For three generations, the Rices have handled divorce and family law matters in Memphis and across Tennessee. Their co-authored book, “The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice,” published by the American Bar Association, is recognized across the country as the national standard. After rigorous examination, contested case reviews, and recommendations from judges and fellow attorneys, both of the Rices are Board Certified in Family Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
The Rices bring over 75 years of experience combined with up-to-date technology, including 128 bit encryption of client information and communication. Rice Law handles your family law matter with depth of experience including a team of nationally recognized attorneys and Advanced Certified Paralegals. Rice Law’s Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 listed mediators provide valuable insight into resolving your matter quickly.
Whether you find yourself dealing with divorce, mediation, custody, child support, domestic violence or any other matter involving family law,
For more information on divorce, visit aboutdivorce.com or scan below.
AMI AUSTIN - BABCOCK GIFTS - BLU D’OR INTERIORS - CHICO’S
COTTON TAILS - DINSTUHL’S - EAST MEMPHIS ATHLETIC CLUB
FLEET FEET SPORTS - FROST BAKE SHOP - HEATHER - HOT YOGA PLUS
J. MCLAUGHLIN - JAMES DAVIS - J. JILL - JOSEPH - JOSEPH MEN
KING FURS AND FINE JEWELRY - KITTIE KYLE - LIBRO - LORI JAMES
NICOLE BARRÉ BRIDAL BOUTIQUE - NOVEL - ORVIS
PANERA BREAD - PAVO SALON - PIGTAILS AND CREWCUTS
RESTAURANT IRIS - SACHI - SISSY’S LOG CABIN
STOVALL COLLECTION - VIGNETTES INTERIORS - ZÜPMED
Photography by Ryan E. Johnson
The Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & the Mid-South held their 12th Annual Get Down & Derby Gala at the Great Hall in Germantown on Derby Day, May 6. The celebration included hors d'oeuvres sponsored by various restaurants, Derby-themed drinks, dancing, music, and live stream viewing of the Kentucky Derby on large screens. A hat parade, wine pull, and silent and live auctions were also enjoyed by all. Proceeds from this fundraiser event go toward funding new and current programs, created to serve individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. dsamemphis.org
JULY/AUGUST
2023
July/August 2023
Volume IX • Number 4
PUBLISHER
Jim Walker jim@4memphis.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sandi Butler Hughes sandi@4memphis.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Lesley Harris Colvett lesley@4memphis.com
ART DIRECTOR
McKendree Walker mckendree@4memphis.com
ARTS CONTRIBUTOR
Ken Hall
ADVERTISING
Mark O. Ramirez mark@4memphis.com
Cathy Farrell cathy@4memphis.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Cyrena Wages
WEBMASTER
Eddie Bates webmaster@4memphis.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mark O. Ramirez
McKendree Walker
CONTACT
6465 Quail Hollow Memphis, TN 38120 4memphis.com
Photography by Gigi Marie
DeNeuville Learning Center for Women celebrated 25 years of empowering women and families through education with an elegant gala on April 27 at The Club at TPC Southwind. The theme “Around the World” honored the 5,000-plus students who were born in 56 countries represented by DLC students. Guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, a silent auction, and addresses from several Memphis leaders. The featured guest speaker was John Carroll with City Leadership. Angela Trillo, Corporate Employee Banking and Investment Relationship Manager Officer at Bank of America and the President of the Mid-South Latino Chamber of Commerce, was this year’s honorary chair. dlcmemphis.org
1. Mackenzie Grannan, Abby Wilbanks, Shannon Briggs, Cecilia Fay & Sophie Townsend
2. Alexandra & Sam Shansky 3. Arnetria Bowman, Camalon Moore, Demond Moore, Dana Armstrong 4. Marcus Cox & Mary Schmitz 5. DLC Board 6. Delaine Smith & Amy Shelton Little
7. Lauren Robinson, Jenay Boggs, Alex Boggs, Eddie Robinson, Ashley Robilio & Melanee Fleenor 8. Tyra Forcha & Tharon Woods
Guests enjoyed a special evening of raising money and celebrating recent breakthrough advances in type 1 diabetes research at the JDRF Promise Gala, held April 29 at The Columns in downtown Memphis. The elegant evening featured dinner, dancing, and the always successful Fund A Cure campaign! JDRF is a leading international nonprofit fighting to cure type 1 diabetes (T1D) while also helping those with T1D live healthy lives today. jdrf.org
Photography by Bryant Cummings
aPriL 29, 2023
Bride’s Parents names: Pam & Tommy Blanford
Groom’s Parents names: Leigh & Bob Alvarez
Location: The Georgian, Athens, GA
PhotoGraPher: Garter + Whiskey
caterer: South Kitchen
WeddinG GoWn: Pronovias
hair and make UP: Rachel Rozanski
FLorist: Debbie Lovelady
WeddinG cordinator: April McLean
Band: Sound Insight Productions; Side Hustle Dance Band
dJ: Kris Plummer
the coUPLe resides in: Atlanta, GA
