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Contents
8
14
March 2009
20
Volume III • Number 6
EVENTS 8
Wine Women & Shoes was a Wow
10
Music’s Biggest Night on Beale
12
The Peabody goes Parisian for Heart Gala
14
It's a Red Tie Affair for Valentine's
16
Their Hearts Belong to Charity
18
Dining, Dancing, Delights at the Cirque du CMOM
FEATURES 37 Old + New
CookingHealthy 46 Chef John Bragg on the Art of Eating for Health and Pleasure
Uniquely artistic photographs of three fitness facilities around town– the Fogelman Downtown YMCA; the Memphis Jewish Community Center; and the Germantown Athletic Club
37
46 48 Chef Ben Adams Cooks Seared Sea Bass
20 Cyrano Production had Panache
51
and Much, Much More
VIPSports: Game. Set. Match. Memphis is in "Love" with Tennis
22 Bucks and Baritones 24 Memphi Mid-Winter Ball 26 Ennead, Luxor, and Ptah
51
held Carnival Coronations
28 Polar Bear Plunge 30 Japan is First to Open Consulate-General in Tennessee
30 Chef Windsor + Great Wines = a Winning Combination
31
Cellular South: There When it Counts
32 Foodies Feast to benefit UCP 34 Celebrity Waiters Rally for Radiothon
4 • VIP
Memphis
VIPWellness 42 Is Pilates Right for You? by Cindy Qualls
43 Page Robbins Gives Respite to Caregivers by Herbert Ann Krisle
44 Yoga as a Remedy for Life in the Fast Lane by Lou Hoyt
45 VIPBeauty – Giving Thin Hair a Fat Chance to Look Good by Sheila Zaricor-Wilson
REGULARS 6 Letter from the Editor 35 Opening Doors: by Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors
49 For the Love of Wine 56 People and Places 58 Just Out of the Spotlight, the Movie Lady reports
LEttEr From the Editor
PUBLISHER Kat Semrau
he Regions Morgan Keegan Championships and the Cellular South Cup tennis tournaments at the Racquet Club certainly captured our attention recently as demonstrated by our fabulous cover and montage of photographs under the title “Game. Set. Match.---Memphis is in ‘Love’ with Tennis.” Our mantra for warmer weather is “sports, wellness and beauty,” as we emerge from the indoors and venture outside to play. Yoga and pilates have kept some of us “well” throughout the winter. You will be inspired by how one of Memphis’s most beloved VIPs, yoga teacher, Lou Hoyt, started on her personal path to total wellness. Also, Cindy Qualls of Germantown Athletic Club has written an article highlighting all the benefits that Pilates has to offer, and Sheila Zaricor-Wilson of Master Design Salon and Wellness Studio is back again this month to offer advice on warding off hair loss. Chef John Bragg of Circa restaurant has contributed an article on how one can eat for health and pleasure (he maintains that the two are not mutually exclusive), as well as a recipe for grilled Mahi Mahi, and Ben Adams of Napa Café has given us his recipe for pan-seared sea bass. Our Old + New photographic feature this month focuses on three different fitness facilities around town, namely the Fogelman Downtown YMCA, the Memphis Jewish Community Center, and the Germantown Athletic Club. Lastly in keeping with our wellness theme, Herbert Ann Krisle, Executive Director of Page Robbins Adult Day Care Center in Collierville, has written about the respite that her excellent facility gives to both caregivers and those afflicted with long-term debilitating illnesses. As always, February brought with it a lot of great events to cover, including several Carnival Memphis Grand Krewe coronations and Memphi’s mid-winter ball. We went to Theatre Memphis to attend the opening night reception for Cyrano de Bergerac and to The Children’s Museum for their gala fundraiser. There were heart-themed parties as well, including the Red Cross Red Tie Gala, the Works of Heart to benefit the Child Advocacy Center and the American Heart Association’s Heart Gala. One of the most unique and fun parties of the month was the irresistible Wine, Women and Shoes event at the Botanic Garden, and let’s all hope it will return next year.
T
About the Cover
Of course as always Arthur on Wine is included this month as is Linn Sitler’s Just Out of the Spotlight column in which she tells of her official travels to Nashville and Berlin. It is also my great Anne Cunningham O’Neill pleasure to welcome Coleman-Etter, Fontaine to our VIP Memphis family. Fontaine Taylor’s article, “In the Beginning,” gives us a bit of history on her old and respected real estate firm, and in the future we will be bringing you monthly columns written by individual agents of the company under the heading, “Opening Doors.” Now to get back to tennis for a moment. My father’s favorite photo of my mother, which he kept on his dresser for 40 years, was a picture of her taken through the strings of a tennis racquet. I decided to copy this idea with myself as the subject posing behind my mother’s old Wilson “Billie Jean King” racquet. My mother and father met in 1946 on the tennis courts of Florida’s Boca Raton Club, and through the years my dad, Hugh Cunningham, played tennis every day that weather permitted at the Memphis Country Club. It was his great pleasure to joke with and encourage a number of young players (you know who you are--- Barham, John, Lance, Bruce, Chuck etc.), who were good friends of my brother David, himself a fabulous tennis player. As for myself, I have played in my time but am now only an enthusiastic bystander, and for example I had the privilege of watching Andy Roddick win the U.S. Open in 2003 from the First Tennessee box at Flushing Meadows, New York. In closing, I will just say to everyone, be well, go outside, kick up your heels and have a great March.
Anne Our "split screen" cover is pure make-believe. Andrea Zucker's photographs show Cellular South Cup tournament winner Victoria Azarenka of Bulgaria across a lime green net from Regions Morgan Keegan Championships winner Andy Roddick of the U.S. While this did not, of course, happen in reality, we decided to take a little artistic license to pay tribute to these great tennis players. Roddick won in straight sets against Radek Stepanek (the Czech Republic), which was Roddick's second win in Memphis. Azarenka won against Caroline Wozniacki (Denmark), who was both the top seed and her good friend. Wozniacki was gracious in defeat, saying of her opponent, "She just played a great match. There wasn't too much I could do."
