September 2012

FOR YOU • YOUR HOME • YOUR LIFESTYLE

Best of

Restored

A Historic Home

TENNESSEE

MAIN STREETS Travel to

Wine Country

CALIFORNIA’S

contents

SEPTEMBER 2012

52

38

30

30 | best of: SEPTEMBER 2012

TENNESSEE’S MAIN STREETS • YOUR LIFESTYLE FOR YOU • YOUR HOME

R estor ed

A Historic Home

Best of

A closer look at seven top picks, and the state’s overall program to help improve communities

TENNESSEE

MAIN STREETS Travel to

• YOUR LIFESTYLE FOR YOU • YOUR HOME

Wine Country

CALIFORNIA’S

38 | travel: A TOUR OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S WINE COUNTRY From Napa to Sonoma Valley, a grand tour that will please the most passionate wine enthusiast

ATHOMETN.COM

52 | home feature: HISTORIC HOME RESTORED IN EAST TENNESSEE

A couple with a vision brings new life to their historic house

The renovation and restoration of a very special home in Soddy-Daisy that dates back generations

See page 52 FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. 6 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

contents

SEPTEMBER 2012 48 | arts: FOUNTAIN ARTS GALLERY

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How it maintains its original values through flexibility and ownership

50 | technology: MUSIC, MOVIES & MORE Contributor Scott Fuelling talks about the best fit for your individual home

62 | design:

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COURTYARD MASTERpIECE A Belle Meade treasure transformed with European flair

Courtesy of DreamWorks Studios

72 | garden: IMpACTFUL pLANTS From the potato to cotton and pineapple, Andrew Pulte analyzes the contributions of our favorite flora

74 | in bloom: LANTANA A plant that provides long show in the garden with little care and maintenance

20 | fashion:

62

BEST ACCESSORIES FOR THE SEASON From purses to shoes, the best ways to accentuate your wardrobe this fall

24 | beauty: FALL MAKEUp TRENDS The hottest colors to use when the weather turns cool

26 | health: WOMEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE AND HORMONE REpLACEMENT THERApY Dr. Susan Murrmann of Memphis reflects on how far we’ve come on the study’s anniversary

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28 | lifestyle: SENIORS AND EXERCISE

IN EvERy ISSuE 12 | PuBliShER’S NoTE 14 | coNTRiBuToRS 68 | STylE MaRkETPlacE 76 | By iNviTaTioN — the social pages 92 | haPPENiNgS 97 | SouRcES 8 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

Healthy advice for staying fit and active no matter what your age

44 | at home with: MEMpHIS’ KATHY FARRIS

82 | entertaining: THROWDOWN WITH AN OAK RIDGE BOY How a country music legend celebrates his career with friends

86 | cuisine: OWEN BRENNAN’S – MEMpHIS Catching up with a New Orleans style favorite in the heart of East Memphis

89 | chef ’s corner: BREAKING BREAD Chef Charles Phillips goes homemade during his time off

90 | finance: THE REAL ESTATE STORY A Crye-Leike expert catches us up on the latest trends – and what we can expect in the near future

94 | roadtrip:

The Hollywood seamstress talks about creating costumes from The Help and her eclectic career at home

FALL FUN IN THE SMOKIES

46 | music:

98 | books:

MUSIC CITY SCENE

pERFECT ENGLISH FARMHOUSE

Kix Brooks: The country music star’s second favorite love: his Middle Tennessee vineyard

From an annual arts festival to a new family fun park, Sevier County has you covered

Rustic living at its best helps to escape the fast pace of today

SEPTEMBER 2012 • Vol. 11 No. 6 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Margaret Monger | mmonger@athometn.com

EDITOR janna fite herbison | jherbison@athometn.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRITTANY WALLER | bwaller@athometn.com

EDITORIAL COPY EDITOR TerrI Glazer

SOCIETY EDITOR

Lesley Colvett | lcolvett@athometn.com

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT

Charles Reynolds | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR REGIONAL ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Melissa Hosp | mhosp@athometn.com

senior ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Hilary Frankel | hfrankel@athometn.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES SUZANNE BOYD | sboyd@athometn.com ONEAL LEATHERS | oleathers@athometn.com donna roland | droldan@athometn.com Melanie Tigrett | mtigrett@athometn.com Holt Edwards | hedwards@athometn.com Allison P. Smith | asmith@athometn.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Trip Monger | tmonger@athometn.com

Webmaster/Office Assistant LAURIE SUMMERS

CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Linda Benton, Kristen Waddell, Shana raley-lusk, Libby Murphy, Chuck Dauphin, Andrew Pulte, Nancy Brown, Scott Fuelling, Charles Phillips, Dr. Susan Murrmann, Beth Willis, Jesse Muchmore, Caroline Wells, Jann Mirkov, Stacey Pierce, Karen Helm, Adele Sensing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ben Finch, John Terry, Bill LeFevor, Nicolete Overton

INTERNS Alexandra Comer, Jesse Muchmore, Nicolette Overton

HOW TO REACH US

671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200 | Cordova, TN 38018 TOLL FREE 877.684.4155 | FAX 866.354.4886 WEBSITE: athometn.com BEAUTY INQUIRIES: beauty@athometn.com WEBSITE INQUIRIES: web@athometn.com

At Home Tennessee does not accept unsolicited manuscripts.

To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Tennessee: 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Call 877.684.4155 or subscribe online at athometn.com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Tennessee is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018 or by e-mail to tmonger@athometn.com

10 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

publisher’s note

Homes with

Great History

R

eading this month’s home feature sparked me to start thinking about the need to renovate my own historic home. Don’t get me wrong, my home isn’t that old but it is filled with history.

Being a rather new “empty nester,” I have spent many recent evenings thinking about all the times when our home was filled with our children and their friends. I remember transforming our garage into a mini haunted house for our daughter’s Halloween-themed birthday party. I also remember burying about a thousand plastic bugs in our play yard for a birthday celebration for our son many years ago. Birthdays are big at our house but certainly not the only times we celebrate. Over the years we have hosted Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts with family and friends, but no celebrations compare to the random gatherings with our children and their pals. We have been blessed by being the “go to” house for both our children. We cook, make big messes and silence is rare. For the past four years we have fed about 15 of our son’s fellow football teammates on Thursday nights, as they prepared for the big game on Friday. We have enjoyed sleepovers after winter formals and proms. Our house seemed to be the one where lots of extra kids ended up when they needed a place to stay for a few days – in some cases a few years. I can’t imagine it any other way. Just last night, our house was the gathering place for about 20 moms who, like me, recently took their child to college and are having a hard time letting go. The age of my house might not fit the description for historic, but the memoires made there certainly are.

Now that our home is a bit quieter and cleaner, I was looking around thinking it is time to renovate a few rooms. Wallpaper needs to be replaced and a few walls could use repair. The paper in our entry hall that I swore would be the first to be replaced, is still there after 19 years. While our children grew so did the number of their friends, so cooking and cleaning took priority over the wallpaper. It will be easy to replace but some items will be a little harder to see go. I was recently checking out the sofa in the “man cave” only to lift the cushions to find old prom boutonnieres, empty sports drink containers and peanut shells. This sofa also ate so many remote controls that our son had no idea what happened to them. As I haul some furniture out to replace with new, there is no telling what I will find. I am sure, however, it will bring back happy memories of a house filled with laughter and children.

In the next few months our home will see some changes and although it will appear a little better kept, it will certainly be at a loss for the numerous children that had a part in its history. I look forward to when they all come back to visit and break in our new décor. I’m sure I will still allow them to put their feet on the new sofa. After all, it’s only “stuff” and what is a home for if not to be lived in? Again, not old in years but certainly the center of many happy times in the 19 years we have been there. For that I am very thankful.

12 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

contributors LESLEY COLVETT

attends some of the most fabulous parties throughout the state as social editor for At Home Tennessee Magazine. Colvett’s 10-year career in magazines began promptly after she graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism with her first job as editor of Memphis’ RSVP magazine. If you would like At Home Tennessee to attend your upcoming event contact Lesley at lcolvett@athometn.com.

SHANA RALEY-LUSK

is a freelance writer and regular contributor to At Home Tennessee magazine. Lusk is a lifelong reader who has a diverse background and education in fine arts, interior design and literature. Shana introduces a decorating guidebook that is sure to inspire new styles for older homes and farmhouses this month on p. 98.

ANDREW PULTE

is a gardening expert and internationally certified arborist who teaches at the University of Tennessee, contributes to several gardening publications and hosts a radio show, “Garden Talk.” Originally from Nebraska, Pulte now gardens and resides in Knoxville with his wife Beccy and son Theo. Andrew takes us on an enlightening journey through our tumultuous history with everyday plants on p. 72.

KRISTEN MYERS WADDELL

This month, Kristen introduces us to Memphis’ Fountain Art Gallery on p. 48. She is a member of the MidSouth Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, MPACT Memphis and the Arts Memphis BRAVO Memphis program.

NANCY BROWN

Nancy D. Brown is a travel writer whose work has appeared online and in newspapers and magazines nationwide. An avid equestrian, she publishes writinghorseback.com and the What a Trip blog, Nancydbrown.com. When not traveling, she lives with her family near San Francisco, California. This month, Nancy guides us through four of Northern California’s most wellknown wine regions and luxurious vacation spots on p. 38.

14 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

August 2012 • athometn.com | 17

Seasonal Fashion Accessories

fashion

Our favorite fall runway pieces to complete your wardrobe

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1) Corduroy Cap, $48, Anthropologie, anthropologie.com Tufted striations line this imported topper with a cozy newsboy sensibility; with wool, viscose and cotton lining.

2) Never Too Jaded Earrings, $13, ModCloth, modcloth.com Surrounded by intricate golden filigree, these smooth, jade-hued ovals practically glow with embedded crystalline bits 3) Printed Scarf, $65, JCrew, jcrew.com Add a brilliant pop of print with this three-season scarf, woven in a lush but airy wool mix.

4) Tasha Pretty Flower Headband, $28, Nordstrom, nordstrom.com A floral silhouette, embellished with sparkling rhinestones, tops a slim satin headband.

5) Large Linen and Leather Tote, $110, Land's End, landsend.com A refined tote that pairs classic linen with fine leather handles, bottom, trim and tassels. This tote was designed from the inside out to make it as practical to use as it is pleasing to look at..

6) Lady Lichen Flat, $33, ModCloth, modcloth.com Delicately embellished with black patent trim, these feminine flats boast a double bow atop the stitched teardrop design at your toes.