Photography by Lesley Harris Colvett
The St. Louis Catholic Church Men’s Club Hole-In-One Festival featured golf, food and fun on the grounds of St. Louis in east Memphis. In its 65th year, the Hole-In-One has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for St. Louis School, youth programs at St. Louis Church, and various children’s charities throughout Memphis! Annually, the much-anticipated, week-long event in June offers many fun activities - including children’s carnival rides, cornhole tournaments, the chance to win $1 million at the Million Dollar Shootout, and the chance to win $25,000 towards the purchase of a vehicle from City Auto. We can’t wait for next year’s Hole-In-One! www.stlouismensclub.com/2023
Photography by Ken Hall
The Craft Food & Wine Festival was held June 25, at The Columns with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Church Health. Guests enjoyed excellent wines and locally-sourced foods plus live music and door prizes. The Festival was organized by Cristina McCarter, owner of Feast & Graze, and she has spent years building relationships as she has built her business. It is a very compatible partnership with Church Health since the nonprofit has focused on foods for several years, building a teaching kitchen to help patients connect better nutrition with better health. It was a scrumptious way to spend a Sunday afternoon and support Church Health! churchhealth.org
1. Nate Terrell, Diego Dries, Jacob & Harris Dries 2. Dave & Amanda Krog 3. Alisha Echols & Chanta McCollins 4. Jesse Boyd & Brandi Flaig
5. Dr. Scott Morris, Brinkley Erb & Mary Morris 6. Crystal Cole & Sheila Cole 7. Chef Nate Henssler & Zori Holman 8. Kimberly Boland & Kurt Kaiser
We are fortunate to have so many Farmers Markets sprinkled throughout the area, from downtown to Collierville, allowing us to enjoy homegrown produce right at our fingertips. The yumminess of freshly grown fruits and vegetables, without the time and effort of maintaining your own garden, is quite an edible luxury. There is just something about using local, fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables that elevate your summer dishes to a whole other level.
Health experts say eating fruits and vegetables from local farmers markets provides more nutrition because the produce at a local farmers market has spent more time in its natural state (on a vine or in the ground) instead of being shipped in a truck, and the fruits and vegetables are picked at the peak of their growing season.
Listed below are Farmers Markets around town and recipes to enjoy for your taste buds to come to life and enjoy all that summer has to offer! Hours listed may vary due to holidays.
Memphis Farmers Market
S. Front St. & W GE Patterson Ave.
Open Saturday, 8am-1pm
Bartlett Station Farmers Market
2999 Stage Rd.
Open Saturday, 8am-12pm
Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market
1000 S. Cooper St.
Open Saturday, 8am-1pm
South Memphis Farmers Market
1400 Mississippi Blvd.
Open Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm
Chelsea Avenue Farmers Market
Intersection of Chelsea Ave. and Springdale St.
Open Saturday, 8am-12pm
Farm Park Farmers Market
7725 Poplar Pike Rd.
Open Thursday, 4pm-7pm
Whitehaven Farmers Market
1300 Wesley Dr.
Open Monday, 10am-5pm
Millington Farmers Market
5152 Easley St.
Open the third Saturday of the month, 8am-1pm
Collierville Farmers Market
454 W Poplar Ave.
Open Thursday, 8am-12pm
Arlington Farmers Market
12090 Forrest St.
Open every first & third Saturday, 8am-12pm
Agricenter Farmers Market
7777 Walnut Grove Rd.
Open Monday-Thursday, 8am-5pm; Saturday, 7am-5pm
Recipes courtesy of Le Bonheur Club, Inc.
Key Ingredients cookbook
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups fruit of choice, such as sliced strawberries, peaches, blueberries, blackberries or cherries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 tablespoons butter
Cinnamon sugar (optional)
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan. Add fruit and 2 tablespoons sugar and cook over low heat until fruit is tender. If mixture is too dry, add 1 tablespoon water. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, milk and 1 cup sugar until fairly smooth, but do not overbeat. Stir in cinnamon. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in an 8x11 inch glass baking dish. Pour flour mixture into dish. Spoon fruit mixture on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar 5 minutes before done baking. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
1 frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 (4 ounce) packaged crumble feta cheese
¼ cup Vidalia or other sweet onion, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
4 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon virgin olive oil
Roll puff pastry into a square on a lightly floured surface. Transfer to an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool.
