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Contents
14 July-August 2009 Volume III • Number 10
EVENTS
8 10
8
19
25 Boll Weevils Unmasked
Sunset Symphony Party for Porter-Leath
30 Up on the Roof with Josh:
Miles to Go… but not out of the South
32 VIP Beauty:
12
Rockin' Hallelujah Happening at Theatre Memphis
16
Johnson Roasted at Racquet Club
19
Carnival Memphis Coverage
Catch that Downtown Spirit this Summer
dinner series kicks off
28 Train Came Whistling Through the Garden
28 Memphis Handicappers Benefit Harwood
FEATURES
14
VIP Outing: Summer at the Shell
four mixologists at local watering holes share recipes for cool libations
Finding Your Hair’s Perfect Personality by Sheila Zaricor-Wilson
39 Old + New A Passion for Gardens: in East Memphis and Cordova
26 St. Blues Exhibit Opens 26 Farmers Market Summer
45 Favorite Summer Drinks:
45 REGULARS
39
6 Letter from the Editor 34 Just Out of the Spotlight, the Movie Lady Reports on From Panels to Premieres: The Right Stuff!
36 Opening Doors by Cissy Willis of Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors
37 Marketing: Back To Basics – by Howell Marketing Strategies
48 People and Places 50 For the Love of Wine
4 • VIP
Memphis
LEttEr From the Editor
I
I know I must sound like a broken record, but this is truly a fantastic issue, not least because we covered so many wonderfully festive Carnival Memphis parties this past month. The icing on the cake for me was to have the opportunity to spend a morning with the King and Queen of Carnival as they made their rounds of royal visits. Read all about it in my article “Boll Weevils Unmasked.” I now have a huge crush on all of these amazing "green guys" and insisted on corralling one of their ranks to be pictured with me. In our Old + New photographic section entitled “A Passion for Gardens,” we feature two beautiful gardens that will make you feel cooler just to look at them. Summertime hair is the subject of Sheila Zaricor-Wilson’s VIP Beauty article and in Up on the Roof with Josh, our dear friend from the Madison Hotel entertains us with some of his favorite downtown summer memories. Our VIP Outing this month was to Overton Park's very own Levitt Shell which is quickly becoming a favorite family summer musical venue. You will notice that this issue covers a two month period---July and August. It's the dog days of summer after all, and the perfect time for a vacation. (I for one am contemplating a little trip to Cape Cod). We think it makes good sense to take a break during this relatively quiet social season. Of course VIP Memphis photographers will continue to cover events throughout these summer months, so please
PUBLISHER keep your invitations rolling in to our office. On the assumption that absence makes the heart grow fonder, we count on your continued support and trust you will eagerly anticipate our return with a gangbuster September issue. In the meantime, keep in touch, and I wish everyone a happy Fourth of July and a fun-filled summer!F
Anne
Photo by Keith Renard of Skipworth
Kat Semrau
ADMINISTRATOR Lorne Semrau
EDITOR Anne Cunningham O’Neill
GRAPHIC DESIGN Donna Donald, Director Ben Williams
WEB MASTER Robert Neilson
ADVERTISING Senior Account Executive Mark O. Ramirez Account Executives Loryn Kramer Jason Watson Ellen E. Westbrook
WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Jay Adkins Sarah Christine Bolton Lyda Kay Ferree Mark O. Ramirez Christina Trask Andrea Zucker
Distribution Terry Lay
VIP MEMPHIS MAGAZINE
About the Cover
6 • VIP
Memphis
Y
You may recall that last year's July issue of VIP Memphis magazine featured a magnificent photograph of Old Glory waving in the breeze. We decided that it would be a nice idea to continue this tradition of having a Fourth of July-themed cover. When we saw the image of young Joseph Haltom, which was captured at the Sunset Symphony by photographer Andrea Zucker, we immediately knew this was it. Joseph and his brother Matthew are members of Boy Scout troop 241, and they presented the colors of the USA and Memphis in May’s honored country, Chile, at the beginning of the 2009 Sunset Symphony. Against a backdrop of brilliant fireworks, the result is a striking and emotional cover that is reminiscent of the art of Norman Rockwell. In fact, in 1924, Rockwell painted his first Boy Scout calendar cover, “A Good Turn”, for Brown & Bigelow and went on to create Boy Scout calendar covers for over 52 years.
Suite 212 4711 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38117 901.766.2999 901.766.2977 (fax) memphis@vipmag.com www.vipmag.com
PRINTED BY Toof Commercial Printing 670 South Cooper Street Memphis, TN 38104
VIPEvent
Sunset Symphony Party for Porter-Leath
G
Gail and Karl Schledwitz and Susan and Richard Glassman hosted a glamorous seated dinner with fabulous food by Cordon Bleu Chef Robert Hayes, fine wines and stunning views of the fireworks finale that brought down the curtain on this year's Memphis in May International Festival. The donations made by guests went to support Porter-Leath, which has been building stronger children and stronger families for over 150 years. F Photography by Christina Trask
Mark & Jane Stephens
Terry Lynch & Cathy Weaver
Karl, Gail & Karly Schledwitz
Richard & Andrea Goeglein with Susan & Richard Glassman
Jenna & Ed Wallis
Jim Himes & Tempe Chancellor
Greg Wilson & Kenzey Perkins
Louise & Blanchard Tual
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8 • VIP
Memphis
happy hours monday-friday 5pm-7pm and daiLy LunCh spECiaLs
July/August 2009 • 9
VIPEvent
Michael Crohan & Ray Noland
cast and crew of The Fall of Allen Clay
Miles to Go… but not out of the South
V
VIP Memphis magazine was privileged to attend the Paradiso screening of writer/director/producer Michael F. Crohan's first feature film, The Fall of Allen Clay. This independent film, made by Crohan's Miles To Go Productions Company, has been called a psychological thriller and dramatic tragedy. The film was co-written by Galen Gower and co-produced by Ray Noland and is the tale of a best-selling writer whose life spins out of control after his wife is murdered. The 94minute movie was shot with a Canon XL-2 digital video camera, and there are close to 40 speaking roles. Locations used in the film included homes and businesses in Memphis and the Mid-South, as well, notably, as the Southaven Police Department. Crohan is a community theater veteran, former con-
struction company owner, and downtown Memphis resident. He has dreamed of making movies his whole life and says that "we are firmly rooted in the Mid-South and are not planning on going anywhere, or in other words, "Miles To Go, but not out of the South.” Crohan believes that there is a wealth of talent in Memphis and the Mid-South, both for the on-camera roles and the technical jobs required to produce top-quality feature movies and television projects. It is also part of the plan to reach out to young people to provide training regardless of their ability to pay. According to Crohan, the goal is to help “our area to become a center for production companies to come and find a pool of great talent." The film was very good, and the screening was great fun. I met a number of the actors and sat next to Scott Fer-