7) Reversible Leather Leopard Belt, $42, Michael Kors, nordstrom.com Versatile belt reverses from smooth leather to a tawny leopard pattern. Logo-embossed hardware subtly brands the look.

8) Epistle Ankle Boot, $145, Hush Puppies, www.hushpuppies.com Heritage styling and craftsmanship meet in this trendy, slouchy ankle boot with timeworn burnished vintage leather.

9) Large Crossbody Bag, $98, Steve Madden, nordstrom.com A styled cross-body satchel topped with an adjustable strap is updated in a bold pop of color.

10) Everly Pump, $425, Tory Burch, toryburch.com Sweet and sandy hues refresh snake-stamped leather for a feminine twist on a menswearinspired wingtip.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 21

beauty

FALL MAKEUP TRENDS

From lipsticks to eyeshadows, what's hot this season when it turns cool

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Nail Lacquer in Let's Go Crazy

Deborah Lippmann, $18, www.deborahlippmann.com

Lips in Mischief

Topshop Make Up, $15, www.topshop.com

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Eye Color Quads

Merle Norman, $25, www.merlenorman.com

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Nails in One Hot Minute

Topshop Make Up, $10, www.topshop.com

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Luxe Anti-Aging Waterproof Eyeliner IT Cosmetics, $24, www.gvc.com

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READY Dream Sequence Quad Compact Bare Minerals, $30, www.bareminerals.com

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Satin Luxe Lip Color with SPF 16 Sonia Kashuk, $10, www.target.com

Vitality Cheek Flush Powder Blush Stain IT Cosmetics, $24, www.gvc.com

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Brightening Violet Powder

Besame Cosmetics, $22, www.besamecosmetics.com

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Evercolor Automatic Waterproof Eyeliner in Deepest Brown Mally Beauty, $18, www.mallybeauty.com

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1 2 3 4

Treat your nails to the absolute best color with names inspired by classic jazz hits. Designed by Deborah Lippmann, manicurist to the stars.

Featuring modern metal-inspired hues to accentuate the eye, the Fall Color Collection provide an array of shades that pairs light and dark silvers (Tiara and Silver Dollar) with a deep sea teal (Blue My Mind) and earthy brown (Mink).

Velvet finish lipstick to smooth, moisturize and nourish lips. Apply for fabulous color and a moisturized matte finish.

Fast drying, extra-long wear with lasting glossy glitter finish and perfect coverage. Apply base coat, wear alone or apply over another color, and finish with glossy topcoat. For best results, always follow these three steps.

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Utilizing cutting-edge technology, NoTug Silk Antiaging Eyeliner glides on saturated, rich color without tugging on your delicate eyelids. Use the pencil to define the inner and outer rims of your eyes, or use above or below your lash line. It is also paraben-free, fragrance-free, and sulfate-free.

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Provides exceptionally vivid, longwearing color in an ultra smooth, silky texture for effortless application and seamless blendability. Contains four shades that create multiple looks.

These “weightless” lip colors help to soften, smooth, protect and hydrate your lips. They are anti-aging, packed with Ceramide 2 and Palmitoyl Peptide to help reduce wrinkles. They also contain Brown Seaweed Extract, a fatty marine botanical which helps preserve elasticity.

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Vitality Cheek Flush Anti-Aging Powder Blush Stain is a cheek stain infused into a powder. This hydrating, brightening and anti-aging blush gives the perfect naturally pretty flush of color to the cheeks.

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This creamy gel pencil smooths on effortlessly for a vivid, waterproof line.

It sets in 30 seconds so your eyeliner won't smudge, run or fade through the day. And it's infused with nourishing and conditioning ingredients.

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Brightening Violet Powder is a translucent loose powder that adds just a hint of brightness for an instant lift to any complexion.

It sets makeup beautifully and leaves a soft matte finish. The powder does not contain shimmers, but brightens because of the unique violet hue in this special formula. Deliciously fragrant, it suits any skin tone.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 25

J

uly 9, 2002, is a day that will go down in hormonal history, and a date that every gynecologist and those involved with women’s health care will remember.

Breaking news announced that the ongoing multicenter “Women’s Health Initiative” study involving close to 16,000 women was abruptly halted because the “risks outweighed the benefits” of hormone therapy for the prevention of heart disease – risks that the procedure possibly caused an increase in breast cancer.

Physicians remember this hormonal apocalypse like most people remember where they were when John Lennon was shot or when the World Trade Center was hit on September 11. It is hard to believe it has been 10 years.

health

The media and the public’s subsequent reaction to the news was like watching a train wreck happen… in slow motion. The ensuing chaos sent both women and the medical community into a panic. Public town hall meetings were planned with local medical experts explaining how to deal with the results, and the fear of being sued drove medical offices to draw up consent forms for those patients wanting to continue with hormone therapy. Some physicians told their patients to get off hormones because it was dangerous and they could get cancer, patients tied up the phone lines at doctor’s offices wanting to know what to do, and some called to say they quit their hormones cold turkey and were miserable. Never mind that in my entire professional history not once did I ever have a patient call and want to chat about quitting smoking because they heard that smoking causes cancer. The hormonal aftermath that ensued played out like a Shakespearean tragedy. And we all know how those end.

“TO TAKE HORMONES OR NOT TO TAKE, THAT IS THE QUESTION…” Shakespeare might have written this had he lived in our modern day.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY,

WOMEN'S HEALTH

INITIATIVE TEXT BY DR. SUSAN MURRMANN

26 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

So where are we now? Fortunately there is a silver lining in every cloud, but that silver lining rarely makes it to the front page. Since that fateful day in July of 2002, there has been a serious review of hormone replacement therapy and its role in women’s health care. Gone are the days when maturing women were seen as having a “disease” or suffering “a change” that needed to be corrected. Pharmaceutical companies have been busy creating a hormonal “cure all” for the afflictions of female aging, in order to promote a billion dollar drug business. The bad news is that now, more women than ever are confused about hormonal therapy, aging and the possible side effects of taking a medication that improves their quality of life.

health

What do we know after 10 years of review?

We know the study was flawed in many ways. The group of women who could most benefit from hormonal supplementation was underrepresented — the average age of the women in the study was 63. The original intent was to evaluate the role of hormones in the prevention of certain disease states (hip fracture and heart disease). In reality, however, we already know that osteoporosis and the beginnings of heart disease had long had their foothold in those women at risk by the time they started the hormonal therapy.

Fortunately, there are newer studies in the pipeline involving younger women (under age 59) and addressing the most important aspect of hormonal supplementation: the “quality of life” factor.

I asked my friend and fellow menopause expert Dr. Diane Pace (nurse practitioner, Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee, and President Elect of the North American Menopause Society) to comment about the “state of the hormone.” She points to the “Solidarity Statement” released on the 10-year anniversary of the controversial study, a collaboration between 15 organizations including the North American Menopause Society. It states that hormone therapy is still an acceptable treatment for menopausal symptoms and that many symptomatic women are missing out on the proven benefits. Most importantly, hormone supplementation is a discussion that needs to occur between a physician and the patient to determine who is or is not a good candidate for hormone therapy. Most importantly—“one size doesn’t fit all,” meaning hormone therapy should be tailored to the individual in dose and route of

administration. Baby, we have come a long way In the future, I predict the witch hunt for the in 10 years! cause of breast cancer will continue beyond blaming estrogen therapy. The adjudicated However it is hard to undo 10 years of results of the WHI have proven that estrogen confusion, and many women have completely alone does not cause an increase in breast cancer abandoned hormone therapy. Instead, some and that hormone supplementation given at patients have sought unproven alternative the right time and dose may be beneficial for therapies. Phrases such as “bio-identical,” some women. I also predict that the never“natural hormone therapy” and “custom ending search for the “fountain of youth” and compounded” often leave more women the pill/pellet/cream that will cure all ailments confused about hormone therapy than the will go on...and cause more confusion in the actual study did 10 years ago. So let me give future. you my abbreviated explanation of these terms.

Bio-identical hormone: a hormone made The bottom line: I recommend women have a identical to what your own body has produced. discussion with their physician about the risks Many pharmaceutically-made products and benefits of hormone replacement therapy. available today contain estradiol and natural The benefits are based on enhanced quality of progesterone that are bio-identical. You can life, not promises of looking younger or living also get “custom compounded” versions of the longer. It is all about feeling better, which same bio-identical hormones tailored to your can make you look better. And remember, own needs and delivery system. hormone replacement therapy is just a piece of the puzzle of healthy aging – you still have to There are also pharmaceutical brands of take care of yourself! hormones that are not bio-identical (some made from pregnant mares’ urine and other varieties that are made from the same compounds used in birth control pills). Hormone implant (pellets) clinics seem to be the new kid on the block, with promises of making you feel half your age and changing your life. Pharmaceutical experts say the effectiveness of pellets used for hormone replacement therapy is actually very dependent on the patient’s weight, amount of adipose (fat) tissue, and if the patient is active. These factors can all influence how the hormone is released into a person’s system. When considering this route of hormone replacement, women should make sure there is a board-certified physician on site and beware of the clinics wanting cash up front for a year of treatment.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 27

lifestyle

AGING AND

EXERCISE (SHOULD YOU?) TEXT BY BY JEREMY CROWE, CSCS, GERMANTOWN ATHLETIC CLUB

Photo by John Terry

Trainers often hear the excuse that people are just too old to really do any resistance or weight training. They feel more comfortable riding a stationary bike, walking the track or treadmill, or maybe not doing any exercises at all for fear of getting hurt. Maybe they’ve had a previous heart attack, heart surgery, were previously diagnosed with some sort of cancer, COPD or another illness or disease, and they worry that too much exertion could be dangerous. Well, they are both right and wrong. While people who have been diagnosed with the conditions above should monitor their heart rate and blood pressure both pre- and post-exercise, weight training can provide important benefits in the senior years, and both weight training and aerobic exercise are important to overall health.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends 30-60 minutes of moderate-intense aerobic exercise on most days of the week for cardiovascular disease prevention. Walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, spinning, dancing and a host of other exercises and activities are great examples of aerobic exercises. Aerobic exercise stresses the heart in a positive way.

While aerobic exercise good, anaerobic exercise is also important. What’s the difference? Think of aerobic as exercises that focus primarily on slow-twitch muscle fibers. These are the muscle fibers responsible for someone running a 5k, half marathon or marathon. In contrast, anaerobic exercises focus primarily on fast-twitch muscle fibers. These are the ones we use when we lift weights (bench press, shoulder press, leg press, squats), sprint, play sports or catch ourselves when we begin to fall from a trip or stumble.

