April 2015

SPRING FASHION

AT THE HUNT PHELAN

LIGHT & AIRY HOME DESIGN

CONTENTS APRIL 2015

22

30

22 SPRING

FASHION AT HUNT PHELAN

Flirty & fun looks to flaunt this spring

30 HOME FRESH AND DE-LIGHT-FUL An updated Country French-style home in Collierville, Tennessee features a warm, inviting atmosphere SPRING FASHION

AT THE HUNT PHELAN

LIGHT & AIRY HOME DESIGN

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. 6 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

CONTENTS APRIL 2015

FOR YOU 16 beauty Flowery & Feminine Fragrances

16

18 wellness Seasonal Allergies 19 healthy you Fiber Facts 98 on a good note YouthTown

HOME & DESIGN 28 at home with Rebecca Dinstuhl 40 design Room to Grow 46 style marketplace Kids' Rooms 48 technology Have it Your Way 50 home trends Remodels for Aging Homeowners

40 T R AV E L & C U LT U R E 52 visit this Tennessee Safari Park 56 getaway Franklin, Tennessee 60 travel Phoenix, Arizona 70 arts Caron Gallery 72 social pages 78 experience this Double Decker Arts Festival

84

FOOD & DRINK 84 entertaining Spring Brunch 90 in the kitchen Fruity Springtime Delights

92 dining out Mindfield Grill 94 happy hour Blood Orange Martini

I N E V E RY I S S U E 12 | PUBLISHER’S NOTE 14 | CONTRIBUTORS 89 | SOURCES 8 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

APRIL 2015 • VOL. 14 NO. 1 PUBLISHER/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

EDITOR LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT | lcolvett@athomemms.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR LAURIE A. SUMMERS | lsummers@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MEGAN EIDT | meidt@gmail.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

WEBMASTER LAURIE A. SUMMERS | lsummers@athomemms.com

CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS MICHAEL ALLEN, SUZIE HANSEN, JOHN TERRY, JULIE WAGE ROSS

INTERNS MACKENZIE ALEXANDER, SUZIE HANSEN, BAILEY HELDMAR, MORGAN PRUITT

HOW TO REACH US 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200 | Cordova, TN 38018 TOLL FREE 877.684.4155 | FAX 866.354.4886 WEBSITE: athomemms.com

At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 877.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

10 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

publisher’s note

A ROAD LESS TRAVELED

I

recently traveled from Memphis to Shreveport, Louisiana, for a Travel South work event. I had intended on taking Interstate 55 to Jackson and then 20 over to Shreveport—after all that is the common and most traveled way to get there. When I woke up that morning, I decided I would try a new route. I love the drive south on Highway 61 going through the Delta and thought I would give this way a shot. I could cut over in Greenville, which seemed pretty simple at the time. With Siri, MapQuest and my GPS, what could go wrong? I should know by now to never ask that question. My friend and faithful assistant, Harriet, and I started on our journey of what was described to be a little under six hours. The drive through the Delta was smooth and easy, despite the less-than-perfect weather conditions. We crossed the bridge in Greenville over the mighty Mississippi and that is when we seemed to enter the twilight zone.

It’s not that I enjoy stressing Harriet out when I put off getting gas to the very last minute, but I seriously just can’t stand to stop and get gas. It is a boring waste of time to me. I decided to be proactive this time and fill up since I had never been on the roads we were about to take. We found a gas station that seemed pretty safe and started that boring ten minutes of filling up. About five minutes into it, several late-1970s model Monte Carlos with over-sized tires decided to turn in and began to circle us like sharks. Did I mention the cars had chains wrapped around them and some were even decorated with graffiti? Oh, and that Harriet sat in the locked car while I was outside pumping the gas. Well, I must have intimidated them in between shaking in my shoes and trying not to cry. One by one they decided to pull back onto the highway, but not before “peeling out” in front of us in a last ditch-effort to impress.

It goes downhill from there. This is the point where our navigation devices decided to confuse us. One device pointed us north (we clearly needed to be going southwest) and another had us going east instead of west. We decided to combine their suggestions, which led us on a two-hour journey through Arkansas and Louisiana on roads I hope to never see again. The fog was so think it appeared that the world ended on each side of the road. I had to straddle the center line of the road to dodge the pot hole/craters on each side. I guess it was a blessing that we didn’t see a sign of another human life for a couple of hours because the road was not wide enough for two cars.

After more than an hour of no people, buildings, or animals, we began to acknowledge that the only possible conclusion was the world had ended and we didn’t make the cut. Yes, we had been “left behind.” This is when we no longer had GPS or phone service. So that pretty much was the convincing factor for us. The random grave sites here and there fit into the equation just perfectly. With all hope gone, there was simply no reason to not eat the junk food we had brought. It no longer mattered to watch our weight. The Michelob Ultras were no longer safe either. Just then we happened to enter a little country town out of the blue. I actually saw a police car. Then both our jaws dropped as we saw the quaintest white wooden church in the middle of a field. The church was surrounded by hundreds of red and yellow tulips and was simply breathtaking. Minutes later we saw the sign that directed us to the interstate and we reached our destination a few hours past the scheduled time.

We could have taken the road more traveled but would have certainly missed out on a journey we will remember forever and a view that took our breath away. Sometimes you have to go through a little bit of hell, so to speak, to see a slice of heaven. In the end, it was worth the ride. I hope you have a safe and happy April and enjoy some journeys of your own. Just remember to fill up, take along snacks, keep your eyes open for beautiful sights and bring along a great friend to share the laughs.

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contributors ANGELA MAZANTI • Entertaining is the proprietor of Angela Mazanti Design. She specializes in interior, floral and event design, and her work has been locally and nationally recognized as outstanding in the field.

Jordana White • Home is a lifestyle writer and editor. In addition to contributing to At Home Memphis & Mid South magazine, she writes for nationally distributed Life & Style magazine and several online outlets. Once a resident of Nashville, she now lives in New York with her husband Ian and two young sons, Brayden and Cooper.

April McKinney • in the kitchen is an award-winning cook, food writer and recipe demonstrator. She has been featured on the Today show and Better TV, after her recipes won national cooking contests. You can also see her creating new healthy and simple dishes on her YouTube channel, “April McKinney Cooking,” where she demonstrates her recipes on camera.

14 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

beauty

Lovestruck Eau de Parfum

Vera Wang, $68, www.bloomingdales.com

Glorious Mandarin

Flora by Gucci, $53, www.FragranceNet.com

Flowery & FEMININE

'Valentina' Eau de Parfum Valentino, $84, Nordstrom.com

LIVEN UP YOUR SPRING WITH A SPRITZ OF FRESH FRAGRANCE

Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet

Roses de Chloé

Dior, $111, www.FragranceNet.com

Chloé, $95, www.bloomingdales.com

Daisy Delight

Marc Jacobs, $58, www.FragranceNet.com

16 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Live Color Fully

Kate Spade New York, $75, Nordstrom.com

Furiosa Fendi Eau de Parfum Fendi, $88, www.bloomingdales.com

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 17

wellness

SEASONAL ALLERGIES INTERVIEW BY LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT

Dr. Betty Mirro, with East Memphis Allergy, offers advice and information for At Home Memphis & Mid South readers about seasonal allergies, something that will affect many Mid South residents this spring.

At Home Memphis & Mid South: South Do allergies affect certain age groups more than others?

Dr. Mirro: Allergies affect all ages. However, nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis) most commonly begin between the ages of three years and early adulthood. Symptoms may persist throughout adulthood but do not often have their initial onset after middle age. The elderly are rarely affected.

blood. Skin testing usually involves placing a small amount of liquid allergens on the skin with plastic devices that “prick” or slightly puncture the skin. Most allergists prefer skin testing as the results are readily available and there is usually less expense for the patient. When we are unable to do skin testing, blood testing may be done. Both tests are reliable and I use a combination of skin testing and blood testing in my office.

AHMMS: What are some signs/symptoms that indicate one may have seasonal allergies?

AHMMS: Are there any new treatments available for seasonal allergies?

Dr. Mirro: Seasonal allergies often cause sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and itchy, swollen eyes. There may be secondary headaches and fatigue, as well. In patients with asthma, flare ups may be more common during the pollen season. In Memphis the pollen season may start as early as mid February and last into late June. Summer brings less pollen but mid August through October is ragweed season here.

Dr. Mirro: The most recent new treatment is the introduction of oral immunotherapy. Oral treatment is only available for a very few allergens and is not appropriate for everyone who needs allergy immunotherapy. This therapy should be discussed with an allergist.

There are three major ways to treat allergies. The first is avoidance. For pollen this means closing the windows and trying to keep pollen out of the house and car. Showering after outside activities can be helpful, too. Medications can also be effective in treating allergy symptoms. The most widely used medications for allergies are antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays. These should be used according to your provider’s guidelines. Allergy injections (immunotherapy) are the third line of defense against allergies. When patients are still having problems, we often recommend allergen immunotherapy.

Dr. Mirro: Depending on what a patient is allergic to, some times of year may bring symptom relief. Those with pollen allergies will be less bothered by allergies from November until January here in Memphis.

AHMMS: When should one see an allergist?