6 • VIP
Memphis
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 Melvin Little Jason Watson Ellen E. Westbrook
WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Jay Adkins Sarah Christine Bolton Lyda Kay Ferree Evarist O’Neill Mark O. Ramirez Christina Trask Andrea Zucker
Distribution Terry Lay
VIP MEMPHIS MAGAZINE Suite 212 4711 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38117 901.766.2999 901.766.2977 (fax) memphis@vipmag.com www.vipmag.com
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VIPEvent
Wine Women & Shoes was a Wow
T
he name of this event has a nice ring to it, and sure enough there were a lot of lovely women, fashionable shoes and amazing Napa Valley wines at the Sip-n-Shop Marketplace at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Shoes from a number of prestigious area shops were featured, including from Joseph, the Shoe Salon at Oak Hall, Peria and Indigo, among others, and wines from 11 vintners were being offered. A silent auction and a fabulous shoe fashion show added to the fun. The proceeds from this unique girls’ night out fundraiser went to benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center, and VIP Memphis was proud to be one of the contributors.F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Becca Griffith, Elise Veazey & Rachel McAteer 8 • VIP Memphis
Shirley Wexner
Denetta Craig & Sue Goodrum
Kathy Mooney & Jill Crocker
Kelly Stone, Angelo Anastasio & Sarah Bratton
Brandee Loving & Andrea Eberly
Gail Kimball & Glenna Flautt
Michelle Scott, Michael Donahue & Debra Sledd
Lynne Maples & Kembree Darakshani
Patricia Wilson & Julia O'Keefe March 2009 • 9
VIPEvent
Music’s Biggest Night on Beale
A
telecast party for the 51st annual GRAMMY awards was held at the Hard Rock Cafe on Beale Street to help celebrate the amazing achievements of the music community. Presented by the Memphis chapter of the Recording Academy, this event was the next best thing to being in Los Angeles. The admission price included live music with FreeWorld and Jim Dickinson, an open bar, dinner buffet and the official GRAMMY program book, which was chock full of colorful pictures and profiles of this year's talented nominees. It made mention, too, of the opening of the GRAMMY Museum last December which brings a state-of-the-art new cultural institution to LA. Last but not least, VIP Memphis offers sincere congratulations to Al Green and BB King for their GRAMMY wins. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Joshua Murrell & Brenda Lowry
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Jessica Vanderpool, Zachary Goraczewski, Ashley Szostak & Marina Miller March 2009 • 11
VIPEvent
Peabody goes Parisian for Heart Gala The
A
n Evening in Paris was the theme of the American Heart Association's elegant 33rd annual Memphis Heart Gala, which was held at The Peabody Hotel in February. The event was chaired by Sherry Aaholm, Executive Vice President of Information Technology at FedEx Services, and presented by FedEx Corporation. FM 100 DJ and emcee Ron Olson ushered in the evening whose featured headliners were The Memphis Jazz Orchestra and special guests Joyce Cobb, Susan Marshall and Tom Prestigiacomo. Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster Band capped off the evening. There was a live auction and a silent auction sponsored by Verizon Wireless, and a new element of the gala was an online auction prior to the evening's festivities, with many luxury items including jewelry from Mednikow. The 2009 Big Heart Award honoring community leaders who have made significant contributions in the fight against heart disease and stroke went to Mark George, CEO/President of Intermodal Cartage Company. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Marcy Vickery & Robyn James 12 • VIP Memphis
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Sherry & Steve Aaholm
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Brittany Montgomery & Beth Clawson
Michelle Huggins, Dustin Keith & Carol Ann Jordan
Emily Capadalis & Adam Ferguson
March 2009 • 13
VIPEvent
It's a red tie Affair for Valentine's IP Memphis was honored to step up and receive a special plaque for being a sponsor for the first annual Red Tie Affair Gala organized by the Mid-South Chapter of the American Red Cross. Held at Harrah’s Event Center on Valentine’s Day, it was a red and white-themed evening of hearts and roses. Upon entering, guests were dazzled by a dramatic, specially-designed sculpted outline of a heart dangling from the ceiling. The entertainment kicked
V
off with the Main Street Jazz Orchestra, and then Joyce Cobb and Cool Heat took over for dancing after dinner. The emcree was Joe Birch, and the auctioneers for the live auction were Jeff and Valerie Morris. The highest bidders took home tickets for fabulous trips including to the Masters Golf tournament in Augusta, as well as to New York, Paris, Germany and Canada. The presenting sponsor of the event was Harrah's Tunica and VIP Memphis's good friend,
Bruce Orpet of Cellular South, was a co-chair. In thanking him, one speaker said that we were all in “Orpet’s Orbit” for the night. Guests were reminded of all the Red Cross’s humanitarian work in the face of disaster, not the least of which was providing immediate assistance to people who had lost their homes to fire. Proceeds from the evening were to benefit the Red Cross in Northwest, Mississippi.F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Andie & Bruce Orpet
Bob & Dianne Laster
Mike & Marion Donohoe
14 • VIP Memphis
Ricky & Florence Busey
Frank Allen & Susan Cox
Alisa Ellis & Jeremiah McMahon
Gayl Baker & John Jenkins
Patrick Elkins & Maggie Leone
Tommy & Michele Henley
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March 2009 • 15
VIPEvent
their Hearts Belong to Charity
T Maritza Davila & Luida Ramirez-Lynch
he 17th Annual Works of Heart, Valentine Auction and Exhibit featured heart-themed artwork from 100 top artists, known as “2009 Heartists.” The event was held at the Memphis College of Art in Overton Park, and all proceeds went to benefit the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. The art, which as the name suggests, is inspired by a plain piece of wood in the shape of a
Elaina Hogan & Alissa Nesbitt
Robin Salant, Murray Riss & Beryl Wright
Voted “Top 10 Party of the Year”
heart, was on display to the public during the week prior to the auction. The chair of the organizing committee was Murray Riss, well-known photographer, who did––as always–– a fantastic job, with the help of many dedicated volunteers who contributed greatly to the success of this popular and very worthwhile event.F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Ken McCown, Sara Hall, George Madon & Ellen Klyce
catch spring fever at
brooks uncorked friday, april 10 7 pm
· wine tasting of over 50 wines
$150 per person
· silent auction · live music · open bar · exotic dinner buffet by chefs Wally Joe and Andrew Adams
sponsored by
Sponsors: Acura of Memphis · Pinnacle Airlines Corp. · Stanford Private Wealth Management · The Parker Family, in memory of Tony M. Parker, Sr. · Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar · Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs · David Lusk Gallery · Buster’s Liquors & Wines · Hart Davis Hart Wine Co. · Oak Hall · Memphis Magazine · Paulsen Printing · RAM Entertainment · Thomas Chu, M.D. · Athens Distributing Co. of Tennessee · Delta Wholesale Liquors · Southwestern Beverage Distributing · Star Distributors · United Liquors · The Victor L. Robilio Company · VIP Memphis Magazine · DCI Gallery · Michael Carpenter & Switch Creative · Graphic Systems, Inc.
to purchase tickets, visit www.theartofgoodtaste.org or call 544.6209 16 • VIP Memphis
March 2009 • 17
VIPEvent
Dining, Dancing, Delights at the Cirque du CMOM
t
he Cirque du CMOM presented by the Children's Museum of Memphis was a huge success and the biggest fundraiser the museum has had in ten years. The event drew more than 500 people and 160 auction items were up for bid. Hors d'oeuvres were provided by Chef Cullen Kent of Cafe Society and guests danced to the beat of DJ Mark Anderson & His Party Train. The famous big toy auction was a highlight of the event. Lucia Heros was party chairman. The proceeds of the party will go towards fulfilling the museum's mission "to create memorable learning experiences through the joy of play in hands-on exhibits and programs." F Photography by Christina Trask
Georgia Pettey & Dr. Nick Gavrizi
Mary Trotz, Courtenay McAllister & Jean Johnston 18 • VIP Memphis
William Overton & Johanna Ellis
Lucia Heros & Caren Nichol
Daniel Walker & Leah Massee
Will Sharp & Meg Patton
Wendy Smith & Rob Carson
Dan Springer with Jessica & Jason Hackett
Marla & Patrick Pennington
Misty & James Stamper
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March 2009 • 19
VIPEvent
Cyrano Production had Panache and Much, Much More
performed anywhere. Opening night at Theatre Memphis was a gala affair with a sell-out crowd thrilling to the battle scenes and tender romantic moments in this theatrical co-production between Theatre Memphis and the University of Memphis. Directed by Robert Hetherington, who chairs the de-
partment of theater and dance at the university, this is a play whose success rises and falls on the shoulders of the actor playing Cyrano, the poet-soldier at the heart of the story. In this production, there are no words to describe the amazing talents of Jerre Dye, who starred as Cyrano, as well as those of Claire Hayner (Roxane) and all the other superb members of the supporting cast. The fabulous costumes were by André Bruce Ward. There was a gala reception following the play. Furthermore that same evening beforehand, Theatre Memphis's "Dramatis Personae" sculpture garden was designated as a Public Art Heritage Site by the
Debbie Litch & André Bruce Ward
Claire Hayner & Chris McCollum
I
f you are reading this now, you might have
missed the opportunity to see one of
the most fabulous productions of Edmond Rostand's Cyrano de Bergerac
Dabney Coors & John Smeriglio
20 • VIP Memphis
John Weeden & Lyle Wardlaw
UrbanArt Commission. Created by artist Lawrence Anthony and installed in 1979, these statues which capture and caricature iconic theatrical personages, were funded by the Hubert and Stella Menke Family with the assistance of a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. John Weeden, Executive Director of UrbanArt was present for the designation and champagne toast. As always the lovely and talented Debbie Litch, Executive Producer of Theatre Memphis, was ever-present throughout the evening making guests feel welcome with her enthusiasm and warmth. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Bennett Wood, Stella Menke & Dory Lerner
Greg & Carol Fletcher with Ann & Gene Henson
March 2009 • 21
VIPEvent
Bucks and Baritones O pera Memphis hosted its annual Wild Game Dinner at the Holiday Inn at the University of Memphis. As the largest fundraiser for the organization, it directly supports efforts to provide music education to thousands of children throughout the MidSouth. Opera patrons, politicians, and local hunters alike gathered to eat, drink, celebrate and support the opera at this aptly named "Bucks and Baritones" 2009 dinner. The
