StreetSeens Big Brothers Blues Science Steve Cantor of Big Sisters on the Bluff Wine Jenean Morrison Sportsball
9181 Forest Estates Cove
11777 Macon Road
$875,000
$774,000
Germantown, TN 38139
Eads, TN 38028
Classic 5 bedroom 4.5 bath home with 4 car garage and circular drive located off Forest Hill-Irene in a quiet cove. This spacious home is perfect for entertaining with an outdoor kitchen, pool and hot tub, fire pit with built-in seating and year-round sunroom. Kitchen features include gas cook-top, granite counters, stainless steel Kitchen-Aid appliance package and built-in refrigerator. Beautiful hardwood flooring, master bedroom downstairs and upstairs and plantation shutters throughout home. Freshly painted interior and exterior – Call today for your private showing!
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 with gorgeous water fountain and stocked with tilapia, bass and bream. Fenced pasture and stall. Professionally landscaped. 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.
Nancy Huddleston
Laura Clark
901.484.9494 huddleston@collins-maury.com
901.483.2117 laura@lauraclarkrealtor.com
4515 Walnut Grove Rd.
5300 Raleigh Lagrange
$795,000
$1,950,000
Fayette County, TN 38017
Memphis, TN 38117
This beautiful, renovated/updated 5 bedroom 4 1/2 bath home with in-law wing and lovely gunite pool is situated on 2 separate lots totaling 1.4 acres! 3 bedrooms down, den, dining room, living room, sun room, media room, play room, gourmet kitchen with 6 burner gas stove, granite and stainless steel appliances. 4 car heated/cooled garage. Plenty of off street parking with a drive off Walnut Grove and Grove Park. Check out TRUE video on YouTube.
Custom built home situated on 80 beautiful acres. Completely fenced, has cleared spaces and plenty of wooded areas. A great place to hunt or fish in the 1.5 acre stocked lake or a great property to develop and build more homes! The home features all hard wood flooring up and down, 3 bedrooms, huge playroom and an office. Very open floor plan, a beamed great room with large oversized fire place open to the kitchen. A covered patio with fireplace on rear. Room to garage 4 cars and extra parking area. Energy efficient with top of the line HVAC. Low county taxes just inside the Fayette County line.
Barbara Weir
Bill Maury
901.412.7489 weir@collins-maury.com
901.751.4311 maury@collins-maury.com
Collins-Maury.com
5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
Contents September 2016
Features
From the Editor • 8 Signature Memphis • 10 Cynthia Ham
President and CEO of Bridges, shares some of her favorite things and goals for the organization.
StreetSeen • 20
Steve Cantor
The local software developer is relishing his new role as the face of Memfizz, the locally made probiotic soda.
Events
StreetSeen • 24
Jenean Morrison
The designer of this year’s Cooper Young Festival poster is also a best-selling coloring book artist.
RSVPhillippi • 49
Boomerang Kids
In this month’s column, Phillippi offers his opinions of twenty-somethings.
Rose and Jason Heckendorf
Big Brothers Big Sisters hosted another sold out night of games for grownups and futures for kids at Minglewood Hall.
Dan and Catelin Springer
Memphis Moments • 22, 23, 28, 29, 36, 38, 39, 40, 41, 46 & 47
Marsha Baskin and Kim Shields
Blues on the Bluff • 30
Memphians gathered at the National Ornamental Metal Museum for 89.9 WEVL’s annual fundraiser.
Cover Photo Chris Jenkins and Stefani Anglikin at Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball Photo by Don Perry
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Brad Callicutt and Leslie Hause
Science of Wine • 42
The Pink Palace opened its doors for a night of tasting and learning about the process of wine making. Photo by Krista Geyer
Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball • 12
Volume XXI • Number IX
September 2016 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Bailey Heldmar Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Suzanne Thompson Cozza Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Art Director Krista Geyer Photographers Patrick Lantrip Don Perry Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Robin Morgan Accounting Ruth Cassin RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to:
Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact:
Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax: (901) 276-7785 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 2016 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.
Robin Morgan
Account Executive Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious, and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girlfriends. Robin’s “bright spot” is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!
We’ll make your golden years shine
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.
Gated Community Located in Midtown Memphis in the Historic Evergreen District with Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments
Grand Living in Midtown Kara Holston
Executive Director
1550 North Parkway | Memphis, TN 38112 | 901.726.4881 | theglenmary.com
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From the Editor
September
A
s I’m writing this, it has been a rather dreary week in Memphis. But, the rain has brought cooler temperatures, which are a reminder that Fall is just around the corner. Without a doubt, Memphis is at its best in the Fall. Perfect temperatures make enjoying our outdoor spaces much more appealing, we have football to distract us for the 6 weeks until basketball season starts and, of course, there’s Cooper Young Festival. From this issue, you can tell that we are looking forward to the 29th annual festival. Tamara Cook, the Executive Director of the Cooper Young Business Association, told us at the Festival Kick-Off and Poster Unveiling that she thinks this year boasts the best music line-up in the festival’s history. We also met Jenean Morrison, the 2016 poster artist, at the Kick-Off event. Morrison is a best-selling coloring book illustrator and one of our September StreetSeens. We went to her Cooper Young studio to hear about her varied career and inspiration for the poster. You can see her story on page 24. Our second StreetSeen, Steve Cantor, also calls Cooper Young home. The founder of Memfizz met us at Otherlands, the Midtown institution that his wife happens to own, to talk about the new probiotic soda that’s been popping up on shelves across town. Finally, be sure to check out RSVPast for a peek at the corner of Cooper and Young in 1945. This issue also features two longtime Memphis favorites, the Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball and WEVL’s Blues on the Bluff. It was great to see these events continue to be roaring successes thanks to your support and enthusiasm. We’re also excited to feature a newer event, the 2nd Annual Science of Wine event, benefiting the Pink Palace. We had a blast tasting wines and learning about the physics of wine making at the sold-out party. I know this event has a bright future as one of the most anticipated parties in Memphis! In closing, I regret to say that this will be my last issue with RSVP. Thank you all for being so kind and encouraging to me over the past few months. My tenure as editor has been filled with many wonderful opportunities and experiences, but I have accepted a job at Rhodes, my alma mater. You will be seeing the new editor, Ashley Dunn, at your events very soon. I know she will do great things at RSVP. She is fairly new to Memphis, so be sure to give her a warm welcome!
