January 2010
Blues Ball Enchanted Forest Preview Party Subsidium Carrousel of Shoppes Orpheum Auction Gala Q&A with Dr. Kevin H. Smith
CONTENTS
Contents January 2010
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Lynda Mead Shea Though she’s gone on to attain notable civic and professional achievements, this Memphian will always be best known as the city’s favorite Miss America alum.
Blues Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Pat Kerr Tigrett incorporated a fresh holiday concept into her annual party that raises funds for the Memphis Charitable Foundation.
12 BLUES BALL Melanie Tigrett and Stacie Waddell
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16, 44 & 46 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention
34 ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY Ann and Greg Fortunato
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 & 20 J A N UA R Y 2 010
He’s set for another silver screen moment in a homegrown movie. A former nurse, she’s now devoted to spreading the word about organ and tissue donation. StreetSeens highlight John Locke and Kim Van Frank.
RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 A trek across the city’s party landscape..
Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
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Q&A with the dean of the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, Dr. Kevin H. Smith.
18 STREETSEEN John Locke
Enchanted Forest Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 TWIGS of Le Bonheur returned to the Pink Palace to throw a party filled with Christmas cheer and charitable giving.
38 ORPHEUM AUCTION GALA Theresa and Anita Andreuccetti
Orpheum Auction Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 An impressive array of silent and live auction goodies tempted attendees at the Orpheum Theatre’s annual benefit.
Subsidium Carrousel of Shoppes Preview Party . . . . . . . .42 Shopping was the name of the game at Agricenter International during an evening devoted to supporting the Memphis Oral School for the Deaf.
RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Have It Their Way Dennis Phillippi, who is probably giddily devouring a Baconator about now, gives us his take on the current infiltration of fast food deals in TV commercials.
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STREETSEEN Kim Van Frank
SUBSIDIUM CARROUSEL OF SHOPPES Joe and Joyce Keohane Cover Photo Angie and Paul Gould at Blues Ball Photo by Don Perry
Volume XV
Number IV
January 2010 PUBLISHER
Roy Haithcock EDITOR
Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ruth Cassin Kelly Cox Dennis Phillippi Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR
Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS
J A N UA R Y 2 010
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
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Chris Pugh
RSVP
Nathan Berry Roy Haithcock Don Perry Steve Roberts
Ruth Cassin
Libby Huff ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
ACCOUNTING
RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact Roy Haithcock Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax (901) 276-7785 e-mail publisher@rsvpmagazine.com WEB
www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event. Call 901-276-7787, ext. 105 or fax to 901-276-7785. e-mail editor@rsvpmagazine.com Copyright 2010 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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From the Editor
J A N UA R Y 2 010
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don’t know about you, but I’m more than happy— let’s say ecstatic—that 2010 is finally here. Last year was a trying time for many financially, and even more trying for Memphians who thought they’d been displaced in Seattle during the excessive bouts of rain (When you start contemplating trading your car for a boat, you know things are getting bad.). So, I say, out with the old and in with the sunshine and market turnaround. In respect to my job here at RSVP, I’m looking forward to an event that is sure to attract the masses—the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law Grand Opening Gala. Not only am I pumped to get a sneak peek inside one of the city’s most aesthetically beautiful buildings, but I can’t wait to witness all the cool features and unparalleled views that future law students will enjoy on a daily basis. Lucky for me, I had a chance to meet with the dean of the U of M Law School, Dr. Kevin H. Smith, who shares his thoughts on the school’s relocation in the Vox Popular section on page 30. Another fun gathering on my January social calendar that should be on every female’s calendar as well is the Wine, Women & Shoes fund-raiser at the Memphis Botanic Garden. The event debut was so popular last year that organizers brought it back for round two. Not only does this affair, which takes place January 27 and 28, benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center, but it puts all of the city’s trendy boutiques in one location and has lots of tasty vino to boot. Now that’s what I call a fashion forward moment! Finally, thanks to our readers’ show of support for the last editor’s column, as my message about rescuing animals got an overwhelming response. Turns out there are lots of fellow pet lovers in the city, so I appreciate you sharing the paw love.
Leah Fitzpatrick editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Arther W Wells ells 4205 Hacks Cross Rd Memphis, TN 38125 Bus: 901-363-9217 www .artherwells.com www.artherwells.com
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Former Miss America/Owner and President of Shea Design
Mantra: Less is more. First Job: Miss America. Stress Outlet: Long walks. Ideal vacation spot: Aspen. Guilty pleasure: Key lime pie. Favorite Author: David McCullagh. First concert: Elvis at the Coliseum. Favorite Memphis Musician: Elvis. Childhood Ambition: To travel the world. Greatest achievement: My three children. Movie You Could Watch Over and Over Again: Out of Africa. Last Book You’ve Read: Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin. Favorite Album: Listening to a lot of Bach in my car at the moment. Biggest Obstacle You’ve Overcome: Starting a business with no business experience. Where You Take Out-of-Town Guests: The Delta to see our relatives' cotton plantation.
photo by Steve Roberts
SIGNATURE MEMPHIS J A N UA R Y 2 010 RSVP
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Lynda Mead Shea
fashion
accessories
style
EXCLUSIVE TRUNK SHOW with Designer CAROL PERETZ THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 4p-7p FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 10a - 5p SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 10a - 4p
Kittie Kyle will donate $100 to Le Bonheur Club for every Carol Peretz gown purchased during the trunk show.
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EVENT
Blues Ball
BLUES BALL
Holiday Blowout
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J A N UA R Y 2 010
Jeanne and David Simmons
Bob and Dianne Laster
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he Blues Ball took a new twist by taking place during December, but the Memphis sound the event has promoted for 16 years was as hot as ever. In light of the occasion, event founder and chairman Pat Kerr Tigrett encouraged guests to wear black tie (with an attitude), rock ‘n’ roll chic or holiday glam, which seemed a fitting dress code for an event held at the Gibson Guitar Factory. Declared the 2009 Holiday Blowout, the party officially began outside the venue, where several colorful Christmas trees and strings of lights lit up the night sky. Inside, décor came in the way of Tigrett’s signature Mylar ribbon hanging from the ceiling and red poinsettias and white gladiolus with sprigs of holly. Stage areas, both upstairs and on the main level, also had whimsical holiday light displays, while the Gibson Lounge stage was transformed into the Isaac Hayes Lounge for the evening. And, of course, the scenery included lively musicians like Preston Shannon, William Bell, Jason D. Williams, Queens of Zion, Al Kapone, Di Anne Price, Ruby Wilson and newcomer Will Tucker, a 16-year-old guitar player and singer. During the cocktail hour, attendees browsed and bid on silent auction items heavily influenced by the local music culture (think Elvis package from Graceland and Gibson guitar art of Sam Phillips). An open bar loomed nearby, as did a tequila ice luge, which has become a popular attraction at the Blues Ball Spring Auction. One guest eager to have a turn at the ice luge asked his friends, “Have you ever tried this before?” Needless to say, laughter ensued. The dinner menu changed for this ball as well, going from a Southern dinner served family style to hors d’oeuvre stations set up throughout the facility. Main course appetizers included Circa’s crawfish beignets, The Cupboard’s cornbread pudding and Ferdinand’s Catering’s pasta, mini burgers and chicken skewers. For sweets lovers, Westy’s brought hot fudge pies with all the fixings and Kooky Canuck had its Nanaimo bars. Santa didn’t get a bite this night! No Blues Ball would be complete without an awards ceremony. The 2009 winners were Steve Cropper-Memphis Sound Award, the late Jim Dickinson-Lifetime Achievement Award and Preston Shannon-Pyramid Award. Thanks goes to these beloved musicians for giving their all to their art form and to supporters of the Memphis Charitable Foundation, which has given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Madonna Learning Center, the Baddour Center and NARAS/Musicares, to name a few.