Dr. Mirro: Patients should see an allergist if their symptoms are not easily controlled with readily available medications and avoidance measures. If allergies are interfering with normal activities such as work, school or sports, then consultation with an allergist may lead to better understanding and control of the allergies.

AHMMS: What is involved in allergy testing?

Dr. Mirro: Allergy testing may be done by testing skin or 18 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

AHMMS: Are there certain times of the year when allergies flare up or subside?

AHMMS: When would one need allergy injections, and typically how long is that course of treatment?

Dr. Mirro: Allergy immunotherapy is a “buildup” process.

It usually takes between nine and 12 months to reach a maintenance dose. At this point the interval between injections is often increased to two to four weeks. If the patient is doing well, this dose is typically continued for three to five years. This depends on the patient’s response and the severity of their condition.

AHMMS: Can seasonal allergies affect people at any point in their lives?

Dr. Mirro: Allergies affect patients from early childhood through 60-70 years of age. However, many people will lose their sensitivities and only have symptoms for part of this time. Allergies rarely affect the elderly.

healthy you

5 THINGS

YOU SHOULD KNOW

ABOUT FIBER TEXT BY KRISTI EDWARDS, MS, RDN, CLC

F

iber, a type of carbohydrate, is found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds. Both soluble and insoluble fiber are essential components of a healthy diet, and most whole foods will contain a combination of the two. Here are five things you should know about fiber:

1. Fiber is good for more than just digestion.

While fiber is essential for digestive health, it prevents a lot more than constipation! Consuming adequate fiber will actually lower your risk of developing coronary artery disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, obesity and certain gastrointestinal diseases. Studies have shown that people who consume fiber have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

2. Fiber can help you to control your weight.

In addition to the aforementioned benefits, fiber can also help you feel fuller longer. When you consume plenty of fiber and water during a meal, you end up feeling sated on fewer calories.

In addition, high-fiber foods typically take more time to chew; you likely won’t consume food as quickly, giving your brain time to realize you are full. Studies show that consuming whole fruits versus fruit juice during a meal results in overall consumption of fewer calories.

3. Americans only consume about half the recommended amount of fiber in a day.

Guidelines recommend consuming 25-38 grams of fiber daily, but most Americans only eat about half of this amount.

Inadequate daily fiber intake can result in constipation and high blood pressure (short-term), in addition to the chronic

conditions (long-term) previously mentioned. A lack of fiber in the diet has also been linked to certain types of cancer.

4. Foods rich in fiber are usually rich in other important nutrients as well.

KRISTI EDWARDS, CLC

Foods that contain fiber typically also contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It’s a win-win! Why not improve your digestion and manage your weight while providing your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally at the same time?

5. It is better to obtain fiber from natural sources than from supplements.

If you need to increase the amount of fiber you consume in a day, fiber supplements are an option. However, it is better to obtain fiber from whole food sources that also provide many other health benefits. Below is a table which may help you increase the fiber in your diet.

Keep in mind that it is best to increase fiber intake by about five grams daily. More than this may cause bloating or gas.

INCREASE THESE…

DECREASE THESE…

- Whole grains, wheat bran, brown rice, oats

- White, refined grains, white rice - Fruit juice - Vegetable juice - Fried and high-fat meats

- Whole fruits - Whole vegetables - Beans, peas, nuts, seeds

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 19

20 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • January 2015

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fashion

Spring Fashions FLIRTY & FUN

LOCATION: THE HUNT PHELAN | MODEL: KATIE KALSI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ALLEN MAKEUP BY MATT GOSSETT | HAIR BY AMY WOOD OF STUDIO LARUE 22 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

LEFT: Him: Hudson Plaid Coral and Blue by Southern Marsh, British Khaki Twill Charisma Pants by 34 Heritage, Navy Thaxton Velour Suede Shoes by Martin Dingman (Dixie Pickers in Collierville, TN).

Her: Print Crop Top by Blaque Label (The Shoppe Downtown in Clarksdale, MS), Tritone Wedges

by Sesto Meucci (Marmi Shoes in Germantown, TN) and Lariat Necklace and Earrings by Brooke Ward Designs (BrookeWardDesigns. com) Custom Handbag by Katie Kalsi (www.katiekalsi.com)

fashion

Right: Lilac Sleeveless Top and White/Purple Floral Pants by Cartise (Betty Hays in Germantown, TN), Lariat Necklace and bracelet by Brooke Ward Designs (BrookeWardDesigns.com), and Brody Champagne Metallic Shoes

by Eric Javits (Marmi Shoes in Germantown, TN)

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fashion

TOP: Black Dress by Cartise, Swarovski Crystal/Semi Precious 24 K Gold Plated Silver Finish Sunglasses by J. Jansen, Gold and Silver Necklace and Black Flip Flops by J. Jansen (Betty Hays in Germantown, TN) BOTTOM: Navy Lola Shorts by Jade Melody Tam, Pink Cardigan by Nally & Millie, White Tank by Kay Celine, (Andie Grace in Jackson, TN) Brody Champagne Metallic Sandals by Eric Javits (Marmi Shoes in Germantown, TN) Lariat Necklace and Earrings by Brooke Ward Designs (BrookeWardDesigns.com) Custom Handbag

by Katie Kalsi (www.katiekalsi.com)

OPPOSITE: Him: Catahoula Tattersall Bimini Dress Shirt and Seawash Grayton Twill Pant by Southern Marsh, Leather Multi Shop Belt by Over Under, and Blaine Camel Water Resistant Suede Shoes by Trask (Dixie Pickers in Collierville, TN).

Her: Floral Dress with Belt by Black Swan (The Shoppe Downtown in Clarksdale, MS), Koleta Magenta Nabuk Sandals by Vaneli (Marmi Shoes in Germantown, TN), Lariat Necklace, Earrings and Bracelet by Brooke Ward Designs (BrookeWardDesigns.com) Custom Handbag by Katie Kalsi (www.katiekalsi.com) 24 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

fashion

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fashion

Pleat Top Dress by Ark & Co., Jean Jacket by Cello, Multicolored Necklace by Sil Moon CK (LipChic Boutique in Corinth, MS) Custom Handbag by Katie Kalsi (www.katiekalsi.com) 26 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Columbus, Mississippi

CELEBRATES VINTAGE YEAR TEXT BY VISIT COLUMBUS

A

75th anniversary calls for a celebration.

Champagne? In this case what might be in order is a mint julep or an ice cold sweet tea—or even a few hot licks of a blues guitar—because 2015 marks the 75th annual Columbus, Mississippi Spring Pilgrimage, a 16-day celebration of Southern homes, history, arts and culture.

This year, in addition to one of the South’s most significant collections of historic homes, Pilgrimage will once again serve up a culture-rich experience highlighted by such popular events as the Catfish in the Alley® Festival, featuring mouth-watering fried catfish and show-stopping performances by beloved blues artists. On the blues stage, or on the page with readings by prominent local authors, the rhythm is just right at Pilgrimage, with appealing activities for all, from horse-drawn carriage rides to the Half-Marathon and 5K to Tales from the Crypt, dramatizing real-life characters from the past at the historic Friendship Cemetery.

After Spring Pilgrimage segues to summer, Columbus pours on more crowd-pleasing fun with great outdoor activities on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, where boating and fishing are major attractions. Come cast a line, and if you don’t catch your dinner, don’t worry: there are plenty of luscious fresh treats at Columbus’ Farmers Market and delectable discoveries to savor on the dining scene, from haute cuisine to classic Southern dishes.

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tennessee Williams was born here, and today his childhood home serves as the city’s welcome center. Blanche Dubois, one of Williams’ most famous characters, cried, “I want magic!” Columbus has magic everywhere, in moments large and small. A sunset stroll on the Riverwalk, for example, as the golden light streams through the spans of the beautifully restored Tombigbee Bridge. Another vintage moment. In the seasons ahead, come celebrate life and history in Columbus. No sommelier needed.

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at home with

Rebecca Dinstuhl

President, Dinstuhl’s Fine Candy Company, Inc. INTERVIEW BY LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN TERRY, FOREST HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

At Home Memphis & Mid South Magazine chats with Rebecca Dinstuhl about her family’s Memphis candy company that has been serving their nationally awarded chocolate pecan fudge and popular chocolate-covered strawberries since 1902.

At Home Memphis & Mid South: Where did you grow up and go to school?

Rebecca Dinstuhl: I grew up and attended high school in Alexandria, Alabama, then began my college education at Jacksonville State University. Upon moving to Memphis, I continued my education at Memphis State University.

AHMMS: What’s your favorite thing about your job?

RD: I love my job! Our family working environment creates an atmosphere for happy employees who enjoy coming to work each day and love what they do. Working with our team of dedicated employees as they use their unique skills and talents to produce the finest quality candies available anywhere

28 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

is so rewarding. As they prepared, dipped, packaged and sold over 6,000 pounds of chocolate-covered strawberries in three days, I was so proud of their teamwork and spirit to assure that everyone had an opportunity to give strawberries to their sweetheart this Valentine’s Day. AHMMS: What is your favorite holiday or time of year to be at Dinstuhl’s?