When cool, return sheet to baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheeses, onions and garlic. Top with basil, thyme and chives. Arrange tomato slices in a single layer on top and drizzle with oil. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until cheese melts. Cut into squares with 1 tomato slice in each square.
Yield: about 2 dozen
The inaugural Night Train event was held April 29, and everybody got on board for the fun ride! Fashioned to replace Staxtacular, this new party is Soulsville Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. The evening was filled with live music, fantastic cuisine and cocktails, dancing, DJs, and more, as guests mingled throughout the Stax facility including the famed Studio A and Isaac Hayes' gold-trimmed Cadillac exhibit. soulsvillefoundation.org
Photography by Isaac Singleton
Photography
by Frank Chin
Memphis Italian Fest, presented by Holy Rosary Parish, is one of the most anticipated, family-friendly events held annually in Memphis, and this year was as big as ever! Held June 1-3 at Marquette Park in East Memphis, Italian Fest festively celebrated Italian-American heritage with several nights of amazing, authentic Italian food, fabulous live music, a bocce ball tournament, and shopping for everyone at arts & crafts vendor booths! What a way to kick off summer 2023 and benefit the children of Holy Rosary School! memphisitalianfestival.org
01- 4 6 0 -3092
Photography by Herman Williams
KUDZUKIAN and its nonprofit arm, KUDZUKIAN Media Group, launched season 5 of “The Journey” at their studios in the Agricenter. The series features some of the most successful Black men - of all walks - in Memphis. The show highlights their stories and paths to the top of their respective industries with the aim of reaching young Black men and boys where they are. “If they can see it, they can be it.” “The Journey” is available on all streaming platforms and on YouTube.
BY MICHAEL OHER
Oher’s life has had a lot of unexpected highs: a college degree; four beautiful, healthy children and a happy marriage; drafted in the first round; a Super Bowl victory; and a second chance to play in the “big game.” He’s also run up against quite a few walls: poverty, hunger, homelessness, struggles in school, bullying, job loss, brain injury, anxiety, and depression. What he knows now is that your wall can be your opportunity. In When Your Back’s Against the Wall, he offers encouragement and shows readers how to get back up— again, and again, and again.
Novel will host a book signing for When Your Back's Against the Wall on Saturday, August 12 at 2PM.
BY MEMPHIS WRITERS K.D. BARNES, RIKKI BOYCE, MICHAEL CHEWNING, WILL HAGAN, RAE HARDING, DANIEL REECE, JUSTIN SIEBERT, AND IMOGEAN WEBB
The law of motion states when two bodies are free to move, they tend to accelerate toward each other. When those encounters occur, the results can be disastrous, wondrous, and revealing. These stories, written by a collaborative of Memphis writers, are a few such encounters set in the Memphis and Mid-South area.
Novel will host an author panel with the authors of Malfunction Junction Vol. 2 on Saturday, July 8 at 2PM.
Dreamgirls meets Waiting to Exhale by way of Destiny’s Child with a nostalgic 90s twist! As glittering as their name, The Diamonds were on the brink of 1990s pop music stardom— until betrayal tore them apart. Now these four very different women are getting a second shot at success. But will reuniting mend their rift—or will lasting secrets, unspoken betrayals, new temptations, and the hard-knocks of today’s music industry destroy them, and their dreams, for good?
Novel will host the Memphis writer Phyllis R. Dixon for the Intermission launch party on Tuesday, July 28 at 6PM.
In the spring of 2020, Lara’s three daughters return to the family's orchard in Northern Michigan. While picking cherries, they beg their mother to tell them the story of Peter Duke, a famous actor with whom she shared both a stage and a romance years before at a theater company called Tom Lake. As Lara recalls the past, her daughters examine their own lives and relationship with their mother, and are forced to reconsider the world and everything they thought they knew.
Novel will host Ann Patchett and fellow Nashville author Lindsay Lynch (Do Tell) for a discussion and signing on Friday, August 18 at 6PM.
In a culture that encourages and applauds the search for perfection in all its exterior manifestations, Surprised by Imperfection is a collection of essays that reminds the reader of the more exquisite beauty in the dappled and imperfect aspects of the vast world, the sanctity of the ordinary in all its seasons, and the grand sense of wonder and awe.
In each essay, Memphis native Shari Brand Ray considers the sacredness of the small moments in life. With humor and an inordinate love for the everyday, Ray connects readers to the glories of the natural world through a return to close observation. In the spring she searches for meaning in watching two dogs run in the warm sunshine along the backs of the spring-swollen Mississippi River, and in autumn she experiences the terrified beauty of leaving her seven-year-old daughter in a new school in a country where they did not yet speak the language. And in the winter Ray writes of wounding, the moments following a life-threatening head-on collision on a snowy night in Memphis as she waits for the ambulance and contemplates her own unknown future.
