JOHN AITKEN
& THE EPIC GRIDIRON BATTLE FOR AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL SYSTEM (pg 42) CELEBRATING A NOT-SO-TYPICAL DAY WITH COLLIERVILLE HIGH’S HOMECOMING
QUEEN
ASHLEY LAWHORN (pg 48)
A SEASON OF THANKSGIVING WITH COLLIERVILLE’S QUEEN OF COMFORT FOOD, MOTHER OF 10 & OWNER OF THE SILVER CABOOSE
MARY JEAN HALL SMITH (pg 28)
SOCIAL JAUNTS
ALPA-FEDEX PILOTS’ LUAU (pg 12) PRESERVATION PARTY (pg 16) PARADE MAGAZINE RECEPTION (pg 20) THE FROZEN EXPERIENCE (pg 22) THE MORTON MUSEUM (pg 23)
PLUS!
RETAIL THERAPY WITH THE PINK NEST (pg 34) ELECTION CANDIDATE BIOS (pg 50)
MarketPlace salutes the 2014 seniors of the Collierville High School varsity football team. Get out and support our team!
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photos by Michael Allen, Webz Advertising
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contents On the cover: (left) Collierville School Board members Wanda Chism, Wright Cox, Mark Hansen, Cathy Messerly, and Kevin Vaughan; Principal of Collierville High Chip Blanchard; (large) Collierville Schools Superintendent John Aitken; (right) Collierville Mayor, Stan Joyner, Jr.; Collierville Aldermen Maureen Fraser, Jimmy Lott, John Worley, Tom Allen, and Billy Patton; Town Administrator James Lewellen
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November Calendar
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Editor’s Letter
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Coming Up
11 SOCIAL 12
Hawaiian Shirts & Grass Skirts
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Partners in Preservation
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Parade Magazine Reception
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The Frozen Experience
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Morton Museum
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Foster-Skirius wedding
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Lombardo-Patten wedding
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Home Place - Mary Jean Hall Smith & the Silver Caboose
33 SHOP/DINE 34
Retail Therapy
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Hungry?
41 CIVIC 42
Game On. - Collierville Schools Superintendent, John Aitken
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CHS Homecoming Queen Ashley Lawhorn
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Meet the Candidates
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Local Color - Morton Museum
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Brilliance - Parks & Rec
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Square Living - Main Street
57 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY 58
Our Unity Creates Community Collierville Chamber
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Access: Organized for Success Economic Development
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Make Collierville Home
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Fire within me.
November 2014
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Ta
aD
rive
e l l i v er i l l o TourC ke Your Hive
for
PUBLISHER
Amber Lombardo
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Josie Stephenson
ADVERTISING
Jamie Robinson | Amy Dunbar
INTERACTIVE & GRAPHIC DESIGN Meg Skirius
GRAPHIC DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY Katie Burriss
To subscribe to one year (6 issues) of TourCollierville Magazine, send payment of $35 to: Webz Advertising | 185 N Main St Collierville, TN 38017 or visit www.tourcollierville.com to pay online. ADS@TOURCOLLIERVILLE.COM
To inquire about advertising in TourCollierville or on www. tourcollierville.com ART@TOURCOLLIERVILLE.COM
For questions regarding ad art submission. PHOTOS@TOURCOLLIERVILLE.COM
To request a photographer at your event or purchase a photo from our archives. TourCollierville Magazine is published 6 times annually and is available at select locations throughout Collierville. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way without express written consent of the publisher. Š 2014 Webz Advertising
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2014
NOVEMBBERR NOVEMBER The Heiress
Theatre Memphis (Oct 17-Nov 2)
Once
2
Orpheum (Oct 28-Nov 2)
Collierville Literacy Council Scrabble Fundraiser
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St. George’s Independent School
Memphis Flea Market “The Big One” Agricenter (Nov 15-16)
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Break-A-Leg 5k Orpheum Better Living Home, Garden & Christmas Show Agricenter (Nov 21-23)
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A Christmas Story The Musical Orpheum (Nov 25-30)
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SUNDAYS:
Sunday Brunch Bonefish
Kids Eat Free IHOP
Grizzlies vs. Pelicans FedEx Forum
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tour Collierville Co llierville
Fused Glass
Scarecrows!
Botanic Garden
Lichterman Nature Center (Sep 11-Nov 21)
Motley Crue
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5
Artist Group Exhibit
Grizzlies vs. Lakers
UofM Tigers vs. Christian Brothers
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Botanic Garden (Nov 3-30)
Grizzlies vs. Rockets FedEx Forum
17 UofM Tigers vs. Prairie View A&M FedEx Forum
FedEx Forum
Mid-South Enchanted Wedding Show Forest Festival Whispering Woods of Trees Hotel & Conference
Solar Tour
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Agricenter
MS Riverkings vs. Louisiana Landers Center
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Christmas at Graceland
UofM Tigers vs. SFA
Graceland (Nov 21-Jan 8)
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DECEMBER
MONDAYS:
Kids Eat Free Chick-fil-A & IHOP
FedEx Forum
FedEx Forum
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Pink Palace Museum (Nov 15-Dec 31)
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Thanksgiving at the Dixon Dixon (Nov 25-30)
Sanders Family Christmas
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Playhouse on the Sq. (Nov 20-Dec 28)
Southern Lights
Southaven Parks & Rec. (Nov 27-Dec 31
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TUESDAYS:
WEDNESDAYS:
McAlister’s, IHOP & Perkins
Bazaar Oil & Vinegar
Kids Eat Free
Tasting Night Kids Eat Free IHOP
Landers Center
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Jake Shimabukuro GPAC Scotch Tasting Benefit Theatre Memphis
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Grizzlies vs. Kings Fedex Forum
Peter Pan
Playhouse on the Square (Nov 20-Jan 4)
Art After Dark
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Dixon
Thanksgiving
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Spotlight Saturday
Morton Museum
Tintypes
Merchants Holiday Open House
Theatre Memphis (Nov 7-22)
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8
Collierville Main Street
Schoolhouse Rock Live! Orpheum
MS Riverkings vs. Columbus
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Landers Center
Wine Down Dixon
Kids Eat Free
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Zoo Lights Memphis Zoo (Nov 21-30)
Cornucopia Workshop
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Jazz in the Box Stephen Lee - GPAC
Dixon
Orion Starry Nights
Shelby Farms Park (Nov 21-Dec 28)
MS Riverkings vs. Louisiana
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Breakfast & Brunch with Santa
Cedar Hill Farm (Nov 29-Dec 20)
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Landers Center
UofM Tigers vs. Bradley
4
Captain D’s & IHOP
Rodin Family Day
Fall Campfire Party Botanic Garden
Memphis Zoo (Nov 21-30)
Collierville Farmers Market
Canon Center Dixon
Memphis Zoo on Ice
THURSDAYS:
Memphis Symphony Orchestra
FedEx Forum
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FRIDAYS:
SATURDAYS:
weather permitting
McAlister’s, IHOP & Perkins
Bluegrass on the Square Kids Eat Free
Kids Eat Free
IHOP
Never miss a thing! Visit
www.tourcollierville.com
for details about these events and to sign-up for our broadcast email. Like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter! TourCollierville is a project of Webz Advertising. Send revisions & requests for inclusion to amy@webuzz.biz. November 2014
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© 2014 Webz Advertising
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Living and working in Collierville is about margin.
Margin
Letter from the Publisher
Having served clients all over the country, it is not uncommon to find folks who underestimate the professional environment of the Memphis area – marginalized. At times, Memphis business underestimates the professional environment of Collierville – marginalized. TourCollierville Magazine endeavors to remedy that by shining a bright and unmistakable light on all that our region has to offer. Having a career in advertising hardly equips me with vocabulary to describe the depth and breadth of cultural opportunity here. There are not enough words – but there can be if we begin to tell the story here… and now… in these pages. This first issue does not shy from a very critical topic that has monopolized the front page of every Memphis area media outlet and, at times, the national media spotlight – Shelby County Schools and the resulting suburban independent districts, specifically Collierville Schools. Superintendent John Aitken did not dissapoint. An afternoon chatting with Mary Jean Hall Smith, owner of the Silver Caboose was a charming opportunity to trade business war stories and get a little good advice. Meeting the undeniably joyful Ashley Lawhorn and her family proves that “kids these days” have a heart. I am humbled and honored to write this letter with my new title of “Publisher” and I thank each and every client for hiring us so that we could begin this journey. I thank my amazing staff without whom none of this would be possible. Webz Advertising celebrates 15 years on October 31, 2014, the very day
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that the first issues of TourCollierville Magazine will land in Collierville. The irony of this is nothing short of inspiring - especially for those who know that every step of the way presented a brand new challenge. The offices of Webz Advertising have been in another of America’s favorite downtowns, the wonderfully antebellum and eclectic, Columbus, Mississippi. It has had offices in my home and in East Memphis’ retro cool Clark Tower. We were in the Broad Arts District for a couple of years above our friends, Splash Creative and David Brown’s incredibly creative crew. We grew into and out of Criss Cross Lodge (a beautiful home loving restored by the father Jimmy Blount, a local attorney). Growth led us to the Stamps Building at the corner of Poplar and Main – a place we knew was home as soon as we realized it actually resembles a beehive. What we didn’t really plan but have found was a part of God’s creative outcome, was that moving to the historic district and so close to the bustle of “America’s Best Main Street” (made official by Parade Magazine) gave us margin. Room to grow. Sweet air to breathe. Trees. Neighbors that we bump into on our way to YoLo or Square Beans.
