RSVP Magazine October 2015--20th Anniversary! by RSVP Magazine

October 2015

Anniversary Issue

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OCTOBER 2015

ARRIVING SOON 2016 ATS-V COUPE

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Celebrating 40 Years!

CO N T EN T S

Contents October 2015

From the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Signature Memphis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Former Shelby County Sheriff and Mayor Bill Morris shares good life advice and his love for Memphis with RSVP.

20 Years with RSVP Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 A look into the last 20 years of party, event, nonprofit and community coverage in this little big town of Memphis.

Dreamgivers’ Gala. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Forever Young Senior Wish Organization honored senior veterans at Hilton Memphis by raising funds to send them on meaningful trips.

16 StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 & 24

Dreamgivers’ Gala Jed and Valorie Wheatley

The team that had Memphis invest in good times at the Tennessee Brewery is doing it again, but this time at the Station 3: The Memphis Firehaus. These two men are promoting blues music to a local Memphis audience at the first blues festival since 1969. Streetseens highlight Benjamin Orgel and partners as well as John Gemmill and Booker Brown.

Paw Prints Party Krista and Bill Freeman

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American Cancer Society Memphis Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The ACS held a dinner and live auction in order to raise money for the Hope Lodge, a program that offers free housing for cancer patients and their families.

Ambassador Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Milisa Valliere: Hearing Art

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Contributing writer Emily Adams Keplinger features Milisa Valliere, a former Memphis artist that creates beautiful works of art through the inspiring power of music.

Vox Popular. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Q&A with RSVP photographer Steve Roberts.

Around Town. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42, 50, 52 & 67

26 Live at the Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

American Cancer Society Memphis Gala Teri Jackson and Rusty Robinson

The Memphis Botanic Garden welcomed Rob Thomas, the Plain White T’s and fans for one installment of their annual outdoors concert series.

Zoo Rendezvous Drs. Craig Gordon and Purvisha Patel

Paw Prints Party. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Guests had a pawsitively pawsome time at this party at the Racquet Club of Memphis, hosted by the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County.

Zoo Rendezvous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Party animals arrived in droves to the Memphis Zoo’s largest fund-raiser with a Vegas theme this year, “Viva la Zoo!”

Art on Tap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Dixon Gallery & Gardens invited Memphians to indulge in the art of hops at this annual beer tasting for a good cause.

RSVPhillippi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Happy Birthday to Us

Live at the garden Amy and Joey Dudek

Dennis Phillippi takes us through the looking glass to a much simpler time before smart phones and DVDs, when grunge clothing and mullets were the fashion, and we all traveled interstates at a snail’s pace of 55 MPH.

Art on Tap Phillip Langsdon and Becky Burbeck

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RSVP Staff Volume XX

Number XIII

October 2015 publisher

Roy Haithcock Editor

Rachel Warren contributing writers

Bill Bannister Virginia Davis Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson art director

Krista Geyer photographers

Chris Pugh Account Executive

Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.

Gary Baldwin Nathan Berry Lynn Green Ann-Margaret Hedges Price Merritt Don Perry Steve Roberts OCTOBER 2015

account executives

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Chris Pugh Robin Morgan accounting

Ruth Cassin Editorial Intern

Ellen Cassin 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 Fax: 901-276-7785 E-mail: editor@rsvpmagazine.com

Robin Morgan Account Executive

Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious, and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girlfriends. Robin’s “bright spot” is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!

Krista Geyer Art Director

Krista has spent most her entire life in the Mid-South area. She moved home after earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University and is thrilled to be able to work on something as “Memphis” as RSVP magazine. When not working you can probably find Krista at Shelby Farms with her husband and her dogs or riding her horses.

RSVP Memphis Magazine

Ellen Cassin Editorial Intern

Ellen is a native Memphian who currently resides in Nashville. She received her Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Spring Hill College. Her interests include sports, public policy, and anything crafty. She is excited to be with RSVP as the editorial intern and in her spare time you can either find her with a book in her hand or playing with her dog, Mae.

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From the Editor

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e cannot believe it. This month RSVP Magazine turns 20! We are so happy to celebrate with you 20 years of going strong as the Mid-South’s best source for fund-raiser and event coverage. 1995 was the year publisher Roy Haithcock and original editor David Tankersley released the very first issue of RSVP Magazine, the first free publication in Memphis that focused exclusively on the parties, events and people that move the Bluff City. Haithcock and Tankersley took a risk that year, and the payoff has been having the honor of being the consistent voice of Memphis society and community. We have grown a lot over the years, but the magazine still follows the footsteps of these two men who decided the city deserved a free comprehensive publication that showcased the best of Memphis. RSVP is and has always been Memphis’ number one independent resource for the moments that make the city tick: its gatherings, parties, shindigs, hang outs, galas, balls, fund-raisers, call it what you will, what RSVP does is capture that moment in time when a community comes together, takes a break from the day-today grind and makes a human connection with the people that surround us. It is truly our honor to do this for you, our loyal readers, who have been following our growth from day one. Thank you for giving RSVP a chance. Thank you for snatching up every single issue each month, calling us for extras and then sending them off to out-of-town friends and family. Thank you for inviting us to cover your parties and gatherings. It could not have been done without you. We are privileged to help document the very human parts of Memphis, moments when we come together as a community to impact change, celebrate, party, fund-raise or just get together and share a meal. These are the moments when Memphis truly shines, and we don’t ever want to stop being a part of that. In this special 20th anniversary issue, we took a look behind the scenes at one RSVP photographer that has been making our magazine look cool for almost 19 years, Steve Roberts (page 34). Roberts not only photographs many of our editorial features, but he is also an avid music photographer that has captured music icons such as Paul McCartney, ZZ Top, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Ray Charles, and many, many more. Humor columnist Dennis Phillippi painfully reminds us what 1995 really looked like – mullets, shiny green suits and all (page 73). Don’t miss out on our RSVPast page (page 74), which features our fearless leader Roy Haithcock and David Tankersley in the Commercial Appeal, shortly after the first RSVP issue hit the stands. Thank you Memphis! Here’s to another 20 years!

Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com

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SIGN ATURE M EM PHIS

Bill Morris _____

Former Shelby County Sheriff and Mayor and Involved in St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Church Health Center, First Evangelical Church, Memphis Jaycees. Caregiver for my Wife of 62 Years, Ann. Hometown: Fulton, MS. Best Memphis Hangout: Home. Favorite Song: “How Great Thou Art.” Your Best Quality: A strong work ethic. Your Lucky Charm: Natural enthusiasm. Who Would Play You in a Movie: Kevin Costner. Favorite Southern Idiom: “Don’t cry over spilt milk.” First Car You Drove: 1934 Ford pickup truck at age 14.

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Place You Go to Think: Family farm or my upstairs office. Best Advice You Ever Got: If you start something, finish it. One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: Write a book. Proudest Moment of Your Life: The birth of our four children. Best Gift You Ever Received: Ability to “man up” when it counts. Who Inspires You: People who show courage in the face of adversity. Your Most Annoying Habit: Day dreaming when I should be listening. Coolest Thing About Memphis: No test required to feel at home, whatever your status in life. The Highlight of Your Day: Dinner with my wife Ann, daily prayer and playing card games with her.

Photo by Steve Roberts

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Favorite Place to Travel: West and North West America.

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MOST TRU Memphis’ MOST TRUSTEDMemphis’ since1868... RYAN ANDERSON

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An intimate look into the special moments and people RSVP has captured over the past 20 years

Wight and Thomas Boggs

Herbie OMell, Brad Martin, Laura OMell, Mike Starnes and Sylvia Berger

20 Years with RSVP Magazine

Larry Mallery with Lori and Mark Guyton

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Sam Phillips, Jerry Wexler and Jimmy Johnson

David Porter and Isaac Hayes

Eloise and John Paul DeJoria

Roy Haithcock and Michael Rivalto

Gayle Schrettle and Christine Ethridge with Mason and Jane Ezell

Bill and Pat Tanner

Cordell Jackson

20 Years with RSVP Magazine

John and Pat Tigrett

Joyce and Bernard Lansky

Charlie Ryan and Carrie Hoffman

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Carol and Jim Prentiss

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Adrienne and Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Army Bailey

Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue

Brooke Tweddell, Silky Sullivan and Beth Flanagan

Dean Jernigan and Lindsay Jernigan

Gail and Nick French

Buzz and Lois Aldrin

Diane and Fred Smith

20 Years with RSVP Magazine

Gordon Wakefield and Cathy Basch

John “Bad Dog” and Jana McCormack

Priscilla Presley and Jack Soden

Charlie Vergos with Karen and Gene Carlisle and Nick Vergos

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Kim Blankenship, Elaine Hare, Lafayette Draper and Sally Shy

Morgan Freeman, Valerie Morris and Bill Luckett

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Wayne Jackson and Andrew Love

Emma Jean Pierotti with Dr. Richard and Ellen Dixon

Isaac Tigrett, Don Nix and Veronica Valdez

Jimi Jamison and Sam “The Sham” Samudio

Dr. Rex and Martha Ellen Maxwell

Kemmons and Katherine Wilson

EVENT

Dream g ivers’ Gala

Benefiting Forever Young Senior Wish Organization

Dreamgivers’ Gala

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Chris and Morgan Hibbs

Phil and Florence Hollis

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Jim Browning and Jimmy Lovitt

