M AY 2017
Brooks FedExFamilyHouse ONE Night Gala Gala Uncorked
11777 Macon Road
50 Canonbury Cv.
190 E. Galloway Dr.
$774,000
$559,900
$895,000
Eads, TN 38028
Southern country home located in Fisherville/Grays Creek Preservation Area. This very private estate is situated on 12 acres. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 fireplaces (2 masonry), amazing views from porches on each side of home overlooking large pond. Fenced pasture and stalls. Near St. Georges and Briarcrest schools and a few minutes from Highway 385. Video tour of home at YouTube. https://youtu.be/WkAB8z-a08o Call today for a private showing.
Eads, TN 38028
Memphis, TN 38111
Located in Canterbury Manor, this 5 bedroom 4.5 bath home is loaded with extras! Over one acre lot features a covered patio with outdoor kitchen and koi pond, irrigation system, professional landscaping, and Arkansas fieldstone. Kitchen cabinets are custom painted, rustic beams throughout living spaces, travertine floors and plantation shutters. Master bathroom has soaking tub and frameless shower. Two bedrooms downstairs, separate office with fireplace, upstairs den and spacious bonus room—this floor plan has it all!
Beautiful sunsets! Galloway Golf Course 1 acre estate! Rare opportunity to own a 1 acre east side estate with one of the most beautiful views in Memphis! Well maintained and updated traditional home features grand center hall, high ceilings, 4 or 5 bedrooms, 5.1 baths, 40’ pool, pool house and fantastic kitchen open to living space! Screened porch, basement. Luxury master suite down, butler's pantry and large laundry! Wonderful and versatile floor plan! Call Sally for list of amenities or to schedule appointment.
Nancy Huddleston
Laura Clark
Sally Isom
huddleston@collins-maury.com
laura@lauraclarkrealtor.com
isom@collins-maury.com
901.219.8882
901.483.2117
901.484.9494
4070 Grandview Ave.
584 St. Nick Dr.
9085 Riveredge Dr.
$1,295,000
$727,777
$795,000
Memphis, TN 38111
8100 sq. ft. home w/ 5 beds & 5.5 baths on 1.7 acres. Incredible master suite w/ luxury bath, office, kitchenette, laundry rm & 3 cedar closets. Great floor plan w/ chef’s kitchen, huge pantry, 3 beds down, separate living & dining rms, den, study, playroom & screened porch. Fenced yard includes play court & 40′ gunite pool. Check out the YouTube video & more info at 4070grandview.com.
Memphis, TN 38117
Memphis, TN 38018
Beautiful home built in 2008 on lovely tree-lined street close to schools, shopping and restaurants. Gated for safety and security. 4 or 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 7.1 Dolby media room, living room, dining room, keeping room, 2 fireplaces, open kitchen, office, play and music rooms. Screened in porch and 2 patios. Check out YouTube video.
4 acres, lighted tennis court, salt water pool, 5 car garage. This beautiful custom home is over 7000 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths plus bonus and media room. New master bath with marble and dressing room closets. Call now and enjoy your summer retreat!
Bill Maury
Tim O’Hare
Bill Maury
Jane Hubbard
Milleigh Pearson
maury@collins-maury.com
ohare@collins-maury.com
maury@collins-maury.com
hubbard@collins-maury.com
pearson@collins-maury.com
901.751.4311
901.609.5038
901.751.4311
901.550.1234
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
901.550.1517
Contents May 2017
Features
From the Editor • 8
Signature Memphis • 10
Emily Adams Keplinger
Fair fare - perfect ingredients Bobbi Gillis for festivals Chairman of month-long party
StreetSeen • 34 Miles Tamboli
Planting the seeds of entrepreneurship
StreetSeen • 36 Jana Wilson
Nostalgia is her muse
RSVPhillippi • 49 Out With the New Dennis Phillippi speculates about past generational angst
Events
Andy Seaton and Ruth Minor
Nan Buck and Imeida Lopez
Stacey and Brent Mohair
Gargi Talati and Ajay Talati
Brooks Uncorked • 12
Memphis Moments • 18, 20, 22, 24, 28, 36, 42, 43, 44, 46 & 47
FedExFamilyHouse Gala • 30
ONE Night Gala • 38
A Disco Ball
Cover Photo
Mike and Maria Norvell at FedExFamilyHouse Gala Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo
Cat Peña's Edge District installation "There's More To Be Proud Of" Photo by Krista Geyer
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Support for a home away from home
Powerful philanthropy for Regional One Health Foundation
Volume XXII • Number V
May 2017 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Suzanne Thompson Cozza 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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From the Editor
May
S
STYLE IN STORE
pring is in the air, and so are the delicious aromas of “fair food.” From the spicy Cajun seasoning used to flavor mountains of crawfish to the tanginess of sauces that will make you crow over wings to the quintessential Memphis scent of barbecue, festivals and fairs are taking turns tantalizing your taste buds. What would these events be without their signature cuisines? The fact is, many of these festivals are named for their culinary delights. We’ve already had at least three crawfish festivals this spring, a new-to-town Vintage 901 Festival, the Binghamton-based Kaleidoscope Food Festival, a Memphis Brewfest, a Memphis Veg Fest, and the 15th annual Southern Hot Wing Festival. Perennial favorites on tap for May include the Memphis Greek Fest and the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. In mid-May, the Midsouth Food Truck Festival is slated to fill the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium with one of the largest assortments of food trucks to convene in one location. Also, in June the Italian Festival and the Margarita Festival will come to town. In addition to the chance to munch on some fantastic chow, these festivals offer a showcase for something else that is continuing to put Memphis on the map — our local chefs and their outstanding culinary talents. With live music from local talent in the mix, it all adds up to plenty of options for family fun. And for a true salute to all things Memphis, head down to Tom Lee Park at the end of the month for the 901Fest. As this year’s Memphis in May International Festival comes to a close, there will be a one-day festival incorporating live local entertainment on multiple stages, local area artists, local food and beverages, an airshow, and a 901-themed Fireworks Finale. Mark your calendars now and plan to sample some of what makes Memphis such a great place— there’s sure to be something to suit your taste!
THIS MONTH AT SADDLE CREEK
MAY 14TH Celebrate Mom with a gift as unique as she is. You’ll find great gift ideas at our unbeatable collection of merchants and restaurants.
OPENING IN MAY SEE Eyewear & Sur La Table 901-753-4484
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Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
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May
Bobbi Gillis
Chairman of the Memphis in May Board of Directors Your Lucky Charm: My husband, Jerry Gillis Who Would Play You
in a
Movie: Sally Field
Your Most Annoying Habit: Leaving my shoes all over the house The Highlight
of
Your Day: My morning coffee, newspaper and crossword
Your Best Quality: Tenacity — I don’t give up easily on anything or anyone I care about. Best Thing About Working
for a
Nonprofit: It is a great opportunity to make a
difference.
