Dreamgivers' Gala
Sports The Orpheum Gala Ball
8370 Creek Ridge Cove
1893 Laurel Lane
379 Sweetbrier Road
Germantown, TN 38139
Germantown, TN 38139
Memphis, TN 38120
$$739,000
$530,000
$899,900 R NT
T AC
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RC
E ND
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This impressive estate boasts approximately 7300 square feet, which includes 5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, 2 half baths plus a spacious second floor playroom, office + 3rd floor bonus room.. Features include a master bedroom on 1st and 2nd floor, en suite baths in all bedrooms, 2 laundry rooms & 3 fireplaces. This amazing home also includes a gunite pool, incredible pool house as well as a charming 2 story playhouse which would be every child's dream to have. Upgrades include Thermador appliances, nail down HW floors up and down, 5 new Trane Units, 2 new Tankless Hot Water Heaters plus so much more! Great Location! Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Sissy Vaughan 901.870.6227 vaughan@ collins-maury.com
This one-owner home has been meticulously maintained and loved. Enjoy your gorgeous swimming pool with a water feature that creates a relaxing outdoor setting. The patio features convenient phantom screens. Kitchen has updated countertops, new dishwasher, gas cooktop, separate ice maker, huge walk-in pantry and a butler's pantry. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Laura Clark 901.483.2117 Laura@LauraClarkRealtor.com
Ever dream of owning a stately home in the River Oaks area? Just envision yourself entertaining in this home's impressive great room as your guests spill out onto the park-like backyard with gunite pool, pool house, patio, deck & gazebo.This spectacular home with its magnificent entry & grand split staircase provides you and your decorator the opportunity to create something truly special!
Nancy Cunningham
Bill Maury
901.569.2389
901.751.4311
cunningham@ collins-maury.com
maury@ collins-maury.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists ©
3454 Manor Grove Cove Collierville, TN 38017
$635,000
Cathy Banks 901.606.2374
Ginger Coggins 901.496.1477
Meredith Coughlin 901.443.0953
Tammy Davis 901.626.6674
Jamie Dey 901.647.6957
Melissa Reed 901.212.3234
Jason Gaia 901.338.6677
Nancy Huddleston 901.484.9494
Sally Isom 901.219.8882
Ruben Lopez 901.497.5352
Mary Williams 901.283.7795
Patricia Young 901.485.2559
Stunning home from the moment you drive up! Located in a cove, this amazing home sits on 0.92 acre. As you enter the home, the open floor plan, 2-story foyer, large rooms, chef's kitchen with top of the line appliances, is everything you have dreamed of. The backyard oasis w/heated, salt water gunite pool, outdoor cooking with Green Egg and refrigerator, treehouse, & zip line provides entertainment & relaxation. Home has large bedrooms, front & back stairs, huge closets, office & more. Around $25K in upgrades. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Laura Flaniken 901.508.1682 lflaniken@ collins-maury.com
Collins-Maury.com 5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
3276 Goodman Rd. Southaven,MS 38672 662.548.2000
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
CONTENTS September 2019
Features
Signature Memphis • 12
StreetSeen • 14
StreetSeen • 16
RSVPhillippi • 49
Mike Norvell
Calvin Farrar
Chef Ryan Trimm
It’s Not My Bag
Artist turns Memphis windows into iconic displays
Key player on the cutting edge of the local food scene
As a man, I am both baffled and amazed by the whole woman's purse thing.
Head Football Coach at University of Memphis
Events
Jacob and Evelyn Merryman
Lydia and Roy Bors-Koefoed
Don and Penni Walker
Rita Hayes and Jim Ganong
Memphis Moments • 24, 25, 32, 34, 36, 38, 43, 44, 45 &47
The Orpheum Gala • 18
Sports Ball • 26
Dreamgivers’ Gala • 40
A revolutionary event in appreciation for decades of entertainment
Games for grownups means futures for the kids of Big Brothers Big Sisters
A military salute for veteran servicemen and servicewomen
Cover Photo: Hananh Bland and Kara Smith at the Dreamgivers’ Gala. Photo by Don Perry Contents Photo by Roy Haithcock
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RSVP Staff Volume XXV • Number IX
September 2019 Publisher Roy Haithcock
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.
Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Virginia M. Davis Dennis Phillippi Gaye Swan Art Director Kim Coleman Photographers Baxter Buck Don Perry Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Carter Davis
Carter Davis
Account Executive
Carter is native Memphian and a veteran of the broadcast industry, and magazine publishing. He is also a freelance voiceover talent and can be heard on WKNO 91.1FM on Sundays. Carter is an avid animal lover and likes to work with aquariums as a hobby. He enjoys his East Memphis home with his wife and 2 dogs, and 6 cats.
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:
Kim Coleman Art Director
2110 MERCHANTS ROW • GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 901.385.3115 • TWODOORSDOWNGIFTS.COM
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Kim oversees all visual aspects of the magazine — advertising and editorial. Her career encompasses working with both print and digital media for magazines, newspapers and e-publications. Kim and her husband are raising their two children in the Cooper-Young area where their family enjoys the artistic atmosphere and entrepreneurial spirit of Midtown.
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2019 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
From the Editor
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September
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t’s September, a time when we can look forward to cooler weather as autumn arrives. And with the change of seasons comes so many fun traditions, all intended to draw you back outdoors. Take that annual weekend ritual — football. No matter which team you cheer for, tailgating is likely to be part of your social scene for the next few months. Whether you are in the parking lot of an arena or in a grassy area, like “The Grove” at Ole Miss, serving favorite food specialties to family and friends makes the game more of a party. Over the last nine years, University of Memphis fans have seen their parking lot party space elevated to new heights with the addition of “Tiger Lane.” For the 2019 season, U of M Athletics and Learfield's Tigers Sports Properties have entered into a new partnership to provide “Tiger Tailgates” presented by Hicks Convention Services. Tiger Tailgates will offer Tigers fans and fans from opposing teams access to premium tailgate services such as the option to order tents, fencing, outdoor furniture, ice coolers and more. Here are a few fun Tiger facts you can drop into conversation while getting pumped for a game (from http://historic-memphis.com/memphis-historic/normal-school/normal-school.html). • First year the Tigers had a football team? 1912, the year the school opened. • Name of the school at that time? West Tennessee State Normal School • By what other names has the university been known? Memphis State College, Memphis State University, and the University of Memphis. • What was the school’s tuition in 1912? The school was tuition-free for all Tennessee students. The only cost for students during the school’s early days was a $2 registration fee for each term (only $1 for the summer). Non-Tennessee residents had to pay $12 tuition per term, plus the $2 registration fee. • How did the team get its “Tiger” nickname? When the football team first took to the field, they didn’t have a nickname. Called “the Blue and Gray Warriors” (after the school’s colors), and ”the Teachers” and “the Tutors” (after the school’s founding as a “normal school” for the “education and professional training of teachers for the public schools of the state”), the name “the Tigers” is said to have come about from students shouting, “We fight like Tigers” during an after-game parade. Happy Fall Y’all!