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Bailey Heldmar editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
September
Cynthia Ham President/CEO, BRIDGES; President of the Board, Beale Street Caravan, a syndicated radio show sharing Memphis music world-wide. Hometown: Memphis. Favorite Book: Gone Girl. My Best Quality: Curiosity. Place I Go
Think: My home’s courtyard.
to
Favorite Southern Idiom: “Bless Her Heart.” Favorite Song: Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together.” If I
weren’t a
CEO, I’d
Who Would Play Me
be a in a
___: Dog sitter. Movie: Sally Fields.
Best Memphis Hangout: Memphis Farmers Market. My Favorite Thing
to
Eat
in
Memphis: Mussels at Café 1912.
My First Car: 1963 VW Beetle, which was shared among three siblings. Advice I’d Give My 20-year-old Self: “You don’t know everything.” Favorite Place The Highlight
to
of
Travel: New York—And LA to see our grandchildren.
My Day: Receiving a donation to support Bridge Builders.
My Most Annoying Habit: Correcting others’ English, although I don’t do it as much as I
would like to.
My Dream Dinner Guest(s): My dear mother, who died 17 years ago, and my father, who died 10 years ago.
One Goal I’d Still Like
to
youth-led community change.
Accomplish: Helping BRIDGES become the epicenter for
Proudest Moment of My Life: Uniting the Russian Army Band with the U.S. Navy Band to perform together for the first time in a large-scale 1993 Memphis in May event at the Pyramid. The Best Part
of
My Job: Helping diverse youth in Bridge Builders discover their voices,
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Photo by Steve Roberts
develop empathy and understand one another—something adults throughout the country could use more of, too!
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball
M Chad and Iolantha Beasley
Ed and Ruth Stanton
“Games for Grownups, Futures for Kids”
inglewood Hall was transformed into a casino for the 19th annual Sportsball benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mid South, Inc. Memphians paired their black tie best with tennis shoes for the evening of games and gambling. More than one guest proclaimed that it was their favorite event of the year. Nike, one of Sportsball’s sponsors, gifted a free pair of tennis shoes to everyone who purchased a seat at a table. Horseshoe Casino Tunica donated dealers for the table games and the enormous buffet, which included a build your own taco station, chicken sliders with loaded potato wedges, barbecue nachos, mini strawberry cheesecakes, and brownies. Before the night’s program began, guests could bid on items such as jewelry, signed sports memorabilia and rounds of golf in the silent auction. Partygoers were also given “$15,000” when they arrived for betting at the various casino games. For those who weren’t interested in gambling, there were also arcade games, foosball tables, pool tables, a basketball game and a photo booth. Everyone embraced their inner child for the evening of fun, games, and fundraising. Chairman of the Board George See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Cogswell spoke about the importance of Big Brothers Big Sisters in Memphis. He then introduced Rychetta Watkins as the new CEO of the organization. After a nearly year long search, Watkins stood out as someone who truly embodied the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mid South. After Watkins thanked all the staff and volunteers, co-hosts Eric Hasseltine and Gary Parrish energized the crowd before the live auction. They presented awards to DHL for donating 12,000 backpacks to Big Brothers Big Sisters and Nerium International for raising $20,000 for the organization. The live auction featured a Les Paul Gibson Guitar, a 5-course dinner for 8 at Jack Binion’s Steakhouse in Tunica, a Grizzlies VIP Experience, and a 6.04 carat diamond bracelet donated by Sissy’s Log Cabin. When the auction concluded, guests hit the dance floor to round off the successful event. “Sportsball is a vital piece of our total funding. It helps us to cover a quarter of our operating costs for the year. It’s also a great way for us to spread the word about the ongoing need for volunteers,” said Watkins. This year’s event raised upwards of $130,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mid South. Story by Bailey Heldmar Photos by Don Perry
Eric Hasseltine and Chelsea Chandler
Beth and Cole Forrest
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Corey and Michelle Epps
Claudia and George Cogswell
Claire Rossi and Matt Smith
Marty and Amanda Wood with Kaitlin and Denver Hall
Christian Carpenter and Jeffrey Johnson
Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball
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Adrian Merrill and Deborah Lovins
September
Steve and Brenda Basar
Penney and David Williams
Tamara Irving and LaShaundra Massey
Ron Wong and Pam Kimery
Katie Walsh, Amy Strickland and Bethany McRae
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Larry and Rachel Shipp
Chutney Young and Fatera Herd
Kendall and Jenna Harper
Anna Adair and Colby Newton
Rod and Kristy Marter with Angie and Andy Goble
Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball
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Sheila Coleman, Sharon Maclin and Barbara Wells
Ben and Sara Garner with Shannon and Kyle Binkley
Ashley Harrison and Jessica Toliuszis
Jay and Jackie Forrest
Jamie Dunham and Eric McMahon
Jessica Simmons and Miles Bruggeman
Robyn Steffen, Candace Mooneyham and Karen Ferrera
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David Nall and Heather Swanson
Reginald Webb, Terrance Wilkins and Candice Bonner
Stock Exchange Consignors receive 70% of the sales price, the other 30%helps to support Les Passees Kids on the Block puppet troupe and the Harwood Center
d age Roa 6600 St 34 1 8 3 N t, T Bartlet of the intersection
Upscale Consignment Shop t corner ads) (northwes Whitten Ro and Kirbyof Stage
(901) 377-9
893
Consignment
Through Thursday, October 27 Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 2 pm
Shopping
September through Thursday, October 27 Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm Thursday 10 am to 7 pm Sunday 1 pm to 4 pm Closed Monday
Final Days for Stock Exchange Closed Friday, October 28 Saturday, October 29, 50% off Sunday, October 30, 75% off
For more information, email stockexchangememphis@gmail.com, visit our Facebook page Les Passees Stock Exchange, or go to our website www.LPmemphis.org
Season End
Clearance Sale Furniture Gas Logs Umbrellas Cushions & Selected Grills
3686 Summer Avenue • 458.7541 www.kenrashmemphis.com Hours: Mon-Sat 9-5
Celebrating 45 Years! September 2016
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Sportsball
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Rachel and Kenneth Jackson
September
Claire and Bill Mann
Brooke and Connor Manning
Josh Vanelli and Haley Miles
Greg and Leslie Smith
Pam Cook, Jennifer Roberts and Rachel DeWitt
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Mickey and Brooke Wright
Lindsay Rogers and Caley Spotts
J. Pallme and Jenny Jarvis
Walter and Carolyn Bailey
Landi and Michael Bohner with Rose Heckendorf
Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting September 14, 5:00pm Lice Clinics of America is the only lice clinic featuring the revolutionary AirAllé treatment.This is a FDA cleared medical device that is 99.3% effective in killing the eggs/nits and bugs and is a one time treatment. Our trained technicians apply controlled heat to the head in sections which takes 30 minutes. It is followed with a complete comb out. Parents and children are guaranteed to leave happy.