Hometown: Rockford, Illinois, but I have lived in Memphis 48 years so Memphis is definitely home for me.
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Memphis Music. It is probably the thing that kept me here in my early years, but a close second would be the people of Memphis and their wonderful hospitality.
One Goal You’d Still Like
to
Accomplish: Travel, Travel and more Travel. I
especially want to share my love of travel and seeing the many beautiful wonders of our world with my grandchildren.
Best Memphis Hangout: My own patio with a glass of wine and watching the Mississippi River – but really any place Downtown. There is so much going on and so many fun things to do. I really LOVE everything about Downtown Memphis.
What
you would like people to know about your organization:
Photo by Steve Roberts
We truly are an important part of this city’s brand. For 41 years, we have been known as the Biggest Month-Long Party on the Planet, but we are so much more. Last year, in 30 days we created an $88 million economic impact for our Downtown, put $2.8 million in taxes into the city coffers, created 207 jobs, and enlisted the help of 916 volunteers who religiously help make the festival come together every year. Additionally, we touched 24,000 students with our World Cargo Crates, and 51,000 students in 300 schools participated in our educational and cultural programs, as well as our Student Exchange Program for Memphis High School Students to visit the honored country and their students come to Memphis. And all this is done without city and county government funding. Memphis in May is a major asset in this community—as well as a FUN MONTH-LONG PARTY.
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Brooks Uncorked
May
Brooks Uncorked
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Amy Foote and Diane Barzizza
Courtney and Bryan Smith
Alex and Lindsay Boggan
bout 400 guests had a ball at Brooks Uncorked, part of the Memphis Food + Wine series, the largest annual fundraiser for Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, this year celebrating its 25th anniversary. Guests entered “A Disco Ball” to a warm welcome at the door, and then stopped to pick up special tasting glasses. The etched glasses were surrounded by cards filled with stick-on decorations, so guests could decorate their glasses with bedazzling beads. Some attendees went all out for the disco theme, dressing in polyester prints that were as loud as the music deejays pumped through the museum. Some ladies wore bell bottom jeans, jumpsuits in psychedelic colors or paisley dresses and platform shoes. Not to let the ladies have all the fashion fun, men got into the act wearing plaid polyester pants, shiny shirts and sports coats with wide, pointed lapels. As guests enjoyed wine, they perused silent auction items including services from Jill Hertz Interior Design and Ashley Long Party Planning, Ballet Memphis Nutcracker tickets, jewelry, restaurant gift certificates, wine packages and of course, art. The event, chaired by Mark and Annabeth Parker along with Suzanne and Jon Scharff, featured wine stations set up around the rotunda, as well as in the Terrace Room. Wines were provided by Buster’s Liquors, Justin and Landmark, Robert Turner, See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Debbie and Barry Marshall
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A Disco Ball
May 2017
Terra Valentine, and Priest Ranch. Beer on tap from Blackberry Farm Brewery was also available, and Artist Vodka had specialty cocktails in the Café. Bistro Tables covered with silver sequined tablecloths were scattered around the rotunda, and seating was available in the Terrace Room. Naturally, there were plenty of good eats as well, as popular local eateries dished out individual servings of their fare. Capital Grille served beef medallions topped with butter-poached lobster, Babalou offered chicken skewers served with Caribbean rice and beans. South of Beale doled out servings of pork tenderloin served with a deepfried macaroni and cheese ball. The Peabody’s table featured three dishes, English pea soup, cauliflower panna cotta and a berry dessert parfait. Chef Julio from Maximo’s on Broad prepared lamb sate with chickpeas and Brussel sprouts. Other participating restaurants included Mulan Asian Bistro, Interim, Rizzo’s, Half Shell and Zaka Bowl. Funds raised through this event allow access to the arts for children and adults throughout the Mid-South. The Food + Wine series has generated about $4 million in net revenue for the Brooks, supporting educational programming and community outreach. Some outreach programs include free school tours, home school programs, teacher workshops and community days and free family events which are held four times a year and feature art, music and dance. Story by Suzanne Thompson Cozza Photos by Don Perry
Lindsey Hammond, Elizabeth Kuhlo, Lauren Hill, Kristi Carmichael and Kelly Erb
Juni Ganguli and Laurie Hall
Mark Hickey and Connor Parris
Tom and Constance Conley
Alan and Brooke Balducci
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May
Pamela Hauber and Steve West
Megan and Jon Murdock
Pierce Sullivan and Samantha Tweddell
Samantha and Alex Ransone
Kent and Dana Farmer
Matt Gossett and Katie Clark with Ben and Kim Clark
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Christina Vranich and Jessica Toliuszis
Kobie and Dr. Bianca Sweeten
Wayne and Porsha Parks
Buck Lawson and Lindsay Pate
Gerry and Paula Cocuzzo with Kristina Woo and Judge Mark Ward
May
Elisha and John Vego
Daniel Reid and Alice Higdon
Elena and Richard Travis
Becca Smith and Natalie Stegall
Cheyenne and Mitch Gallagher
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Stephanie Edwards and Erica Dillard
Rafael Ferreras and Cecily Khuner
Anna Karpovich and Oleksandra Dryn
Anthony and Myra Clark
Monique Williams and Kenyon Cook
James Williams and Brittany Cabiago
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Memphis Moment
•
May
Memphis Garden Gala Strengthening Communities Through Real Food
G
uests turned out in their Mardi Gras best for the inaugural Memphis Garden Gala at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park. At this themed masquerade party, strands of colorful beads suspended across the ceiling and floral centerpieces by Garden District featuring pale yellow tulips, white and green hydrangeas, and purple-toned wax flowers, carried out the traditional colors of Mardi Gras celebrations. The evening began with cocktails, catered appetizers from Simply Delicious Catering, and music by The Mighty Souls Brass Band. Dinner was prepared by chefs Dennis Phelps, Steven Howell, Patrick Reilly, David Krag and Franck Oysel, and served family style, starting with Learning Garden Salad followed by crab, shrimp and andouille gumbo, barbecue shrimp and grits, and roasted beef tenderloin with vegetables. Golden raisin bread pudding with caramel sauce offered a sweet finish. Auctioneer Letitia Frye led the evening’s live auction with exclusive offerings of dinner at Next Door Crosstown, a Paella Party for 60, vacation getaways in Colorado and Los Cabos, and dinner with All-Star Memphis Grizzlies Marc Gasol. The event was a fundraiser for The Kitchen Community, supporting their work of building learning gardens in schools. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Patrick Hendricks and Kontji Anthony-Hendricks
Philip Gattas and Natalie Chamoun
Paul Chandler and Josh Hammond
Jaime Wilson and Leigh Richardson
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Scott Ellis and Lindsey Hammond
Colby and Alex Hall
Pierre and Gay Landaiche
Teri and Brad Trotter
David and Bonnie Thornton with RD and Vicki Singh
Christie McGee and Debra Connor
Katie Smythe and Jena Miller
Janet Lo, Mark Geller and Rebecca Geller
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May
Taste of CBHS Highlighting Local Vendors and Brotherly Ties
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night of food and fun was enjoyed by CBHS alumni, teachers, students and friends who gathered in support of the sixth annual A Taste of CBHS fundraiser. Tasting stations were provided by more than three dozen local vendors, including Affordable Catering, Automatic Slim’s, Blind Bear Speakeasy, Buster’s Liquors, Coletta’s, Ecco on Overton Park, Garibaldi’s Pizzas, Grisanti’s Restaurant, The Half Shell, Hog Wild, Huey’s Restaurants, Lucchesi’s Ravioli and Pasta Co., Old Dominick Distillery, The Dirty Crow Inn, and Wiseacre Brewery. The event also included a wine pull and personalized CBHS stemware. A silent auction containing some 50 items also boosted the amount of funds raised by the event. “New to this year’s event was ‘A Taste of the Arts,’ featuring music by our Walnut Groove Jazz Band, individual vocal performances, and theatrical showcases,” said John Morris, director of Marketing and Communications for CBHS. “Though proceeds from the event help all CBHS students, the money is earmarked for use in a specific area of study—the arts department of CBHS.”