That is margin. We love living in Collierville - with its lovely sidewalks and neighborhoods that are safe enough to allow my young girls to zoom about on their bicycles. It gives me room to breathe in an otherwise chaotic and harried entrepreneurial world. We love going to Memphis for all that it delivers but we also love going home.
For margin.
TEENS AT TTHE HE LIBRARYY: DANCE WITH ZOMBIES DRINK TEA WITH JAY GATSBY CATCH THEIR DREAMS DISCOVER NEW WORLDS
UPCOMING EVENTS: 11/19 Teen Writing Class 11/22
Mockingjay movie viewing
Preserving, Promoting & Protecting the Historic District of Downtown Collierville. National Accredited Main Street Program
IN DECEMBER: Knitting & Crochet DIY Ugly Sweater Party Teen Writing Class
Certified Tennessee Main Street Program A Preserve America Community Town of Collierville Named America’s Best Main Street by Parade Magazine
125 N Rowlett • Collierville, TN 38017 COLLIERVILLELIBRARY.ORG INSTAGRAM: BURCHBOOKLOVERS
901.853.1666 • www.mainstreetcollierville.org
@MainStCville
SERVING OUR TOWN SINCE ‘88 1120 Highway 57 Eastwww. superiorcollierville.com
November 2014
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Coming Up
December 2014
January/February 2015
JAMES LEWELLEN, Town Administrator, talks
JOHN DUNCAN, Economic Development Director,
with TourCollierville Magazine about cross-country rides on his motorcycle, visiting other towns to bring back great ideas for Collierville.
talks with our editor about plans for Collierville’s industrial growth and his thoughts about next steps toward implementation of the 2040 Plan.
COLFIELD GALLERIES opens their home and working studio to us for festive holiday decor, the perfect accoutrement for the art of Dave Colvin and Jessica Hatfield.
TourCollierville Magazine will publish its first bridal edition complete with area wedding details, bridal vendor guides, decorating ideas and more!
Our new STEALS section offers readers savings all over town to brighten holiday shopping season.
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IT’S BRIDAL SEASON!
HEALTH & FITNESS takes the spotlight along with PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS for a healthy start to the new year.
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HAWAIIAN SHIRTS & GRASS SKIRTS
The FedEx Pilots’ Charitable Fund (a not-for-profit
division of ALPA) hosts a drive-in/ride-in/fly-in fest at Hawk’s Nest in Moscow, Tennessee.
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PARTNERS IN PRESERVATION
Collierville residents fluff their finest hats for Main Street Collierville’s Annual fundraiser, Downtown Derby and Taste of the Town.
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PARADE MAGAZINE RECEPTION
The Town of Collierville hosts a reception in celebration of Parade Magazine’s Best Main Street in America designation.
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THE FROZEN EXPERIENCE
Cox Park was overtaken by princesses and snowmen at the Parks and Rec event where families chilled in lowerthan-expected temperatures.
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MORTON MUSEUM
Our Town’s museum is fast becoming a place where we gather for all kinds of activities. Take a look at just a few they’ve hosted recently.
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FOSTER-SKIRIUS WEDDING
Mike & Meg share a taste of their summertime affair, complete with University of Tennessee spirit!
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LOMBARDO-PATTEN WEDDING
Our publisher enjoys a week at Seaside with family and friends after celebrating barefooted and declaring “It’s never too late to live happily ever after.”
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HOME PLACE
The story of Mary Jean Hall Smith and our town’s haven for home cooking, the Silver Caboose, are the cornerstones of her impressively large family (10 children!) and even larger work ethic.
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Hawaiian Shirts & Grass Skirts ALPA - FedEx Pilots’ Charitable Fund Saturday, October 4, 2014 | Hawk’s Nest | Moscow, Tennessee
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1: Alex & Ella Stephenson, Izzy & Ella Patten, Kyle, Ryan & Shane Dunbar. 2: N. Welker, Amy Allen, Cathy Arrington, Jessica Hatfield. 3: Jill & Pete Rasnick, Laura Hollis. 4: David, Kelly & Chester Jones. 5: Henry Gallop, The Greens: Mason, Harvey, Alexander, Amy. 6: Jessica, Teja & Rita, Megan Lazenby, Hannah Doohen, Jenny McCoy, Taylor Bennett, Sahryer Antonette, Adam Jamerson, Heather Slocum
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www.colfieldgallery.com 901.270.3893 Jessica@ColfieldGallery.com
We invite you to join us for monthly
Cocktail Hour Conversations: The Science of Art, Culture and History Check out our website for more information and future events. Are you a new and emerging artist, let us help promote you and your work. Red Alignment by David Colvin
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Colfield Gallery is an online gallery promoting fine art in Collierville and beyond. Personal showings by appointment.
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1: Jessica, Teja & Rita. 2: Hannah Doonen, Jenny McCoy, Megan Lazenby 3: Game Truck : Kodi Crapo, Johah Wagner, Eric Marionneaux. 4: Roxi Love. 5: Sean McDonald, Cassie Teeter, Alicia Teeter, Scott Stratton. 6: Woodmen of the World: Frad Hancock, Matt Payne, Eric Kendall. 7: Jessica Hatfield, Val Slocum, Ginny Modlin, LeeAnn Lovelace
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Partners in Preservation 22nd Annual
photos courtesy of Chuck Lajeunesse 1
Downtown Derby and Taste of the Town | Main Street Collierville Saturday, September 6, 2014 | Historic Town Square
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1: Laura Todd, Dee Dee Mizell, Debbie Hale, Mano Boyadjian, John Sandy, John Stamps, and Bill Todd. 2: Jeremy Shrader Hot Memphis Four Jazz Band. 3: Mark and Sara Hansen. 4: Stan Holmes, Rachel Free. 5: Bill Todd (committee member), Karen Perrin (Board oďŹƒcer), Scott Rozanski (Board President), and Debbie Hale (Board member and co-chair). 6: Je and Lana Martindale (past president). 7: Joyce McKenzie, Laura Todd & friends.
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1: Bill and Laura Todd. 2: Six Degrees Band. 3: John & Jody Aitken. 4: Debbie Hale and Mano Boyadjian (event chairs). 5: Lyndsey Drotar, Layla Morgan and friend.
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Parade Magazine Reception
1: Mark Heuberger, Sheila Moody, James Lewellen, Mayor Stan Joyner. 2: Laura Todd, John Duncan. 3: Mayor Stan Joyner with Junior Auxiliary. 4: Bill Kelsey, Watty Brooks. 20
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photos by Katie Burriss, Webz Advertising
Town of Collierville Morton Museum Monday, August 18, 2014
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the Frozen Experience Town of Collierville | Cox Park Friday, October 3, 2014
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1: Tim, Maryssa & Rayley Ryan. 2: John & Isla Whidden & Ellie Adamson. 3: Ella Patten, Ella & Henry Harris, Avery Pennington, Izzy Patten. 4: Isla, Ellie, Ava, Hadley. 5: Luke Starrett, Lia & Morgan Belyeu, Bailey Johnson & Sophia Steinhausler 3
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photos by Amber Lombardo, Webz Advertising
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1: Ashley Carver with a Girl Scout Troop. 2: Guests dig into the clothing exhibit. 3: Sack Race during Dairy Day. 4: Dairy Day Ice Cream Judges: Peggy Turnipseed, Taylor Stamps, Mayor Joyner. 5: St. George’s students. 6: Garden Club Flower Contest. November 2014
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mike
&
meg
fosterskirius
May 31, 2014 Collierville, Tennessee
On May 31, 2014, Mike and Meg stood in front of family and friends at the Incarnation Catholic Church to exhange their vows. Amidst playful pops of orange - a nod to their alma mater, the University of Tennessee - the reception was held outside Savannah Woods Plantation. The DIY bride crafted the celebration, complete with rusty bed springs turned centerpieces and a personalized cake topper. Queen’s hit, “You’re My Best Friend” played as the couple met on the dance floor for their first dance. Much to the bride’s delight, they toasted over a three-tiered cake courtesy of Lee Sanders, known for making fellow UT alum Peyton Mannning’s wedding cake. The couple left the venue with a sparkler send-off before heading to Charleston, South Carolina for their honeymoon.