2182 West Street Germantown, TN 38138
º
901.512.5780
º
www.lcamemphis.com
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Memfizz Steve Cantor gives us the scoop on the Memphis-made probiotic soda Story by Bailey Heldmar Photo by Steve Roberts
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emfizz, the new carbonated probiotic soda you may have seen around town in recent weeks, is the brainchild of Steve Cantor. The third generation Memphian is a software developer by trade, but he is embracing his new role as the founder and face of Memfizz. Cantor first got the idea for Memfizz only a year ago after a conversation with a friend, Marcie Brewster, who is a farmer in Berryvile, AR. “She started making a product out of water kefir and putting it in the bag to all her farmer customers, and they loved it,” said Cantor. “She got to where she was making as much as she could make, and that was it. Karen and I listened to her story one night on the porch, and a few days later I woke up and thought maybe we could take this thing to another level.” He called Brewster, and she loved the idea. Cantor’s wife, Karen Lebovitz, owns Otherlands Coffee Bar, which was the perfect place to test out the new product. Memfizz is made through a double fermentation process that starts with the water kefir grain. “She (the water kefir grain) is what’s called a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast,” explained Cantor. “She lives this kind of harmonic life with herself and eating whatever she can eat.” The water kefir grain is dormant as long as it is
refrigerated. It is only at room temperature that it becomes active and starts looking for sugars to eat. The first, 24-hour fermentation process involves leaving the water kefir grain in a container with water and a variety of sugars, such as figs and lemons. For the second fermentation process, the main body of the water kefir grain is removed. The remaining liquid is bottled, flavored with cranberry, ginger, or lemon, and left at room temperature for another 24-48 hours. After that, Memfizz is refrigerated and ready for drinking. The carbonation is produced naturally during the fermentation process. Memfizz is not your average soda. The probiotics in the fizzy beverage mean that it may have health benefits. “We’re not in the medical field, and we’re trying not to make healthcare claims,” said Cantor. “But most people these days know and understand that probiotics are good for you.” He explained that people’s stomachs are filled with all kinds of bacteria—both good and bad— and problems arise when the bad
outnumber the good. “You can fight these bacteria in one of two ways. You can either kill them or you can overwhelm them,” he continued. “Probiotics goes for the overwhelm them. The bad bacteria just die off because it has no way to reproduce.” Cantor still has responsibilities at his software business, so he has the help of a small team with Memfizz. Longtime friend and chef Lindye Mansfield spends her days making batches of the soda in the kitchen they share with Mollie Fontaine Lounge. A small team at Southern Growth Studios works on marketing, sales, business development, etc. “It’s way, way, way more work than what the four of us can really do,” said Cantor. “We’re growing. It’s a lot, but it’s fun.” Memfizz is made with all organic ingredients and water from the Memphis aquifer. It is non-GMO and vegan. Memfizz is available at Otherlands, Miss Cordelia’s, Curb Market, Joe’s Liquor Store, Muddy’s, Bedrock Market & Café, Mosa Asian Bistro, Ultimate Foods and Dixon Gallery & Gardens.
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Memphis Moment
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September
Brooks Grand Auction Memphis Wine + Food Series Story and Photos by Bailey Heldmar
T
Mikki and Darrell Cobbins
Yuki Namba and Melissa Duong
he Memphis Brooks Museum of Art continued its centennial celebration with the Grand Auction, the third event in the Memphis Wine + Food Series. Wendi and Marc Mihalko and Suzanne Bradley and and Jonathon Scharff are this year’s co-chairs Emily Rice for the series. The event began with a wine tasting and silent auction in the rotunda. Chris Milam provided musical entertainment as guests sipped on selections from this year’s featured vintners, Justin, Chappellet, Rock Wall Wines and Schramsberg. Later, attendees headed toward the elegantly decorated tent for dinner and the live auction. Another Roadside Attraction catered the four-course dinner, which started with a watermelon and French feta salad. The second course was house cured salmon gravlax with orange avocado radish relish, which was followed by heirloom carrots. A spice dusted beef tenderloin completed the meal. The event raised funds for youth educational programs at the Brooks.
Kendall and Jason Maykowski
Debra and Bob Craddock
Emily and Jeff McEvoy
Stewart Smith and Susan Evans
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Buck Lawson, Lindsay Pate, Ralston O’Neill and Matt Cohen
Jenny Ezzell, Annabeth Parker and Lisa Smith
Wendi and Marc Mihalko with Christie Kang
Clay and Keri Chapman
Jennifer and Glenn Elton
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Literatini Literacy Mid-South’s Fifth Annual Fundraiser Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
I
t was straight up fun when over 250 people turned out to support Literacy Mid-South’s fifth annual Literatini event at The Booksellers at Laurelwood. Samples of hand-crafted cocktails and appetizers from Alchemy, Aldo’s Pizza Pies Midtown, Erica Rachal and Automatic Slim’s, Babalu Tacos & Tapas, Cafe Ole, Kristi Poindexter Celtic Crossing, The Grove Grill, Silly Goose and Tuscany Steakhouse kept the crowd circulating among the various stations as local authors Heather Dobbins, Jamey Hatley, and Ashley RoachFreiman gave readings from their works. David Parks, representing Alchemy, mixed up the cocktails that won the People’s Choice award. Meanwhile, Babalu’s Michelle Laverty bested her competition in the Martini Death Match. LMS board member Fred Towler said, “All money raised at Literatini benefits LMS’ Adult Learning Program, which serves more than 500 low-literate Memphians per year. The work done by Literacy Mid-South helps people become more productive citizens, in turn, lifting our entire community.”