Ariel Sereika and Janis Risley

earts swelled with patriotic pride as the Tennessee Ballroom at the Hilton Memphis filled with senior veterans and their family and friends. For the sixth year, the Dreamgivers’ Gala, hosted by nonprofit organization Forever Young Senior Wish Organization, paid homage to veteran servicemen with a night of dining and dancing. “When Forever Young was first founded, we worked to change the image of aging and redefine it with self-confidence, respect, and a hopeful life for seniors,” the organization’s founder and president, Diane Hight, said. Forever Young was founded in response to Hight’s reaction when she witnessed an elderly woman’s dream come true of driving a racecar. “Instantly, I knew this was what I wanted to do. I’ve had a passion for senior citizens my entire life,” Hight remarks. “The name, Forever Young, speaks for itself. No matter the age, a person always wants to feel young at heart.” The organization was founded to meet a huge need in the senior adult community. In October 2009, the mission of the organization changed to honoring senior veterans and sought to offer World War II veterans an opportunity to travel to the National WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C. Now hundreds of WWII, Korea and Vietnam veterans have also been honored with trips to Belgium, Italy, Normandy and Pearl Harbor. The sixth annual Dreamgivers’ Gala served as a fund-raiser to send senior veterans on these trips. The evening began with cocktails, a silent auction and a photo booth. Daniel Hight, executive director of Forever Young, welcomed the crowd of attendees, including special guest University of Memphis basketball coach, Josh Pastner. While guests dined, Pastner gave an appreciation speech to the veterans in attendance. Diane Hight made the presentation of the Jack Taylor Volunteer of the Year award, so named for the senior veteran who has tirelessly raised over $75,000 for the Forever Young organization. This year’s honoree was Glen Witham, who befriended an ailing veteran, accompanied him on a trip to Belgium and stayed with him during his final days in hospice. Witham said, “Having the opportunity to make that trip with one of the members of The Greatest Generation was like nirvana for me. It truly was a life-changing experience.” Guests were treated to a glimpse of what those trips are like through an emotionally moving video presentation called “Trips of Honor” that showcased moments from visits to the site of the Battle of the Bulge and to Italy, often referred to as “The Forgotten Campaign.” A live auction continued the evening’s fund-raising efforts with WHBQ-TV anchor Darrell Greene serving as auctioneer. Following the auction, a Grand Salute was given to veterans in the audience, calling on each service unit to be recognized. A special group of veterans, those who had been POWs, received a standing ovation. The evening continued with musical entertainment by the Memphis Jazz Orchestra. The event raised over $85,000 for Forever Young Senior Wish Organization. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Lynn Green

Bill Drewry, Theresa Drewry, Betty Mazyauski and Ruth Drewry

Daniel and Sarah Hight

Earl Harrell and Victor Robilio

Josh Pastner and Diane Hight

Donna and Tim Parker

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EVENT Dreamgiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gala

Mandy and Charles Weimar

Paul Coombs and Marilyn Kain

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Suzanne Ware and Susan Sullivan

Cindy and Byron Phillips

Camilla Wilson and Jim Frommel

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Matt and Wendy VanCleve

Danielle and Scott Gillis

Mike and Cheri Kilmurray

Peggy Killett and Wes Parker

Rob and Teresa Larsen

Robert Davidson and Flo Hogue

EVENT Dreamgiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gala

Jim and Cindy Staurides

Roy and Sheila Thrash

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Paige Eubank, Don Chanault and Heather Duncan

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Stacey and Darrell Greene

Heather and Ben Hight

Hugh and Pat Lamar

Colter Adkins and Lauren Macyauski

EVENT Dreamgiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gala

Karen and John Goggins

Sarah Vaughn and Becky Pearson

A.C. and Ingrid Taylor

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Joanna and John Greaud

Glen Witham and Jack Taylor

Chris and Helen Bird

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Marene and George Roberts

Jean and Steve Strong with Gail Duran

Virginia Cortese and Michael Zingale

Charlie and Melonie Pounds

Will and Louise Day

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Benjamin Orgel, JC Youngblood, Logan Scheidt and Paul Stephens Investing in Good Times Again at Station 3: The Memphis Firehaus

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he team that delighted the city with the Tennessee Brewery “Brewery Untapped” and “Revival” is doing it again with “Station 3: The Memphis Firehaus.” Benjamin Orgel, JC Youngblood, Logan Scheidt and Paul Stephens are setting out to bring new life to another historic Memphis building that has sat unused for many years, the Fire Station No. 3 located at 198 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. The four men found new owners for the Tennessee Brewery through a series of pop-up beer garden events on the brewery property in 2014 and 2015. Located right next to the FedEx Forum, the vacant firehouse is in a prime location to attract tourists and locals alike, and Orgel, Youngblood, Scheidt and Stephens are hoping to use the property’s location to its fullest potential by bringing new attention to the building through live music, food trucks, broadcasts of sporting events and a fall beer garden, hence the use of the German word “firehaus.” The Memphis Firehaus will be open to the public from October 1st through November 30th, Thursdays through Sundays. The old firehouse was built in the 1800s and then was briefly a nightclub and a recording studio by Chips Moman where Ringo Starr once recorded. It then sat empty for many years. Presently, Billy Orgel, father of Benjamin and Tower Ventures president, owns the property, and the team wants to show the city and beyond the building’s potential and, ultimately, find a proper owner for the building. Benjamin, project manager at Tower Ventures, says that when a city can demonstrate that its historic buildings are important through preservation or use of those properties “it looks good in the community but it also looks good to out-of-towners.” He adds, “If you see abandoned buildings, that is kind of a red flag for a city and may deter perspective business in the city. If you see a momentum in the city, like what happened at the Tennessee Brewery and what we are doing with The Memphis Firehaus, that really is a signal for full stream ahead.” Benjamin, Youngblood, Scheidt and Stephens agree that the Firehaus concept came from the immense success of the Untapped and Revival events. They each brought their unique talents and love for the city of Memphis to the table for the brewery events, and they plan to do the same for the firehouse, with an added sports flair given the building’s location. “We are all huge Grizz fans and, there was such a huge amount of enthusiasm during the playoffs throughout the brewery events so we thought, being right here next to the Forum, would be perfect. We are ready to kick-off the season and see some Grizz games and, hopefully, also find a good tenant for the building,” Youngblood, Central BBQ Downtown general manager, remarks. The team says that, additionally, the firehouse will be open for Tiger games, concerts at the FedEx Forum and other special events. “Really, we look at it as a community event. Same concept as the brewery, where we will have a bunch of different local beer, artists, musicians and food trucks involved. It is great for the locals to come hang out, but it is also great for tourism because in one spot we are able to showcase a lot of great Memphis talent,” Benjamin says. He says the best part of the brewery events was the crowd. “They came from all walks of life. It didn’t matter how young, how old, or what stage of life they were in, it was a place for every single person. That was really the best part. It was a community of Memphis without excluding one type of person.” Hopefully, he says, the firehouse will bring more of the same good people and good times. To add to the beer garden theme, the Station 3 team has joined forces with High Cotton Brewing Co. to throw High Cotton’s second annual Oktoberfest on October 3rd from noon to 6 p.m. at the firehouse. The festival will feature food from Central BBQ, music from the Dead Soldiers and, of course, High Cotton’s seasonal craft brews. Go to www.facebook.com/ station3memphis to find out more about this event and more Station 3: The Memphis Firehaus fun. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

Logan Sheidt, Benjamin Orgel and JC Youngblood at Station 3: The Memphis Firehaus

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streetseen

John Gemmill and Booker Brown

Blues Music is Not Dead: the Bona Fide Blues Festival

OCTOBER 2015

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n October 2nd and 3rd, Memphis will witness its first blues festival since 1969. Yes, you read that correctly, the home of the blues hasn’t seen an actual blues festival in 46 years. Fortunately, Memphis Blues Society saw that as a problem and decided to break that streak with the first annual Bona Fide Blues Festival. John Gemmill, Memphis Blues Society president, and Booker Brown, blues musician and Bona Fide festival performer, say that not only is this festival bringing blues music back home, but it is also setting the record straight: blues music is not dead. “I think a lot of the young generations, they don’t want to listen to the blues because they think the blues is dead. To me, the blues is for dancing and having fun. That is what I am all about, helping people understand that the blues is not dead. The blues is very much alive,” Brown says. Gemmill reiterates this sentiment, adding that blues music has a large audience in other areas but says Memphis locals are missing from that equation. Gemmill, comments “The Memphis Blues Society hosts blues jam session on Beale Street on Sundays. We see some Memphis people there, but 90 percent of the people in the audience are from out of town or out of the country. Everyone really enjoys it, but we realized that if we are going to make the blues work in Memphis, we have got to get a local Memphis audience.” Gemmill says that is what encouraged the Memphis Blues Society to not only throw a blues festival, but also to stage it where many locals are already hanging out: Overton Square. Furthermore, Gemmill explains, the performers featured at the Bona Fide Blues Festival are 100 percent working blues musicians from a 100mile radius of Memphis. It is the real deal – local blues musicians playing for local Memphians. There will be 44 acts on 5 stages with musicians like Ruby Wilson, Garry Burnside, Booker Brown, Sweet Angel, Barbara Blue, Ghost Town, and Shardé Thomas & The Rising Star Fife & Drum Band. Some performers on the roster rarely make appearances in Memphis, like Watermelon Slim, and some are a different kind of blues than most are familiar. For instance, Bill Abel, who plays country blues, or Shardé Thomas, who only performs with pipes and drums. Gemmill says those are the performers he is really excited about showcasing and exposing Memphians to. The festival will also be done in honor of Robert “Wolfman” Belfour, an influential American blues performer and Memphis resident who passed away this February. Brown and Gemmill both comment that they want this festival to not only expose Memphians to different types of blues music and local blues talent, but also they want to show people that the blues isn’t sad music. Brown says, “You know, when people hear about the blues, most people think it is sad music, but I am putting out the kind of blues that makes people happy, dance, and have fun. That’s what it is all about, everybody having fun and enjoying themselves.” Gemmill agrees, adding, “Blues music is the cure for the blues. If blues music made you sad, it would be long gone by now. Listening to the blues is the best way to get rid of your blues. It is about a good time.” Another point the Memphis Blues Society wants to emphasize, Gemmill says, is fair pay for blues performers and musicians. He says that the Society is being proactive in ensuring their performers are receiving fair pay for their appearances. “Blues music doesn’t make people sad, but playing the blues and trying to make a living doing it can cause the blues. There is no group of musicians that is more underpaid than blues musicians,” Gemmill says, noting that at the festival and other Memphis Blues Society shows, all performers will be paid fairly and, many times, paid more than what the performer is asking for. “It is like that Bible passage that says a prophet is never honored in his own land. We are trying to turn that around. We are trying to honor the musicians. We value these performers in this life and not just the next life,” Gemmill, says, showing that that this festival is more than something to do on your weekend but a way that Memphians can meet their living blues legends and celebrate our musical heritage together. Find out more about the Bona Fide Blues Festival performances and tickets at bonafidebluesfest.com. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