Catherine Duncan and Larkin Grisanti with Natasha and Bill Sublette
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Barbara and Chuck Strong with David Strong and Russ Hays
Connor Schratz and Michael Scully
Frank McGrew and Lindsey Hammond
Morgan Hammond, Nick Longsworth and Stephanie Wright
Becky Ehrlicher, Brother David Poos and John Morris
Jay and Maureen Myers with Alexis and Jordan Myers
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Brother Tom Sullivan and Brother Matthew Kotek
Donnie and Jill Rogers with Colleen and Clay Rogers
Tom Hudson with Colin and Libra Burress
Cindy Werner, Phillip Werner, Jessica Stevens and Steve Werner
Memphis Moment
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Red Shoe Gala Benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Memphis
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t was a beautiful springtime afternoon at the new FedEx Event Center, lakeside at Shelby Farms, for the 2017 Red Shoe Gala to benefit Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. Guests were ushered into a special carpeted tent for the cocktail reception sponsored by Laurelwood Shopping Center, where Paradox Catering and Consulting passed around plates of mouth-watering goodies like Savory Meatballs, Spanish Tacos, and Pork Tenderloin on Bruschetta, as guests mingled and browsed items in the silent auction. Treasures included tickets to The Sound of Music at The Orpheum, a Destin Florida vacation package, and a two-hour flight lesson. Dinner in the ballroom began at 7 to the soulful sounds of Ashton Riker, followed by the live auction and then back to the party tent to groove to Memphis Soul Revue. The Red Show Gala was a sold out event, attended by more than 500 guests. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister Kristin and Josh Canfield
Keith Shelton and Heather Acton
Elizabeth Coldiron and Amanda Mackey
Michael and Jo Lurry
Courtney Neal with Meg and Cory Prewitt
Fran and Gerald Boling
Angie and Marix Hughes
Erin Dunseath, Mickenzie Seely and McKenna Seely
Alex and Lee Ann Pina
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Samantha and Mark Towne
Landi and Michael Bohner
Marcus, Kennan, and Gia Mashon
Memphis Moment
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May
Carnival Memphis Business & Industry Salute
C
arnival Memphis held its annual awards luncheon at the Memphis Hilton to honor individuals and organizations for their business success and the positive impact they make on the Mid-South community. In recognition of Carnival Memphis King Edward Dobbs’ position as a co-owner of the Memphis Grizzlies franchise, the 2017 Business & Industry Salute honored the Sports Industry. Dobbs is also president of Dobbs Management Services, a private equity investment firm, and Premier Distributing Co., the family’s Anheuser-Busch distributorship in New Mexico. This year’s Business & Industry Salute honored AutoZone Liberty Bowl, FedEx Sports Marketing, Melanie Smith Taylor/Wildwood Farms, the Memphis Redbirds, the Memphis Open/Racquet Club, the University of Memphis and Varsity Brands. The Memphis Grizzlies received the Cook Halle award for distinguishing themselves as leaders in their industry and the Memphis community. Individuals honored for their contributions to the Sports Industry included Phil Cannon, recognized posthumously with The King’s Award; Fred Jones, founder of the Southern Heritage Classic, presented with the President’s Award; and Allie Prescott, recipient of the Chairman’s Award. “Carnival Memphis was founded to promote the commerce of the community and this pledge is even stronger today through the Business & Industry Salute Luncheon,” said Ed Galfsky, executive director of Carnival Memphis. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
John and Lisa Bobango
Pat McWilliams and Patti Russell
Kevin Kane and Danny Collier
Tiffany Brimhall and Michel Allen
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Tara Bodansky and Geoff Calkins
Jeff Cole, Jason Wexler, Ginger Collier and Edward Dobbs
Debbie Marshall and Melissa Kimbrough
May 2017
Floy Cole and Ally Luciano
Stephanie Hathcock and Laurie Smith
Dr. Scott Morris and Ken Hall
Allison Prescott, Stacie Waddell and Terry Reeves
Billy Dunavant and Toof Brown
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Savannah Cantrell
Jeff Burress
Fontaine Brown
Amelia Brown
Steve Bearman
Pam Beall
Jeanne Arthur
Paige Arnold
Helen Akin
MANAGING BROKER
Tom Kimbrough
EAST ME
Benny Carter 2795 Lombardy Avenue $1,195,000 Jeanne Arthur 901-634-2800
50 Sevier Street Robin Fauser
$299,900 901-494-0355
crye-leike.com 585 South Perkins · M
Cheryl Crider
3598 Mimosa Avenue Robin Fauser
$229,900 901-494-0355
194 Lombardy Camille Zanone
$1,100,000 901-497-8271
4503 Charleswood Avenue Camille Zanone
Carol Dupree
Didi Dwyer
Loura Edmondson
6939 Amberly Road Clara Yerger Nick French
Robin Fauser
Barb Frazer
$135,000 901-834-0099 901-356-2810
Nick French
4989 Newhaven Avenue $749,000 Trey Hogue 901-652-3644
Jan Gordon
Walker Hays
1716 Oak Hill Drive Clara Yerger
Trey Hogue
Janie Hopkins
$259,000 901-834-0099
Sylvia Joure
BROKER
Tommie Criswell
Camille Zanone
Clara Yerger
Amy Woods
Adam Williams
Vivian Watson
Michael Varner
Fontaine Taylor
Megan Stout
EMPHIS
Carol O. Stout
Carol K. Stout
901.766.9004 Memphis, TN 38117
3342 Waynoka Drive Joy Kimbrough
$899,900 901-335-5773
1835 Fernspring Cove $152,000 Clara Yerger 901-834-0099
Paula Sternberger
Owner/Agent
$399,900 901-497-8271
390 Woodmere Lane Trey Hogue
$599,000 901-652-3644
6929 Silver Maple Cove Joy Kimbrough
$294,500 901-335-5773
Blake Sternberger
2979 Gardens Way Jeanne Arthur
Joy Kimbrough
$449,000 901-634-2800
Nan Lee
3811 S. Galloway Drive Joy Kimbrough
Toni Martello
Kathryn Anne Matheny
$695,000 901-335-5773
Alice Newton
220 Baronne Place Clara Yerger Nick French
Jeanne Nixon
Jim Pascover
$250,000 901-834-0099 901-356-2810
Suzanne Plyler
Sarah Scoggin
Martha Robertson
Memphis Moment
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May
AIA Design Awards Gala Celebrating Architecture
A
peaceful afternoon and a stunning lakeside sunset provided the backdrop for the 2017 AIA Memphis Celebration of Architecture Gala. Guests were welcomed at the beautiful and spacious foyer of the new FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms, and ushered into the bright and cheerful main room, where Memphis Bar-Ties served up glasses of fine wine and an assortment of cold beers for the cocktail reception and silent auction. Among the many Items up for bid were original creations by students of architecture at the University of Memphis. A spectacular array of food from Another Roadside Attraction was beautifully laid out across tables covered in fine linen. Delicacies included Sautéed Beef with Blackberry BBQ sauce, Oxtail with Orange Zest, Smoked Salmon with Beets, and a huge charcuterie of Prosciutto, Salami, and Pepperoni, complimented by a variety of delicious cheeses. Proceeds benefited the Department of Architecture at the University of Memphis.