Photography by Frank Chin
Literatini is a FUNdraising event to support Literacy Mid-South, and it was bigger and better than ever before as the party expanded into the parking lot for 2023! Scrumptious bites from Libro at Laurelwood, Chef Tanocha with Big Momma and Granny’s Catering, Crumpy’s Wings & More, and Chef David Johnson with Southern Belle Catering complemented the martini competition. The Alchemist martini from The Pear Martini was selected at the People’s Choice Award, and Libro’s martini was chosen for the Judge’s Choice Award. Live music by Gerald Richardson and DJ mixes by DJ Mary “The K” rounded out the party atmosphere. It was a fun-filled evening for the mission of 100% literacy in Memphis and the Mid-South! literacymidsouth.org
The Memphis Botanic Garden celebrated their 70th anniversary with a 70s themed Groovy Garden Party. The fun evening featured lots of 70s-themed music and cocktails - remember a Harvey Wallbanger? Guests even got to make a pet rock to take home! Plenty of Flower Power was had to celebrate this 70th anniversary - congratulations, MBG!
Photography by Frank Chin
Goldenrod (Solidago species) is, in this horticulturist’s opinion, among the most underrated plants for a home landscape. Goldenrod is beautiful, hardy, and great for pollinators, but it has a bad rap. All too often this native wildflower is erroneously blamed for causing allergies or is considered nothing more than a weed of roadsides and abandoned fields. Thankfully, we can dispel the first myth nearly outright. Hay fever is more often than not caused by the tiny windborne pollen of ragweed (Ambrosia species) and similar species; the pollen grains of goldenrod and other insectpollinated plants are far less likely to cause widespread sneezing just by their nature (large, sticky, and heavy). The second claim, that goldenrod is weedy, does have truth to it. The Canada goldenrod complex (Solidago altissima, S. canadensis, and S. gigantea) is the gang of big tall bullies that can and will overwhelm a space. However, most species are not nearly as aggressive, and over recent years more and more improved varieties have been introduced for home garden use. From short to tall, for sun or shade, and for dry to moist soil, there are numerous varieties available today that not only behave well but also stand out.
Goldenrod is a late-season bloomer, usually late summer to fall, but some varieties begin flowering in midsummer or last until frost. Their golden yellow flowers shine at the end of the summer season when many other plants start to peter out. Pair them with ironweed (Vernonia species) or purple asters for a real show-stopper. Robin Wall Kimmerer in Braiding Sweetgrass informs us that, “As it turns out… goldenrod and asters appear very similarly to bee eyes and human eyes. We both think they’re beautiful. Their striking contrast when they grow together makes them the most attractive target in the whole meadow, a beacon for bees. Growing together, both receive more pollinator visits than they would if they were growing alone.”
Besides bees, goldenrod also attracts butterflies such as Monarchs, providing nutrition for their migration south. Better yet, the National
Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder lists a whopping 90 species of caterpillars that can eat the leaves of goldenrod in our area. That’s more than any other wildflower or grass, making goldenrod one of the most important wildflowers you can plant. Despite that, the plants are rarely bothered by pests or diseases. To sweeten the deal, most goldenrods have a penchant for poorer soils, meaning fertilizer isn’t just unnecessary, but may even result in undesired effects such as flopping or spreading more. Herbalists and dye-makers also utilize goldenrod for their crafts. For a unique addition to a sensory or herb garden, sweet goldenrod (Solidago odora) smells like licorice and can be brewed into a tea, according to the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center’s Plant Database.
Given goldenrod’s versatility and ability to light up an area in autumn while supporting pollinators, all without coddling, what’s stopping you from giving goldenrod a go? Memphis Botanic Garden will have several varieties available at our Fall Plant Sale in early October. Some recommended varieties:
• Blue-stem (or Wreath) goldenrod (Solidago caesia). Up to three feet tall and wide; primarily clump-forming, it does not spread aggressively but may form small colonies by rhizomes and seeds. Native to woodlands, it prefers part shade and tolerates full sun. Average to dry, well-drained soils. Blooms late summer to fall. Perfect for brightening up areas too shady for other wildflowers. Native to Shelby County.
• Fireworks goldenrod (Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’). Up to four feet tall and wide, a slowly expanding clump. Full sun to part shade. Average to wet, well-drained soils. Blooms late summer to fall, up to frost. Stunning 18” long panicles of flowers. Highest ranked in Chicago Botanic Garden trials. The species is native to Tennessee.