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PHOTO Kevin Barre Photography KevinBarrePhoto.com VENUE Savannah Woods Plantation DRESS Barefoot Bride CAKE Lee Sanders
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Lombardo &Patten Santi William Lombardo, Jr. Amber Lynn Patten July 21, 2012 Seaside, Florida Now & Then Cottage
OFFICIANT Eli Morris, Hope Church HAIR Janice Allen, Pastiche Salon PHOTO Michael Allen Photography
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On May 11, 2012, Santi and Amber exchanged their vows in a private ceremony held in the rock garden at Hope Church in Cordova, Tennessee. Dr. Eli Morris officiated. The couple then hosted a celebration for friends and family in the coastal town of Seaside, Florida at Now & Then Cottage. Larry Kelley, the bride’s uncle, led the celebration, making his entry in bare feet in honor of the bride’s jovial suggestion about attire. The indecisive bride, torn between two gowns, wore floor length, billowing white cotton for the seafood feast prepared by the bride’s family.
As the sun lowered for a perfect ocean front evening, photographer Michael Allen rounded guests for the ceremony and the bride’s second dress, a gathered bodice and more formal organza. The groom wore white and natural linen. The family enjoyed a week-long stay and threatened to never return. Attending the bride as matrons of honor were sisters, Ann Bishop and Tonia McKee. Her daughters, Ella & Isabelle, served as flower fairies. Standing for the groom were Kevin Weeks and Timothy Close.
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An afternoon chat
with Mary Jean Hall Smith
feels as easy and comfortable as a swing on a breezy
southern porch, sipping
champagne from a crystal
goblet, quipping Mark Twain
and giving a good, long chuckle every now and then. The
creaks and taps of her 1921
classical home echo its third generation of Smith family residents.
If these walls could talk‌
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We d dispense ispe is p ns pe nse e with wiith h tthe he usual polite small talk befitti tting any ordinary Tennessee chat: A storm is brewing for tthe afternoon. Business is brisk at the Silver Caboose since Collierville’s receipt of the Parade Magazine’s designation “America’s Best Main Street.” The construction of the new University of Memphis campus down the street will mean great things for our town. As we begin to slip into details that are great fodder for my article, I ask Mary Jean if she minds if I record the audio of our conversation. “Of course,” she says, “but before you do, there is one thing about me that you must never, ever tell.” Mary Jean Hall Smith is a fourth generation Collierville resident. Her family ancestors are from Tennessee and Mississippi, reaching most every corner of the town during a time that we now only know in photographs. She talks of parents who taught her about hard work, perseverance, treating people well and pride in your appearance. When Mary Jean’s youngest child was 3 and entering pre-school, she began working at one of Memphis’ most renowned eateries, the Knickerbocker. She speaks affectionately of its owner, Vernon Bell, and how well respected he was as a restaurateur. “Folks would come from all around to the Knickerbocker because it was home. It was where you went to celebrate. The
recipes were the way we cooked, from scratch with real ingredients.” Mary Jean spent 10 years at the Knickerbocker learning the trade. One Sunday afternoon while on a drive in 1996 (ten years after leaving), she decided it was time she listen to her spirit. “The restaurant business just gets in your blood,” she says. She and her husband, Bob, refurbished an old pharmacy building on the Collierville Square, opening the door of the Silver Caboose in February 1997. In 2007, they purchased the building next door and expanded their space to accommodate more guests along with the Sidecar Market, a great spot to grab a pie or casserole to take home on a busy afternoon. Children adore studying the exhaustive detail in a handcrafted train set that busily circles
around the room, mostly constructed by her husband, Bob. “People want a place that stays the same,” she states. “Our world is forever changing and while we, as people, must continually adapt in order to stay successful, having a “homeplace” gives us a nook to return to. You can always count on the Silver Caboose staying exactly the same. The recipes are the same. The dishes are the same. The pies are the same… just like my children demand at our Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners at home.” Holidays at the “compound,” as her family calls it, are busier than the Silver Caboose on a Sunday afternoon. Mary Jean and Bob are proud parents to ten children spanning 16 years. Family meals accommodate all ten, plus spouses, 21 grandchildren and 2 greatgrandchildren. The stately home on the hill, surrounded by lush hundred year-old oaks, is alive with energy. A squirt gun on the otherwise pristine, wraparound porch speaks to little feet that must love romping around on the grassy lawn, darting behind trees to avoid the competition, taking a running jump for the rope swing that hangs November 2014
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above the pool in the side yard. Sons drop in to chat with dad. One pokes by on a riding mower with a grandchild in tow. Cotton (her son’s white lab) howls as the fire truck sirens speed down Poplar. “I love my home. I love its architecture. I love delicate dishes and wonderful antiques. But I insist that our home and our things are lived in, enjoyed. If I eat a bowl of ice cream it’s with a silver spoon. It just tastes better.” The Smiths gathered for dinner every night growing up, all 12 of them seated around a seemingly endless dining room table. She claims it can seat 22. “24 if I put two on either end. I say I never fear a burglar because if someone came in this house they’d get trampled to death.” At one point she had children in 5 different grade schools. When I ask how she managed all of that while working, she replied “well, I was mostly a robot. I just worked hard to keep them all fed, in good-fitting shoes and out the door every morning.” They all attended various colleges and universities across the U.S. “If you want something done, ask a busy person,” Mary Jean says as I ask how she, even today, manages to juggle three companies along with such a sprawling line of kin and property. “I generally run around with my hair on fire.” “I imagine you also light a fire under others occasionally, too,” I respond. She laughs out loud. “I suppose I do, but I also like to think that I accept people as they are. God didn’t create us all to be the same.”
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“My brother and I are very close,” she says of Judge William Craig Hall, Collierville’s Municipal Court Judge since 1983. “We like to go on long drives together and talk about things.” “Has he ever gotten you out of trouble?” I ask. Without a pause she quips with a southern curl in her voice, “I don’t get into trouble.” “Mary Jean,” I say, “I’m not sure if that’s a ‘yes’ or a ‘no.’” Banyan Tree Realtors has been in business for over 35 years, specializing in residences, historic homes and land. It is now located on the Square, enabling Mary Jean to easily walk across the street to tend to the restaurant as needed. Mary Jean is a lifetime member of the Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club and a charter member of the Tennessee Chapter of Realtors Land Institute. She and her husband have also renovated, Tiara, an 1845 home in Lagrange, TN, as a bed & breakfast and event venue. Mimosa, a home across the street is their next project. “Mary Jean, do you ever slow down?” I ask. “Oh no. But I insist on getting 8 hours of sleep every night.” She looks across
the parlor at her beloved Steinway piano (an impulsive purchase she made while on another of her infamous drives, this time through Mississippi). “I take that back. I like to slow down and play my piano.” She enjoys classical music as well as traditional hymns. Her current piece is a Beethoven sonata. Travel is another of her means for respite. “Europe is my favorite, but these days I’m ready to explore the West – Montana, the Dakotas.” Among her many accomplishments, she lists her children first. Decades of volunteer work all around town in numerous organizations, most notably the Collierville Arts Council, the Twentieth Century Club, the Town Board of Zoning Appeals, the Historic Square Association and the Wolf River Conservancy. Signature events credited to her labor include the annual Symphony in the Rose Garden (at her home) and the Chamber Music Series at the Sanctuary on the Square, among others. She has left her mark on real estate as well with heavy hands in the development of subdivisions Magnolias South, Little Oak Lane and Arlington Hall as well as over a dozen homes reaching into Cordova and Germantown. ++++ The secret Mary Jean shared with me earlier in our talk will go to my grave. To assure her that I am trustworthy, I shared a secret of my own – a bit of the story
photos by Katie Burriss, Webz Advertising
Mary Jean speaks of her faith frequently throughout our time together. Occasionally she gets a faraway air about her and smiles, acknowledging how very blessed her life has been. She’s been singing in the choir at Sanctuary on the Square (a Collierville United Methodist location) since she was 15, sitting in the same pew, singing the same songs. “John Aitken used to sit behind me,” she says of our new Collierville Schools superintendent. “He would make bird calls.” We laugh out loud. “He couldn’t get away with that now that we have
amplification but he used to be such a cut up.” One can easily imagine Mary Jean sternly tapping a kid on the shoulder only to slip them a free ice cream cone later at the restaurant, a wink and a quick, sly smile for only the two of them to see. Her eyes sparkle when she’s up to something.
behind this very magazine. “Necessity is the mother of invention,” she replies with a wink, and I feel as if we are somehow intuitively in sync. Our secrets aren’t the kind that assure destruction but rather the kind that creates friends. The snapshot of Mary Jean Hall Smith that we see today is the product of decades of hard work and dogmatic insistence on quality and exceptional service. Her momentum is undeniable and the mark she’s left on Collierville unmatched. In a place dominated by soccer fields and playgrounds, she serves as the sage voice to remind all of us to savor the cultural wealth all around us, to sit among the rose bushes and take in God’s great gifts, to raise children who take their hats off at the dinner table and, for goodness sake, to use the fine China. “If you don’t, someone else will.”
by Amber Lombardo, Webz Advertising
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Invite Us Call 901-451-9329 to inquire about having your event covered in our social section.
Weddings (January issue), engagement & private parties are paid inclusion. Visit www.tourcollierville.com
for prices & ordering details.
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shop/dine 34
RETAIL THERAPY
Cindi Tarsi & Lori Baioni, owners of the Pink
Nest, take you on a fan-obsessed tour of Houston Levee retailers highlighting the latest trends for tailgating season.
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HUNGRY?
Grab your grub at one of Collierville’s numerous eateries.