Melody Martin, Mary Dickerson and Melissa Whitey
Kevin Dean and Fred Towler
Brandon Valentine and Amy Carney
Angela Bright, Tamara Jones and Jessica Thomas
Katie Kelly, David Parks and Sharon Wheeler
Michael Servantes and Depp Britt
Luis and Lisa Toro
Cora Pitt and Anna Katherine Colomb
Jon Sparks and Maritza Davila
Vernetta Anderson and Knox Shelton
April Hitzfield and Daniel Masters
Caprice Murrell, Jamey Hatley, Lonette Robertson
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Color
Commentator Local artist Jenean Morrison talks coloring books and the Cooper Young Festival Story by Bailey Heldmar Photo by Steve Roberts
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ou’d never guess that the small, lime green building tucked behind Me and Mrs. Jones on Cooper houses the studio of a best-selling coloring book illustrator. Artist Jenean Morrison published her first coloring book in 2012, and it was an immediate succes. Her most popular book, Flower Designs, earned a spot on the Amazon best-seller list for two months in 2015. This month, you’ll see her work all over town on the 2016 Cooper Young Festival poster. Originally from Oklahoma, Morrison came to Memphis for college and never left. Although she majored in Communications at the University of Memphis, she eventually found a passion for graphic design. Morrison explained that after graduating from U of M, she continued working at the restaurant where she’d worked throughout college. “I’d been waiting tables and bartending, and I started working in the office,” she said. “When I was in the office, they let me design fliers for the bands, menus, and things like that. I thought, ‘This is fun work, and I could really do this.’” It was after that epiphany that Morrison attended Memphis College of Art for a few semesters to learn graphic design. She started licensing her art in 2004. “I let the manufacturer use my artwork on the product in exchange for a royalty,” she explained. “I’ve done rugs, stationary kits, a lot gift wrap, and lots of fabrics.” She got the idea to illustrate a coloring book while cleaning out a closet in 2012. “I came across a coloring book I’d had since I was a kid, and it was a design based coloring book, which I’ve always liked better than a story based coloring book,” she said. “I realized I had the skills at that moment to make a coloring a book, and at
that point there weren’t a lot of coloring books on the market.” After doing some research, Morrison decided to publish the book on CreateSpace, Amazon’s selfpublishing platform. Morrison draws the intricate patterns that characterize her coloring books on her iPad. She then sends that art to Adobe Illustrator where she mixes those hand drawn elements with digital content she creates in Illustrator. The result is brilliantly designed coloring books that are perfect for every age. Although coloring books have taken up the majority of her time since the trend took off in 2015, Morrison’s eclectic studio is filled with her other projects, including fabrics and paintings. “I like to work on the computer, but it’s really important that I get off of the computer sometimes,” she noted. “And it’s also fun to do actual crafty things and to get your hands dirty.” When Steve Crump of the Cooper Young Festival Committee asked Morrison to design the poster for this year’s festival, Morrison jumped at the opportunity. “I focused early on on the gingko leaf because I thought that would be so cool, and I
love that yellow color that happens and the way they line Cooper,” she explained. “I also noticed the gazebo down on the corner of Cooper and Young, and I thought that would be really cool— the geometry of that mixed with the organic nature of the gingko leaf.” Morrison was also thrilled to be a part of the legacy of artists who have designed Copper Young Festival posters. She noted that one of the best parts of working in Memphis is the support she has always felt from other artists and Memphis in general, particularly the Cooper Young community. “From the very first time I was trying to sell these little notebooks, Burke’s Book was stocking them. The owners of Burke’s are actually some of the people who bought my very first art,” she said. “I love getting to work in Cooper Young, and I love all the restaurants and the people that are here.”
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September
Dinner on Stage Benefiting the Orpheum Theater Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
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special guests gathered at the magnificent Orpheum Theatre for Dinner On Stage, the annual feast that gives friends of the Orpheum an opportunity to dine on the same historic stage that has hosted some of the most famous actors and artists in the world. This year’s sold out event, sponsored Chris and Tara Ruscitto by Cheryl and William Stegbauer, opened with a champagne reception in the theatre’s grand lobby. Guests were welcomed by Orpheum president and CEO Brett Batterson and mingled to the sound of show tunes, performed by pianist Scott Sturtevant. Pre-dinner tours featured stories of the Orpheum’s history and offered a sneak peek at new renovations that will preserve the grandeur of this important Memphis landmark. Halloran Centre for the Performing Arts founders Anne and Pat Halloran and Grammy Award winning producer Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell were among the dinner’s guests. A Moveable Feast provided the evening’s cuisine.
Al Walston and Jenny Engler
Lorrain, Boo, and Yvonne Mitchell
Ron Jewell and Patrice Curran
Cordell and Tawanda Pirtle
Anne and Pat Halloran
Marti and Neal Ramsey
Tiffany and Ben Nelson
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Aaron and Renee Brame
William and Christian Dodd
September 2016
Grace Turner and Robert Ervin
Cheryl and Bill Stegbauer with Brett and Veronica Batterson
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Memphis Moment
Cocktails for a Cause Benefiting Memphis Area Legal Services Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
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Sheila Cullen and Margaret Barton
Anthony Buonaiuto and Daniela Babulal
ocktails For a Cause, a fundraiser for Memphis Area Legal Services, was held poolside at the home of Kelly and Kathy Fish. Celebrity bartenders, retired Tennessee State Supreme Court Kelly and Justice Janice Holder and Judge Bobby Carter, Kathy Fish served up delightful libations such as the 21st Amendment (cucumber, lime, vodka, ginger beer and Pimm’s) and The Subpoena Duces Tecum (sangria, peach brandy, orange juice, pomegranate, Bacardi 151, and fruit). The bar was also stocked with a variety of wine and beer, as well as lemonade and soda. Hors d’oeuvres included fresh guacamole and tortilla chips, chilled watermelon, and cookies. There was a silent auction featuring original paintings by artist Ken Lecco, and tickets for the upcoming Justice For All Ball were available for purchase. More than 100 guests attended Cocktails For a Cause, and fun was had by all. The evening’s festivities raised over $9,000 for Memphis Area Legal Services.