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
September
Mike Norvell Head Football Coach at University of Memphis Hometown: Irving, TX Favorite Songs: “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty and “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry
Your Lucky Charm: Having my daughter, Mila, come to Tiger Walk before our home games
Your Best Quality: My work ethic A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite
to
Dinner:
Tom Landry, the original head coach of the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Spring festivals Favorite Place
to
Travel: Italy
Best Memphis Hangout: Overton Square First Car You Owned: A white Dodge Ram Place You Go
to
Think: Running on a treadmill or walking around the track
Favorite Southern Idiom: “Too big for their britches” Best Advice You Ever Got: “You only get one chance to make a first impression” and “Make everyday count”
The Highlight
of
Your Day: Stepping onto the field
Proudest Moments
of
Your Life: Becoming a husband and father; and
becoming the youngest head coach in the nation when I was hired at the University of Memphis when I was in college
One Goal You’d Still Like Championship
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Accomplish: Winning an American Conference
September 2019
Photo by Steve Roberts
Something You’ll Never Live Down: A picture of me with my hair in cornrows
A boutique for selective A the boutique for the shopper selective shopper
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
CALVIN FARRAR Windows Are His Canvas
September
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“The response from the public really motivates me. People see me around town and ask when I’m going to be doing my next windows.”
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or more than half his life, artist Calvin Farrar, 60, has been bringing colorful scenes to windows around town. Born and raised in Monroe, Arkansas, he moved to North Memphis with his family when his mother decided she wanted to leave the rural life behind. Farrar took his first art classes while a student at Georgian Hills. “I think I was in fifth grade when I realized that I really liked drawing,” said Farrar. “I tried painting with water paint (Tempera). I tried charcoal drawings, worked with crayons, and dabbled in watercolors, too. But mostly, I painted with house paint, because that was what was readily available to me.” Farrar continued, “After Georgian Hills, I took art classes at Manassas High School and I started thinking about a career as an artist. After graduation, I went to Shelby State where I took a few painting classes. That’s when I started going around town asking business owners if I could paint their windows.” Farrar started his window painting career on Madison Avenue. His first client was Ed’s Camera Store, which was soon followed by The Bar-B-Q Shop and Huey’s. As Farrar’s artwork gained more acclaim, his client base expanded to include other Madison Avenue establishments like Molly’s La Casita, Blue Monkey, Murphey’s, Neil’s, Bosco’s, Bayou Bar & Grill and Memphis Pizza Cafe. Over the years, his
talent has expanded his territory across Midtown and Downtown. Along Beale Street, Farrar’s seasonal displays have become as iconic as the eateries they adorn; Blues City Cafe, Miss Polly’s, and Silky O’Sullivan’s. Farrar has also added a festive flair to the windows of Soul Fish Cafe and Young Avenue Deli in Cooper-Young, CashSaver on Madison Avenue, Pappy’s Coffee Service on East Street, Huey’s in East Memphis and Collierville, and Superlo Foods on Covington Pike. “What started at Pancho’s on Second Street in Downtown Memphis led to me working for the owner, Brenda O’Brien, at her location in West Memphis, too,” recalled Farrar. “At Pancho’s I painted murals inside their restaurants, as well as created window paintings on the outside.” The Children's Museum of Memphis is another place that Farrar’s painting are on display, both inside and out, for various holidays. And for their eyes only, employees of Raymond James in East Memphis have enjoyed an indoor holiday mural in the company’s board room. Farrar is proud that he can support himself
with his art. He said that his most popular subjects are seasonal (like autumn) and holiday-oriented, like Halloween and Christmas. His process begins with his own imagination. He makes original sketches, then presents them to business owners for their approval, often tying in support for local sports teams like the University of Memphis Tigers, The Memphis Redbirds and The Grizzlies. Using exterior latex paint, he creates window displays that can last for several months. When asked what he likes about his art, Farrar replied, “The response from the public really motivates me. People see me around town and ask when I’m going to be doing my next windows. And when I am painting, people often stop and give me tips to show their appreciation for my work. Also, a couple of years ago, the City of Memphis, showed its appreciation by awarding me a certificate for Outstanding Achievement for 25 years of working Downtown.” Nowadays, Farrar doesn’t do much cold-calling to market himself. He simply signs his name and adds his phone number to each of his window paintings. He said that he sees himself continuing with what he is doing for the foreseeable future and is already looking forward to showcasing his talent this holiday season on the windows of the Downtown Memphis Commission on Main Street. “I’m happy my art is well-received and contributes to the beautification of our community,” concluded Farrar.
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
Chef Ryan Trimm On the Cutting Edge of the Local Food Scene
September
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StreetSeen
“I grew up in a family where everyone cooked, parents and grandparents alike, and I always helped out. I discovered that for me, I enjoyed more than just the cooking, I liked to entertain. I loved to show people new things.”
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hef Ryan Trimm, 39, is a key player in the local culinary scene. Although not a native Memphian, he has definitely made his mark in our community.