• Golden Fleece goldenrod (Solidago sphacelata ‘Golden Fleece’). Up to 18” tall and slowly spreads up to three feet wide. Full sun to part shade. Average to dry, well-drained soils. Blooms late summer to fall. Heart-shaped leaves form a semi-evergreen groundcover. Highly ranked in Chicago Botanic Garden trials. Species is native to Tennessee.
Regional One Health Foundation hosted the 11th annual ONE Night Gala on April 22 at the Renasant Convention Center, and this special night provided an opportunity to celebrate the life-saving work done every day at Regional One Health and raise money. More than 800 attendees enjoyed dinner and dancing to the sounds of three legendary R&B acts including The Jacksons, The Spinners and C + C Music Factory. Since its inception, ONE Night Gala sponsors and attendees have raised more than $5 million for Regional One Health, which benefits the work of the Foundation including the purchase of medical technology/equipment, advanced medical training for caregivers, and the creation of programs to combat various community health issues. regionalonehealth.org
1. Dr. Martin & Celine Croce 2. Joy & DeJuan Bowen 3. Tammy & Dr. Andy Kerwin 4. Merry & Johnny Moore 5. Ami Austin & Dr. Susan Murrmann 6. Dr. Reginald & Erica Coopwood 7. Dr. David & Julie Shibata 8. Carolyn & Marino Hardy
Photography by Whitney McNeil
"Vacation" is a 1982 song by The Go-Go’s and also a state of mind this time of year whether you are driving to the beach or just wishing you were. Meanwhile in Memphis there is still a good array of visual and performing arts happenings plus a few, fun day trips worth trying. Back for an encore after several years off is Glitch, the edgy, house gallery curated–stage managed-refereed by Adam Farmer. Betsy Brackin brings her Delta-themed art to the James Lee House. There is also the always joyful Kafe Kirk. And you can have a barbecued goat sandwich in Senatobia (the flavor is distinct and strong in case you were wondering)! It’s summer fun of all kinds! -Ken Hall
7/1
Introductions
art by Lisa Jennings and Anton Weiss Jay Etkin Gallery, on display until 8/30
Feast of Colors art by Carolyn Moss Memphis Botanic Garden, on display until 8/31
Tennessee Craft Southwest exhibit Gallery Ten Ninety One at WKNO Opening reception is July 9 from 2-4pm, on display until 8/28
Concerts in the Grove: Cyrena Wages GPAC Grove, 6-8pm
Becky McRae photography show Lois Ruleman Gallery at Church Health, on display until 8/28
Don’t Hydroplane TheatreWorks, through 7/23
Sally Smith: Adrenaline Rush Dixon Gallery & Gardens, on display until 10/1
Flamenco Memphis – Noche Flamenca The Green Room, Crosstown Arts, 7:30-9:30pm
Maxwell Blankenship art show The Medicine Factory, through 7/16
39th annual Lauderdale County Tomato Festival Ripley, TN
Kafe Kirk: The Gospel According To Jazz Crosstown Theater, 6-7:30pm
Kirk brings in special guests Keia Johnson and Kevin Whalum.
Second Nature art by Adam Farmer 10 year Glitch anniversary, 2180 Cowden, 5-9pm
The return of THE house gallery is a solo show by Adam. Expect the unexpected. Also cool art and live music.
Neshoba County Fair Philadelphia, MS, through 7/28
4Memphis Music Series: Summer of Love 3-10pm
ZZ Top Orpheum Theatre, 8pm
American Perspectives: Highlights from the American Folk Art Museum Dixon Gallery & Gardens, on display until 10/8
Memphis-Germantown Art League
Gallery Ten Ninety One at WKNO Opening reception is August 6, 2-4pm. On display until 8/31
Mohamed Fofana art show
The Medicine Factory, on display until 8/19
Karlous Miller Orpheum Theatre, 7pm
Modern Jazz masters: Jocelyn Gould
The Green Room, Crosstown Arts, 7:30-10pm
Some of the best in contemporary jazz guitar.
Drum Corps International championship
Live streaming prelims, Malco Paradiso, 5:30pm
Amazing marching musicians competing on Lucas Field in Indianapolis, which you can see from the comfy seats in the air conditioned theater.
Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival
Clarksdale, MS
The August Delta sun is a scorcher, so bring your church fan along with your lawn chair. Sit right down in front of the stages at this accessible, authentic festival in the cradle of the blues.
Black American Portraits
Brooks Museum, on display until 1/17
Sister Act Theatre Memphis, through 9/10
Mr. Holland’s Opus film screening GPAC Grove, 7pm
Beth Edwards art Theatre Memphis, through 9/10
Betsy Brackin art opening
James Lee House, 690 Adams, 3-5pm
Large scale acrylic scenes of the Delta and smaller pen drawings grace the ever-elegant historic home.