Sandra and Judge Ron Lucchesi
Linda Seely and Harrison McIver III
Danny Babulal and Marlinee Iverson
Kaitlin Thackery and Harvey Middleton
Stacey Greenberg and Yo Herve
Judge Bobby Carter and Max Maloney
Sarla Nichols, Jimmy Lewis and Margot McNeeley
Scot Bearup and Pearson Allen
Diane Thornton and Bruce Bui
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Blues on the Bluff
September
Blues on the Bluff
F Al Newberry and Young Sil
Brenna Owen and Chris Carlile
Benefiting 89.9 WEVL
riends and fans of 89.9 WEVL gathered by the hundreds on the beautiful and historic grounds of the National Ornamental Metal Museum for the 28th annual Blues on the Bluff. The celebration of music, food, and fun benefits this wonderful and eclectic Memphis radio station. The usually sweltering dog day afternoon weather was delightfully cooled by a welcome cloud cover as people set up their chairs, blankets, and lounges in front of the stage for an evening of groovin’ and dancing to music from some of Memphis’ hottest bands. The party got started at 6 p.m. as Memphis singer-songwriter, and host of WEVL’s Car Tunes, Nancy Apple brought on the Maitre D’s, Memphis’ only Booker T and the MG’s cover band. With the breathtaking vista of the mighty Mississippi as a backdrop, Blues on the Bluff partygoers enjoyed libations including wine, soft drinks and beers from Schlafly, including their Summer Lager, Grapefruit IPA, and Yakima Wheat Ale. There was plenty of great food to enjoy as well from Food Geek, who had their food truck up and smoking with delights such as the Texasian Smoked Brisket, the Chipotle Ranch Potato Salad, BBQ See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Po Boys, authentic Mexican Tacos and melt in your mouth Cuban Sandwiches. The premier fundraiser for WEVL, this year’s Blues on the Bluff featured a silent auction with an enormous selection of cool and oneof-a-kind items up for grabs. Guests put in bids for beautiful and unusual jewelry from Southwest Designs and Jan Shivley. Memphis themed T-shirts featuring Jerry’s Sno Cones, Shangri-La Records, and Joe’s Liquors were on the big table, as well as gift certificates for Kroger, Central BBQ, GPAC, The Peabody Hotel, Napa Café, and 2 new bikes from The Peddler Bike Shop. There was unique artwork including an original Lamar Sorrento painting, “Cannon’s Jug Stompers,” and an authentic 1896 map of the Mississippi River. As night settled in, guests mingled with their favorite WEVL personalities and enjoyed music from the dynamic Bo Keys and the Gary Burnside Band. Talented artist Anthony Biggers was on hand with both new and classic Blues on The Bluff posters. Blues on the Bluff 2016 rocked on until 11 p.m. and was truly a night to remember. Sponsors included AutoZone, Peddler Bike Shop, and Schlafly Beer. Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Stephanie Godfrey
Catherine Jones and Amy Carney
Joe Harris and Wilfred Jean
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September 2016
Justin Deere and Cindy Ware
Marija and Luka Nelson
Missy and Dave Fuehrer
Trent Pitts and Kristi Frish with Sheila and Billy Bryan
Fernando Cardoso, Lucianna Silva and Jane Hankins
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Alvaro Moretta, Stephen Fisher and Martin Moretta
Phil Jones, Melissa Fonsalfo, Andy Hill, Anthony Biggers and Hal Mabary
John Barton and Terry Thomas
Randall Terry and John Cook
Chip Woods, Anita Shew and Don Shew
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September 2016
John Scott and Sharon Thomas
Hannah Bloom and Amy Bell
Teina Moran and Lew Alvarado
Carrie, Emma and Phil Kerley
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Craig and Marnie Parsons
Jennifer, Matthew and Wyatt Smith
Alex Kovalic and Olivia Wells
Chip Harris and Ava Gray
Don and Anne Tennyson
Wendell McCollum and Kathryn Elias
Molly and James Antoine, Colt Dixon, Linley Schmidt and Jonathan McCarver
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Jerry Conway and Laurie Snyder
Richard and Andrew Stevens
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Ann-Margaret Hedges and Chad Riggs
Michael Grimm and Grace Bonner
Tony and Jesse deVelasco
Bob Reiss and Robin Clochard
Keith and Amber Wasinski
Andrew and Jim Moore
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Cate Leonard and Dan Montgomery
David Walters and Jackie Besteman
Marsha Baskin and Kim Shields
Joe Whitmer and Tom Claypool
Emmie, Jon and Renee Neiser
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Memphis Moment
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September
Vine to Wine California Dreaming at Memphis Botanic Garden Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
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rom March through October, Memphis Botanic Garden hosts a series of monthly wine tastings called Vine to Wine. The events benefit the Garden’s education and horticulture programs. The theme for July was “California Dreaming.” The musical duo “Short in the Sleeve” provided entertainment as Randy and Vicki Fisher guests gathered to celebrate summer with a selection of California wines provided by Athens Distributing Company. A Moveable Feast provided hors d’oevres including pesto chicken brochettes, spicy cantaloupe salsa with homemade chips, goat cheese and fig preserves bruschetta with toasted pistachios and candied bacon, caprese salad, smoked onion soufflé in phyllo cups, and sorghum espresso pork tenderloin with charred scallion aioli. Sweets were brownie bites and mini-cupcakes from Frost Bake Shop. In line with MBG’s mission to enhance lives by connecting people with nature, guests were invited to take a “Tipsy Tour” of the Herb Garden and learn about cultivating and harvesting herbs at home.
Ruth Stinnet, Carol Webb, Pat Holt, Sandy Stacks and Sandy Tucker
Freddie McMaster and Jenny Hebert
Thyra Smith and Torrey Hughes
Michele Munn and Tenieka Willams
Dr. Suzan LaVoy, Kathy Albonetti and Eileen Wenger
Leeya James and Clay Keeler
Charity Saunders, Kayla Sweeten and Bianca Sweeten
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Nina Braswell and Amy Grace Warren
Cecile and Fred Nowak
John and Karen Johnson
Dena and Bob Stoudt with Sandra and Bob Hayne
GREAT THINGS GO ON HERE! 6075 Poplar Avenue – Ninth Floor Memphis, TN 38119 901-684-1010 Crecent-Club.com
krocmemphis.org September 2016
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Big Green Egg Celebrity Cook-Off Benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation Story Submitted | Photos by Robin Morgan
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emperatures neared 100 degrees for Ken Rash’s 2nd annual Big Green Egg Celebrity Cook-Off, but that didn’t stop the fun. Guests Mike and Liz stayed cool thanks to the ceiling fans on the custom Edmundson patio and enjoyed music from FM 100. Celebrity chefs included Acre’s Andrew Adams, Jeff Raymond, representing the Big Green Egg, and Chris Michaels and Ron Olson from FM 100. They cooked up ribs and tenderloins along with delicious snacks that you wouldn’t normally expect from the grill, including pizza, nectarine tarts, and figs wrapped with brie and bacon. Everyone had the opportunity to buy tickets for a Big Green Egg giveaway, and the party ended with open bidding for a Big Green Egg. All proceeds went to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Jeff Raymond, Sam Cornpropst and Nick Nicholas
Caly Nahon and Meredith Duvall
Doyle Bennett and Justin Wooten
Mike Williams and Mary Russell
Kayla, Eva and Freddy Wienbeck
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Brenda and Bill Beeson
Blake and Lindsay Higgins
Andrew Adams and Chris Michaels
Pam Leach and Carlyle Acosta
Laura Treadway with Camille and Addison Blake
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Cooper Young Festival Kickoff Party Unveiling the 2016 Poster Design Story by Bailey Heldmar | Photos by Krista Geyer
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emphians gathered at CoWork Memphis on August 4th to meet this year’s poster artist, Jenean Morrison, Beth and Dean and celebrate next month’s Cooper Young Festival. Franklin Morrison is a best-selling coloring book author whose coloring books for adults have been published in the U.S., France, Japan, Turkey and Brazil. Her poster features the Cooper Young gazebo as the centerpiece surrounded by gingko leaves and flowers. Attendees lined up for full-size, colored posters signed by Morrison. There were also black and white posters and markers on hand, so partygoers could color their own Cooper Young Fest posters. Alchemy provided pimiento cheese sliders, deviled eggs, and bruschetta. A.S. Barboro donated the wine and beer bar. The band, J.M.C., kept the crowd entertained as they mingled. Cooper Young Fest will take place on Saturday, September 17th.
