Big Wig Ball Live at the Garden Promise Ball
618 Justana Dr.
100 E. Parkway Ave. N. Memphis, TN 38104
Collierville, TN 38017
Capture the essence of Midtown Memphis in this beautifully restored European Chateau near historic Overton Park. Inside the gates of this majestic 1.25 acre property is the primary residence along with a separate 2-story guest home and detached 4 car garage. Hardwood floors, detailed millwork, magnificent staircase and original stained-glass windows greet you upon entering the foyer of this turn of the century home. 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 1 half bath in the main home. Updated kitchen and bathrooms are among many of the modern luxuries you will enjoy. Fireplaces in the dining room, living room, billiard/play room and master suite. The breakfast room and solarium overlook a private backyard oasis in the city complete with a heated gunite pool and bath. The guest house features a full size kitchen, den, laundry, 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Renovations include new mechanical systems and back-up generator. Video tour of this home at https://youtu.be/71MQuZ0K9SU
New Construction by Artisan Custom Homes. Collierville Reserve. No City Taxes. 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. Latest colors and styles in prestigious Spring Creek Ranch. Gourmet kitchen that's perfect for entertaining. Luxury master bath with free standing soaker tub. Neighborhood amenities feature an Olympic style Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, Lake, Trails and Golf. Builder/Agent.
$512,000
$975,000
Jason Gaia
Marty Smith
jason@jasongaiateam.com
msmith@collins-maury.com
901.338.6677
901.674.1031
515 Big Bell Loop
8978 Jenna Rd.
Eads, TN 38028
Germantown, TN 38138
You will be wowed when you drive into the gate of this dream estate! Almost 15 manicured acres with stunning, fully renovated 4 bedroom 5 bath main house with screened in porch overlooking separate guest quarters, beautiful pool, stocked pond, tennis court, play court, outdoor grilling/patio area and 9 stall barn. Check out YouTube video and BigBellEstate.com
TENNIS ANYONE? Enjoy the summer in your own "private country club" backyard featuring a lighted tennis court, gunite pool, pool house, and beautiful grounds situated on 1.8 acres. This perfect home features a main living level, upstairs bedrooms, downstairs living area and theater room with a door to the outside making it useful for an in-law suite.
$995,000
$790,000
Bill Maury
Tim O’Hare
Cathy Banks
maury@collins-maury.com
ohare@collins-maury.com
banks@collins-maury.com
901.751.4311
901.609.5038
901.606.2374
Collins-Maury.com
Considering a career in real estate? Visit SellRealEstateWithUs.com
5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
3276 Goodman Rd. Southaven,MS 38672 662.548.2000
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
Contents August 2017
Features
From the Editor • 9 Signature Memphis • 10 Harold Byrd A true blue mover and shaker
StreetSeen • 16 Megan Banaszek Promoting creative potential
StreetSeen • 18 Brian Maness The craft of creating art glass
Events
RSVPhillippi • 49 Unhappy Campers Dennis Phillippi shares his childhood memories of camping
Deveney Perry and Leslie Smith
Memphis Audrey Lucas Moments • 12, 14, 28, 30, 34, 42, Big Wig Ball • 20 A night of hair-raising fun 44, 45 & 46
Steve Redden and Sandy Briggs
Live at the Garden • 32 Celebrating summer under the stars
Cover Photo
Courtney and Hal Stansbury at Promise Ball Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo Beale Street Elvis Statue Photo by Krista Geyer
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Harper Murrah and Cheyanne Hall
Promise Ball • 36 A mask and black tie event
Sadia Martin and Sayyida Abdus-Salaam
After Hours • 47
The latest business happenings
Volume XXII • Number VIII
August 2017 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Dennis Phillippi Rebekah Yearout Art Director Krista Geyer Photographers Don Perry Steve Roberts Rebekah Yearout Account Executive Chris Pugh RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to:
Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact:
Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax: (901) 276-7785 publisher@rsvpmagazine.com Visit us online at:
www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event:
Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2017 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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RSVP Staff
Chris Pugh
Account Executive Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.
Krista Geyer Art Director
Krista has spent most her entire life in the Mid-South area. She moved home after earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University and is thrilled to be able to work on something as “Memphis” as RSVP Magazine. When not working you can probably find Krista at Shelby Farms with her husband and her dogs or riding her horses.
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ALLEN EDMONDS AMERICAN THREADS ANN TAYLOR ANTHROPOLOGIE APPLE STORE AT&T BANANA REPUBLIC
BACK TO
style
BRIGHTON BROOKS BROTHERS CHICO’S FRANCESCA’S FREE PEOPLE GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA GYMBOREE INDIGO J.CREW J. JILL JANIE AND JACK KENDRA SCOTT LILY RAIN LOFT LUCKY BRAND JEANS MADEWELL MICHAEL KORS ORIGINS PAPER SOURCE SEE EYEWEAR SEPHORA SLEEP NUMBER SOFT SURROUNDINGS SOMA SOUTHERN AVENUE COMPANY STONEY RIVER SUR LA TABLE TALBOTS VERA BRADLEY VICTORIA’S SECRET VOM FASS WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET
Coming Soon JOS. A. BANK LULULEMON
Poplar & West Farmington Germantown 901.753.4484 shopsofsaddlecreek.com
August
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• Letter From the Editor
or many of us, the start of a new school year signals the change of the seasons from summer to fall. Parents and grandparents often try to squeeze in one more family vacation while schedules are free of school routines. But this time of year is also prime time for taking inventory and getting organized. Before weekends are filled with ballgames ranging from Pee Wee leagues to college football, consider using the time to get “your house in order.” Sort and sift through seasonal items and donate items that no longer fit or are no longer needed. Once you’ve made your way through summer castoffs, turn your energy to other items that are seldom used or worn. Sort into three separate piles; Keep, Donate and Discard. Keep only the things you believe you will use or wear again, with the caveat that if you can’t find a suitable way to store it, then it must be time to let it go. For those never-going-to-be-read-again books, try stocking some of the area’s Little Free Libraries. In addition promoting literacy, these miniature libraries encourage a greater sense of community for their patrons. Visit littlefreelibrary.org/ourmap to find one near you. Better Business Bureau (BBB) has a free Document Shredding event scheduled for October 14. The location is still to be determined. Check for details on their website bbb.org/memphis or call 901-759-1300. Repeat Boutique, the Junior League Thrift Shop at 3586 Summer Avenue, accepts donations of gently used clothing, shoes and accessories for all ages, home furnishings and housewares, as well as children’s items. Donations may be dropped off Tuesday - Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Questions? Call 901-327-4777. The mission of Dress for Success is “to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.” In Memphis, donate gently used, office-appropriate clothing at 2730 Colony Park Drive, Suite #7. For more information, call 901-363-3100. Goodwill has over 50 donation centers throughout the Greater Memphis area. They accept clothing, housewares and furniture. To find a convenient location near you, visit goodwillmemphis.org. To see a complete list of items accepted by Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 7130 Winchester Road, visit memphisrestore.com/donate. Donations are received Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and free pick-up is available for larger items such as furniture and appliances. One hundred percent of the profits generated from the ReStore benefit Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
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August
Harold Byrd
Co-founder/President of Bank of Bartlett University of Memphis Board of Visitors Member Lane College Board Member Hometown: Selmer, Tennessee Your Most Annoying Habit: Driving too fast Favorite Place to Travel: The California coast Favorite Song: “My Girl” by The Temptations Your Lucky Charm: Memories of my parents Your Best Quality: Encouraging and inspiring others Best Advice You Ever Got: “Remember who you are” Favorite Southern Idiom: “Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed” Place You Go to Think: No special place, just need solitude Who Would Play You in a Movie: A young Richard Gere The Highlight of Your Day: Time spent with family and friends
First Car You Owned: A 1971 Satellite Sebring Plus by Plymouth
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: The University of Memphis Tigers
Best Memphis Hangout: I have two favorite places, The Peabody and anywhere along the Mississippi River One Goal You’d Still Like
to
Accomplish: Measuring up
to be half as good a person as either my Mom or my Dad
A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite Dinner: For me, it’s a four-way tie: FDR, Churchill, JFK and MLK Something You’ll Never Live Down: As a kid, I accidentally to
set a pasture hillside on fire by throwing a Molotov Cocktail while playing “soldiers.”