Michael Winter with Ryan and Joan Morris
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Jaime Monger and Isaac Barrantes
Micah and Kristi Robinson
Nancy McCown and Sue Skaer
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Jay Adkins and Heather Koury
Lindsey Johnson and Adam Coats
Dustin Langley and Leslie Hathcock
Carolyn and Steve Wills
Mitch Henson and Melissa Morrison
Peggy and James Williamson
Rogean Cadieux-Smith and Jonathan Smith
Phil and Claire Wade
FedExFamilyHouse Gala
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FedExFamilyHouse Gala
G
Jeff and Stephanie Tillotson
Kelsey and Zack Zaharko
Support for a Home Away From Home
uests filled the mezzanine of The Peabody for the FedExFamilyHouse Gala. The evening opened with a cocktail reception and silent auction in the Continental Ballroom. Partygoers moved into the Grand Ballroom for a seated dinner featuring a salad of Romaine lettuce with avocado and hearts of palm, a double entree of petite filet mignon and fillet of salmon, creamy mushroom risotto and grilled fresh asparagus. A variety of sweets and fresh fruit completed the meal. Dinner music was provided by The SoulSations. FedEx Corporation executive vice president and CFO Alan Graf welcomed guests to the seventh annual event and introduced the event’s honorary chairs, NBA Grizzlies General Manager Chris Wallace and his wife, Debby. The event’s celebrity guest was Eli Manning, college football quarterback standout for the University of Mississippi and now quarterback for the New York Giants of the National Football League. A video presentation from Eli brought home the message of the mission of the FedExFamilyHouse as he described his experiences with children treated at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, as well as other hospitals around the country. Ed Coleman made the Volunteer of the Year presentation, recognizing the efforts of Danna Segel. Giving over 200 hours of service a year, for the last three years, Danna has organized the kitchen See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
and the donated pantry items at the FedExFamilyHouse, making life easier for families who travel to Le Bonheur from out of town. During the evening’s live auction, guests bid on items that offered experiences such as a dinner at the home of Dina and Brad Martin with special guest University of Memphis Coach Tubby Smith, as well as dinner for 10 at the home of Susan and Alan Graf with wines from the Grafs’ wine cellar. A getaway to Blackberry Farms, a trip to experience a day at the NASCAR Bristol Motor Speedway and a three-day stay in New York City to experience Hamilton on Broadway were among the other items up for bid. Music by the SoulSations provided dance music in the Grand Ballroom before the party moved to the Late-Night Lounge in the Continental Ballroom for the remainder of the evening. DJ “Space Girl” Janet Wilson kept the crowd on their feet as the fun continued into the wee hours of the morning. FedExFamilyHouse opened its doors in December 2010. Financial support for construction of FedExFamilyHouse came from a $6 million donation from FedEx Corp. and personal donations from Fred Smith, Chairman and CEO, and his wife Diane, and Alan and Susan Graf. Proceeds from this year’s gala will benefit FedExFamilyHouse, a home-away-fromhome for families of patients at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Shannon Parker and Christina Featherston
Dr. Michael and Rebecca Ugwueke
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Taylor and Blake Tyler
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Susan and Alan Graf
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Amy and Joey Dudek
May 2017
Lewis Fort, Tim Dunavant and Marcus Grandberry
Trent and Elizabeth Gullett
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Jeffrey and Courtney Mehr
Russ Wheaton and Paula Strickland
Derek and Misty Cowherd
Alanda Dobbins and Sylvester Tate
Jacob Langston and Lauren Rosado
Tim and Janet Smith with Lori and Steve Jones
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Chris and Christie Johnson
Ruben and Maria Perez
Ashley and Brent Blaschka
Clay Purdom and Rachel Ozols
Misty Arinder with Mitch and Traci Erwin and Jenny Johnson
Miles Tamboli Urban Farming
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
May
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StreetSeen
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n a plot of land in Frayser, Miles Tamboli is sowing seeds of entrepreneurship for teenage girls. The land is the Youth Farm of Girls, Inc. and Miles leads the program as Farm Manager-Operations. The development has taken a while to germinate, with plans for the farm planted in 2014 and the actual ground-breaking taking place in 2015.