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As people age, fast-twitch muscle fibers are lost, one reason for decreased stability in later years.

Maintaining and training existing fast-twitch muscle fibers is one of many reasons to perform resistance training throughout a lifetime. Lack of strength and balance often leads to the loss of independence for seniors. Just as when participating in aerobic exercises, heart rate and blood pressure must be carefully monitored, before participating in resistance training consult a doctor and consider hiring a qualified trainer for assistance.

cut carbs out of their diet in order to lose weight, but a healthy diet should be comprised of 55-65 percent carbohydrates. Persons performing resistance training need protein in larger quantities, as well. Most people just start eating more protein without knowing where their current caloric intake is, but this isn’t the best idea. To find out what your caloric intake is refer to www.myfitnesspal.com. Simply log everything you eat and drink for three-five consecutive days. Make at least one of these days a weekend day. The site will then provide you with a carb, protein, sodium and fat count Another important benefit of resistance for each day. Nutrition is at least 80 percent of training is increased bone density. Bone density success in the gym. decreases with age, especially in the hips and spine. Bone density is like money — it is wise Someone once said that “exercise is like a test to save it from youth onward because it will that we should be studying for our entire life diminish as we age, no matter what. The rate but, instead, we cram for at the end of our life.” at which it is lost is under a person’s control, Whether you’ve been studying for years or are however. Lifting weights, jumping up and down just beginning your journey, train smart, train and sprinting during younger years are activities often and train hard! that build bone density.

Jeremy Crowe is a Certified Strength and So now we know that both aerobic and Conditioning Specialist through the National anaerobic exercise are important as we age, Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). but how often should a person exercise? I Jeremy is also a Level 3 Golf Fitness Trainer and recommend five to six days per week of aerobic a Level 2 Golf Mechanist through the Titleist training for maximum effect. Make sure to work Performance Institute. hard enough so that conversation is difficult. As far as resistance training goes, allow about 72 hours of rest for recovery. As we age, muscles don’t repair as quickly.

While exercise is very important in later years, so is nutrition. Remember that food is merely the fuel that enables the body to function and perform. The primary source of fuel for the body is carbohydrates. Many people completely

best of

Collierville - Confederate Park Courtesy of the TN Dept. of Economic & Community Development

Best of Main Street,

Tennessee

text by Caroline Wells, Jann Mirkov, Stacey Pierce, Karen Helm, Adele Sensing, Laura Todd, and Janna Herbison

This month, At Home Tennessee is celebrating some of most unique and interesting Main Streets across the state. Here are seven of our favorites as described by those who know them best.

Tennessee has joined a growing national movement to improve the business climate in America's traditional downtowns. The state's Main Street program works with local communities to help improve the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of these areas. The “Main Street Approach to Revitalization”™ guides communities to develop strong, broad-based local organizations and to create a road map for implementation and management of the revitalization process.

COLLIERVILLE Located just east of metropolitan Memphis, the Historic District of Downtown Collierville 30| At Home Tennessee • September 2012

offers a unique experience for both shopping and dining. Collierville was designated as a Main Street community in 1991, and its volunteer Board of Directors continues to be dedicated to the preservation of the Historic District, the heart of downtown Collierville. Main Street Collierville is a non-profit organization that works diligently through its membership and sponsorships to track the ties that bind the heritage of the community. “A year-round calendar of events promotes community awareness of our Historic District,” says Laura Todd, Executive Director of Main Street Collierville.

A spring bridal showcase, an Easter egg hunt, the town’s award-winning signature “Sunset on the Square Summer Concert Series,” the annual Partners in Preservation Party & Taste of the Town, Scare on the Square, the Holiday Open House, and the Town of Collierville Tree lighting… Downtown Collierville offers something for all to enjoy no matter the season. (www.mainstreetcollierville.org )

FRANKLIN Since its founding in 1984, the Downtown Franklin Association has led the revitalization of Franklin’s historic downtown core. Downtown Franklin is an authentic, eclectic place with something for everyone in an atmosphere that reminds locals and visitors alike of a simpler time in history – it is a place where community matters. In 1995, Franklin received one of five “Great American Main Street” awards from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Since then, the town has also received awards such as “America’s Most Romantic Main Street.”

With more than 150 places to shop, eat and explore, Downtown Franklin also features various events throughout the year, including Franklin’s Art Scene on the first Friday of every month, Wine Down Main Street on November 2 and Dickens of a Christmas in early December. (downtownfranklintn.com)

September 2012 • athometn.com | 31

best of

Dandridge Visitors Center Courtesy of Jeff Bolduc - Red Door Gallery

Downtown Murfreesboro Courtesy of Rutherford County CVB Downtown Greeneville Courtesy of Main Street Greeneville, Inc

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DANDRIDGE Dandridge, a National Historic District and a certified Main Street community, is the second oldest town in Tennessee, first settled in 1783.

It sits along the shoreline of Douglas Lake, a prime spot for boating, jet-skiing, bass fishing and sailing. Many of the original taverns have been converted to boutiques or cafés, and one serves as the town hall and visitor center.

Officially accredited as a National Main Street Community by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the State of Tennessee, Dandridge has also made the Trust's list of “Dozen Distinctive Destinations.” With its true small-town feel, Dandridge provides an authentic East Tennessee experience. (vacationjeffersoncounty.com)

GREENEVILLE Shop, dine and explore this unique northeast Tennessee town adjacent to the Appalachian Trail, often referred to as “a jewel in the shadow of the Smoky Mountains.” Greeneville’s rich heritage is preserved in its homes, churches, museums, historic hotels and downtown. The downtown area features antique stores, art galleries, shopping, dining and the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site. The mission of Main Street Greeneville is to establish partnerships dedicated to the revitalization of the Main Street District, preservation of the historic structures and promotion of heritage tourism. Greeneville's annual event calendar includes, enjoy October scarecrow contests, Halloween Happenings on Oct. 31, Holiday Bazaars Nov. 3-4, Christmas in Downtown Nov. 30, December Parade Dec. 2, the “Snow Ball” Feb. 9, Taste of Greeneville May 7, the Garden Tour and Iris Festival May 18, and Downtown Cruise In on June 22. (www. mainstreetgreeneville.org)

JACKSON Downtown Jackson is a place of excitement.

The catalyst for this new energy is the Healthy Community, LLC development, Jackson Walk, which, when completed, will include upscale apartments, single-family homes and commercial space, anchored by LIFT. An initiative of West Tennessee Healthcare, LIFT is an 80,000-square-foot wellness center.

Jackson Downtown Development Corporation will host Main Street Live every Friday night during the month of September, featuring great local musical talent for the community to enjoy free of charge. On October 27, the Halloween Extravaganza will take place in downtown with trick-or-treating at participating businesses and other Halloween adventures. (www.downtownjackson.com) September 2012 • athometn.com | 33

best of

Downtwon Jackson Courtesy of Jackson Downtown Development Corporation

Collierville Courtesy of the State of TN Tourism Dept Franklin's Great American Main Street Courtesy of Williamson County CVB

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Downtown Murfreesboro Courtesy of Rutherford County CVB

MURFREESBORO Murfreesboro’s downtown area is vibrant and hip, with an ever-growing assortment of restaurants, retail stores, nightlife and boutiques. New additions include Pa Bunk’s Natural Market & Café, PJ’s Pizza and the nightclub Social. Downtown favorites include restaurants like Marina’s on the Square and Maple Street Grill, and specialty shops such as Bella’s Boutique, Sugaree’s, Trendy Pieces, Funtiques, the Write Impression, Holden Hardware and the Country Gourmet. The downtown square is home to the historic Rutherford County Courthouse, and plays host to many events throughout the year including the popular JazzFest, Friday Night Live concerts and the weekly Main Street Saturday Market. (www. readysetrutherford.com)

WINCHESTER Old Town Winchester, a vital marketplace for more than 250 years in the heart of the oldest city west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, features a full-service historic hotel and a quaint pedestrian mall bustling with outdoor cafés and specialty shops. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places Travel Itinerary as a site that successfully combines history, century-old buildings and museums with the vitality of an ideal downtown – creating a charming and sophisticated mainstreet atmosphere. Nowhere else can you stroll the streets that George Washington, Stonewall Jackson, Admiral Richard Byrd and Patsy Cline all graced with their presence. (www.winchester-tn.com)

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travel

Monterey County Monterey County Vinters & Growers Association Concannon Vineyard

Northern California Wine Country Best of

TEXT BY NANCY D. BROWN

From Napa Valley to the Monterey Peninsula, visit some of Northern California’s Most Beautiful Wine Regions.

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Fall in Northern California wine country pours color into your wine glass and your camera lens. These four wine regions and travel destinations offer top-notch dining, romantic hotels, stellar wine-tasting experiences and picture-perfect photo opportunities.

LIVERMORE, CALIFORNIA The name Livermore does not evoke visions of cows grazing in meadows or gently sloping hillsides lined with golden-hued vineyards, heavy with fruit on the vine. Yet this wine region is one of California’s oldest, dating back to the 1760’s, and it played an important role in shaping the state’s wine industry. Rest assured, visitors to this “other” Northern California wine country will not come away disappointed.

With 41 wineries, Livermore Valley is closer than you think. Located just 35 miles east of San Francisco, Livermore makes an inviting day trip or overnight adventure. Make sure to visit one of the patriarchs of the region — Concannon Vineyard. This family-owned winery was established in 1883 and is home to America’s first Petite Sirah grape varietal.

Have lunch or dinner at the elegant Wente Restaurant after a walking tour, wine tasting in the caves or perhaps a leisurely round of golf.

Will you be visiting the Livermore Valley during harvest? You won’t want to miss the 31st Annual Harvest Wine Celebration taking place Labor Day weekend, September 2-3.

At the end of the day, relax in the hot tub and rest your head at the Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa. This bed and breakfast features 10 rooms and suites on 23 acres in Livermore.

If You Go: • Concannon Vineyard: concannonvineyard.com • Livermore Wine Growers Association: www.lvwine.org • Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa: purpleorchid.com • Wente Vineyards: wentevineyards.com

NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA In the heart of downtown Napa’s Oxbow District, old-world market stalls offering organic produce meld with artisan cheese makers, fish mongers, the butcher, the baker and the cashew-brittle maker, all under one roof. Oxbow is a place where locals and visitors come to stock up on picnic supplies before heading out for a day of wine tasting, a bike ride along the tree-lined Silverado Trail or a spin in a kayak on the Napa River.