Proudest Moment
of
Your Life: With the help of my family and
Photo by Steve Roberts
close friends, I was elected to the Tennessee State Legislature when I was 25 and started Bank of Bartlett at age 29
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experience Peace of mind has never been more inviting. 177 North Highland Street | Memphis, TN |
901.515.2800
| www.trezevantmanor.org
Memphis Moment
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August
901Fest A Memphis-Themed Celebration
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he grand finale of the Memphis in May International Festival got underway on a warm sunny Saturday afternoon as thousands of guests passed through the gates of Tom Lee Park for 901Fest 2017. It was a day of Memphis music, food, beer, wine, and art. Four stages featured music and fine arts from Mark Twain’s storytelling to Opera Memphis. Partygoers enjoyed music from Star and Micey, The General Store, featuring Keith Sykes, Muck Sticky and Willie “Too Big” Hall. John Paul Keith was there to rock the party, too. There was plenty of delicious food and drink on hand from Central BBQ, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken and even good old fashioned Pronto Pups. At 6 p.m., The Commemorative Air Force put on a spectacular air show that really wowed the crowd. For the finale, the night sky over the river was lit up by a fantastic display of fireworks. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Rachel and Lily Smith
Jolene Sullivan, Shane Gorman and Baylee Sullivan
Ashley Wolfe and Mary Wolfe
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Allison Kerr and Travis Bradley
Eric and Karicha Tate with Kristen Willliams
Brandon Breard and Anna Stilinovic
Ashley and Brett Talley with Courtney McCahill
Sally and Richard Jones
Jake and Danielle Thomas
Mary Kendrick and Kate Day
Barbara and Chris Myers
Sherri Smith and Michael Mitchell
Memphis Moment
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Southern Junkers Vintage Market Treasures From the Past
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s Ruth Barnes set up her Southern Junkers Spring Vintage Market at the Agricenter International, she brought together a juried assortment of vendors showcasing and selling collectibles, art, jewelry and accessories. Every booth was staged for vintage appeal. The big difference between this market and most other, is that the majority of items for sale had been repurposed from their original lives. Additionally, Kim Leggett, author and designer/owner at City Farmhouse in Franklin, TN gave shoppers inspiration by designing a space with “Perfect Porch Appeal.” There was also a Vintage Fashion Show hosted by D’Elle Memphis. Food trucks rounded out Barnes’ market, with offerings from Donna’s Kettle Corn, Say Cheese, Eric’s Grill and Catering, Ms. American Pie, The Farmer’s Perk Coffee and Greg’s Roasted Nuts. “We had over 60 vendors, all under one roof, for a two-day show,” said Barnes. “Vendors and shoppers alike helped preserve the history and the untold stories of the past from the found treasures presented at our Southern Junkers Vintage Market.”
Brad and Crystal Toombs
Amber Orman and Lisa Mathis
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Susye Sisk, Vicki Clark and Cathy Clark
Jacqueline Enfield and Ashley Bradshaw Ruth Barnes and Mamie Shannon
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Nancy and Mike Clark
Jessica Golden and Tina Long
Linda Williams and Lisa Reid
Cindy Wood and Jana Wilson
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Ken and Sherri Royal
Jeannie Busby
Nikki Pittman and Carlie Anthony
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Megan Banaszek Helping Grow the Carpenter Art Garden Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
August
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StreetSeen
s her contract with AmeriCorps was coming to an end, Megan Banaszek started looking at options for her next move. Originally a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Megan knew that she wanted a location that was no more than a day’s drive from home. Memphis made the list. “I came to Memphis for a weekend visit and stayed at a youth hostel in Cooper-Young,” recalled Megan. “That environment allowed me to not only meet locals, but also to talk to others staying in the area who had been to Memphis before.” “Memphis felt very ‘livable’ and offered a reasonable cost of living,” added Megan. “Prior to my actual move, I connected with Sarah Petschonek of Volunteer Odyssey and joined the organization’s Job Seekers program when I got to town.” Over seven days, Megan volunteered at seven different nonprofits, one of which was the Carpenter Art Garden. The old adage “timing is everything” rang true. “I really enjoyed my stint at the Carpenter Art Garden,” said Megan. “When I met Erin Harris, founder and Executive Director of the Art Garden, she had been running everything herself with the help of a crew of volunteers. At that point however, she was looking to hire a full-time person.” Megan signed on to be the Director of Programs and Community Outreach at Carpenter Art Garden. “I believed in the Art Garden’s mission of working with children from the Binghamton area to promote each one’s creative potential and self-worth through exposure to free artistic education and vocational programs,” said Megan. “And, I have seen the difference our programming has made in the lives of these children, as well as other residents of the neighborhood.