Josh and Brittany Driver
Lauren Coleman and Jay Robinson
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Password: RSVP Photos by Roy Haithcock and Don Perry Anner and Chuck Echols
Doris Axton Fredrick and Michael Maness
Shawn and Lana Danko
Kevin Kane, Phil Trenary and Herbie O’Mell
Preston Shannon and Knox Phillips
EVENT BLUES BALL J A N UA R Y 2 010
David and Sunny Hughes
Teresa and Michael Routh
John and Sophia Bors-Koefoed
Santi Lombardo and Amber Patten
Mark Turnbow and Libby Huff
Marisa White and Justin Sharpe
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Hunter Quinn and Mary Righton Brown
Roz Clark, Emma Jean Pierotti, Charles Clark and Lillian Cara
Brooke Tillie and Brian Haynes
Donna Angle and Bob Nelson
Jessica Olson, Matt Hinson, Matt Neil and Jessica Davis
Lynne and Gary Wilkinson
David and Diana Winters
Anna and Tom Palazola
J A N UA R Y 2 010
BLUES BALL E V E N T Jeffrey Matlock and Azalena Hill
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Marion Marr with Steve and Liza Monaghan
Friday, March 5 TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT •ticketmaster.com • All Ticketmaster Locations • Charge by phone 800.745.3000 Jerry and Debbie Ferrell
Jim Wooldridge and Donna Peer : A BEAVER
PRODUCTION :
ONSITE
Onsite
MFM Harvest Celebration Art for Hope MCA Holiday Bazaar Preview Party
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Chris McCormack, Jenn Dixon, Anna Creek and Ben Wallace at Harvest Celebration
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Matt and Kelley Morice at Harvest Celebration
Patrick and Deni Reilly at Harvest Celebration
Kevin Dean, Monty Shane and Claire Ryan at Art for Hope
he Memphis Farmers Market might have come to a close for the season, but people are still reminiscing about the fabulous fare offered at the MFM Harvest Celebration. Nearly 20 local eateries and food establishments participated in the Sunday-afternoon affair at Central Station’s Hudson Hall by offering standout Mesquite Chop House) and dishes like tamale pie (M Felicia Suzanne’s). braised short ribs served over grits (F More than 400 guests washed down the tastings with wine and beer from a complimentary bar provided by A.S. Barboro, while also enjoying music by Valerie June, silent and live auctions and FEED 100 bags from Whole Foods Market. Amerigo presented the event that raised $36,000 for the improvement of patrons’ market experience and next season’s operations. Art for Hope featured works by 55 local artists to help some 600 people get a head start on holiday shopping and a chance to meet featured artist Monty Shane. Held throughout the Memphis Botanic Garden, the party presented by First Tennessee Foundation also gave those non-shoppers an excuse to get out and enjoy eats by Catering For U and live entertainment by Pliè, Pump, & Palette, Identity Crisis, Peter DeGloma, Melanie Hardage, student vocalists from St. Mary’s Episcopal School, Memphis City Sound Chorus and RSVP Men’s Chorus. Proceeds totaled more than $20,000 for Hope House, a nonprofit that provides assistance for HIV-affected children. Memphis College of Art hosted the 60th annual MCA Holiday Bazaar Preview Party to a standing-roomonly crowd at Rust Hall. MCA students and alumni made a good showing of support, as did those in the community who love to nab cool art and jewelry finds. As is tradition, some event volunteers, like Leslie Holland, dressed in festive Christmas attire while ringing up purchases and answering questions as cocktails and hors d’oeuvres flowed aplenty.
Lee Ann Warner and Leslie Holland at MCA Holiday Bazaar Preview Party
Jenny Castellaw, Cassie Castellaw and Barbara Agee at MCA Holiday Bazaar Preview Party
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick Jon Dillard, Rik and Stacey Berry and Sarajane Dillard at MCA Holiday Bazaar Preview Party
Frank and Julia Davis, Vee and Dave Kaiser and Bobbie Wonderly McLaughlin at Art for Hope
Diane Brown and Emily Taylor at Art for Hope
Our East Memphis family VM°9LHS[VYZ°^PSS°JVTWSL[L [OL°WPJ[\YL ° )\`PUN°VY°:LSSPUN
Tom Kimbrough Helen Broker Akin
Steve Bearman
Beth Blumenfeld
Phoebe Burks
Bill Butler
Sheryl Cassibry
Sandra Charlton
Robin Fauser
Gwen Flaniken
Jimmie Harder Fowler
Jan Gordon
Lauren Harkins
Walker Hays
Carolyn Hooker
Tom Iverson
Sylvia Joure
Joy Kimbrough
Janet Lee
Nan Lee
Elizabeth Marchisio
Toni Martello
Kathryn Ann Matheny
Christine McBee
George Merrifield
Crissy Smith
Susie Sneed
Tricia Snider
Carol Stout
Jeff Sullivan
Cooper Turner
Michael Varner
585 South Perkins at Audubon Park Office: (901) 766-9004
Mike Mills
Alice Newton
Jim Pascover
Claire Perkins
Nancy Perrine
Wendy Rylee
Lynn Walker
Vivian Watson
Melissa Wilbanks
Mig Williams
Judson Williford
Mandy Wright
STREETSEEN
John Locke Man of Character
J A N UA R Y 2 010
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ohn Locke got his breakout role on the big screen in the Coen Brothers’ O Brother, Where Art Thou?, but his favorite onscreen character is one he recently played in a locally made movie, One Came Home. Ironically enough, both characters’ names are preceded by “Mister”—Mr. French in O Brother, Where Art Thou? and Mr. Jenkins in One Came Home—but any other similarities end there. Mr. French is a fast-talking talent scout, whereas Mr. Jenkins, a town leader, has more of an easygoing personality, which Locke says isn’t too far of a departure from his own. “Mr. Jenkins is a likable, fun-loving guy who helps and motivates people, and that’s what I like to do,” he explains. Set for a spring release in theaters, One Came Home tells the story of a World War II veteran’s trip to Mississippi to inform his war buddy’s family about their son’s last days and his wish to raise money for a memorial statue. Locke originally auditioned for the role of the preacher in the film, but filmmakers Willy Bearden and David Tankersley thought him better suited for the part of Mr. Jenkins. He easily adapted to the new role and began filming his scenes last summer at Davies Manor in Memphis and at the previous Assembly of God Church Elvis attended during his youth in Tupelo, Mississippi. The film wrapped last August, and Locke came away from the experience with nothing but praise for the cast and crew and admits that the close interaction with everyone in this project is harder to come by in bigger budget flicks. He adds, “There wasn’t one person who wanted to stand out in this movie, and everyone complemented each other and bent over backward to help.” While Locke plans to continue working in local films, he’s hoping for a part in the Coens’ upcoming adaptation of True Grit. To prepare for such auditions, he retreats into his “room of thinking,” otherwise known as the music room at his house, and reads a script until he feels comfortable with the delivery. Locke laughs that he used to go into auditions always thinking he’d get the part but has since replaced that mindset with the reality of the outcome, opting instead to feel satisfied after giving a good audition. Locke also knows landing a role is all about being in the right place at the right time, hence the 18 years that elapsed from his first stage performance at Covington’s Ruffin Theater until his dream of being on the silver screen in O Brother, Where Art Thou? came true. “You don’t always know what you did to get cast, which leads me to think you have to be what the casting director or director is looking for in his mind when you walk through the door,” he reasons. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Don Perry
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J A N UA R Y 2 010
Nick French
ABR CRS GRI SRES
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Gail French
STREETSEEN
Kim Van Frank Facilitating Healing