Booker Brown and John Gemmill at The Blue Monkey Midtown

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“Vintage Affair: A Toast to Life”

Jean Mathews and Jim Eikner

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American Cancer Society Memphis Gala

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American Cancer Society Memphis Gala

Emily and Tom Love

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he American Cancer Society (ACS) Memphis held its 19th annual Gala at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Jillian Foster served as the event chairman, and Rola Obaji was her co-chairman for the event, which was dubbed “Vintage Affair: A Toast to Life.” Stephen Reynolds, president emeritus of Baptist Memorial Health Care, was recognized as the 2015 honoree. The evening’s signature sponsors were Baptist Cancer Center and Caesars Entertainment. Star Distributors was the wine sponsor. Clint Cummins, vice president of corporate and distinguished partners for the ACS, gave the formal welcome. A black, white and silver color scheme set the stage for an elegant evening. A signature cocktail made of ginger beer, lime and rum offered a fizzy and slightly sweet start to the evening. Dinner was provided by Fascinating Catering and began with a spinach salad that included mandarin oranges and a vinaigrette dressing. A double entree of chicken and prime rib followed, with scalloped potatoes and a medley of steamed vegetables. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell Jr. was the host for the evening. Luttrell gave a personal testimony of how cancer had touched his family. He also reminded the crowd that the ACS was the largest private, not-forprofit supporter of cancer research. Its mission continues to be multi-fold – research, education, advocacy and service — and that there is a role for everyone to be able to show their support. This gala served as an ACS fund-raiser and will help support the Hope Lodge, where the ACS is “Giving Hope a Home.” Last year alone, Hope Lodge helped over 800 cancer patients and their families by offering over 9,600 nights of free housing. The family like atmosphere also offers a support system for cancer patients who are going through a shared experience. It strives to truly be a home away from home for patients and their families. Greg Coy, anchor for WHBQ-TV, served as auctioneer for the event’s live auction. In addition to live auction items like a dinner for eight by Cullen Kent, a platinum and diamond dragonfly pin from Mednikow Jewelers, and a trip to Telluride, Colorado, guests also bid on travel to New Orleans, Antigua and other locales in the event’s silent auction. And if travel wasn’t really your thing, there was an opportunity to “pretend,” with a session in a FedEx Flight Simulator. Additionally, a mystery wine pull gave guests an opportunity to take home a bottle of wine as another means of supporting the ACS by adding to the evening’s proceeds. The night concluded with an evening of dancing and entertainment by Al Paris & The Heartbreakers. The gala raised approximately $123,000 for the ACS. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Greg Coy and Erika Mand

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry

Steve Harris and Caroline Freeman

Amanda Wheeler and Dr. Zsila Sadighi

Dr. Stephen and Ann Reynolds

Renee and Gene Columbus

Mayor Mark and Pat Luttrell with Margaret and Luke Hill

Wardell and Geralyn Seals

OCTOBER 2015

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EVENT American Cancer Society Memphis Gala

Brenda and Jim Lanier with Paula and Harvey Gardner

OCTOBER 2015

Pam Harris, Alyssa Throckmorton and Jan Conwill

Wayne Sanders and Natalie Hughes

Theresa and Robert Hill

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Adrian Word and Trudy Pfisterer

Mia Fioranelli, Sarah Richie and Eileen Paternostro

William Franklin and Natalie Chamoun

Erin and Aaron Harris

Mark and Julia Montgomery with Martha and Joel Wood

EVENT

Shirley and Don Gravenor

Judy and Kim Johnson

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Ricky and Florence Busey

American Cancer Society Memphis Gala

Robert and Trenya Lewellen

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Alberto Cozza and Susan Thompson with Twanna and Deon Bates

Pam and Tim Martin

Carol and Billy Kutteh

EVENT American Cancer Society Memphis Gala

Travis and Jerianne Poe

Steve Schroeder and Jacqueline Luisa Maria Sparks-Davila

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Caroline Stuart and Becky Bailey

Sarah and Dexter Gates

Mike and Margie Neal

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Russell Farley and Sarah Bynum

Ozella Martin and Tammy Britton

Claire and Chris Harrison

Khris and Marti Downey

Sam Lynd and Sarah Burch

Carri and Sam Signore

OCTOBER 2015

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T he Amba ssa dor S eries OCTOBER 2015 RS VP

The Ambassador Series By Emily Adams Keplinger

Milisa Valliere: Hearing Art

rt thrills the senses. For artist Milisa Valliere, that phrase holds a different meaning. She has synesthesia, meaning that her senses work differently from other people. She explains it by saying that some of her senses were “merged” at birth. Valliere and her husband, Roland, are picking up stakes and moving from Memphis to Cape Cod. Along with her unique artistic talent, Valliere is taking with her the memories and experiences of Memphis, ones that will surely inspire her future works. In a case of nature versus nurture, Valliere was born with an unusual ability to translate music that she hears into colors that she sees. Add to that ability an upbringing by two parents, Earl Vincent Boley and Sally Jane Virgilli Boley, both of whom were artists, and it is no wonder that Valliere found her life’s path led her into the artistic arena. Valliere’s husband, Roland, is CEO of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. As can be imagined, Valliere’s special talent, and being married to a symphonic CEO, has brought another dimension to her paintings. “Starting with my move to Columbus in 2010, Roland began picking out a recording daily, something unknown to me, and I began painting to whatever Photo by Emily Adams Keplinger piece he had chosen,” said Milisa. “It was According to Valliere, her family moved like shining a light on a piece of music for me, around a lot, living wherever they wanted to paint. everyday. We moved to Memphis two years ago, Their travels took them to Northern California and we still continue this process for me.” “Cape Cod is not a place I ever imagine near Sacramento, to Woodstock, New York, to the living, but I can say the same thing about Kansas southern region of France. City, Columbus, Ohio and Memphis,” Valliere says. “When I was 10-12 years old, my parents, with five kids in tow, traveled around Europe,” “But I haven’t been disappointed by any of them. And I think Memphis will be the standard by which Valliere recalls. “We had a VW van and for the most part we camped. I remember that we would I will measure my new realities in Cape Cod.” “I’ve lived surrounded by art all of my usually stay in a chateau, or with friends, once life,” Valliere explains. “My father’s style was very a week so that we could shower. It was a very French Impressionistic. He was a member of the Bohemian experience. We were definitely not Art Student League in the 1970s. My mother’s the stereotypical Americans–and for that, the style was more aligned with the 1960s expressionEuropeans loved us.” Throughout her years in public school, ist movement, very drippy with movement.” By the tender age of 4, Valliere was Valliere took art classes. She continued with art as making her own work known, going door-to-door a focus of her studies until she left college after selling sketches and artwork in her neighborhood her first year due to the death of her mother. And her nomadic life style has continued. in Pittsburgh. “I made a tray like a cigarette lady from Being married to her husband, who is recognized as the movies, and walked about selling my artwork a “turnaround specialist” in the symphonic field, for three cents or a nickel,” Valliere chuckles. “It has meant the couple moves where Roland’s work doesn’t seem like much now, but back then you takes them. They lived in Kansas City for 15 years, could buy a lot of candy for a nickel.” where Milisa says she created “her perfect world.”

“From my Tudor house to my romantic garden, our home there filled my senses so completely,” Valliere says. “And I had a gallery in Kansas City. When Roland accepted a position in Columbus, I stayed behind for several months and found I could no longer paint. In fact, I didn’t paint anything for five months.” To rouse herself from her artistic slump, Valliere says she “tricked” herself with a self-imposed exercise – she played the Bob Dylan album “Time Out of Mind,” and challenged herself to complete a piece by the time the CD was finished. It worked and she set out on a task to paint 100 paintings in 100 days. At the end of that time, she threw a big party, made her art available and accessible, and sold all 100 paintings in 87 minutes. Valliere says, “Before that slump, I was painting in a pretty realistic style, more aligned with my father’s style of work. But I found I had to move faster to keep up with painting within the timeframe of a CD, which averages about an hour in duration. Those 100 days are what I like to call my ‘Fast & Furious’ period.” In addition to changing her style of painting, this exercise was also the beginning of Valliere’s awareness of the impact music had on her art. “The paintings were getting bigger and very abstract,” Valliere notes. “It wasn’t just that I was moved by the music, I began to recognize that my mind was tying a color to a note. At first, I didn’t really want to know how or why this was happening. I didn’t want to risk losing this ability. But as time went on, I learned about synesthesia, and came to understand that I had always been this way. I simply process what I hear differently from most people.” “Leaving Memphis is bittersweet,” Valliere continues. ”I made many good friends so quickly here. My life has been almost as dark and black as it comes, but then I have these magical epiphanies of light moments, like our time here in Memphis. The contrasts, much like a painting, is what makes you appreciate the good times. I know my time here will continue to influence my future artwork. But I think what will stick with me most is the patina of Memphis. It has such a sense of authenticity about it.” To see what Milisa Valliere paints when she hears music, visit her website at inspiredbymusic.mvalliere.com. Double-click on any of the paintings, and you can hear the music that inspired each work of art.