“We knew in a broad sense what we wanted to do—grow food, sell it locally and engage young women,” said Miles. “And we also wanted to use food as a platform to teach them entrepreneurship, social justice and civic engagement, as well as have them learn about healthy eating and nutrition.” “As we are starting into our third year, we are no longer looking at what we are going to be, but rather what we are,” continued Miles. “There’s so much more growth for our future, but now we have a clearer understanding of what our trajectory is going to look like. We know what we’re good at and how we can best respond to the community.” Part of gaining that understanding came from the farm’s location, which is in the middle of a neighborhood in Frayser, next to Whitney Elementary School. “Our farm is intentionally not fenced off, because we want to engage with people in our community.” explained Miles. “I probably spend one-third of my day just talking to people who come up to the farm. They see beehives, they see vegetables and they see a dude driving a tractor in the middle of the city. They want to know what’s going on — and how can what we are doing on the farm translate to what they can do at home. In essence, our farm offers live demonstrations that
provide unique resources and inspiration.” While this year will see an increase in the farm’s footprint, from less than an acre to two acres, the group will be limiting the number of crops to those that are most productive. The farm is currently greening up with kale, mustard greens, turnip greens, radishes, turnips, Swiss chard, head lettuces, spring mix, flowers, and different plant seedlings that will be for sale. “Now we have 14 identically sized plots, with one of those being an experimental plot in which the girls can choose specific plants or plant varieties that they think might work on a large scale,” said Miles. “Another thing that has changed since we began in 2015, is that the teenagers involved in the Girls, Inc. program are no longer our only labor source. Now there are weekly volunteer groups who come out to help.” Miles says they expect to have about 15,000 pounds of produce this year — three times what they grew last year, and about 10 times what they grew their first year. Overall, their goal is to sell 80% of their produce in Frayser (as compared to 14% the first year and 45% the second year). This year they expect to sell up to 60-65% percent in their own part of town. Other changes include engaging more girls in the programming. There were only six teens involved in the first year. This year there will be
12 girls in the core program. And there’s been a staffing addition, too. “We now have a Farm Co-Manager, Kelsey Hoffman, who is our Manager of Programs and Outreach,” said Miles. “She moved to Memphis last May and went through that season with us. She is increasing our community engagement with volunteer groups. Additionally, she is leading our increased program efforts by going to schools and actually facilitating farm-to-table and healthy living curriculum with students. At the end of each class, the students take a field trip to our farm where our crew leads the activities. This last component offers responsibility training for our girls.” There’s no doubt that the Girls, Inc. Farm has become a place of peace and learning. Some of the entrepreneurial experiences for the teenagers in the program come from staffing a booth every week, from April to October, at the Memphis Farmers Market. “With the warm weather coming early this year to our area, our crops are ahead of schedule,” said Miles. “We’re looking at some new community partnerships. We’ll be at Curb Market at Crosstown Concourse, and we’re also seeking more ways to expand our presence in Frayser. We’d like to find more vendors so that we can set-up next to them and grow that enterprise into an actual Frayser Farmers Market.”
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Creatively Crafting with Found Treasures Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
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t must have been Jana Wilson’s destiny to become an assemblage artist. A selfprofessed collector of found objects since early childhood, she said she always felt compelled to give those discarded objects a second life.
“When I was about 8 years old, I would sneak my mother’s fingernail polish and paint empty matchboxes and then build scenes inside them with odd objects,” recalled Jana. “And, both of my grandmothers played a role in developing my offbeat creativity. My paternal grandmother taught me how to decoupage and we would cover boxes with velvet fabric and other fabric scraps from her sewing projects, adding broken bits of jewelry and lace or other trim to make ‘treasure boxes.’” Jana continued, “My maternal grandmother would decorate old flower pots with Betsy McCall paper dolls cut from magazines. She lived in a really small town called Friendship, TN — near Dyersburg—where there wasn’t much to do to entertain me. So, that was what we would do when I went to see her over Spring Break and during summer vacation.” Jana also remembers making houses and furniture for her Barbie dolls. “Now my own house is decorated with funky art and furniture that I’ve repurposed,” said Jana. “And those covered boxes from childhood have evolved into what I call ‘Found Treasure Art’ filled with an assortment of items that typically share a theme.” Although Jana has been creatively crafting items for years, it wasn’t until recently that she participated in an actual art show. “I participated in a show at Crosstown Arts
titled ‘Belongings’ that was held in conjunction with the Cleveland Street Flea Market,” explained Jana. “Participants had to buy an item at the flea market, then create a piece of art inspired by that object. I’ve been in that show twice, and as an offshoot, I’ve now done a couple of other shows at Crosstown Arts and Marshall Arts. Also, I’ll be participating at the Southern Junkers Vintage Market at the Agricenter, May 5 and 6” (first solo show at Found on Broad Ave. last July). When asked about the source of materials for her artwork, Jana replied, “People know the kind of art I create and they bring me bits and pieces, sometimes boxes full, of trinkets—everything from broken eyeglasses to broken jewelry, bits of metal and chains and lots of broken dolls, headless, they are “damaged” which gives them personality, like each of us. That’s where much of the personality of my art comes from. They also bring me things to use as frames, such as wooden crate lids and cigar boxes.” “The stuff I collect can start to overrun my house, so I regularly participate in shows like the Southern Junkers Vintage Market so I can sell some of the artwork I make that features vintage items.” A good deal of Jana’s time is now spent sorting the stuff she has amassed until she has enough to assemble into one of her artworks. “I make reliquaries, which have religious items like old prayer cards and Catholic
memorabilia, and themed boxes like ‘circus’ or ‘birthday.’” said Jana. “I make pop culture references by combining something very old, with more modern, kitschy items. I’m not going for somber, sacred impact. My art also involves tongue-incheek references.” Jana said nostalgia is often her muse. “You get a glimpse of bygone days from damaged heirlooms, such as Bible covers and sheet music, that might otherwise be discarded,” explained Jana. “Game pieces from board games are some of my favorite items with which to work. I also like to use paper images for the background, scenes from old postcards or books. The Dick and Jane books are also some of my favorite sources.” So with the photos or book images as a background, Jana begins her creative process. First she selects items from her collection of objects — seashell, crystals, rocks, old baby dolls, and other broken vintage items. Glue epoxy, Mod Podge, nails and paint all become part of her technique. The end result is often a shadow box that is a vignette of repurposed items that have been given a second life and now come together to tell some sort of story. “When I started with Southern Junkers five years ago, I discovered a group of creative people who were like me. Maybe not artists in some people’s sense of the word, but artistic people with the ability to see beyond ‘broken, scuffed and chippy.’ I knew I had found my ‘tribe.’”