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urrently more than 105,000 people are waiting for an organ transplant, and 18 of those individuals waiting will die today because an organ isn’t available to save their life. As director of the Mid-South Transplant Foundation, Kim Van Frank wants to lessen the gap between the number of people receiving organ donations and the number of donors. “I believe the general public would be surprised to learn the tremendous impact one person can have on others,” she says. “One organ donor can save the lives of up to eight people and can help more than 50 other people through tissue donation.” To spread this message, foundation supporters are manning booths at the Tennessee Department of Safety and County Clerks’ offices throughout West Tennessee to encourage potential donors to sign up for the Tennessee Donor Registry (tndonorregisty.org). This registered decision is legally binding, and the law requires that an individual’s wishes are honored upon his or her death. In her experience, Van Frank says that when families are faced with the death of a loved one, they appreciate knowing their family member’s decision about donation. A great example of a local donor family is the Fischer family, whose son, Will, passed away after a stroke. Will’s image appears on a wall at the foundation headquarters next to the words, “Will was a hero at age two…he saved five lives,” and serves as a constant reminder for Van Frank and her staff to continue informing individuals how easy it easy to become a donor. She adds that Will’s family also showed the importance of having a family care department that is dedicated to working with donor families. “Organ and tissue donations work two-fold because they help donor families heal and the recipients heal,” Van Frank says. Most recently, the Mid-South Transplant Foundation kicked off the Recipient Ambassador Program (RAP), which began last month at Baptist East and The MED. Through this program, individuals who are waiting for organ or tissue donations are able to visit with hospital staff caring for potential donors and let them know their story. This way, hospital employees meet the recipients first-hand and learn more about the meaning and benefits of donation. However, she points out that organ and tissue donation is only considered when a doctor determines that a patient will die from their injury or illness. She clarifies, “The biggest misconception remains that if a person signs up to be a donor, the doctors won’t work as hard to save them. This is simply not true, as the number one priority is to save a sick or injured person’s life.” Every day, Van Frank feels blessed to see miracles happen and thanks the foundation’s healthcare professionals for giving of themselves, often on a 24hour basis. She smiles, “My job is very rewarding.” Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
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A Trek Across the City’s Party L andscape March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction Not every distinction is a positive one. Disturbingly, Memphis leads the nation in premature births and has almost twice the rate of infant mortality than the national average. Many Memphians are working to change these realities, with more than 500 of them attending the Signature Chefs Auction benefiting the March of Dimes. For its 20th anniversary,
sine in Memphis. Among the signature chefs were Erling Jensen and Karen Roth of Erling Jensen, Jimmy Ishii of Sekisui, Rick Farmer of Jarrett’s, Jeffrey Dunham of The Grove Grill, Jason Severs of Bari and David Johnson of McEwen’s. Among the dishes
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22 the fund-raiser was back at the Racquet Club of Memphis, where it began. “Twenty years ago,” recalls Barbara Farmer, “we had just six chefs and one auction table. We held it in the ballroom, with room to spare. It was just a little party. And look at us now! Memphis was in on the ground floor of what today is a national event, and now we host one of the largest
were a decadent and different baconwrapped shrimp in creamy horseradish sauce by Chef Cullen Kent of Cafe Society and a smoky, succulent plate of braised short ribs and caramelized onions over cheese grits by Chef Felicia Willett of Felicia Suzanne’s. Touchingly, each chef station displayed a photograph of the chef posing playfully with a healthy child who had survived premature birth. Steve Conley and Karen Perrin of Classic Hits 94.1 KQK acted as master and mistress of ceremonies. Auctioneer John Roebuck presided over a live auction to Fund the Mission, supporting the NICU Family Support program right here in Memphis. Among those supporting the cause and having a ball were Lydia and Roy BorsKoefoed, Donna and Mike Glenn, Sarah
Andre Wharton, Leslie Ladd, Georgia Oliver, Heather Grosvenor, Christy and Blake Smith, Carrie and Steve Hanlon, Ashley and Ryan Schneider, Jean and Bram Bors-Koefoed, Ginna and Jay Tillman, Gretchen and Kojo McLennon, Ann and Jonathan Page, Laura Martin, Micki Martin, Kim Hamric, Jane Sacharczyk, Erin Shea, Beth Rainwater and Jennifer and Joel Hobson. Story and photos by Kelly Cox
Habitat for Humanity Toolbox Bash For those who weren’t bedizened in purple, green and gold boas, as well as beads and masks, they were provided some at the door to “laissez les bon temps roulez” (a Cajun expression for “Let the good times roll.”) at the eighth annual Tool
Carrie Hanlon, Erin Shea and Beth Rainwater Chris and Stefanie Taylor
chefs’ events in the country.” Following the packed silent auction and cocktail hour, guests descended to the indoor tennis courts, which had been transformed into a giant party tent filled with Japanese lanterns, white tablecloths, Sputnik-shaped lights tracing across the ceiling...and ample tastings of the best cui-
Laura Martin and Micki Martin
and Jo DiNicolantonio, Shara Lynn and Chancellor Arnold Goldin, Monica and
Box Bash. Presented by Valero Memphis Refinery, this year’s silent and live auction, held at Hilton Memphis, carried the theme Mardi Gras in the Quarter.” “M Around 250 supporters of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis mingled
Victorian Village Inc. Yuletide Gala During the mid-to-late 19th century, the area between Danny Thomas Boulevard, Manassas, Poplar and Madison was saturated with regal Victorian mansions. A century of development has left only a handful of these testaments to the wealthy bankers, lawyers and cotton merchants that lived there, in an Jim Mahannah, Raishene Webb, Joe Sellmansberger and E. Ron Horton
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area now known as Victorian Village. In an effort to preserve and re-acquaint Memphians with their heritage, Victorian Village Inc. Community Development Corp., in conjunction with the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities and Pink Palace Family of Museums, keep these monuments
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$44,000 this night, enabling the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity to continue to provide safe, healthy and affordable shelter for those in need. Contributing to the cause at the bash were Lauren and Julie Cannon, Dwayne Spencer, Crystel Hardin, Tom Botto, Celeste Autry, Janet, Ken McNair, Jim Mahannah, Raishene Webb, Joe Sellmansberger, E. Ron Horton, Rob Hall, Jim Joyner, Kelly and Michael Clark, Morgan
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in the Southeast Ballroom, enjoying a wine tasting and Big Easy-style heavy hors d’oeuvres. Hundreds of items, including restaurant certificates, vacation packages, art work and music and sports memorabilia, were up for grabs during the silent auction. Local deejay Tom Prestigiacomo of WKIM-FM led the masked merrymakers through the live auction that followed, and the New Orleans Jazz Ramblers entertained with its zesty sound. The crowd also had the opportunity to vote for the carnival-clad looking king and queen. Once the votes were in, Theresa LaFond and Dr. Curt Fields were crowned the evening’s royalty. Though only two people walked home with crowns, everyone left with photos to remember themselves in their best bacchanalian attire and a mask to possibly carry with them to New Orleans’ French Quarter come next February. Event proceeds reached more than
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functioning as a destination site and a museum. As part of a renewed vigor to garner more funding for these historic sites and what they house, the Woodruff-Fontaine Museum House held its first annual Victorian Yuletide Gala, a Christmas party in grand Victorian style. Proceeds from the gala will be used in the preservation and restoration of the extensive Victorian clothing collection of the museum, hundreds of garments that are displayed on rotation throughout the year. The more festive styles were on display during the gala, and guests could peruse the holiday collec-
Bob and Gayle Bennett with Mary Anne Reed
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tion when not bidding on auction items, including handmade ornaments crafted by local artisans, many of whom decades before attended Memphis College of Art, which was first housed in the Village as Rosa Lee’s Art School. The Christmas spirit was in high gear when guests were asked to participate with the Memphis Men’s Chorale in singing Christmas carols, that is if they weren’t occupied munching on pass-around hors d’oeuvres or sipping wine. Some guests even donned their most Victorianesque garments, some