guests' outfits ranged from the dressy to casual to very appropriate hunting attire. Live and silent auctions offered a number of exciting items from local stores and restaurants, and even included an Opera Memphis walkon role. The wild game feast itself was prepared by Chef Edward Nowakowski and his staff and as you can imagine such dishes as antelope stew and venison loin were featured on the menu. Elmo and the Shades provided the
entertainment. Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton was the honorary chairman of the event, and he attended with his wife, Ruby and grandson. The evening's auctioneer and very notable guest was none other than Speaker of the Senate and Lieutenant Governor of Tennessee, Ron Ramsey. He was sporting cowboy boots for the themed occasion---but then he always wears them, he says. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Allison Merritt & Sarah Squire
Dr. Nancy Chase with Kallen Esperian
Robert & Susan Philips
Glen & Wanda Miller 22 • VIP Memphis
Jaime Ericson & Jason Dietz
Laurie Brown, Joyce Lower & Holland Tudor
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VIPEvent
Memphi Mid-Winter Ball t
he secret is finally out. The six Memphi duchesses for Carnival Memphis 2009 were
Chantal Johnson, Sue Matthews, Ginger Collier, Trish Ring, Chey Widdop & Lisa Roberts
announced at the Grand Krewe's elegant Mid-Winter Ball. The Memphis Country Club was decorated with a rich, red orientalist theme, with the entry hall being ap-
pointed with bamboo, origami butterflies, cranes and goldfish. The tables in the beautiful dining room were draped with red Chinese silk brocade with black accents. Close to 300 partygoers in elegant attire filled the club, and they were received upon entering by Ainslie Todd, the outgoing queen of Memphi and other Krewe officials. F
Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Susan Thompson & Ainslie Todd
Marilyn & Philip Seaton
Nancy & Jim Brooks
Martin Blakely & Cindy Gambrell
24 • VIP Memphis
Kim & Johnny Pitts
Michael & Joanie Lightman
Cecil & Nancy Lamberson
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March 2009 • 25
VIPEvents Several of the Carnival Memphis Grand Krewes recently held coronations. Photography by Christina Trask
Ennead @the Holiday Inn at UofM
Luxor @ the Esplanade
Queen McKay Clark & King Jim Driscoll
Judy & Bubba Winkler
Audrey McCleney & Queen Lanetta Lanier
Robert & Dr. Susie Sargent
Ritt Fraser with Sandra Hurley
Kathy Jacobs & Sara Qualls
Janet Dodson & Jerry Michie
Jennifer & King Don Lasseter
John & Wanda Barzizza
Duchess Barbara & Duke Kevin Bentley
Donna Mikeal, Belinda Pittman, Ellen Patrick & Shirley Wyatt 26 • VIP Memphis
Ptah @ Germantown Athletic Club
Bogey & Queen T. J. Searcy
Steve & Lisa Monaghan
Tommy & Phyllis Pollard
Barbara Benstein & Kristi Keller
Charles & Mary Stewart
Margie & Mel Watson March 2009 • 27
VIPEvent
Polar Bear Plunge
Beth Ducrest, Hallie Gail Crook, David Ducrest, Ron Wong & Noel Crook
V
IP Memphis photographer Mark O. Ramirez recently joined the throngs of people at Mud Island River Park who were attending the 10th Annual Polar Bear Plunge and 3rd Annual Chili Cook-Off to benefit the Special Olympics. While we must confess that he did not literally jump into the Mississippi River for the cause, he did however join other media representatives in hopping aboard a cabin cruiser which motored them to a photographic vantage point on the chilly waters. You can bet that this was enough excitement for him, although some 200 "plungers" did in fact rise to the challenge. All in all it was a great day of family fun. Lisa M. Taylor, Area Director of Special Olympics of Greater Memphis, who you could call the keeper of the flame, tells us that the mission of her organization is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition, at no cost to the athlete or their family, in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. You may be interested to note that the concept of Special Olympics was born in 1962 when Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a day camp for people with these kinds of disabilities at her home, and later the global movement took off in 1968.F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Lisa Taylor & Sloane Taylor
Cindy, Mike & Scott Brown 28 • VIP Memphis
P.J. Bass & Jenna Faircloth
Balmoral Orioles participate in the “Polar Bear Plunge”
Sarah Bishop, Julie Miller, Laura Peacock & Theresa Adams
Brian Lurie
Andria & Matt Lum
McDonald Murrmann Women’s Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of Helen S. Lee, MD to our practice. • Practicing physician in obstetrics and gynecology for the last 10 years. • Speaks both Korean and Spanish (and of course, English). • Voted a “Top Doctor” by the San Diego County Medical Society. Helen S. Lee, MD
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3534 Forrest • Memphis 901.767.6093 • www.easternsunyoga.com March 2009 • 29
VIPEvents
Japan is First to Open Consulate-General in Tennessee
T
he Greater Memphis Chamber, the Japanese Traders & Manufacturers Association of Memphis and the Japanese American Society of Tennessee hosted a welcome reception recently to honor Consul General Hiroshi Sato of the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville. The reception was held at the Fogelman Executive Conference Center at the University of Memphis, and Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton, Greater Memphis Chamber President & CEO John Moore and Dr. Shirley Raines, President of the University of Memphis, were among those who gathered to welcome Consul General Sato. The big news is that when Consul General Sato began serving in Nashville last October, Japan became the first and only country to open a consulate-general in the State of Tennessee. Consul General Sato has previously served his Government in Washington D.C., Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Egypt, in New York and at the United Nations, and more recently he held the post of Deputy ConsulGeneral in Hong Kong. For me personally, having worked in the world of diplomacy at the United Nations in New York City for 25 years, this is a really important story. What's more, my daughter studied Japanese for a number of years at the UN International School and spent a summer in Japan with the Youth for Understanding educational exchange program. The kindness and generosity of the Japanese people and the traditions and the beauty of the country (she climbed Mt. Fuji) were overwhelming to her, and she has since returned twice. We at VIP Memphis magazine join with the other citizens of this State in proudly welcoming Consul General and Mrs. Sato to Tennessee. We are truly honored. F Story by Anne Cunningham O'Neill
John Moore
Mayor AC Wharton, Consul General Hiroshi Sato, Mrs. Sato & Dr. Shirley Raines
Chef Windsor + Great Wines =
a Winning Combination
C
hef Chris Windsor at The Madison Hotel's Grill 83 prepared a wonderful dinner recently to coincide with the Wine, Women and Shoes event (see page 8) which brought eleven Napa Valley CA vintners into town. Among these was Emily Barouch of Titus Vineyards who presented the wines that were paired with Chef Windsor's outstanding meal. The menu was absolutely to die for and included seared scallops, braised endive and saffron cream sauce, paired with Titus Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, 2005, and braised short ribs with baby roasted beets, paired with Titus Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2005. This was a party that just would not quit, as guests gathered around the piano in the lobby of the Madison for a lively postprandial sing-along. Singing for their supper perhaps? F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Darlene Pruett & Mike Whitfield
Jim Zasoski, Josh Spotts & Buddy Gaynor 30 • VIP
Memphis
Debra Sledd, Emily Barouch & Daniel Sledd
Susan Arney, Leigh Shockey & Beth Flanagan
Cellular South: There When it Counts
C
ellular South recently awarded a $10,000 grand prize to the winner of its "Your Network--Your Stories" customer video contest. Kris Steward won top honors for "Helping us Help You." Also awarded was a $2,000 second place prize to Betty Pinegar for "Cellular South Hikers" and a $1,000 third place prize to "There When It Counts". The 65 submissions set participation records for a video contest. The awards were presented at a reception at Cellular South's retail store on North Germantown Parkway. Kevin Kane, President and CEO of the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau, addressed the group and praised Cellular South for the company's many initiatives in giving back to the community. He also pointed out the fact that wherever he travelled, Cellular South "never let him down.” The winning videos, which were screened for the party guests, also reinforced this point with great imagination and humor. Jim Richmond, Director of Corporate Communications, also spoke. Maney and Riley from the morning show on Q107.5 were on hand at the party, as was Councilman Myron Lowery, who was just back in town from the presidential inauguration. F photography by Evarist O'Neill
Bruce Orpet & Kevin Kane
Kris Steward, grand prize winner “ Helping us Help You”
I heard that a contemporary jewelry and art gallery is opening in downtown Memphis. A tin ceiling already exists in a historic building on Main Street in Memphis just like the Art under a Hot Tin Roof in Jackson, Tennessee. Rumor has it that the Memphis gallery will open in April. Spread the word!
contemporary jewelry and art gallery
Sherman Dodd, third place for “ There When It Counts”
Carol Chumney Law Firm 901 844.7141 901 537.7440 (fax) 5050 Poplar Avenue, Ste. 2400 Memphis, Tennessee carolchumney@aol.com Jim Richmond presents second place prize to actors in “Cellular South Hikers” March 2009 • 31
VIPEvent
Foodies Feast to benefit
UCP
H
undreds of guests gathered at the Holiday Inn at the University of Memphis recently to watch some of our area’s top chefs take center stage to demonstrate their own special techniques at the United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South’s fundraiser, UCP 3 Course Feast. The participating chefs prepared a sampling of their signature appetizers, entrees and desserts which the partygoers had the privilege of “feasting” upon in every corner of the room. Chef John Bragg of Circa was the host of the entire evening, which included a silent auction and a “silver spatulas” awards ceremony. F Photography by Christina Trask
Sophie Anthony & Jennifer Himes
Amanda Garrigan, Scott Seal & Carol Culpepper
Laurie Heinz & Jerry Taylor
Haley Parkerr & Chris Kirtley 32 • VIP
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Melissa & Jeffrey Lee
Kelly Emerton & Greg Rommel
Connie Tichy & Angela English
Liz Langston & Katherine Simmons
Page McMullen & David Sears
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Annie Selke Collection featuring Pine Cone Hill Fabrics by Vanguard Furniture...