“I was born in Pittsburgh, PA and moved to Pasadena, CA with my family when I was 2 years old,” recalled Trimm. “When I was 12, we moved to Memphis. I attended St. Benedict, then Christian Brothers High School.” After graduating from CBHS, Trimm went to the University of Mississippi where he majored in English, with a minor in business. “I had every intention of going to law school,” explained Trimm. “But that all changed when I took a job, during college, in a restaurant in Oxford, 208 S. Lamar. I found out that I really loved cooking.” Trimm continued, “I grew up in a family where everyone cooked, parents and grandparents alike, and I always helped out. I discovered that for me, I enjoyed more than just the cooking, I liked to entertain. I loved to show people new things.” After Trimm completed his undergraduate degree at Ole Miss, Sous Chef Christian Gaines and Chef John Myrick, both of 208 S. Lamar, talked him into going to Charleston, SC. “I enrolled in Johnson and Wales’ one-year associates program in Charleston and earned an associate degree in culinary arts,” recalled Trimm. “There I met Chef Frank Lee, who turned out to
be the biggest mentor of my career. He owned Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) and dealt with a lot of locally farmed foods, fish and forage products. He introduced me to Low Country cuisine.” Trimm continued, “I loved Charleston and I loved what I was doing there, but I came to a crossroads when I became engaged to my high school sweetheart, Sarah. I wanted her to move to Charleston. But after spending Christmas break and a whole summer in Charleston, she realized that I was working about 80 hours a week and wouldn’t be home very much. So, she wanted us to live in Memphis where she could be around family and friends.” In 2006, Trimm returned to Memphis and ever since has been on the culinary cutting edge of our city. He began as a line cook at Grove Grill and within a few short months moved up to sous chef. He left that position in 2010 to open Sweet Grass with Glenn Hayes, who had been a regular at Grove Grill. A year later the duo went on to open Sweet Grass Next Door. Both restaurants showcased new things that Trimm was bringing to the forefront of the Memphis food scene. “When I first returned to Memphis, the influence outside of traditional Southern cooking was more of a New Orleans or Cajun style. I really
wanted to bring in Low Country dishes. Additionally, at Sweet Grass we offered the first true oyster bar, with different varieties and an “oyster guy” who could tell you the differences. When Next Door opened, it was the first bar where you could eat elevated cuisine and watch a game at the same time.” Trimm’s quest to stand apart continued when he entered a partnership with Roger Sapp and Craig Blondis to form Across The Board Hospitality Group. In November 2017, the group opened Sunrise Memphis, a breakfast place, proving, as Trimm said, “that breakfast doesn’t have to be just eggs anymore.” Next up was the opening of 117 Prime in May 2018, to fill the void of a steakhouse in Downtown Memphis. This summer, the group opened a diner, 3rd & Court, and this month they plan to open a bar offering a unique cocktail program in a “late night, juke joint” atmosphere. “It’s been impressive to watch some of the food pioneers here, like José Gutierrez, Felicia Suzanne Willett, Erling Jensen and Ben Smith, expand the Memphis food scene,” said Trimm. “But even more impressive than the growth of different styles of food is the way everyone supports each other.”
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The Orpheum Gala
September
The Orpheum Gala
S Chirag and Mandy Chauhan
Emily Thrash and Jonathan May
A Revolutionary Event
ituated on the southwest corner of Main and Beale in Downtown, The Orpheum Theatre has been one of our city’s crown jewels and the epicenter of the fine arts in Memphis since 1928. On a recent summer night, over 400 fans and supporters came together to celebrate and raise funds in appreciation for the many decades of entertainment provided by The Orpheum. The evening began with a concert by Leslie Odom, Jr., who won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Aaron Burr in the original cast of HAMILTON on Broadway, and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the new MSO assistant conductor, Kalena Bovell. The concert was followed by a spectacular afterparty next door at the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts. Guests made their way into an air-conditioned tent to begin with a champagne toast and dancing to the music of G3: The Gary Goin Group. The crowd moved into the Halloran Centre’s Grand Lobby, as staff dressed in authentic American Revolutionary costumes passed out mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres from presenting sponsor Horseshoe Casino & Hotel Tunica. The classical Revolutionary See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
String Quartet, positioned one level above the festivities, provided background music while guests mixed and mingled. Guests dined on fruits and cheeses, along with bacon-wrapped asparagus, Beef Wellington, Brunswick stew with cornbread cakes, and shrimp and grits. The private VIP room featured delicacies such as jumbo shrimp cocktail, fresh oysters, seafood salad and crab and lobster claws. Orpheum President and CEO Brett Batterson said, “We appreciate Leslie Odom and all the people who came to show their support for what we do.” Sponsors included First South Financial, Reality Capital Management, Armstrong Relocation and Companies, Pickler Wealth Advisors, Scott and Carol Hennessy, Lura and Steve Turner, The Majestic Grille, Gould’s Salon and Spa, Glassman, Wyatt, Tuttle and Cox, Sedgwick, Keri and Doug Gage, Veronica and Brett Batterson and PNC Bank. All guests received a special commemorative gift glass as a momento of this magical evening. Proceeds from this event benefited the Orpheum Theatre Group’s education and community programs.
Sean and Amanda Gould
Betsy and Andy Saslawsky
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Dottie and Louis Pounders
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Michael Todd
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Patty and George Alvord
September 2019
Lura Turner, Lydia Bors-Koefoed, Bonnie Thornton and Ron Jewell
Philip Gould and Jane Chapman
Holiday Gifts, Antique & Vintage Items, Furniture, Art, Rugs, Jewelry, Home Decor & More
4615 POPLAR AVE.•SUITE 3•MEMPHIS•901.590.3647 MONDAY CLOSED•TUES-WED 10-5:30•THURS 10-6:30•FRI 10-5•SAT 9-4•SUN 10-2
COTTONROWUNIQUES.COM
6252 POPLAR AVE., MEMPHIS, TN 38119 • 901-624-3333 September 2019
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Pat Brown and Tom Clifton
September
Nick and Christine Gant
Steve and Missy McClendon
Sher Taylor and Josephine Logan
Veronica and Brett Batterson
Lindsey Miller, Cheryl Holtkamp and Kristin Bennett
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Ricky and Florence Busey
Apryl and Jason Potter
Daniel Reid and Madelyn Gray
Jon and Tracy Trotter
Laura Ehret, Jennifer Futch, Warren Campbell and Kelly Schulz
September
K.K. and Cody Atkinson
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Nancy Gordon and Ashley Remmers
Mitchell Chase, Jason Baker, Jennifer Martinez and Jessica Darby
Linda Evans and Samantha Babb
Taylor and Rhonda Jones
Kelsea Mayo and Adriane Hall
Amy Miller and Elaine Kellogg
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Mary Lauren and Michael Stewart
September
Wendy and Mark Vines
Justin and Renee Bailey
Fabiola and Edgar Granada
Laura Condon and Sam Chacon
Elizabeth, Beth and Victor Carr
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Ellie and Tony Mascioli
Julia Hiltonsmith and Jennifer Hiltonsmith
Justin and Emily Jamerson
Tony and Jan Reed
Bill Ticer, Keri Gage and Brandon Ticer
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Memphis Moment •
September
Blues on the Bluff Annual Fundraiser for WEVL
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ith a gorgeous sunset as the backdrop, music fans and WEVL supporters gathered on the grounds of the National Ornamental Metal Museum for the 31st annual Blues on the Bluff concert. The event was sponsored by Memphis Made Brewing. As the crowd kicked back to relax and enjoy the talents of Ghost Town Blues Band, The MDs, and Lightnin’ Malcolm, a silent auction offered concert-goers a way to give additional support to WEVL FM 89.9. Guests also had an opportunity to purchase T-shirts, Blues on the Bluff posters and other WEVL merchandise. “We thank all of our supporters,” said Judy Dorsey, station manager. “WEVL FM 89.9 is the Mid-South’s only listener-supported, independent, volunteer radio station. WEVL broadcasts to a radius of approximately 50 miles, covering the Greater Memphis area, and is heard in three states and worldwide via the Internet.”