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~ for Beverl ~ For me, Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women means caring. Caring what happens to me. Caring about me as a person. My grandmother, mother, and sister were all diagnosed with breast cancer, and I needed someone to take my risk of breast cancer as seriously as I did. I found that support and reassurance in Pam Winter, my nurse navigator. In fact, I got much more than I expected – I made a lifelong friend. I’m so grateful I put my trust in the people who’ve been giving dedicated care to women for almost a decade.
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National Philanthropy Day Crystal Awards Luncheon The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) presented an enlightening program that honored area philanthropists during the Crystal Awards Luncheon. Joining in the celebration of the 23rd National Philanthropy Day activities were award recipients’ family, friends and co-workers, who happily congratulated the day’s seven winners. Diana Kelly chaired the ceremony, held at the U of M Holiday Inn, with the assistance of co-chair Kris Crim. The program began with Kevin Roehl, president of AFP Memphis, welcoming the crowd to an event
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new, some old, including a 1920s gold velvet flapper-style evening gown. “A lot of wonderful people donated, from the sound system to the tables to the wine and food, to make this happen, and we are so grateful,” said Peggy Lovell, the Woodruff-Fontaine Museum House director. Those enjoying the festivities were Susan Morgan, LaVerne Lovell, Maureen and Arthur Pera, Catherine and Mike McAndrews, William Pickering, Marianne Shadrack, Sherry Prewitt, Jim Ralston, Didi Montgomery, Rick Bartl, Scott Blake, June and Dexter Varnell, Boswell Hale, Courtney Lewis-Hale, Mack Person, Marjorie Nolan, Gayle and Bob Bennett, Mary Anne and Phil Reed, Katherine and Franklin Godoy, Cameron Bennett and Karrie LaCroix.
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that highlights the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positive aspects. He added how timely the luncheon was being that he learned the night before of the $90 million grant the Bill and Linda Gates Foundation J. J. Doughtie, Mary Shainberg, Delores Kinsolving and Joe Birch awarded to (Front); Mike Bruns, Ed Galfsky and Jim Boyd (Back) Memphis City Schools. â&#x20AC;&#x153;National Philanthropy Day was first held in 1986, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still going strong,â&#x20AC;? Roehl said. The president then opened the floor to Rev. Dr. Gary Gunderson, who delivered the invocation, and to RenĂŠ Koopman, a respected musician who loaned his piano talent to the occasion. Guests then took the opportunity to enjoy a delicious three-course meal at tables decorated with teddy bear centerpieces donated by Fredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. After the ceremony, the stuffed animals were donated to Le Bonheur Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Center and the Memphis Kevin Roehl, Diana Kelly and Kris Crim Child Advocacy Center. An awards portion followed, with Roehl temporarily standing in for Joe Birch as the emcee, since Birch was the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first award recipient. Birch, an anchor for WMC-TV 5, was recognized as the Outstanding Volunteer Fund-raiser for his numerous civic contributions, such as raising $50,000 for St. Jude Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Research Hospital through the St. Jude Memphis Marathon, for being the co-founder and director of the Gibson Guitar 5K Run-Walk and for volunteering as a MIFA Meals on Wheels delivery driver. After accepting the award and joking that he is continually getting slower at races, Birch announced the other deserving recipients: Delores Kinsolving-â&#x20AC;&#x153; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Philanthropyâ&#x20AC;? Special Recognition; Jim Boyd-O Outstanding Executive Leader; Comtrak Logistics, Inc. (Mike Bruns)-O Outstanding Corporation; Carnival Memphis (E Ed Galfsky)Lee Wakeman and Wesley Tomlinson Outstanding Philanthropic Organization; Mary Shainberg-O Outstanding Philanthropist; and J.J. Doughtie-O Outstanding Fund-raising Executive. Outstanding Youth in Those who previously received awards at their schools were Elizabeth Compton-O Philanthropy (IIndividual) and the St. Agnes Academy Vocal Music Department-O Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy (G Group). Others in attendance were Lee Wakeman, Wesley Tomlinson, Mary Scheuner, Betty Speake, Missy Rainer, Perry Dement, Martha Boyd, Dee Flood, Leo Arnoult, Carolyn Freeman, Ursula Madden, Mindy Helms and Vance Lewis. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
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Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon The Methodist Healthcare Foundation rolled out the red carpet for its eighth annual Cancer Center Luncheon, and for good reasonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;K Kathy Bates was in town! An Academy AwardÂŽ-winning actress, Bates served as the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keynote speaker and indulged fans with a meet-and-greet during a special VIP
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
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hour prior to the main event. FedEx presented the affair as the diamond sponsor, helping luncheon organizers put on a top-notch fund-raiser for the Methodist Hospice Residence. Memphians responded by packing the Grand Ballroom, which had an appropriate dĂŠcor of movie reel tins, film and buckets of popcorn filled with yellow flowers. Joe Birch fulfilled the master of ceremonies duty, taking a prime opportunity to thank Bates for coming home for a worthy cause. He went on to say that while he was back stage with Bates, he was anticipating an opening line from her, when she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The day I was born, the doctor slapped me on the behind, and I thought it was applauseâ&#x20AC;ŚIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been looking for it ever since.â&#x20AC;? Birch also told the audience that Bates would participate in a question and answer session after her speech and that guests could fill out one question card for each table. Before Bates came out, another local talent, Alexis Grace of Cheri Rudner and Kathy Bates American Idol fame, entertained with a range of popular covers. Molly Smith, a native Memphian who has found her niche in Hollywood as a movie producer, then introduced Bates, who worked with Smith in P.S. I Love You and The Blind Side. The audience gave Bates an overwhelming applause, which she gladly entertained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Southern accent started coming back 150 miles from here, and I think Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll keep it a while,â&#x20AC;? she smiled. Bates then shared memories from her childhood in Memphis and how she became involved in acting at Southern Methodist University. Due to her career as an actress, she admitted that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always gone back and forth between whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not. She elaborated by saying actors are famous for doing imaginary things, so she decided to work on herself outside of acting, by doing things like traveling to France for French lessons. However, her plans were put on hiatus when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2003. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I found out I had cancer, I was so far removed from being Kathy Bates,â&#x20AC;? she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was just down to being my spirit by then.â&#x20AC;? The actress closed by telling that she was grateful to have had cancer because she was woken up from a dream. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cancerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taught me that every moment is precious and an opportunity to Jackie Graves, Karen Troutman, Sandy Patterson and Kathy Hunt love,â&#x20AC;? she divulged. Those in attendance for this inspiring talk were Denise Henning, Susan and Alan Graf, Ami Austin, Dr. Susan Murrmann Price, Theresa Gillen, Cheryl Stegbauer, Debbie Crom, Karen Troutman, Sandy Patterson, Kathy Hunt, Jackie Graves, Nancy Jo and Dr. Jerry Deaton, Carolyn and Dr. John Dobson, Cheri Rudner, Mary Lawrence Allen, Dr. Clay Jackson and Paula Jacobson.