Now at our five-year point, we’re working with a group of consultants to develop a road map to continue our growth.” Three years ago when Megan started at the Carpenter Art Garden, there were only the original art garden and a community vegetable garden serving about 70 kids (the program initially started with six or seven children). Fast forward to today. With the addition of another community vegetable garden, two indoor spaces, a mosaic sculpture garden, and a new lot on Tillman, there are seven properties where approximately 120 kids participate in programs throughout the week. “We are sited just off Tillman, near Cornerstone Prep and Lester elementary schools. A lot of who we serve are children who walk by or near our properties,” explained Megan. Megan described her role saying, “I do have a title, but we all pitch in to cover all aspects of our operation. I recruit kids, artists and volunteers. I give tours. I help coordinate donations and events, like our fiveyear anniversary party. And, I write grants—putting things in place to keep our programs going.” Programming encompasses life lessons as well as art lessons. Children are exposed to a variety of artistic endeavors, including an ongoing art installation by neighborhood teenagers called a ‘mosaic park,’ led by Binghamton resident Eddie Johnson. Cristian Anzures, a Memphis College of Art student, headed the Comic Club,
leading students to publish a comic this year featuring their own animation and graphic art. “We recruit community volunteers and local artists to lead art projects,” explained Megan. “And while that interaction is art-related, it is also very much about building relationships. Some of the children’s artwork becomes permanent art installations, like the ‘yard hearts’ and ‘GrizzHearts’ or painted tires that become planters given to neighbors. Our kids are also engaged in painting murals around the neighborhood.” Other activities include community bike rides, as well as bike mechanic programs for area teenagers, led by Bike Shop Manager Lee Evans and program assistants Mario Watkins and Eddie Johnson, all Binghamton residents. Community Garden Coordinator LaTonya Hunt lives just steps away from the garden and leads the Kids Garden Club. She oversees two gardens; one for neighboring families who are responsible for taking care of their raised beds, and the other for the students. “We’re located in a food desert,”
said Megan. “Our gardens are a means of providing fresh produce. We have a traveling vegetable stand and we also sell at the Overton Park Farmers Market.” Volunteers provide leadership for weekly sewing classes, homework help and ACT prep. Through a partnership with IRIS Orchestra, students have participated in percussion (bucket drumming) and voice lessons. And there are benefits for adult area residents, too. Community Liaison Tarlisa Clark, who leads a Brownie Scout Troop (the first in Binghamton) at the art garden’s Purple House, lives in the neighborhood and holds monthly meetings for the women of the area to get together and talk. “I spend a good deal of time visiting with people and talking with neighbors,” concluded Megan. “In my three years with the Art Garden, I’ve seen so many positive changes in our kids. A lot of them are transitioning into leadership roles, leading art projects here. But more than the art, the point is for these kids and adults to create and build relationships—and then pass it on.”
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Brian Maness Inspired By Beauty Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
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s a child, Brian Maness knew what he wanted to be when he grew up.
“I wanted to be a professional athlete,” recalled Brian. “I loved basketball, baseball, football and soccer and often dreamed of being an NFL specialty kicker.” A native Memphian, Brian grew up around sports. His father, Roger Maness, was the Director of Recreational Ministry at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. So after graduating from Harding Academy on Cherry Road, Brian set off for college at Lambuth University, majoring in Leisure Studies with an emphasis on program planning. He also played college soccer at Lambuth. And it was because of a request from his soccer coach that Brian found his other passion. “My coach wanted all of us to take an ‘easy elective’ to maintain our requisite courseload,” explained Brian. “I chose a three-hour elective course in stained glass.” Subsequently, Brian fell in love with the idea of working with his hands, and developed a respect for the attention to detail involved in the craft of creating glass art. After college, Maness has worked in the field of sports and recreation, but always, he has stayed involved with glass working. Through the
recreational ministry work at Idlewild Presbyterian Church, Maness has taught stained glass and fused glass classes at the church and at Montreat Conference Center. He started building his parttime glass art business in 2010 and has continued to grow it ever since. Now Brian makes a living as the Recreation Director at Colonial Park Methodist Church. And he referees youth sports; soccer, flag football and basketball. But he says being in recreational ministry has allowed him the time to further develop his artistic side, too. “I didn’t have to ‘punt’ my art for my other career,” joked Brian. “I can make my hours in my home studio work around my recreational ministry schedule.” Working with both leaded and copper foil techniques, Brian does a lot of custom stained glass art for doors, windows, transoms and side lights. Additionally, as a glass artist, Brian works with fused and slumped glass to make items such as candle holders, sun catchers, Christmas ornaments, platters and jewelry. “Sometimes I find discarded metal pieces and incorporate them into glass designs for items like lanterns, sconces and lamps,” added Brian. When asked what he likes about working with glass, Brian said, “For me, the ultimate thrill is seeing the finished pieces emerge, watching the beauty of the way light plays off the glass.”
StreetSeen
Brian noted that only a small percentage of local artists work in glass, and while they may “do the same thing,” much like potters, they all have their own look. “Customers come from meeting me at events like the Cooper-Young Festival in September and the Pink Palace Crafts Fair in October, as well as from word-of-mouth recommendations from former clients,” said Brian. For his next big project, Brian says he will be working on a dozen custom orders for traditional stained glass windows. “Most of my clients are local, but some live in other towns across Tennessee and the MidSouth, as well as North Carolina and Kentucky,” said Brian. “All are places where artisan craftsmanship is highly prized and appreciated.” Serving as the current president of the Memphis Arts Collective, Brian is also working to showcase his items along with works from other local artists. “I’m helping coordinate a Holiday Pop-Up Market that will take place from Black Friday (the Friday after Thanksgiving) until Christmas Eve,” said Brian. “It will be located in Midtown, on Union Avenue near Kimbrough Towers.” To learn more about Brian Maness and his glass art, check out his page on Facebook, Midtown Glassworks, or email him at brian.maness@gmail.com .