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Vox Po p ular

Q&A with Steve Roberts

n celebration of RSVP’s 20th year anniversary, we decided to take a closer look at one of the people behind the scenes who has helped make RSVP what it is today. Photographer Steve Roberts has been photographing the city’s finest events and making RSVP’s editorial features look cool for the last 19 years. Roberts is also an avid music photographer who has also been documenting music for the past 35 years with brilliant images that illuminate the soul, complexity and courage of Memphis music, as well as those that come to perform in the city that gave birth to the music that changed the world. Paul McCartney, Rolling Stones, Al Kapone, Crosby, Stills & Nash, B.B. King, Aerosmith, Stevie Ray Vaughn, are some of the great icons his camera has captured, some which are included in this story. RSVP editor Rachel Warren caught up with Roberts to chat about the beginnings of his photography obsession, the people and memories he has captured along the way, and what this relentless photographer is working on now.

RSVP: How did you get interested in photography?

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Roberts: I was a truck driver in 1976. I got the chance to go to Russia with my wife at that time. I had always been interested in photography, but I had never owned a camera. I bought a Minolta SRT for the trip. It was a very cheap camera with a 50-millimeter lens go camera. I shot in black and white film, and, to this day, those are some of the best images that I have shot.

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RSVP: Why are those your favorites? Roberts: It is sort of like your first love. They were my first photos. That is how I got started in photography. When I came back, I set up a dark room in my house. In 1979, the truck line I worked for went out of business. I painted houses for about a year and took odd jobs, doing whatever I could. Finally, I just said I am going to print some cards up and be a photographer. In 1980, I was photographing full time. I have been shooting since then. There have been some lean years, but I started photographing concerts because I was interested in music. The first concert I ever shot was the Blues Brothers on July 10th, 1980. I just started sneaking my camera into shows and photographing different shows. Bob Kelly with MidSouth Concerts called me one day, saying he wanted to see me. I thought I was in trouble. I went down there, and Bob was looking at my work. He said, “Well, apparently my security people can’t stop you from coming in, so why don’t I give you a ticket to every show that I do and a photo pass, and you give me one picture from your shoot.” I got to shoot through the 80s at Mid-South Coliseum, all the shows practically that Bob did. I met Jim Holt, now the president of Memphis in May, who worked for Bob Kelly at the time. I became good friends with Jim, and he opened a lot of doors for me. He was very instrumental and influential. I also met Jim Green, who worked for Bob at the time and went on to work for Beaver Productions. I

still work for Jim Green, shooting concerts at the Snowden Grove. I don’t think my success has anything to do with my concert work. I happened to be at the right place at the right time. I came along, and Memphis’ rich musical heritage opened doors for me. I met the owner of the New Daisy, Mike Glenn. I used to shoot all his shows down at his place. He was always very kind to me. I have been a member of National Academy of Recording Arts and Science (NARAS) since the early 90s, and Jon Hornyak, NARAS senior executive director, has also opened a lot of doors for me. RSVP: You also got to shoot Paul McCartney?

to work with them. Aerosmith loves Memphis. They came in three days before their concert. They wanted me to come down to The Peabody Hotel every morning, hang out with them all day long and take pictures around Memphis. Soon after, I got a call one day in my studio, and a man asked if I would shoot some passport photos. I said no and tried to tell him some places that would. The man said, “I can’t take these guys to anywhere like that.” When I asked why not, he said, “It’s the Rolling Stones.” I quickly replied that I could do that for them. So I shot the Rolling Stones’ passport photos. We set up backstage, and they came in one at a time. I got to stay and shoot the show. It was an amazing thing. I shot some backstage stuff with each of the Rolling Stones. I just thought, “How could this happen!?” RSVP: Were the Rolling Stones just as energetic backstage as they are on stage?

Roberts: Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards were great. They just seemed like they were enjoying it. Mick Jagger had a 102 fever that day, and he wasn’t feeling good, so he was not in a good mood. I don’t hold that against him. He did the entire show with a fever. After that, I got to do an Elvis Photo by: Don Perry Costello album cover that was live at the Hi-Tone Café. I have done Roberts: Yes, I got to shoot the Paul covers for The Memphis Horns, as well as Son McCartney show out at the Liberty Bowl of Slam, Saliva, Gangsta Boo, Three 6 Mafia, Stadium in 1992. I was shooting that show for Project Pat, Lil’ Whyte, and several for Al Bob Kelly, and, after the show was over with, Kapone. Through the years, I have done work I got a tap on my shoulder. This little girl, for a lot of different rappers. 8Ball & MJG were who turned out to be Mary McCartney, said the first rappers that I photographed. After Linda McCartney wanted to see me backstage. that, I did a photo shoot with Al Kapone, and She took me back to the backstage area. Paul then, boom, everyone started calling. I am still McCartney introduced himself to me, as if I involved with photographing rap artists. I did wouldn’t know who he was. I was dumbfounded. a photo shoot with Al Kapone this year. I am Linda was a photographer as well and said she still shooting concerts down at Snowden Grove liked the way I worked, and they wanted to and have photographed Foreigner and the know if I could travel with them a bit. I traveled Steve Miller Band this year. I will be there for with them for a week or so because part of their Bryan Adams. In the past, I have photographed Southern tour wasn’t covered. Working with Widespread Panic, Dave Matthews Band, Kenny McCartney opened up so many opportunities Chesney, Brad Paisley and Jason Aldean. I also for me because, within a year of that happendo photography for At Home Memphis & Miding, I got a call from Aerosmith’s management South Magazine and shoot weddings.

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OCTOBER 2015

RSVP: Who has been your favorite person to photograph?

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Roberts: My favorite has to be Paul McCartney because he was the same everyday, day in and day out. He was always respectful of everyone. He knew the name of everyone on tour with him. He would ask me every morning, “Steve, did you sleep well?” I never saw him say a harsh word to anyone. He seemed like he was at peace with himself. Actually, there are very few people that I have shot that weren’t great. Everyone has a different personality, and I have enjoyed all of them. B.B. King hired me to go shoot the opening of his club out in L.A. That was amazing because there were all these Memphis people there like Little Jimmy King, Isaac Hayes, Mavis Staples, Sam Moore, The Gales Brothers and Billy Preston. B.B. King had a group of people backstage, Isaac Hayes and Rufus Thomas and the whole crew. B.B. wanted to get a group picture. The L.A. photographers started to jump in to get the picture. B.B. said, “Wait a minute. I am going to give everybody a turn, but I want Steve to go first.” Somebody kind of grumbled about this and asked who I was. B.B. said I am going to tell you who he is. He said, “He is one of my Memphis boys.” I thought, that is some kind of honorary degree right there. After the show was over, I headed up back to my hotel, which was only about a half a mile away. A car pulled up beside me with the windows rolled down. I heard a booming voice that said, “Hey, where you going?” I looked around, and it was Isaac Hayes in the car. I said I am going to my hotel. He told me to get in the car. I will never forget what he said next. Isaac

Stevie Ray Vaughn

B.B. King

Ray Charles

Hayes said, “You from Memphis, you don’t have and Signature Memphis editorial features. Roy to walk.” So I rode to the hotel with Isaac Hayes. took a chance on me and that opened a lot of doors too. RSVP: How did you get involved with photographing for RSVP Magazine? RSVP: You are self-taught in photography. Did you have any mentors along the way? Roberts: I have been shooting for RSVP almost 19 years. I knew David Tankersley, the original Roberts: Bill Dawson and Mark Istvanko helped editor. I met Roy Haithcock, RSVP publisher, me a lot. I learned a lot by trial and error. These people would always take the time to answer my through Tankersley. RSVP asked if I would questions. Bill could tell me over the phone how like to shoot a party. I had done commercial to light something. And he was always right. work for Piggly Wiggly, Seessel’s, and Big Star Tom Prestigiacomo, who was a DJ at FM 100, Markets and another giant food chain out in sent a lot of work my way and got me into a North Carolina. I did that for several years and many concerts. He was the first one to introduce was shooting music on the side. I made a lot me to Bruce Springsteen. He also got me in to of money shooting products and cans of soup see Elton John. I have been shooting with phofor advertising uses. One day, the company that employed me for the commercial shoots told me tographer Ralph Crafton for over 30 years, and we have done all kinds of shoots together. He is they were unable to use me anymore because my right hand man. it had been sold. Overnight, I lost my biggest account. As luck would have it, two weeks later my other large account went bankrupt. In the RSVP: What do you enjoy shooting most for period of two weeks, I lost a huge chunk of my RSVP? income. I was forced to close my studio. I was at a very low point. It just so happened that Roy Roberts: I have enjoyed, I am just going to go ahead and say it, shooting the RSVP StreetSeens called me up and asked me to shoot a party for more than the music I photograph. That is him. I did, and, from there, I started shooting parties for RSVP. For 12 years, I shot most of because the StreetSeens are so varied. We have the home interior features for RSVP, and I even- shot some really cool stuff from every area of tually began shooting the magazine’s StreetSeens life. I always enjoy shooting the musicians that we do. I love doing any of the artists. I have always enjoyed photographing people that did something different, something a little different from a 9 to 5 job. Take a look at Roberts’ collection of photography at steveroberts.zenfolio.com.

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An Evening with Jeffrey Osborne: 45th UNCF Gala Concert

OCTOBER 2015

Story Submitted | Photos by Harrison Williams LeMoyne-Owen College (LOC) presented the 45th UNCF Gala Concert at Minglewood Hall featuring headlining artist Jeffrey Osborne. Osborne performed before a sold out crowd of more than 750 fans as well as UNCF and LOC supporters and opened the show with his 1983 smash, “We’re Going All the Way.” He sang his biggest hits, including “Baby Stay With Me Tonight,” “Only Human” and “On the Wings of Love.” The event theme was cabaret, and the attire was “Harlem Nights Cocktail.” The hit movie “Harlem Nights” was a popular gangster-era film that featured 1920s attire. The gala concert was also about honoring those who have enriched LOC through service, generosity or scholarly contributions. The 2015 Beacon of Hope Award recipient was the 11th president of LOC, Johnnie B. Watson. Watson was honored for his stellar 55-year career in education and his outstanding leadership as LOC president. Watson retired as LOC president this past August, after nine years in office. Dr. Andrea Lewis Miller is the current president and is the first woman to ever serve as president at LOC. The UNCF Gala Concert is an annual benefit for Edythe and Terry Cobb United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and LOC. Proceeds fund scholarships for deserving students and help LOC keep tuition costs affordable. The concert was the grand finale to the Hank Aaron Celebrity Sports Weekend that featured three other fund-raisers: a celebrity golf tournament, a 5K race and a celebrity sports breakfast with Elliot Perry.