November 2014
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retail therapists November’s
Cindi Tarsi and Lori Baioni, owners of the Pink Nest, rounded up a few of their favorite things for Fall Tailgating season from their neighbors on Houston Levee. Special thanks to: The Pink Nest | Bella Vita | Loni’s | Lavish Eclectic Eye | Paisley Rooster | Gould’s
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University of University Tennessee oftigers! Memphis go vols! go Soxie Lous Scarf
$39 | Bella Vita
Strip Titanium-Lindberg Sunglasses $515 | Eclectic Eye
Blue & Black Sweater $154 | Loni’s
Firm Hold Shaping Spray $15 | Gould’s
Denim Tunic Dress Amy Wells Necklace
$145 | Loni’s
Orange Tunic Tank Dress
$34 | Paisley Rooster
UT Hat
$31 | Bella Vita
Color Retention Thicken Shampoo $15 | Gould’s
UT Bag
$29 | The Pink Nest
$50 | Paisley Rooster
“Go Tigers” Diana Warner Necklace $112 | Loni’s
Memphis Tigers Hat $31 | Bella Vita
Grey Side Laced Patch Hi-Lo Top $30 | The Pink Nest
Long Beach Sunglasses by Maui Jim $392 | Eclectic Eye
Bed/Stu Boot “Biltmore”
$265 | Loni’s
November 2014
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University of Mississippi go bears! Fur Scarf with Fringe
$298 | Lavish
Red Crochet Sleeve Tunic
$36 | Paisley Rooster
Deerskin • Beads • Horn Necklace
$312 | Lavish
Red Cuff Clutch
$32 | The Pink Nest
Customizable Bag
$25 | The Pink Nest
Donald J Pliner Boots in Espresso
$398 | Lavish
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Mississippi State go bulldogs! Maroon Sleeveless Shirt $88 | Loni’s
Kitzi Pearl Earrings $24 | The Pink Nest
Soxie Lous Scarf $39 | Bella Vita
Hail State Bracelet $32 | The Pink Nest
Sequin Skirt
$344 | Paisley Rooster
Lola Cruz Bootie $338 | Lavish
Chanel Aviators
$470 | Eclectic Eye November 2014
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CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL | 4600 Merchants Park Circle, Ste 141 901-854-0200 | www.carrabbas.com CHAPULTEPEC MEXICAN | 255 Byhalia Rd, Ste
101 901-854-8940
CHICK-FIL-A | 1036 W Poplar Ave 901-853-1786 | www.chick-fil-a.com CHILI’S | 237 Market Blvd
901-853-7520 | www.chilis.com
CIAO BABY PIZZA | 890 W Poplar Ave
901-457-7457 | www.ciaobabypizza.com
CICI’S PIZZA OF COLLIERVILLE | 930 W Poplar Ave, Ste 1 901-854-4030 www.cicispizza.com CITY HALL CHEESECAKE | 114 N Main St
901-457-7149 | www.cityhallcheesecake.com
? y r g n Hu
Collierville is loaded with dining options. It is time for a night out!
ARBY’S | 967 W Poplar Ave
901-854-7012 | www.arbys.com
BACK YARD BURGERS | 3662 S Houston
BONEFISH GRILL | 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Ste 200 901-854-5822 | www.bonefishgrill.com
COLLIERVILLE’S BEST HOT WINGS | 875 W Poplar Ave 901-861-9698
CORKY’S | 743 W Poplar Ave
901-405-4999 | www.corkysmemphis.com
CREPE MAKER | 4630 Merchants Park Circle 901-861-1981 | www.crepemaker.com
DOMINO’S PIZZA
OF
COLLIERVILLE | 695 W
Poplar Ave, Ste 6 901-853-5030 www.pizza.dominos.com
DONUT HUTT | 1016 W Poplar Ave
901-861-4404 | www.donuthutt.com
Levee Rd 901-861-4208 www.backyardburgers.com
BOOYA’S | 954 W Poplar Ave 901-854-9466 | www.booyasbnb.com
DYER’S CAFE | 101 N Center St
BACK YARD BURGERS | 849 W Poplar Ave
BURGER KING | 1250 W Poplar Ave 901-853-9604 | www.bk.com
EL MEZCAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT | 9947
901-853-1602
BANGKOK ALLEY | 2150 W Poplar Ave
901-854-8748 | www.bangkokalley.com
BARNES & NOBLE CAFE | 4610 Merchants Park Circle, Ste 521 901-853-3264
BASKIN ROBBINS | 915 W Poplar Ave
CAFE GRILL | 120 W Mulberry
901-853-7511 | www.cafegrillcollierville.com
CAFE PIAZZA | 139 S Rowlett St
901-861-1999 | www.cafepiazzaonline.com
CAJUN CATFISH COMPANY | 336 Byhalia Rd
901-850-7750 | www.dyerscollierville.com Wolf River Blvd, Ste 111 901-853-7922 | www.elmezcalonline.com
EL PORTON MEXICAN BAR & GRILL | 1016 W Poplar Ave 901-854-5770 www.elportonmexicanrestaurants.com
FIREBIRDS WOOD FIRED GRILL | 4600
901-861-0122 | www.cajuncatfishcompany.com
Merchants Park Circle, Ste 101 901-860-1603 | www.firebirdsrestaurants.com
Merchants Park Circle, Ste 725 901-854-6899 | www.shopcarriagecrossing.com
CAPTAIN D’S | 784 W Poplar Ave
FIREHOUSE SUBS | 910 W Poplar Ave, Ste 3
BOGIE’S DELI | 2028 W Poplar Ave
CAPTAIN JOHN’S BAR-B-QUE | 106 E Hwy 72
FUJI CAFE | 875 W Poplar Ave, Ste 19
901-853-3131 | www.baskinrobbins.com
BERRY BERRY GOOD YOGURT | 4674
901-854-8555 | www.bogiesdeli.com 38 TourCollierville.com November 2014
901-861-0353 | www.captainds.com
901-853-8004 | www.captainjohnsbbq.com
901-850-2109 | www.firehousesubs.com
901-854-7758
GOURMET PIZZA | 1996 S Houston Levee Rd, Ste 103 901-861-5455 www.gourmet-pizza.com
GREAT AMERICAN COOKIE/PRETZEL MAKER
4670 Merchants Pk. Cir, # 620 901-850-1038 www.greatamericancookies.com
GUS’S FRIED CHICKEN | 215 S Center St
901-853-6005 | www.gusfriedchicken.com
HUEY’S COLLIERVILLE | 2130 W Poplar Ave 901-854-4455 | www.hueyburger.com
MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE | 797 W Poplar Ave
901-861-7800 | www.memphispizzacafe.com
MENSI’S DAIRY BAR | 162 Washington St 901-853-2161
MILANO’S PIZZA | 9947 Wolf River Blvd, Ste 101 901-853-5305 MILANO’S PIZZA & GRILL | 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Ste 218 901-853-0555 MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL | 3600 S Houston
ICHIBAN BUFFET | 265 Market St, Ste 104
Levee Rd, Ste 106 901-457-7227 www.moes.com
IHOP | 1035 W Poplar Ave
MULAN BISTRO | 2059 S Houston Levee Rd, Ste 121 901-850-5288 www.mulanbistro.net
901-853-4288 | www.ichibanbuffettn.com 901-854-8093 | www.ihop.com
JIM’S PLACE GRILLE | 3660 S Houston Levee Rd, Ste 112 901-861-5000 www.jimsplacegrille.com JODY’S DONUT BAKERY | 1996 S Houston
Levee Rd, Ste 102 901-861-8313
KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN | 731 W Poplar Ave 901-853-9011 | www.kfc.com
KRYSTALS | 975 W Poplar Ave
901-854-0088 | www.krystal.com
LA HACIENDA MEXICAN RESTAURANT | 746 W Poplar Ave 901-850-7698
LA PERLA TAPATIA MEXICAN RESTAURANT |
2050 W Poplar Ave 901-850-7760
LEE KAN’S ASIAN GRILL | 255 Byhalia Rd 901-853-6686
LENNY’S SUB SHOP | 1016 W Poplar Ave, Ste 109 901-854-8299 | www.lennys.com
NEWK’S EXPRESS CAFE | 3680 S Houston
Levee Rd 901-861-1221 | www.newks.com
O’CHARLEY’S | 656 W Poplar Ave 901-861-5811 | www.ocharleys.com OH MY GANACHE | 616 W Poplar Ave
901-854-7022 | www.ohmyganachebakery.com
OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE | 3670 S Houston Levee Rd 901-861-4309 www.osaka-cuisine.com
PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA | 622 W Poplar Ave 901-854-6777 | www.papajohns.com
PERKINS RESTAURANT
AND
BAKERY | 960 W
Poplar Ave 901-850-0499 www.perkinsrestaurants.com
PIZZA HUT (CARRY-OUT) | 875 W Poplar Ave 901-854-5187 | www.pizzahut.com POPEYES CHICKEN & BISCUIT | 1105 W
LITTLE CAESAR’S PIZZA | 235 Byhalia Rd
901-853-3996 | www.littlecaesars.com
Poplar Ave 901-850-0135 www.popeyes.com
LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE | 3581 S Houston
QUIZNOS SUB | 2059 Houston Levee Rd,
Levee Rd 901-861-9529 www.longhornsteakhouse.com
MCALISTER’S DELI | 336 Market Blvd
901-853-1492 | www.mcalistersdeli.com
Ste 118 901-853-4009
RED ROBIN | 10211 Collierville Rd
for being voted People’s Choice
Best Hot Sauce
901-854-7645 | www.redrobin.com
RONNIE GRISANTI AT SHEFFIELD ANTIQUES
MCDONALD’S | 3675 S Houston Levee Rd
901-850-0186 | www.mcdonalds.com
MALL | 684 W Poplar Ave 901-850-0191 | www.ronniegrisantis.com
MCDONALD’S | 721 W Poplar Ave
SAM’S DONUT SHOP | 392 Byhalia Rd.