Lightnin’ Malcolm and Kevin Houston
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Reece and Steve Raney
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Rhonda Harris and Marsha Enlow
Evan Cameaux and Leslie Siegler
Craig and Eve Lazarov
Jim and Tami Fitzhenry
Cindy Law and Jane Roberts
Judy Dorsey and Melanie Cox
Cindy Tucker and Diane Malkin
Stephanie Harants and Saundra Bosche
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Memphis Moment
Suit and Sip Soirée Honoring Women of Distinction
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Carolyn Lawrence, Rose Slaughter, Cora Young and Delondra Woods
ixteen women from the Shelby County area were lauded for their contributions to the community during the Suit and Sip Soirée, an annual awards and fundraising event held by Dress for Success Memphis. The ceremony and dinner at TPC Southwind Clubhouse highlighted three areas in which honorees have distinguished themselves during their lives, careers and philanthropic efforts: Entrepreneurial Spirit Awards, Leadership Impact Awards and Pillar of the Community Awards. Through several programs and initiatives, Dress for Success Memphis provides job interview and workappropriate attire, confidence boosts and career development tools to lowincome women who are transitioning into the workplace. The nonprofit organization has been affiliated with Dress for Success Worldwide for 20 years. Awardees for 2019 included women who founded their own businesses, professionals in the medical and mental health fields, corporate executives, community development specialists, and a Tennessee state senator. Story and Photos by Virginia M. Davis
Drs. Robbie and Sara VanScoy with Debra and Bobby Willis
Maya Wallace and Makayla Green
Kim and Clark Webb
Jon Busse and Teresa Morris
Rhonda Hill, Aparna Basu and Johnsie Wallace Gault
Toni and Marlon Townsel
Dorian Spears-Merriweather, Roshunda Buchanan and Amber Covington
Beverly and Kelly Finnell with Allison Long and Donna C. Newman
Ruby Bright with Antionne and Angela Scott
Fatima and Rick Jarrar with Chris Narayanan
Pamela Kammerer, Catalina Tamez and Toni Boland-Evans
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Sports Ball
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2019 Sports Ball Games for Grownups, Futures for Kids
M Aaron and Helen Roberts
Isaac and Allison Ericson
ore than 600 supporters of Big Brothers Big Sisters turned out sporting Nike sneakers with their finest black tie attire and evening wear for the 22nd annual Sports Ball held at Memphis’ Nike headquarters. The curtained walls were lined with every kind of game imaginable, from basketball, Sno Cross and Super Cars to air hockey, Pong and table soccer. Lively music set a festive tone as special emcee Michael Blair entertained the crowd with his signature energetic style. Four fully stocked bars, including one that served up the evening’s special Appletinis, greeted partygoers who could cash in special coupons for play money to buy chips for casino games set up and staffed by dealers from Caesars Entertainment. The action was fast and furious at the blackjack and roulette tables as guests played for special money they could use to buy prizes at the end of the evening. In addition to a classic photo booth for a unique souvenir of the festivities, there was also a fun photo kiosk by Marcy Milman Productions where guests could don zany props for photos they could share with family and friends. Bidding was brisk in the silent auction which included fine jewelry from Sissy’s Log Cabin and Kendra See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Scott, an original 45 RPM Johnny Cash record, autographed Shawn Kemp and Patrick Ewing jerseys, Sunday Brunch for two at The Peabody, gift certificates from The Dive Shop, Folks Folly and Hilton, along with Dinstuhl’s, Incredible Pizza and Enterprise Car Rental. After bidding, guests made their way to a buffet catered by Caesars Entertainment which included shrimp and grits, pretzel dogs, short rib sliders on brioche buns, turkey Brunswick stew, a vegan black bean quesadilla, roasted asparagus spears, squash and tomatoes, as well as a carving station and a huge selection of fresh fruit laid out with a cornucopia of cold cuts and cheeses. Dessert was a spectacular production that included lemon bay custard with fresh raspberries, caviar fruit shooters, Caesar’s famous rum balls, strawberry parfaits, Snickers cheesecake tarts and a delicious selection of chocolate truffles. Celebrities present included CW 30 championship wrestling hosts Dustin and Maria Starr, NBA star Cedric Henderson and Action News 5 anchor Joe Birch. Sports Ball 2019 was sponsored by Caesars Entertainment and FedEx with generous support from Banks Finley and White CPAs, Kroger, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, Coors, ESPN and International Paper.