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Johnnie B. Watson, Dr. Andrea Lewis Miller and Jeffrey Osborne

Mickell and Chanisa Lowery

Yvonne and David Acey

Lisa and Ernest Nelson

Damou Traore, Latrice McClorn, Daphne Thomas, Janay Johnson and Steven Beecher

Playhouse on the Square Great Wine Performances

Ashley Peisher

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren Playhouse on the Square threw its eighth annual Great Wine Performances, “a wine tasting in ten acts.” The event is unique in that, instead of your typical wine tasting, Playhouse combines trivia with fantastic wine. Every year, Playhouse chooses a theme for this annual wine tasting turned game, and this year the theatre chose the theme of “Broadway vs. Hollywood.” Guests made their way through 10 different wine stations in the theatre, trying to identify all 10 shows that Playhouse thespians represented through costumes and performed “clues” (acquired through donated “bribes”) as they sipped on select wines from West Tennessee Crown Distributing Company and sampled a variety of paired cheeses. Guests then had to guess whether the movie version or the Broadway version of the performance came first for the chance to win over 70 different prizes. Macy’s was the Event Super Sponsor, along with many other local businesses that showed support for the theatre.

Travis Bradley, Donna Sue Shannon and Jordan Nichols

Libby and Andy King

Ashley Dahler and Chris Martin

Marc Gill and Brooke Papritz

Dimple and Jay Kumar

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EVENT

Live at the Garden

Rob Thomas with the Plain White T’s

Live at the Garden

OCTOBER 2015

Brooke and Ashley Ennis

Ray Slater and Lindsey Eddy

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he Encore VIP room at Memphis Botanic Garden was filled with fans enjoying cocktails and an appetizer buffet prior to the Live at the Garden show featuring Rob Thomas and the Plain White T’s. Presented by Duncan Williams, a large crowd gathered for the highly anticipated performance. CFY Catering laid out the spread, which included “Late Night” burgers, chicken skewers with chimichurri, fresh fruit, as well as summer tostadas with avocado tomato relish and Tabasco crema, and southern sliders with braised pork, greens and crushed red pepper aioli. Lemon squares with fresh blueberries and Grasshopper brownies were available for those with a sweet tooth. Some guests included Dr. Nancy Chase, Babbie Lovett, and Donna and Pat Hoffman. The glass back wall of the room afforded a sweeping view of a portion of the garden’s densely wooded area. Other guests included long-time season ticket holders and Jay and Maureen Myers who settled around cocktail tables where they enjoyed the scenery. “It’s a fun area,” architect Barry Yoakum said. Yoakum’s firm, Archimania, designed the new stage and VIP area. As the start of the concert grew near, concertgoers took their seats on the lawn when the first of two opening acts, Vinyl Station, began to play. Next up, the Grammy-winning band the Plain White T’s took the stage and wrapped up their set with a sing-along to their famous single, “Hey There Delilah.” The crowd cheered and many leapt to their feet when Thomas was announced and appeared dressed in all black. “You don’t know about my love affair with Memphis,” he began. Thomas promised the crowd a two-hour show, a promise he kept. “Everybody here, from the front row to the back, has a choice,” he said. “You can have a good time – hey, you paid for it – or you can give yourself over to the moment. We’re going to leave here tonight having shared a moment.” Thomas’ performance covered a lot of ground. He started out with a few songs from his newly released album, “The Great Unknown.” Then the band broke into a bluegrass tune followed by an Elvis hit, “That’s All Right.” As the concert went on, he also played David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance,” and gave his fans a taste of some of the songs he performed in his days as the lead singer of Matchbox Twenty. The crowd left with smiles on their faces, looking forward to the next Live at the Garden performance. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

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Story by Suzanne Thomspson Photos by Don Perry

Molly Fitzpatrick and Kristen Waddell

Mary Helen and Mark Butler

Rusty Robinson and Teri Jackson

Emma Blair and Lily Merriman

Chris and Cathy Jameson with Bonnie and David Thornton

Marnie and Kevin Wilkins

OCTOBER 2015

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EVENT Live at the Garden OCTOBER 2015

Ann and Mack Andrews

Mary Myers and Lily Cleveland

Mike and Jessica Simpson

Dr. Debbie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Cain and Roland Barnes

Kati and Rees Hodges

Jeanne Massey and Tim Ross

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Kie and Jeff Hill

Bob and Laurie Phillips with Kayla Phillips and Michael Pitts

Whitney Ziegenhorn and Olivia Pletz

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EVENT Live at the Garden

Carly and Dan Hahn

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Martha and Mike Hess

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Katherine and Mark Baricos with Robert and Heather McIntire

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Brandy Cowles and Kathey Wise

Kelly and Pearson Crutcher

Evelyn McDonald and John Wigley with Whitney and Terez Wilson

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Allison and Dave Swilley

Rowena and Raul Cardenas

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Susan G. Komen® Memphis Mid-South Survivor Celebration

OCTOBER 2015

Story and Photos by Ellen Cassin The University of Memphis Hilton Inn was awash with a sea of pink for the Susan G. Komen® Memphis Mid-South Survivor Celebration. Women and men of all ages were there to show their support as either a survivor or loved one of someone that has battled breast cancer. Claudia Barr of WREG-TV was the mistress of ceremonies and was there to introduce Teresa Cowgill and Erica Bills, both survivors, as they shared their inspiring testimonies with the audience. There was a true feeling of love and support in the room while Kenny Lackey entertained with his great dance moves and spot-on impressions. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell was in attendance, offering his greetings and encouragement to the crowd. Sponsors of the event included James Middleton Jeweler, who donated 20 percent of their proceeds from the day to Susan G. Jenny Nevels, Teresa Cowgill Komen® Memphis Mid-South. JC Penny set up an area for mini-makeovers, offering and Pam Crislip free hairstyles and manicures for guests. Baptist Cancer Center, UT West Cancer Center, and Raymond James also teamed up for the cause. Since 1993, the Memphis Mid-South affiliate of Susan G. Komen® has provided over $9.4 million in direct grants to breast health service providers in the Mid-South, as well as $2.4 million for breast cancer research.

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Brianna Bills, Erica Bills, Nikki Huffman and Taylor Huffman

Susie Wells, Debbie Phillips and Pam Johnson

Debby Williams and Lou Anne Falanga

Alese Pewitt and Rita Holden

Dr. Stephen Edge and Lorraine Wolf

Rock For Love 9 Kickoff Party Story and Photos by Bill Bannister A good time was had by all who attended the second annual kickoff party for Rock For Love 9 at Huey’s Midtown. Rock for Love is a fund-raiser for the Church Health Center. The festival’s 2015 Crosstown block party brought together more partners and features more stages than ever before with singer-songwriters at Amurica Photo studio, punk and rock music at the Hi-Tone, hip-hop performance art and experimental electronic music at two Crosstown Arts spaces and an outdoor stage sponsored by Visible Community Music College. Attendees of the kickoff party included local luminaries like Charles Lawing, and Church Health Dr. Scott Morris Center founder and CEO, Dr. Scott Morris. The Chalkies, who performed everything from Eric Clapton to Paul McCartney, provided music for the evening. The party was hosted and emceed by Jeff Hulett, Church Health Center communications manager, and everyone enjoyed Huey’s world famous food and libations.

Savannah Patton and Anna Wohlbold

Amanda Griffin, Jeff Hulett and Michael Spirit Witzman

Leslie Davidson and Charles Lawing

Randy Norwood and Della Marino

Justin Entzminger, Elizabeth Cawein and Megan Carolan

OCTOBER 2015

51 RS VP

Over the Edge for Special Olympics Greater Memphis Story and Photos by Virginia Davis Wearing harnesses, gripping ropes and hitching pulleys, 58 adventurers launched down 30 stories of the One Commerce Square Building, also known as the iBank Tower, to serve a high purpose. They went “Over the Edge” for Special Olympics Greater Memphis and lived to talk about it. “I’m going for it,” Wendy Hannah announced, her gumption spurred by love for Alex, her son and a Special Olympics athlete. “We’ll go down together,” Marvin Schaefer said, nodding at his wife, Amy. The Schaefers’ son Andy is a Special Olympics athlete and their cheerleader when the going gets tough. “C’mon, Mom! C’mon, Dad! You can do it,” he yelled during their dual descent. The adventurers raised approximately $90,000 in donations to benefit Special Olympics Greater Memphis. The nonprofit organization provides sports training and athletic competition programs to individuals with intellectual disabilities. “We’re going ‘Over the Edge’ for Special Olympics,” emcee Brodee Scott of local radio station 101.9 KISS-FM shouted. Those daring to go over the rooftop’s rim included Special Olympics athletes Chad Quinton and Laura Moore. Members of Watoto Memphis Performing Arts Academy performed an Angie Middlebrook and Andrea Lum energetic dance routine during the event. Some climbers zipped down the wall. Others paused to fling their arms out, exulting in the experience. “It was worth every minute,” Julian Prewitt declared after his exhilarating jump. Presenting organizations included AlphaGraphics, BNSF Railway Co., BrownDog Lodge, Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Memphis, Cushman & Wakefield and Downtown Memphis Commission.