901-853-7700 | www.mcdonalds.com
TourCollierville Magazine wishes to congratulate
for three years in a row! 2012 • 2013 • 2014
www.papijoes.com
901-850-5602
November 2014
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SEKISUI | 2130 W Poplar Ave 901-854-0622 | www. sekisuiusa.com SIMPLY DONE | 111 Walnut St 901-457-7781 www. greatfoodsimplydone.com
TACO BELL
880 W Poplar Ave 901-853-3725 | www. tacobell.com
TAJ MAHAL FINE INDIAN CUISINE | 875 W Poplar Ave
SMOOTHIE KING | 3615 S
901-221-8768 tajmahalmemphis.com
SONIC DRIVE IN | 262 Hwy 72
TAKE HOME GOURMET | 2130 W Poplar Ave, Ste 105 901-853-9173 colliervillesuppers.com
Houston Levee Rd, Ste 109 901-861-0222 www.smoothieking.com 901-853-9333 www.sonicdrivein.com
SONIC DRIVE IN | 3790 S Houston Levee Rd 901-853-3509 www.sonicdrivein.com
TCBY | 2059 Houston Levee Rd, Ste 116 901-861-1710 | www.store. tcby.com THE SILVER CABOOSE | 132 E
SQUARE BEANS COFFEE
Mulberry St 901-853-0010 | www. silvercaboose.com
STARBUCKS COFFEE
W Poplar Ave 901-457-7134 | www. tonystrophyroom.com
103 N Center St 901-854-8855 www.squarebeans.com 897 W Poplar Ave 901-861-2762 www.starbucks.com
TONY’S TROPHY ROOM | 929
WENDY’S | 714 W Poplar Ave
STARBUCKS COFFEE
901-854-6037 | www. wendys.com
STEAK ESCAPE
WHALEY’S | 255 Byhalia Rd 901-854-7770 | www. whaleyspizza.com
3606 S HoustonLevee Rd 901-850-1604
3581 S Houston Levee Rd 901-853-1655 www.steakescape.com
STIX JAPANESE RESTAURANT
4680 Merchants Park Circle, Ste 202 901-854-3399
YOGURT NATION | 890 W Poplar Ave, Ste 9 901-457-7065
YOLO FROZEN YOGURT | 102 E Mulberry St 901-861-0037 | www. yolofroyo.com
SUBWAY | 325 Byhalia Rd 901-853-6039 | www. subway.com
YUM’S | 787 W Poplar Ave
SUBWAY | 1996 S Houston
901-850-5103 | www. zaxbys.com
Levee Rd, Ste 105 901-850-1411 | www. subway.com
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901-854-8880
ZAXBY’S | 375 Byhalia Rd
A Style for Every Story! 3670 S Houston Levee Rd next door to Gould’s 901.316.5184
civic
2
GAME ON.
The story of the Collierville Schools formation is so much larger than life. We distill it down to a football game play-by-play commentary complete with Superintendent John Aitken starring as quarterback.
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QUEEN ASHLEY
Collierville High Special Education student, Ashley Lawhorn, bows to an adoring student body audience, humbled that their votes spoke their hearts.
50
MEET THE CANDIDATES
Four men vie for two alderman positions. Get a feeling for their qualifications and get out the vote!
52
LOCAL COLOR
Morton Museum Director Ashley Carver admits that her guilty pleasure is reading old editions of the Collierville Herald on a Friday afternoon as she unwinds. She shares one of the most curious that would most certainly attract the wrong kind of attention today!
54
BRILLIANCE
The Town’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts department hosts a litany of activities throughout the year but the holiday season is their shining star. See what’s coming up!
56
SQUARE LIVING
Collierville is known for its downtown square, rich with history and alive with commerce. See what Main Street Collierville is doing to enhance that and why America voted it their favorite in Parade Magazine.
November 2014
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Chocolate chess pie from the Silver Caboose. That’s what we decided. Along with a lovely handwritten note on our personal stationary. You can never go wrong with pie. So I stood there holding my pie. On a Tuesday morning. In what felt like the principal’s office. A better person would have appeared Monday morning but it took us an extra day to determine exactly the best approach. There are no etiquette books that address this scenario. Nothing even comes close. 42
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photos by Michael Allen, Webz Advertising
Game On.
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I interviewed John Aitken about a week prior, thrilled to speak with Collierville’s education hero. He was very professional and well spoken, easy-going and a great conversationalist. I had heard that he occasionally dressed as Elvis so I took a deep breath and asked if he would dress out with the football team at their opening home game. Without hesitation he said “why, sure!” Wow – that was simple enough, I thought. I saw that going differently. Coach Mike O’Neill and the football boosters were all on board and immediately began to make arrangements. The school board, mayor, aldermen and town administrator were all invited – an alignment of the photographic planets. A call from Coach O’Neill on the day of the game only escalated our excitement: the team had received brand new uniforms from Adidas that morning and they had no idea. Now the new superintendent was to dress out with them at their first home game, in their shiny new uniforms. He would then stand at halftime, flanked by all of the major players in the formation of our new school district. This would be a crowd-pleaser for sure! As the team gathered in the entry tunnel on game night, one player’s head towered above the others by a least a foot. The visiting team must have thought the dragons had enrolled a giant. Smoke billowed from the entrance as the players began to sway and jump and chant. The band played the fight song and the cheerleaders shouted and leaped. On cue, the players proudly ran onto the field in their new uniforms and the crowd stood, cheering and clapping. The last player to enter the field was announced with rumbling energy by Charlie Keffler: “COLLIERVILLE SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT, Joooohnnnnnnn AITKEN!” The crowd cheered even louder as the 6’9” Aitken entered the 44
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field in football pads and a jersey… all obviously sized for someone far smaller. The fabric stretched tight across his torso and the pads perched precariously atop his tall, stout, towering frame. His jersey was emblazoned with the only number the coach would allow no other player to wear. John Aitken is a man of his word and would not be deterred. He ran proudly onto that field, lifted his hands high in the air, and rallied those onlookers. In typical 95 degree Memphis heat, dripping with sweat and out of breath, he then trotted over to let us shoot his photo for the magazine cover. He played to the camera as if he had somehow channeled a professional athlete posing for a Gatorade ad, alternating growls and grimaces with howls of laughter and his trademark baritone voice. “Lombardo, you owe me!” he barked. Admirers gathered around and requested selfies for their social media pages. The booster president, Jim Van de Vuurst, declared that he was going to forward the phone calls to me. Gulp. * In December 2013, John Aitken became Superintendent of the newly formed Collierville Schools by unanimous vote of the Collierville School Board. That meeting was a cornerstone in one of Collierville’s most epic gridiron battles on the education playing field. The first half of the game spanned some 20 years, maybe more. For decades there have been struggles with the Shelby County Schools and the Memphis City Schools over funding choices, use of resources, quality of programming, leadership accountability and more. As suburban populations grew and higher property values began to emerge outside the city limits, its disposition shifted along with its tax base. Each team had extraordinarily
1 2
valid positions: those paying higher taxes demanded better school systems. Those paying lower taxes needed better school systems. Both teams rallied all of their resources and, for decades, the struggle continued – all the way to federal court. On December 20, 2010, the Memphis School Board voted by a 5-4 margin to surrender its charter pending voter approval, which soon followed in 2011. The Shelby County Board of Education challenged the move by filing a lawsuit but was unable to convince U.S. District Judge Samuel “Hardy” Mays. So the Shelby County Board of Education adapted, forming a 21-member transition team to manage both districts and began
as a newly consolidated unit that July. The first quarter closed with a setback for the suburbs. The second quarter of the game began as the Republican Party gained yardage. In February 2011, the Norris-Todd Bill was passed, a play spearheaded by state Senator Mark Norris in the Senate (SB25) and, by Rep. Curry Todd in the House (HB51). The hotly opposed bill would delay Shelby County consolidation, create a planning commission to facilitate the situation and ultimately allow the county suburbs to form special school districts. The field continued to heat up as a national spotlight began to shine on the scuttle. Assistant professor