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VIPEvent
Celebrity Waiters Rally for Radiothon
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he 18th Annual ROCK 103 Ronald McDonald House Radiothon is being held on March 12-13. To get the ball rolling and kick off this event, Bosco's Squared recently hosted Celebrity Waiters Night. Serving specials such as "Radiothon brew" and cheeseburger pizza, some of Memphis's favorite celebrities including Markova Reed, Tom Dees, Bonny Kinney, Cameron Harper and many more took part in the evening's fun.F Photography by Christina Trask
Michelle Hooks & Jared Tankersley with Muley the Mule
Jackie Doyle & Sarah Lacy
Melody Meadows & Luca Lindner
Zellner Brown, Markova Reed & Jamal Cherry Kris Anderson & Bonny Kinney
Brother Doug, Ric & Bad Dog of ROCK 103 34 â&#x20AC;˘ VIP
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Joseph & Brandy Martin
Bob, Jordan & Susan Proctor
OpeningDoors
In the Beginning
By Fontaine Taylor
Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors is proud to be a part of the VIP Memphis family. Each month one of our agents will write an article on real estate from differing perspectives. I was selected to submit the first article and will begin with a bit of background on exactly who we are. n 1951 Majorie Coleman and Fran Etter were at a party and the guests were discussing real estate. An uncle of Majorie’s, William Robinson, and his partner Oliver Cobb were in the process of developing some land in Southwest Shelby Country called Coro Lake. Majorie said that she and Fran would like to sell the property for them. Being the go-getters that they were, they obtained their real estate license ---and the listing. Majorie described their new listing as “nothing but wilderness.” Fran and Majorie, dressed as the good Southern ladies they were in stockings and heels, transported their prospective buyers around the land in a rowboat equipped with a rattlesnake bite kit. Majorie said that she wanted her customers to see what their lot looked like from the water. They sold 30 lots in the first week. That was the beginning of Coleman-Etter.
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Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors has received many honors over the Majorie and Fran became members of the Board of Realtors, now known as the Memphis Area Association of Realtors, in 1953—which was a years for rendering exceptional service, as have our individual agents for exreal feat in itself. They were among the first women to belong, since as you ceptional sales. Majorie and Fran were inducted into the Entrepreneur’s Socan appreciate, there was a policy at that time that applicants who were con- ciety and were charter members of the Multi Million Dollar Club. The sidered part-time in the real estate industry, were denied membership. By a company has received two awards for excellence in real estate from Carnival consent decree in 1971, this policy was changed, but the membership com- Memphis---one in 1993 and again in 2003. We have won awards for the Top mittee took great liberty in interpreting the definition of part-time. The mem- Twenty-five women in business for the last 12 years and the Top Ten Women bership application asked for the number and ages of the children of female in Business for two years. I am honored to have been a past President of the applicants, and there is evidence in MAAR’s minutes indicating that female Memphis Area Association of Realtors and am likewise proud to be the curapplicants of child-bearing age were approved for membership subject to ei- rent President of the Tennessee Association of Realtors. The company now has 31 agents who average ther their producing a letter verifying over 25 years of experience. Most are life members that they had arranged for adequate Fran and Majorie, dressed as the of the Multi Million Dollar Club, and many agents childcare or their having worked for one have multiple designations gained by taking many year under a Realtor and verification that good Southern ladies they were in hours of classes on topics related to the real estate they could commit fulltime to real esstockings and heels, transported their industry. As a company, we constantly review tate. Otherwise, they were out of luck prospective buyers around the changes in the market and update ourselves on issues and membership was denied. This policy that affect the industry so that we are better inwas strictly enforced and well-known in land in a rowboat equipped with formed to better serve our clients. We have agents the industry, and thereby many females a rattlesnake bite kit. licensed in Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi. were discouraged from applying. The agents at our company are unique in the I was a single mother of three children and wanted to have a rewarding career. With my past experience in fact that they work so closely together to help each other succeed. We like banking, accounting, property management and renovation, I decided that to say that when you hire one of us, you have hired all of us. We are comselling real estate was tailor made for my background and was privileged to mitted to our clients and to fulfilling their needs in the most professional manjoin the company in 1983 as an agent. From the outset, it was clear that Ma- ner. Our goal is always a successful and trouble-free transaction. jorie and Fran were busy selling, and I asked if I could start planning the meet- Compliments are routinely received from closing attorneys on our profesings and give a bit more structure to the business. They agreed, but with the sionalism, our dedication to our clients and the high quality of our paperwork. understanding that it would be “on my own time.” Two years later, I bought We really care for our clients and feel that “your problems are our probin as a partner and became sole owner in 1987, and believe me I deserved a lems.” It has been such fun and very rewarding for me to see the positive PhD in negotiations for working out this deal because these ladies were exchanges in the industry. We all now have state of the art cell phones that keep perts in their field. Coleman-Etter, Fontaine was thus born. Times have really changed. Apart from the obvious increased career us connected 24/7 and computers, although I have to confess some of us are opportunities for women, when I began selling, I carried around carbon paper better than others in using them. The listing information can be consulted to make copies of the contracts. The paper would rub off on our clothes and from anywhere in the world with multiple pictures of the homes and their our hands were always blue. The office had one multiple listing computer interiors and exteriors. Changes to the listing information are instantaneous. that printed with dots on a continuous roll of thermal paper and multiple list- Clients call with lists of homes to see which they have discovered on the Inings were published in a book that came out every two weeks and was de- ternet. Most of our correspondence is now done by e-mail, and we are able livered to the respective offices. There were precious few telephones in cars, to scan in documents to send to our clients. and if you were lucky enough to have one, it was installed with a big box screwed to the front seat floor, a box in the trunk to receive the signals and Best of all is there is no more carbon paper! Now an exterior antenna on the back window. Most agents just kept a roll of quarthat’s what I call progress .F ters in their cars to use a public pay phone to make or change an appointment. Thankfully enhanced technology has changed all this.
Fontaine Taylor
“
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Majorie Coleman
Fran Etter
March 2009 • 35
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Photography by Jay Adkins
Old+NEW he theme is “wellness” in this month’s Old + New photographic section. We focus on three different facilities in our area that all offer the equipment and programs necessary to help you achieve a state of optimal health and fitness. The downtown YMCA opened a hundred years ago in 1909, and President Taft along with 27 Governors dedicated it in a formal ceremony on October 27th of that year. We are told by Pete Shattuck, Executive Director of the YMCA, that Madison Avenue was paved especially for this visit. It so happened that this august group of governors was travelling to New Orleans for a conference and stopped en route in Mem-
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FOGELMAN DOWNTOWN YMCA MEMPHIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER GERMANTOWN ATHLETIC CLUB
phis for the occasion. Many years later, the Y was renovated and re-opened in 1989 as the Louis T. Fogelman YMCA. Today it offers an indoor swimming pool, hot tubs, an aerobic studio, basketball court, three racquetball courts, a boxing room, massage therapy, and full-service fitness center. At the same time, vestiges of the past remain in some of the architectural elements, and the view of AutoZone Park from the 3rd floor sundeck is also pretty cool. Several months ago, the Memphis Jewish Community Center on Poplar opened a beautiful, modern Wellness Center. It is an 18,000 square foot renovated and expanded facility with new cardio equipment, free weights and strength training equipment.