RD: Dinstuhl's is an integral part of holidays and many family traditions throughout the Mid South and beyond. Some of my favorite times include greeting the grandmother who brings her grandchildren into the candy store for their weekly treat, makes sure the chocolate Santa Claus is in their stocking and the chocolate butter cream egg has their name written on it for their Easter basket. The thrill of shipping a four-pound box of chocolate-covered nuts each Valentine’s Day for 60 years to a customer in Florida so he can “surprise” his wife. Placing an engagement ring inside a heart-shaped box of chocolates for

that “special question.” Writing names on 125 white chocolate rabbits for a loyal customer who moved to Reno, NV. [It] shows that Dinstuhl’s is an important part of their lives...and mine.

getaway

AHMMS: Do you have a favorite Dinstuhl’s candy?

RD: Recently, Dinstuhl’s was honored nationally when our founding recipe, chocolate pecan fudge, was selected as the #1 fudge in America. Choosing just one of the 200 chocolates and candies we make fresh daily would be impossible.

AHMMS: What is the best-selling Dinstuhl’s candy?

RD: The number one favorite is chocolate-covered strawberries, with Cashew Crunch a close second.

Turtlettes and chocolate fudge are also among the most popular candies sold each year.

AHMMS: How long has Dinstuhl’s been in Memphis?

RD: Dinstuhl’s was founded on Main Street in downtown Memphis as a soda fountain and candy store in 1902 by Charles Martin Dinstuhl, Sr. Today, his great great grandson, Andrew Dinstuhl, still uses the timeless recipes of five generations as he supervises the daily production of handmade chocolates and candies in the kitchen on Pleasant View.

AHMMS: Hobbies?

RD: Between work and family I don’t have much time for hobbies, but I do enjoy most sports...University of Memphis basketball and football, Grizzlies basketball and Alabama football are my favorites.

AHMMS: Where is your favorite place to travel?

RD: I love to travel. Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands and Israel are my favorite international destinations.

I also like Puerto Rico and Hawaii for exotic beaches, but it’s hard to beat Destin for a family holiday!

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Fresh &

De-

Light -Ful

TEXT by Jordana White | Photography by Suzie Hansen

Designer Patty Michaelis plays favorites when decorating her own Collierville home

30 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

HOMEfeature

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HOMEfeature

32 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

HOMEfeature

A

s Patty Michaelis, a designer with First Fruit Collection, tells it, “I am obsessed with lamps,” so when she moved into her 3,250-square-foot, four-bedroom home back in 2003, lighting was a key focus in the design plan she began to develop. “Lighting is one of the most important elements in a home,” she explains. “The right lighting adds warmth to a room and can be the finishing touch that makes your space.” With that goal in mind, Michaelis began selecting unique lighting fixtures and installations for every room in her home—from the three-pronged candelabra just above the master bathtub to the glassbased lamp in her front entryway—ensuring that each and every space had its own special vibe.

In a house so filled with light, it was imperative for Michaelis to come up with a bright and fresh color palette that would not drag down the warmth she’d

worked so hard to create. Sticking to an updated Country French style, Michaelis played with soft neutrals when selecting fabrics and furnishings, adding in pops of light blue and green to give the home an “updated and refreshed look.”

Part of that updated look included furniture with distressed finishes—a design element that can be difficult to work with, at least for the uninitiated. Michaelis’ rule for working with distressed pieces is simple. “I try not to have too many distressed pieces in a single room, and I balance heavily distressed items with lightly distressed items.” In her own home, that meant placing a distressed white entryway cabinet directly beneath a piece of art with a heavy brush stroke that imitated the finish of the cabinet while also moving the visitor’s eye slightly away from the distressed vibe. Just around the corner, in her front hall, a sleek wrought-iron display table offers the exact measure of balance Michaelis prefers.

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HOMEfeature

”

a house so filled with

34 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

light ”

HOMEfeature

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HOMEfeature

”

relaxed

feeling is one of the most important elements”

36 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

HOMEfeature While establishing a superior design plan for her home was crucial, Michaelis also sought to create an inviting atmosphere. ”One that when you walk through the door you immediately feel warm and comfortable,” she describes. To that end, she kept family at the forefront of the design concept, creating a family photo wall over the cozy taupe couch and green polka-dotted ottoman that anchor the inviting sitting room.

Michaelis explains that there are many ways to build a successful family photo wall; in her own home, she stuck to a small grouping of favorite pictures, framed to reflect both her taste and the informality of the space.

But a photo wall can morph to fit any area, given the right tweaks, she points out. For a more formal room, just change the name and the design concept will follow. She suggests creating a “gallery wall” by mixing collection a of photos with pieces of art. The key to making it work is to have the wall reflect both the nature of the space and the personalities of the people pictured in the photos.

Of course, in Michaelis’ house, her personality and passion for design are evident in more than just her

photos. To complete her home den, Michaelis sourced a pair of antique doors “all the way from Egypt.” Not only do they tell the story of their owner’s devotion to fine décor, the doors’ combination of old wood mixed with iron details adds special interest to the space.

Although the den boasts the furnishings that travelled the farthest, another room has captured Michaelis’ heart as her favorite: the master bedroom. She describes it as the spot in the house that makes her happiest. “The soft palette I chose creates a peaceful atmosphere that I just love walking into.” And that’s how it should be, she explains. “Your bedroom should be a place where you feel relaxed and comfortable, and this room definitely helps me feel that way.”

At the end of the day, feeling relaxed is one of the most important elements involved in designing your dream home, Michaelis believes. “Don't feel like you have to do everything at once,” she says.“Just decide on a style, and then take it one room at a time.” Follow that advice and you may just find yourself with a home as perfectly matched to your passions as Michaelis’ is to hers.

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38 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

design

ROOM TO

GROW

TEXT BY KATIE BREYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE WAGE ROSS

40 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

design

E

veryone who’s ever had children knows, when the kids are happy, the parents are happy.

Raising children is typically an arduous mix of giving them what they want, adversely saying “no” to certain things they want, and teaching them independence. The same can be said for decorating children’s rooms, however, the process can be fun, according to the expert who crafted the girl’s and boy’s bedrooms showcased in this month’s design feature.

Decorating a child’s room can definitely be a bonding experience. Rebecca Lybrand with Rhea Crenshaw Interiors/ Blue Moon Bedding says, “Children of all ages have opinions on what goes into their bedroom. Make them part of the

experience by giving them choices you know they will like and you like, too. Make these decisions together.” A child’s bedroom is the one room in the house that is theirs; it is both their fortress and resting place. Since the room is the child’s own little world it should reflect his or her unique personality.

“Working on children’s rooms is always refreshing and fun.

Children have such a keen, unique eye and it’s always nice to create a special space they are excited to call their own,” Lybrand states.

Keeping young children involved in the process of decorating their personal space is essential to their happiness, but there’s something very important to keep in mind: a child’s taste is temporary. As they grow, so will their style

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design

and interests. This is why expert designers advise staying away from a theme—it will be outgrown soon. Instead, opt for color schemes that are easily transitioned into the various stages of childhood; think neutrals versus neons.

The décor and furnishings around the base color can be dynamic and provide the eccentricity a child would like in a room.

The boy’s bedroom pictured is a great example of creating a space into which a young man can grow. The browns of the room are sophisticated while the yellows provide balance with a youthful touch. The deer antlers are a masculine symbol, but they are not overbearing.

This particular room doubles as a guest room, so the

42 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

designer’s challenge was to ensure it felt like the boy’s personal space while also providing a sense of welcome for visitors.

As far as recent popular trends go, “less is more” seems to be in style. Children’s and teens’ rooms, long known to be stylistically very busy, are now trending toward more calming and serene designs. The reasons for this seemingly sophisticated shift are unknown, but it’s surely a comforting fact for parents. This year’s popular colors are indicative of the trend: girls’ rooms are typically done in pale blues and lavenders mixed with neutral tones such as ivory and oatmeal, and boys’ rooms are bold with shades of navy, brown and red. These are all “safe”

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design

44 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

color schemes worth presenting to your youngest family members.

When asked what she considers as essentials for a child’s room, Lybrand says they differ for each client. However, she gives some useful advice regarding investment pieces that are functional and won’t go out of style — Roman shades and drapes. “When it does come time to change the bedding, the window treatments can stay and work with a totally different look,” she explains. They also help to control light and privacy.

Any bedroom can feel complete by playing up the largest aspect of it — the bed — as Crenshaw’s team did. The boy who lives in this room was not particularly choosy; he just wanted to use his favorite colors, blue and gray.

To make a statement while sticking to his simple request, the team made an oversized headboard and low footboard with eye-catching horizontal stripes.

Then, they added a few elements to give the room a bit more detail and personality, including the large square nail heads and the pillow with the young man’s first initial. In this home with several children, the small but special symbol of the letter pillow takes the room from being just another in the mix to his own. Tip to remember: boys don’t typically care for monograms.

Some final advice for decorating a child’s room is to try to think like a child, especially if the process becomes frustrating. It’s the perfect time to get creative — maybe set aside some time to make something special with the child to display in their room. When all is said and done, parents may be surprised to learn something about their offspring that they didn’t know before. That will make the whole process worth it.