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ONE Night Gala
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ONE Night Gala
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Robert and Debbie Wake
Mike and Martha Hess
Brandi and Daryl Gardner
egional One Health Foundation’s ONE Night Gala was held at the Cook Convention Center to benefit the only trauma center in the region. Approximately 920 people attended the event, which is billed as “the hottest ticket in town,” said Mary Catherine Burke, manager of events and public engagement for Regional One Health Foundation. This year was the second year the foundation held a pledge event during the gala, and the pledges alone that evening raised $141,000—that’s not including ticket costs and sponsorships. Funds raised will go toward enhancing the technology in the hospital’s operating rooms, Burke said. The hospital performs more than 8,700 surgeries a year. The new technology will allow doctors to communicate directly with family members, use voice activation to adjust the intensity of the light and vividly display all X-rays and information used to make a proper diagnosis. Regional One’s academic physician group, UT Regional One Physicians, is the largest teaching physician group in the Mid-South. The event kicked off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour in the Ballroom Foyer, and for approximately an hour, guests enjoyed drinks while watching the sunset over the Mississippi River. The emcee for the cocktail hour was Michael Detroit, associate producer/development at Playhouse on the Square. Professional photographers were set up to take photos, and attendees had the chance to play on two oversize tables set up like the game See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Rachel and Scott Bendure
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“The Hottest Ticket in Town”
May 2017
of Operation to, quite literally, get a feel for what it’s like to be a doctor or staff member in the operating room. During the banquet, a formal program was held during which patients related to guests their stories of survival, thanks to Regional One Health. Several physicians also informed the crowd about how the new technology would help enhance their operating rooms. The Reverend Preston Jefferson of the Regional One Health Foundation Board led the crowd in blessing the food, which included a deconstructed Caesar salad, chicken bistro and a dessert of chocolate mousse served with grilled pineapple and berries. After dinner, the entertainment began. A late night snack was provided by Cigna. Burke said the music kept the crowd dancing until about 11:30 p.m. “Everybody really enjoyed it, we had two bands, Cameo and The Isley Brothers, and people were on the dance floor all night,” she said. Presenting sponsors for the event were FedEx, SunTrust, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust, OR Nurses Nationwide, Radians, Orion and the Arney Scheidt Family Foundation. The entertainment was provided by Southeastern Asset Management (advisor to Longleaf Partner Funds). The cocktail sponsor was MidSouth Transplant Foundation Inc., and pledge sponsor was Valero Energy Foundation. In addition, there were 10 platinum sponsors and multiple gold sponsors. Story and Photos by Rebekah Yearout
William and Claire Mann, David and Rachel Harvey, Jennifer Harvey and Robert Mann
Jodi and Kevin Shaw
Justin and Erica Reed
Tracy and Bob Moore
Kemp and Anne Conrad
krocmemphis.org
Beautiful and lasting memories are as simple as rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our website. If you’re looking for a photo that one of our photographers took at a major social event and is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available through our web address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and remember the password: rsvp. May 2017
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Pam and Ed Petrosso
Darrell S. Catron and Jessica Fitzhugh
Cathay Walker and Chris Mercer
Sabrina Sahib and Thurman Ward
Tammy Golwen, Kim Pitts and Marilyn Seaton
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Suzanne Landrum and Fran Shannon
Mary and Dennis Traywick
Boo Mitchell and Madelyne Gray
Clarance Ross and Aurorah Allain
Jenny and Nick Vergos with Alice Higdon
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Monica Patel and Allison Vance
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Patti and Mick Seys
Chris Anderson, Markova Reed-Anderson and Kenya Hooks
the Truffle Pig
Truffles are rare, prized and treasured. They are a culinary delicacy, and difficult to find. To locate these treasures, you need a truffle pig.
Drs. Shannon and Lloyd Finks
John and Jennifer Presson
The Truffle Pig is a design and lifestyle boutique featuring a well-curated selection of goods. Our store will be home to many local and talented artisans that would love to help you tell your story.
Grand Opening Celeb ration May 11 Soft Op ening May 1
9056 Poplar Pike, suite 101 Germanto wn, TN 38138 901.308.1557
Elkan Scheidt, Mimi Scheidt and Laurie Scheidt
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Memphis Moments
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Bowlin’ On the River Fun to Spare
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here were strikes galore and fun to spare at the 32nd annual Bowlin’ On The River fundraiser. This yearly Bowl-A-Thon brings together 4,000 bowlers over two weekends to benefit Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. We caught up with some of the participating teams at Billy Hardwick’s All Star Lanes at Quince at White Station. It was a lively and festive event with DJ A. O. playing music to bowl by as the competition heated up with free bottles of champagne awarded to strikes made when the yellow pin was out in front. Junior Achievement President and CEO Larry Colbert said “It’s a great way for people to get together and have fun outside of work and raise money for a great cause”. 2017 sponsors included First Tennessee Bank, International Paper, Smith and Nephew, ServiceMaster, and Power & Tel. Thousands are raised each year at this fun event.
Pam Peden and Ryne Stevens
Kara Wakefield and Larry Colbert
Cody Fletcher and Alison Welch
David Lenoir and Kimberly Conner
Michael Wicinski and Mike Walsh
Ray and Betty Spickard
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Leslie Parson, Michelle Woods and Landen Ballard
Jeremy Sea, Linda Houston and Ricky Nelson
Cognac, Cars and Cigars A Night of Luxury
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he warm glow of an afternoon cognac, the rich flavor of a fine cigar, and the exhilarating feel of being behind the wheel of a new luxury automobile. These experiences all came together on the lawn of the Pink Palace mansion for the second annual Cognac, Cars and Cigars fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Mid-South®. Hundreds of sharp dressed guests gathered to indulge in the finer things to support the work of this organization which grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Martell Cognac teamed up with BeLeaf Cigars and Gossett Porsche/Audi to make it all happen. Food was provided by Jim and Samella’s, Monogram Foods, The Sweet Potato Lady, and Who’s Cooking Catering. Partygoers enjoyed music by Carmen Hicks and Will Graves.
Amanda and Garry Pope with Nicole Tucker
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Susan and Michael Klein
Marlita and Michael White
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Miranda Harbor and Nick Burchett
Brandon Dixon and Nelyn Thornton
Darin Smith and Eric Harmon
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Memphis Moment
Phoenix Coronation A Royal Celebration
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t’s well known that Carnival Memphis has its share of characters. At the Phoenix Coronation Ball, some of them took on a new look, taking their cue from this year’s theme “Game of Thrones.” Many party-goers chose to dress like their favorite characters from the show’s noble families from fictional kingdoms. Banners reflecting the names of their “houses,” like Lannister, Stark, Targaryen and others lined the walls of the lobby of the Crescent Center. Even the food, roasted chicken legs and platters of salmon, fit with the theme. The program’s theme song rang out as the royal court was presented. Sean Bonner is this year’s King of Phoenix and will reign with Queen Judith Johnstone. Judith Johnstone and Sean Bonner
Barry and Gaile Burton with Randy Johnson
Richard Hendricks and Greta Coger
Michelle and Todd Brown with Michel Allen
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Amber Roettgen and Ally Luciano
Connie Massey and Rita Nunn
Meet Esmerelda! My name is Esmerelda! I'm a young, affectionate little lady looking for a home where I can have all the cozy snuggles I want. I am a very petite princess with a big purr and an affinity for cuddles. I get along well with other cats and even some dogs! My adoption fee is $95.00 and includes my spay, vaccinations, microchip and negative FIV/FELV test. I recently had a dental too so my teeth are pearly white and in great shape. I am to be an INDOOR ONLY cat and declawing is not allowed.
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Memphis Moments
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Queen Bees Wine and Cheese All Abuzz at Sheffield
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ees are always buzzing in the springtime, and a large colony could be found at Sheffield’s Antique Mall on the night of the Queen Bees Wine and Cheese party. These bees weren’t making honey—they were making money for children’s charities. Former queens of Carnival Memphis krewes, the Queen Bees had much more than wine and cheese at their party. Anita Howald and Tiffany Brimhall co-chaired the event and various members were charged with providing food at tables set up throughout the mall. Guests were treated to piano music by Richard Raichelson, and Glenn Malchow played the guitar in the bar area where margaritas and wine were served. As guests shopped and enjoyed food, they searched for hidden “Queen Bee Cards,” which were redeemed for door prizes at the end of the evening.