guson, who was proud to have been in the film, and whose day job is public relations for the Southaven Police Department. Marques Brown plays Allen Clay. Peri Beckerman plays the demon spirit that kills people, and she had to endure two hours of being made up for her spooky role. Everyone associated with the film---cast and crew alike---testified to Crohan’s enthusiasm and his commitment to the project, and all agreed that it would not have happened without him. And now for something completely different. Crohan says that their next film will be much lighter and will focus on “the good in the world.” VIP Memphis wishes you the best of luck. Your audience awaits, Michael.F Story by Anne Cunningham O'Neill and photography by Andrea Zucker
James Buchanan, Michael Crohan, Justin Gillis & Matt Brewer
Ashley Clark & Kay Clark 10 • VIP Memphis
Michael Crohan, Pat Caldwell & Jim Wyatt
Marques W. Brown & Galen Gower
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Stansell Square at 2064 West Street in Germantown July/August 2009 • 11
VIPEvent
Rockin' Hallelujah Happening at Theatre Memphis
T
The annual Theatre Memphis gala was an evening jam-packed with theatrical fun and games from start to finish. One of the stars of this show was Voices of the South's very own comedic Sister Myotis as Mistress of Ceremonies. Guests were treated to both silent and live auctions, entertainment by Joyce Cobb, a buffet and open bars, and late night dancing with Solid Gold. F Photography by Christina Trask
Deon Murray & Jim Carson Ed Adwell, Tom Lee & Keith Headley
Ashley Brown & Amber Reagan
John Thomas Appling & Kinon Keplinger
Kay Carey, Nancy Willis & Lucy Lee
Jim Bentler & Mila McFaden
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Tom Fortner, Kristy Street & Stephen Gipson
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July/August 2009 • 13
VIPouTInG
Photography by Andrea Zucker
Cowboy Jack Clement
Chic Gamine Jimmy Davis
Glen Cox, Mimi Levitt, Elizabeth Levitt Hirsch & Barry Lichterman
T
New Ballet Ensemble
Summer at the Shell
The Levitt Shell celebrated its opening weekend of the Spring Concert Season with a beautiful reception. Honored guests included Mimi Levitt, the widow of benefactor Mortimer Levitt, and their daughter Elizabeth Levitt Hirsch with her partner Glen Cox. The celebration kicks off the Levitt Shell’s second season of free concerts since undergoing extensive renovations and celebrating its grand re-opening in September 2008. The Shell’s rich musical heritage, central location in Overton Park and multi-cultural music programming make it an ideal setting to bring the Memphis community together. The concert series began with a performance by Memphis-born Cowboy Jack Clement, a producer and songwriter who has had a legendary career. Anne Pitts is the executive director of the Levitt Shell which is part of a growing family of Levitt Pavilions nationwide. F
14 • VIP Memphis
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VIPEvent
Ed Stevens & Dianne Day
R.C. Johnson, Priscilla Presley & Ton
Jimmy McBryde & Sen. Steve Cohen
Johnson Roasted at Racquet Club
R
R.C. Johnson, University of Memphis athletic director, was recently roasted at the Racquet Club and a long list of VIPs were on hand to do the roasting. Joe Birch was the master of ceremonies and roast master was George Lapides. Johnson is well-
Josh Pastner with Dave & Gayle Woloshin
June & Tom Rauscher
16 • VIP Memphis
known for his fascination with Elvis, and therefore it was entirely fitting that Priscilla Presley was on hand to take part in the fun. Proceeds from the event went to benefit the Tiger Scholarship Fund. F Photography by Christina Trask
David Rains, Erin Dianni & Amy O' Bannon
Richard Whaley & Ginny Miller
Allison & Chris Webb
Barbara & George Lapides
y Barrasso
July/August 2009 • 17
CarnivalCoverage Crown & Sceptre Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
K
Carnival Memphis the party with a purpose King Keith Barton and Queen Paige Phillips reigned magnificently over the myriad of festivities that characterized the 78th fabulous year of Carnival Memphis. We salute you both! And now a look back. . . .
Henry & Janie Bailey
Kim & Johnny Pitts Tempe Thompson July/August 2009 • 19
CarnivalCoverage
Dawn & Earl Wade
Bob & Edie Miller with Collin Fountain
Crown & Sceptre cont. Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Ainslie Todd
Ayana Fletcher Tyson, Kathryn Kelly & Alicia Anderson
Barry, Jennifer & Barbara Barnett
Newton Anderson & MaryJean Burke
Princess Ball Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Russ & Cindy Mire Cindy & Mark Phillips 20 • VIP Memphis
Taylor Smith & Tracy Galfsky
Chuck & Melanie Woodall
CarnivalCoverage
Dabney & Stuart Collier
Memphi Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Queen Vicki McCullough & King Tommy Baker
Martha & Mike Hess
Patti & Ron Callan
Ennead Clubroom Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
King Jim Driscoll & Queen McKay Clar k Marta Vinzant & Carl Boggs
Carol Chumney & Don Tillilie
Bob LaBonia & Barbara Patronis July/August 2009 • 21
CarnivalCoverage
Rags to Riches Fashion Show Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Wendi Gammill & Eryka Smith
Bobby & Mary DeShields
mon King Henry Barnhardt with Queen Eve Gam
Ra-Met Clubroom Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Llana Smith-Rada with Bobby & Paula Stack 22 • VIP Memphis
Llana Smith-Rada & Sheila Zaricor-Wils on
CarnivalCoverage Krewes for Kids Photography by Christina Trask
Bob Bryant, Russell McDaniel, Keith Barton, Judy Jones & Paige Phillips
Sphinx Queen’s Luncheon Nineteenth Century Club
Bary Burton & Ally Luciano
Photography by Christina Trask
Hope Gardner & Angela Fountain
Queen Paige Phillips Kate Smith, Elizabeth Ansbro, Natalie Brown & Shelly Thannum
Nancy Imre & Al Owings
C.C. Myers & Bill Hunt
Tommy & Phyllis Pollard
Sharon Shipley, Chessie Peavy & Catherine Harris
Ptolemy Clubroom
Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Christine Montgomery, Anita Howald, Queen T.J. Searcy, King Henry Bailey, Sharon Fewell & Janie Bailey
Luxor, Ptah & Sphinx Clubroom Photography by Christina Trask
Queen Jana Lamanna & King George Gates
Mark Turnbow & Brittany Myers
Judy Jones & Libby Zoghby
Lanetta Lanier & Don Lasseter July/August 2009 • 23
CarnivalCoverage
Jennifer & Ward Walthal III Gil Uhlhorn & Grace Swaney
Steven Johnson & Debbie Bennett
Rodney, June & Derrick Baber
Brenda Crain & Ivy Trippeer
Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Mike & Donna McManus
Princess Alice Craddock & Michael Wills
???????????? Chantal Johnson & Chey Widdop Lisa Roberts,
Liz Farnsworth, Paige Phillips, Lissa Noel
Memphis Hunt and Polo Club
Frank Crump, Princess Audsley Dunavant, Club President Bruce Hopkins
24 • VIP Memphis
University Club
Libbie Moore, Laura McKee & Mary Pierce
Catherine, Princess Carolyn & Wallace Cowart
Jennifer & Joel Hobson