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Vox Popular Q&A with Dr. Kevin H. Smith
S
ince becoming dean of the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law last March, Dr. Kevin H. Smith has been preparing for the school’s relocation to the former U.S. Customs House on Front Street. Also an accomplished professor who has been with U of M for 17 years, Dr. Smith has been supportive of the move that will bring the law school more clout amongst the nation’s top schools, and can’t wait to celebrate the school’s new era at the grand opening gala on January 16. RSVP editor Leah Fitzpatrick joined Dr. Smith as he discussed floor plans and offered a whole lot of praise for the faculty and students. dents are every bit as good and trained just as well.
Dr. Smith: I did not at all. After I was interim dean, I was on sabbatical, working to do some research on a book and spending a great deal of time in Starbucks on Houston Levee, and had no notion this was going to turn out the way it did.
RSVP: How many traveling teams does the U of M Law School currently have, and how do they rank across the board?
RSVP: What was your initial reaction when you assumed your new role at the university?
Dr. Smith: I think it would be six to eight traveling teams, and I guess the best way to answer that question is we were recently invited to participate in the National Moot Court Competition, and they limit it to the top 15 or 16 schools in the country.
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Dr. Smith: I took the temporary position because my predecessor [James Smoot] was ill, so my initial reaction was, “Hurry up and get well!”
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RSVP: What has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the job thus far? Dr. Smith: If I could actually pick two things, internally it is working with the faculty members, particularly the junior faculty members, to assist them in any way I can with their professional development. Externally, it would be—I’m a shy person by nature, so I didn’t know I’d like this aspect—working with the alums and friends of the law school because it’s marvelous to see students whom I taught over the last 15 years and to see how successful they are and what wonderful attorneys and judges they’ve become. RSVP: Have there been any unforeseen challenges since becoming dean? I know that the move is a big challenge. Dr. Smith: I think that the economic difficulties that really began shortly after I became the acting or interim dean have been challenging, but [laughs] I don’t think there’s much of a correlation there. RSVP: What do you think people would be most surprised to know about the law school? Dr. Smith: That we can compete nationally in things such as moot court and go head to head with schools like Harvard. That our stu-
Photos by Don Perry
RSVP: When you were interim dean of the law school, did you expect to become dean?
RSVP: What are students being taught to keep up with technological advances in the legal system? Dr. Smith: They’ve been doing electronic research for a while. I think that technically, they need to be very understanding in the way in which technology underpins the economic system. When clients come to them, many of the problems arise out of technology, electronic commerce, so they need to understand how that technology works. RSVP: What kind of experience would you like students to take away with them after they graduate? Dr. Smith: Of course, I’d like them to take away the skills necessary to engage in the modern practice of law. I also would like them to take away a full appreciation for the vital role that lawyers play in maintaining a prosperous, democratic society. They really are the architects and guardians of a very special political and economic system. RSVP: How long has the law school been looking at another site for its move? Dr. Smith: I know that the process of dreaming about the move began in the mid-1990s. The dean at that time began looking downtown at some sites as possibilities for the new law school. I think more actively, more seriously, it’s been in the last four or five years,
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since the early 2000s, that the school has been researching a new site. Honestly, I was a professor at that point and was secluded from reality, so I’m not really sure what was going on behind the scenes. I think ultimately it came down to main campus, south campus and downtown. I also know there was a feasibility study done, and quite frankly, this was before I came into the picture. RSVP: How large is the new building? Dr. Smith: I hesitate only because I’ve heard from architects and others a wide range of figures…let’s say it’s approximately 150,000 usable square feet. The current law school is 60,000 square feet, so we’re about two-and-a-half times bigger. By way of comparison, the current law school building will fit into the library in the new building. RSVP: What are some of the different ways the move downtown will affect the community?
RSVP: I’m sensing a John Grisham inspired movie being made at the new location. Dr. Smith: [Laughs] Well, I think it certainly would be a grand venue for it.
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Dr. Smith: It will affect things economically. We’re bringing nearly 500 people downtown, so it’ll be like dropping a small city right in the middle of the downtown area with all the housing, shopping and parking that 500 will do. I think for downtown again, it will bring a certain amount of vitality. We’re bringing lots of young professionals downtown—that can’t do anything but add to the energy of the area. In terms of the program, I think being downtown will allow our students to have more 32 access to externships and clerkships. I think it will strengthen the ties we have to the courts, law firms and businesses downtown. It’s going to allow us to bring in judges, attorneys and business leaders to the law school as teachers and speakers, and I could keep going, but those are the main things. We’re also going to for the first time bring our legal clinic into the building as part of our program. A whole area in the new building will provide an elder law clinic, child advocacy clinic, a small business clinic and a federal civil litigation clinic to serve under-represented individuals, people who can’t afford their own attorneys. So, our students, under the guidance of several clinical professors, will assist them. We’re excited about the clinic, and it will allow more students to participate in the clinic program. In essence, it will be a fully functioning law firm, so they’ll get to see how professionals act and how law firms are set up. For the last 20 years or so, we’ve been housed in the Memphis Area Legal Services offices, which has just been wonderful, and we’ll maintain that affiliation, but also have our own space.
wonderful place for people to have mock trials and moot court classes. We will also have a practice moot courtroom, and why this is so good is our moot court and mock trial program are very strong. The weekend that the Memphis Tigers were playing Kansas for the National Championship, our moot court team was going up against Harvard for the National Championship. Unfortunately, it was the same result, but our team is very talented. One feature will be the ability to have truly functional courtrooms for them to practice in. Another thing is if you were to look at the classrooms in the current building, they are very long and narrow, so when you reach a certain age, you can’t see the faces on the students in the back of the room or hear them. So, we’ve redesigned the rooms into the shape of a horseshoe in the new building, which will be more conducive to the give and take of a law school class. The new student lounge area is also very open and conducive to collaborative study. There will be a bookstore where people can get coffee and take-away sandwiches and things. We’re hoping to keep our students at the law school with these offerings. It really is going to be a marvelous facility. The new library will even be on all five floors on the south side, and we’ll have a glass enclosed reading room that looks out over the river. We’ve already had a number of people ask about it as space for wedding receptions, so we’re looking at making the space available on a rental basis.