Bill and Becky Maury with Tamara and Bobby Cook
Jenean Morrison
Amy Schaftlein and Benjamin Rednour
Dan and Catelin Springer
Richard and Anne Sullivan
David Hyde and Melanie Felker
Lisa Stanley, Diana Barzizza and Amy Foote
Blake Johnson, Kyle Cheney, Laurie Snyder, Craig Stewart and Barry Godwin
Katie Kidd, Colin Ross and Tim Dunavant
Katie and Sunny Schnack with Katie McMurtry
Jonathen Willinger and Joshua Simmers
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Memphis Moment
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Ave Maria Fashion Show 60th Anniversary Luncheon for The Wings of Ave Maria Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
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he Wings of Ave Maria held a luncheon and fashion show to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Ave Maria Home. Local 24 TV host Amy Speropoulos read an old article from the Press Scimitar newspaper, which told the history of the organization. Founded as the Ave Maria Guild, Inc. by 13 women in 1950, the group Karen Cannon and Mary raised $300,000 to purchase 10 acres on Charles Bryan Road, where the Ann Capocaccia Ave Maria Home still stands. To reach that goal, the women held rummage sales, sold magazines, and even raffled off a home. Diane Montesi Pettit, whose father purchased the winning ticket and moved into the house when she was 18 months old, attended the luncheon. Channel 5 TV weatherman Ron Childers emceed the event.
Amy Speropoulos and Ron Childers
Helen Davis, Madonna Bond and Forrest Benskin
Lisa Bell and Margaret Gaia
Barbara Spinosa, Angela Capocaccia and Mary Webb
Carol Fleming, Marilyn Storkensen and Jennifer Vescovo
PuppyUp Walk Raising Awareness and Funds for Canine Cancer Story Submitted | Photos By Peggy Foster
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he PuppyUp Memphis team and their canine companions came together for a 2-mile walk through Overton Park to raise awareness and funds for the continued study of the links between canine and human cancer. The national foundation has awarded significant grants to the University of Wisconsin and the University of California – Denetta Marzette and Davis for research of treatments for osteosarcoma, a bone cancer that Leonardo affects dogs and children. Sponsors and vendors were on site with canine products and services, while local doctors and vets answered questions about cancer’s impact, early warning signs and treatment options.
Tammy Jordan and Lola
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Amelia Briggs and Brodie
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Meghan Watson and JoeJoe
Cody Douglas, Luke Ledford, Gary Douglas and Sherri Douglas
Ann Fritz with Cassie and Lily
Dave and Kelly Erskine with Rennie
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Illuminate A Semicolon Tattoo Event Benefiting the Memphis Crisis Center Story Submitted | Photos by Larrie Rodriguez
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n honor of everyone who has ever struggled with mental or emotional health, is a suicide survivor or has battled addiction, Underground Art, Inc. hosted “Illuminate: A Semicolon Tattoo Event” to benefit the Memphis Crisis Center. It was a celebration of connection—to share stories and meet people, to talk, laugh, cry, eat, Quintin Crabb and make art amongst other survivors. Project Semicolon was born from a Angela Russell social media movement in 2013. They describe themselves as a “movement dedicated to presenting hope and love to those who are struggling with depression, suicide, addiction, and self-injury. Project Semicolon exists to encourage, love, and inspire.” Six tattoo artists donated their time and skills to tattoo attendees with a semicolon. Why a semicolon? “A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.”