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Big Wig Ball
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August
Big Wig Ball
T Mollie Miller and Emily Forte
Tarryn Sanchez and Tom Gilmartin
Juni Ganguli and Laurie Hall
Andrew Iupe and Esha Rock
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Letting Their Hair Down for Le Bonheur
he Big Wig Ball 2017 at Annesdale Mansion, benefiting Le Bonheur Children’s Research Hospital, was a huge success in a beautiful historical background. With a crowd of about 200 people, the house was set up for three different musicians: Jerred Price as “Almost Elton John” covering, as his name implies, Elton John hits, Charvey Mac playing a solo blues set and outside, DJ Justin Jaggers, who kept the crowd moving playing ‘90s dance favorites that resonated especially with the older crowd. Guests were immediately offered complimentary valet parking and an umbrella-bearing escort to walk them inside in the light summer rain. In the mansion, light snacks including fajitas were served and paired hors d’oeuvres, such as miniature margaritas and tiny chicken tacos, were served by CFY Catering. A dessert room featuring small cupcakes by Frost Bake Shop was set up for those with a sweet tooth. The event, which was for folks age 21 and older, had several different bars serving cocktails, wine and beer, including one in the VIP lounge. Libations were offered by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Tennessee. Later on, another bar opened up by the dance floor as the crowd got into the music. Also, that’s where the Big Wig Ball awarded the best wig to a woman who only identified herself as “Marie Antoinette.” The ball welcomed attire and wigs of any style and color, and the guests obliged with their eclectic hairdos—one See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
attendee was “wigged out” to look just like President Donald Trump, while others wore wilder, colorful, streaked perukes. David Henson with marketing and public relations at Le Bonheur Hospital said the event raised about $50,000 for the children’s facility. Annesdale Mansion, a 9,000 square-foot, two-story 1850s antebellum home on Lamar Avenue at Central, is surrounded by more than seven acres of gardens and landscaped lawn. The spiral staircase and grand parlor offered plenty of space for the party, and the tall ceilings accommodated nearly every hairstyle that graced the ball. The presenting sponsor of the Big Wig Ball was Independent Bank. Platinum Blonde Wig Sponsors were FedEx and Ring Container Technologies; the Silver Wig Sponsor was Dr. Caley and Mr. Joshua Spotts; the Bronze Wig Sponsor were the Glassman and Stimac Families; Gray Wig Sponsors were Compassion In Action, International Paper, Kendra Scott (who also raised money for Le Bonheur earlier this month at the Shops of Saddle Creek in Germantown), Life Strategies Counseling Inc. and Mark A. Lambert of Morgan & Morgan. Personal Sponsors were Fleming Architects, Kevin Baltier of Edward Jones and Solo Landscape. In-kind sponsors included Annesdale Events, Babalu, Choose901, Colonial Country Club, DJ Justin Jaggers and Deep Blu Entertainment, Frost Bake Shop, Jack Pirtle’s Chicken and Southern Glazer’s. Story and Photos by Rebekah Yearout
Caleb Simmons, Preston Blair, Jonathan Leonard, Joseph Horton and Mark Lambert
August 2017
Keri and Jim Hunter
Sophie Jones and Katie Stephenson
Sam and Collin Buckner
Olivia Mitchell and Kristin Smith
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Big Wig Ball
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Hunter Belk and Collier Turner
Stefan Atarsch and Lebron Cooper
Judith McGee and Sarah Little
Joseph Craig and Kellye Oldham
Kirstie Murphey, Stone Powell and Brooke Vogel
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Ken Robison and Angus McDonald
Drew Zeidwig and Bailey Reed
Locke Issacson and Caley Spotts
Reed and Valentina Evans
Michelle Strocher, Amy Cannon and Forest Dorkowski
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Patrick Nelius and Audray Sharp
Emily McElhaney and Joe Stalnacker
Matt Ortman and Ashley Vogel
Preston Thompson and Valerie Bledsoe
Shauna Hutzel and Ashley Beaver
Big Wig Ball
Kelly Dallas and Collin Buckner
Brittney Whidden and Chelsea Kotara
Brandon Williams and Nicole Friday
Greg Miller and Kyle Cannon
Val Evans and Cristina Gutierrez
Jordan Roehrenbeck and Laura Welch
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August
Stephen and Liza Routh
Melissa Rattle and Katie Walsh
Garrick Florence and LaTonya Washington
AUGUST SEMI-ANNUAL SALE August 8th - August 27th
Save 20% on In-Stock Merchandise + 40% & 60% on Select Items
Worth Jones, Chad Cunningham and Sophie Jones with Katie and Tommy Stephenson
*excluding consignment items
... SEPTEMBER UPHOLSTERY SALE Save 30% on Lee Industries Custom Orders
Rachel Booker, Chigozie Mason, Nicole Hood, Rico Hood and Quinn Hood
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Big Wig Ball
Join us for an enjoyable culinary and social experience that's guaranteed to satisfy any palate. Sample mouth-watering cuisine, desserts, wine and beer from some of the area's finest restaurants and caterers.
Presented by
Saturday, August 26 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Tickets $75 in advance and $80 at the door
21 and over
●
901.755.1200
Great Hall and Conference Center 1900 South Germantown Road
Live Jazz Music • Silent Auction Live auction benefiting the Madonna Learning Center
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Jeff Burress
Fontaine Brown
Amelia Brown
Steve Bearman
Pam Beall
Jeanne Arthur
Paige Arnold
Savannah Cantrell
Helen Akin
Tom Kimbrough
EAST ME
crye-leike.com Benny Carter
219 East Goodwyn Street Trey Hogue
585 South Perkins •
$699,000 901-652-3644
Chris Cooper
Cheryl Crider
Carol Dupree
1432 Vinton Avenue Walker Hays
Didi Dwyer
Loura Edmondson
$515,000 901-652-1670
Robin Fauser
2935 Iroquois Road Jeanne Arthur
Barb Frazer
Nick French
$719,000 901-634-2800
Jan Gordon
Walker Hays
19 Cherokee Drive Jeanne Arthur
Trey Hogue
Jan Hop
Tommie Criswell
Camille Zanone
Clara Yerger
Amy Woods
Adam Williams
Vivian Watson
Fontaine Taylor
Michael Varner
Carol K. Stout
EMPHIS
901.766.9004 • Memphis, TN 38117
nie pkins
Megan Stout
2068 Firefly Cove Trey Hogue
$499,000 901-652-3644
Paula Sternberger
Blake Sternberger
$639,000 901-634-2800
Sylvia Joure
2943 Tishomingo Road Jeanne Arthur
Joy Kimbrough
Nan Lee
$1,194,000 901-634-2800
Toni Martello
1876 Overton Park Avenue Chris Cooper
Kathryn Anne Matheny
Alice Newton
$960,000 901-482-3820
Jeanne Nixon
Jim Pascover
Martha Robertson
Suzanne Plyler
Memphis Moment
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Greekfest Opa! Celebrating Food, Music, Heritage and Culture
T
wo wonderful days in May are set aside each year for one of the most colorful and delicious festivals in Memphis. More than 15,000 people got the chance to be “Greek for a day” at the 59th annual Memphis Greek Festival, a celebration of Greek culture, music and cuisine at The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. It was a day of dancing, food, and fun, as well as the chance to get a glimpse of the rich traditions and faith of this amazing country. Tender mouth-watering Greek Marinated Pork Tenderloin was served up along with baked Greek-style lemon chicken, and Greek marinated lamb chops. Sides included salad, green beans, rice, and Spanakopita (Spinach Pie). There was a marketplace where visitors could take home scrumptious Greek Pastries, and a Taverna featuring Greek wines and appetizers. Father Simon Thomas led tours of the beautiful sanctuary.