Memphis Country Club
Tyler Cannon, Peggy & Chip Campbell
CarnivalCoverage
Boll Weevils Unmasked
C
by Anne Cunningham O’Neill
Carnival Memphis has always been a part of my life. I represented the Junior League as a Princess in the Royal Court when I was in college, and my daughter was a princess of the realm several years ago. I also well recall the great excitement when the King and Queen of Carnival paid a visit to the old Hutchison School at 1925 Union. But that was then, and this is now...the 78th year of Carnival Memphis. As its tagline suggests, it is indeed “the party with a purpose” and the beneficiaries of this year’s Children’s Charity Initiative were Youth Villages, Memphis Oral School for the Deaf and Streets Ministries. A total of $125,000 was raised with help from matching funds and to date, more than $1 million has been raised for Mid-South children’s charities since this initiative’s inception in 1999. When Johnny Pitts, the outstanding 2009 Carnival President, graciously invited me, on behalf of VIP Memphis magazine, to accompany Queen Paige Phillips and King Keith Barton for a morning’s round of royal visits, I jumped at the chance. I was excited to have the opportunity to see “Carnival” in action, and it was agreed that I would highlight the Secret Order of Boll Weevils and their special role in the Carnival proceedings. My special day began with breakfast at the Queen’s home, and I was impressed with the splitsecond timing and the organization that went into planning the royal schedule. I chatted with several good-natured key players in this process, including Ed Galfsky, Executive Director of Carnival, Barry Marshall, scheduler par excellence and Royal Court Coordinator, Keith Renard of Skipworth, the official Carnival Memphis photographer, and Frank Trimboli, driver for the King and Queen who was from the Sheriff’s Department. Once the motorcade got rollin’, it was a privilege to have the chance to talk privately with Queen Paige, who confessed that for her it was the “day runs” ---which is to say the visits to the children, the older folks and the mentally and physically challenged--- that meant the most to her during her reign. King Keith said he was the third generation of his family to serve as Carnival king and with this royal lineage, he felt he could not refuse the honor. It was clear that service to the community was what
mattered most to these royal personages. Back to those Boll Weevils---the funny green masked fellows in the outlandish outfits---who are an integral part of the public face of Carnival. The Secret Order was established in 1966 as a nonprofit organization, and since then there have been over 80 weevils, whose color (that would be green!), flamboyance and mischievousness have become an indispensable Carnival trademark. But make no mistake, the people behind the masks are not frat boys, but grown men with jobs. They volunteer their time, year after year, out of the goodness of their hearts. It has been said that “once a weevil always a weevil, like the Marines.” Number 56 Boll Weevil, Todd Brown, was unmasked this year and for the next two years will be in charge of his fellow weevils. Proof of their popularity is that on the royal schedule, the instruction, “Boll Weevils requested,” appears time and again. They routinely follow the royal motorcade in a green bus (which amazingly did not break down during the whole of this year’s Carnival). When we arrived at the Porter-Leath/American Way Head Start facility, the crowd of children went wild. The Weevils entered the room, and the fun, mischief and mayhem began. They handed out beads and plastered stickers on everyone and rolled on the floor with the kids--- joking, hugging and tickling their way through the room. They brought smiles, squeals of joy and hysterics wherever they went. All I can think of to describe the scene is “Romper
Photo by Keith Renard of Skipworth
Photo by Keith Renard
of Skipworth
Room” on steroids. By the way, the Porter-Leath is a fabulous facility with a dedicated and creative staff serving young children from “at risk families.” The Raymond Skinner Community Center in the Cooper-Young area, which is a recreational facility for people with physical and/or mental disabilities, was our second stop. The Boll Weevils played basketball, danced to hip-hop and rap music and exited in a conga line with everyone literally getting into the swing of things. Their finale was to dance on top of their bus to “Boogie Shoes” by KC and the Sunshine Band. As the royal entourage moved on to their afternoon engagements (one of the 53 stops that they made during the week), I was left with a very real, “up close and personal” sense of the good that Carnival Memphis was doing for the community, as exemplified by the activities of Queen Paige, King Keith, and of course the Boll Weevils. I had been privileged to be along for the ride to experience the Carnival magic, and now I can hardly wait til Carnival 2010.F
July/August 2009 • 25
VIPEvents
The Memphis Belles
Andrew Ticer & Michael Hudman
Farmers Market Summer dinner series kicks off
St. Blues Exhibit Opens
T
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum created a new exhibit to honor the 25th anniversary of the formation of the Saint Blues Guitar Workshop, and a gala reception was held to mark the occasion. Brian Halley, Saint Blues Director of Sales and Marketing, told us that St. Blues was one of the original boutique guitar manufacturers, and it catered to the musicians’ needs of Alvin Youngblood Hart and Brian Halley the day. The first original guitar prototype designed for St. Blues was the Bluesmaster and its unique shape, vintage appearance and playability created great interest among players. F Bryan Eagle and John Doyle
Charlie Ryan, Catrina Guttery, Kevin Kane and Robert Johnson 26 • VIP Memphis
T
The summer Farmers Market dinner tour got off to a great start with a sold-out dinner at Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen on W. Brookhaven Circle. The fourcourse dinner featured items from eight local farms and included delicacies such as braised Newman Farms pork cheeks and strawberry and honeysuckle panna cotta. The dinner tour is a fundraiser for the Memphis Farmers Market with 30% of the evening’s proceeds donated to the market. It is a tasty way to share the bounty of the market and encourage the use of local produce in inventive and delicious ways. There is still time to reserve for August’s meal at Restaurant Iris and the September event at Erling Jensen. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Fiona & Lance Binder
Janet Ticer, Libby Hudman, Rena Chiozza & Katie Hudman
Ben & Beth Brock
July/August 2009 • 27
VIPEvents
Train Came Whistling Through the Garden It was a beautiful Friday night when the Memphis Botanic Garden’s summer concert series, “Live at the Garden” launched its ninth season with a performance by the alt-rock band Train. The program, the Garden’s biggest annual fund-raising effort, features five shows throughout the summer, and it has become a not to be missed summer institution.F Photography by Christina Trask