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travel

Downtown Napa Riverfront Paul Hobbs Winery Katherine Lindsay Vineyard

Chateau Julien

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Bottega restaurant in Yountville Frankie Frankeny

YOUNTVILLE, CALIFORNIA Travel up-valley to the charming town of Yountville, where Michelin-starred restaurants line up like soldiers, shoulder to shoulder, along Washington Street. Tiny Yountville is home to quite an impressive group of celebrity chefs, from the Food Network’s Michael Chiarello to the legendary Thomas Keller. If Keller’s French Laundry restaurant is out of your price range, stop for a pastry or macaroon at Bouchon Bakery or have lunch at Chiarello’s Bottega, featuring micro-regional Italian cuisine. After eating and drinking your way through Napa Valley, hang your hat at the Bardessono Hotel. Cruise around town on their complimentary bikes and circle back for a spa treatment or a dip in the pool with views of the Mayacamas Mountains and Stags Leap wine district.

ST. HELENA & CALISTOGA, CALIFORNIA Drop your bags at the Harvest Inn and drive a few minutes up Highway 29, to the town of St. Helena. Stroll the shops along quaint Main Street and stop in Woodhouse Chocolate, tucked in a 19th-century building, for my personal favorite — the caramels with fleur de sel.

From a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards of Castello di Amarosa to the steaming mud baths of Calistoga, visitors will have unlimited options to relax and unwind on a vacation in Napa Valley wine country.

If you are looking to rub elbows with Napa Valley vintners, you’ll want to buy tickets to Auction Napa Valley. Held in June, the annual multi-day extravaganza raises funds for health care and youthrelated charities in this tight-knit community.

If You Go: • Bardessono Hotel, Restaurant & Spa: bardessono.com • Bottega: botteganapavalley.com/index.html • Downtown Napa: donapa.com • Harvest Inn: harvestinn.com • Napa Valley Vintners: napavintners.com • Oxbow Public Market: oxbowpublicmarket.com • Woodhouse Chocolate: woodhousechocolate.com

SONOMA VALLEY Along the wine roads of Sonoma County you’ll find laid-back winemakers, friendly winery dogs and apple orchards backing up to lazy creeks and hillside vineyards. Give the folks at Wine Road a jingle and they’ll put together a custom itinerary for your trip. Go horseback riding through the vineyards of Chalk Hill Estate, then trade recipes with Executive Chef Didier Ageorges and finish with a wine tasting. Sorry, no horses allowed in the tasting room.

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travel

Bardessono Hotel, Restaurant, & Spa

If you fancy yourself an adventurer, go off the beaten path and head for the sea. Be one of the first to sip wines at the Fort Ross Vineyard tasting room. Perched high above the water on a sunny coastal ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Sonoma Coast vineyard recently received the Fort Ross-Seaview viticultural area designation.

After a day of driving through Sonoma’s redwood forests to the bright blue waters, set your GPS for the town of Jenner and the 48room Timber Cove Inn. Pack a sweatshirt; you’ll want it when you sit outside by the light of the fire pit roasting marshmallows for gooey, chocolate s’mores, then wake up in your room with a private view of the ocean. Does life get better than this?

If You Go: • Chalk Hill Estate: chalkhill.com • Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery: 42 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

fortrossvineyard.com/Tasting-Room • Timber Cove Inn: timbercoveinn.com • Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance: sonomavalleywine.com • Wine Road Northern Sonoma County: wineroad.com

MONTEREY PENINSULA, CALIFORNIA There’s more to the Monterey Peninsula than the white sands of Pebble Beach and the scenic 17 mile drive winding its way alongside the Pacific Ocean. Monterey wine country is located less than an hour south of Northern California’s Silicon Valley on the Central Coast and offers farm to table dining, wine walks by the sea and lodging set in the village or amongst the vineyards.

Wine Trail, stay overnight at the upscale Bernardus Lodge after a day of wine tasting along Carmel Valley Road or reserve a room in Carmel by the Sea. No matter your lodging preference, a glass of wine is never out of reach. If chic shopping and gallery hopping are more to your liking, stay and play in the village. La Playa, the grand dame of Carmel’s seaside community, has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation and is ready to show you a good time. Carmel’s Wine Walk by the Sea passport program, valued at $70, provides a $10 wine tasting flight at each tasting room in downtown Carmel.

Celebrate harvest with a dinner in Carmel Valley at Chateau Julien. The wine estate will You’ll need more than a day to visit Monterey be raising a glass to three decades of harvest in wine country. Meander along the River Road late September.

Sonoma Vineyard & House Dee Dee Daus

Timber Cove Inn

If You Go: • Bernardus Lodge: bernardus.com/lodge • Chateau Julien: chateaujulien.com • La Playa: laplayahotel.com • Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association: montereywines.org • Carmel Wine Walk by the Sea: carmelcalifornia.org/things-to-do/wine.aspx

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at home with

Designer sketch for Steenburgen’s suit Kathy Farris Photo by Nicolette Overton

Actress Mary Steenburgen wearing Farris’ suit Actress Bryce Dallas Howard ‘s dress in the “Benefit” scene

KATHY FARRIS:

Memphis’ Own Hollywood Seamstress Creating costumes for The Help to the stage… and everything in between TEXT BY JANNA FITE HERBISON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF DREAMWORKS STUDIOS AND KATHY FARRIS

When I first met Kathy Farris during our recent interview in Germantown, I was initially struck by her soft-spoken demeanor and humility. After all, Kathy has worked closely with more A-list actors during her career than most of us will ever meet in our lifetime. Case in point: she served as the head seamstress and stitcher for the movie The Help, creating and fitting costumes for everyone from Jessica Chastain to Mary Steenburgen.

After we chatted for a few minutes, she casually – and humbly – pulled out her Help script, with her name printed clearly across every last page. “Every person who has a copy of these official scripts, from the actors to the editors, has their name listed throughout,” she explains. “Then if any pages get leaked… they’ll know exactly who leaked them.”

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It was just one of many interesting vignettes about the world of major motion picture filming that Kathy has collected, but not at all the most interesting thing about the seamstress herself.

family is the reason. “My husband is my best friend and he supports all of my endeavors. He has sometimes had to be both mom and dad to our girls when they were growing up (and she was away on a set or stage), but I always knew I could count on him. My daughters, Melissa Over the past couple of decades, Kathy has and Jessica, are a great support as well, and developed a fascinating and eclectic career are also creative. I couldn’t do all this without making everything from stage and screen them.” costumes to bridal gowns and church banners.

Her resume made me tired just reading it – owner of Alterations by Kathy, cutter/draper For her work on The Help, Kathy took for The Notebook, seamstress for a Celine the head costume designer’s sketches and Dion concert video, dresser for Grease national transformed them into several of the costumes and outfits seen onscreen. “I enjoyed making touring company – and the list goes on. what Mary (Steenburgen) wore more than When I ask how on earth she has managed anything,” she says. “She was so appreciative of to do all this over the years with a husband the silk pajamas created for her character that and two daughters, Kathy says it’s simple – her she kept them!”

Kathy also created and fitted the pink embroidered skirt worn by actress Jessica Chastain in the bridge game scene, along with the outfits worn by twins Eleanor and Emma Henry, who both played the character of young Mae Mobley. For the “benefit” scene where Jessica’s character Celia accidentally rips the sleeve off Hilly’s (played

by Bryce Dallas Howard) green dress, Kathy had to re-stitch the sleeve for each of eight takes.

“It was challenging and definitely a collaborative effort by many on the costume design team,” says Kathy. “Bryce had to sit very still until Jessica walked up and ripped it off, and then I’d stitch the sleeve back on and we’d do it all over again,” she laughs. “People don’t realize the stories behind the scenes can be even better than what you see onscreen.”

She adds that her supporting role as a seamstress for films and theater is really the same as any other project she does. “Whether it’s for an actor, a bride or a friend running for political office – I just love to be in a position to support others and make them look good.

I try very hard to always reflect the individual personality with everything I create.” In addition to wardrobes, she also does event planning and wedding coordination both

locally and regionally – and also with much success.

at home with

Kathy’s work is as evident in the Memphis community as it is in Hollywood movies. She says the banners she designs and sews for both her church and the Memphis VA Medical Center chapel are a great way to utilize her skills while also giving back. “My favorite way to be creative is getting to make those banners. I’m usually given an idea with some boundaries to stay within and then I can run with it. The end result is very rewarding.”

When I ask what is next for Kathy, she simply says just to continue being paid for her creativity and skills in all of the venues in which she works. She most recently completed costume work for Harrison Ford and other actors on the set of the upcoming movie 42 due out in spring 2013, which was primarily filmed in Chattanooga.

Kathy says films and theater work are fun, challenging, and give her a rewarding, creative outlet that also generates a paycheck– but what she does here at home and for family and friends is ultimately what counts the most. Hollywood included.

Actress Jessica Chastain in skirt made by Farris

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music

courtesy of Spalding Entertainment

Music

City Scene

With Chuck Dauphin Kix Brooks Tastes a Different Kind of Success at Arrington

Kix Brooks is known for his creative talent.

In addition to his work as part of the country music duo Brooks & Dunn over the years (and now as a solo artist, with his New To This Town disc hitting stores on September 11) he has also enjoyed success as a partner in Arrington Vineyards, a winery located south of Music City. Just like music, it’s something that is close to his heart.

those expectations, as Arrington Vineyards has flourished. “I think we’ll probably do about 20,000 cases this year,” he says.

Arrington opened for retail business in June of 2007, and Brooks says he has been amazed by the results. “In the five years we’ve been open, it’s been growing by leaps and bounds. It’s one of the most fun things outside of music that I’ve ever done.” Arrington has steadily increased its “I just love wine,” Brooks tells At Home production and demographic and had its wines Tennessee. “I’ve always had a hobby of studying featured in New York City, New Orleans, and as wine and the different kinds, as far as what far west as Oregon. kinds of grapes are grown in different parts of the world over the past 50 years or so. I met The singer admits the clientele at Arrington a couple of friends in Nashville – actually one runs the age gamut. “There’s no demographic,” of my buddies at church was trying to grow he says. “There’s Grandma and Grandpa and different kinds of grapes, and we ended up then there’s college kids. We’re open every meeting a really good winemaker. We decided it day, but on the weekends we’ve got live music might be fun to have a place where people could and it’s free. People come out and bring their learn about wine, drink wine and listen to some picnic baskets, get a bottle of wine and enjoy good music. So we bought some land just south the afternoon.” of Nashville in a town called Arrington. That Crowds are also flocking to see Brooks’ solo turned out to be the name of the winery.” performances. He says that being on his own is Brooks started Arrington with businessman a little different, but he was a solo act before he Fred Mindermann and winemaker Kip got together with Ronnie Dunn in 1991, so it’s Summers in 2004. Originally, the business was completely natural. called Firefly Vineyards due to the millions of fireflies that appear in the vineyards each spring. “I suppose that the first few shows were a However, the name was changed to Arrington, little different, looking over there and thinking nobody is going to sing the next three songs, reflective of the nearby community. but I’ve really settled into it. It is different, but it “We put grapes in about 10 years ago, and feels like it ought to be.” our goal was to get up to about 5,000 cases,” says the singer. Reality has since exceeded www.ArringtonVineyards.com 46 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

arts

MeMphis’ Fountain art Gallery How it maintains its original values, through flexibility and ownership TexT by KrisTen Waddell | phoTos courTesy of founTain arTs gallery

In 1985, a small group of artists from the Memphis area came together to form the Germantown Art League, inhabiting open spaces where they could find them. They moved around between malls and retail shops.