Michelle Wilde Anderson from UC Berkeley Law School published an article in the Columbus Law Review disparaging the intent and the outcome of the act: “NorrisTodd hobbles the combined district, favoring the strongest area suburbs over metropolitan Memphis as a whole.” The New York Times claimed that the merger would “revive race and class challenges,” complicating the situation and fueling countless heated debates. Legislators and lawyers inched their way back and forth. Media outlets were dominated by every detail of the epic battle yet the day-to-day still happened in Shelby County Schools under the leadership of its then Superintendent, John
3
photos courtesy of Collierville Schools
1: The Collierville School Board visits with Senator Mark Norris during the TSBA’s Day on the Hill. 2: Aitken squeezes into a desk on the first day of class. 3: Fun day of reading at Crosswind Elementary with guests Morgan Cox (Baltimore Ravens long snapper and player in Super Bowl XLVII victory) and Senator Mark Morris. November 2014
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Aitken. As time marched on, the divided 23-member board of the provisional Shelby County Unified School System battled over the decision to continue Aitken’s contract and ultimately chose to extend a buyout package at his request. On March 26, 2013, with media cameras all around, Mr. A bid an emotional farewell to Shelby County Schools. During a muchpublicized speech thanking all of his supporters and wishing well those who remained, he choked through words of gratitude about all of the sacrifices made by his family and then, in classic Aitken fashion, quipped that maybe he would do a better job if he sang his thoughts. Onlookers chuckled and cameras snapped. Supporters and contenders were all well aware this move would be bittersweet. Halftime. The following months Aitken served as a consultant to the Collierville, Germantown, Arlington, and Lakeland suburbs as they began the building process to prepare for their new day. During this time Aitken became “the most sought-after man in the suburbs,” as stated by the Memphis FOX affiliate. He received several offers and even considered retirement but announced in December 2013, his commitment to his hometown of Collierville as its new Superintendent with a start date of January 1, 2014. A vacant office in the Collierville Town Hall is where he began in earnest to execute the plans he had helped compose. Finally, he was able to move, along with 45 of his new hires into the former Collierville Middle School building even as scaffolding and renovations continued. Borrowed furniture was embellished with personal mementos by each staff member as they worked and waited for needed funding to flow. An open house celebrated each step towards fruition. When asked if there is a playbook for building a school system, Aitken chuckled, nodded his head as if recalling some particularly tough puzzle and said simply “nope.” The six superintendents met regularly starting in January of 2014 and looked to a feasibility study commissioned
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from Aitken’s former boss, Dr. James B. Mitchell, Jr. of Southern Educational Strategies. Detractors watched and waited to see how they would work through it all. Aitken became known for his pep talks, encouraging everyone about their abilities and reminding them how many people were counting on them to come through. The final quarter of the game began during the summer of 2014. The “messy middle” came as much-needed services had to be sliced from a profoundly delicate budget and contracts had to be transitioned from Shelby County Schools to the new district. 787 employees and 494 teachers were hired, creating a human-resources influx puzzle greater than anyone could imagine. Aitken and his team picked through every single quandary, every transfer of student records, every retirement account, every bus route, and every ounce of food. Federal funds would be delayed for quite some time but the Town of Collierville, having the foresight to prepare its tax revenue budget, generously filled the need. At a Collierville Chamber of Commerce luncheon in August 2014, Aitken described a Shared Services Model wherein Collierville, Bartlett and Arlington would each provide a portion of the needed services. Collierville’s slice included transportation, nutrition and PowerSchool/SMS services. A week before school began, the transportation contract had not yet been signed and teamsters threatened to strike. Aitken and his team rallied and worked. The Hail Mary pass was thrown and landed as final negotiations concluded on Friday afternoon, three days before the doors opened. Touchdown. As the game ended and Monday morning arrived, the school doors opened and students flooded the field. Aitken beamed. Expected hiccups occurred, as every school year they do, but were met with renewed optimism as the faces of Collierville’s children reminded every single individual about why all of this occurred in the first place. Scrunched in short little desks for photo ops and kneeling down to put his giant arms around huddles of kids, John Aitken welcomed every person, every compliment, every complaint. He proudly declared
that he had eaten in every cafeteria and
reassured every one of the district’s high nutritional standards. Bus routes were
refined over time and, today, the school bell
rings with barely a noticeable ripple to the ordinary citizen.
This was an epic battle in the field of education and it concluded with one righteous homecoming. *
You see, the 2014 Collierville varsity football team had received only a couple of spare uniforms for their opening home game.
Rather than snag a player’s hard-earned
jersey, Mr. A took the only jersey available
– ill- fitting and even worse numbered. He wore it proudly and lit a fire that night at
Dragon stadium that ushered in not only a new season for the football team but
also a new life for the Collierville Schools
District. When I showed up three days later with that chocolate chess pie, unsure of his reaction, he met me with a hearty chuckle
and hefty smack to his belly. Wearing that uniform was barely a speck in the grand scheme of things.
Mr. A had one more generous gesture that day – declaring that he would take that
delicious pie to the Collierville School Board meeting that night and share it with his
teammates. I’m not sure if he also needed to deliver a little taste of humility to his
leadership or if it was just a kind gesture
but what I know for sure is that this town
is deeply grateful for his choices – to run on
that field, to withstand the kind of pressures only he knows, to stay in the game in spite of intense personal and national scrutiny, to ultimately choose Collierville as his
education home, and to share every last slice of his humble pie.
by Amber Lombardo, Webz Advertising In case you overlooked it, Mary Jean Smith, owner of the Silver Caboose, shared her recipe for Chocolate Chess Pie on page 31. We suggested she change the name to “Humble Pie.”
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photos by Michael Allen, Webz Advertising
Queen Ashley 48
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ASHLEY LAWHORN COLLIERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING QUEEN 2014
She can’t help but think about typical teenagers and their typical lives, having typical phone calls with their typical friends. But on September 19, 2014, Ashley Lawhorn, a senior at Collierville High School, had a not-so-typical day.
:KHQ DVNHG KRZ WKLV IXOΚOOHG GUHDP FDQ VSHDN WR RWKHU JLUOV $VKOH\ VDLG ˕, GLGQ˒W NQRZ LI , FRXOG ΚW LQWR this kind of world as a teenager girl. Ever since I was a little girl I didn’t know - but I can. I did. And so can other teenager girls.� Tamakin Miller, her mother, is proud. “I didn’t know she could answer that,� she said with a smile.
photos courtesy of RogerCotton.com
Ashley is a special education student at Collierville High. She never expected to have an opportunity to wear a crown in one of America’s most beloved football season traditions but the student body clearly voted with their hearts. As she and her escort, Gray +DQVRQ SURFHHGHG DFURVV WKH ΚHOG WKH DXGLHQFH cheered in anticipation of the announcement. The soon-to-be queen bowed in appreciation.
Ashley says it seemed like an eternity as the winner ZDV DQQRXQFHG EXW ZKHQ VKH KHDUG WKH ΚUVW VRXQG RI KHU QDPH KHU KHDUW OHDSHG FDPHUDV ΛDVKHG DQG her friends & family applauded enthusiastically. Her mother cried and her teachers choked back humbled tears.