There are three group exercise rooms and available classes include: Iron Core, Yoga with Props, Pilates, Coreball, and Indoor Cycle. The center also has an Olympic-sized indoor pool and outdoor family aquatic park, soccer fields, and a covered sports pavilion. From its inception in 1990, the Germantown Athletic Club has been committed to the health and wellbeing of the mind, body and spirit of its members and the community. Located on Exeter Road, the club offers numerous fitness and aquatic facilities, specialized classes, top-of-the-line equipment, and personal training options including pilates and yoga. It also offers rental space in its 8,000 square foot Great Hall for social and business occasions. F March 2009 • 37
Old+NEW
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YMCA
Photography by Jay Adkins
Photography by Jay Adkins
YMCA
Old+NEW
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Memphis Jewish Community Center
Photography by Andrea Zucker
Photography by Andrea Zucker
Germantown Athletic Club
Old+NEW
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VIPWellness
Is Pilates Right for You? VIP Memphis recently interviewed Cindy Qualls, certified Pilates personal trainer at Germantown Athletic Club Q: What piqued your interest in Pilates and eventually led you to become a Pilates instructor? A: My husband suffered with chronic back pain until he tried Pilates. He worked with a certified Pilates instructor, attended personal training sessions three days a week and his back pain was alleviated. While this was a great medical benefit for him, I was impressed by the physical benefits of his toned and sculpted body. That’s what led me to Pilates – I could learn to help those in pain while improving their physical fitness. Q: What are the benefits of Pilates versus other forms of exercise? A: The benefits of Pilates include increased flexibility, a stronger abdominal core and a long, lean body. Pilates is also beneficial to the brain – focus and concentration are required as the exercises work many muscle groups simultaneously. Other forms of exercise, such as weight lifting, running and cycling, build muscle and cardio endurance, but they don’t provide the benefits of lean muscle tone and increased flexibility.
Q: Why did you choose to have your Pilates studio at Germantown Athletic Club? A: People are what I enjoy most about instructing at Germantown Athletic Club. The Mat Pilates class participants are fun and hard-working, which makes my work atmosphere uplifting and positive. The Pilates personal training studio is bright and energizing and the Club’s staff is supportive, knowledgeable and quick to respond. The Club is centrally located and, with all of the recent improvements and the progressive-minded management, it made complete sense to locate the Pilates studio there – it’s been a great fit! F
For more information on Pilates personal training and Club membership, please contact Scarlet Jones, marketing coordinator at Germantown Athletic Club at (901) 757-7370 or visit the Club at 1801 Exeter Road in Germantown. Cindy Qualls trains with a client in the Pilates Studio
Q: Who would benefit by taking Pilates? A: Pilates offers more than 500 exercises, so there’s something for everyone! Pilates exercises quickly identify strengths and weaknesses in a person. Let’s say someone can’t touch his toes, but can easily perform 50 push-ups. In a Pilates session, a certified instructor and the client will work hard on flexibility and not upper body strengthening exercises. If someone has limited movement in his/her hips, back or shoulders, there are Pilates exercises that can improve movement with less pain. If another client is an avid golfer or runner, there are Pilates exercises to help lower a golf score or increase speed. Pilates truly is for everyone!
Cindy examines every exercise performed by clients to ensure proper form, breathing and intensity
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Q: What is the difference between Pilates personal training and Mat Pilates and where can I attend your class? A: The mat workout sequence is conducive to a group fitness class. Beginners and those advanced in Pilates attend and perform the exercises under the instruction of a certified Pilates instructor. I teach three Mat Pilates classes at Germantown Athletic Club from the 75 group fitness classes offered each week to Club members. While Mat Pilates classes are free to Club members, oneon-one and group Pilates personal training sessions using the High/Low Chair, Reformer and Cadillac are available to members and non-members for a fee.
Cindy utilizes the High/Low Combination Chair to strengthen and lengthen the legs, core and arms.
VIPWellness
Page Robbins Gives Respite to Caregivers VIP Memphis sat down recently with Herbert Ann Krisle, executive director of Page Robbins Adult Day Care Center who shared with us some of the many benefits of her facility.
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ull-time caregivers to someone with a long term debilitating illness such as Alzheimer’s disease or stroke are at a 67% greater risk of debilitating illness or early death than their non-caregiving counterparts, statistics show. Those odds are not good ones!
Page Robbins Adult Day Care Center is able to help even the odds for caregivers and provide a better quality of life for the one with dementia. Located near the corner of Houston Levee Road and Wolf River Boulevard where Germantown and Collierville join, a beautiful 10,000 square foot facility sits on two acres of land and was designed solely for the purpose of providing care to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory loss. The center is open weekdays from 7 am – 6 pm to allow those caregivers who work an opportunity to continue their career while caring for a loved one and
affords those who simply need a bit of a respite in caregiving to choose the hours during the day that best suits their needs. While adult day care as an option in care isn’t really new, most people are not aware of how beneficial it can be and how it postpones long term care placement, typically for 12 – 18 months. The days are scheduled very similarly to day care centers for children, but all of the activities are adult appropriate. “The individuals who come to us for care have led full and rich lives. They may not be able to remember their phone number or who brought them to the center that day, but they are treated with great dignity and respect and are treated as adults.” explained Ms. Krisle. “Every day, we do some form of music, art, exercise and reminiscing and then add things like cooking, gardening, woodworking, games and puzzles to round the day out. We have pet
therapy and multigenerational activities as well. We try to do ‘normal’ things like having newspapers available with coffee each morning. The ladies get their nails painted each week and the men have loved learning to play the Nintendo Wii!” Krisle continues. One of the major fund raisers … and friend raisers for this nonprofit organization is a show and auction of some of the participant artwork created over the year, called Art from the Heart of Page Robbins. “It is an amazing event, but the best is to see the looks of surprise on the faces of the guests who are simply in awe of the amazing art that has been created!” said Ms. Krisle. Client fees are kept affordable through donations and special fundraising events. Many caregivers question whether their loved one will ‘fit’ and enjoy this type of care. Ms. Krisle relates a story where individuals have thought they were at a
health club or the country club. What could be better than that? A place of belonging. A place where needs were met with extra special attention. A place where individuals feel productive and part of the society. And the caregiver gets to become part of society again while knowing their loved one is safe and happy. F
To learn more about Page Robbins and adult day care programs in general, visit www.pagerobbins.org or call 901.854.1200.
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VIPWellness
YOGA as a Remedy for Life in the Fast Lane... A Personal Reflection By Lou Hoyt
photography by Evarist O’Neill
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n 1980, I heard a small voice inside me say, “slow down.” As a single parent of two young daughters who owned and managed a new health food store and restaurant, I was moving way too fast to hear that warning and did not have the tools to combat the stress and pressure that I was under. Then, one afternoon a man who was new in town applied for a job with me as a waiter. He said that he was in Memphis to teach yoga. The small voice within me suddenly got louder, and I told him not only did he have the job, but also I would be his first student. I began teaching yoga in 1982. The next year, I had my first Iyengar yoga class in Nashville. I was married to a rolfer at the time, and I had become more aware of the value and importance of body alignment, the balance of strength and flexibility and tailoring yoga postures to fit the individual person to prevent injury. I realized that there was no such thing as “one size fits all” yoga, and that each person must proceed at his or her own pace. I began to travel around the United States to study with teachers who were longtime, experienced students of BKS Iyengar. I soon learned that the vast and ancient subject of yoga was far more than a physical pose or fitness workout. It was certainly the most difficult physical activity that I had ever done, having been a runner for 12 years and having biked, played tennis and taken strenuous exercise classes for years. What was different, too, was that I had to pay attention to the subtleties of what all the different parts of my body were doing. I began to understand that yoga was a more internalized practice, and as I pro-
gressed I became more aware of how I was feeling – physically, mentally and emotionally. Some yoga poses were clearly more mentally challenging, than physically and the emotional component surprised and intrigued me. I began to expand my study to the philosophy of yoga, namely the “Yoga Sutras” by Patanjali. When the student says “I want to feel more peaceful, and at ease with myself and live with more harmony in my life, the Sutras say: “Here’s a plan. Follow this eight-fold path of yoga.” It is not a religion, but rather a guideline for living to help each of us become more comfortable in our own skin, clearer in our thinking and more open and receptive to ourselves and to others. My physical practice of the poses has advanced through the years, but where I have made the most progress is within myself. The most tangible benefits that I have personally observed are the balancing effects of yoga, and the integration and awareness of the different parts of ourselves in a spiritual journey. I now have more moments of contentment, gratitude and tolerance and 44 • VIP
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am less reactive to life’s ups and downs and those things that I cannot control. Looking back, it has been a long but rewarding path from that time when I was an overwhelmed young woman to a more peaceful and joyful present. F
Editor’s Note: Lou Hoyt had the first yoga studio in Memphis which she established in 1987 as Eastern Sun Yoga. She provides instruction in classical yoga, adhering to the teaching of BKS Iyengar. Among other things, Iyengar, who turned 90 last December, developed the personalized teaching of yoga and the use of props such as blocks, bolsters, blankets and belts. Lou has travelled to India five times to study with the Iyengar family. Her studio is housed in a charming bungalow at 3534 Forrest. The ceiling inside was handpainted by artist Mary Cour Burrows, and Lou herself stenciled the borders and brought art from India to decorate the space. If you wish to stretch your body and your imagination, go to www.easternsunyoga.com or call 901-767-6093.