The Prom Playhouse on the Square, through 9/27
The Otha Turner GOAT Picnic
8647 Highway, 51 S., Coldwater, MS
An intimate blues festival held each year in memory of the late fife and drum master Otha Turner and yes, there is barbecued goat on the menu.
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Orpheum Theatre, 7pm
Whet Thursday Metal Museum, 374 Metal Museum Dr., 5-7pm
Photography by Eli Gold
On April 29, 4Memphis Music hosted the fifth event of its charity concert series benefitting For The Kingdom Memphis, a non-profit dedicated to supporting the needs of the 38128 community. Elvis gifted the 4Memphis Music house in East Memphis to Dr. Nic in the 70s, and guests enjoyed an intimate night of local music under the stars at the magnificent house. Guests experienced acoustic performances by Yella P, Bailey Bigger, Jack Oblivian and Joe Restivo Trio. Marcella Simien closed out the night with a full band performance. Stay tuned for announcements about the next 4Memphis Music event. ftkmemphis.org
Special thanks to: Buster’s Liquors & Wines, Laurelwood Shopping Center, Eden Spa & Laser, Thomas Halfacre Sound Production, White Door Events, Home Depot, Oak Hall, 5M Services. This event would not have been possible without your generosity!
Marcella Simien
Yella P
Joe Restivo Trio
Jack Oblivian
Mon - Fri 3-5pm
Sponsored by
For more information: FarrellProductionsMemphis@gmail.com
Earle visits with Pat Register, long time Memphis musician and saxophonist about his band, The Justus Brothers.
The best of backyard barbequers gathered on Beale Street to compete in the Patio Porkers contest. Formerly part of the Memphis in May's World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, the Patio Porkers competition was held May 20 in Handy Park, and this was a oneday extravaganza of bbq fun.
The competition was ribs-only and a sanctioned Kansas City Barbeque Society competition. Bringing the Patio Porkers up to Beale Street was a full-circle move for this inaugural competition. When the first Memphis in May barbeque contest was held in 1978, it was originally held on Beale. This year’s event was a joint collaboration between the Downtown Memphis Commission and the Beale Street Merchants Association.
The top prize went to Battle Brothers Que from Jackson, TN, and the second place winner was Weez's Groovin' BBQ. Both were presented with prize money and a beautifully designed, custom trophy from the Metal Museum. Beale Street restaurants were also invited to submit ribs for judging, and Alfred’s On Beale was chosen for the Rib King honor.
The competition is open to anyone who wants to barbeque in the Patio Porkers contest, so fire up your grill and practice your best rib recipes for next year!
A group of longtime WREG television pros recently gathered for a reunion party, and the stories were in abundance! Several of the guests traveled from across the US to attend, and had worked at WREG from the 70s through today. From news directors to camera operators, sales staff to on-air anchors and reporters, the bonds of working together as a team were still strong. A video slideshow was compiled with clips and images from days-gone-by, complete with bad hair styles and younger faces. The evening concluded with fond memories and vows to stay in touch.
LifeDoc Health hosted a Grand Opening Celebration for their new offices located at 6625 Lenox Park Drive. The offices will help LifeDoc Health fulfill their mission to build healthier communities by preventing diabetes and obesity through healthcare and research. Prevention is their secret to better healthcare. lifedochealth.org
Photos submitted by WREG
Photography by McKendree Walker
By Sandi Butler Hughes
You may know lifestyle guru, P. Allen Smith: he is an acclaimed designer, a 5th-generation horticulturist, best-selling author, and passionate conservationist. But did you also know that he is a welcoming host to visitors at his country estate, Moss Mountain Farm? Located 30 minutes from Little Rock in Roland, Arkansas, a visit is an experience in beauty, learning, and genteel Southern hospitality. For Memphians, it is an ideal getaway for gardening inspiration, a girl’s weekend, or as a stop en route to Northwest Arkansas.