Milan Mathias and Ritesh Castelino
Alison and Matt Uselton
Kathy and Michael Zambelis
Jim and Vickie Pierce
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Carolyn and Paul Greer
Patricia Grantham and Demie Bitinis
Chris Dickerson and Sham Richardson
Brenda Holt, Angela Holt and Anna Paris
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David Kustoff, Joy Touliatos and Maryanne Dunavant
Khristie Kelly and Mary Fletcher
Andrew and Tina Douglas
Steve, Jill and Stephanie Green
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Memphis Moment
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Latino Festival A Celebration of Colombia
E
ven from the fringes of Overton Park, the excitement was palpable as the Latino Memphis Festival brought more than 3,000 people together for a celebration of Colombia, this year’s Memphis in May honored country. The festival began with a Fiesta 5K and moved on to a Colombian Zumbathon. As the morning continued, teams competed for top bragging rights in a Salsa-Making Championship. A team from Carson Rodizio brought their flavor of Brazilian barbecue to the festival, cooking over 600 pounds of meat on their specialty grill. At the other end of the park, two local Colombian restaurants, Arepas Deliciosas and Mi Terra, cooked on grills and metal slabs that topped wood fires contained in metal drums. La Michoacana was on hand with their cool treats of paletas (popsicles). Colorful dancers from the Colombian Forkloric Ballet of Houston impressed the crowd with their moves. Additionally, there were salsa dance lessons for young and old alike. The afternoon ended with an Afro-Colombian folk music performance.
Francisco Alberto, Leticia Alberto, Zury Mercado and Jaime Mercado
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Yusleyvi Santiago, Felipe Cervantes and Mauricio Calvo
Irvin Mercado, Patria Mercado and Ziola Zavaleta
Bruno Kelly and Mauricio Ramirez
Lucino Molina, Joaquin Olvera and Bertha Cardona
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August 2017
Deveney Perry and Leslie Smith
Blake Carson, Andrew Yarbrough and Max Witherington
Sara Ayaz, Josh Metcalf, Shali Ledbetter Atkinson and Mike Hooker
Thalia Repelin, Dakota Williams and Julieta Patarroyo
Deborah and Vic Charles
Nawar Mansour, Isabelle Mansour and Nicole Mansour
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Live at the Garden
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August
Live at the Garden
P Chris and Cheryl Gillespie
Debbie and John Schuman
Summer Concert Series
art party, part picnic, and all together fun—that’s what hundreds of people experienced as the Live at the Garden Series brought the rock band “Boston” to the stage at the Memphis Botanic Garden for its first concert of their summer series. The band was traveling across the country on its “HyperSpace Tour.” Boston brought their all-American brand of music to add to the festivities of the extended Fourth of July holiday weekend in Memphis. Some concert-goers came with tables and chairs, others brought blankets and quilts, but all of them set up on the garden’s lawn for an evening of entertainment. There were also a series of reserved tables in front of the stage that offered VIP seating. Along with a choice spot on the lawn, guests in that area were also treated to a light supper buffet provided by Wild Beet Catering and Ultimate Foods. The menu included a salad bar, buffalo chicken dip and crackers, penne pasta and brownies. The outdoor concert under the stars attracted a decidedly adult crowd. Boston offered them a dose of nostalgia with hits that put the band on the charts during the 1970s and See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
1980s. Many members of the crowd sang along to old-school favorites like “More Than a Feeling,” “Rock and Roll Band,” and “Don’t Look Back.” Carol Schoenrock, a preschool teacher at Rossville Christian Academy, attended the event with her husband, Daron, head coach of the Memphis Tigers baseball team. Carol said that this was the first of the Live at the Garden concerts that she had attended, but that she had been a Boston fan since her high school days in the early 1980s. “I’m still mad at my best friend who borrowed my Boston albums when we were sophomores in high school,” said Carol in a teasing tone. “She never gave them back.” “Now in its 17th year, the Live at the Garden series offers guests a fun way to celebrate summer with a star-studded line-up that takes place on our 96-acres of unsurpassed natural beauty,” said Sherry May, co-director of Live at the Garden Memphis. “Our Live at the Garden concert series is a music-lover’s dream come true. This summer we are presenting five concerts, the last one will be on September 15.”