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design style MARKETPLACE

Kids' Rooms

STYLE YOUR CHILD'S ROOM WITH THESE FABULOUS FINDS

Oopsy Daisy Starry Sea Night Light $29, www.laylagrayce.com

Hand-Knotted Sheep Sham $29, www.rhbabyandchild.com

Sophie Storage Footstool $690, www.poshtots.com

Sidekick Media Bookcase $809, www.ethanallen.com

Geometric Burlap-Lined Baskets $58, kirklands.com

Max the Plush Monkey $15, pier1.com 46 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Alice in Wonderland Storybook Blanket $75, uncommongoods.com

Sidekick Small Round Mirror $209, www.ethanallen.com

Elephant Shaped Rug $49, potterybarnkids.com

technology

Have it your way…

TEXT By ScoTT FuElling, PrESidEnT, PhoEniX unEqualEd homE EnTErTainmEnT

I

am fortunate as I truly enjoy my career. I constantly work in the best homes and deal with wonderful families.

However, the downside is that I am involved with highend technology which is sometimes “bleeding” edge, complex or so new that the kinks have not been completely worked out by the manufacturer.

We pride ourselves in helping our clients make good decisions, in meeting their needs while offering a forwardthinking approach into the future, because the one thing technology does do very well, and quite regularly, is change.

The first step in our process is to work with our clients to determine their needs, wants and desires. Sometimes those are different for each family member, but for the most part, they tend to have similar ideas.We discuss options and available solutions, working toward the initial design.

One major area of discussion these days is how households obtain their media.This includes audio, video, Internet content and so on. We are all creatures of habit, but the days of having a radio tuner and a cable box are quickly departing. Today’s media is quickly becoming all about streaming.

Don’t get me wrong, the good old cable or satellite box is fine for some content, but as time passes more and more of these needs are being duplicated on the Internet. In many cases, within 24 hours of a broadcast showing of a new episode of your favorite TV series, it becomes available through at least one streaming service. Some services charge a small fee, but convenience is valuable.

Apple recently announced a TV service for which they have lined up broadcast partners such as CBS, Fox and others.

Scheduled to launch in September, the service will definitely provide an alternative to the bloated cable and satellite packages 48 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

we have all become accustomed to. In time, we most certainly will be able to receive our favorite channels, programs or series free or for a small fee through services like these.

The biggest challenge now is managing the sources necessary to receive the content you want. Services are currently built on multiple platforms, each requiring a specific subscription box or “media player” for access. In addition to managing and controlling these devices, users have to remember which device provides what content.

The best option is to integrate all of these devices into one control system — a favorites page which you can use to select what you want without having to select a source, then navigate through multiple menus. If you want to watch a specific channel, simply select that icon. If you want to listen to a specific music source, select the icon. If you want to order up a movie, select the icon. The system knows which source and what channel number or menu command will get you there, all through a simple on-screen display through your television or through an app on your portable device. The switching, selecting and setup are handled automatically.

In some of our clients’ homes we have implemented keypad buttons that allow them to select their favorite Pandora channel with a single press, their second favorite with a double press and shut the music off with a triple press. Ah, the power of today’s home control.

By working through these details on the front end, the result is a reliable, easy-to-use solution that can be easily modified as needs or interests change. Proper and detailed front-end planning truly makes home technology work for you.

Till next month…

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home trends

IT’S COMMON “CENTS”

TO REMODEL FOR AGING-IN-PLACE TEXT BY ROBIN TERRY, WEST TENNESSEE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

A

ll it took was one misplaced step in the middle of the night for my 82-year-old mother-in-law to fall and break her hip. The cause: getting out of bed while not fully awake, and an area rug next to her bed that slid on her polished hardwood floors.

As so often happens, my family was forced to address the issue of a potentially unsafe housing design when we were already in crisis mode. Like many seniors, my in-laws built their home in the 1960s, and never thought what that home would be like to live in 40 years later. Reality set in when we recognized how difficult it was to navigate the turn from either bedroom into the narrow hallway barely wide enough for a wheelchair. And the lone bathroom in the house included only a tub.

This situation isn’t uncommon, and those who work with an aging population daily meet families who face decisions about whether they can safely remain in their homes. Studies conducted by AARP confirm that older homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to age-in-place, which means they want to live in their current home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of their age or ability levels.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers, in collaboration with Home Innovation Research

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Labs, NAHB 50+ Council and AARP developed the Certified Aging-in-Place (CAPS) program to address the needs of the growing number of homeowners who will soon require modifications to their existing homes to help them remain in place. CAPS certified professionals across the country are contractors, suppliers, architects, designers and health care professionals.

The West Tennessee Home Builders Association (WestTNHBA) is offering the three-day NAHB CAPS certification course at its Education Center at 5400 Poplar Ave. in Memphis. Through the generosity of the Plough Foundation, the association received a grant to help health care professionals, like occupational and physical therapists serving clients in Shelby County, achieve scholarships for the classes. For these professionals, becoming CAPS certified not only teaches them what should be done in their clients’ homes, but also helps them plug in to a network of contractors and suppliers who can do the work. WestTNHBA promotes the courses and designation with the motto “Renovate. Don’t Relocate” and encourages consumers to look for CAPS designated contractors who have special training in identifying the unique needs of the older adult population and know solutions to common barriers.

Pat Mahoney, owner of Remodeling Consultants, Inc. in Germantown, is a member of WestTNHBA, Chairman of the 2015 local Remodelers Council, a CAPS certified contractor, and instructor for the course. “When I’m looking at a potential project, I advise clients to consider modifications that will help them stay in their home as they age,” Mahoney explains. “Many times, they’re thinking about the beauty of a finished project, but not considering how that space will be used as they mature. Thinking ahead can save them a lot of money in the long run, and help them remain in their existing home as long as possible.”

Mahoney says there’s much more to aging-in-place design than just adding grab bars or replacing tubs with step-in showers. “That’s certainly important for their safety,” he comments, “but what if the only bedrooms are on the second story, or the only entrances into the home include several steps?”

Ron Carelle, manager of Ferguson Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Gallery in Cordova, says manufacturers are recognizing that consumers want products to make their homes safer, but don’t want their house to look like a hospital. “Many of the new accessibility and safety products are really quite beautiful,” he explains, “and don’t detract from the room’s overall design.”

CAPS courses are scheduled at WestTNHBA for July and September. For more information on the classes and to find local CAPS designated contractors and suppliers, call 901.756.4500 or visit www. westtnhba.com.

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visit this design

Monkeys and LLaMas and deer,

Oh My!

TexT by Morgan PruiTT | PhoTos CourTesy of Tennessee safari Park

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visit this

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nimal lovers from across the Mid South are flocking to tiny Alamo, TN, to visit the Tennessee Safari Park. Oneof-a-kind activities and programs offer a unique experience to park guests.

Visitors get the chance to view and interact with hundreds of animals, including many rare species that are exclusive to the destination.

is a petting zoo featuring chickens, goats and llamas.

The Tennessee Safari Park’s VIP Tour provides an in-depth experience. From an open-air vehicle with a specialist as a guide, guests can interact with animals that most visitors to the park seldom get the chance to view. This exciting tour lasts for two and a half hours and costs $75 per person.

On the popular Drive Thru Safari, a two-and-a-half-mile route, guests can view the wildlife in their own environment and perhaps even catch a glimpse of adorable baby animals playing in the natural habitat. For a truly intimate meetand-greet, guests can purchase feed buckets and offer some of the park’s more docile inhabitants a car-side snack.

The park’s field trips are popular among schools in the Mid South. Children love the opportunity to step outside their classroom and learn about wildlife in a natural setting.

Tennessee Safari Park employees guide field trip groups through the safari and the zoo. Field trip prices are $8 per student, $12 per adult and $10 per chaperon. Teachers and bus drivers are admitted free.

In the park’s Walk Thru Zoo, visitors meet species of birds and reptiles in habitats. Also included in the Walk Thru Zoo

Boy and Girl Scouts can learn about wildlife and earn a badge through the park’s Scout Programs. Popular Zoo-

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visit this

it-yourself Parties are designed to allow the guests become the leaders of their own wildlife experience. These events, which make exceptional birthday parties, include petting zoo feedings and a nursery visit, a meet-and-greet with a Wildlife Ambassador, access to the Drive Thru Safari, and use of indoor and outdoor picnic areas. Prices for the Zoo-it-yourself Parties are $10 per adult and $8 per child. The Scout Programs are $10 per person.

In the park’s conservation area rescued endangered species from across the world are kept out of harm's way and their safety is ensured. Some species protected in the area include the Pancake Tortoise, Indian Hog Deer, Bontebok, Lowland Anoa, Sitatunga, Western Grey Kangaroo, Brush Tailed Bettong, Nyala, Prehensile Tailed Skink, Tufted Deerk, Bornean Bearded Pig, Arabian Oryx, Pere David Deer, Australian Brush Turkey and Paca.

According to Mallory Clark, Tennessee Safari Park’s director of animal husbandry and education, the singular opportunity

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the facility provides visitors will lead to conservation. "We are firm supporters of creating lasting memories for our guests; we believe people will want to take action in saving these animals if they are able to create a connection with them.

With that mission in mind, we strive to create safe, interactive opportunities for our guests to experience wildlife in a way that is unique and educational," she says.

