There’s Nothing Trivial About the Success of Trivia “Knight”

Bishop Byrne Middle and High School launched what is sure to become an annual tradition with a Trivia “Knight” fundraiser, so named after the Red Knights of Bishop Byrne, on Jan. 14^th, exceeding all expectations for a successful event.  Almost 300 people filled the gym at St. Louis Elementary School in East Memphis to help raise funds for the academic program of Bishop Byrne.  Many of the attendees were BBHS alumni from as far back as the 1960s when Bishop Byrne first opened in Whitehaven.  Over the more than four decades since those first students graduated, there have been some changes in the school, which currently serves approximately 200 students, both Catholic sand non-Catholics, from across the metro area, including many from North Mississippi.  But it was clear last Saturday night that one thing that has not changed is the school spirit and dedication that alums still feel for their school and its mission. 

Brother Ignatius Brown, local Trivia guru and a favorite at Trivia events around the region, served as “quizmaster” and MC for the event and was joined onstage by BBHS 1981 gradate and WMC-TV meterologist, Ron Childers, and former coach turned school administrator and new Bishop Byrne principal, Coach Clyde Israel.  “We had lots of Bishop Byrne alums there, but we also had people from other schools and parishes, and a number of folks from the community who know how much fun these events can be”, said Bishop Byrne’s Director of Advancement, Carol Carlson, adding  “That’s what impressed me so much, was that so many people from so many communities came together in support of Bishop Byrne. “

Carlson reports that revenue from the event was nearly double the early predictions of the planning committee, thanks in part to generous donations made during the evening and the support of event sponsors, Paul Boyd, Shelby County Probate Clerk and Class of ’99 alumni, and to their prize sponsor, Majestic Liquor and Wine.  Prizes were awarded for  Best Table Decorations and for 1^st and 2^nd place winners, with a special prize for Last Place as well.  Plans to repeat the event next year are already in the works.