OCTOBER 2015

Andy, Amy and Marvin Schaefer

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Ashley Earle and Wendy Hannah

Hall Prewitt and Julian Prewitt

Hardin Annual Dinner Story and photos by Emily Adams Keplinger With the theme “Salvation Army Roots Can Grow Giants” the 2015 Hardin Annual Dinner, presented by The Salvation Army of Memphis and First Tennessee Bank, brought hundreds of supporters to Memphis Botanic Garden to hear featured keynote speaker NBA All-Star, Champion and Hall of Fame honoree Julius “Dr. J” Erving. The evening took its cue from Erving’s illustrious career as a basketball legend, with a program that paralleled a game format. Josh Pastner and Bryan Jordan Guests arrived at the garden for the “pre-game” activities in the Herb Garden for a Social Engagement Hour sponsored by The Commercial Appeal. Kim and Bryan Jordan served as the annual dinner chairmen and Bryan gave “The Hall of Fame and Tip-Off” recognition of the event sponsors. The evening’s “MVP” was Traci Bowles, a Renewal Place resident. Brad Martin took the stage in “The Lineup” to introduce Dr. J, who spoke about having a “Game Plan for Life.” Dr. J was presented with a jersey that featured his number and the Memphis Salvation Army shield. Proceeds from the event will be used to support homeless families that find shelter and safety at The Salvation Army’s Purdue Center of Hope.

Chuck Siegfried, Kim Cherry, Dee Dyer and Tom Dyer

Jonathan Rich, Barbara Rich and Julius “Dr. J” Erving

Mike Repischak

Angela Fulton, Terrance Mayes, Christina Surratt and Olivia Fraser

Vine to Wine at the Garden: My Big Backyard BBQ Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Although the My Big Backyard area of Memphis Botanic Garden was designed for children, it was adults who roamed the grounds during the Vine to Wine at the Garden: My Big Backyard BBQ. As guests sampled various vintages, they meandered through the area that contains many unique features like a Hobbit’s house and literal flower beds, complete with headboards and footboards. The 2.5 acre space was designed for family play and learning. Educational markers provide information pertinent to each Carla Brown and Tawanna Hopson display, like tips about green living and carpooling. Local artisans sold their wares, such as handmade jewelry and soap, on the wrap-around porch of The Guest House, an education building where wine was offered. Each Vine to Wine event takes place in a different part of the Garden from March through October, and each has a different theme. Central BBQ catered this particular barbecued-themed Vine to Wine event. Live music was provided by Minor Street Strings, which played a combination of folk, bluegrass, Americana and rock on stringed instruments. Proceeds from the Vine to Wine series benefit the Garden’s education and environmental programs.

Mark and Mary Helen Butler with Caroline and Allen McCool

Sheela Noonan, Jim Beck and Phillip Winter

OCTOBER 2015

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EVENT

Paw Prints Party

Helping Memphis’ Furry Friends

Paw Prints Party

OCTOBER 2015

Daniel Wilson and C.J. Hoppers

Larrie Rodriguez and Michael Ingalsbe

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umane Society of Memphis & Shelby County always throws a purrfect party fit for any animal lover. This year the organization held its annual Paw Prints Party at the Racquet Club of Memphis, where guests enjoyed a silent and live auction, wine pull, music, and the company of some four-legged friends. As guests entered, they were greeted by “The Toothless Wonder,” Biscuit, a rescued Chihuahua, and other rescued dogs taken in by the society. Many of the dogs had amazing stories of transformation and growth, with posters of the animals’ “before” photos hung beside them, a sharp contrast to the healthy and happy dogs greeting partygoers. The wine pull was a popular stop. For a $20 donation per bottle, guests chose a numbered cork at random and received a bottle bearing the same number. A select number of lucky partygoers went home with a valuable bottle of wine, and those who didn’t still went home with some quality wine. A wine country getaway package also tempted oenophiles, offering those who entered the chance to attend a VIP tasting and touring for four individuals at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards and The Olive Press in Sonoma, California. The silent auction had a little of something for every animal lover such as pet carriers, entries to a Fast and Furriest 5K, four passes to the Memphis Zoo, a Millington Animal Hospital Dog/Cat Spay and Neuter gift certificate, animal photography by Peggy Foster, and a handcrafted modern cat tree for the posh cat owner. Auctioneer Terri Walker of Walker Auctions turned up the heat during the live auction, getting the crowd bidding on some unique items, including original art by Paul Edelstein, a “Rockin’ Concert Two-Pack” package to see Bryan Adams and the Steve Miller Band at Snowden Grove, a “Backyard BBQ Bash for 25” catered by One & Only BBQ, a “Live at the Garden Concert Two-Pack” to see Martina McBride and Hall & Oates at Memphis Botanic Garden, and, a crowd favorite, the “Wheel-BAR-ow of Wine & Liquor, a wheelbarrow full of select spirits from Star Distributors. Chef Erling Jensen surprised the crowd by also offering to prepare dinner for six with paired wine at his restaurant, Erling Jensen Restaurant, to the highest bidder. After an elegant seated dinner, the party animals danced to the “downtown sound” of party band Front & Beale. The Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County rescues and provides medical care to animals that have been injured, abused, or out of time at their shelter. The society also works tirelessly to prosecute animal cruelty and provide proactive community spay/neuter services. The organization is a private nonprofit and receives no government funding and is supported by animal lovers like those that attended the Paw Prints Party. Over 380 guests attended this event and $118,000 was raised for animals in need. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Debbie Newsom and Katie Pemberton

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Nathan Berry

1st Lieutenant Ross Feaster and Shannon Schilling

Verity Goodell and Rob Bledsoe

Curtis and Elizabeth Griffin

Amy Clower and Zelda

Katie Pennel, Bitsy and Reagan Kucera

Kent and Dana Farmer

OCTOBER 2015

55 RS VP

EVENT Paw Prints Party

Barry and Amanda Densford

Haley West and Myles Parma

OCTOBER 2015

Donna and Mark Bettison

Tom Kresyman and Lauren Smith

Donna Infurchia and Matt Sellers

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Kathleen and Michael Goldberg

Katherine Dunbar-Smith and Billy George

Rick and Susan Clifford

Ashley and Sterling Fisher

Jessica Tatum and Andrea Magness

Monte Clair and James Green

EVENT Paw Prints Party

David and Pearl Pollow with Jackie and Randy Fishman

OCTOBER 2015

Buck Silver and Susan Breymaier

Emily and Chip Minger

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Emily Edwards, Arpana White, Joelle Pittman and Angle Flores

Michelle and Clayton Pattat

John Sanders and Jessie Isbell

EVENT Paw Prints Party

Chuck Strong, Sox and Barbara Strong

OCTOBER 2015

Stephanie Andrews and Lenny

Debra and David Aquadro

Michelle Lewis and Marc Badrian

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Kolby and Megan Young

Mary Clayton Garavelli, Ashley Skelley and Molly Monroe

Robin and Phillip May

John and Kierstein Toth

Brianna Siebert, Jojo and Megan Toeller

EVENT Paw Prints Party

Tim and Maria Garrett

Delia McPherson and Judy Young

Meghan Wetterer and Hank Verrell

Robyn and Dr. Jack Maxwell

Chris Miller and Candace Britt

Gary and Shannon Mullins

Lisa Gill and Todd Williams

OCTOBER 2015

Ed and Debbie Farler

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Goutham Ramdas, Tracie Koebcke and Ben Allen

Julia and Rick San Roman

Stanton and Bunny Thomas

Blake Elizabeth Means, Christina Oppenhuizen and Jessica Posey

Cindy Tobin and Napoleon Overton

Catherine Billups and Steven Ambrose

EVENT

Zoo Rendezvous “Viva la Zoo”

Zoo Rendezvous

OCTOBER 2015

Inger and Jim McColgan

Mark Rosenberg and Pam Martin

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he Memphis Zoo threw its largest fund-raiser of the year, Zoo Rendezvous, on a cool, crisp evening. Held at the Memphis Zoo, this spectacular event featured 55 local restaurants and caterers, 16 specialty bars, eight full bars and five stages with premium music. It was a night of fun, good food and good libations at everyone’s favorite wild setting. Premium Partners for this event included Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates, Purvisha Patel, M.D., AutoZone, FedEx, Mercedes-Benz of Memphis, SunTrust Bank, BorsKoefoed “BK” Family and Joseph C. Dewane, M.D. “Viva la Zoo” was this year’s theme and, upon entry, guests were immediately transported to the Las Vegas strip with performer Almost Elton John, who sang covers of Sir Elton John hits on a grand piano, as party animals waited for the Zoo doors to open. Phillip Ashley Chocolates by Chef Rix was also set up outside, offering chocolate lovers three different types of designer chocolate mousses: bourbon, coffee and salted caramel. Athens Distributing Company, Miller-Coors and Eagle Distributing had drinks poured and ready for thirsty guests as they waited in line. Volunteers from Playhouse on the Square dressed as show girls and rat pack-esque high rollers, greeting the large crowd as they entered. Large feathers, cards, dice and neon lights bedecked food tables and bars, and party band Tyrone Smith Revue got everyone grooving along as they began their food and drink journey through the Zoo. In Cat Country, Lyfe Kitchen, Patrick’s, Heritage Tavern & Kitchen and South of Beale were serving up delicious offerings. Babalu Tacos and Tapas delighted hungry guests with Mexican street corn and chocolate truffles. Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous lured folks from all points of the Zoo with the aroma of their world famous smoked ribs. The Barn Prime Steakhouse at Bally’s Casino Tunica and The Saloon at Bally’s Casino Tunica got the genuine casino atmosphere going next to the Cat House Café with hearty fare and quality libations. The Primate Pavilion was host to a number of eateries such as Blind Bear, The Capital Grille, P.F. Chang’s and Elwood Shack. Seasons 52 offered an interesting take on a martini, a wine pineapple martini and was paired with their mouth-watering desserts such as the fresh mini key lime pie. Folk’s Folly Prime Steak House was a popular choice for guests as they indulged in the eatery’s tenderloin bites with a Maker’s Mark peppercorn sauce and grilled tenderloin on yeast rolls with horseradish. Some of Memphis’ favorite bands, such as The Kathryn Stallins Band, The Kick’s and 2 Hipnotic had guests dancing all night long. All proceeds of this wild event benefited the Memphis Zoological Society. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Charlene Linxwiler and Curry Todd