The newly created Friends of Tennessee Safari Park non-profit fund of the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation is intended to aid in the facility’s wildlife conservation efforts. Says Clark, “With so many species being phased out of zoological parks, the ability to see great species diversity in zoos is in peril. Our mission is to aid in the care and husbandry development of the animals at the TNSP so that no species will be turned away.” The Tennessee Safari Park receives no city, state or federal funding, adds Clark, but relies solely on the Friends of Tennessee Safari Park to help make its goal a reality. Donations go to fund the park, to build new homes for the animals, and to provide food for them.

Days are exciting at the Tennessee Safari Park, an attraction people of all ages can enjoy. Clark says that the most rewarding part of her job is being able to connect with children and spark their interest in the world around them. “These kids are our future conservationists and if we don't get them excited about it now, then we may lose the opportunity. I love every aspect of my job and I want to show others how rewarding helping wildlife can be."

Clark adds that the Tennessee Safari Park encourages wildlife enthusiasts to become volunteers at the facility.

Whether it’s only for a one-time special event or on a regular basis, the park welcomes volunteer helpers.

Opportunities are also available for interns in the summer, fall and spring.

Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $8 for children—cash or checks are the only acceptable forms of payment.

For more information on volunteering and internships, directions to the park, group pricing rates, conservation efforts, events and parties, programs, hours of operation, and the plethora of animals, visit the park’s Facebook page at TennesseeSafariPark or their website at tennesseesafaripark.com.

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getaway

FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE A TOWN REMINISCENT OF MAYBERRY TEXT BY FRANCES J. FOLSOM | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISITFRANKLIN.COM

he quiet town of Franklin, 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Nashville, teems with history and beautiful architecture. This is Mayberry come to life; you can imagine Sheriff Andy Taylor ambling down Main Street. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has awarded its Great American Main Street Award to the 16-block area of Victorian architecture that makes up Franklin’s downtown.

Franklin bike tour winds through historic neighborhoods and along the cycling path by the Harpeth River. The Civil War tour pedals to battlefield sites, farms and cemeteries.

The area’s history centers on the Civil War Battle of Franklin, which took place November 30, 1864. One of the bloodiest struggles of the war, 10,000 Federal and Confederate troops were killed during the campaign.

Owners Kelly Harwood and Ira Shivitz usually keep the front doors of Gallery 202 flung open wide to welcome visitors inside. The Federal-style brick house brims with wonderful paintings, pottery, jewelry, art glass and sculpture by local artisans.

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OUTDOOR SPACE Franklin on Foot offers a variety of guided walking and bike tours. During the Classic Franklin walking tour, knowledgeable guides relate the town’s history. The Scenic 56 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Bowie Park and Nature Center covers over 700 acres and encompasses 17 miles of trails great for hiking, biking and horseback riding.

DOWNTOWN AND SHOPPING

Housed in a c.1820 Greek Revival building Landmark Booksellers holds thousands of new and rare volumes. The shop is known for its comprehensive compendium of books on the Civil War.

The Factory at Franklin offers onestop shopping. Twelve restored 1920s-era factory buildings hold locally owned shops, galleries, restaurants and theaters.

CULTURE The Louise G. Lynch Archives and Museum houses extensive exhibits outlining the history of Franklin and Williamson County. Firearms, swords, canteens and Federal and Confederate uniforms recovered after the Battle of Franklin are on display.

The McLemore House AfricanAmerican Museum, c.1880, was built by Harvey McLemore, a former slave who became a successful farmer. Owned by April 2015 • athomemms.com | 57

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the family until 1997 when it was purchased by the AfricanAmerican Heritage Society, the museum serves to preserve the heritage of African-American culture in Franklin.

In 1932 Leslie and Mabel Cheek, of Maxwell House Coffee fame, hired noted New York architect Bryant Fleming to design their mansion and gardens in Nashville, which is just about 20 miles from Franklin. Now open to the public, Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Art Museum boasts a dozen gardens ranging from Japanese to dogwood to boxwood. The Georgian-style mansion holds an extensive collection of American decorative arts.

Staying Tucked away behind one of Main Street’s historic homes, The Cottage on Main Street is a vintage restored twobedroom house. Everything here is 21st century from the

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gourmand’s kitchen to a wireless Bluetooth speaker for music and Apple TV for live streaming.

At Butterfly Meadows Inn and Farm each of the seven guest rooms is minimalist and stylish in design. Relax on the porch and enjoy views over the meadows and gardens or walk some of the trails that crisscross the surrounding woods.

The Drury Plaza Hotel Franklin is ideal for families traveling with children, thanks to its indoor pool. Breakfast, soft drinks, popcorn and Internet are complimentary.

Dining anD nightlife Gray’s on Main is Franklin’s place to see and be seen.

Patrons dine on signature dishes such as shrimp and grits or wild boar on the first floor then sip libations while listening to live music one flight up.

The house specialty at 55 South is blackened alligator. Other menu selections range from seafood gumbo to stuffed pheasant.

Franklin’s Boiler Room Theater, located in the Factory at Franklin, presents a variety of theatrical performances throughout the year. In April the Franklin Theater will feature Lynda Carter, the Annie Moses Band and Marty Stuart.

Historic Homes Several houses that played pivotal roles in the Battle of Franklin still stand around town. Built in 1826, Carnton Plantation with its wide, two-story front portico is a fine example of Southern architecture of the 19th century. Now a museum, the home served as a field hospital for Confederate troops during the Battle of Franklin. On view at Carnton until April 26 is the special exhibit “Battle Scarred: 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin” which includes important artifacts from the battle.

The Carter House, c.1830, is a simple farmhouse near the battlefield. Before the battle Federal Brigadier General Jacob Cox commandeered it for his headquarters.

Still visible at the Lotz House, c.1855, are burn marks from a cannonball that struck it. The dark stains on the wood floors were caused by blood as, like Carnton, the Lotz House was used as a field hospital. The home is filled with period antiques and a rare collection of John James Audubon stuffed birds.

Tip: Admission to Carnton Plantation and the Carter House is $15 each, Lutz House is $10. The Value Ticket, $30, gives admission to the three houses. events 25th Annual Franklin Jazz Festival: April 18, 10 a.m., The Factory at Franklin. Fourteen school jazz bands and noted jazz artists.

Main Street Festival: April 25, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and April 26, 12-6 p.m. Crafts from 200 artisans, food and entertainment.

For further information contact the Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 866.253.9027 or 615.791.7554 or go to www.visitwilliamson.com.

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PHOENIX FOR FAMILIES TEXT BY TRACY LOUTHAIN PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GREATER PHOENIX CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU AND VISIT PHOENIX

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estled in heart of the Sonoran Desert lies a beautiful place punctuated by majestic saguaro cacti, mesquite trees and red-rock buttes, and surrounded by jagged mountain ranges. The city of Phoenix is at the heart of the greater Phoenix area, which encompasses more than 20 cities and 2,000 square miles.

As the host city for Super Bowl XLIX, Phoenix demonstrated it has the amenities to host a national sporting event as well as a great family vacation. History, museums, adventure tours, sporting events and natural attractions offer activities for all ages.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park 60 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

travel

With more than 40 luxury resorts in the area, selecting a place to stay is no easy decision. In an effort to cover more ground, we split our trip between two of Phoenix’s most family-friendly resorts, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak.

First stop — the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. It was after midnight when we reached the resort and our kids, ages 10 and five, were exhausted. That is until we entered the Gold-level room and were welcomed with a delectable tray of treats to dip in chocolate fondue, fueling an instant sugar high and very happy children.

In the morning, we set out exploring the resort. The Princess was as graceful and enchanting as its royal name suggests, a divine mixture of luxury and comfort nestled within the desert landscape. Those who stay at the AAA Five Diamond resort will want to visit nearby attractions as well as carving out time for the Princess herself.

After undergoing a five-year, $60 million property renovation, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is dressed to impress. For mom, the Well & Being Spa offers a fully-customized wellness experience. For dad, the TPC Scottsdale features 36 holes of golf, including the recently

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”

as graceful & enchanting name ” as its

royal

renovated Stadium Course. Multiple pools and giant waterslides provide the kids endless fun, and the Trailblazers Kids Club (ages five to 12) promises daily adventures. The Trailblazer Adventure Center includes games and activities, and rents fishing poles for use in any of the three catch-and-release ponds. Our son was excited to catch an enormous catfish as well as several bream.

While staying in a Gold Suite, we enjoyed access to the Fairmont’s Gold Lounge, which serves an impressive continental breakfast and features an evening honor bar. Anticipating guest needs is a specialty at the Princess, and our son was thrilled when the server offered us bread for feeding the ducks.

Meticulously manicured grounds make the resort a popular home for ducks, rabbits and quail as well as the Princess’ honorary mascot, a desert tortoise dubbed Cecil.

Top lefT: Malibu, CA. Top RighT: Anaheim Disneyland. MiDDle & BoTToM lefT: hollywood Walk of fame.

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Located just 30 minutes from the Scottsdale Princess is the Goldfield Ghost Town, preserving history and introducing a new generation to the gold rush. In the 1890s, Goldfield was a boomtown with 50 working mines in the district. As we sat on the deck of the Goldfield Saloon at the base of the Superstition Mountains, it was easy to picture what life was like in this once thriving mining town at the turn of the century. For a small fee, visitors to Goldfield can ride the narrow-gauge railroad, pan for gold, experience the mystery shack and tour the famous Mammoth Gold Mine, learning about the life of a miner and even where the expression “pulling your chain” originated.