Holly Craft and Amy Dudek
Ryan and China Jenkins
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Suzanne and Todd Hollenbeck
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Jill and Patrick Collins
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Joe and Barbara Evangelisti
Mary Padron, Melissa Krylowicz and Johnna Popper
August 2017
Hayden and Kevin Kane
August
Judy and Jerry Shore
Tim and March Bass with Todd Lochner
Live at the Garden
Louis Vescovo, Patrick Lawler and Ellen Westbrook with Susan and Steve Vescovo and Michael Cervetti
Lee and Donna Moffatt with Donna and Pat Hoffman
Melissa and Bill Taras
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Jordan and Kimberly Briggs
Chris Jenkins and Stefani Anglikin
Pam and Chris Guernsey
Kathleen and William Cates with Bonnie and Kurt Voldeng
August 2017
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Memphis Moment
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August
Cooper-Young Garden Walk Another Step for Community Pride
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he second annual Cooper-Young Garden Walk has grown by leaps and bounds since the seeds were planted last year. Starting with 28 gardens the first year, the 2017 event showcased more than 75 gardens at residences and businesses in the Midtown neighborhood. Playing up CooperYoung’s footprint of being an eclectic area, the Garden Walk highlighted displays and plantings that were often artistic, quirky and whimsical. Garden Walk founder and chairman Kim Halyak said, “We wanted to celebrate all gardeners, whether they were in their infancy in developing their green thumbs or those who had practiced their green ways for decades.” Attendees viewed gardens ranging from colorful patio plantings at Loudean’s to the self-made paradise at the home of Jim McCown and Connie Arduini and the magnificently restored property of Randall Witherington, owner of the oldest house in Cooper-Young. Proceeds from the event will support ongoing beautification projects in the Cooper-Young area and their Level III Arboretum. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Paige Kozeniewski and Ben Young
Chris and Christina Povall
Donna Burkhead, Sharon Cooper, Rayelynn Littlejohn and Mark Renick
Jim McCown and Connie Arduini
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Betty Baltz and Savannah Koonce
Steve Rogers, Kris Keith and Michael Friedman
Caroline Brown and Anne Riordan
August 2017
Angie Wallick
Bill Schosser and Beverly Cooper
Joyce Boggs and June Taylor
Jake Fasano, Kim Halyak and Caroline Smart
Barbara Buchanan and John Chambliss
OPERAMEMPHIS.ORG
Promise Ball
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August
Promise Ball
I Jody Jonakin and Sandra Korpitz
Luke and Tan Yancy
Stacy and Emily Doonan
t was a magical and elegant evening to remember at The Memphis Hilton for the 2017 Promise Ball, Masquerade For A Cure, a mask and Black Tie event to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in their quest to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. The festivities began at 6 p.m. as guests passed through black gold-trimmed silk curtains, and descended the escalator to the ballroom. Going past elaborately dressed and masked mannequins, partygoers entered a colorful, surreal world of jugglers, harlequins, stilt walkers and magicians. The welcome reception included cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a whiskey pull, and a Kendra Scott jewelry pull. Over 480 guests mingled over libations while perusing one of the most amazing silent auctions in the history of Memphis. Items up for bids included fine wines, artwork, jewelry, and gift certificates from The Memphis Zoo, River City Gymnastics, The Memphis Grizzlies, Bella Vita Gifts and Interiors, and Kim Rhodes Fine Art. Ridgeway Country Club donated a Wilson Burn 100S tennis racquet, and there were books and memorabilia from Graceland. Some of the unique silent auction items included an autographed bottle of Mick Fleetwood Private Cellar Merlot, as well as a complete Fleetwood Mac Vinyl Collection personally signed by Mick Fleetwood. There was a Dirty Martini Kit from Busters Liquors, and bottles of whiskey and vodka from Old Dominick Distillery. Hilton Memphis pitched in with a Relax and Retreat See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Andrea and Mike Stark
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Masquerading For a Cure Package at the hotel and Theatre Memphis donated a membership for the 2017-2018 season. Guests marveled at the magic of Larry Clark and enjoyed tunes by Shane Dauberger of Perfection DJs. Guests were seated at beautifully decorated tables for dinner and welcomed by Master of Ceremonies and Auctioneer, Fox 13 News Anchor Darrell Greene, along with 2017 Miss Memphis Callie Compton. The elegant dinner started with fresh mozzarella with marble tomato and basil salad with hearts of Romaine in a Parmesan balsamic vinaigrette and cilantro ranch dressing, followed by an entrée of grilled pork chop and crab uu gratin with smashed red bliss potatoes, carrots, spinach and cauliflower, and topped off by a scrumptious chocolate tuxedo mousse gondola and a special masquerade surprise for dessert. The live auction was an exciting affair, with priceless items up for bids, including the chance to ride on The Krewe of Orpheus Float in next year’s Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. Guests also bid on VIP Club level seats to a Bruno Mars 24K Magic World Tour Concert, a fabulous island getaway on St. Thomas, NFL Club seats at a Dallas Cowboys game, and a one week stay at La Riva Condominium at Perdido Key Florida. JDRF works tirelessly to change the reality of Diabetes for millions of people by funding research, advocating for government support of research, and ensuring that new therapies come to market. Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Austin and Liz Carroll with Beth Murphree and LeeAnn Kight
August 2017
Jeremiah Mooney and Candace Montgomery
Al and Sally Perry
Brandon and Elizabeth Musso
Becca Clark and Maren Clark
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Jim Messina September 20 7:30pm
Talented singer-songwriter, member of Buffalo Springfield, Poco and co-founder of Loggins & Messina.
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Snowkus Pokus December 1 7:30pm Think Cirque meets The Nutcracker. Family fun at the holidays!
Tickets & Info 24/7 BPACC.org
Michael Martin Murphey October 7 7:30pm
LoRrie Morgan September 28 7:30pm
Gifted musician performs hits: Wildfire Carolina in the Pines - What’s forever for.
Enchanting country music star with over 15 top 10 hits!
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Gary Morris January 27 7:30pm
His music spans country, adult contemporary and Broadway’s LES MISERABLES. Gary’s biggest hit is WIND BENEATH MY WINGS.
Melba Moore April 14 7:30pm
R&B Singer, Tony Award Winner, Grammy nominee enchants with her amazing voice.
Edwin McCain May 10 7:30pm
“The great American romantic” touches the heart with I’ll be - I could not ask for more.
Box Office Hours 1o:00am to 2:00pm 901.385.5588 August 2017
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Promise Ball
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August
Antonio and Kendra Pickens
Kim and Johnny Williams
Jessica Prophett and Rachael Bates
Roberta and Jim Hefley
Linda and Mike Albright with Betty Lautner and Linda Lesley
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August 2017
Frank and Renee Canter
Grant and Melissa Gibbs
Amy and Drew Murrah
Darin and Tammy Drake
Sonny Golden, Carolyn Epps, Nancy Golden and Michael Epps
Promise Ball
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August
Owen Canter, Harper Murrah, Cheyanne Hall and Sarah Bates
Renee and Shane Dauberger with Bobbie Nance
Meris and Dan Whitley
Debra and Floyd Voss
Cynda and Carl Zeidler
Shelley and Kevin Baltz with Adrienne and Chris LeBlanc
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Michelle and Raj Midha
August 2017
John and Rebecca Harber
Dr. Julie Kate Webster, Benlyn Wade, Dr. Shazia Hussain and Zoya Latif
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August
Gloria Whitehead and Monica White
Matt and Angel Alexander
Susie Harrell and Trey Lowery
Harriet and Joe O’Shields
Nathan Massey, Sofia Baltz and Jonah Williams
Promise Ball
Summer and Cecil Godman
Collin and Alicia Cull
Hannah Williams and Callie Compton
Annie and Renai Mansel
Alicia Diaz-Thomas, Sarah James and Scott James
August 2017
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Memphis Moment
August
Blue and Gray Gala Supporting Tiger Scholarships and Athletics
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beautiful lakeside sunset was the stunning backdrop as Jim and Natalie Meeks of Northwestern Mutual presented the Blue and Gray Gala at the FedEx Event Center. It was a Blue Tie affair to benefit the Tiger Scholarship Fund and University of Memphis Athletics. The 200 guests gathered for this elegant evening included Director of Athletics Tom Bowen, University President Dr. M. David Rudd, Former Mayor Bill Morris, Chuck Roberts, and CEO of Morris Auction Group Jeff Morris. Guests participated in a Wine Pull that was set up at the entrance to the ballroom before entering to check out items on the silent auction tables. Goodies included signed jerseys from Willie Kemp, Jimmy “Snap” Hunter, and Doneal Mack, as well as fine jewelry and accessories from Kendra Scott, and golf packages from Quail Ridge. Chef Jimmy Gentry of Paradox Catering served up a fabulous dinner.