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Marty Brooks and Ashley Calhoun
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Martina Jones and Martel Jones
Ken King and Ginger Lawell
Aleia Segars and Jeffrey Wright
Linda and Shane Williams
Chris and Christy Marcrum with Bradley Shaw and Alissa Campbell
Lucy Paulino and Isabella Henderson
September
Kristy and Rod Marter
Jan and David Thompson
Brinetta and Al Carlton
Amber Elion and Ronda Kent
Joe and Dara Vongphrachanh
Bernadette and Carl Crawford
Tina and Russ O’Keefe
Sherita Anderson and Cathy Cox
September 2019
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Sports Ball
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Marc Badrian and Michelle Lewis
Landi and Michael Bohner
Kara and Bennett Doyle
Lashaunda and Eric Massey
Mark and Lindsey Giannotto
Christina, Alexandra and Mark Russell
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Alex and Kacie Butterworth
Carlton Fields and Jaylin Suggs
Catherine Wylie and Connor Dunning
Danette Stokes and Jackie Wiseman
Sunya Payne with Martina, Martel and Eddie Jones
September
Chris and Kristen Coles
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Marcie and Travis Brown
Wanda Taylor and Thomas Sullivan
Jeff and Jennifer Smith
Pamela and John Cook
Hayward and Candice Anderson
Troy and Gloria Ramsey
Michael Blair with Maria and Dustin Starr
3133 FOREST HILL IRENE RD. #110 | GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 901.425.5281 | MON - SAT | 10 AM - 6 PM Shop Online! BEAUTIFULSOULBOUTIQUE.COM
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Sports Ball
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Elliot and Amy Hughes
Erica and Leland Burress
Libby and Greg Phillips
Ricky Busey
Victoria and Chris Burdeshaw
Audrey Webster and Spencer Darrohn
Carolyn and Ronald Kent
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Jessica Gertler and Evan Webster
Melody Holt and George Monger
Terrill Steele and Chris Mullins
September 2019
Mickell and Chonisa Lowery
Andrew and Mallori Mitchell
Evangeline and Patrick Guest
You’ve Found the Right Mortgage Team! Whether you are in the market to buy a new home, refinance your current home or just want to lower your monthly payment, contact the Ford team for answers to any questions you may have. For most consumers, purchasing a home is their biggest investment. We are here to offer assurances along the way and make the process easier. We partner with our clients through every step with our ultimate goal being timely delivery of professional services. Reliant Bank Mortgage Services has your best interest in mind. The Ford team understands the importance of working with trusted professionals who know the fine points of the mortgage industry. • Conventional/Fixed Rate Mortgage Loans • Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loans • FHA Loans • VA Loans • Jumbo Mortgage Loans • Rural Development/ USDA Loans Call the Ford team for fast, professional, courteous service! Gordon Ford, Senior Loan Officer • Donna Ball, Loan Officer Assistant Bank NMLS# 527661 • Gordon Ford NMLS #484940 • Donna Ball NMLS#1843108 376 Perkins Extended, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38117 Direct: (901) 390-7262 • Fax: (901) 207-2774 • Cell: (901) 486 4080 Copyright © Reliant Bank Mortgage Services. All rights reserved. Reliant Bank Mortgage Services is a division of Reliant Bank and is an Equal Housing Lender, Institutional NMLS# 527661. All offers are subject to credit approval. Not all persons will qualify. All statements made are subject to change without prior written notice. Please see your Reliant Bank Loan Officer for current offers, rates and programs.
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September
Craft Food & Wine Festival A Benefit for Church Health
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ver 900 people turned out for the inaugural Craft Food & Wine Festival. The event took place at The Columns and showcased locally produced products from more than 40 vendors. For attendees, the festival translated to unlimited tastings of items such as meats and cheeses, breads, pretzels, pita chips, miniature pies, honeyed teas, bloody Marys, and wines. Pontotoc Lounge showed off its culinary flair with not one, but three, types of bacon; regular pork, soy and ginger pork and duck. A marketplace, set in the center of the venue, offered on-site shopping of many of the sampled products. “Food brings people together,” said Dr. G. Scott Morris, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Church Health. “Church Health is 100 percent focused on serving the community and what better way to do it than this.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Mary and Dr. Scott Morris
Amy Love, Jodie Greear and Katie Crock
David and Jill Montanez
Mike McCaffrey and Nour Haddad
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September 2019
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Memphis Moment
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September
Girls Inc. of Memphis Celebration Luncheon
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he annual Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon offered plenty of opportunities to learn more about and support the organization’s mission to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Before entering the Grand Ballroom for lunch at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis, guests engaged in the Girls Inc. Experience; four interactive stations that highlighted Girls Inc. programs. For participating at a station, guests were given a ticket for a chance to win one of the amazing gift baskets donated by community businesses. There was an option to purchase brightly colored beads for more tickets and to show their support. Lunch was served familystyle and included a delicious fresh fruit salad with dressing made from honey supplied by the Girls Inc. Youth Farm. During the program, the 2019 Girls Inc. of Memphis award winners were announced, including Woman of the Year Beverly Robertson and Girl of the Year Jetia Porter.
David Pitts, Anna Cole and Stacey Abraham
Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Brooke Padgett, Toni Evans and Christy Valentine
Alex Willis and Serrie Fung
Clifford Stockton III and Jasmine Gales
Tonya Cooper and Kelsey Hoffman
Willie Clark and DeSonya Tyms
Cassandra Brown, Karlescia Brookins and Vicki Azlin Kontji Anthony and Lisa Moore
Jordan Peterson and Joyce Johns
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LaTasha Brown and Greta Williams
September 2019
Stacey Sears and Yevette Hughes
Etha Williams and Valerie Fitzgerald
Harry Goldsmith, Sheila Jordan Cunningham and Lee J. Chase III
Memphis Moment
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September
Tour De Toast A Celebration of Champagne
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ew things go together better than a sunny summer afternoon and a glass of fine French champagne. With this in mind, Moet and Chandon sponsored Tour De Toast, a celebration of champagne, food and music on the lawn of The Pink Palace. Guests arrived dressed in chic attire and received a glass and a complimentary iced bottle of champagne. As DJ BA provided music, guests were greeted at the museum’s entrance and posed for photos. Then party-goers made their way to their selected picnic spots to enjoy their Moet and Chandon Imperial Brut, Ice Imperial, Nectar Imperial Rose and nine kinds of Royal Givens with Memphis-style brisket, Mexican style braised chicken street tacos, guava honey ice cream, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, strawberries, grapes and even a Memphis-style sausage and cheese plate. Award-winning chocolatier Chef Phillip Ashley Rix was on hand to offer a sweet ending with fine chocolates and gourmet popcorn. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister Gina Neely and Tony Rosser
Corlis Owens with George and Teresa Kinsey
Santa Patton and Angela Jones
Phyllis Roy, Pamela Moore and Rosalind Pryor
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September 2019
Larry and Sherry Anthony
Susan Stewart and Karen Riker
Chris Leake and Shontiva Pigram
Ashley Wineburg and Ariel Felton
Princess Woodard-Sternburgh and Ptosha Jackson
Keith and Stephanie Lowery
Deaundre Nelson, Alexis Morris and Savannah Smith
Memphis Moment
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September
Memphis Cotton Wives 50th Anniversary
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he Memphis Cotton Wives hosted a fashion show luncheon at the Memphis Country Club to celebrate the organization’s 50th anniversary. The sold-out event featured fashions from Kitty Kyle, as well as designs from the wardrobes of former Maids of Cotton Jean Carter Fisher and Gay Daughdrill Boyd. Babbie Lovett served as the event’s Mistress of Ceremonies and musical entertainment was provided by Jim Johnson. Lisa Bobango graciously welcomed the crowd and Rosemary Ballinger gave the invocation. Former Maid of Cotton Gay Daughdrill Boyd delighted attendees with tales from her year as a goodwill and fashion ambassador for cotton. Proceeds from the event’s ticket sales and silent auction will benefit The King’s Daughters and Sons Home.