An afternoon in Goldfield is like stepping into a storybook.

Near Goldfield is the town of Mesa. Like many cities that make up greater Phoenix, Mesa has a wealth of attractions and activities of its own, including Agritopia with Joe’s Farm Grill, recently featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and Schnepf Farms, the largest organic peach grower in the state.

Returning to the Fairmont, we dined at La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval, one of five restaurants on property.

Seated at a fire table on the patio, the setting was serene and bathed in the soft, warm glow of the fire with a sky of twinkling stars overhead. From tableside guacamole and tequila flights garnished with a real rattlesnake head to the sizzling flaming coffees and scrumptious churros for dessert, it was a captivating celebration of culinary masterpieces, and the perfect ending to our cherished time at the Fairmont Princess.

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Next stop, the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort, located on 27 acres at the base of the Phoenix North Mountain Preserve. We stayed in one of the 80 casitas, which offer a spacious downstairs living area and kitchenette. With the bedroom upstairs, kids can turn in early while parents enjoy time alone downstairs. The Hilton’s Spanish-Mediterranean design complements the landscape and stunning sunsets, which light the resort in a sea of reds, oranges and pinks. The four-acre River Ranch with lazy river, shimmering pools, waterfalls, waterslide, tennis and basketball courts, and Coyote Camp are a hit with kids, and the mini-golf course is fun for the entire family.

We toured the Phoenix Zoo, which houses more than 1,300 animals, including 30 endangered or threatened species. The zoo’s Desert Lives trail provides a safe way to traverse the rugged landscape while viewing indigenous animals including bighorn sheep. The Arizona Trail also showcases native species including coyote, mountain lion and Mexican wolf. For an added fee, families can feed a giraffe, ride a camel or pet stingrays.

Yearning for an authentic desert experience, we headed to Fort McDowell to explore the region on horseback. Operated for more than 20 years by Troy Haviland and his family, Fort McDowell Adventures proved to be an unforgettable experience. “Who cut these trails?” we asked our guide. “I did,” he replied. Our guide knew every inch of the seven-mile ride. Bonnie, Double Stuff, Jazzy and Clyde became our four-legged guides for the next hour and a half as we explored the Yavapai Indian reservation, a 25,000-acre span located near the McDowell Mountains. We traversed the desert learning about the native plants, including the saguaro cactus, which is only found in the Sonoran Desert, and the Palo Verde, Arizona’s state tree and my horse Bonnie’s favorite treat. The highlight of the adventure was riding our mounts into the Verde River

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HOMEfeature

while wild horses drank along the shore, providing a thrill for the entire family.

Afterwards we headed indoors to learn about the area’s Native American heritage at the Heard Museum. Located in downtown Phoenix, the facility’s exhibit galleries and interactive crafts provide an informative introduction to the 21 tribal communities officially recognized as Arizona’s first people.

Our next adventure began at 6 a.m. with a driver picking us up at the resort and asking us to sign a release waiver.

Luckily, we knew Hot Air Expeditions is one of the oldest balloon companies in Phoenix, operating for more than 25 years.

As pilot Bill Heck greeted us, we were immediately put at ease by his warm, friendly welcome and his jacket patch that read “1995 Tempe Balloon Festival.” We learned that Heck first piloted a balloon in 1979, further removing any doubts about the safety of our flight.

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The team jumped to action unrolling and filling the massive multi-color balloon. As we loaded into the 24-person basket and the captain fired the burners, swaths of heat warmed our head and shoulders. With the burners firing, the basket slowly ascended and the crew gently released us into the air. Slowly rising above the desert, we were surrounded by mountain ranges drenched in morning fog, and the vibrant balloon lifted through the clouds.

At our peak, we reached 3,000 feet above the ground. While in the air, our captain shared facts and stories about Phoenix, its mountain ranges and the sights below, taking intermittent breaks to fire the tanks. He expertly piloted the balloon through varying heights and currents as he navigated toward a clearing in the desert.

Our basket gently reached the ground as though it were a ship in a padded dock. Once again the crew jumped to action, some deflated the balloon while others prepared breakfast. In no time, the breakfast bell rang and we all gathered at tables. Captain Bill lead us in the balloon man’s toast. With a clink of our glasses, memories of the incredible flight were etched in our minds forever.

Our final excursion was a scenic drive through the Lost Dutchman State Park to Canyon Lake. Heading up into the mountains provided yet another beautiful perspective of the stunning desert landscape. And since Phoenix is only three hours from the Grand Canyon, we’re already planning a return trip.

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arts

CARON GALLERY FOR THE LOVE OF ART

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TEXT BY BAILEY HELDMAR | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CARON GALLERY

ou might not expect Tupelo, Mississippi, to be a hub for art galleries, but Kim Caron has created a special space for local artists at her shop in downtown Tupelo.

Caron Gallery has everything from oil paintings to jewelry to pottery.

That dream became a reality in 2010, and the gallery has continued to grow. A little over a year ago, Caron Gallery moved to a historic building on Main Street in downtown Tupelo. The new space perfectly complements the gallery’s eclectic collection.

Caron explains, “We represent artists from Mississippi, from Oxford to Fulton to Jackson to Ocean Springs, and areas in between. We try to have a balance of mediums and genres, whether classic, folk art or modern art. We like to have variety in the art displayed and feel inspired to sell the art for the artists.” Caron Gallery is the perfect place to buy local art. Whether you are looking for handcrafted jewelry or a painting to liven up a room, you will find it amid the gallery’s diverse selection.

If you’re thinking of making a trip to Caron Gallery, be sure to call about upcoming events. Caron says special art and wine evenings have been a big hit. Featured artists speak about their art and career. Afterwards wine broker/sommelier Norm Rush describes the five wines that are about to be served along with a four-course dinner catered by local restaurant Park Heights. The gallery’s regular hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Although Caron was a business major at Mississippi State, she took every opportunity to take classes in the art department.

“That began my love of art and of the people who create it,” she says. Luckily for the people of Tupelo, Caron eventually turned her passion for art into a business. Caron admits, “I have been a supporter of the arts for a long time and dreamed of opening a gallery for 15 years.”

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When Caron opened her gallery, she fulfilled a longtime dream and created a haven for local artists and art aficionados.

She says, “The art gallery is more then just selling art. I have established some great relationships with artists and customers. When a customer buys a piece of art, they are investing in an artist’s career and allowing them to continue painting. At the end of the day, it’s about the relationships we form with the people of our community. It has been a fabulous journey so far."

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social

Black & White MASQUERADE

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED BY ICCS

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mmaculate Conception Cathedral School held its annual Black & White Masquerade, formerly the Mardi Gras Ball, on February 7 on the grounds of the school. Guests were bedecked in black and white with feathers and plumes a plenty and masks of all varieties. Approximately 400 people attended to enjoy the sounds of Jamie Baker and the VIPs, creole cooking from Chef Anthony Terrell and to bid on a range of silent auction items including fine art, high-end leather goods, antiques and designer fragrances. Action News 5 personality Ron Childers, who has hosted ICCS’s live auction for close to a decade, returned to offer his auctioneer skills, accompanied by his wife Joyce Peterson. Gold event sponsors were Crone & McEvoy Attorneys and Christian Brothers University.

Silver sponsors included Midtown Eye Care, ANF Architects, Horne & Wells Attorneys and Parker Uniforms, with the bar sponsored by AS Barboro and Rice Law.

Ray & Linzie Mullins, Brittany Miller & Michael Browder 72 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Keith & Robin Perry

social

Walker & Jennie Robbins with Catherine & Ricky Harris

Hands of Hope AUCTION PARTY

Madelyn Gray & Karen Tronsor

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT

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he University Club of Memphis was the place to be Saturday, February 28, as the Hands of Hope Auction Party was held to benefit The Exchange Club Family Center in Memphis. Around 500 guests attended this fabulous party, which was presented by Iberia Bank and SSI State Systems. Partygoers enjoyed bidding on hundreds of unique auction items. WMC TV's Ron Childers led the live auction, which was followed by dancing to the festive sounds of the Magi and Charvey Mac.

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Scott Blake, Wesley Smith, Willy Bearden, Ken Flynt & Mayor Bill Luckett

COAHOMA COUNTY TOURISM COMMISSION PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYE SCHULTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

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he Coahoma County Tourism Commission celebrated the opening of their new location at the Historic 1926 Clarksdale Station Train Depot. Guests enjoyed an evening of delicious food, cocktails and musical entertainment

by The Blackwater Trio to celebrate the occasion.