Moss Mountain Farm is Allen’s country home, and he offers fall and spring tours to share his design styles, eco-friendly building practices, and gardening and preservation techniques. The threestory Greek Revival-style home is poised atop a bluff overlooking the Arkansas River. His authentic design approach pays homage to the history of the farm and the 600 acre estate. The day begins with refreshments under a tent as you check-in and soak in the beautiful landscape. The tour goes on, rain or shine, and you can also expect to walk about two miles, so dress accordingly and wear your walking shoes. Guests are divided into small groups and led on a guided tour of the gardens including Allen’s Terrace Garden, the Hidden Rose Garden, Hydrangea Allée, and his oneacre Vegetable Garden. The tour guides are often accomplished gardeners in their own right and are available to answer many of your
gardening questions. Next, you’re welcomed into Allen’s home, and again the tour guides point out interesting details about the home, the decor, and the sustainable features incorporated into the design. After working up an appetite, a scrumptious farm-to-table lunch is served in Grange Hall. Seasonal recipes from Allen’s book, Seasonal Recipes from the Garden, are served, including a slice of Allen’s famous buttermilk pecan pie with homemade whipped cream for dessert. Allen was at the estate the day we toured. He gave a delightful lunchtime talk and answered questions. He was as warm as he was welcoming. The afternoon concluded with a guided tour of Poultryville to meet the chickens and other animals. Allen has worked diligently to conserve America’s early poultry breeds, which led him to start the Heritage Poultry Conservancy.
The Fall Tour Season begins in September at Moss Mountain Farm. The summer splendor moves into cooler weather and beautiful mums, gourds, and pumpkins take the spotlight. During the spring, Daffodil Hill at Moss Mountain Farm boasts over a million - yes, a million - blooming daffodils. Whatever the season and whenever you visit, garden abundance and beautiful design are the allure of Moss Mountain Farm; inspiration is what you get to take home.
Tour information, an abundance of wonderful recipes, gardening tips, and much more is available at pallensmith.com.
Photography by Ken Hall
Memphis Fashion Week was held May 12-13 at Arrow Creative, and this year’s event was a very fashionable extravaganza. Events included a Fashion Night Out, The Look Shopping Event, and Emerging Designers Cocktail Party. So much creativity was on display from these talented Memphis designers! Memphis Fashion Week was created in 2012 by Arrow co-founder, Abby Phillips, and strives to cultivate and celebrate local and regional fashion through designers, photographers, models and boutiques. For more information about MFW and upcoming events and workshops at Arrow Creative, visit arrowcreative.org.
1. Tamzen Jenkins & Amari Kimble 2. Caitlin McGill, Abby Phillips, Kim Thomas & Yamile Iskeis 3. Catherine Keller & Tate Wilson
4. Jessica Nolan & Samantha Hatchett 5. Mary Ellen Kelly & Ken Hall 6. Sherry Askew & Brandy Murrell 7. Paige Jerit & Katie Fik
Momentum Nonprofit Partners introduced the nonprofit Catalyst Awards in 2019 to honor the exceptional work of small but mighty change-makers in Memphis. These dedicated organizations and front-line workers, though not widely recognized, have made a transformative impact in community.
The Catalyst Awards recognizes three outstanding local nonprofit professionals and nonprofit organizations, with one being crowned the coveted Nonprofit Professional/Organization of the Year. The Catalyst Awards are presented during the annual Mid-South Nonprofit Conference, hosting over 400 nonprofit professionals.
The 2023 Nonprofit Professional of the Year was awarded to Mike Mosby, also known as "Coach Mike." Holding multiple roles, including Arts Administrator with Memphis Music Initiative, Head Football Coach at Oakhaven High School, and Executive Director of Raising the BAR, Coach Mike is deeply connected to the neighborhoods he serves. Having grown up and “made a lot of mistakes” in the same zip codes he now supports, he passionately dedicates himself to the betterment of young black boys, inspiring them with his own transformative journey and motto, "Make Moves that Count." His mother, retired police Lieutenant Dr. Ella Mosby, is credited for being the biggest inspiration for what it means to love and serve the community. “I grew up seeing my mother be a role model and serve her community in so many different capacities. There was always a lot of food, a lot of giveaways, and a lot of love. I knew I was called to do the same work.” Joining Coach Mike as catalysts for change are finalists Katherine Lee of Beautiful Spirited Women and Kristi Baker Patterson of ALLMemphis.
Playback Memphis (PBM) was honored as the 2023 Nonprofit Organization of the Year. Led by Virginia Murphy since its establishment in 2008, PBM uses the art form of Playback Theatre to unlock healing, transformation, and joy in safe spaces where stories come to life. By employing professional artists and facilitators, Playback Memphis ensures that voices from diverse backgrounds are heard and shared. Their core program, Memphis Matters, provides a platform for Memphians from all walks of life, without financial or physical barriers, to experience powerful and truthful storytelling. Recognizing the historical and ongoing pain within the community, Playback Memphis creates unity, community, and courage through their impactful work. As Virginia Murphy reflects, "Memphis has been a very powerful place to root and grow our unique artform as a resource to build social healing and community well-being. In all we are, in all we do, we seek to be worthy of others' trust to provide a platform to speak their truth."