RSVP: Do you hope to increase the student population of the law school? Dr. Smith: We are moving to the new building to make the program better, not bigger. That said, the expected class size of the entering class of 2010 will be about 150 students. RSVP: What are some of the attractive features for students at the new building? Dr. Smith: Where to begin? We have an old federal courtroom, which is being refurbished, and will be a fully functional courtroom, unlike the moot courtroom we currently have upstairs. This will really be a
RSVP: Do you think the new school facility will make U of M’s Law School more competitive with other law schools? Dr. Smith: Absolutely. RSVP: What are you most proud of from your faculty and from the students? Dr. Smith: Again, it’s two things for the faculty. They’re marvelous teachers committed to their students, but at the same time, they’re excellent scholars. Last year, they wrote 11 or 12 books, plus a number of law review articles. It’s really difficult to pick one thing. We have tremendously bright and talented students who have amazing backgrounds as educators, musicians and athletes, and I guess just the seriousness in which they take their professional education is the most impressive thing. Lawyers sometimes have a bad reputation, but these are excellent people. RSVP: What can people expect who are attending the law school’s grand opening gala on January 16? Dr. Smith: They can expect a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime event. There will be food stations from many of the downtown restaurants. There will be music provided at many points within the school. In terms of the party, it will be a good party, but it will also be an opportunity to show off what’s really going to be a state-of-the art, world-class facility. We’re thinking at least 1,500 people will be there based on the ticket sales so far.
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ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY
EVENT
Enchanted Forest Preview Party “Enchanted Evening”
N Cindy and Jeff DeBardelaben
Darrell and Carol Douglas
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early 50 Christmas trees, laden with every imaginable ornament, created an unparalleled holiday spectacle at the Enchanted Forest Preview Party. TWIGS (Together We Initiate Growth and Sharing) of Le Bonheur spearheaded the popular family event, which took place inside the Pink Palace Museum, to raise contributions for Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center patients. Keeping with tradition, the “Enchanted Evening” brought to life characters from the former Goldsmith’s Enchanted Forest, but the fun didn’t stop there. The Gingerbread Village, a train display, Enchanted Forest Penguin Pals and the “Holidays Around the World” exhibit captured partygoers’ attention at every turn. Even Santa himself, played by Mike White, made an appearance and gladly obliged guests wishing to have a photo alongside the night’s jolliest soul. And for those adults too “old” to have their picture taken with Santa, they opted to explore the Festival of Trees nearby, boasting creative themes like “The Beat of Le Bonheur,” “Candy Land” and “Polar Party.” Lots of feasting and imbibing also took place this night. Twenty-two area restaurants supplied hors d’oeuvres, including lasagna (Coletta’s), onion soufflé and pita chips (Le Bonheur Food and Nutrition), clam chowder (Houston’s) and ham, turkey and chicken salad sandwiches (Newk’s). Starbucks, Coca-Cola, A.S. Barbaro, D. Canale, United Liquors and Spirits at Timber Creek donated drinks that volunteer bartenders gladly poured into commemorative wine glasses hand-painted by Le Bonheur cardiac patients. To burn off the party pounds, guests took to the dance floor for tunes by The Plaintiffs. Rachel Jett Ware served as the preview party chairman and had a steering committee of 11 members, in addition to other numerous sponsors and volunteers, assist her with the affair that keeps the “Season of Giving” alive.
Allison Tucker and Brad Owens
Mike “Santa” and Salen White
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Nathan Berry See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Pat and Lauren Powers
Ada Askew and Josh Spotts
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Dianna Greer, Kavanaugh Casey, Heather Golden and Donna Hoffman
Stacey Hellums and Chad Pitt
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EVENT ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY J A N UA R Y 2 010
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EVENT
Orpheum Auction Gala
ORPHEUM AUCTION GALA
“Oh, What a Night”
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Beth Pease and Shauna Bledsoe
Mary and Patrick Halloran
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Bob Bell and Jamie Patterson
Elizabeth Gaia and Matt Moskal
n the words of Frankie Valli, “Oh, What a Night!” it was at the 31st annual Orpheum Auction Gala. Held on an unusually warm November evening, the benefit attracted 800 theatre supporters, who believed in bidding big—$250,000 big! As is customary, the event offered both a silent and live auction to raise funds for the Orpheum Theatre’s 17 education and community outreach programs like the Student Matinee Series, Family Series and its Summer Institute. Festivities kicked off in the beautiful gilded surroundings of the foyer, where a section for home furnishings and accessories and another boasting wine, spirits and cigars enticed eager bidders. The action then spilled over into the adjoining parlor and Broadway Club, which contained an assortment of merchandise ranging from photography and spa packages to gifts and pet services, before picking back up with even more selections in the upstage and backstage areas. To drum up interest for the live auction, volunteers like Laurie Holt, who donned a red sheared knit beaver stroller donated by King’s Furs and Fine Jewelry, walked amongst the crowd to give potential bidders up-close views of luxury apparel. When asked where one would wear such a coat, Holt smiled, “It’s for strolling through the woods in the snow.” This year, a number of restaurants had staff onsite preparing and serving delicious eats. In the spirit of the upcoming “Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons” at the Orpheum, Christopher McRae of Hound Dogs set up his silver hot dog stand onstage and quickly had a line formed for one of his “Coney Island Dogs.” Other offerings included Harrah’s shrimp cocktail martinis and toasted ravioli, Café Society’s beef and pork tenderloin and Lenny’s Sub Shop’s Philly cheesesteaks, to name a few. Following a brief performance from “Jersey Boys,” Orpheum Foundation president Pat Halloran introduced the live auction portion of the evening and thanked his staff for putting nearly five months worth of preparations into the gala. Terri Walker of Walker Auctions reprised the auctioneer duties and livened up the auditorium thanks to her enthusiasm and fast approach. “I’m going to sell 23 items, and I’m going to do it quickly,” she promised. Lots of treasures, such as an Andy Warhol double Elvis marble framed print and a dining chair painted with John Lennon’s face on the front and “Give Peace a Chance” on the back, left with happy new owners, but the real joy came from giving back to one of the city’s finest performing arts venues. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
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EVENT ORPHEUM AUCTION GALA
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EVENT ORPHEUM AUCTION GALA
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Mike and Kathleen Edelmuth
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Frank and Sue Guarino
Susan and Morgan Walker
Jim and Nancy Pettit
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Mike and Gail Huey
Ben and Stephanie Jordan
Shanea Carrawell and Laurie Holt
Anthony and Anita Howald