VIPBeauty Sheila Zaricor-Wilson on
Giving Thin Hair a Fat Chance to Look Good The advertisements for treatment of balding or hair loss in men can’t be missed. These ads might lead one to believe that hair loss is generally a man’s issue. However, the fact is that as many as two-thirds of all women experience hair loss at some point. The reality is that a certain amount of hair loss is normal---anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs daily. However, excessive hair loss and hair thinning indicates that something is not right. The causes of accelerated hair loss are very individual and depend on a complicated set of factors, which include any one or a combination of the following: genetics; stress and trauma; nutritional deficiencies and diets; health issues; side-effects of medications and environmental issues. While no one can claim to have the ultimate cure for hair loss (do not believe anyone who says they do), I believe everyone has many fundamental choices they can make to support natural hair growth where it counts. . . Maintenance of good internal health First of all, it is essential to maintain optimum overall internal health by: eating a balanced diet comprised of whole, protein rich foods; addressing vitamin intake and consulting your healthcare provider for hormonal and/or a medication check. Proper care of the scalp The scalp is just like your face. It does get dirty and needs to be cleansed more than once a week. While shampooing, be sure to massage and stimulate the scalp by sliding your fingers through the hair and getting directly on the scalp. Brush your hair vigorously daily. This will help to stimulate the blood flow and exfoliate the dead cells that tend to stifle the follicle and prevent hair growth. In addition, consult your hairstylist about scalp treatments that increase circulation by using high frequency and massage. Maintaining the internal integrity of the hair shaft
The hair shaft is the most abused part of the fibers we call our crowning glory. Over time, the external damage we inflict on the fibers daily by improper shampooing, blow-drying, and hot ironing will definitely cause the hair to become thinner. After every chemical process, a protein reconditioner is "a must" to keep the integrity of the hair strong. This is not a leave-in or put on/rinse off conditioner. These surface products do not penetrate the cortex and mend the matrix of the fiber like a keratin protein treatment. The hair is most easily damaged when it is wet, so never ever brush the hair when it is wet and make sure your hair is dry before going to bed. With a little knowledge, a lot of common sense and a few changes to your beauty routine, you can give thin hair a fat chance to look good! F
Sheila Zaricor-Wilson is owner of Master Design Salon & Wellness Studio at 5149 Wheelis Drive, telephone 901.685.2351. She is also a partner in a new venture, Crown Winery, which is located near Humboldt, Tennessee. One day she hopes to add a destination spa on the grounds, which would use grape seeds and extracts in skin-care procucts.
March 2009 • 45
COOkInGHEALTHY
THE ART OF EATING FOR HEALTH & PLEASURE Story by Chef John Bragg; Photo by Jay Adkins
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n Memphis, spring can often be felt in early March with the arrival of moderate temperatures and the much anticipated sightings of flowering quince and azalea buds. We Memphians happily celebrate the spring and there are few cities where spring burgeons as magically as it does in the River City (Paris in April, however, is without competition!). Spring also quickly brings out the skin revealing clothes—in Paris and in Memphis— and with that comes the frantic desire to eat healthier food and shed some weight. What the Parisians seem to know, though, is that in order to be healthy one does not have to consume fat free and tasteless food. The wantonly sybaritic French do not see a contradiction in eating for pleasure and eating for health. Having been transplanted from the University of Alabama to the Le Cordon Bleu culinary school and to working and living in France for a several years, I experienced firsthand the somewhat different approach to food from my Southern roots to the sophistication of France where food is revered for the pleasure it brings and also seen for what it is – simple sustenance from the
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good earth. In that way, my love of southern food and the love of French food are similar. I, like most true Southerners, love fried chicken, greasy burgers, and other fat laden specialties. I also learned, however, to hone my palate to the without-parallel cuisine of the French. French food is made with love and appreciation and also with the much-slandered foods, such as butter, oil, salt, and sugar. What I notice when in France is that processed foods are virtually non-existent and portions are smaller (my problem!). Fats are healthy fats, meat is typically not hormone laden and wine accompanies most meals after breakfast. Sugar substitutes are rare. Overindulgence is typically not a problem because the French tend to understand their food and appreciate a small taste of a properly made buttery and delicate croissant or the delicate taste of red mullet (rouget) cooked in an exquisite sauce that may contain butter, wine, salt and herbs. While France may be the land of cheese, wine and croissants, they do not have a problem with obesity. Even though we Americans are fixated with diets and weight in the United States,
obesity rates here are the highest of any other country. So, yes, we can eat with the voluptuousness of a true gourmet and also with the sensibilities of the health conscious American foodie. Most of what I do at Circa, for instance, is an attempt to mingle my sensible farm boy roots with my experience of living and working in France. I do believe that the use of butter, olive oil, wine and other “fattening” foods not only adds to the taste of the dishes but also to one’s general heath. By now we all know the benefits of olive oil as opposed to many other cooking oils. Garlic, too has its lofty place on the healthy table in regard to heart and cholesterol benefits. Wine, of course, has been a hero of health in study after study for years. I cannot get by without the use of salt which, in moderation and unless you have a particular type of hypertension, is the key to flavor in many dishes. And well, there is butter. That beautiful, creamy, sweet and magical product of the sacred cow. I guarantee that any chef with any following among foodies, uses butter and uses it with care and often with abandon. There are few substi-
tutes for the flavor and that silky richness that butter can bring to a dish. The beloved southern cook, Paula Deen, may go overboard with butter—and unfortunately sometimes with butter substitutes, but she also understands the inimitable and true taste it brings to food—whether it’s a southern plate or the French one. I offer no apologies for butter and I must admit, I sometimes have to sigh when a customer insists on a dish being prepared without it. In India, for instance, ghee (clarified butter) has been a staple, a symbol of purity and an offering to
their gods for over 3000 years. Butter is a source of vitamin A, selenium, lauric acid and anti-oxidants, among other beneficial properties. The Italians, the French and the Indians know what they are doing. Don’t fear the butter! I have offered a recipe here that demonstrates my approach to this philosophy that eating well does not mean boring and ascetical. And yes, it does contain butter along with the benefits of fish, olive oil, wine, fruit and peppers. Take a cue from the French and eat and be well.F
Grilled Mahi Mahi with Apple-Mango Salad (Serves 4)
Fish 4, six oz. filets of Fresh Mahi-Mahi Olive Oil Kosher Salt/White Pepper 1 Clove Finely Minced Fresh Garlic 1 Cup Dry White Wine 1 Tablespoons Butter Salad 1 ½ 1
Granny Smith Apple, Peeled and Diced Yellow Onion Diced Small Fresh Jalapeno (Remove Seeds, Finely Minced) Chopped Fresh Cilantro Roma Tomato, Seeded and Diced Celery Diced Mango Diced
3 Tablespoons 1 ½ Cup ½ Cup Juice of 3-4 Limes Salt/Pepper to taste
Preparation: Prepare the salad first, even a day before, and store in the refrigerator. Combine all the ingredients and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. For the Mahi-Mahi: This is a fish that works well on a grill, but can also be pan-seared and finished in the oven 1. Combine the white wine and butter in a small pan and warm together until butter is melted. 2. Season the fish with salt, pepper, garlic and olive oil 3. Place on a hot grill, skin side up and cook about 2 minutes per side, then turn over and repeat to make nice marks, finishing with the skin side down on the grill 4. Baste the fish between turns with the wine/butter mixture. 5. If you need to hold the fish for a few minutes before serving, pour a bit of the basting liquid over it and it will keep moist until you are ready to serve. Presentation: Plate this simply with the fish on a plate and a generous spoonful of the salad on top. Basmati Rice and Grilled Vegetables round out this fresh and light summer meal.