The Catalyst Awards also recognized the remarkable contributions of the two finalists, Literacy Mid-South and STARS (Students Tackling Autism-Related Syndromes), who are actively igniting change in Memphis.
The Mid-South Nonprofit Conference is especially thankful to the Catalyst Awards review team at the University of Memphis, comprised of students in the Civic Engagement and Volunteerism class, led by Professor Candace McRae Walsh: Jalynn Caldwell, Anna Grace Calvery, Markevia
Mayfield, Demetrius Smotherman, Tierra Starks, Deborah Swiney, Leroy Taylor and Justis Woodcox.
Brian Echols of Echols Catering and Entertainment, Kim Jameson of STARS (finalist), Sam O'Bryant of Literacy Mid-South (finalist), Alisha Echols of Echols Catering and Entertainment
Dress and shoes: Oak Hall
Earrings and Necklace: Eden Spa & Laser
Headscarf: Stylist's Own
Dress, shoes and purse: Oak Hall
Necklace: Eden Spa & Laser
Earrings: Sorelle Boutique
Dress, shoes and necklaces: Sorelle Boutique Jacket: Kittie Kyle
Skirt, top and earrings: Kittie Kyle Shoes: Oak Hall
Suit, blouse, earrings and purse: Kittie Kyle Shoes: Sorelle Boutique
Photography by Keith Renard/Skipworth Photography and Julie C. Eaves
Hip, hip, hooray! It was record-breaking Carnival Memphis for 2023! The week of events kicked off with the formal Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball at the Hilton Memphis Hotel and followed by daily events and celebrations throughout the city. A record $500,000 with matching funds was raised for this year's Carnival Children’s charities: For The Kingdom, Le Bonheur Seacrest Studio, and Streets Ministries. Kudos and congratulations to everyone who was a part of this Memphis tradition! carnivalmemphis.org
Photography by Julie C. Eaves
The 74th edition of the Germantown Charity Horse Show in Germantown was held June 6-10. The USEF Heritage Competition offers awesome equestrian competition and family fun in a beautiful setting while benefiting the charity, Kindred Place. It is a wonderful tradition and fun for horse enthusiasts!
The National Wardrobe Service has issued an alert for the following counties in West Tennessee…The Pandemic is over…please be advised to seek shelter for athletic clothes not being used in an athletic environment.
With this announcement it is my civil duty to help you find something else to wear. There is some good news to this development and that is..it's really too hot to wear those big ole athletic clothes and sports bras! Best of all, stores are putting their clothes on sale. Therefore you can find real clothes cheaper than athletic ones.
Winter, spring and summer things are all on sale right now in your favorite shops. Best of all, you can look like you used to and not like you are training for the Olympics. (Although that would be really cool!) “Transition” is the key word for this article. For the next couple of months we will be hot and hotter with regard to our season. Transition clothes are my favorites for they can be worn a long time in Memphis and our surrounding areas. Most of the sale items are transitional ones this time of year.
Here are 4 ideas to help and guide you during sale season:
• Analyze your closet and try to figure out what clothing you were lacking last summer and into the fall. Make some notes and set out to look for those items.
• Think about clothes that you wore the most and try to look for similar items to update your wardrobe.
• When you are shopping the sales, search for colors that you love that might go forward and those that can be worn all year long. Today's looks
are no longer specific colors. If you look at early fall styles for 2023, colors are quite vivid and all over the grid.
• Pay attention to your local and online stores and watch who has the best sales. Immediately after the July 4th holiday always seems to be a good time to pick up some great deals. Keep your eye on the pieces you want and chances are you will get them at a great price. Be careful not to be too cheap and lose out on a great find.
This time of year, I love to look for shirts, skirts and pants that can go forward. Separates always add to a wardrobe. Dresses are also great because they can be layered or take on a cropped jacket as the season warrants. Remember evening wear always seems to be made out of less fabric, therefore most spring and summer frocks can move right on into the holiday seasons. Keep in mind you can always add a sweater or scarf for warmth. Even linens seem to be becoming more transitional.
My last advice during this fun sale time is to look for a good raincoat and even a winter coat. These are two key pieces that are always marked down this time of year and the least exciting to buy. It seems to be more fun to buy a raincoat when it is raining or a winter coat when cold weather is forecasted. Saving money on these pieces can afford you to spend more later on something you really would like to have. Possibly buying even another coat for variety. I love coats!!
Sale time is my favorite time of the year. Just because it is marked down doesn't mean it was a dud. So..the hunt is on! Try to move away from wearing the same ole easy wear stuff. Now that we are all getting out again, it's time to dress up! Life is too special not to.
Sincerely,
T. Rendy