As stores were vacated, opportunities arose for them to negotiate with building owners and move in. When new renters signed leases, the artists would be forced out. After a few years moving around town and struggling to keep up, the artists settled on a space at Carrefour on Kirby Parkway. Original owners recall that the splashing fountain in front of their new space became the muse for the name Fountain Art Gallery. They are now located in the Chickasaw Oaks shopping center on Poplar.

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Fountain Art Gallery showcases works by local artists in mixed media, encaustic, watercolor, collage, fabric, acrylic, oil, jewelry, photography and pottery. Inventory is constantly changing and the gallery is open for events such as merchant nights, mall open houses and private event rentals, as well as during regular business hours. Fountain Art Gallery recently started working through satellite galleries to provide art for local businesses and promote a sampling of their collection.

The gallery is laid out in a manner which gives each artist equal space, and positions are numbered and rotated quarterly. Each artist’s work is displayed throughout the facility, both

upstairs and down and thus there becomes no “prime” real estate.

The members of the Fountain Art Gallery see many benefits to a co-op arrangement that few traditional galleries offer. For example, the artists feel a sense of flexibility. Since there is no dictation of preference or need, each member sees no limitation on their inventory specifications. There is an innate accessibility to collectors since the artists staff the gallery. They will even work on a new piece during open hours on occasion. Members also host their own shows and enter their work into shows and exhibitions. Many have commissioned work around the region.

Artist Michelle East

Additionally, with the responsibility of sharing rent and duties, there is a sense of ownership in the business. Members are able to direct their own art and sales and can provide more reasonably priced art to the consumer; however they must also learn to manage their portfolio and pay their own taxes.

Another perk of being in a co-op is the energy created by working around other artists.

All sales are good for the gallery, so there is little risk of artists becoming territorial. The members get excited watching customers respond to specific pieces and selling their friends’ work. The gallery fosters a synergy that members feed on.

The 19 current members of Fountain Art Gallery share talent, rent and the work it takes to run the business. Structures exist for job distribution within the business and each member is in charge of one aspect that best fits their talents. Nineteen seems to be the magic number that balances out the calendar and store duties. As members rotate out, the group works together to find the right new artist to fit into the mix. Even 25 years later, the artists at Fountain Art Gallery still encourage and motivate one another. And although doors have closed to past locations and artists have come and gone, the members continue to collaborate as one.

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technology

Music, Movies & More...

TEXT BY SCOTT FUELLING PRESIDENT, PHOENIX UNEQUALED HOME ENTERTAINMENT, MEMPHIS

Not too long ago I was meeting with one of my favorite clients. He and his wife are fun, easygoing and really seem to enjoy life to the fullest. He decided he wanted to upgrade his home entertainment systems, so we set up a meeting. The two are now empty nesters and frequently travel. While at home, they like watching sporting events, movies, news and the random broadcast series. They also enjoy listening to music.

let out a slight laugh and simply stated, “I really I waited a few weeks and then reached out to him. He told me he and his wife had fallen in have no idea.” love with Pandora for the simple fact they were This happens frequently in my line of work. discovering new artists every day and finding Some people are as passionate about their all kinds of new music. When I asked about electronics as others are about specific sporting his viewing experiences, he mentioned their teams. My client was completely happy with the discovery of new movies, television shows and performance and quality of his equipment until Web-based video content they never knew existed. the “enthusiasts” got to him.

He came prepared with a long list of brands, model numbers and specific component ideas.

Knowing him as I do, I realized this was a bit out of character for him so I asked what had brought him to these conclusions, or more importantly, why he felt these new solutions would meet their needs.

Prior to installing systems in his home, we listened to a variety of speakers, amplifiers and components. He and his wife provided feedback as to what they liked and really did not care for. We spent the time and worked with them to make the design “theirs.” I knew now he was headed down a path that would not bring him newfound joy with his home entertainment set-up.

After spending a moment gathering his thoughts he said several of his friends told him this was the best gear available and that he should upgrade his systems. Intrigued, I asked if he had ever experienced any of them in person.

“Well, sort of. I heard some of them in my friend’s home,” he replied. “Well, what did you think?” I asked. He said that it was ok.

I decided to regroup and asked him directly, “What specifically do you no longer like about your systems?” He replied, “Well, honestly we are very happy with the sound and since you upgraded all of our televisions and hardware to full HD recently, we really appreciate the quality of the images.”

As we chatted, I brought up and discussed streaming media. I told him about the variety of content available on the Web from sources such as Hulu, Pandora and Rhapsody. I also mentioned various inexpensive media streaming devices, and how these would open a whole new world to him.

I suggested we add the ability to receive these new content delivery options to their existing systems and let him explore what is available. I assured him we could go back and make changes to the actual components in the future if he still wanted to, but I had my suspicions about how this would turn out.We scheduled the additions, Then I asked another question, “Why do completed the installation and showed the you want to go through an extensive upgrade homeowners how to get started enjoying their process, both in terms of time and money?” He brand-new entertainment options.

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When I asked about the upgrades we originally discussed, he simply said he could not imagine enjoying their entertainment systems more than they were now and thanked me for helping him find what he really wanted.

Too many times people get hung up with this brand or that brand, model or component.

Sometimes it has to do with the quest for absolute perfection or the desire for the absolute best of everything. There is nothing wrong with this at all. However, sometimes we are trying to make someone else’s priorities our own, when we should be more interested in what satisfies our specific needs.

The truth is the vast majority of us want to enjoy our precious time at home with family and friends. We want systems that perform well, are easy to use and very reliable. It is about enjoying what you have, with the people who matter most to you, when you have the time to do so.

Till next month…

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P

erhaps it was fate that led a pair of East Tennessee real estate agents to the turn-of-the-century home in Soddy Daisy, just minutes from Chattanooga. The old place had been left for dead after being abused and neglected, and was in foreclosure. This once-admired Depot Street home was in need of a miracle.

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That miracle would finally come in the form of Annette and Tony Clark, a couple who is currently in the process of lovingly transforming the old home to its original luster.

“The local bank called one day and wanted us to help price a home that was in foreclosure,” says Annette. She and Tony, both Realtors, had lived in Soddy Daisy for more than 20 years and understood the housing market there. “We had driven by the Depot Street home a million times and knew it well, from the outside,” says Tony. “But when we entered the home, we were shocked by what we saw.” Orange spray paint on the walls, ripped out wiring, slashed window screens and trash all over the place made it hard to see the house’s underlying beauty. “We were almost sick to our stomachs as we walked through the place,” shares Annette. “And then it happened.

I stood in the entry hall and admired the heavy oak pocket doors and the original stick and ball transom fretwork. I looked at Tony and said, “We’ve got to buy this house!’” Fortunately, Tony felt the same affection for the house and without hesitation, the couple committed to buying the ravaged residence with dreams to give it new life.

Situated on a large level lot in the center of Soddy Daisy, the home was completed in 1917. Built as a private residence for well-known builder William Varner, the white clapboard home was a showplace in its day. Despite serious neglect and even some vandalism, the structure’s core was still intact. “We knew we could restore the place with time, sweat and MONEY, of course,” laughs Annette. The Clarks loved the history, the many architectural details, and the wonderful outdoor living spaces.

As with most renovations, the kitchen was at the top of the list. Working within the footprint of the original kitchen, the couple gutted the space and updated it with ivory glazed cabinets and an unusual “leather textured” granite for the counter tops. A coat of sunny yellow paint enhances the honey and charcoal hues in the granite and makes the space warm and inviting. Oil-rubbed bronze pulls on the cabinets mimic tiny eggs. “I love chickens,” admits Annette, who keeps a small coop in the corner of the yard. “The knobs add just a touch of whimsy to the kitchen and remind me of my feathered friends out back.” Space allowed for the addition of a large island, which is perfect for entertaining. “We love to have friends and family over, and though the kitchen is small by today’s standards, the space flows nicely,” adds Annette.

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Off the kitchen is the couple’s master suite.

Large and sun-drenched, the room features double doors that open to a Juliet balcony overlooking the swimming pool in the back yard. Soft, ivory damask bedding is a striking contrast against the dark mahogany fourposter bed. With walls painted a deep steel blue and a creamy latte-colored carpet on the floor, the room is a calming retreat for this hard-working couple. “It’s the only room in the house that has carpet,” says Annette. “My feet thank me every morning!”

custom-made cabinets and drawers on one wall, the space doubles as a dressing room. The whole room sparkles under the illumination of a lead crystal chandelier. “We were lucky that the master bedroom and bath had been added to the home in the late 90’s,” shares Tony. “All we really had to do was personalize the space to our liking.”

Other parts of the house would prove more challenging. With copper pipes and wiring pilfered from the house, the couple invested thousands of dollars in re-wiring and replumbing. The homeowners say they are thankful vandals did not take some of the irreplaceable features of the home. “Things like the copper face-plated door knobs and the old-timey copper doorbell are what make this house unique,” they add.

The master bath features a ceramic tile that simulates real slate. The rich brown and bluegray tiled floor includes an inset pattern that incorporates shimmery, iridescent glass tiles.

For the counters, the Solarius granite used in the kitchen is repeated. The bathroom renovations, including heated flooring and a walk-in shower featuring multiple water jets, In homage to the home’s builder, the Clarks create a spa-like experience. With a bank of plan to create a sitting room dedicated to the

history of the house. A long-time neighbor has offered to share photos from the home’s past and the couple has begun collecting periodappropriate antiques for the room. Though they have completed several major renovation projects in just a few months, their stamina and enthusiasm aren’t waning. “It’s a work in progress,” says Annette. “But it is definitely a labor of love.”