Faith Myers and Jason Kimmet
Grace Wade and Katie Woodruf
Mia Bowen and Stephen Green
Suzanne Gehringer and Amy Luckett
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Bob Winn and Kim House
Iain and Shirley Mason
William and Carol Kenley with Adam Miller
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August 2017
Kim Barnett and Stevan Black
Bill Morris, Charles Burkett and Jeff Morris
Zameta Ivy, Christopher Walker and Taylor Barnes
Morgan Thornton, Maddy Uenking and Alyxandria Stafford
Steven and Alanna Mizell with Bob Baker
Memphis Moment
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August
Steak N’ Burger Dinner Benefiting The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis
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ince 1958 The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis have been fulfilling their mission of commitment to young people in the Mid-South by helping them grow into healthy, productive citizens through their excellent mentoring programs. The Boys and Girls Clubs serve kids in three core areas: academic success, character and leadership development, and the development of healthy lifestyles. In celebration of the great positive impact on so many lives, the 46th annual Steak N’ Burger Dinner was held at The Racquet Club of Memphis. Hundreds of supporters turned out for this long-time tradition at which youth served by the organization ate steak, while the grown-ups dined on burgers. Guests were welcomed by 2017 Central Board Chair Steve Bargiacchi and 2017 Steak N Burger Chair Todd Photopulos. Featured Guest Event Speaker was University of Tennessee head football coach Butch Jones. Steak N’ Burger is the BGCM’s biggest single fundraiser.
Andy Mathes, Keith Blanchard, and Todd Photopulos
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Emily Cutliff and Mandy Powell
George Young and Jeff Sullivan
Jeff McIlvain and Butch Jones
Karen Mullis and John Arnold
Joan Cannon and Mark Porada
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August 2017
Betsy Olim and Watty Brooks Hall
Shay Flowers and Brad Brown
Tenisha Harris and Kendra Walker
Rob Vance and Tim Sellers
Brian Glunt and Renwick Lane
Adrienne Rogers, Tony Harley, and Katrina Bradshaw
August
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Memphis Moment
Duration Club Luncheon Installation of Officers
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Annemarie Bobay, Gail Thompson and Joan Draper
Hilda Mullen and Norma McCrory
he Duration Fine Arts Club held its annual Spring Luncheon at the Crescent Club. As a prelude to the meal, vocalist Debbie Kines entertained the group and was accompanied by pianist Cheryl Maccarino. Afterwards Gail Thompson gave the devotional. The seated lunch included green salad, chicken crepes with white wine sauce served with sautéed squash and zucchini, and apple tarts for dessert. The meeting included the organization’s installation of officers for the 2017-2018 year. Outgoing president Kay Price served as emcee and Ann Wieties conducted the installation ceremony. Tommie Pardue was installed as the group’s president. Installed as her officers were Katherine Getske, vice president; Betty Lu Jones, secretary; Joan Draper, treasurer; and Hilda Mullen, program chairman. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Betty Lu Jones and Mary Nelson
Katherine Getske, Ann Wieties and Kay Price
Donna Godwin, Frances Dear and Lil Allen
Nancy Chamblin and Gerry Thomas
Donna McManus and Tommie Pardue
Scott Lane, Debbie Kines and Cheryl Maccarino
August 2017
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Memphis Moment
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August
Summer Symphony A Spectacular Evening Under the Stars
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t was a glorious way to usher in summer as crowds flocked to the annual Summer Symphony at the Live Garden (Memphis Botanic Garden) event. The VIP Picnic Area offered guests prime table seating on the lawn in front of the stage, as well as heavy hors d’oeuvres and a VIP Lounge. Other guests claimed their spots with lawn chairs and blankets as the evening progressed into a spectacular night under the stars. The show began with the homegrown talents of the Mighty Souls Brass Band. When guest conductor Norman Huyhn and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO) took the stage, they were joined by featured guest soloist La’Porsha Renae, a singer from McComb, Mississippi who was runner-up during the final season of American Idol in 2016. Pyrotechnics added a dramatic flair as the performance came to a close, with bursts of fireworks illuminating the darkness. For additional information about MSO, call (901) 537-2500 or visit www.memphissymphony.org.
Leslie Freeland, Jenny Fratesi and Emilee Herrington
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Nicole Curlee and Grace Clement
June and Andy Beleu
Charlene and Barry Sparrow
Mark and Jenny Snape
Summer Godman, Katherine Godoy, Sally Perry and Colleen Capstick
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August 2017
Alicia Forsythe and Leanne Forsythe
Julie Ray and Greg Belz
Jenny Hurt and Morgan White
Jason and Heather Marshall
Maria Pirani, Maddie Otto and Hilary Simpson
Cannon Conway, Wilson Conway, Emmye Conway and Karey Conway
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August A photo
AFTER HOURS collage of the latest business happenings
Memphis Center for Aesthetic Medicine VIP Open House
Lynesa Williams, Dr. Sayyida Abdus-Salaam and Rebecca Ugwueke
Louis Conley and Denaya Edwards
After Hours
Ma’Ani and Samadhi Martin
Najaa Cottman, Rakiyah Cottman and Jessica Pollard
Truffle Pig Grand Opening
Vicki Babb and Hallie Charney
Kim Grant and Melissa Fagan
Holly Linder and Jole Lovelace
Tricia Atkins and Craig Whittington
Savannah Haentzler and Sadie Haentzler
Tara Gorman and Charlene Soltis
August 2017
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Crossword
August
RSVP Crossword ACROSS 1 Ended 5 Heaps 10 Escapade 14 Dad 15 Heathen gods 16 Sandwich cookie 17 Old
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Edited By Ruth Cassin
18 Access (2 wds.) 19 Triad 20 Loyal 22 Take by surprise 23 River, in Barcelona 24 Billion years 26 Reporter's question 27 "Aweson, dude!" 30 Couch 33 Shirt protector 35 Detail 37 One who wastes, as in money 42 Approach 43 Memphis to Birmingham dir. 44 Spicy Asian food 45 Pharmacy 49 Tropical edible root 50 Sun 51 365 days 53 Dynamite 54 Unit of frequency (abbr.) 57 Boxer Muhammad 59 Hen-peck 61 Holy table 63 Reeled 69 Latin for "god" or "deity" 70 Leaning 71 Take down 72 Los Angeles football team 73 Car rental place 74 Bog down
August 2017
75 Sports channel 76 Cosmetic giant Lauder 77 Fastener
DOWN 1 Musical composition 2 Big 3 Dueling sword 4 Walter O'Reilly's nickname 5 Sow's supper? 6 Whim 7 Undeveloped realty untis 8 Excite 9 Retired fast flyer (abbr.) 10 Unwilling to do something (var.) 11 Cupid's dart 12 German kingdom 13 Nuts 21 Walt's co., on the NYSE 22 Clip 25 Kimono sash 27 Costa __ 28 Upon 29 Test, as in a car 31 Royal or state treasury 32 Analyze for quality 34 Sheet of matted cotton 36 NYC baseball team 38 Arid 39 Not this 40 Take in 41 Turbulence 46 Frost