I
Chris Miller & Tina Cook
Kimble Wells & Sue Jamerson
Robbie Hinojosa, Karen MacCormack & Christina Coletta
Theresa Andreuccetti, Greta Cooper & Alita Carpenter
Memphis Handicappers Benefit Harwood
T
The organizers of the Memphis Handicappers 50th anniversary Golf Tournament, held at the Memphis Country Club, really lucked out with the weather. With nothing but rain for days, the skies cleared just in the nick of time to allow them to hold this tourney --- the oldest charity golf tournament in Memphis. Its history dates back to 1959 when a group of prominent Memphis businessmen and golfers turned their love of the game into a means of raising funds to support the special needs children of what is now named the Harwood Center. VIP Memphis magazine was delighted to attend the reception and awards presentation following the tournament. We caught up with, among others, Nan Raffanti Miller, the very able and charming Director of the Center, and our great friend, Kip Lichterman, who is on the Memphis Handicappers Board of Directors and whose father was one of the founders of the event. F 28 • VIP Memphis
Elkin Scheidt & Abe Plough Jr.
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Michael Lightman & Kip Lichterman
Ronnie Cooper & Howard Manis
Jay Robinson, Walter Bross & Ernie Ward
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901-766-2999 lorne@vipmag.com July/August 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 29
Up on the Roof with Josh
Catch that Downtown Spirit this Summer
S
Summer has arrived with all the cookouts, festivals, concerts and time spent with family and friends that we cherish and eagerly look forward to during the cold winter months. Having grown up in Memphis, there are so many evocative moments that I fondly remember from southern summers long past. One of my most treasured memories revolves around July 4th. When I was a child, it was a yearly tradition to take a Mississippi River cruise and enjoy the fireworks, food and amazing view of the city. My favorite part of this annual outing was getting to sing "Ol Man River" with the legendary Mr. James Hyter. He was a family friend, and every year he would allow me to join him on stage to sing what has evolved into a theme song for Memphis. His deep bass-baritone voice embodied the power of the river and became synonymous with Memphis in May's Sunset Symphony. We will all miss him very much. In many ways I believe that these summer highlights helped to form my love of music, Memphis and the mighty Mississippi.
Our first Sunset Atop the Madison kicked off this year with Joyce Cobb under beautiful skies with an enormous crowd. First up on the song list was "Walking in Memphis." Throughout the entire evening we were graced with the talents of Joyce and her band and with many treasured blues favorites. As I stared across the river into the dark horizon that evening and as the crowd began to disperse, "Walking in Memphis" was heard again as the final encore. Many
wonderful memories flooded back of times spent along the muddy banks of the river during Memphis in May, of singing with Mr. Hyter on the annual 4th of July cruise and of ball games at AutoZone Park, Deli Dogs at Front St. Deli, concerts at the Pyramid and other downtown summertime fun. As I looked around the city from the vantage point of the Madison's unrivaled view, I reflected on what a great city we truly have and how much there is to celebrate here. As downtown Memphis continues to evolve and grow with major projects such as the University of Memphis Law School and new shops, art galleries, restaurants and other attractions, it is vital that we all support what makes our city unique among others. We must embrace this individuality and visit the Memphis Farmers Market, take in
a Red Birds game, and remember to praise (not bash) our great city. I invite you this summer to come downtown and enjoy our weekly Sunset Atop the Madison parties with amazing local talent, dine in the many great restaurants, shop in our boutique stores and share in the positive experiences that abound in Memphis. These challenging times, with constant reminders of recession and global turmoil, provide the perfect opportunity to begin to form new and happy traditions. Who knows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; maybe youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll even find yourself singing along with Reba Russell or one of the other amazing talents that we have every Thursday evening, up on the roof. Come and join me and catch that downtown summer spirit. F Best,
Josh
Josh Spotts Madison Hotel 79 Madison Ave Memphis, TN 38103 jspotts@madisonhotelmemphis.com 30 â&#x20AC;˘ VIP
Memphis
THE COPPER WORKS OF
BEN CALDWELL
JULY 23RD - 24TH
Come visit artist Ben Caldwell at art under a hot tin roof on Thursday, July 23rd from 6pm to 9pm (artist reception) & Friday, July 24th from 11am to 9pm.
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July/August 2009 • 31
VIPBeauty
Sheila Zaricor-Wilson on
Finding Your Hair’s Perfect Personality
S
Summer is here! Everyone is looking for
be realistic. The ends of the hair, repeat-
greater flexibility with the season’s out-
edly colored over the years, begin to dis-
door lifestyles. Current trends show hair
integrate if not replenished with protein
going really short and curly or growing
after every color and proper application
longer to be pulled back. Either way there
of the haircolor.
are certain needs that you must heed to
The length of the hair hinges on sev-
maintain beautiful hair. It takes such a
eral factors, rate of growth (on an average
small amount of time to keep hair in its
½ inch a month), replacement growth
optimum condition compared to trying to
(life cycle of the hair is three to five years)
repair it after the damage has taken place.
and texture (the finer the hair the less
Every change of the weather brings differ-
likely hair will grow long). Calculating
ent challenges. Consult with your stylist
that, the average person can only grow 18
each season to make sure the products you
inches in three years before it falls out
are using will be correct for your hair.
and starts over. Today’s products have im-
Haircolor plays a big part of the per-
proved the shine and integrity of the hair.
sonality of the style. The shorter the hair,
Thermal protectors used before blow dry-
the lighter the hair can be. With long hair,
ing will help counteract the negative ef-
the opposite is true. The focus shifts as
fects of the heat. Ionic dryers will also do
the hair grows, so the solution is to re-
their part by decreasing the length of dry-
place the lighter ends with several tones
ing time. And now we have the dramatic
of highlights mixed with low lights from
transforming of bad looking hair to great
scalp to end. As the hair grows, the wear
looking hair with the THERMAL RE-
and tear from the elements alone will
CONSTRUCTORS.
dull the ends of the hair and a good colorist can add back the shine and youthfulness
with
nuances
of
tones.