Suzanne Brown, Eula Horrell, Gretchen Reaves and Linda Photopulos
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Tish Tuner and Grace Turner
Helen Bird and Sarah Lacirica
Carolyn Skaggs and Jean Tugwell
Diane McKinney, Nancy Walker and Lisa Bobango
Karen Dunavant, Arlene Southern and Carole Pruett
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September 2019
Babbie Lovett
Dotsy Liles, Betty Harris and Jerrie Harris
Diane Taylor, Cherie Litton and Regina Burton
Sarah Norton and Pam Montesi
Elise Griffin, Amy Griffin ad Gay Daughdrill Boyd
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Suzanne Lea and Valerie Patrick
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Helen Cagna and Beth Jeselson
Missy Hansen, Ryan Gorman and Dylan Gorman
Lesley Wingfield and Kendall Lucchesi
Kristin Funston and Shelli Gentleman
September 2019
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Dreamgivers’ Gala
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September
Dreamgivers’ Gala
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Trou and Sandra Gomez
Glenda Elzey and Jim Young
A Military Salute
he Tennessee Ballroom of the Memphis Hilton was filled with patriotic pride as the Forever Young nonprofit organization hosted its 10th annual Dreamgivers’ Gala to pay homage to military veteran servicemen and servicewomen. In addition to offering guests an evening of dining and dancing, Forever Young raised funds to return Battle of the Bulge veterans to Europe in honor of the 75th anniversary of the Army’s largest battle. Guests were greeted with cocktails and had the opportunity to “capture the moment” with props from Hotshots Photo Booth. Items like a toy wooden train made by a veteran and a pin autographed by WWII Normandy veterans that contained sand from the beach at Normandy made for an extra-special silent auction. A live auction continued the evening’s fundraising efforts. Dr. Tim Foster, who served as Chaplain in the US Navy Reserve and as Senior Pastor of Highland Heights Presbyterian Church, gave the Invocation. Daniel Hight, Executive Director of Forever Young, welcomed the crowd and introduced Major General F. Dexter Tutor, USAF (Retired) who led the group in singing “God Bless the USA.” A Grand Salute was given to veterans in the audience, calling on each service unit to be recognized as the US Armed Forces Anthem was played. A special group of veterans, those who had been See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
POWs, received a standing ovation. Diane Hight, Founder and President of Forever Young, shared a video presentation of the recent reunion of local veteran K. T. Robbins, 98, with his first love, Jeannine Ganaye, whom he met 75 years ago while serving in France. The application for the trip included a question about anyone from the war the veteran wished to find — Robbins asked for help finding Ganaye’s family. Forever Young was able to locate Ganaye and arrange a brief reunion while Robbins was on the trip abroad. Following the video, Ms. Hight made the presentation of the Jack Taylor Volunteer of the Year Award, so named for the senior veteran who has tirelessly raised over $150,000 for Forever Young. This year’s award was given to two women, Chris Batte and Elaine Oakes, who recently hosted the first Forever Young event in Alabama. Ben Emerson, a 16 year-old Eagle Scout was recognized with the Junior Jack Taylor Award for founding and chairing a 5K race, for two years in a row, to raise money for veterans’ trips to Pearl Harbor and Normandy. Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC was recognized with the Decade of Dreams Award. The evening continued with musical entertainment by the Memphis Knights Big Band. For more information about Forever Young, visit foreveryoungvets. org.
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Sonya and Dewayne Balentine
K.T. Robbins and Jack Claiborne
September 2019
Alli Lewis and Evelyn Claiborne
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Sara Jara and Sandra Moak
Steve and Judy Ashford
Bo Bahret and Deb Brower
Mary and Odom Mayhan
September
Peg and James Chappuis
Jim Frommel and Donna Mikeal
Tania and Brad Sherrod
Mandy and Charles Wiemar
Shane and Michelle Miller with Mary and Richard Anthony
Sandra and Roger Lewis
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Troy Parsons and Teresa Gerlach
René and Tim Foster
Daniel and Sarah Hight
J.D. Hunter and Addison Grace Hadley
Christy Leard with Todd and Barbara Weddle
September 2019
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Dreamgivers’ Gala
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Fred Heyer and Angela Johnson
September
Brenda and Larry Pickens
Winn and Judy Stephenson
Marla and Chuck Nitsch
Rich Walzak and Duane Oliger with Brenda and James Rushing
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September 2019
Sally and Jim Reynolds
Lisa and Bill Emmerling
Mary Jane and Ashleigh Dacus
Ryan and Ashleigh Barney
Dick and Susan Jacob
Joe and Robin Davis with Luke Laurine and Robin Davis
September
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Memphis Moment
Duration Fine Arts Club Officers Installation Luncheon
Becky Entrekin, Jean Robinson, Betty Lu Jones, Carol Greenwald and Hilda Mullen
(seated, from left) Tommie Pardue, Mary Mitchell, (standing, from left) Bunnie Olivere, Elaine Dudley and Pat Massengill
Gladys Hamilton, Paula Collins, Dot Walker and Nancy Chamblin
Lil Allen, Katherine Getske and Norma McCrory
Patti Russell, Nan Buck, Susan Tucker Kuhnel and Kay Price
Patricia Meyers and Jennifer Schneider
M
embers of the Duration Fine Arts Club gathered at the Memphis Country Club for their Officers Installation Luncheon. Katherine Getske welcomed everyone and introduced each guest and each new club member. Club Chaplain Patricia Myer offered the blessing and Program Chairman Hilda Mullen introduced Debbie Kines and Rene Koopman as the day’s musical entertainment. The installation of officers was conducted by Nancy Chamblin. The new officers are Becky Entrekin, President; Jean Robinson,Vice President; Betty Lu Jones, Secretary; Carol Greenwald, Treasurer; Hilda Mullen, Program Chairman; and Katherine Getske, Advisor Ex-Officio. The Duration Club, which was started during WWII to support the families of active servicemen, is now called The Duration Fine Arts Club and lends it support to the arts and local artists and musicians. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Ruthie Northcutt and Gerry Thomas
Gail Thompson and Elizabeth Thompson
Woman’s Exchange Annual Art Show
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rtwork from more than 95 local artists filled the walls of the Woman’s Exchange as an opening reception kicked off the organization’s ninth annual Art Gallery Art Show. This year’s show was chaired by Alexandra Gardner. Gardner said, “Proceeds from show sales will be used to support the goal of the Woman’s Exchange of helping others help themselves in our day-to-day business. Our mission is to strengthen the lives of women by providing a marketplace for artisans and by creating partnerships with educational and philanthropic organizations that support women and families in the Memphis area.” For hours and more information, go to their Facebook page or visit their website, womans-exchange.com, or call (901) 327-5681. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Scottie Cobb and Jeannie Paul