47 Building addition 48 Chinese river 52 Oil stick cleaner 54 Core group 55 Urgent requests 56 Confound 58 Atolls 60 Bacterium 62 Organization (abbr) 64 Sour 65 Pay to play 66 Water from the sky 67 Biblical Jewish scribe 68 Profound 70 That girl
Unhappy Campers •
August
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icture this; a mid-60s model Country Squire station wagon, sky blue, with faux wood paneling on the sides. Inside there are eight people. In the front seat are my parents, both of whom have dyed, permed hair. In the back seat are four children, ranging in age By Dennis Phillippi from 16 to 10. Behind them, in the wagon part of the station wagon are me, age 6, and my brother Doug, age 9, sitting in pop-up seats, kicking one another. There is not a seat belt to be found anywhere in this vehicle. It is 1971 and we are screaming down an unfinished part of something called an “Interstate”. Much of the wide road is still leveled dirt. My father has decided to experiment with how far he can drive on this completely unsecured freeway project, at well over 70 miles an hour, before he runs out of bridges. We were on our way to the mountains of North Carolina for the annual August Family Vacation. If you’ve done the math then you understand that my parents manufactured six kids in the span of 10 years. You’ve also noticed the stunning array of questionable other decisions my folks made. If memory serves, my father was wearing matching faux denim jacket and pants. Not jeans mind you, faux denim pants, with decorative white stitching. This was known as a “leisure suit.” Casual enough for driving to the mountains, quasidressy enough to wear to the office. My mom, I’m sure, was wearing a pants suit, and we kids were all wearing bell bottoms and were in the early stages of disastrous early 70s hairstyles. When you watch “That ‘70s Show” and laugh at the haircuts you have no idea what they really looked like. The hair on that show is toned down to not look as ludicrous as we actually looked. Once we arrived in the mountains, thankfully having not plunged off of a half-finished bridge, we pulled into the campground. Now, I have no idea what campgrounds are like these days, but back then this one was comprised of marked off dirt lots. This little slice of heaven was just large enough to accommodate the whale of a car and a large canvas tent. You read that right, our tent wasn’t some space age waterproof fabric that breathed and had windows. The Space Age was taking place at that moment and the cool stuff hadn’t trickled down to normal people yet. Although we did have Tang, the powdered orange drink that the astronauts supposedly enjoyed in orbit and on the way to the moon. Why our brave men piloting rockets were willing to choke down this swill is beyond me. Our tent was World War II era technology.
There was no Velcro. There was no floor. There was no air. If it rained and you made the mistake of touching the wall of the tent, that place would immediately begin seeping water and wouldn’t stop until we all went away to college. This structure was intended to house “up to four people”, but when you’ve gone ahead and produced half a dozen offspring, those kind of suggestions often went ignored. We were crammed into this space
If memory serves, my father was wearing matching faux denim jacket and pants. Not jeans mind you, faux denim pants, with decorative white stitching. This was known as a “leisure suit.” Casual enough for driving to the mountains, quasidressy enough to wear to the office. like cordwood, often two to a sleeping bag. These were appalling conditions that would have been red flagged by the Geneva Convention. To this day, I can remember the smell of wet canvas and teenagers. The activities during this August Family Vacation amounted to going into the woods. That is no exaggeration, once were all awake, which
RSVPhillippi
was as soon as the sun began turning the tent into a huge Easy-Bake OvenTM, we were all expected to just go into the woods. “Not too far” was the vague safety instruction. The older kids would loaf around in folding plastic chairs listening to the radio, which my father thought was needlessly intrusive. He thought we should enjoy “the sounds of nature,” which were comprised of mosquitoes droning and birds shrieking. It was better to endure The Carpenters and Helen Reddy. My brother Doug and I would pretty much splash around in the nearest creek or try to get our hands on matches. We would’ve loved to have been at home watching “The Partridge Family,” but it was summer, so there wasn’t anything on TV anyway. When people hear that I’m the youngest of six kids born in 10 years, they often make jokes about The Partridge Family or The Brady Bunch or The Waltons. Those sure were big happy families. We were just big. No one ever bothered to explain to us why exactly we drove for seven hours to sleep on the ground and eat hot dogs my dad burned on the rusted, falling apart permanent campsite iron grill. One of my chores during the day (I wish I was making this up) was to gather sticks and twigs and branches to act as fuel for this “cooking.” My wife and I have a lot of friends that are considerably younger than us, and they often go camping. Any time someone says that word, I involuntarily wince, but their experience is far different than mine. They sleep in high tech tents made of lightweight fabric that acts as a coolant in the summer and a heater in winter. These tents can apparently fold small enough to carry in your wallet. They have bicycles that can be lifted with a pinky finger and camp stoves that are solar powered and can make flans and soufflés. They sleep on air mattresses that feel like floating on clouds. I hate them. Every few years my wife suggests we reconsider “our position on camping.” That’s because when she was a kid her family camped in a Camper. Basically a van with a pop-up roof. I won’t even consider that. I consider it “roughing it” if the TV remote in our hotel room doesn’t have a “previous channel” button. Happy camping campers, I’ll think about you when I get my wake up call.
August 2017
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August
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ver the years, tens of thousands of people have captured their visit to the Memphis Zoo with a photograph. Wilma Miller and her four daughters (from left) Lori, Lola, Glenda and Brenda strike a pose at this iconic location. Photo courtesy of Lori Hudson If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Emily Adams Keplinger at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
GREAT THINGS GO ON HERE! 6075 Poplar Avenue – Ninth Floor Memphis, TN 38119 901-684-1010 Crecent-Club.com
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August 2017