Remember, with long hair, you have to
Be hair smart and enjoy summer days without worry. F
Sheila Zaricor-Wilson is owner of Master Design Salon & Wellness Studio at 5149 Wheelis Drive, telephone 901.685.2351.
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July/August 2009 • 33
Just Out of the Spotlight
From Panels to Premieres: The Right Stuff! The Movie Lady Reports by Linn Sitler
W
We all know the beginning of a good film is a good story…a good treatment…a good script… and there was plenty of advice on how to be very good… at the recent Nashville Screenwriters’ Conference. Headquartered at Nashville’s Union Station Hotel (owned by former Memphian and White Station High School grad, Mark Bloom), the Conference attracted bigname screenwriters from all over the world. Memphis filmmaker/writer Craig Brewer ($5 COVER, BLACK SNAKE MOAN, HUSTLE & FLOW) appeared on a panel with fellow writers Ted Griffin (OCEAN’S ELEVEN), Craig Mazin (SCARY MOVIE 3, SCARY MOVIE 4), and Alec Berg (CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM). Founded by our present-day U. S. Congressman, The Honorable Marsha Blackburn, the conference’s world-class panels were followed by world-class parties. An invitation to the openingnight party at Tony & Anastasia Brown’s resort-sized home was definitely the most sought after invitation. Fast forward a week to more panels, more parties -- this time in Los Angeles! Held the same weekend, The Producers Guild of America’s Produced By Conference and The Hollywood Black International Film Festival (HBIFF) saw the best of studio and independent black filmmakers, respectively. Memphian Julius Lewis, who cowrote, financed, and produced the feature film, N-SECURE, was gratified -from his hospital bed -- to learn that his film’s HBIFF premiere at Beverly Hill’s Laemmle's Music Hall Theatre was a sold-out success. That’s right, Julius missed his own premiere -- with pneumonia sending the young entrepreneur to L.A.’s Cedar-Sinai Hospital the very night of the premiere. That's showbiz! Glad to report that Julius is fine now, back in Memphis, and thrilled that his film caused such a big festival buzz. Hoping to see you in next month's spotlight!F
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The Honorable Marsha Blackburn and her showbiz constituents party together at Nashville Screenwriters Conference closing party, traditionally held at a Nashville llama farm: (left to right) Memphis movie mogul Craig Brewer; Berlin Alliance Film Exchanger Julia Donner; The Hon. Marsha Blackburn; Memphis hip-hop artist Muck Sticky; Memphis/Shelby Co. Film Commissioner Linn Sitler; and standing with dignity in the background, Andy van Roon, founder of Film Nashville and Friend to All.
Memphis & Shelby Co. Music Commissioner Johnnie Walker (right) talks Memphis music while in line for the world premiere in Los Angeles of N-SECURE.
Posing for pictures at Tony & Anastasia Brown’s palatial home during a “VIP” party at the Nashville Screenwriters Conference: (left to right): Memphis’ own Craig Brewer; (me); Memphis native/world music legend “Cowboy” Jack Clement; “Dub” Cornett, popular Nashville musician and filmmaker. Happy with N-SECURE’s enthusiastic reception from the premiere audience, star Essence Atkins(left) and producer Valerie Enloe meet in the theatre's lobby.
Producer of the made-in-Memphis movie, NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH, James Spies joins Danny Glover's development executive, Karen Bolt, at N-SECURE’s LA premiere.
Memphis' favorite producer, Michael Hausman (THE FIRM, THE PEOPLE VS. LARRY FLYNT, A FAMILY THING, etc.) shows his true feelings toward Memphis' film commissioner at a pre-premiere gathering in Los Angeles for lucky N-SECURE ticket-holders.
N-SECURE Director David M. Matthews (left), Producer Valerie Enloe (center), and Legal Counsel Carlee McCullough (right) compare tickets pre-premiere.
Memphis film folk celebrate post-premiere in Los Angeles with me: (left to right): N-SECURE’s multi-talented crew members: Tony Flessas,(me), James Young, Bryce Southard, and (back row) Greg Stanford.
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July/August 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 35
Opening Doors
We've Come a Long Way, Baby
by Cissy Willis
This is a description of the life of a REALTOR and how far we have come. Picture that little duck cruising along on the lake. Above water, there appears to be no effort. However, below the water level, there is a lot of activity. Those webbed feet are pedaling like crazy.
N
ot long after I entered the world of real estate, we put a man on the moon. Since that giant leap for mankind, modern technology has continued to make a tremendous difference in my chosen field. Years ago, to keep up to date, REALTORS had to drive around, make lists of available homes and call the individual agents to find out the particulars. We tried to set a price from this information. We then filled out an index card with the room sizes and limited comments and mailed it to the Memphis Board of Realtors, which sent someone to photograph the exterior of the home. The photo and the index card were mailed to “somewhere” in California. Maybe two weeks later, the new listing appeared in the Multiple Listing Book, and all agents became aware of a “new” avail-
able home. This book was the size of a telephone book and purchasers had to come to our office to thumb through it to determine what houses they wanted to see. Setting up an appointment to show a home was a real feat, and sometimes we found out the home had been sold weeks ago before. Today, all of this is done electronically. Beginning with the first contact, research is done to place a value on the home through various sources, including Memphis Area Association of Realtors data, Chandler Reports, and public records on the Internet of available “like” properties and sold properties, with “like” square footage and amenities. A home is listed for sale, entered in our data system, and agents know of its availability immediately and can then email material to prospective buyers.
While marketing strategy has always been aimed at achieving the highest price and fastest sale, today it is much more advanced:
“Setting up an appointment to show a home was a real feat!”