March 2009 • 47
COOkInGHEALTHY
SEARED SEA BASS SUITS A HEALTHY DIET Photo by Jay Adkins
Napa Café is pleased to welcome its new Chef, Ben Adams, who has provided VIP Memphis with one of his favorite fish recipes which is guaranteed to please the eye and the palate.
Pan Seared Sea Bass with braised red bell peppers, olives, and capers with a tomato saffron broth For the Broth 2 cloves of garlic 1 shallot 2 sprigs of thyme 2 cups diced tomatoes 4 cups chicken stock 1 pinch saffron (optional) For the pepper mixture 5 roasted red bell peppers ½ cup Kalamatta olives ¼ cup capers 1 6oz. 1 tbsp
piece of sea bass olive oil
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Directions 1. Season the sea bass with salt and pepper on both sides 2. Add the tbsp of olive oil to a skillet and put over medium heat. 3. Once pan is hot, sear the bass on both sides (2 minutes per side) or until golden brown. 4. Remove from pan and put on a sheet tray and bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes depending on thickness of the bass For the broth 1. Mince the shallot and garlic 2. Sauté in a pot with a tbsp of olive oil until garlic is roasted and shallots are translucent 3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken stock, thyme and saffron 4. Simmer for 15 minutes 5. Blend until smooth
Finishing 1. Warm the peppers, olives, and capers in the tomato broth 2. Season with salt and pepper 3. Add the mixture and the broth to the bottom of the bowl 4. Place Sea Bass on top
In
FOr THe lOVe OF WINE
Arthur’s Opinion…
By Arthur Kahn
s the Tennessee legislature meets this month, a minor item on its agenda is the proposal by the Grocers Association to permit wine sales in their locations. At first blush, we say, “Why not?” pointing to the numerous, progressive states that allow such sales. And we observe that the forces arrayed against progress are the usual greed-driven suspects, the wine wholesalers and retailers, like Arthur, whose interest – all specious law enforcement arguments aside – is purely, well, in specie. Before signing off on the bill, we may want to take the following under advisement:
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WINE SOLD IN GROCERIES
WINE SOLD IN WINE & LIQUOR STORES ONLY
1) All profits are expatriated (profits leave TN for home offices in Austin, Cincinnati and St. Louis, and for distribution to shareholders in 50 States).
1) All owners, by law, are TN residents (profits remain in the State where the owners pay for homes, schools, meals, goods and services, and pay taxes).
2) Non-profits lose enormous volume of event support from wine & liquor retailers and wholesalers as profit margins shrink (roughly same volume of wine but sold in 5 X the locations, reducing wholesalers; many retailers disappear altogether).
2) Grocery and convenience stores continue donations at today’s level (virtually nil) while wine & liquor wholesalers and retailers continue at same (high) level.
3) Numerous retail wine & liquor store closings, eliminating decent jobs which will not be replaced by grocery/ convenience store positions.
3) Virtually every wine & liquor store has an owner on the premises, and most stores offer health insurance and other benefits (Walmart and other big box store employees widely use Tenncare). 4) Excepting “cult” wines and wines allocated by wineries to restaurants (the “Cakebread effect”), the variety of wines offered in Memphis is impressive, limited only by what producers perceive to be the limited demand in this market.
4) Limited offerings at groceries, mass stackings of generic wines, private labels and (undisclosed) close-outs, with the same level of service that groceries currently provide. Sales in groceries will cause retailers’ offerings to shrink commensurate with the dropoff in sales.
“...Our lOCAl WIne SHOPS Are PerHAPS THe lAST VeSTIGe OF An eArlIer COMMerCIAl erA.”
It’s true that convenience will be served by permitting sales in groceries and 7-Elevens. It’s also true that there’s a price that Tennesseans will pay for this convenience, just as there’s “a price we pay for the low prices at Walmart,” which is well-documented in reputable pro-consumer literature. It’s a nuanced debate we should be having in Nashville, despite the reflexive opinion held by some that Tennessee should simply join those States allowing grocery sales. While it’s doubtful that this year’s assembly can pass any kind of legislation requiring bipartisan support, we should be mindful that our local wine shops are perhaps the last vestige of an earlier commercial era. Peering out from the immediate financial rubble, we may think it to have been a better era. F
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February 2009
LOVE IS IN THE AIR
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GAME. SET. MATCH. MEMPHIS IS IN "LOVE" WITH TENNIS Photo by Jay Adkins rom the sell-out exhibition match with Pete Sampras v.s. Lleyton Hewitt to Sunday’s finals, the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships and the Cellular South Cup tournaments at The Racquet Club were the place to be from February 13th to the 22nd. With some of the biggest stars of tennis descending upon Memphis from around the world, the spirit was celebratory–all the more so because the tournaments had remained in Memphis after a period of uncertainty.
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VIP Memphis magazine’s photographers were at the courts throughout the week to capture all the excitement and the action of these thrilling tournaments which benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We attended a kick-off media event with Sampras, where he graciously warmed up with members of the University of Memphis tennis team. Sampras said that he really liked being in Memphis and admitted that he was still competitive “but not like the old days.” He recalled that the 90s were
“a pretty special time for U.S. players.” There were also a number of other related parties and special events held in conjunction with the tennis matches, including a “Teen Bash” hosted by Cellular South which gave the excited young people at the party a chance to meet some of the players. Anyone for tennis? The crowds at The Racquet Club of Memphis resoundingly answered that question in the affirmative!F
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photos by Andrea Zucker March 2009 â&#x20AC;˘ 53
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OFF THE COURT
OFF THE COURT
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photos by Jay Adkins March 2009 • 55
Dance For the Memories
PEOPLE & PLACES Book Signing at Gestures
The 10th Annual Dance for the Memories gala benefiting Page Robbins Adult Day Care Center was held at The Esplanade. With more than 350 people in attendance, it was the most successful gala that Page Robbins has ever had! Funds from this Dinner, Dance and Auction will be used to offset operating expenses for the center allowing participants to pay less than half the actual cost of operation. Photo by Chuck Lajeunesse, Collierville Photography
Terri Healy, Diane Turk, Sandra Johnson, Kris Leventhal
New Offices for EMA
On a Trolley Night not long ago, Gestures Inc., the unique gift and flower store on South Main held a book signing by Robert Hastings. His novel bears the captivating title of Three Grapes and a Cold Biscuit and takes place in the small town of Buford, Alabama mostly in the mid-1970s. It revolves around a middle-aged school teacher named Elba Rae Van Oaks, who suddenly finds herself forced into therapy after a physical altercation with another teacher (and long-time nemesis). She reluctantly begins to reflect on her life in a town full of eccentric relatives, neighbors, and church goers. Robert Hastings was born in Memphis 40–something years ago. As a child, he spent time with family in the Tipton County area and for a while lived under the same roof with parents, grandparents, a great-grandparent—and even a pet monkey. After attending the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Hastings began a career in banking, and then in 2005 started work on the present novel. He modestly observes that "it might make you chuckle—hopefully more than once. And if it does, that’s all it was intended to do.” Kim Gardner & Robert Hastings
East Memphis Aesthetics Skin and Laser celebrated their move to a new location at 768 Brookhaven Circle with an open house for all their customers and friends.
Trezevant Reception at MCC Trezevant held its Annual Board of Directors reception not long ago at the Memphis Country Club. There was a great turnout with residents and board members all joining in the festivities. Trezevant is a retirement community located in the heart of Memphis on North Highland. It is currently undergoing an 80 million dollar expansion.
Frank Crump & Charley Tirrell
Carol Peretz at Kittie Kyle Memphis Heritage Memphis Heritage, Inc. recently held a reception at Howard Hall to open the exhibit on Caraway Place. This amazing ante-bellum home is located in Fayette County, not far from Arlington, and to this day is rumored to be haunted. The February exhibition traced the evolution of the house and featured the photographic artwork of Monty Shane Johnson.