Lisa Johnson and Selma Gaone Johnson
Edwina Thomas, Renee Derossitt and Drew Cohn
Rankin Fowlkes, Elaine Edwards and Elizabeth Fowlkes
Debbie Binswanger, Beth Okeon and Sandy Friedman
Alexandra Gardner with Barbara and Joey Evangelisti
Betty Lu Jones and Judy Brookfield
Sherrye Greene and Susan Colwell
September 2019
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Memphis Moment
September
Memphis Italian Festival It’s All About the Gravy
T
he 30th annual Memphis Italian Festival brought thousands of people from far and wide to take part in one of the biggest and most family friendly events in the city. The three-day celebration took place at Marquette Park and was blessed with blue skies. Gentle breezes carried the delicious aroma of home-made Italian fare throughout the grounds and set the mood for a celebration to remember. A highlight of the festival was the fiercely competitive gravy cooking contest. Live music from Ben Abney and The Hurts, Ghost Town Blues Band, The Mighty Electric St. Jude Band, Trouble No More, along with Hope Clayburn &Soul Scrimmage led up to Saturday night headliners Devil Train and Ingram Hill. Along with the fine Italian cuisine, there was plenty of wine, beer and activities. Rides, games and fun for the children, as well as the Great Grape Stomp, and a wine-tasting kept kids of all ages happy. The event was sponsored by Chuck Hutton Chevrolet. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
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Raegan Cook and Dustin Perry
Paula Donati and Valencia Davis
Judy Vandergrift and Terry Howie
Chris Morton and Christy Patterson
Philip and Meghan Fernald
Bo Harris and John Zelinka
Sydney Sloas and Lexi Grace
Crystal Spillyards and Caroline Heblich
Olivia Manes and Carmen Manes
Jessica Mahan and Chantal Hagen
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September 2019
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Memphis Moment
Metal Museum Whet Thursday Music, Food and Art on the Bluff
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elebrating its 40th year in Memphis, one of our city’s true treasures, the National Ornamental Metal Museum, sits high on a bluff overlooking the majestic Mississippi River. As part of its public programming, the museum hosts Whet Thursdays, where guests can get together and enjoy food, music, and art. For the last Whet Thursday of the season, guests enjoyed cold libations, fare from Stanley’s Sweet Street Treats food truck, and music by Devil Train. Guests had the opportunity to visit the foundry and watch Anton Yakushev, a visiting artist from Russia, create his intricate artwork at the forge. There was also an exhibition featuring the work of “40 artists under 40” and Exhibitions Manager Nan Cook gave a gallery talk. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Wanda McKnight with Trent and Margaret Johnson
Amber Williams and Baleigh Kuhar
Kate and Anton Yakushev
Pam and Ben Knox
Jess Kirk with Kai and Ashli Aaron
Toonky Berry and Madison Miller
Leslie and Reid Ermert
Robert Burns and Tyler Lamb
Jodie Vance and Terry Younger
Jesse Dakota and James Ray
Anthony George and Richard Aycock
Elizabeth Belz and Kim Ward
September 2019
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September 2019
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Memphis Moment
Literatini Celebrating Literacy with a Twist
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ibations and literature made for a lively pairing as Literacy Mid-South hosted its seventh annual Literatini at Novel. Bartenders and staff from a number of local restaurants set up stations throughout the bookstore offering attendees samples of their signature martinis. Each guest was given two drink tickets that could be exchanged for full-sized cocktails from their favorite vendors. The tickets counted as votes, and when the evening ended, Pontotoc Lounge and RP Tracks went home with top bragging rights as the 2019 Judges’ Choice Winner and the People’s Choice Champion, respectively. “Literacy Mid-South is a local nonprofit organization that provides access to literacy resources for learners of all ages and backgrounds,” explained Executive Director Knox Shelton. “Literatini is a fundraiser that supports our programs. And Novel donated 20 percent of all sales during our event to our Adult Learning program.” Ashley Bonds and David Tester of Marx-Bensdorf Realtors were this year’s presenting sponsors. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Lindsey Johnson and Knox Shelton
Kontji Anthony and Daryl Smith
Dana and Kent Farmer
Autumn Killop and Cody Murrell
Ken McCown and Sara Hall
Sara McHenry and Kristina Mouksian
Sharon and Dr. Jim Bailey
Deborah Horowitz and Jason Goldberg
Danielle Aldridge and Desiree Lyles Wallace
Stephanie Cage and Kerri Campbell
Erin Hillis and Margaret Handwerker
Cory and Meg Prewitt with Andie and Nick Ray
September 2019
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Crossword
September
RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS
18 Greek 'D' 19 Bullets 20 Narrative song 22 More probable 24 Fix, as copy 26 Carnivale city, briefly 27 Support/esearch agency for one with Lymphoma, say (abbr.) 30 Korea's continent
1 Prig 5 Film brand 10 Norway's capital 14 Trot 15 Scots' neighbors 16 Study 17 Elliptic 1
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Prig Film brand Norway's capital Trot Scots' neighbors Study Elliptic Greek 'D' Bullets Narrative song More probable Fix, as copy Carnivale city, briefly Support/esearch agency for one with Lymphoma, say (abbr.) Korea's continent Slithery ones Snack Stage Authority (abbr.) Partly frozen rain Set up
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1 Pig
September 2019
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1 Pig 2 Star 3 Opaque gem 32 Slithery 2ones Star 4 Disney's Beauty's name 37 Snack 38 Stage 3 Opaque gem 5 Immature Beauty's 40 Authority (abbr.) 4 Disney's 6 Lode yield 41 Partly frozen rain 7 Pickle herb name 43 Set up 8 Up and about 5 Immature 44 Uncanny 9 Tan colors 45 Tub spread 6 Lode yield 10 Spoken 46 Baseball player Hank __ 11 Partial Pickle herb 7 48 Dined 12 Maimed 8 Up and about 13 Smell 49 3.26 light-years 52 Certain 9 compass point Tan colors 21 Adjust 53 Doze 23 Billion years 10 54 Distress callSpoken 25 Jeweled headdress 56 Tight 11 Partial 27 Fable writer 58 Pregnancy membrane 12 Maimed 28 Type of lily 63 Guide 29 Direct oneself Smell 67 Prego's13 competition 31 Thai or Chinese, e.g. 68 Moses'21 mountain Adjust 33 Ripen 70 Association that looks Billionrights years 34 Muslim sacred text 23Citizens out after US 35 1997 Madonna movie (abbr.) 25 Jeweled headdress 71 Leave out 27 Fable writer 36 Engulf 72 Too too 39 Heron Type of lily 42 Greek goddess of the dawn 73 Pillow 28 covering
Uncanny Tub spread Baseball player Hank __ Dined 3.26 light-years Certain compass point Doze Distress call Tight Pregnancy membrane Guide Prego's competition Moses' mountain Association that looks out after US Citizens. rights (abbr.) Leave out Too too Pillow covering Group admirers Bloodsucking worm Jumps
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74 Group admirers 75 Bloodsucking worm 76 Jumps