• Multiple photos and videos showing the property to its best advantage are placed in the Multiple Listing Service and entered on web sites such as Realtor.com, AOLrealestate.com, scripps.com, homes&land.com, oodle.com, google.com, trulia.com, yahooclassified.com, homescape.com., cyberhomes.com, zillow.com, ast.com, my realty.com, hotpacis.com, propbot.com. and a host of others. Last but not least, the best of all--- cef-realtors.com and cissywillis.com Of course, I am a little biased! • A private viewing is held for the office REALTORS to obtain feedback on a given property, its market price, and its presentation; there are also REALTORS luncheons to show the property to all MAAR agents; • Open houses are planned to show the property to prospective buyers; • Advertisements are placed in newspapers, magazines, and websites; • Brochures are produced; and • Appointments are set up and feedback on the showings passed along to the client. The sale and eventual “success”: • Contractual agreement is prepared that will achieve a successful closing; • Negotiations are undertaken to obtain the highest value and best terms; • After a successful negotiation, the parties (seller, buyer, attorney and lender) must have all necessary information and forms. Each State is different. Tennessee requires a “property condition disclosure form” from the seller, for example; • Appointments must be set up for a home inspection if required; • Follow-up with all parties is conducted to ensure everything is moving smoothly;
Bringing buyers and sellers together! Cissy Willis, CRB, CRS, GRI Life member of Multi-Million Dollar Sale Club Cissy@cissywillis.com Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors 651 Oakleaf Office Lane Memphis, TN 38117 Home 901 754-8351, 901 767-4100
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• In the event things do not go well, problems must be solved. And hopefully, we have the experience to solve them. Finally comes that happy day when both buyer and seller have smiley faces. The actual closing! This is the point where the client says, “That was so easy; I think I will go into real estate.” At least, I hope it seemed that effortless. Oh, by the way, did I mention we put a sign in the yard!F
MarketiNg: bACk to Basics
The Importance of a Good PR Strategy Q&A with Amy Howell of Howell Marketing Strategies This month, we’re talking about the importance of having a good public relations strategy in good times and more importantly, in bad times… Q: What is a public relations strategy? A: It is an organization’s plan for telling a story in the public domain. PR never sleeps, especially now that information can be blasted within seconds around the world via the Internet. Just recently, a “tweet” (message posted on Twitter) sparked a media firestorm with a client of mine. Both local and national media with Twitter accounts picked up the message and believed it to be factual, which then resulted in the dissemination of inaccurate information. Using a PR strategy, we were able to quickly correct and distribute the real story using the telephone, e-mails, social media and wire services. Luckily, the story died down as fast as it crept up, but I am reminded daily that PR is now a 24/7 animal. With that being said, it is vital for organizations to be ready to respond when needed and to be proactive in telling their story. A true PR strategy for any organization includes developing key messages for the brand, determining the target audiences that need to hear this information and defining how to tell it through PR and other communications vehicles. Additionally, creating and maintaining a crisis management plan is crucial to the PR strategy.
What Are You Doing? Although Twitter trails other Web giants, its explosive growth over the past year means it could soon catch up. April ‘08 Visitors
April ‘09 Visitors
Change
120.79
131.60
9%
22.48
71.29
217%
47.26
50.37
7%
58.75
54.60
-7%
(in millions)
1.22
(in millions)
17.10 1,298% Source: Neilson
Q: How do you know when something is newsworthy? A: This is a great question. We often have people telling us stories that they think are news when they are not. On the flip side, people sometimes don’t realize that they have newsworthy information, which can then be used in a proactive, positive way for their organization. If you aren’t sure what is newsworthy and what is not, try to look at your potential story from an un-biased reader’s perspective. Is this news that someone who isn’t related to your company would enjoy hearing? Does your story have an interesting hook or timeliness factor? Or, you can always call a reporter, and they will give you feedback. However, I recommend using a PR firm for all media outreaches. PR professionals have relationships with the media and can often get feedback much quicker than companies that cold call. If you find that you are lacking a story, you can create one by reading the news and looking for relevant trends that might apply to your business. We enjoy and emphasize creating news, and we are always trying to find opportunities that are timely and relevant for our clients. Q: When do you communicate bad news and how do you know when you should? A: This can be a fine line to walk for many organizations, and we’ve seen examples of this recently. My advice is simple: if you are a public figure or a high profile, nonprofit or public organization, you are accountable to others. Therefore, you must strive to be honest, transparent and credible. This also means that when something bad happens, you have to deal with it quickly and factually. Your lawyers and communications team should be briefed as soon as you are aware of an issue and should all be telling the same story. A good PR plan will help guide you through this process of telling your side of the negative situation before someone else does. I tell people all the time, “tell your own story or
someone else will tell it for you”. This goes for the good, the bad and the ugly. Q: Should you incorporate social media into your PR strategy? A: As mentioned in last month’s column, social media is a popular tool that, when used correctly, can be a strong asset to a public relations strategy. A good PR campaign requires a grass-roots understanding of an organization’s objectives. Blending traditional PR and marketing with social media tools can be a successful PR formula. Your web site, social media activity and traditional media communication should all create and carry a consistent message. Trust and credibility remain key to good public relations and are the essential first steps to successfully utilizing social media. If people trust and understand what you are saying and doing, they will be more likely to consume and distribute your information, which after all, is the main goal of a PR campaign. F Please join hosts Howell Marketing Strategies and The Daily News on August 27 at the Brooks Museum for "Continuing The Conversation", a social media panel discussion. Information and registration at howell-marketing.com.
Amy Howell “Visit Howell Marketing online at http://howell-marketing.com/ to find new PR, marketing, and social media related articles. If you have a question you would like addressed, e-mail amy@howell-marketing.com”
Source: “How Twitter Will Change the Way We Live (in 140 characters or less)” by Steven Johnson/ TIME/ June 15, 2009
July/August 2009 • 37
OlD+New
FOR GARDENS
these lines were penned by Dorothy Frances gurney, an english poet and hymn writer, in her poem, “god’s garden.” they resonate with gardeners everywhere, and i remember first reading them on a plaque in my grandmother’s Morningside Park rose garden. this month’s Old + New section celebrates the beauty and the transcendent quality of two outstanding local gardens — one adorning a new home in east Memphis and the other on an established lakeside property in Cordova.
OlD+New
CASCADES&VIGNETTES
t
his garden is just over a year old. Consisting originally of “bad grass, a tree and a few shrubs,” the homeowners have transformed it into a picturesque jewel with the help of landscaper Brad Phillips and well-known tastemaker, Frank Langford. Central to the design is the wet creek bed which features a series of cascading waterfalls and a pond. With its mix of sun and shade, plantings of hydrangea and agapanthus, and stunning statuary, the homeowners think of their garden as being divided “into little vignettes.” The birds love the running water and are a constant source of entertainment. It comes as no surprise that the porch, at least for now, is the favorite room in the house.