Arsella Gallagher and Lorin Vincent Courtney Rix and Larrie Rodriguez
Suz Young, Amanda Butts and Summer Hillman
Phillis Lewis, Vanessa Rodley, Jennifer Murry, Rod Adams and Blake Meador
Donald Hann and Jefferic Hibbler
Kristi Frisch and Trent Pitts
September 2016
June Hunt and Kat Farber
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Science of Wine
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September
Science of Wine
I Dustin Pickens and Janet Goode
Troy Malone and Bobby Maupin
The Physics and Fun of Winemaking
n only its second year, The Science of Wine has already become one of the most anticipated events of the year. Memphians flooded the Pink Palace for a chance to sample wines, taste food from local restaurants, and learn about the science behind the wine making process. Proceeds from the sold out event will benefit the Pink Palace Family of Museums. Over 30 tables of wines and heavy hors d’oeuvres were set up throughout the lobby, mezzanine, and galleries of the museum, so guests could enjoy the exhibits as they sipped their favorite selections. Partygoers could choose to attend one of three mini-lectures that detailed some aspect of wine making. Di Vino Wholesalers presented “Whiners into Winers,” which covered the facts and fiction behind low histamine wine. Riboli Family Winery Estates hosted “The Semi-Sweet Things in Life” where guests learned about the history, ingredients, and brewing process of semisweet wines. Finally, De Rio Vineyards gave a lecture called “Savoring Sicilian” for those who wanted to widen their knowledge of Italian wines. Each lecture included a tasting. Along with the informative lectures, activities included a Kroger sponsored wine pull and the chance to make your own wine glass charm. Guests could purchase VIP tickets that gave them access to a private room with a special selection of wines as well as white chocolate raspberry
bundtinis from Nothing Bundt Cakes. Also in the VIP room, Andrea LeTard of Andrea’s Cooktales offered cooking demonstrations of homemade ricotta raviolis with brown butter sage sauce. Snacks, including shrimp ceviche from Ecco, open-faced Asian BBQ crisps from Restaurant Iris, and Ahi poke with crispy shrimp crisps from Tsunami, were each paired with a wine from one of the participating vintners. Erling Jensen, Beauty Shop, Las Tortugas, The Grove Grill, Tom’s Tiny Kitchen, Café Society, and Nothing Bundt Cakes also brought delicious hors d'oeurves. Along with the featured pairing, guests could also sample other wines from the various companies, which included Constellation Brands, Di Vino Wholesalers, Don and Sons, L & L Imports, Old Bridge Cellars, Montinore Estates, Prestige Wine Imports, Trinchero Family Estates, San Antonia Wine Company, Santa Margherita USA, Del Rio Vineyards, and Broncho Wine Company. Representatives from each company were happy to tell guests about the wines they had on hand. All wines were provided by the West Tennessee Crown Distributing Company. One way to get Memphians interested in science is to combine it with a wine tasting, and The Pink Palace ensured that wine glasses were never empty as guests wandered through its galleries and listened to specially prepared lectures.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Bailey Heldmar Photos by Don Perry
Kim and Brad Van Frank
Miriam and Chase Pittman
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Katie and Terry Redeker
Ben Powers and Verity Goodell
Yolanda Ross and Dapo Odusanya
Linda Deane, Marilu Davis and Ruth Weaver
Victoria Emison and Caleb Jones
Science of Wine
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Dr. Drew Glazer, Will Reeser, Lindsey McGehee and Jason Robertson
James and Beth Rasberry
John and Robin Beaudoin
Maggie Swett, Kate Bass, Michael Zapatos and Angela Williams
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Mary and Bob Lee with Rita and David Compton
Jessica Goodfellow and Chris Chrestman
Mike and Alex Killingsworth
Gwen and Justin Parker
Cathy Tompson, Erica Rachal and LaTrice Pichon
September
Ashley Evans and Vince Lehman
Cheryl Leslie and Charlie Roth
Judge Mark Ward and Kristina Woo
Erin Laurenzi and Dustin Cochran
Jordan and Ryan Eads
Amy and David Wolford with Stacey and Jennifer Brown
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David Montanez and Jill Quarles
Namika and Jimmie Johnson
Clay and Stacy Barkley
Johnna Johnson and Stephanie Waugh
Andrew and Shannon Rock with April Garner
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September
Larry and Joy Rice’s Bastille Day Party Benefiting the ICHF Story and Photos by Bailey Heldmar
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arry and Joy Rice’s Bastille Day Party is a tradition that dates back to Larry’s first year of law school. After completing his Suzanne Boyd and first-year exams, Larry believed everyone needed Pamela Harris an excuse to celebrate, and Bastille Day happened to be the first holiday on the calendar. The Rices hosted the event at their Midtown home. The Memphis Knights Big Band Music welcomed arriving guests with upbeat tunes from their stage on the house’s large front porch. Ashley Crawford and A.S. Barbaro provided the beer, and Bret Rodriguez and The Bacardi Family Foundation provided the liquor. The event raised $5,700 for the International Children’s Heart Foundation (ICHF). ICHF is a Memphis based pediatric cardiac charity that provides free, life saving surgeries to children in developing countries around the world.
Sue and Doug Perkins
Shelly Reece Clark and Zane Clark
Brian and Pam Williams
Larry and Joy Rice with Racheal and Joe Smith
Kelly and Laurence Dobbins with Janice Holtzman
Sam and Heather Byrd
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Nichole and LeeAnn Rice
Sam Cicci and Harrison Donahoe
Melanie and Mitchell Vaughn
Heather and Matt Nordtvedt
Harold and Stephanie Alford
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A Night at the Theatre Benefiting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center Story by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
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Ronald Mook and Melissa Griffin with Angie and Jerry Pesce
heatergoers who attended Mama Mia! at Playhouse on the Square on August 13th also supported the Memphis Child Advocacy Center (MCAC). The fundraiser, “A Night at The Theatre,” was made possible by a generous donation from the Jerry and Nina Patton Family Kim and Jim Byers Foundation. Long-time MCAC supporters, the Pattons purchased 175 tickets for the show—approximately half the seats in the theater—and donated them to the MCAC. This is the sixth year the Pattons have sponsored the event, and the ticket sales raised $15,000. Hog Wild and A Moveable Feast catered the reception that took place before the show. Goat cheese and fig preserve bruschetta topped with candied bacon and crushed pistachios, sausage hoagie sliders, and antipasto skewers were just a few of the hors d’oeuvres guests enjoyed. Founded in 1992, MCAC serves children who have been victims of sexual and physical abuse.