Kappi Allen & Cheryl Line

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Heather Williams & Roger Stolle

social

Former Speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives Jimmy Naifeh, Kelly & Randy Owen, Anita & Fred Harris

Country Cares PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANN MARGARET HEDGES, ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

John Oates

Jessi Alexander

C

ountry artists and nearly 800 music industry leaders gathered in Memphis Jan. 15-18 to kick off the 26th annual Country Cares for St. Jude Kids program to support the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The seminar event, one of the largest country music industry gatherings in the nation, provided St. Jude patients the opportunity to interact with some of their favorite artists and celebrated radio partners who together have raised national awareness and more than $500 million to help St. Jude fight childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases over the past 26 years. Artist attendees included Chase Bryant, Logan Mize, Cam Ochs, Josh Dorr, Kelsea Ballerini, John King, Jackie Lee, Craig Campbell, Randy Owen, Gloriana, Josh Abbott Band, Sam Hunt, Canaan Smith, Mickey Guyton, Steve Lee Olsen, Rachele Lynae, A Thousand Horses, The Band Perry, Seth Alley, Waterloo Revival, Native Run, Mo Pitney, Ruthie Collins, Dylan Scott, Craig Wayne Boyd and Olivia Lane. Guests attended a dinner at The Peabody Hotel and enjoyed live entertainment by several of these country celebrities. ®

Mary Jenkins & Anne Roane

Randy Owen, Jimmy Wayne, John Oates Jon Randall & Jessi Alexander April 2015 • athomemms.com | 75

social

Inaugural WINGS G A L L E RY

PHOTOS COURTESY WINGS CANCER FOUNDATION

Quilters Patricia Smith & Marilyn League

T

he Wings Cancer Foundation hosted a wine and cheese reception at The West Clinic in Midtown Memphis to kick off its inaugural Wings Gallery show. The first to fill the lobby area of the Union Avenue facility with their artwork was a group of quilters from the Memphis area. The wine and cheese reception served as a festive way to welcome the quilters. The quilters, whose works will be on display until June 3, are Marilyn League, Vanessa McCallum, Etta McFarland, Shirley Rich, Patricia Smith, Jeanie Velarde and Linda Wilson.

Chris West, Keri Burnette & Anita Vincent

"The Color Purple" by Shirley Rich Quilters Vanessa McCallum, Marilyn League, Jeanie Velarde, Etta McFarland & Patricia Smith 76 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

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experience this

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF THE

Double Decker

Arts Festival TEXT BY MORGAN PRUITT | PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS

78 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

experience this

W

hen people think of Oxford, Mississippi, their thoughts usually turn to Ole Miss, Saturdays in the Grove, museums and historic monuments, unique boutiques and delicious local eateries. However, Oxford is also home to the annual Double Decker Arts Festival, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary April 24-25.

The award-winning festival pays homage to the two doubledecker buses that have come to be a familiar sight around Oxford since they were imported from England in 1994. For the past 20 years, the event has attracted thousands of visitors; over 60,000 guests are expected to attend the 2015 Double Decker Arts Festival. Visit Oxford Director Mary Allyn Hedges says, “The festival showcases Oxford as a town that supports the arts and has quickly grown to be one of the champion events in the region.”

No Southern party would be complete without great food and the Double Decker Arts Festival will not disappoint. Local

vendors will be on hand serving everything from snow cones to roast beef sandwiches to pizza.

Works by over 150 artists will be on display. Featured talent in this year’s festival includes Celeste Lamb, Jack Catlette and Carolyn Watson. Regulated by the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, the artist showcase includes a variety of pieces including handmade crafts, drawings, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture.

Even the youngest members of the family will enjoy the weekend. Kids of all ages are welcome to join the fun at the Square Fair, where activities will be provided by the University of Mississippi Hospitality Management Department.

Festival organizers seek to showcase talented local performing groups along with the area’s best fine arts. The Graduate Hotel Stage on North Lamar Boulevard will be the site of a full slate of entertainment Friday evening, including a special live edition of Thacker Mountain Radio, and all day Saturday.

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experience this entertaining

”

80 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

OxfOrd is a tOwn that ” suppOrts the

arts

The Friday line-up includes: 6 p.m. – Water Liars 7 p.m. – Thacker Mountain Radio Hour with guest authors Greg Iles and Jamie Brickhouse, along with musicians Water Liars and the Reverend Wilkins.

8 p.m. – Reverend Wilkins

saTurday’s schedule FeaTures: 10:15 a.m. – Greater Pyrenees 11:30 a.m. – Daniel Karlish Trio 1:00 p.m. – Kenny Brown 2:30 p.m. – Marcela and Her Lovers 4:00 p.m. – Elliot Root 5:30 p.m. – St. Paul & the Broken Bones 7:00 p.m. – JJ Grey and the Mofro 8:30 p.m . – Trampled by Turtles Local artist Frank Estrada created this year’s Double Decker Arts Festival poster with all aspects of the event in mind.

Says the artist, “I wanted to have the courthouse in it. Looking at previous designs I don’t think the courthouse has been included. Music plays a big part of the festival so I wanted to include a stage as well.” Estrada’s work encompasses the festival extraordinarily, with its vibrant colors and aspects of the event packaged into one piece.

Oxford is home to a variety of other notable attractions worth seeing after a visit to the festival. Take in the University of Mississippi Museum’s “Our Faith Affirmed” exhibit, which features works of African American folk art from the Gordon W. Bailey Collection. Browse at Square Books, voted the “Best Bookstore in the Nation” by Publishers Weekly.

Follow the footsteps of famed author William Faulkner on the Bailey’s Woods Trail, a National Recreation Trail.

For more information on the Double Decker Arts Festival, visit doubledeckerfestival.com.

82 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

COVINGTON, TN

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 83

BRUNCH IN

Style

TEXT BY MACKENZIE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ALLEN STYLIST ANGELA MAZANTI

GET HOST YOUR OWN

84 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

entertaining

INSPIRED

BY EVENT DESIGNER ANGELA MAZANTI

!

SOPHISTICATED & UNFORGETTABLE SPRING BRUNCH

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 85

entertaining

86 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

The InspIraTIon “The inspiration for this brunch was definitely spring. Everyone, including me, couldn’t be more ready for some sunshine, warm breezes and Mother Nature’s eye candy popping out everywhere,” admits Angela Mazanti, owner of Angela Mazanti Event Design.

seT The scene “I used the historic Hunt Phelan home as the backdrop for this lovely brunch.

With all of the home’s charming rooms, it was easy to set the scene,” Mazanti says.

“One of my favorite rooms in the house has a gorgeous yellow wallpaper, and I thought it would be an excellent choice for ladies to dine in.”

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entertaining Décor Mazanti used her own china as the focal point for the brunch décor. She incorporated pops of color such as fuchsia, yellow, white and green in the plates and teacups to create a lively spring feel. Says Mazanti of the china, “It’s one of my favorite patterns and looks just as beautiful and relevant today as it was when it was created.” Mazanti positioned the tables in front of the yellow wallpaper so that the fuchsia and yellow plates and teacups would be further complemented. “I used plain ivory linens in order to let the china be the star of the show,” she explains.

Menu The brunch menu included a variety of finger sandwiches such as chicken salad, cheddar and jalapeno pimento cheese, and the classic cucumber sandwich. The salad was a bed of mixed spring greens with goat cheese and carmelized walnuts topped with blackberry balsamic vinaigrette. A variety of desserts including German chocolate tarts, lemon bars, mocha bars, pecan pie tarts and Boston cream pie tarts provided a sweet finish to the meal.

Host Your own Mazanti says a hostess can replicate such a beautiful afternoon either at home or at a venue like the Hunt Phelan Mansion.

“Readers can throw a brunch like this in their own home—maybe on a patio or a wrap-around porch. Or if you would rather have it somewhere else, you can rent places that will let you come in and host a small event like this,” she says. Mazanti suggests considering one of the many Victorian homes now operated as party venues in nearby small towns such as Rosemark, Eads, Covington and Somerville. She says, “These places are rich in history and have tearooms as well as bed and breakfasts that would be perfect for an event like this.”

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April 2015 • athomemms.com | 89

in the kitchen

I

Fruity Springtime Delights

t’s interesting to me that as hard as we try to make beautiful creations out of food, nothing can really compare to the natural beauty and vibrant colors of simple fruits and vegetables. To that point, this month I’m sharing two fruity dishes, one sweet and one savory. The fruit dip is my spin on the classic marshmallow creme fruit dip that has been around for years. This version has some tang from the sour cream, lots of sweetness, and a little tartness thanks to orange zest. The fruit skewers are self explanatory; you can pretty much take any fruit that looks fresh and arrange it the same way on skewers for a party or shower. It's such an easy thing to do, but it makes for a lovely presentation.

It’s also a fun activity for the kids to help with while you move on to other preparations—now that’s a win/win if you ask me!

As for my Fruity Feta Salad, it’s a must try! If you are a little unsure about the idea of fruit mixed with feta, think about a cheese plate where you have lots of sweet and savory flavors combined. I just mix it all together in this salad, and I’m telling you, it is to die for! Serve it with crackers, over greens, or just eat it with a fork. This is one dish I’ll be making all spring and summer long this year; it’s perfect for a picnic on a warm day.

For more delicious spring recipes, visit www.AprilMcKinney.com.

90 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL MCKINNEY

FRUITY FETA SALAD SERVES 6-8

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups purple grapes, halved • 1 cup strawberries, chopped • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted • 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbles • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice • 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon honey • 1/4 teaspoon salt • fresh ground black pepper, to taste • fresh parsley, chopped (optional) DIRECTIONS:

1. To toast the nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium low heat. Stir them occasionally for 6-8 minutes until they become fragrant.