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OlD+New
July/August 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 41
OlD+New
LAKESIDE CORDOVA GARDEN
Y
ou may have already read about this wonderful garden—-last year’s winner in the Commercial Appeal’s Garden of the Year contest. Its half-acre lot slopes down to Walnut Grove Lake in a series of terraces and winding paths, and it is an oasis in the truest sense of the word. Water views make this garden particularly cool and inviting in the hot summer months, and unique sculpture and other outdoor artwork add additional visual interest.
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OlD+New
July/August 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 43
OlD+New
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FAVORITE SUMMER DRINKS Photography by Jay Adkins
The bartenders of four of our advertising restaurants were asked to provide recipes for their favorite summer drinks, one including alcohol and one without. Follow their instructions, swizzle and enjoy!
July/August 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 45
FavOrite SuMMer DRINKS
= alcoholic
CIRCA
FLIGHT
119 S Main St # 100 Memphis, TN 38103-3656 (901) 522-1488 www.circamemphis.com
39 South Main Street Memphis, TN 38103 (901) 521-8005 www.flightmemphis.com
= non-alcoholic
Chris Davis Christina Blackwell
Summer Fruit Cocktail Serial Girlfriend Pineapple Upside Down Virgin
Pineapple Upside Down Virgin
Cucumber Martini
Chris Davis
Christina Blackwell, Bartender
Shake 2 oz. of pineapple juice and splash of Sprite; pour in martini glass. Then pour grenadine on side of glass so that it will sink to the bottom. A cherry can be added as a garnish if so desired.
2
Serial Girlfriend Chris Davis 1 oz. ½ oz. ½ oz. Splash Splash
Summer Fruit Cocktail
Absolut Peach Peach Schnapps X Rated Fusion Sprite Pineapple Juice
Mix the liqueurs and pineapple together. Shake and pour in martini glass. Splash with Sprite. Garnish with orange slice. 46 • VIP
⁄3 Infused Cucumber Grey Goose Vodka ⁄3 Simple syrup Ice Shake Slice of Cucumber
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Christina Blackwell, Bartender Equal parts of cranberry, pineapple and orange juice Serve over ice with cherry and slice of orange.
Cucumber Martini
FavOrite SuMMer DRINKS
GRILL 83
ITTA BENA
83 Madison Ave Memphis, TN 38103-2137 (901) 333-1224 www.grill83.com
145 Beale St Memphis, TN 38103-3713 (901) 578-3031 www.bbkingclubs.com
Tracy Watkins (B.B. King’s Blues Club) & Ashley Hooppaw (Itta Bena)
Grill 83 Mixologist Jim Marshall
Brazilian Breeze Grill 83 Sparkling Cosmo
Grill 83 Sparkling Cosmo Jim Marshall 1.5 oz 1.5 oz Splash 1 oz
Brazilian Breeze Ashley Hooppaw, Bartender
Belvedere Vodka Cointreau Fresh Lime Juice Cranberry Juice
1 ounce Grey Goose Pear 1 ounce Peach Schnapps Splash of pineapple juice Sparkling Summer Delight Lightly float grenadine Shake above ingredients over ice – strain into glass over skewer of Strawberry, Lime Shaken with ice, strain into a martini glass and Blackberry. Fill remainder of glass with Louis Roederer “Brut Premier” Sparkling Wine and let the bubbles tickle your nose as the hot day fades away… Cherry Mint Mojito
Sparkling Summer Delight Jim Marshall 3 oz 3 oz 3 oz
Cranberry Juice Fresh Pineapple Juice of Sprite
Mix together and pour over ice – garnish with fresh blueberries and wedge of pineapple.
Cherry Mint Mojito
Tracy Watkins, Bartender Muddle (crush): 2 limes 4 mint leaves 3 cherries Fill glass with ice, top with ginger ale and splash of grenadine. Garnish with mint leaves and a cherry. July/August 2009 • 47
PREP Program Marks 40th Year The Memphis PREP Program, founded in 1969 by Frances Hooks and Jed Dreifus, celebrated its 40th year of continuous operation with a recent reunion dinner at Rhodes College. Over 1,100 high school students from Memphis City Schools have been helped to achieve their potential through enriching summer experiences in the hallowed halls of some of our country's top prep schools, such as Andover, Exeter, and Choate for example. Carol Barnett is the program director.
PEOPLE & PLACES Little Italy Right Here at Home
Singing the Blues The Eric Hughes Band recently released its “Live on Beale” cd at a party at the Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale Street. The evening included a live performance by the band. www.EricHughesBand.com
LiVe on beALe
You didn't have to go to New York to experience the tastes, sights and sounds of Little Italy. It was all right here in Memphis at the Italian Festival (in its 20th year) in Marquette Park, some of the proceeds of which will help support Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. This community event always demonstrates the values of family, faith and fellowship in the Italian-American tradition for the benefit of the children of Holy Rosary Parish School. Cooking contests, grapestomping, live music, a wine garden, a bocce tournament, and cooking demonstrations were all part of this year's fun. Cathy Davis & Paul Galluzzi
Raychellet Williamson, Kimkea Harris, Fred Johnson & Jim Jalenak
Kristen Mattingly & Clayton Ellis
The Bassinette Set
Camilla & little Richard Brinner
Morgan & little Wells Westbrook
VIP Memphis recently attended a very special “launch”. It was a sip and see party at the Memphis Country Club to meet and greet two VIP babies: Master Richard Brinner and Master Wells Westbrook. Masses of gardenias and magnolias in silver julep cups and pitchers, tasty tea sandwiches and a hundred-year-old family bassinette set the tone for this elegant and joyous affair.
Huntin’ and Shootin’ at the Agricenter International
Eric Hughes, Robert Tooms & Laura Hughes
Helping “To Fix” Pet Homelessness The Mid-South Spay & Neuter Services (formerly the Animal Protection Association) held a fundraiser at the Madison Hotel recently to help this worthy non-profit organization reduce the community's unwanted pet population. Amy Kalkbrenner is the Executive Director of the organization. The ever-popular musical duo, Nora & Hank, provided the music.