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Direct oneself Thai or Chinese, e.g. Ripen Muslim sacred text 1997 Madonna movie Engulf Heron Greek goddess of the dawn Listlessness 6th century B.C. prophet Vane direction One of two ancient Roman magistrates Steps for crossing a fence Rubbish University instructor, briefly Dalai __ Opposed (to), quaintly Snips Pot starter Resound Applaud "Calciums" antacid brand Curvature
44 Listlessness 47 6th century B.C. prophet 50 Vane direction 51 One of two ancient Roman magistrates 55 Steps for crossing a fence 57 Rubbish 58 University instructor, briefly 59 Dalai __ 60 Opposed (to), quaintly 61 Snips 62 Pot starter 64 Resound 65 Applaud 66 "Calciums" antacid brand 69 Curvature
IT’S NOT MY BAG •
September
O
ver the years I’ve said plenty of things in this column I thought would garner negative reactions, and occasionally, they have. But I feel By Dennis Phillippi certain that what I’m about to say will definitely get me some angry emails — your purse does not deserve its own barstool. There, I said it. More times than I could possibly estimate I’ve had to ask some woman, “Is someone sitting here?” only to be shot a dirty look as she has to pick up her purse out of a seat and with great weariness hang it from the back of her chair. Or God forbid, put it at her feet. The look is always the same, a dark grimace as if I am somehow hurting her purse’s feelings by making it get off of a chair. It’s not a person, it’s a handbag. It’s the reason God invented purse hooks. As a man, I am both baffled and amazed by the whole purse thing. Sometimes it seems like women lug an insane amount of useless things in their purses. But then there’s that once every five years or so moment when I actually need a pair of tweezers and they magically appear. My wife will be the first person to admit that her purse needs to be cleaned out. In fact, fairly often she has announced that she needs to clean out her purse, but she never makes herself clean out her purse. The task is just too daunting. Her purse is so heavy that it taxes the handle, if that’s what it’s called, to hang it on a purse hooks. That has been the death of a few purses over the years. Somewhere along the line she also picked up the superstition that it is unlucky to set your purse on the floor. So, she is often in a pickle because she won’t let it take up a seat, and the handle or strap or whatever doesn’t have the tensile strength to bear the weight of the thing. It’s just sort of in limbo until she decides the floor is still the best option, bad luck be damned. My wife justifies toting this behemoth because she, as a woman, needs a lot more things than I, as a man, do. And she’s right. Society puts a lot of strange demands on women that it doesn’t on men. Women are expected to wear makeup. Generally men are discouraged from doing so, even though I know some fellas who could use a touch of blush. Not only are women expected to wear makeup, they are also expected to carry it around with them in case theirs gets messed up somehow and they are unexpectedly going to meet the Queen. Single guys aren’t really aware of how much of that junk women carry. I only know from having watched my wife transfer it from one dying purse
As a man, I am both baffled and amazed by the whole purse thing. Sometimes it seems like women lug an insane amount of useless things in their purses. But then there’s that once every five years or so moment when I actually need a pair of tweezers and they magically appear. My wife will be the first person to admit that her purse needs to be cleaned out.
to the next. And she transfers everything. Getting a new purse is no reason to start the cleaning process. That would just be crazy. Women also all carry around a couple of
RSVPhillippi
bottles of nail polish. As far as I can tell they’re all roughly the same color, but multiple bottles are still important. Naturally that means carting around nail polish remover, which only comes in a bottle larger than all of the bottles of nail polish combined. There are also hairbrushes, combs, hair ties and barrettes. My wife is beautiful and her hair is straight and simple to deal with, but still she has enough beauty products to spontaneously open a pop-up salon. My wife’s wallet is probably the item that comprises the most mass in her purse because she has joined every possible club that gives a person a discount card to hoist around. Granted we do get 10 percent off at just about every restaurant we ever go to, every retail outlet we visit, and every museum we are never going to drop by. That combined with pictures documenting every stage of our nearly grown nephew’s life from newborn to high school senior, receipts she won’t throw away for no discernible reason, and a lone photo of me that is two decades old and you’ve got one crowded wallet,. She doesn’t even carry money in it. I don’t even carry a wallet. At least my wife doesn’t carry around a purse the size of a carry-on suitcase. Sometimes when I ask a woman to move her purse so I can sit down, I know the look she’s giving me is because it is genuinely difficult for her to hoist that monster. I can’t even guess what a woman might pack in a purse that size. Hardback books? Explosives? An OED? Then there are the women that just have a little clutch. I can’t imagine how they can pare down the essentials to such a small package. My guess is they have an entire drug store’s worth in their car. I picture her having to manufacture an excuse to go to the parking lot because she’s convinced she has to touch up her lipstick. Lipstick is a product I have never understood. I assume it’s supposed to make a woman’s lips look kissable, but the last things in the world I want to kiss are lips coated with some odd flavored wax. I miss cherry lip balm. Still, it’s nice to know if I need a nail file, clippers, a paper clip, a chip clip, a gum eraser, or years-old breath mints, they’re probably all floating around the bottom of my wife’s purse. Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t entirely on women. Society makes these demands and women are simply doing what women have done for millennia, taking one for the team. Between makeup, hair styles and painful shoes, a lot is asked of women. Oh yeah, and we also expect them to have the babies. Yikes, being a woman is a pain.
September 2019
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September
RSVPast Bon Voyage
1925
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ack in the days when getting to Europe was every bit as an adventure as traveling it, Richard Halliburton and Mary Grimes Hutchison hit the high seas. Hutchison, founder of Hutchison School was a longtime friend of the Halliburton family and Halliburton, famed adventurer, world traveler, author, linguist and photographer dedicated one of his action-packed books to her. Hutchison is seated, far left, and Halliburton is standing, center, wearing an overcoat. Photo courtesy of Jessica Burton Clarke and Hutchison School archive.s 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.
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. 50
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September 2019
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RETIREMENT REIMAGINED THE MID-SOUTH’S PREMIER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY SINCE 1976 177 NORTH HIGHLAND STREET | 901.515.2800 TREZEVANTMANOR.ORG