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M
EET THE
CANDIDATES
ALDERMAN POSITION 2
BP ILLY
ATTON
INCUMBENT
Billy Patton and his wife, Dr Amy Patton (Pharm D), moved to Collierville 15 years ago, shortly after he was hired by FedEx to work in their new World Tech Center located in Collierville. He has been actively involved in the community, and became a graduate of Leadership Collierville in 2008. Alderman Patton has served on the Collierville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, BancorpSouth Community Bank Board, and several Town boards including the Collierville Beer Board, Design Review Commission (DRC), and is currently serving his third year on the Town Library Board. He completed an apprenticeship under the U.S. Navy and Ingalls Shipbuilding, afterwards obtaining both a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Computer Science Engineering from The University of Mississippi. In 1998 he was the recipient of the Richard E. Grove Award for Computer Science Excellency. Hired by FedEx out of Ole Miss, he was assigned to the World Tech Center in Collierville in 1999. He was named as an employee of the Month for Y2K upgrades in 2000. He founded Patton Computers in 2002, and left FedEx in 2007 to dedicate more time to his business. He also serves as Post Master of a contract postal unit (CPU) established in 2008. The Patton family actively supports Collierville High School Athletics, and various other Collierville organizations. They live in the Longwood subdivision and he is an active member of The Pentecostal Church of Memphis. Billy and Amy have been married for 23 years and are parents to Emily and William, who attend Schilling Farms Middle School and Crosswind Elementary School. Phone Number for Voter’s questions – 901-238-0002 Website: www.VoteBillyPatton.com Email: Billy.Patton@gmail.com
J S OHN
TAMPS
John was raised in the Collierville area and has always called Collierville home. With John’s career, he has lived in Boston, Detroit, Colorado and Hawaii and has traveled throughout Europe, Australia, Korea, Japan, and Africa. Yet, John suffered the “Dorothy Syndrome” from the Wizard of Oz …”There is no place like home.” Eventually, John made his way home to Collierville and he and his wife Kathy (who works at Bailey Station Elementary) bought their first house together when they married in 1995. They have two children, Brooke and Thomas. John is a fourth generation Colliervillian…following a long line of Stamps’. Over these four generations his family has had a positive impact on Collierville’s history. His family has been involved in the community as merchants, business owners, and community leaders. John is now putting his mark on Collierville with his business, Stamps Real Estate which is located in the Historic Town Square. John has held numerous positions with professional organizations, such as the Memphis Area Association of Realtors where he’s been the Chairman of Governmental Affairs. He is also a Director for the Tennessee Association of Realtors. John’s community involvement includes: Graduate of Leadership Collierville and has also served on its Board; Served as Chairman of the Board of Zoning Affairs; a member of the 2040 Land Use Steering Committee; and, has served on the Planning and Historic Commission. John and his family are part of Central Church here in Collierville and they are very involved in our community, in particularly with the Down Syndrome Association. John helped start a support group for fathers who have children with Down Syndrome called DADS (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome). Phone Number for Voter’s questions – 901-230-7901 Website: www.JohnStamps.com Email: John@JohnStamps.com
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ELECTION DAY • NOVEMBER 4, 2014 • 7AM-7PM
ALDERMAN POSITION 4
TA OM
LLEN
INCUMBENT
Tom Allen and his wife, Getella, moved to Collierville in 1989 and just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They have two children, five grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren. Tom holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree from Tennessee Tech. He was a regional manager for Arcadian Corporation for over 30 years before retiring in 1997. Previously he was owner of a Computer store. An active community volunteer since 1990, Alderman Allen was a founding member of the re-established Collierville Republican Club, serving as President. He was a charter member of the Collierville’s Schilling Farms YMCA, charter member and Vice President of the Collierville Lion's Club. Throughout his eight years serving the Town as Alderman, Mr. Allen has served on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan Committee, Collierville Planning Commission, the Industrial Development Board, Library Board, Collierville Arts Council, Parks Advisory Board and currently serves on the Design Review Commission. He is a U. S. Army veteran and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. A graduate of Leadership Collierville, the Allen’s are members of the Germantown Church of Christ. Phone Number for Voter’s questions – 901-604-3414 Website: www.VoteTomAllen.com Email: Tom@TZAllen.com
G C REG
OTTON
Greg Cotton and his wife, Debbie, have been Collierville residents for sixteen years. They have four children and four grandchildren. Greg founded the Cotton Law Firm in 1990. He concentrates his practice in the areas of corporate litigation, personal injury, probate, and domestic relations. Mr. Cotton earned his B.A. degree from the University of Alabama and his J.D. degree from the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. He is a member of the Memphis and Shelby County, Birmingham, Tennessee, and Alabama State Bars as well as various Federal Courts, including the United States Supreme Court Bar. Greg is a member of the Second Baptist Church where he serves as Trustee and served as a Sunday School Teacher for many years. Greg is currently serving his second year on the Town Planning Commission, Board of Directors for The Collierville Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors for Family Promise, the President of the Touchdown Club of Memphis. Prior to his service on the Town Planning Commission, he served several years on the Beer Board. He sits as a Special General Sessions Court Judge in Shelby County, is certified by the Tennessee Supreme Court as a Rule 31 Certified Mediator, and lecturer for the National Business Institute. Phone Number for Voter’s questions – 901-219-2425 Website: www.CottonForAlderman.com Email: Cotton4Alderman@gmail.com
THE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE OF THE COLLIERVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
provides a service both to the voters and the candidates by providing a forum for communication. We present unbiased nonpartisan information about elections, the voting process, and issues. We invited our candidates to participate in interviews moderated by Dave Nelson, taped by Jeff Robbins, Collierville High School, and assistants, students Hunter Youngblood and Joshua Tow. The questions used for the interviews were compiled by the Memphis/Shelby County League of Women Voters. The interviews will be broadcast on the Collierville public access TV channels and posted on social media. We will also have these interviews on DVDs at the Chamber and Collierville Library for citizens who do not have access to Collierville public access TV channels. November 2014 TourCollierville.com 51
The Morton Museum of Collierville History is our community museum; our backyard museum. It’s a place where kids can learn to make homemade ice cream (Collierville Dairy Day 2014), students can showcase their musical accomplishments (CHS Orchestra Performance), gardeners can show off their green thumb (Shelby East Garden Club 2014 Flower Show), and visitors can learn that their beloved childhood toy, the Wonder Horse, was made in Collierville. The Museum’s mission is to preserve the Town’s history by holding artifacts in trust 52
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for the public, and providing the widest possible access to those items. The museum building itself exemplifies its mission. The building and its architectural features have been beautifully restored and it’s doors are open to the community with free admission and free programs for all. It is by far the crowed jewel in the Town’s collection!
The Morton Museum is more than just a static piece of Town history. Last year more than 5,000 visitors come to the Museum to enjoy free programs, exhibits, and events. Join us on December 6th from 10am4pm for a viewing of The Polar Express and making snow globe as we explore Collierville’s train history. Collierville is steeped in great history. One resource the Museum has for creating new exhibits and program ideas is the local Collierville Herald. Thanks to generous community donations, the Museum recently digitized copies of the Collierville Herald from first issue on March 1, 1929 to 1980. I must confess, it is my guilty pleasure after a long week to take a few hours on Friday afternoon to peruse the Heralds looking for a forgotten story. One of my favorites is
the Chicken Rodeo held in January 1933.
For this you should know the Bandstand
mentioned in the article was a two-story pavilion that stood where the current gazebo is in Town Square.
Stop by the Museum and let us know you’d like to look at the digitized Collierville Heralds. Museum staff would love
to show you! Editions from 1929 and
1930 are available on the Museum’s
online catalog. Simply go to www.
ColliervilleMusuem.org and select “Digital Collections” on the left-hand side.
by Ashley Carver, Director, Morton Museum of Collierville History
1: A clipping of the Collierville Herald from January 1933. 2: Gazebo, 1939. This photograph was taken by Paul Madison Wilson’s father, it shows the two-story bandstand that resided in the center of the Town Square; it was destroyed by a tornado in the fall of 1955. The gazebo that replaced the two-story structure is now at W.C. Johnson Park. The current gazebo was erected in 1967. On the right-side of the image, you can see the cotton barrels at the Depot.
photo courtesy of The Paul Madison Wilson Collection
1 Since the 1870’s, the Collierville Christian Church has been a defining landmark and gateway welcoming visitors to Collierville’s Historic Downtown. Affectionately known as the “White Church,” its members worshiped here from 1873 until 1991. Former lives also included an antique shop and upscale eatery. The building got the TLC it desperately needed when it was repurposed by the Town of Collierville and opened as the Morton Museum of Collierville History in June 2012.
Local Color
2
To present to the public, especially young people, the historical and cultural backgrounds of the Bible, the living word of God, is
Our Mission
140 East Mulberry Street • Collierville, TN 38017 • (901) 854-9578 www.biblical-museum.org
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Brilliance
Collierville shines during the holiday season
What a magical time it is to live or visit Collierville! It’s almost Christmas season and the square will come alive with lights at the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 2 at 5:30 p.m. The Mayor and Board of Alderman invite you to attend this special event and have a cup of hot chocolate while you listen to our own Collierville school choirs perform songs of the holidays. Santa will join the festivities at 7:00 p.m. to turn on the lights, hear all the children’s Christmas wish lists, and be available for pictures.
On Friday, December 5, the excitement continues with the Town of Collierville 38th Annual Christmas Parade. The parade begins at 7:00 p.m. at the corner of Byhalia Road and Market Street and moves north on Byhalia Road to Frank Road. On December 6 and December 13, to enhance your shopping and dining experience, the Town Square will feel like a scene from Dickens Christmas Carol with strolling carolers, FREE carriage rides and 54
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Santa in his big red chair in the gazebo. Also on December 13, the Contemporary Club will host their annual Tour of Homes and Christmas Bazaar. Tickets can be purchased at the Morton Museum. You may also purchase your Christmas gifts at the Contemporary Clubs bazaar as well as your “LiveLifeLocal 38017” tee-shirts. The “LiveLifeLocal 38017” teeshirts may also be purchased at The Brooks Collection, My Town Tees, The Chamber of Commerce and Bazaar/a crazy little food shop at Carriage Crossing. The Collierville Arts Council presents the
Best Christmas Pageant Ever! running December 12-21.
After the holidays, the Town of Collierville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department has plenty of events for your family to enjoy. On January 16, we will offer our Mother/Son Bowling night. This event is held at Funquest Bowling Center and starts at 6:00 p.m. There will be trophies for our top three Mother/Son
high-scoring teams. Not to be left out, our Father/Daughter Dinner Dance will be held on February 6. This amazing night is filled with lots of great food and fun dancing including a dance instructor to teach girls (and Fathers) the latest moves.