Ducks Unlimited held its Waterfowl Hunters Party fundraiser at the Agricenter International. It was a great turnout to support this organization so dear to the hearts of devoted hunters in our Mississippi Flyway habitat. Attendees were encouraged to wear camouflage attire, but despite these cover-ups, they were more than happy to have their picture taken by VIP Memphis. Naturally the evening had a decidedly “male” flavor, but there were a number of brave females in attendance. Christopher Henderson and Jimbo Robinson did a great job in organizing the event. Jimbo Robinson & Christopher Henderson 48 • VIP
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Amy Kalkbrenner(front), Deborah Camp, Carol Word, Deborah Merino & Catherine Powers
Breakfast at Tiffany's Kicked off Summer Series The 2009 Summer Movie Series at the Orpheum has kicked off with that all time favorite, Breakfast at Tiffany's. The showing of this film classic was sponsored by Charlotte, the fabulous store in Germantown specializing in unique interchangeable jewelry. Audrey Hepburn aka Holly Golightly always went to Tiffany's when she was feeling depressed (“the mean reds”). We think that a trip to Charlotte would cheer anyone up!
Dr. Langsdon Launches FaceMD at Joseph VIP Memphis was privileged to attend the recent launch (with martinis of course) of FaceMD at Joseph in Laurelwood. This unique new organic skin care system has been designed for all skin types by Dr. Phillip R. Langsdon, Memphis' own famous facial plastic surgeon and UT professor. Shirley Wexner, Joseph's owner, told us that she had waited a long time “to find just the right organic skincare line.” Dr. Langsdon explained that his medically developed skin care program was the result of over 25 years of experience in facial cosmetic surgery, chemical peeling, topical skin treatment and research.
Joe Pizzirusso with Rhonda & Mark Hammond
Art for Theater Arts Sake at Playhouse The 32nd Annual Original Art Auction at Playhouse on the Square was a great fundraising event as always. Over 100 artists donated one-of-a-kind original artworks which were part of an all-day silent auction and an evening live auction.
Tanja Heeckt, Sarah Worden & Kim Thompson
Sandra Walker, Stephen Crump & Judy Hall
Shirley Wexner & Dr. Phillip Langsdon
Cristen Garrett Honored
Maven Ford & Haley Hanners
The River Oaks Garden Club held its May luncheon at Elfo’s Restaurant. The event honored its lovely Carnival Memphis Princess, Cristen Garrett.
Gift of Life Gala Honors Three The Gift of Life black tie gala 2009 to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee was held at the Holiday Inn, University of Memphis. The evening’s honorees were Michael Clary, Athletic DirectorRhodes College, Dr. Bettina Ault, Pediatric Nephrologist, Methodist- Le Bonheur and Joyce Thomas, Cummins Inc.
Joyce Thomas, Mike Clary & Dr. Bettina Ault
Debbie Binswanger, Cristen Garrett & Patti Callan
The Unpredictable Gallery: Art for Everyone Art Under a Hot Tin Roof opened recently at 117 S. Main on the corner of Gayoso and Main, next door to the Circa Restaurant. Kat Semrau, owner, stated that the gallery offers a broad variety of paintings, ceramics, sculpture and contemporary jewelry. Several events were held to celebrate its arrival on the Memphis arts scene, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a sneak and peek party, and an elegant evening reception. Located in a cleverly refurbished, century-old storefront, the gallery has a tin ceiling, antique architectural elements, shimmering concrete floors and unique, whimsical touches throughout. Southern Living magazine described the Art Under a Hot Tin Roof located in Jackson, TN as “The Unpredictable Gallery”; the Memphis version of the gallery is certainly no less. July/August 2009 • 49
FOr the lOve OF wiNe
In
Arthur’s Opinion… By Arthur Kahn
i
used to be a terrible label snob, which is the first cousin of the wine snob. Show me a LafiteRothschild or a properly pedigreed Puligny-Montrachet, maybe an Olivier LeFlaive or Etienne Sauzet, and I’m in full appreciation mode even before the bottles are opened. Oh, I’ve been disappointed plenty of times by big names — the wretched half-bottles of 2001 Pio Cesare Barolo, say, or the inexplicably and unforgivingly tannic 2001 Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon I had awhile back, both from prestigious producers and widely heralded “great vintages.” The vintages were great, but not all the blue-bloods seem to have made the cut. One would imagine that a person fortunate enough to taste thousands of wines a year — and to often engage in the corrective practice of blind tasting where the label isn’t revealed until afterwards — would be disabused of the bias toward prestige, reputation and even (let’s admit the awful truth) high-priced wines. After all, moderately priced wines like the ‘07 vintage of Septima Cabernet Sauvignon from Argentina ($14.99)
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On the other hand (if there’s a quintidigital member remaining and spellcheck allows me to exit the clause) a sort of proletarian, dare we say democratic, sense of contentment begins to suffuse through the synapses as the humble, $15 bottle shows its stuff when paired with the suitably blue collar fare I invariably pair it with: hamburgers, leftover pastas, Pete and Sam’s take-out (another instance of substance over form: the barbecue pizza, the spaghetti Caruso, the spinach on a good day, the sirloin-for-two medium rare, great at twice the price!) — well, the humble get to heaven, too. So, if wine heavyweights like Arthur can occasionally stoop to enjoy a moderately priced bottle, imagine what pleasure normal people will have when that bottle of Kenwood Merlot ($14.99) or Red Bicyclette Pinot Noir ($11.99) is matched with an elegant breast of veal stuffed with artichokes.
"it’s no fun to take home a $15 wine when a $50 bottle will do just as well!"
Memphis
often show as well as wines costing three times the price. The 2006 Hogue “Genesis” Cabernet from Washington State is another fine example of a wine combining a multiplicity of complementary aromas and flavors — this is what we mean when we call a wine complex — and structural elements (that would be the proper balance of tannin, acid and fruit) to lift its value well over the $14.99 price. And yet, Arthur cannot get past his inner snob. It’s no fun to take home a $15 wine when a $50 bottle will do just as well! It feels like I’ve bagged a good one when there’s a $40 FerrariCarano Cabernet in my briefcase (I know, your bottles arrive home in paper bags but there are some prerogatives that come with being Arthur) — and it’s a great, voluptuous and silky wine for sure — but there’s no triumphal entrance into the Arthur domiciliary quarters when I’m apprehended by my spouse with a “value wine” in my possession.
Postscript: Last night, with spouse out of town and the NBA final on tv, had a grass-fed steak and a half-bottle of ‘04 Chateau Cos’ D’Estournel ($73.99) whose ethereal layered fruit and supple texture outed the pseudo-proletarian Arthur in favor of the label snob crouching behind this very article.
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