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry

Larry and Joy Rice

Laura and Herb OMell

Jason and Kim Phalin

Drs. Dharmesh and Purvisha Patel

Milam and Becca Compton with Erin and Mike Nunn

Dr. Gary and Jenny Earhart

EVENT Zoo Rendezvous

Jarred and Marcy Wenzler with Thomas Bryan

OCTOBER 2015

Sharon Douglas and Shelby Douglas

Megan and Graham Warr

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Stock Exchange

70%

Consignors receive of the sales price, the other helps to support Les Passees Kids on the Block puppet troupe and the Harwood Center

d age Roa 6600 St 34 1 8 t, TN 3 Bartlecotrner of the intersection

Upscale Consignment Shop 30%

Bracke and Alicia Wertz with Peggy and Bill Wertz

t ads) (northwes Whitten Ro and Kirbyof Stage

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Through Thursday, October 29 Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm

Shopping

September through Thursday, October 29 Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm Thursday 10 am to 7 pm Sunday 1 pm to 4 pm Closed Monday

Final Days for Stock Exchange Saturday, October 31, 50% off Sunday, November 1, 75% off

Scott and Terri Struminger

Jamie Patterson and Jeanne Distretti

For more information, email stockexchangememphis@gmail.com, visit our Facebook page Les Passees Stock Exchange, or go to our website www.LPmemphis.org

EVENT Zoo Rendezvous OCTOBER 2015

Mary and Sam Cornpropst

Drs. Mary Williams and Kushna Damallie

Donna and Keith Renard

Alok and Ruma Kumar

Tracee and Anthony Jones

David Short and Jennifer Jones

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John and Lori Chase

Melissa Thompson, Sally Whitehorn and Emma Whitehorn

China and Ryan Jenkins

Justin and Charita Nickelberry

David and Ashley Bradford with Tiffany and John Heard

EVENT Zoo Rendezvous

Jerry and Karla Boruff and Carol and Wayne Scoggins with Dianne and Benny Lendennie

David Hill and K.B. Walker

Christopher Key and Jennifer Ransom

Brittney Orr, Megan Hurley, Dr. Jessica Wilson, Katie Valle and Emily Davis

OCTOBER 2015

Randy and Vicki Fisher

Kimberly Cornett and Kellie Sowards-Doyle

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Patrick Dafferner, Dr. Craig Gordon, Brad Bledsoe and T.J. Patel

Kelly and Wes Caudle

Clay and Holley Ride

Debbi and Michael Wood

LaShon and Frank McNeil

Mary Filice with LaShawn and Marc Hampton

EVENT Zoo Rendezvous

Nikki and Bryan McVay with Matt and Casey Yoakum

OCTOBER 2015

Dee Yoakum, Boot Boutwell, Jennรก Williams and Kelly Phillips

Debbie Nutt and Tee Jones

Jenny and P.J. Koltnow

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Derek and Uzma Porsche

Nicole and Gary Carlington with Brie Hoskins

Kyera and Steven Leak Jr.

Michael and Mandy Castellaw

Linda and Jeff Siegler with Debbie and Dave Seigler

EVENT Zoo Rendezvous

Elizabeth and Craig Blondis

Steven and Krista Geyer

Russell and Jennifer Church

Alan Waxman with Bill and Cissy Loverstreet and Jim Campbell

OCTOBER 2015

Russ Gordon, Diana Walton, Melinda Kay Ray and Chris Thomas

Jessica Hubbard and Lauren Bouchard

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Hunter Davidson and Lauren Scearce

Jeff and Judy Kaufman

David and Melanie Manning with Amy and Brent Cook

Eric and Stephanie Dahler

Angie and James Trumbo

Lindsey Baker, Ryan Baker, Nicole Baker and Dr. Laurie Baker

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Moon River Music Festival Story and photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Native Memphian Drew Holcomb brought together his fans from all over the country as he hosted his second annual Moon River Music Festival at The Levitt Shell. Playing to a sold-out crowd, the festival kicked off with Holcomb’s wife, Ellie, joining him for an acoustic set. Holcomb then assumed the role of emcee as seven other bands took the stage throughout the day. Local food trucks and concessionaires, along with Wiseacre Brewing, kept refreshments flowing. For Holcomb, the festival was a sort of down-home reunion. His parents were in the crowd cheering him on, as were many of the family friends who inspired the name of his band, Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors. “This festival really felt like a family reunion as we brought together other bands that we have met on the road to play here in my hometown. It was also a chance to introduce non-Memphis fans to Memphis” Holcomb said. “We wanted this festival to be a low-key, family affair and it was. In the crowd, you could see families Drew Holcolmb with young children, high school and college kids, and family friends of my parents. It was wonderful! We were overwhelmed by the support we were shown and we want to continue to make this an annual event.” Randee Feuerborn, Cameron Kietz, Leeann McNinch, Cathy Feuerborn and Ben Case

Pat and Catherine Nelson

Riley, Harper, Melissa and Chris Jaggers

Jamie and Julie Hill with Amy and Pat Person

Cocktails for a Cause

Story and photos by Emily Adams Keplinger The Sight Night program, “Envision the Possibilities,” kicked off its 11th annual gala at the University of Memphis Holiday Inn with a warm welcome from WKNO’s Jim Eikner, master of ceremonies. The event was a fund-raiser for the World Cataract Foundation, a nonprofit organization originally founded by Memphian Dr. Jerre Freeman. The organization’s focus is to eliminate cataract blindness in many parts of the world through surgery, training and equipment. For over 40 years, Dr. Freeman has worked as founder and past chairman of the World Cataract Foundation. Dr. Raleigh Crawford, Sarah Dow McVean and John McVean Cathy Schanzer was honored with the Freeman Vision Award, given to someone who has made significant contributions in the advancement of sight. Schanzer established the Southern Eye Clinic of Serabu in Sierra Leone in 2006. Dr. John Freeman, also of Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates and chairman of the board of the Mid-South Eye Bank, introduced the evening’s special guest, well-known actor, singer and motivational speaker, Tom Sullivan. Sandra Hall Morris served as the event chairperson. Along with Helen Keller, Sullivan is the only other recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Foundation for the Blind.

Story and photos by Emily Adams Keplinger A crowd gathered poolside for cocktails at the Central Gardens home of Kathy and Kelly Fish for a party with a purpose – raising money for a local nonprofit organization. Once a month during the summers, Kathy and Kelly host a fund-raising event for a charity of choice. They invite friends to stop by and have a cocktail or two, and make a donation to the featured organization. They also ask the organization to invite their supporters and to secure Kelly and Kathy Fish a donor who will match funds raised at Cocktails for a Cause. At the August gathering, “Cocktails for a Cause” raised $5,100 for Company d of Memphis, a nationally recognized dance company of young adults with Down Syndrome. The dancers perform under the artistic direction of choreographer Darlene Winters. With an outdoor kitchen and ample seating around the pool, guests mingled while dining on charcuterie and koolickles from Porcellino’s Craft Butcher, as well as fresh fruit platters, cheese straws and chips and dip. Dr. John Smarrelli, president of Christian Brothers University, and Yvette Whiteside, host of “Local Memphis Live” on Local 24, served as the evening’s celebrity bartenders. “Memphis has so many great nonprofits that are doing wonderful work. This has been a fun way to introduce them to a wider circle of people and help them cultivate new supporters,” Kathy commented.

Dr. Monika Nenon, Dr. Tom Nenon and Dr. Chris Fleming

Margaret and Richard Myers with Lori Hudson

Jeannie Hinson and Virginia Stallworth

John and Courtney Murrah

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Sight Night

OCTOBER 2015

Jenny Bailey and Savannah Avery

EVENT

Art on Tap Artful Libations

Art on Tap

OCTOBER 2015

Artee Naji and Carrie Suchman

Christopher and Allison Cook

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s a weather front ushered in cooler temperatures, the rustle of the leaves in the wooded areas surrounding The Dixon Gallery & Gardens brought the feel of fall to the outdoor gathering for this year’s Art on Tap. Booths of food and beverage purveyors formed an outer perimeter as a crowd mingled in the museum’s parking lot where tables were set up for dining and conversation. Local band Mason Jar Fireflies provided musical entertainment as guests carried miniature pilsner glasses around for their tastings. The event was offered as part of the yearly calendar for the museum’s Young at Art group, but was also open to the public. “Young At Art (YAA) provides opportunities for members to combine culture with entertainment, with several gatherings each year designed to offer a vibrant social experience for young individuals living in the Memphis community,” Sarah Lorenz, Dixon development associate, explained. “YAA membership includes a Young At Art and Dixon membership, with free admission to the museum and gardens and members-only events.” Touted as “The first, the original, and the best beer tasting,” guests attending Art on Tap enjoyed unlimited beer samplings from around the world. Food offerings from 4Dumplings, Boscos Squared, Celtic Crossing, CFY Catering, Frost Bake Shop, Gus’s Fried Chicken, One & Only BBQ and Rock’n Dough Pizza gave partygoers plenty of dinner choices. The selection of beverages showcased the best Memphis has to offer in the way of craft beers from Bernoulli Brew Werks, Bluff City Brewers & Connoisseurs, Boscos Brewing Co., Ghost River Brewery, High Cotton Brewing Co., Memphis Brewers Association, Memphis Made Brewing Co. and Midsouth Malts. Buster’s Liquors & Wines and Eagle Distributing rounded out the field with other domestic and international beers. Buster’s also provided a wine tasting that featured a Prosecco, a rosé, a fumé blanc and a pinot noir. Guests also enjoyed the return of an Art on Tap favorite, “Hops-icles,” refreshing boozy popsicles by CFY Catering. In addition to the food and suds, Dixon held a drawing to support the art and horticulture shared with and made available to the Memphis community. Meg Walker received a Yeti Cooler, Trip Fountain garnered the Sprock n’ Roll Experience, and Ashley Harmon was the recipient of a private tour and tasting for four at Memphis Made Brewing Co. “For the third year in a row, Art on Tap was a sell-out event,” Chantal Drake, Dixon director of communications, said “Due to our ongoing interior renovation, we moved the event to a different location on our property which allowed for a fresh feel and ease of flow. It also gave guests more opportunity to experience our grounds. Our next fund-raising event, Art on Fire, will take place Oct. 24th.” See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry

