs, Riley B. King the tractor driver transformed into B.B. King, the Blues King, philanthropist, and international star. He won 15 Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Blues and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush.
This year marks B.B. King’s centennial. Celebrate his light. Tell your children his legacy. Sit with them and listen to Live at the Regal from 1964. If blues music is to thrive for generations to come, young people must learn about B.B. King. During their formative years, children must have an early encounter with the music of Muddy Waters, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Furry Lewis, Koko Taylor, John Lee Hooker, and a host of other Black geniuses whose blues shaped America. A child’s music education should begin in the home. B.B. King turns 100! Let the good times roll. Alice Faye Duncan is a Memphis educator who writes for children. Learn about her books at alicefayeduncan.com.
Duncan will celebrate B.B. King’s centennial at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music on Saturday, September 13th, at 2 p.m., where she will read her new book, Blues Boy — e B.B. King Story