2. In a large bowl, toss together the grapes, strawberries, toasted nuts and feta.

3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, oil, honey, salt and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss salad together until everything is coated in the dressing.

Garnish with parsley.

ORANGE SCENTED FRUIT DIP SERVES ABOUT 20

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 ounces cream cheese (may use light), room temperature • 13-ounce container marshmallow creme • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1/2 cup powdered sugar • 2 teaspoons orange zest DIRECTIONS:

1. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream chesse until smooth.

2. Mix in the marshmallow creme, sour cream and powdered sugar until smooth.

3. Lastly, stir in the orange zest.

4. Store in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve the dip with fruit of your choice.

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 91

dining out

Mindfield Grill

A TAsTe of Brownsville CulTure TexT by MacKenzie alexander

B

rownsville’s Mindfield Grill offers visitors a fresh and authentic dining experience. With a long tradition of offering the best food in town, from delicious sandwiches and fresh salads to mouthwatering steaks and scrumptious desserts, a meal at Mindfield Grill is nothing short of satisfying.

The specialty of the house is the 14-ounce rib-eye steak, which was voted “best in the county” according to the States Graphic newspaper voting. Elise Clinton, Mindfield Grill owner, credits the steak’s juicy flavor to it being hand-cut, marinated overnight and sprinkled with dry seasoning while cooking. While the generously sized and flavorful rib-eye is a

92 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

must try, Clinton also suggests one of her personal favorites— the bacon cheddar burger. Mindfield Grill serves one-third pound flame-grilled burgers on Texas toast or a bun with all the traditional toppings. Beef may be the star attraction, but Mindfield’s expansive menu brims with an assortment of

dining out

other tasty dishes sure to please every palate. Favorites include hand-battered, fried and butterflied shrimp, grilled salmon, lasagna with homemade meat sauce, and chicken smothered in mushrooms, bacon, cheese and honey mustard.

Exquisite sandwiches, wraps and a daily soup option are delicious lighter choices at Mindfield, as are a variety of salads, all made with fresh local produce. The strawberry salad with grilled salmon, Clinton’s personal favorite, features fresh romaine and spinach, strawberries, mandarin oranges, feta cheese, dried cranberries and pecans. The delicious combination of fresh ingredients topped with a piece of grilled salmon makes the dish as tasty as it is healthy. The menu also features an enticing spinach salad tossed with chopped eggs, bacon, red onions and mushrooms, creating a unique combination of delectable flavors. The Fried Chicken Salad combines healthy food and indulgence. The salad consists of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, cheese, bacon, potato sticks and fried chicken tenders (grilled is also an option).

Aside from the numerous salads and sandwiches, the restaurant’s menu also accommodates those who are trying to eat especially healthy. Mindfield Grill offers a “Diet Special,”— two grilled chicken breasts served with a cup of fruit or side salad. The homemade desserts, however, beckon diners to leave the diet behind and tempt their taste buds a little. Clinton’s lunch specials, served daily, and dinner specials every Friday and Saturday night keep the menu fresh and ever-changing.

Mindfield Grill’s most unique aspect may be its location next to artist Billy Tripp’s life work—Mindfield. Tripp’s much-visited metal masterpiece has become a local gem as it is treasured by the Brownsville community. Clinton says, “I find Billy Tripp to be a talented artist. I really enjoy his Mindfield.

It is great to see the amount of people that come take pictures.”

The Mindfield Grill is open for lunch Sunday-Friday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5:00-8:30 p.m. The restaurant can be contacted at 731.772.0901. or mindfieldgrill@gmail.com.

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happy hour

BLOOD ORANGE MARTINI RECIPE COURTESY OF GERMANTOWN VILLAGE WINE & LIQUOR

CONSIDERED SOME OF THE FINEST ORANGES IN THE WORLD, BLOOD ORANGES ARE SOMEWHAT TART. BUT TOGETHER WITH THE OTHER CITRUS IN THIS MARTINI, THEY WILL COMPLEMENT THE NEWEST MEMPHIS-MADE VODKA FOR A FLAVORFUL, REFRESHINGLY CLEAN AND BEAUTIFULLY COLORED BEVERAGE FOR SPRING.

INGREDIENTS: • 2 parts Thatcher's Blood Orange Liqueur • 1 part Pyramid Vodka • 1 sprig of thyme • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

DIRECTIONS: 1. Remove the leaves from the thyme.

2. Combine all other ingredients with the fresh herbs in a cocktail shaker with ice.

3. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Then garnish with an additional sprig of thyme. Enjoy!

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MARKETPLACE

SOURCES 18 | WELLNESS Special thanks to Dr. Betty Mirro

22 | FASHION Special thanks to – Hunt Phelan, huntphelan.com Katie Kalsi, katiekalsi.com Michael Allen, michaelallenphotography.com

28 | AT HOME WITH Special thanks to – Rebecca Dinstuhl Photographer, John Terry, Forest Hill Photography, foresthillphoto.com

30 | HOME FEATURE Special thanks to – Patty Michaelis

40 | DESIGN bluemoonbedding.com, rheacrenshaw.com

50 | HOME TRENDS Special thanks to – Robin Terry, West Tennessee Home Builders Association

52 | VISIT THIS tennesseesafaripark.com

56 | GETAWAY visitwilliamson.com

60 | TRAVEL Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, scottsdaleprincess.com Hilton Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak squawpeakhilton.com Visit Phoenix, visitphoenix.com Hot Air Expeditions, hotairexpeditions.com Fort McDowell Adventures, fortmcdowelladventures.com

70| ARTS Caron Gallery thecarongallery.com

78 | EXPERIENCE THIS Oxford Double Decker, doubledeckerfestival.com

84 | ENTERTAINING Special thanks to – Angela Mazanti Design, angelamazantidesign.com Photographer Michael Allen, michaelallenphotography.com

94 | HAPPY HOUR Special thanks to – Germantown Village Wine & Liquor

98 | ON A GOOD NOTE YouthTown, youthtown.net

April 2015 • athomemms.com | 97

on a good note

Eden of YouthTown Girls Program

Sertoma Boys Town Boys in the 1960s

YOUTHTOWN At Home Memphis & Mid South chats with Mark Taylor, chairman of the board of YouthTown in Pinson, TN

“I

met Johnny Cash back in 1972 in Nashville at the back door entrance of the Ryman Auditorium. Little did I know at that time the connection we would have many years later,” remembers Mark Taylor. Cash, along with Carl Perkins, Buford Pusser and Eddie Arnold, served on the board of YouthTown of Tennessee, a residential treatment facility for young men with addictions. Taylor is the current chairman of the board for YouthTown. “We all have served on this board, making us a band of brothers. How cool is that?”

Taylor says.

Taylor was introduced to YouthTown almost 10 years ago.

“Its mission and ministry spoke to me in a special way,” he explains. “I had been involved in prison ministry for almost 20 years in Memphis. Now I was being given the opportunity to serve and support an organization that was working to keep young men OUT of prison. I immediately got involved and quickly fell in love with this organization/ministry to its very core.”

YouthTown is located in Pinson, TN, after having moved from Memphis; it was formerly known as Sertoma Boys Town.

University of Memphis football Hall of Famer Nick Pappas served as executive director for 20 years and Dr. Pepper Pratt is currently at YouthTown’s helm.

The facility is a stone’s throw from the old Pinson High School on Highway 45 where Eddie Arnold attended school.

“Like many lifelong Memphians I often forget or find I’m unaware of the gems located all around us,” says Taylor, referring to YouthTown’s beautiful 250-acre campus. A quick drive from Jackson, the grounds are home to an 18-acre lake, a gym, a fitness center, cottages and dorms. Its on-campus private school, George Thomas, Jr. Academy, is fully approved by the Tennessee 98 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • April 2015

Department of Education. According to Taylor, many of the boys who obtain their high school diploma at the school during their treatment may have otherwise been dropouts. “Graduation ceremonies are very special events at YouthTown,” he adds.

Over 150 young men per year are served at the facility.

Taylor says the boys are often dropped off by their parent or guardian and may feel afraid and lost. They are immediately surrounded by YouthTown’s loving and caring staff.

Numbers of young people battling drug addiction continue to increase, says Taylor. He attributes that statistic to the fact that drugs are easier to obtain now than in the past. “This year YouthTown is increasing our efforts in the battle by opening a new girls’ facility, Eden of Youth Town, 10 miles from our current campus,” he reports.

“Addictions impact communities. One of the main ingredients in YouthTown’s success is community involvement and it is vital that communities continue to partner with us in the fight,” Taylor continues. “Presidents of corporations and universities, NFL football players, ministers and retirees all volunteer and mentor here. With this team approach, YouthTown has served thousands of young men over the past 50 years. The stories of impact continue to roll in.”

Taylor is grateful for the support YouthTown receives from the Jackson community at large, and from one prominent west Tennessean. “Kellye Cash, Miss America 1987, is our spokesperson. Kellye generously uses her talent, title and servant heart to let others know who we are,” he says.

Taylor is passionate about continuing “the legacy that began with the help of legends.” For more information or to volunteer go to www.youthtown.net or visit the campus in Pinson.