Mary Kate and Bill Brendon

Kyle Kelley and Adam McClain

Derek Morgan and Casey Katz

Sarah Cate and Pam Gaw

Chris Holley and Lauren Cansler

Bailey Hill, Laura Bailey, Lara Cate Jordan-Young and Mica Jordan

Sheca Azor and Kirby Meadow

EVENT Art on Tap

Jason and Anna Eckhardt

Kirby and Japsie Thornton

Adam Perrin and Caroline Fleming

Dr. Denise and Autry Parker

OCTOBER 2015

Kesha and Jason Warren

Matt Butterfield and Anna Whyte

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Richard Morris and Stephanie Vecchione

Rhonda Williams, India Harris and Keisha Adams

Kate and Spencer Nesvick

Nancy Hooper and Alan Crawford

Mandy and Heath Jackson with Bee and Barrett McCollum

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AFTER HOURS

Doris McLendon Fine Jewelry William Henry Trunk Show

A photo collage of the latest business happenings

AFTER HOURS

Social Home Grand Opening

Ken Rash Celebrity Big Green Egg Cookoff

Janie Sims, Stacy Sims and Laura OMell

A.B. Haines, Karen Davis and Doris McLendon

OCTOBER 2015

Camille Rash Blake and Addison Blake

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Cindy Willett, Morgan Kimberlin, Jordan Massie and Michelle McMinn

Carmen Bond and Catherine OMell Nick Scott, Matt Owens, Chris Michaels, Ron Olson and Russell Casey

Karen Carlisle and Kristen Budzak

Michael Williams, Pam Leach, Mike Edmundson and Kevin Milan

Kittie Kyle Carol Peretz Trunk Show

Meg McCord, Cindy Gambrell and Carol Peretz

RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin

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OCTOBER 2015

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T H I H U L U G L A S H B A S A R D G A Z P A C E O P E A N E E O U I N E L L T R I E E E R

Like some furniture School group Father’s sister Unit of energy, as for an air conditioner 48 Has 49 Medicated 51 Cargo ship 53 Puffed 54 Swirl 56 Flair 57 Rip 59 To be in debt 61 Before, poetically 62 Fib 42 45 46 47

I R N E N T H B I A N C K H P P A T I A N T E D

DOWN 1 Offshore 2 Wisp of smoke 3 Smelt (2 wds.) 4 Throat infection 5 3rd day of the wk 6 Lodge 7 Reconsider 8 Because of this 9 Mr. Downs of 60 Minutes 10 Sick 11 Catapult 15 Southeast by east 17 Time periods 19 “Cool, man” 22 Crunch targets 25 German composer 26 Wood shaping tool (var.) 27 Like a frisbee 28 Org. of women who work for socioeconomic change 29 Large scale 30 Open mouthed 31 Contest 33 365 days 35 Do away with 36 Nude 37 Accessible 39 Spot 40 Cornmeal cake

S T T U E R E R E A P S M Y A E E C S A R P R O Y B E O L D W E D E W Y

21 Talk about, with “over” 23 Grizzlies’ org. 24 Sleep 25 Baby eating apparel 26 Ripe 27 Tints 29 Sloping roof type 32 ____ Jima 33 Gab 34 Summerhouse 38 Shriek 40 Warm up race 41 Type of salad 42 Francis, for one 43 Anger 44 Barbecue grill fuel 46 Prayer ending 47 Torso 50 Truss 51 French “yes” 52 Deuce 53 Legume 55 Inside 58 Still on a shelf 60 Poe’s The ______ Heart 63 Stitched 64 A Great Lake, canal or PA city 65 Beige 66 Like grass in the mornings 67 Doe or stag 68 Finis

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13 Melody 14 Shells 16 Carrying away from center 18 Even less pretty 20 Aflame

B O T W U N S

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1 Rainy mo. 4 Uproar 8 Not that 12 Take to court

i t ’ s cl a ssy it’s smooth For underwriting information, call 901-678-2560 Visit us online at wumr.memphis.edu

RSVPhillipi

By Dennis Phillippi

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US A

the introduction of the DVD, eventually rendering all of those episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation obsolete. There are still old VHS tapes in the top of the closet in our laundry room. Many of them are unlabeled, and the rest appear to be various stand-up comedy shows I did, which, thankfully, are no longer viewable. Not that the comedy wouldn’t hold up. I’m sure most of

it, the jokes that don’t reference Beanie Babies, Newt Gingrich, or “Full House” at least, would still be funny enough. I just don’t want to see the 1995 me. Aside from the Saget mullet I sported, I also owned and wore onstage plaid pants, jackets with shoulder pads, both bright green and bright blue suits, and very colorful ties. The Grunge movement hit in 1995, but, at 31, I was already too old to start slouching around in flannel shirts and jeans that were bought pre-torn. The movie “Toy Story” debuted in 1995, the very first full-length computer animated feature film ever released. Before that, and I know hardly anyone remembers this, animated films were flat and drawn by

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“Oh, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame opened in, of all places, Cleveland, OH, making it one of the most hated tourist destinations for many Memphians. We still went, but we grumbled the whole time. We still do.”

actual human beings. “Toy Story” is terrific, still holds up great, and all of the CGI movies that have followed have been amazing achievements, but it had to be a drag for all those people who, you know, could draw. The 55-mile per hour speed limit was abolished by President Bill Clinton, making him the hero to everyone who had been speeding since the Carter Administration. This was a real thing, for those of you who don’t remember. The speed limit on all U.S. Interstates was set at 55 miles per hour, a pace that drove everyone, including Sammy Hagar, insane. The idea was to conserve oil, but the result was making criminals of virtually every single one of us. At the movies we had pre-lunatic Mel Gibson in “Braveheart,” and hubris-addled Kevin Costner throwing “Waterworld” at us. Alicia Silverstone starred in “Clueless” long before we realized that Alicia Silverstone actually was clueless. In music, we had Seal singing “Kiss From a Rose” and Canadian Rocker Bryan Adams croaking out “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?” Sadly, we also had those monsters Los del Rio taking the world by storm with “Macarena,” a dance tune so infectious new antibiotics had to be invented. Oh, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame opened in, of all places, Cleveland, OH, making it one of the most hated tourist destinations for many Memphians. We still went, but we grumbled the whole time. We still do. And this is a tribute to stubborn persistence: Madonna had already been a thing for a decade. 20 years ago. All in all, it genuinely was a more innocent time. It was six years before September 11th, people had to actually sit at home and watch television, waiting until the next week to see the next episode of something instead of watching an entire season over the weekend, smart phones were a long way off, so people in bars weren’t constantly looking at a blue light in their lap. I’m no Luddite, the forward movement of science and society is generally a good thing in my book, but in 1995 we were more communal in a different way, a more human way, and, in retrospect, that was a nice thing. Maybe we were kind of clueless too, but we were very colorful. And we didn’t know about Cosby yet.

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ll of us here at RSVP are very excited about the magazine turning 20 years old, even though we know at this age it thinks it knows everything and is going to be full of empty-headed ideas about politics it won’t shut up about. The upside is next year the magazine can drink legally. 1995 was a huge year, and not just because of the debut of this fine publication. 1995 was the year the Internet officially became a thing. Until that year, the Internet was privatized and was no longer driven by government money. America Online swept in so that every citizen, at least the ones willing to load a free disk onto their computer, pay a monthly fee, and wait for the interminable fax line racket to subside, could make contact with strangers at an excruciatingly slow pace. All kidding aside, it’s hard to imagine that in 1994 the vast majority of us did not have access to the Internet. People in bars had to just keep arguing about someone’s batting average or whether or not this guy or that guy directed that movie. It was the dark ages. In March of 1995, Yahoo made the scene with the very first search engine made available to the public. It also made a handful of nerds gozillionaires. Eventually, Wikipedia rolled around, making this column possible. You think I can actually remember things that happened 20 years ago? I don’t remember what I had for lunch. 1995 began with the big kick-off of the O.J. Simpson murder trial, which dragged on from mid-January to early October. Even now, after all these years, I’m still not sure what I think about that whole circus, except that it was indirectly responsible for the explosion of judge shows on the TV, and that alone is a good enough reason for Juice to be in the clink. I’m not going to dwell on this one, but also in March of 1995, Mississippi ratified the thirteenth amendment, officially becoming the last state to approve the abolition of slavery. Better late than never, fellas. Another milestone from 1995 was

RSV PAST

1995

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Breaking Onto the Scene

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ictured above is RSVP publisher Roy Haithcock and original editor David Tankersley on November 17th, 1995. This photograph was featured on the cover of the Appeal section of the Commercial Appeal following the release of the first edition of RSVP. Photo Courtesy of the Commercial Appeal If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Rachel Warren at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.

Beautiful and lasting memories are as simple as

www.rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our website. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a photo that one of our photographers took at a major social event and is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available through our web address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and remember the password: rsvp.

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