photo courtesy Frank Bruno
I’ve written before about Trent Wood, the popular host of various children’s shows that aired on Memphis television. And in our June issue, on newsstands right now, I tell about George Bruno, owner of Bruno’s By-Ryt, an architecturally stunning store that opened on Park Avenue in the 1950s, and still stands today, converted into the shops that compose the Park Cosmorama.
Frank Bruno, the nephew of George, sent me this intriguing photo, showing both gentlemen surrounded by a bunch of kids.
I don’t know what this event could be, or even where the photo was taken. Trent is holding a microphone, so obviously he is “on the air” — and the kids are just as obviously aware of the photographer. What puzzles me is the background. Both men seem to be standing in front of what looks like a very small van, with the slogan for Wonder Bread painted along the roof: “Helps Build Strong Bodies 12 Ways.” On the roof of the van, or counter, or whatever it is, you can see a boxed Bazooka toy manufactured by the Remco Company, along with some other objects (probably toys, too).
Bruno’s was a grocery, not a toy store. But it’s entirely possible this was some kind of grand-opening event, and the first lucky customers (and their kids) brought home lovely gifts.
At any rate, I like the photo. It shows the engaging personality of both George and Trent, and if anybody recognizes any of the kids in the photo, just let me know.
Thanks for sharing the photo, Frank.