Perhaps it is a bit ironic that the couple moved into the Depot Street house on Easter weekend. Indeed, the old home has been resurrected from ruin by the Clarks. It now stands as a shining example of the power of love — love of this old home, the community and each other.

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design

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design

A BELLE MEADE COURTYARD PERFECTED TEXT BY JANNA FITE HERBISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL LEFEVOR

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design

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W

hen Nashville interior designer Kathy Fitzpatrick was asked by a client to decorate a beautiful indoor/outdoor courtyard in the city’s upscale Belle Meade neighborhood, she turned to the same European style that has made her local store, Marymont Plantation Antiques & Interiors, a success for nearly 30 years.

“I enjoy traveling to France and Italy at least once a year on buying trips and 95 percent of what I have in the store and what I use for clients is European,” she says.

For this particular project, she chose pieces that ranged from the 19th century to the 1940’s, including Italian painted candlestick lamps and a French daybed with metal swan motif legs and silk damask in neoclassic style. Fitzpatrick adds an interesting bit of history associated with that particular daybed: it is the exact same piece that actress Natalie Wood once had in her Hollywood home.

“I believe in using the most comfortable and atmospheric décor and products possible when helping to design a space,” says Fitzpatrick. “Otherwise, it is a miss for both your client and the space itself.”

The courtyard was furnished overall to have an indoor look – it is almost, but not quite enclosed. The space features French iron chairs from the 1940’s with vintage fabric and handmade pots and urns. One additional highlight – a 19th-century metal folding chaise with Pierre Deux navy toile pillows.

Other decorative pieces include Italian gilt lanterns on the walls, an early 19th-century French Trumeau mirror and buffet, and Deauville dining chairs. The fountain is custom iron and stone Fitzpatrick purchased from Renaissance Tile in Nashville, and the travertine flooring is keyed with black marble inlay.

Fitzpatrick also paid close attention to the courtyard’s foliage, placing Australian tree ferns in large white French pots and blue and white hydrangeas in seashell urns along with peace lilies next to an Italian vine.

“It is very important to convey atmosphere, comfort and warmth in any space you design,” says Fitzpatrick. “While my client and I worked hard and it was a collaborative effort, in the end, you feel like you are transported to France or Italy — in the middle of Belle Meade.”

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styleMARKETPLACE

Best Courtyard Decor Accentuate your outdoor space this season

Vine Border Edge Home Decorators Collection, $17 www.homedecorators.com

Embossed Garden Stool Pier 1 Imports, $120 www.pier1.com

Scroll Finial Arbor without Gate Home Decorators Collection, $89 www.homedecorators.com

Swingasan Chair in Mocha Pier 1 Imports, $280 www.pier1.com

Andalusia Wall Fountain Restoration Hardware, $2,795 www.restorationhardware.com

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Cambridge Sconce Restoration Hardware, $279 - $339 www.restorationhardware.com

Tabletop Greenhouse Pier 1 Imports, $129 www.pier1.com

Gothic Lantern Light Pier 1 Imports, $299 www.pier1.com

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garden

Popular Plants

AND THE HISTORY BEHIND THEM

TEXT BY ANDY PULTE

It is hard to dispute the fact that plants have played a starring role in human history. From the houses we live in to the clothing we wear to the food we eat, plants are vital to our survival. When we look at a potato in the form of a French fry we don’t often pause to consider what impact this humble edible tuber has had on civilization.

Here is your chance to take an intermission to remember how important plants can be in our everyday lives.

This by no means is an exhaustive list – every plant has contributed. In no particular order, here are a few concise sentences on some of the most notable plants and a little about our human connection to them.

72 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

garden

The Potato: Solanum tuberosum

enhanced the demand for slaves, who by the Silk Road from China through the Middle East 1850s accounted for about 50 percent of the and to Europe helped lay the foundations for Originally from Latin America, the potato is population in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi the modern world. now grown throughout the world. Some time and Louisiana.

Tea Plant: Camellia sinensis in the 1500s this staple crop of the Incas moved Coffee: Coffea spp. to Ireland. By the mid 1800s Ireland’s poor ate Camellia sinensis’ leaves and leaf buds are almost nothing but potatoes. In the spring of 1845 the weather was excellent and the Irish A plant genus filled with small trees or shrubs used to produce Chinese tea. This plant and potato crop was thriving. However, in July the native to tropical Asia and Africa valued for the the tea it creates had a major impact on the weather turned and by August much of the seed inside its berry. The caffeine in the beans relationship between China and Europe. The potato crop was black and slimy. Poor weather is actually a natural toxic defense mechanism ships that imported tea west to Europeans, who had given rise to Phytophtora root-rot and the against browsing herbivores. After crude oil, needed to boil their water to kill bacteria and coffee is the second most traded commodity were addicted to the caffeine in the tea, often Irish Potato Famine. returned with opium for the Chinese. This led on the planet. to the Opium War of 1840 and had a major Black pepper: Piper nigrum impact on both cultures.

Pineapple: Ananas comosus Native to Southeast Asiam, this perennial vine is one of the most traded spices in the world. Black pepper (and other spices) had a significant part in the course of world history, as desire for it prompted exploration of major worldwide sea routes.

Of course the pineapple plant is cultivated for its fruit. This is the only common food produced by a plant in the plant family Bromeliaceae. In 1493 Christopher Columbus became the first European to see this fruit, which he called piña De Indes, or “pine of the Indians.” Pineapples, which are easily Cotton: Gossypium spp. grown from leaf cuttings, are credited as one of the primary reasons greenhouses became so A member of the hibiscus family, the cotton popular during the Victorian era. plant produces a natural fiber used in cloth.

Certainly used by humans for over 5,000 Common White Mulberry: Morus years, cotton became a highly important crop alba before the American Civil War (1861-1865).

By the 1830s the southern United States was Mulberry is native to China. Silkworms that producing more cotton than all other countries spin the cocoons which produce silk eat its combined. The demand for cotton greatly leaves. Trade of silk and other wares along the

Cinchona Tree: Cinchona pubescens

During portions of the 17th century, malaria affected vast parts of the world, including Rome and London. Explorers exported malaria around the world, and early cures like “bleeding” were not pleasant. Native from South America north to Costa Rica, cinchona tree has been cultivated for use in the production of quinine, a medicine used to treat malaria. This medicine is obtained from the root and bark of the tree and was unknown until the 1630s. An effective treatment for malaria opened up travel and trade for those fearful of going where the disease was known to exist.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 73

garden

IN BLOOM: Plant of the Month: Lantana TEXT BY BETH WILLIS

74 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

Gardeners are always seeking plants that provide a long-lasting show in the garden while requiring little care and maintenance.

Lantana fulfills both those goals and is attractive to butterflies as well.

Lantana camara, commonly known as lantana or shrub verbena, is native to Central and South America but has naturalized in much of the Southeastern United States.

The species can grow to six feet tall and eight feet wide, with heavily textured dark green foliage. Abundant one- to two-inch clusters of blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink and even purple cover the plant throughout the entire summer.

Lantana prefers full sun sites and thrives in heat and humidity, but performs as a troublefree annual in colder zones, where it will bloom heavily throughout the summer until frost. Once established, it is drought tolerant.

Although the species will self-seed, most of the ornamental cultivars do not breed true from seed, and so are propagated through cuttings.

Larger cultivars of lantana make a great backdrop for smaller plants when placed in the rear of landscape beds, while smaller groundcover varieties are best placed in the front of beds. Either type performs well in containers. They are also very attractive to butterflies. Lantana can be trained to adapt when grown in frost-free zones or when brought into a greenhouse or garage for the winter. It is not susceptible to any significant pest or disease problems, and it has no major maintenance issues. Once planted and established, it is remarkably carefree in the garden.

Although the species can be aggressive in zones where it is not killed by frost (to the point of being considered a noxious weed in many parts of the world), numerous cultivars are available that are smaller and better behaved. Hybrids of Lantana camara and Lantana montevidensis, a trailing type of lantana, are also available on the retail market, so gardeners have a wide range of sizes, habits and bloom colors from which to choose.

Beth Willis is the trials coordinator for the UT Gardens, Knoxville. The University of Tennessee Gardens located in Knoxville and Jackson are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. Their mission is to foster appreciation, education and stewardship of plants through garden displays, collections, educational programs and research trials. The gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public. See utgardens.tennessee.edu and westtennessee.tennessee.edu/ornamentals for more information.

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entertaining

“Throw Down”

at The Golden Era Plantation EXCERPT BY LIBBY MURPHY, AUTHOR OF A TENNESSEE WALTZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA GOLDEN

82 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

S

ince 1965, William Lee Golden has been the distinctive baritone singer for the Oak Ridge Boys; that makes him one of the most recognized personalities in country and gospel music.

He has been honored by the Alabama Music Hall of Fame with the Lifetime Achievement Award and was named Entertainer of the Year by the Cherokee Indian Association, an organization of 15 American tribes.

This renowned “mountain man” is an accomplished painter whose work has been exhibited in numerous galleries, museums and wineries. The William Lee Golden Art Exhibition at the Tennessee State Museum has garnered much acclaim since its unveiling in the summer of 2010.

Music keeps Golden on the road with the Oak Ridge Boys more than 150 days a year, so he always makes a point to get together with friends a few times a year with what he and his wife Brenda call a “Throw Down.”

They ready their best china, silver and crystal and invite a diverse group of friends to their historic home, Golden Era Plantation, for food, fellowship and fun. Without fail, the evening ends with family and guests around the piano.

Golden Era Plantation, home to Golden, his wife Brenda, and youngest son Solomon, is recognized as the oldest brick home in Sumner County. The Federal-style structure in Hendersonville was built in 1786 on a military outpost by Revolutionary War Captain James Franklin, who was awarded a land grant to the property after the war.

William Lee has long been known as a gracious host, and Brenda is just as charming a hostess and cook who also understands how to throw a grand dinner party. Guests say her impeccably set table is always a beautiful and welcoming repose. Perhaps the real treasures at the Golden Era Plantation are the rich friendships shared at these celebrated “Throw Downs.”

