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Florence, AL, Honors Sam Phillips

The town of Florence, Alabama, is honoring its native son, the late legendary music producer Sam Phillips, with a multi-day Sam Phillips Music Celebration, running through Saturday.

Phillips, who put Elvis on the map, was born in Florence, on January 5, 1923. The event, now in its third year, examines the area’s influence on his work.

Wednesday kicked off the Sam Phillips Music Celebration with a birthday party and a screening of the Sam Phillips A&E biography. There was also a panel, which included author Peter Guralnick and others.

The event continues through Saturday with several concerts, including a sold-out show on Saturday featuring headliner Jason D. Williams.

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C’mon Memphis: Say It Loud, You’re Gay and You’re Proud

Come out, come out, wherever you are! Out of the closet, that is. Thursday, October 11th is National Coming Out Day, and gay rights groups and community centers around the country are celebrating with film screenings, music festivals, and rallies.

The Memphis Gay and Lesbian Community Center is hosting a three-day celebration beginning tonight with a screening of Tell: Coming Out in the Military. On Friday, the center will host an art show with works by Debbie Crawford and music by Kim Richardson and Tracy Rice.

The celebration culminates on Saturday at Crossroads with OUToberfest Music Festival featuring Valerie June, Murlpervis, Madelyn Hatter, Cowboi Mindy, Skinny White Chick, Amy Steinberg, and Chris Pureka.

For more info, go here.

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Have a Blast

Everyone’s heard of celebrating red, white, and blue on July 4th, but red, white, and blues? Only in Memphis.

One of this year’s major Independence Day celebrations, the Red, White, and Blues Star Spangled Celebration merges two events: the WMC Star Spangled Celebration and the Red, White, and Blues Celebration.

With the help of sponsors Entercom Radio Memphis and the Beale Street Merchants Association, the event will be the largest Fourth of July celebration and fireworks display in the Mid-South.

“Where else can you go and see an American Idol finalist, Skillet, and the Average White Band all in one show?” says Baker Yates, promotions director for WMFS 93X and Country Legends WMC 79. That AI finalist is Kimberley Locke, and as an added bonus, she’ll be performing the National Anthem.

In addition to the music and fireworks, there will be a Harley-Davidson ride, featuring the Elvis Presley 30th Anniversary Signature Series bike, as well as kids’ activities, such as a pony ride, games, and a moon bounce.

Everyone is welcome to bring lawn chairs and picnic baskets, but plenty of food will also be available on site.

“It’s a fun, family-oriented event, and there’s something for everyone,” Yates says. “It’s our official Independence Day celebration for the city. This is the party to go to.”

Red, White, and Blues Star Spangled Celebration, Tom Lee Park, Saturday, June 30th. event begins at 2 p.m. and fireworks at 9:45 p.m. free. 729-3269.