John and Mori Welborn
Kerry Boles and Chelsea Babb
Clairene Tibbs and Timothy Seymour
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EVENT SUBSIDIUM CARROUSEL OF SHOPPES
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Subsidium Carrousel of Shoppes Preview Party
Mary and Charles Stewart
Jenna Wilkerson and Melinda Thomas
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gricenter International marked the scene for the preview of a favorite Memphis holiday shopping experience, Carrousel of Shoppes. The members of Subsidium, Inc., a nonprofit auxiliary founded to fund scholarships for students at Memphis Oral School for the Deaf (MOSD), again presented a superlative party and a successful show. More than 650 guests converged as 120 exhibitors from across the United States showed their wonderful and extensive array of gift items, which included gold plated golf tees, exclusive footwear, educational toys, pottery, sculpture, handbags, rare books, photography and exquisite clothing, to name a few. Among the silent auction items were a Gayle Sayres autographed football, Yogi Berra autographed baseball, a University of Memphis gift basket and a set of French Imperial Grenadiers from Memphis Toy Soldiers. Live auction items ranged from fabulous trips and original artwork to fine jewelry. Throughout the displays were scattered sumptuous offerings generously donated from 20 local eateries, such as Blue Fish’s white chocolate bread pudding, Boscos Squared’s shrimp and grits, Outback Steakhouse’s black and white sesame tuna and The Half Shell Restaurant’s lobster and shrimp bruschetta. Libations flowed aplenty as everyone enjoyed the best sounds from Mean Green Music Machine’s vast rock, pop, country, Motown and disco repertoire. The show also featured book signings by local authors Monica Lapuente (Monastery Belles) and J. G. Rives (Where Are My Christmas Presents?), performances by the students of MOSD and the Christ Methodist Day School Choir and wine tastings by Barefoot Wines, Black Box Wines and Red Truck Wines. Food vendors for the weekend shopping days were Bella Café, CrêpeMaker, Flossie’s Funnel Cakes, Lenny’s Sub Shop and Panini Catering. Honorary chairpersons for Carrousel were mother and son Susan and Alex Miller, who have been long-time supporters and volunteers. Subsidium’s Karin Nelson stated that the organization was extremely pleased with the turnout and added that 100 percent of the show’s proceeds benefit the school. Story by Ruth Cassin See all the party photos at Photos by Don Perry rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
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Kathy and Lee Greene
Alex Miller and Amanda Farmer
Sonia Smith, Becky Rivalto and Donna Lewis
Jim and Susan Miller
EVENT SUBSIDIUM CARROUSEL OF SHOPPES
Regina Davin, Peggy Davis and Becky Cook
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At Your SERVICE Steven Morrow, Chuck Thomas and Will Sistrunk
C AT E R I N G by
Leah Donahue 767.1811
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WFGM Grants Showcase Agape’s Heartlight Gala JDRF Promise Ball Kick-off Share the Spirit of Giving Kick-off
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Mellany Evans and Tom Portis at Share the Spirit of Giving Kick-off
Chris Thomas and Mark Dean at Share the Spirit of Giving Kick-off
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he Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis proudly awarded $630,000 in grant awards during the 2009 annual WFGM Grants Showcase at the Memphis Botanic Garden. To highlight their community involvement, 30 grantee organizations set up booths throughout the facility. Morgan Keegan sponsored the event, which also served as a volunteer recognition ceremony to acknowledge individuals and organizations that affect social change in the community. Agape Child & Family Services took over Agricenter International for its Heartlight Gala. Powerlines,” the benefit shed light on realThemed “P life experiences taking place in Memphis and introduced Agape’s future plans for assisting children and families in at-risk neighborhoods. Guests contributed more than $300,000 in support of Agape, and Melinda and Mark George of Intermodal Cartage served as the presenting sponsors. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), which applies more than 85 percent of fundraising dollars toward research and related education of juvenile (type 1) diabetes, recently celebrated in ‘70s style at the Elvis Presley Car Museum. The party served as a kick-off for the JDRF Promise Ball scheduled for April 10 at The Peabody. Presenting sponsor will be the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation with Jack Soden as honorary chair. Volunteer Mid-South, along with honorary chair Chris Thomas, hosted the Share the Spirit of Giving Kick-off at Bancorp South-Centrum Building. This gathering brought awareness to Volunteer MidSouth’s December fund-raiser and community service project that provides books, toys and school supplies to Memphis City Schools’ elementary students with the most need. FedEx, International Paper and Patterson Warehouse served as gold sponsors for the campaign that showed the true spirit of the holiday season.
Tonya Baymon, Regina Walker and Tomeka Hart at WFGM Grants Showcase
Lisa Hume, Cassandra McNair, Hyun Cho and Cassandra Thomas at WFGM Grants Showcase
Story Submitted and by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos Submitted and by Jim Kiihnl Donna Cooper, Anita Vaughn and Greta Hunter at WFGM Grants Showcase
Grace Hanks and Jack Soden at JDRF Promise Ball Kick-off
Mike Bruns and Mary Scott at JDRF Promise Ball Kick-off
Marka Bennett, Mayor A C and Ruby Wharton and David Jordan at Agape’s Heartlight Gala
Laura, Jaylin and Steve Burns at Agape’s Heartlight Gala
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SPAYtacular Delta Waterfowl Banquet MSO Night with Craig Brewer
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Trey Watkins, Andy Lamanna and Jason Robinson at Delta Waterfowl Banquet
David and Tanis Hackmeyer with Hunter Carrington at Delta Waterfowl Banquet
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he Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO) opened its season at the Cannon Center by hosting a special evening with local filmmaker Craig Brewer. Guests walked a red carpet, complete with a larger-than-life Oscar® statue, for the event that featured Brewer telling personal accounts about music that has influenced his artistic projects. Carolyn Kuan of the Seattle Symphony Orchestra served as guest conductor, while the audience enjoyed selections from Bernstein’s “West Side Story,” Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet” and Tara’s theme from Gone with the Wind. The Memphis Chapter of Delta Waterfowl packed the U of M Holiday Inn’s ballroom for its seventh annual banquet. With events like these, the local chapter, one of the nation’s largest, hoped to meet its goal of raising $100,000 for waterfowl conservation, specifically to help raise funds for both predator management and a wildlife biology scholarship. On-hand to help out with the endeavor were the U of M cheerleaders, who sold hunting bags filled with valuable goodies. Mid-South pet owners had an opportunity to take care of their Christmas shopping for Felix and Rover at the third annual SPAYtacular, a party and auction held at The Parkview Ballroom. Animal lovers wolfed down eatables donated by Three Ladies and An Oven, Whole Foods Market and Julie Drewry, and perused the more than 200 pet-themed items to support Mid-South Spay and Neuter Services, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation by providing affordable spay and neuter services. Three members of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra provided the musical backdrop, while guests chatted, shopped and sipped on wine and beer donated by Star Distributors.