Native Jacksonian and At Home Tennessee contributor Libby Murphy will publish her upcoming book, A Tennessee Waltz, in 2013. The book captures Southern traditions, keepsake recipes and memorable events – complete with stories from some of Tennessee’s most well-known characters and residents. Some of those featured include First Lady of Tennessee Crissy Haslam, legendary singer Charlie Daniels, actors George Hamilton, Kathy Bates, and David Keith, singer/author Stella Parton, Congressman John Tanner and Master Chef Jose Gutierrez.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 83

entertaining

Golden and friends

Golden displaying his art work for former First Lady Barbara Bush

84 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

(Recipes by Brenda Golden)

Scallop Lagniappe A favorite at many of the Goldens’ “Throw Downs”

Ingredients: 24 scallops 1/2 pound lump crabmeat 1/4 cup Parmesan/Romano cheese blend, grated 1/2 stick butter 3/4 cup chopped onions 1/8 cup chopped green bell pepper 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers 1/4 cup green onions

Topping: 1/4 cup Parmesan/Romano cheese blend Directions: Sauté onions (not the green onions), bell pepper and garlic until the onions are clear.

Add red and white pepper as well as the heavy cream and heat until the mixture bubbles. Add 1/4 cup cheese blend. Fold crackers and green onions into the mixture, remove from heat and let cool.

Spray individual dishes or one large casserole dish with nonstick spray and line the bottom with scallops. Cover the scallops with lump crabmeat and spread cracker mixture over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees.

Cornbread Salad Ingredients : 1 package white cornbread mix 1 package Mexican cornbread mix 1 cup chopped bell pepper 1 cup chopped celery 1 can whole corn, drained 3 tomatoes, chopped 1 cup grated mild cheddar cheese 1 pint mayonnaise 3 boiled eggs, chopped

Directions: Mix and bake both cornbread mixes as directed on the package the night before. The next day cut the cornbread in bite-size pieces.

Add other ingredients and chill.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 85

cuisine

owner Jim Baker “World Famous Bananas Foster”

86 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

special

Where New Orleans meets Memphis

Owen Brennan’s: Classic Cajun and Creole in the Bluff City TEXT BY JANNA FITE HERBISON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF OWEN BRENNAN’S

SHRIMP AND GRITS (recipe courtesy of Executive Chef Jody Moyt) • 6 jumbo shrimp, shells removed with tail left on • 2 ounces julienned Tasso ham • 2 ounces quartered and sliced andouille sausage • 1 smashed garlic clove • ¼ cup sliced scallions • ½ cup sliced shiitake mushrooms • 2 fluid ounces clarified butter • 1 cup shrimp stock • 1 tablespoon butter • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning • Salt and pepper to taste Heat a sauté pan with the clarified butter until smoking. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning, brown briefly without burning. Add sausage, ham, mushrooms, and garlic. Sauté for one minute and deglaze with shrimp stock. Reduce stock for two minutes, to about a 1/3 cup. Add the butter, remove from heat, and stir butter into sauce. Add the scallions. Place a scoop of grits in a bowl, arrange shrimp around the bowl, and pour sauce on top.

SMOKED CHEDDAR GRITS • 1 cup stone-ground grits • ½ cup diced onion • 1 smashed garlic clove • 1 quart chicken stock • ½ cup heavy cream • 1 cup shredded smoked cheddar cheese • 2 fluid ounces clarified butter • Salt and pepper to taste In a heavy bottomed pot sauté onions and garlic in clarified butter, do not brown. Add chicken stock and bring to a boil. Add grits and reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently and add more stock if needed until grits are soft.

Stir in cream and cheese. Cook five more minutes and allow grits to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.

When Mardi Gras rolls around next February, Owen Brennan’s restaurant in East Memphis will be more than 23 years old, a milestone that has special significance for owner Jim Baker, who has been with the restaurant since its inception. He has been the sole owner since 2004, and recently reflected on what in particular makes Owen Brennan’s stand out from other Memphis eateries.

Oysters Bienville, Redfish Perez, Pasta Jambalaya, Shrimp & Grits (recipe this page), Chargrilled Salmon with crawfish buerre blanc, and Owen Brennan’s “World Famous Bananas Foster.” Aside from brunch and New Orleans-style cuisine, however, guests can also enjoy traditional dinner fare, such as the Filet Mignon with a port wine reduction, Blackberry BBQ Pork Chop, and Beef Tournedos with spinach topping.

“We serve unique, New Orleans style recipes, many of which are straight from the famous Brennan’s kitchen in New Orleans,” says Baker. “Our motto is ‘Step out of Memphis and into New Orleans,’ and that’s exactly what you get here: a true mix of Cajun and Creole with heavy French influence. Our cuisine has not changed in the 23 years we have been in business.”

The restaurant holds private parties and events, as well, such as business lunches, receptions and holiday soirees. The holiday parties include a choice of pre-selected menus, which Moyt says can easily be tailored based on individual budgets.

Fall at Owen Brennan’s is popular with guests who like to enjoy outdoor seating, and the adjacent patio can accommodate up to 50 people. September also means $25 three-course meals every Friday and Saturday, including choice of salad, entree and dessert. “Owen Brennan’s is in the process of expanding our bar and patio area, and we are considering live music outside,” says Baker. “We are also interested in potentially expanding into Nashville, Little Rock and Birmingham in the near future.”

Native Memphian and Executive Chef Jody Moyt has been with Owen Brennan’s for just over three years, and says he is always looking for ways to make the cuisine more interesting, while also supporting local vendors. “We focus on high quality and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, along with recipes made from scratch,” says Moyt. He adds that nearly everything served at the restaurant is made completely in-house, including homemade desserts and meats cured on site. “I cure When asked what he believes makes a and smoke all of our salmon for service restaurant truly successful, Baker says it’s and brunch, as well as bacon and Canadian all about having a passion for only the freshest and best food, along with a good bacon for the Eggs Benedict.” atmosphere all around. “Owen Brennan’s Brennan’s has long been a Sunday brunch is a family-owned restaurant that offers favorite in Memphis, and Moyt has built consistent and unique food with great on that classic fare, adding even more service. We are blessed to have many pastries and baked goods to go along with employees that have been working with us the made-to-order omelettes. The Creole for more than 15 years.”

Bloody Mary is a popular brunch drink, and then there’s Owen Brennan’s signature So whether you live in Memphis or are live jazz music, which adds to the Big Easy just visiting, the next time you get that atmosphere. The buffet serves upwards of craving for authentic New Orleans cuisine, you don’t have to go far.

200 people on any given Sunday.

Some of the restaurant’s overall fan favorites include the Crawfish Etoufee,

www.brennansmemphis.com September 2012 • athometn.com | 87

Photo by Bagwell Macy PR

chef ’s corner

Breaking

Bread

TEXT BY CHARLES PHILLIPS EXECUTIVE CHEF OF 1808 GRILLE AT HUTTON HOTEL, NASHVILLE

I had a few days of vacation to use this month and decided to stick close to home. We live in Nashville and had the chance to listen to some great music and enjoy some food from around town. One of the unexpected pure pleasures was that I decided to bake bread. This is something I do not get to do at 1808 Grille very often. My wife had purchased a bread book by the co-owner of Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, who is a modernday “bread whisperer.” I was inspired to adapt a technique from the book (see recipe below).

trying the recipe until my wife posted a picture on her Facebook page and everyone, all of a sudden, just happened to be in the neighborhood and wanted to stop over. Seriously, when this bread comes out of the oven the great aroma will fill the house. I even broke out the butter and spread it on thick. If you know me you know I normally choose olive oil or a healthier option, but I got “crazy” and you will, too. Baking the bread in a cast-iron Dutch Oven will give it an amazing crusty exterior that otherwise would not be obtainable in a home oven.

Being home and putting the brakes on my busy schedule allowed me to get wrapped up in Give this a try — it is not difficult. this ancient, quieting and fulfilling process. I was Eat Well & Be Well concerned that you would not get excited about CP

HOMEMADE BREAD AT ITS BEST

• 2 ½ cups bread flour • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour • 1 ½ tsp. salt • 2 tsp. white balsamic vinegar • 2 ¼ tsp. active yeast (1 packet of yeast usually) • 1 2/3 cup water, warm (about 107 degrees) • 1 tsp. sugar METHOD 1. In a food processor pulse flour, salt and vinegar. You can mix by hand if you do not have a processor. (Our food processor is a 14cup size and worked great for this size batch.)

2. Pour yeast in a small bowl and add 1/3 cup warm water and 1 tsp. sugar. Allow to blossom until foamy, about 10 minutes. Must

be frothy/foamy or try again with new yeast.

3. Add yeast mixture to flour and pulse, add 1 1/3 cups warm water and pulse until dough pulls away from sides of bowl. Do not overwork the dough here.

4. Cover the opening with a towel and allow to rise about 2 hours in a warm space. Dough should be almost doubled in size.

5. About 1 hour and 45 minutes into the rising process preheat the oven to 500 degrees. If you are using a cast-iron Dutch oven now is the time to place it in the oven.

If not, preheat the oven to 450 degrees and bake for 40 minutes but check it after 20, you may need to spin or move it around for even cooking.

6. Flip the dough out onto a floured surface and tuck all sides under until it is in a neat ball. “Punch” it down. (Gently press it down into a rectangle.) Fold the outside in and then fold opposite sides in as well. Again tuck all sides under to form that neat ball.

7. Place in a bowl (approximately 9” in diameter) which has been brushed with olive oil, and allow to proof again about 1 hour in a warm place.

8. Be careful — with a good oven mitt or thick, dry kitchen towel pull the bottom part of the Dutch oven out, spray it with cooking and gently place the dough in it.

9. Reduce the heat to 450 degrees. Place the lid on top and bake for 20 minutes 10. After 20 minutes remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Cool on a rack to allow air to flow around it.

September 2012 • athometn.com | 89

finance

There’s LighT in The TunneL An Up-To-Date Look At The Housing Market

by STeve brown, GenerAL MAnAGer of Crye-Leike, reALTorS

2012 provides a positive story for real estate in Tennessee overall, and in most quarters of the country. Crye-Leike has seen an increase in sales with the Memphis region showing a 19.6% increase in sales volume (over $566 million); Nashville an 18.6% increase ($396.8 million); Chattanooga a 26.9% increase ($191.5 million) and the East Tennessee region with an 89.5% increase.

There are several reasons for this trend to continue, barring a “double dip” recession.

Although “short sales” (sales for less than debt owed on mortgages) and foreclosures continue to comprise 25-33 percent of sales statewide and nationally, that percentage is decreasing.

When “distress sales” like these decrease, the average price increases, which encourages sellers to list and sales to increase.

With the “affordability index” (lower average price; very low interest rates and relatively stable income) at record highs, it’s becoming cheaper to buy than rent. Existing and new home inventory is at or below normal (nationally it’s at a five year low), meaning better prices for those sellers in the market. In some sub markets there is actually a shortage of inventory and we are beginning to see multiple offers in them.