Tiffany Brimhall, Anita Howald, C.C. Myers-Brewer and Mary Stewart
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Pam Pittman, Barbara Benstein, Barb Parham and Kathy Bacherig
Julie Eaves and Judith Johnstone
Selina Smith and Chip Trouy
Carolyn Mayo and Ellen Patrick
Kim Flynn, Sharon Fewell and Karen Davis
Mix-Odyssey Spirited Fun
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ith their “passports” in hand, over 200 people turned out to support Volunteer Odyssey’s fourth annual Mix-Odyssey fundraiser held at BRIDGES in Downtown Memphis. Guests made their way around the room for stops at seven stations to sample specialty craft cocktails paired with different appetizers by Gourmade food truck. Memphis Grizzlies DJ Justin Baker provided music for the event, while Lauren Squires Ready served as emcee. This year’s mixologists included Justin Dobbs and Grant Whittle; Vincent Hale of Bari and Dodci and Josh Conley from Etowah Hunt Club; Aaron Hanna of Hog and Hominy; Colby Jones representing Catherine and Mary’s; Dan Price of Proper Cocktails; Andrew Ratts and Matt Lexow; and Cady Smith, from Café Pontotoc. A panel of judges chose “bryter layter,” by Aaron Hanna for second place and “War of the Worlds,” crafted by Colby Jones, as the first place cocktail of the evening. “Eden,” made by Cady Smith, won the People’s Choice award. “Proceeds of the event will be used by our non-profit to further its mission of developing a pathway to volunteering that enriches our lives and communities,” explained Dr. Sarah Petschonek, founder of Volunteer Odyssey. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Maureen McGargill with Lauren and Scott Ready and Michelle and Jeff Squires
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Sara and John Thatcher with Wesley and Michael LaRue
Jason Lee, Lee Ferguson, Verity Goodell and Alexia Cummings
Dedrick Howard and Catherine Taylor
Sarah Petschonek and Amanda Chisholm Welch
Memphis Moments
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Phoenix Karaoke Tuning Up Their Talent
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arnival Memphis crooners and guests packed the Starlight Event Center for Phoenix Karaoke, an annual contest that sparks fierce competition. Richard Hendricks, chairman of Phoenix, introduced the celebrity judges, Marie Pizano, Tom Prestigiacomo and Amy Speropoulos. Phoenix member Amber Roettgen emceed the awards, which included best male and female vocalist, best duet and best group performance. Some people purchased tickets to vote on their favorites for the People’s Choice Awards in the same categories. The judges and the audience agreed on the top female soloist, Sharon Fewell, who sang “Walkin’ in Memphis.” Ken Zimmerman took the judges’ honor for male soloist, while the crowd picked Joe Krolich. Judges selected the Gerry Ward and Mary Lee Rice duet as winners, but audience’s favorite was Carmen and John Vincent. The judges named Ptah the group winner, while the People’s Choice Award went to Memphi.
LaMora Simpson and Charles Humphreys
Judith Johnstone and Sean Bonner
Ally Luciano and Connie Massey
Charlie Smithers and Sara Van Dyke
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Chuck and Mary Stewart with Ed Galfsky
Tom Prestigiacomo and Amy Speropoulos
Spring Fling Annual Memphis Area Master Gardeners Event
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ust as the weather turned warmer Memphis Area Master Gardeners showed off their green thumbs at their Spring Fling Garden Show and Plant Sale. The event was held at the Big Red Barn at the Agricenter and judging by the crowds, people were ready to start thinking about the gardening season. The two-day event offered more than 2,000 plants and bulbs, as well as educational seminars from regional and local experts and hands-on instruction. Topics this year included healthy organic gardening methods, cooking with herbs, butterfly gardens, terrariums, and backyard chickens. Artisanal crafts and foods were available for purchase, along with garden-related accessories. There was even a mini flea market called “Garden Jumble” that offered gently used garden tools, implements and art. Memphis Area Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who help the local Extension Service share gardening information with the community. Memphis Area Master Gardeners also provide services for many community and civic organizations including Dixon Gallery and Gardens, Lichterman Nature Center, and Memphis Botanic Garden. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund the Master Gardener program. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Mary-Lee Hood and Shannon Hammers Malinda McDaniel and Nancy Turchick Amanda Johnson and Wendy Robson
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Linda Taylor, Laura Edwards and Barbara Jones
Bill Ferrell, Sandy Tucker and Paul Little
Mike and Diane Nocks
Mary Helen Butler and Chris Miller
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Ptolemy Coronation Good Friends, Great Times
I Maggie Johnson and Danielle Miro
Sara Rogers and Mayor Mark Luttrell
t was standing room only at The University Club the night of the Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation Ball. Youngest of the Carnival Memphis krewes in both years of existence and the average age of its members, Ptolemy always hosts the final coronation ball of the season. The 2016 King and Queen, Stephen Cruzen and Rachael Simmons, bid the crowd adieu, and Chairman Sara Rogers announced the 2017 court. Following the presentation of the flagman and five duchesses, King Joseph Gordon and Queen Mary Alice West took their thrones. County Mayor Mark Luttrell then addressed the crowd. “You don’t just party with a purpose. You party with a purpose for our community.” Guests enjoyed a light buffet of chicken and waffles, sandwiches and chips and dip. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Al Owings and Nancy Imre
Rachael Simmons and Stephen Cruzen
King Joseph Gordon and Queen Mary Alice West
Michael Davis, Beth Bomarito and Allyson Colyar
Memphis Symphony League Music in the Air Luncheon
M Jane Mims, Eula Horrell and Carol Klein
embers of the Memphis Symphony League and their guests gathered at the Memphis Country Club for their annual luncheon. Table centerpieces featuring pastel tulips set a springtime note for the occasion. The group dined on salmon steaks with couscous salad and fresh asparagus. Desserts of lemon blackberry tarts, chocolate brownies and miniature red velvet cupcakes offered a sweet ending to the meal. Lawrence Edwards, artistic director of the Memphis Symphony Chorus served as the Master of Ceremonies and Conductor Robert Moody was the featured keynote speaker. Moody charmed the group with tales of his musical background, from growing up in Possum Kingdom, South Carolina where a classmate signed him up for Strings Ensemble to serving as the Principal Conductor for the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Musical entertainment was provided by MSO pianist Adrienne Park, as well as MSO Woodwind Quintet musicians Andre Dyachenko, Delara Hashemi, Robert Patterson, Joseph Salvalaggio and Michael Scott. Marsha McKee Evans was the recipient of the 2017 Hebe Award. The award is presented annually to a person who is distinguished by outstanding and significant contributions, performance, and service to the arts. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Elizabeth Houston with Chuck and Scottie Cobb
Virginia McLean and Jessica Robinson
Rhonda Causie and Betty Weiss
Lura Turner and Donna Flinn
Robert Moody and Gayle Rose
May 2017
Mayor Jim Strickland and Marsha McKee Evans
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Crossword
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RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS 1 Cooking measurement 4 Move gently 8 Social event 14 Expression of surprise 15 Georgia ____(Yellow Jackets' Univ.) 16 Shortening brand 17 Golfer's goal
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18 Military barnch 19 Bolted 20 Publication issue 22 Exclamation of disgust 23 Fly high 24 School orgs. 27 Lazy ____ (turn table) 31 Hold it there! 33 Rate of speed, in the UK 35 In the past 36 Large beverage container 38 Exists 39 Mined metals 40 Took as one's own 44 Language of Ashkenazic Jews 46 May, Cod or Ann 47 Curve 49 Whiskey or grain 50 Dined 51 Eminem's genre 52 Cable sports channel 55 Capital of Bangladesh 58 Jetty (variation) 61 Injection 63 Flurry 65 White Danish cheese 67 Pilot Earhart 70 One of Columbus' ships 71 Afflict 72 Finn's pal 73 Against
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74 Turf 75 Network 76 Aim 77 Memphis to Nashville dir.