Craig Brewer and Carolyn Kuan at MSO Night with Craig Brewer
Lisa and Maurice Mendel at MSO Night with Craig Brewer
Story and photos by Don Perry and Lesley Young
Melody McAnally and John Lawrence at MSO Night with Craig Brewer
David and Harrison Lee at Delta Waterfowl Banquet
Ernie and Jennifer Dye at SPAYtacular
Shannon and Andrea George with Kembree Darakshani and Tony Brown at SPAYtacular
Maggie Brown and Jo Croner at SPAYtacular
THE
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HAMPTON DESIGNS CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
Chris Patterson, Laura Howell and Judy Leggitt at Gild the Lily
Rosemary Burns, Lisa Marcom and Hynie McDowell at Hampton Designs
LITTLE POSH CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
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Susan Murrow and Deborah Thornton at Tout le Monde
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Kimrey Garner and Michelle Peeler at Tout le Monde Steven, Brooke and Sophie Pomerenk at Little Posh
Sebastian, Brett, Benjamin and Anke Buckhold at Little Posh
Kathy Burns and Lori Tucker at Hampton Designs
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Heather Cope, Paula DeClerk and Beth Jennings at Hampton Designs
RSV PHILLIPPI
By Dennis Phillippi
HAVE IT THEIR WAY
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ive…five…five-dollar footlong. For several days last week, I had that jingle running through my head. The fast food chain in question buys a lot of media time on sports, so I see its commercials all the time. Best guess is the company figures people who watch sports a lot also eat a lot. Makes sense, I’ve sat next to tons of guys watching ball games who had obviously had a foot of something or other to eat that day. So, that very effective jingle eventually turned my car toward the restaurant. Okay, restaurant is a strong word. Most places that deserve that name don’t have the same style furniture as bus stations. Nonetheless, I headed to five-dollar footlong land. Turns out, I can’t eat a foot of anything. Not a sandwich, and as far as I can imagine, not a foot of anything. Unless you count beer. If a restaurant made beer in footlong lengths, I could manage one of those. But food? Actual food? No way. Six inches isn’t enough, and a foot is too much. If only a restaurant offered, say, an eight-and-a-half inch sub. Lately, the fast food world has apparently decided together that what Americans really want in these trying economic times is a five-dollar meal. Every one of the places seems to be offering basically the same thing—the equivalent to a sandwich, a side order and a drink for a fin. Not a bad deal, but it raises the question, how much were they making off this stuff when they were charging more? If they’re being such sweethearts to offer us this five-dollar bargain, why do I just feel resentful about the preceding four-plus decades of my life when they were ripping me off? A million years ago, when I dropped out of high school, my father told me I had to get a job. Clearly, I hadn’t thought the whole dropping out of high school thing through thoroughly. Within days of escaping the halls of West Charlotte High School, I found myself wearing a paper hat at the father of all fast food joints. We don’t make a habit of naming businesses around here, but let’s just say it is the biggest of the chains and has a Scottish sounding name. Believe it or not, this was a great experience, and not just as an instant karma sort of demonstration of what happens to people who
drop out of high school. This job, and not just because one of my sisters happened to be the manager, taught me a work ethic that probably would’ve come in handy in high school. It also taught me the value of having a system in place. In national restaurant chains, there is a manual, and if everything is done according to that manual, the place will run as smoothly as a Ron Childers weather tease. That’s the
In national restaurant chains, there is a manual, and if everything is done according to that manual, the place will run as smoothly as a Ron Childers weather tease. way life should be. If everything in life came with a manual, there wouldn’t be nearly as many fights in marriages, poorly raised children or humiliating pictures from the past on Facebook. The point of all that, and I did have one, is that I have nothing but respect for people who work in fast food restaurants. It’s sweaty, demeaning, badly compensated work without a shred of a reason to feel any personal ownership. It’s easy to understand why you’re not being greeted with enthusiasm by the mother of three who is sporting a nametag. I don’t even have a beef with the management of these places. They are expected to run their store out of the manual regardless of how that makes their employees feel. It’s the people at the corporate offices that snag my zipper. The corporate leaders of fast food chains follow their research, and their
research tells them that we will feel better if we think we’re getting a bargain, even if that bargain means they’re offering us the opportunity to cheaply buy ourselves a heart attack. Do I need a burger as big as my head and a drink large enough for me to swim in? Nope, but if you’re offering it to me at a discount, I’ll probably pony up. Pizza places are no different. If a pizza chain can offer me a pie for five bucks, what is it costing them to make the thing? There’s one pizza place that always offers pizzas for five clams. If it can make a profit, and I assure you it is, on fivebuck pies, why are the other places charging more most of the time? Because we’ll pay it, that’s why. We are all hypnotized by fast food commercials. They show these beautiful shots of piping hot fried food being enjoyed by healthy, happy, well-adjusted people who obviously have a terrific home life and a fulfilling career served to them by cheery kids with sparkling white teeth, and we troop like lock-stepped sheep to buy in. Sure, there’s going to be a bunch of gray-skinned obese people in line ahead of us, a surly drone behind the register operating in second gear and the food is going to be greasy, cold and deadly, but well…we’re already there and everything. May as well eat, even if we’re going to overpay for it. I understand that businesses have to charge what they can get for their products. That’s free commerce. That’s capitalism. That’s America. If we can’t rip one another off, then we’re no better than Switzerland. The business of America is the business of overcharging one another for things we don’t need or even really want. We’re a consumer culture, and we will consume everything we can. I’ve been sitting here writing about how much fast food chains grind my beans, and still all I can think right now is how much I want a burg or an eight-and-a-half inch sandwich.
Why does Dennis Phillippi have to hit us with a food story in the middle of the day? If only we knew what we were getting into before reading the humor column this month, we wouldn’t have skipped lunch or the crazy deals Phillippi’s inadvertently touting. Biggie size, super size, you name it, we all want it NOW!
After Hours
CRYE-LEIKE CHRISTMAS PARTY
A photo collage of the latest business happenings
AFTER HOURS
UT HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER’S CHANCELLOR’S HOLIDAY PARTY
HAPPI-STORES CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
Karl Schledwitz, Mary Relling, Bill Evans and Steve Schwab at UT Health Science Center
Helen Akin, Jim Pascover and Gwen Flaniken at Crye-Leike
Steve Bares, Rusty Johnson and Scott McCormick at UT Health Science Center
Amber Ellis, Tom Kimbrough, Becky Houston and Mike Mills at Crye-Leike
J A N UA R Y 2 010
Kyle, Carol and Richard Holley at Happi-Stores
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Sandra Farris and Shirley Riley at Happi-Stores
Monice Hagler, Jean and Pat Wall and Sylvia Brown at UT Health Science Center
Johnnie and Rex Amonette at UT Health Science Center
Stephanie Cooper, Bill Butler and Elizabeth Marchisio at Crye-Leike
Michelle VanHorn and Lauren Cunningham at Happi-Stores
Carol Stout, Cooper Turner, Sarah Scoggin and Kathryn Anne Matheny at Crye-Leike
RSVPAST
A Stylish Ride
J A N UA R Y 2 010
1930s
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W
hen Joanne (Stignani) Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Roark was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi during the 1930s, the hospital made a practice of sending new mothers and their babies home in an ambulance. On departure day, the hospital attendants dutifully loaded Joanne and her mother, Mary Stignani, into an ambulance and backed it across the street to their house, and they did the same for Joanne and her baby doll. PHOTO AND INFO COURTESY OF JERRY Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ROARK If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Leah Fitzpatrick at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.