In addition, population growth in the US is about three million annually. Approximately 500,000 residences literally burn down or are 90 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

destroyed annually and rents have been rising for the past five years. These facts, taken as a whole, indicate that we may be reaching a tipping point.

There are other indicators that we may truly have “hit bottom” and are at last at the beginning of a slow but steady improvement in the housing industry. All-cash sales are at a record high 30-35 percent of all sales nationally.

International buyers from South and Central America and as far away as Australia are steadily buying up vacant, sometimes deteriorating, properties and rehabbing them for resale or rental purposes. With reduced inventories, some buyers are losing properties that they like because those properties are selling before they are ready to commit.

Realistically, if you were a buyer in 20052006 and you had to sell today, is it likely you’ll have a gain? In a word–no. But let’s put this in perspective. Nationally, from 1981-2011, despite the housing “bust” years of 2007-2011, home values have more than tripled. It is not surprising that in February of 2012, Warren Buffett commented, “If I had a way, I’d buy a couple hundred thousand single family homes…”

So if you’ve been sitting on the fence, it might be time to consult a real estate professional about home values in your area.

With interest rates at historic lows, you can

buy a lot more house now than when the rates rise in the future.

If there’s one thing every homeowner or investor should realize when they see any national media or real estate “expert” reporting “average prices are expected to fall…” it’s that foreclosures and short sales skew the overall average price down. However, you must drill down to the sub market (by zip code, MLS area or neighborhood) to find the real truth.

Example: 11 of Memphis’ 34 ZIP codes had higher average sales prices in 2011 vs. 2010.

Anyone see that in the paper? As Warren Buffett implied, it is a good time to be in the market. n Steve Brown is General Manager of Crye-Leike, Realtors - Corporate Office in Memphis, TN. He has over 30 years in the real estate industry. www.crye-leike.com

SUN

MON

TUES

WED

September

2 Boomsday Festival Volunteer Landing, Knoxville 865.523.7263 www.boomsday.org

3

4

Free Labor Day Concert Historic Jonesborough 423.753.1010 www.historicjonesborough.com

Sept. 1-8 Tennessee Soybean Festival City of Martin 731.588.2507 www.tnsoybeanfestival.org

5

Sept. 1-8 White County Agricultural Fair White County Fairgrounds, Sparta 931.836.3552

THUR

6

www.sparta-chamber.net

9 36th Annual Central Gardens Home Tour Memphis 901.276.5527 www.centralgardens.org

10

Sept. 10-Oct. 30 “Just Guitars, Something Musical in Acrylics” Ravine Restaurant, Oxford 662.243.4555 Nature Festival Bowie Nature Park, Fairview 615.799.9290

11

12

Great Island Festival Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, Vonore 423.884.6246 www.sequoyahmuseum.org

17

Sept. 13-15 Darryl Worley’s Tennessee River Run Downtown Savannah & Hardin County 886.484.3877 www.darrylworley.com

www.fairviewchamber.org

16

13

18

19

Sept. 7-16 Tennessee Valley Fair Chilhowee Park, Knoxville

20 Meet the Artist Reception at Ravine Oxford, MS 662.243.4555

www.tnvalleyfair.org

23 Billy Elliot the Musical The Orpheum Theatre, Memphis

901.525.3000 www.orpheum-memphis.com

24

25

26

27

Mr. Dickens is Coming The Inn at Christmas Place, Pigeon Forge 888.465.9644

Gatlinburg’s Taste of Autumn Gatlinburg Convention Center 800.568.4748

www.innatchristmasplace.com

www.gatlinburg.com

30

Sept. 28-30 Reelfoot Arts & Crafts Festival Reelfoot Lake, Tiptonville 731.885.7295 www.reelfootartsandcrafts.com

92 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

To submit an event to be included in At Home Tennessee Happenings, please email editorial@athometn.com

FRI

happenings

SAT 1 Loretta Lynn’s Concert at the Ranch Hurricane Mills 931.296.7700 www.lorettalynnranch.net

7

8

Main Street’s Friday Night Live Concert Public Square, Murfreesboro 615.895.1887 www.downtownmurfreesboro.com

14

Sept. 8-9 Grand Opening Bobby Lanier Farm Park Germantown

2

Boomsday Festival

www.germantown-tn.gov/ farmpark

15

The Rocky Horror Picture Show The Orpheum Theatre, Memphis

901.525.3000

Harvest Festival on the Square Waynesboro Town Square 931.722.3575 www.waynecountychamber.org

www.orpheum-memphis.com

21

Bluegrass at the Amphitheatre Downtown Sparta Liberty Square 931.836.3552 www.sparta-chamber.net

Sept. 21-23 Eye Full of Paris Downtown Paris 731.642.9271 www.visitdowntownparis.com

22

Sept. 20-22 Humphreys County Fair H.C. Fair Grounds, Waverly 931.296.3442 Sept. 22-23 Battle of Collierville Reenactment Schilling Farms, Collierville www.colliervillebattle.org

28

29

Sept. 28-29 Southernn Fried Festival Downtown Columbia Courthouse Square 931.381.7176

6th Dandridge Scots-Irish Festival Downtown Dandridge 865.397.7420

11

Great Island Festival

28-29

Southern Fried Festival

www.scots-irish.org

www.southernfriedfest.com

September 2012 • athometn.com | 93

roadtrip

Smoky Mountain Homecoming

Adventure Forest Fun Park

Smoky Mountain Homecoming

Adventure Forest Fun Park

FALLFromFUN IN THE SMOKIES an annual arts festival to a new adventure park, a visit to the Smoky Mountains is worth the trip this season TEXT BY JEssE MuchMorE and Janna FiTE hErBison

SMOKY MOUNTAIN HOMECOMING FESTIVAL The Smoky Mountain Homecoming October 6th and 7th, hosted by the Robert A. Tino Gallery in Sevierville, Tennessee, is an annual festival celebrating the art, cuisine, and culture of the Appalachian region. Robert Tino is a Tennessee painter that has used the John Denton Home on Sunset Farm, an official selection of the National Register of Historic Homes, to showcase his work since 1991, and the festival has been a seasonal tradition since 1992. T Robert’s paintings often illustrate the beautiful scenic landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains and the wildlife that inhabits them.

Robert and his wife, Mary John, began the Smoky Mountain Homecoming as a way to relive the bygone days of the Music and Arts Festival once held in Sevier County. “The success of this festival is due to the fact that it is a community-wide projecttsays Mary Jo.

The event boasts a range of activities for those of all ages from pony rides, games, instructional art classes, and a petting zoo for the kids, to basket weaving, dulcimer making, and lace tatting for adults. For those interested in local history, there is an old fashioned farmer’s market, antique shows, and local artisans eager to share their knowledge of the traditional Appalachian ways.

Attendees are also graced with authentic bluegrass/gospel music from Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier, as well as the South of the River Boys.

Cuisine includes local favorite Buddy’s BarB-Q, along with common festival staples such as funnel cakes and kettle corn.

In what has now become a Smoky Mountain Homecoming custom, Robert will be also be debuting his much-anticipated fall print release. Admission is free and all proceeds go to the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.

alternative for kids and family entertainment this season. The “Adventure Forest” Fun-park at Wilderness at the Smokies resort opened this past spring and features an indoor “dry” park complete with a three-story ropes course, a multi-level enclosed laser tag arena, mini bowling and more than 100 arcade games.

“If it were a stand-alone attraction, it would be an amazing attraction on its own to the local tourism market,” says Steve Cruz, General Manager of Wilderness at the Smokies. “But when combined with all the current offerings at the resort, it will truly be a premier Smoky Mountains destination.”

In addition to the “Lazer Maze,” the Fun-park also features a 25-foot tall spring ride, 23-foot tall climbing wall, special birthday rooms and additional activities that don’t involve water, all-indoor and open throughout the year.

Wilderness at the Smokies is located near I-40 “This small, intimate festival draws in the foothills of the Smokies, and is one of the ADVENTURE FOREST participants from different states and even area’s only year-round vacation destinations.

FUN-PARK foreign countries, mainly because of its unique qualities and authenticity to the region,” adds As the last of the summer waterparks close Robert Tino. after Labor Day, one park in Sevierville is a great 94 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

MARKETPLACE

September 2012 • athometn.com | 95

sources 30 | Best of: Special thanks to the Tennessee Dept. of Tourism and the Tennessee Dept. of Economic and Community Development

44 | At Home With: The Help screen shots/publicity stills — DreamWorks Studios Head shot — Nicolette Overton

52 | Home Feature: Photography — Ben Finch, www.finchphoto.com

62 | Design: Photography — Bill LaFevor Interior Designer — Kathy Fitzpatrick, www.marymontplantation.net

82 | Entertaining: Photographer — Brenda Golden Excerpt from A Tennessee Waltz by Libby Murphy September 2012 • athometn.com | 97

books

Farmhouse Style TEXT BY SHANA RALEY-LUSK

In a world where technology is king and life moves at the speed of light, the notion of a farmhouse can feel a bit like an oasis for many of us. Sure, “farmhouse” connotes many things; something different for everyone, perhaps. For some, the thought of living in a farmhouse signifies comfort and simplicity; the idea of slowing down and settling in. Certainly, the appeal of the farmhouse is easy to see: relief from the chaos that accompanies modern conveniences.

In her new book Perfect English Farmhouse, Ros Byam Shaw explores the possibilities that the farmhouse has to offer. The book is organized into chapters, each representing a 98 | At Home Tennessee • September 2012

particular style. The first chapter, for example, is entitled “Organic Farmhouse” and reflects a rustic and earthy style. Homes featured within this section reflect a light, pared-down design aesthetic, some reminiscent of a time long past and some with a modern edge. Deeper into the volume, chapter five explores the “Funky Farmhouse.” These structures present readers with perhaps the most contemporary farmhouse style of all. Distinctive and fresh, they are the ultimate juxtaposition of old and new. The rich patina of old beams and hardwood floors contrasts beautifully with the sleek shine of current trends and unique furnishings.

Additional styles include “Traditional,” “Farm Fresh” and “No Frills.” Key decorative elements

of each style are highlighted, making the book a convenient design guide for readers.

Perfect English Farmhouse features 350 gorgeous color photographs that guide readers through each home and its story.

A former features editor for The World of Interiors magazine, Shaw has a writing style is truly engaging. That style, coupled with the outstanding photography, makes the book a must-have decorating guide for anyone interested in refreshing the style of an older home, farmhouse or otherwise. (Ryland Peters & Small/ $40.00)

entertaining