Manager Bonny Schaefer welcomed VIP Memphis graciously to the restaurant's first wine dinner, cleverly called "Swine and Wine," which aimed to showcase pork in all its glory with specially selected wines. Judging by the crowd in the charming restaurant on West Brookhaven Circle, it was a sellout. Bonny Schaefer
Memphis
Carol Peretz & Cindy Gambrell
Memphis Means Music The Memphis Music Foundation hosted for the first time, "Plug In Memphis," an Indie Music Expo at the Memphis Botanic Garden. The event was designed to connect Memphis musicians with Memphis music businesses and service providers. With some 40 exhibitors, the expo provided a rare opportunity for networking and outreach within the music industry, and the plan is for this to become an annual event.
Swine and Wine Dinner at Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen
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Kittie Kyle in Chickasaw Oaks Village recently held a Carol Peretz Trunk Show. All the guests loved her beautiful cocktail dresses and evening gowns and were delighted to have the opportunity to meet the designer herself.
Courtney Wilgus, Jody Stephens & Pat Mitchell-Worley
Wines for Whiskers The Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County hosted a wine-tasting last month at its offices at 935 Farm Road. It was sponsored once again by Whiskers Wine and Spirits on North Germantown Parkway in Cordova. A jolly good time was had by all, and our furry, four-legged friends greatly appreciate the support. Woof woof, meow.
River Oaks Garden Club Celebrates Valentine's The River Oaks Garden Club had their annual Valentine's Day party at the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club this year. The evening began with cocktails and music by the Living Daylights Jazz Trio, then dinner and dancing with DJ Huff. The Club's charming President, Debbie Binswanger, greeted arriving guests at the door. The hard-working organizers of the event were Michele Morisy and Cathy Weil.
Cathy Weil, Debbie Binswanger & Michele Morisy
Midtown Galleries Presents "The Babesâ&#x20AC;?
Hollywood Casino Donates to St. Jude
Christina Moran , "Ben" (the dog) & Tiffany Brimhall
Midtown Galleries located at 2232 Central Avenue is having an art show, which owner David Stearns is calling "The Babes." The artists are all from Memphis and the surrounding area, and they are: Antonia (Tonya) Rembert, Dixie Austin, Marge Levy, Anne Sayle, Rose Herrington and June Cooper. The opening reception will be on March 6th, from 6 to 9 p.m., and the paintings will be on display for the entire month. Midtown Galleries is open from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m, Mondays - Fridays and from noon to 5.00 on Saturday.
John Osborne,VP of Operations & General Manager and Jeff Strang, VP of Marketing of Hollywood Casino present a check for $103,000 to Clark Sweat, Senior Vice President of Corporate Alliances with ALSAC/St.Jude. Monies donated are from the Eighth annual Red Carpet Bash presented by Hollywood Casino. Tonya Rembert & David Stearns
An "Unforgettable" Happy Valentine's Luncheon The Memphis Symphony League held a wonderful gathering at the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club on the day before Valentine's. It was filled with Memphis Symphony Orchestra VIPs, including: David Loebel, Conductor; Ryan Fleur, President and CEO; Rudi Schlegel, guest conductor for the Pops concert of Nat King Cole's music; and Chloee and Dan Poag (he's the current chairman of the MSO Board). Of course this is not to overlook all the wonderful assembled women of the League who give so much of their time and energy to support the MSO. Florence Leffler, the League President welcomed the guests, and Joyce Cobb entertained with her usual style and verve along with pianist J.T. Page. Joe Birch & John Calipari
MIFA's March for Meals! MIFA's March for Meals campaign is a slam dunk! When you dine at participating restaurants during the month of March, ask how you can show your support for MIFA Meals, which provides hot, nutritious meals for more than 2,300 seniors each weekday. To find out more, visit www.mifa.org/marchformeals.
Sissy Long, Naimah Bilal, David Loebel & Marti Laslavic
Valentine's Dinner at Chateau Country Caterers and Bistro Chateau Country Caterers and Bistro hosted a delicious "Valentine's Day Dinner for Lovers" with a special selection of dishes from Chef Scott Pierce's kitchen including seared foie gras, butternut squash soup, roasted rack of lamb, horseradish crusted salmon with chive sauce, chocolate torte and a creme caramel heart.
Diane Levy, Emily Poe, Sandi Kessler Woolsey and Michael Woolsey
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Just Out of the Spotlight
From Nashville to Berlin... Oh, The Places We Went! The Movie Lady Reports by Linn Sitler
Photography at Emmys by Mary Harvey Gurley
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lways a big night for the Mid-South's television stations, The 23rd Annual Emmy Awards – held at Nashville's fabulous Schermerhorn Symphony Center – focused a bright light on two of Memphis' biggest tv stars: Dave Brown and Joe Birch! Receiving Silver Circle Awards for more than 25 years in broadcasting, Dave and Joe got a big round of applause, especially from WMC-TV Channel 5's tables! Phil Bell, National Trustee of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and I (!) "inducted" the two into "The Silver Circle." I was thrilled to be a part of Dave and Joe's "silver" moment. You may not know this, but I was with them all those non-silver years ago at Channel 5. As "The Original POWWWWW5 Girl" (can you believe I'm admitting this), I hosted a live mini-game show that came on every afternoon. Joe was a cub reporter and Dave was already a star. Two weeks later and certainly several thousand miles to the east of Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Memphis & Shelby County Music Commissioner Johnnie Walker and I landed in Berlin, reputedly once more Europe's hippest and most vibrant city. Representing the City and County and our film and music industries specifically, Johnnie and I set off on a whirlwind two days of appointments and events --set against the backdrop of a city more exciting than ever during the opening weekend of The Berlin Film Festival, "The Berlinale." (Our colleague, The Memphis Music Foundation’s Dean Deyo -- temporarily on crutches -- wisely postponed his visit in the hope of future mobility!) Oh, the miles, the kilometers (never could figure out the difference) we covered! We'd planned our diplomatic/economic development mission wisely –– letters of introduction from Steve Cohen, Marsha Blackburn, Mayor Herenton, Mayor Wharton and Tom Schmitt of FedEx and Chairman of the Memphis Regional Chamber landed us in the Berlin Mayor's Office our very first day! Explaining ten areas of possible exchange and the mutual benefit of our film and music industries working together, Johnnie and I wowed (at least we thought so) the Berliners. Two hours spent that afternoon at the U.S. Embassy with the cultural attache further solidified the hoped-for Berlin-Memphis exchange -- even ending with talk of a Pat Tigrett-produced party at the Berlin Ambassador's Residence! That first evening, Johnnie and I celebrated our success and
Making friends for international exchange with Director Barbara Kissler of the Office of the Burgermeister (I mean Mayor!) of Berlin. Johnnie Walker, Director Kissler and Linn Sitler, Memphis and Shelby County Film/TV Commissioner. 58 • VIP
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An Emmy-nominee myself a few years ago (ahem!), I enjoyed the evening with my Mother, Edna Sitler.
TV/film producer and former TN Film Commissioner, David Bennett, FedEx executive, Memphian Mary Harvey Gurley and Shelby County lobbyist Reina Reddish at Emmy Awards
our new friends at the Berlinale Palast, site that night of the German premiere of "The Reader." There, the film's stars Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes -- along with director Stephen Daldry and producer Harvey Weinstein -- joined the "Wer's Wer" (Who's Who) of Berlin (and Memphis-ha) to watch the controversial film screen for the first time in Germany. Afterwards, we ran into my old friend and colleague Henning Molfenter, co-producer of "The Reader" at-- of all unglamorous places-- the coat check closet. We saw Henning again the next night at Berlin's Ritz-Carlton, where the Berlin Film Commissioner, Christiana Raab, and the Mayor's Office, had graciously invited us. The event that evening? Only one of the most important parties of Berlinale: The Medienboard's Berlinale Party! Funding all films made in Berlin, The Medienboard's members are the movers and shakers of Berlin -- the government leaders, the bankers, the economic development officials, the filmmakers. Don't think discussions weren't held about the hopefully shared futures of our film and music industries! What an unbelievable ending for our mission in Berlin....The future definitely looks German! Auf Wiedersehen und Alles Gute F
Life's a Cabaret in Berlin during "The Berlinale." At the MEDIENBOARD Party, the place to be during the festival’s opening weekend! Linn Sitler, Berlin Film Commissioner Christiana Raab and Johnnie Walker.
Joe and Robyn Birch
Lisa Spencer and Dave Brown
Deborah Jobe, Fox13 News Director Ken Jobe, Fox13 Emmy nominee, May-Lin Biggs.
A blast from the past: my PM Magazine Co-Host from the ‘80s: now Nashville’s Joe Elmore and a television host and producer; with Lucinda Chaffin