DOWN 1 Cassettes, i.e. 2 Shade 3 Outcast 4 Decorative needle case 5 Fable writer 6 Sparse 7 Maximum radio signal band, briefly 8 Org. concerned with citizens' rights 9 Toads' cousins 10 Sheer, triangular scarf 11 Beg 12 Winter driving hazard 13 Pole 21 Theater company 25 Letters signifying an alias 26 Vigorous 28 Indian dress 29 Gets older 30 Eat 32 Type of mueum 34 Inheritor 37 Approach 39 City in the former USSR 40 School (abbr.) 41 Input 42 Org. of oil rich nations
43 Sketch 45 Hair colrant 48 Professional tax preparer 53 Brief expression 54 Idea 56 Sepals of a flower 57 Farewell, in Nice 59 Large african animal, for short 60 Soft drink brand 62 Name of 64 Rowers' needs 66 Popular ski resort 67 Poisonous snake 68 Bad beginning? 69 Ram's mate 70 Nettle
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RSVPhillippi
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here are some phrases you never expect to hear an actual human being utter out loud. For instance I would be surprised to hear an old guy yelling at some kids to “Get off my lawn.” No woman would react positively to a man asking; “What’s your sign?” So, you can imagine my dismay By Dennis Phillippi when recently at dinner a man a few years older than me said, “These kids today” and then proceeded to go on an extended rant on young people being overly attached to their electronic devices. That is what he called them: “electronic devices.” Not “phones and tablets” but “electronic devices” like they’re so alien and inhuman that this man could not conceive of their exotic appeal. Reliance on connectivity isn’t really the point here. The point is that from the very beginning of mankind there has been, and apparently always will be, a fundamental derision felt for whatever the next generation venerates. There must’ve been a time when elder early humans looked down from the safety of their tree at their descendents on the ground with nothing but contempt. “Look at them down there. Walking all erect like that. There are lions down there. And maybe dinosaurs.” The education system wasn’t great back then. Still, they surely thought their kids were being reckless and irresponsible. The trees were perfectly adequate places to live, even if sleeping in them and falling out of them probably went hand in hairy hand. I have no doubt that there was a lot of push back on the whole fire thing, too. Yes, it provided warmth and a way to cook meat, but it also was why Grog had no eyebrows on that huge forehead of his. This at a time when people were just accepting that there might be a better way to communicate than grunts and stick throwing. Imagine how older people reacted when someone came up with the idea of domesticating animals. “So, what, the dog and pig are going to live with us? What’s next? Growing our own food?” Forget trying to explain to those who came before the point of the wheel. “What, it rolls? Super. So does my Uncle Karok, you don’t see me trying to carry crops around on him. Next thing you know that’s all anyone will be doing. Rolling things. Kids. Eh.” Around 3000 BC the Sumerians somehow stumbled onto the idea of money instead of the barter system. Trust me, that someone was young and I have no doubt it was not well received. “Let me be clear on this, I’m going to give you
this cow. This handsome well-fed cow. And in return you’re going to give me that little piece of metal. My wife will be thrilled when I bring this home. Her first question, after she throws some clay pots at me for archeologists to find, will be how is she supposed to cook it. You know how we fear change.” It was the same Sumerians who a century or so later scribbled up the idea of a written language, thus throwing out of work an entire industry of people whose sole purpose had been to remember things. A once proud profes-
Naturally, and you know I can’t pass on the pun, electricity must’ve come as quite a shock. Suddenly energy could be invisibly transported through cables to kill you. sion that had preserved and handed down all of history was reduced to being crackpots shouting on street corners. They may have held on for a little while, but the advertising ducats had to have dried up pretty quickly. I’m certain that the oral historians weren’t the only ones vocal about this. “Why would I want everything written down somewhere? There are things I don’t want people to know about. Now that there are actually books it’s going to be a lot more difficult to cook them. Plus, this means people thousands of years from now will know everything, including
that we couldn’t come up with a better name than Sumerians. It’s bad enough we’re leaving all these pottery shards all over the place.” It was still centuries before someone in China created paper to write things down on. “So now we just throw out all these clay tablets? I love my tablet. I can’t function without my tablet.” This is widely believed to be the first instance where someone asked; “Why does China make everything?” At least they had something to write it on. Maybe this is how Fox News was born. Naturally, and you know I can’t pass on the pun, electricity must’ve come as quite a shock. Suddenly energy could be invisibly transported through cables to kill you. Considering that electricity sparked into existence a century before the light bulb, it might’ve seemed kind of pointless. And boy oh boy, just imagine the hubbub when the light bulb did show up. “Good bye candles. Goodbye firelight. You know how many generations that candelabra has been in my family? What are we going to do with it now? Liberace won’t even be born for another hundred years.” A candle you could understand. Light a match. Make fire. A light bulb on the other hand, was some kind of weird magic cooked up by a guy in New Jersey. Do you really trust people from New Jersey? It doesn’t matter what it was, the previous generation was probably having none of it. “Automobiles? What does that even mean? I have a perfectly good horse and you know what I put in his tank? Grass, hay, maybe some leftovers, and in return he pulls me around and makes fertilizer. We’re very green on our dirt farm.” “Radio? Who wants that? Some strangers, probably Yankees, shouting in my living room? That’s what we have spinsters and harpsichords for.” “Aeroplanes? This is getting ridiculous. If man were meant to fly he’d have confirmed reservations.” “Television? Fantastic. Now we can have more strangers shouting at us. Mark my words, sooner or later they’re going to show men and women kissing.” Innovation comes from the young. Resistance comes from the old. Been that way since we lived in trees.
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1981
n 1981, local artist Mary Sims designed the official poster for Memphis in May when the honored country was Egypt. She is shown here presenting her design to the crowd at the official poster unveiling at The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of The Memphis & Shelby County Room Photograph Collection 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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