Amy and Chuck Weirich Pat Halloran
Calvin Miller and Caron Byrd
Jill and Chris Williams with Jill Shanker
Scottie and John Simpson
Judy and Jim Prentiss with Vickie and Robert Shaw
Virginia Stallworth with Jean and Eric Christensen
Chip Williamson, Annette Askew and Mark Jordan
Susan Mackenzie and John Swift
Jerry and Nina Patton with Lori Patton
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Crossword
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RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin ACROSS 1 Wound reminder 5 Bird perch 10 What an insect bite may do 14 Very large book 15 ____ Acid 16 Horse command 17 Experts
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18 A Hindu's red dot 19 Lubricates 20 Perk 22 Kinds 24 Memphis winter hours 25 Speak without preparation 27 Small meal 29 Shade providers 32 Ales 35 Flightless birds 38 Swine ____ 39 Covering to keep away insects (2 wds.) 40 Convert into leather 41 Liken 43 "Green" government agency 44 Part human part machine 46 ____ Grande 47 Pretentious 48 Drove 49 Malicious burning 51 Brainstorms 54 Hues 57 Gloomy 59 Use a divining rod 62 Navigation system 64 Certain US rights org. 66 Sorties, e.g. 68 Christmas 69 Prayer ending 70 Fork prongs 71 Snaky fish
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72 Renovate 73 Regarding 74 Teetotaller
DOWN 1 Puncture 2 Powdered chocolate 3 Make revisions 4 Consequences 5 Lab research rodent 6 Leave out 7 Greasy 8 Clothing fasteners 9 Arcade coin 10 ____ Jima 11 Corn starch purpose 12 Frigid 13 Poetic "has" 21 Dear ____ (formal address in a business letter) 23 Ebony (colored) 26 Confuse 28 Weep 30 Shade tree 31 Infra's opposite 33 Sobbed 34 Remain 35 Engrave 36 Bread spread, informally 37 Without restraint 39 Jack ____ 41 Dogma
42 Atmosphere 45 Not even 47 Bugged 50 Olive ____ 52 Main artery 53 Male admirer 55 Not as false 56 Actress Field 57 River of France & Germany 58 High point 60 Trigonometric function 61 Paradise 63 Loch ____ Monster 65 Spanish "one" 67 Grounded flier
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ell, the numbers are in and they aren’t pretty. 19% of the US population is currently living in multi-generational By Dennis Phillippi ahousehold. At first blush this doesn’t seem all that strange; there are plenty of families that are perfectly happy to have Grandma living out back. There are more than a few types of families that don’t want their kids to move out, ever. But, looking a little closer, it also means that a disturbing number of young adults are back living with the folks because they couldn’t figure out a way to make a go of it in the outside world. It would be easy to blame politicians for this situation, citing the economy as the reason for this phenomenon. Easy, but inaccurate. The economy is actually doing much better than people seem to realize, with the Dow repeatedly setting records, inflation almost non-existent, and far more jobs being created every month than the average Shmoe seems to recognize. No, this isn’t about the economy; this is about young people making stupid decisions. Anyone can tell at a glance that people in their early and mid-twenties make a lot of dumb choices. Just look at their clothes. How can we expect someone to get a good job when they insist on wearing pants that are too short, glasses that make them look like they work for NASA in the sixties and, this one kills me, dark socks with athletic shoes. Dark socks with athletic shoes doesn’t just look idiotic, it’s unhygienic. Their sartorial decisions, coupled with some of the most ludicrous hairstyles in my lifetime, and I grew up in the seventies, make them virtually unemployable in any field that doesn’t involve driving people or pizzas around for a living. It’s no surprise that according to a study by the Pew Research Center, a research center so good it can survive being named “Pew”, one of the driving forces of this trend is education. Young adults without college degrees are now more likely to be living with their parents than to be married or cohabitating in their own homes. This can’t come as a surprise to anyone who has spent time with a young adult without a college degree. These are people who keep their nose glued to their smart phone, think that “supposively” is a word, and have spent much of their time recently looking for imaginary Japanese cartoon characters to collect for the
sake of collecting them. They’re not even something you can collect and sell. At least Beanie Babies briefly had resale value. Let’s not kid ourselves; you’ve made some questionable life choices if you find yourself back sleeping on the racecar bed. If you’re looking up at the same light fixture you stared at when you couldn’t sleep because your girl-
“Mamaw and Pawpaw have made it to their golden years only to find themselves an unpaid day care center. The quiet days of reflection they had been dreaming of since the early days of their marriage have instead become filled with screaming, running, sticky grandchildren.” friend seemed a little distant at the mall, you’ve screwed up. If your state of the art laptop is perched on the same rickety desk where you stretched a poorly researched paper by doublespacing and shrinking the margins, it’s time to face some cold, hard truths. My wife and I have more than one set
RSVPhillippi
of friends who have bought or built a house that should’ve been their downsized empty nest, but instead is more house than they need because they are operating under the assumption that one or more of their kids will bounce back. Amazingly, this doesn’t bother them. If we had chosen to have children, sweated out every dime for eighteen or more years, the second our kids moved out we would have changed the locks. Another big part of this happening is the rising cost of child-care. This was mentioned in the Pew report just that dryly. Kids are moving back in with their parents or grandparents for the free babysitting. Mamaw and Pawpaw have made it to their golden years only to find themselves an unpaid day care center. The quiet days of reflection they had been dreaming of since the early days of their marriage have instead become filled with screaming, running, sticky grandchildren. The old saw about grandchildren being great because you can give them back has backfired seriously on a lot of folks. You can’t amuse yourself by spoiling the daylights out of your grandson if he’s going to be there every day. I’m surprised they don’t have numbers on how many parents and grandparents are also uncompensated pet-sitters. Who knew old people were going to come in so handy? When we let it be known we didn’t plan to have children, everyone kept asking who was going to take care of us when we got old. As it turns out when we get old, we take care of them. That, my friends, is a jip. When I was a teenager, one of my older brothers briefly moved back into my parent’s house when his marriage, which survives to this day, was in a rough patch. I remember thinking it was weird, but also that it was a pretty sweet deal for him. One of my other brothers got demoted back to sleeping in the younger boys’ dungeon while the one who came crawling back got his old room. Back then, this was very unusual. But according to the numbers now, the instant young marrieds get into a tiff, it’s time to go bunk at the parents’ for a while. None of this would’ve been an option for me even if I hadn’t somehow defied the statistics and found a woman who was willing to marry an imbecile with a GED and one year of barely trying in college because the minute I moved out of my folk’s house, the last one to do so, they turned my old room into a sewing room. That’s one way to keep them out, make them sleep on a sewing machine if they come back.
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his photo was taken from the intersection of Cooper and Young, facing North. Romar furniture is on the left, where Sweetgrass and Next Door now stand. On the right, you can see the Harry Rosenblum shoe store, a drug store and O & S five-and-dime store in the building that now houses Alchemy, Burke’s Bookstore, Peridot, and Strano. We are looking forward to seeing this corner bustling with Memphians in a few short weeks for Cooper Young Festival! 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 Bailey Heldmar at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
Y o u c a n b e o u r n e x t d a n c i n g s t a r ! D a n c e S m i t h s i s r e a d y t o t e a c h M e m p h i a n s t o d a n c e . S t o p i n a t o u r n e w l o c a t i o n , j u s t a c r o s s f r o m L a u r e l w o o d . D a n c e l e s s o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r a l l o c c a s i o n s . T r y i t f o r e x e r c i s e , a h e a l t h f u l h o b b y , t o m e e t n e w f r i e n d s a n d i m p r o v e y o u r s e l f c o n f i d e n c e . F r o m f i r s t g r a d e r s t o s e n i o r s , w e c a n w i l l m a k e i t e a s y t o l e a r n a n d l o v e t o d a n c e . S i n g l e s o r c o u p l e s - n o p a r t n e r i s r e q u i r e d .
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