Oxford American magazine held its annual gala and celebrated its 25th anniversary at Books, Bourbon and Boogie on Nov. 2 with Grammy winner Lucinda Williams in concert. The fundraiser took place at the Center for Humanities and Arts (CHARTS) at Pulaski Tech in North Little Rock.
Before the show, guests were welcomed by the magazine's editor, Eliza Borne, and its executive director Ryan Harris. Borne noted the magazine, founded in Oxford, Miss., in 1992, is still guided by the same mission: "That the South, a region that is home to most of the vital art, music and literature in the world, deserves a great magazine."
The annual music issues began 20 years ago, Borne said. "Nobody has appeared on more of our CDs than Lucinda Williams -- that's four times."
The show was sold out with a standing-room-only crowd. Between songs Williams would talk a little bit about the songs and noted she appreciated playing for an audience who recognized the people and places she referred to.
Before the concert there was a reception featuring Southern foods, bourbon and a silent auction -- which included Southern and Oxford American theme items.
High Profile on 11/12/2017