Continuing on through the year, we offer Kollierville Kite Day (March 21), Collierville Youth Fishing Rodeo (May 9), and the Arts Council’s Star Spangled Review (June 27-28). To round out the year, the Parks department will offer the annual Independence Day Celebration (July 3). For more information about any of the events listed or for sports and programing information, please visit www.colliervilleparks.org or call 901-457-2770.
by Sheila Moody, Collierville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts
WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
HOLISTIC ESTATE & BUSINESS PLANNING DESIGNED TO MEET YOUR GOALS
GREG
COTTON PROTECT HERITAGE & HISTORY
I am committed to preserving, protecting, & promoting our town’s history and heritage through preservation & planned growth. SUPPORT MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
High quality education attracts high quality residence & businesses. I understand the importance of our locally controlled education system & the impact of its quality on our children. PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM
As a business owner, I understand what businesses look for when deciding where to locate. I am committed to working to create a business friendly local government that works closely with state and county bodies to obtain community goals. FOCUS ON COMMUNITY SAFETY
MATTHEW F. VANCLEVE, J.D.
A safe community is a thriving community. I am committed to renewing our infrastructure by working to build a modern, strong and highly visible police department, & a responsive, cuttingedge fire department. MAINTAIN CURRENT TAX RATES
6363 POPLAR AVENUE SUITE 220 MEMPHIS, TN 38119
An increase in the tax base is accomplished through the residential and business growth. I am committed to being a good steward of the town’s tax dollars & not increasing taxes unless absolutely necessary for the success of Collierville.
COLLIERVILLE 901-861-0108 GoddardSchool.com
PHONE 901.355.4192 MVANCLEVE@ALLIANCEMEMPHIS.COM
NOW ENROLLING!
COTTONFORALDERMAN.COM
The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2014
November 2014
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Square Living 1
2
in our charming historic district
Whether you are enjoying a meal, scouting for antiques, shopping for boutique gifts, learning about the history of the area or just strolling around enjoying a beautiful afternoon, Collierville is definitely a place that keeps welcoming visitors and residents to enjoy the southern hospitality of this enchanting Main Street Community.
Strolling past the gazebo on a Friday night is the perfect time to listen to Bluegrass music wafting out from underneath the trees. A Saturday in December brings images of a Dickens Christmas as carolers stroll along serenading shoppers who are taking a break with a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. Sitting outside a quaint local coffee shop watching friends and neighbors pass by is the place to see old trains and a historic park. The awardwinning summertime Thursday night concert series is a signature event of Main Street that welcomes guests, young and old alike, to gather in the park and enjoy music. From the Civil War walking trail telling the story of the Battle of Collierville to the quaint boutiques and gift shops that line the Town Square, this charming town has 56
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managed to blend the old with the new in a way few towns have been able to manage. There are restaurants and antique stores perfect for browsing. Photography studios, personal training facilities and a yoga studio bring folks from all walks of life into the historic district of Collierville. There are beautiful churches nearly a century and a half old scattered around the town square. One is the town museum. Another is an event venue and two more still house active congregations each Sunday morning, sitting in the same pews and looking through the same stained glass windows that their great-great grandparents did just after the Civil war. There are train cars and an old train depot reminiscent of the days when trains were the king of transportation. “It is the mix of entrepreneurs and visitors in historic downtown Collierville that keep this area vibrant and alive,” says Laura Todd, Director of Main Street Collierville, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and preserve the historic downtown area. “Our downtown is the heartbeat of Collierville and the mix of activities, people, and history makes it an interesting place to “Live Life Local.”
Main Street Collierville markets the downtown and historic district to establish a unified image and encourage an exciting variety of activities for all members of the community. Collierville’s downtown is the “real deal” to enjoy a unique shopping and dining experience. Local residents and visitors both can enjoy the cultural opportunities in our Historic District. As part of the National Main Street Movement, we have the collusion of the arts, entrepreneurs and heritage tourism of a thriving cultural economy. Check our website www.mainstreetcollierville.org for upcoming events.
by Laura Todd, Main Street Collierville Executive Director 1: The “Mural on Main “ project was funded by Tennessee Main Street innovation grant and
Main Street Collierville. 2: Patrice Frey, Presi-
dent and CEO of the National Main Street Center, congratulates Main Street Collierville.
business &industry 58
OUR UNITY CREATES COMMUNITY
The Collierville Chamber of Commerce serves the
business community through a variety of outreach, training and networking opportunities. Chairman Matthew VanCleve talks a bit about what makes our chamber special.
60
ACCESS: ORGANIZED FOR SUCCESS
Collierville’s new Economic Development Director, John Duncan, loves stats. He shares a few with us along with major milestones that have catapulted our town to be one of the most attractive for industry site selection.
62
MAKE COLLIERVILLE HOME
Vice-mayor and realtor, Maureen Fraser, talks about the value of real estate in Collierville and why investment here is not only prudent but promises an unmatched quality of life.
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Community Our Unity Creates
As the Chairman of the Collierville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, I am honored and humbled to be part of such an impressive group of community and business leaders. It is through their leadership, and the hard work of our staff and volunteers that our Chamber continues to prosper. Our Chamber, established in 1968, is made up of approximately 750 small, medium, and large businesses that represent various industries and organizations. Our strength comes from our “small town” philosophy of cooperation and hard work. The Collierville Chamber of Commerce has a willingness to adapt, listen, and build upon the strong foundation of those leaders before us. It is one of the premier business organizations in the area and is used as a model for other organizations. It is the unity of this diverse group that creates our business community. My position as Chairman of the Board began in January… during these ten months our Chamber staff and Board has worked alongside state and local elected officials, Town administration, the Greater Memphis Chamber and our Alliance of Shelby County Chambers to impact the economic landscape of Collierville and the region. 58
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The Chamber of Commerce is constantly working to add value for our members. We provide networking and business development opportunities that drive business and help our members grow in their careers. We are improving our Chamber building to allow for distance learning and conferencing. We provide a job bank where Collierville businesses can find qualified, local prospects, keeping Collierville employed. It is our goal to provide our members with more than they expect from a typical chamber membership. Our Chamber has positioned itself to be a vital resource for our members and serves as a major conduit in the economic development of our Town. Leading the economic development charge for our Chamber are executive board members, Terry Cochran and Mike Sayres, in the production of the second of three videos highlighting businesses headquartered in Collierville. This video promotes the Town’s business friendly environment and why Collierville was ultimately chosen as their base of operations. Look for this video to be posted on ColliervilleChamber.com and Collierville.com. John Duncan, Collierville’s newly hired Economic Development Director, and the Chamber
are working together to leverage Collierville’s assets to retain and attract businesses to our Town.
Collierville Magazine, produced annually by the Chamber, with a welcome from the Mayor, has been a resource for our citizens and businesses since 1989, and can be viewed and downloaded on ColliervilleChamber.com. Each edition contains important information about the Chamber, the Town, businesses and nonprofits, with featured articles about leaders in our community and a directory of our Chamber membership. Our Business Expo, celebrating its 25th anniversary, was held on October 23 featuring over 100 vendors with approximately 1,500 visitors – this is a perfect example of our Town, Chamber and community working together to build, better business opportunities. Our Chamber is investing in our future… ”Our Unity Creates Community”
by Matthew VanCleve, Collierville Chamber Chairman of the Board
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COLLIERVILLE ARTS COUNCIL PRESENTS
WORSTBEST
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the
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ICE ’S CHO PEOPLE
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S IN 3 YEAR 13•2014 2012•20
GET SAUCED!
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DECEMBER 12-21 HARRELL THEATRE 440 W Powell Rd. • Collierville, TN
www.harrelltheatre.org Adults $20, Seniors & Students $15
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Access
Organized for Success
As I researched and reflected on what exactly is Collierville’s differentiator, as it relates to economic development and everything that ED means, the word access repeatedly jumped to the forefront. Sitting at the crossroads of SR-385, I-269 and Highway 72, in the southeastern corner of the county that is the distribution capital of the United States, Collierville’s strategic location provides ready access to markets, clients, prospects and the quadramodal assets of Memphis, the river, runway, rail and road systems. From a business perspective, especially any organization looking for a competitive edge as it relates to time to market, Collierville is the spot! From Collierville…
• More than 35% of the key US Metro Markets (152+) can be served overnight, by truck, from Collierville. • 45 states are within two-day truck service from Collierville. • The FedEx Express Memphis World Hub, located 20 minutes from the Collierville town line, provides 24/7 access to the world! • There are 5 Class One Rail systems operating facilities in the Memphis area (UP, BNSF, CSX, NS, CN), with the Norfolk Southern Intermodal Rail Yard located 5 miles southeast of the Collierville town line. • The mighty Mississippi, with the 4th. 60
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largest inland port located in Memphis, is easily accessed from Collierville.
In addition to this tremendous competitive advantage as it relates to location and access, Tennessee and the Memphis area consistently score high when it comes to the costs of doing business. • Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLG&W) customers pay the lowest utility bills, including electricity and natural gas, in the nation, according to a 2013 survey of 50 utilities. • According to the Office of Revenue Analysis for the District of Columbia (2013), the State of Tennessee has the 3rd. lowest tax burden in the U.S. (7.7%) and does NOT impose a state income tax. • KPMG’s “Low Cost Cities to do Business” analysis (2013) ranked Memphis (95.8) as the 5th. most cost friendly metro area in the 1-2 million category. The access concept does not stop with our strategic location. In Collierville, you have access to award winning schools, safe neighborhoods, 750+ acres of parkland and trails, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer golf, and as The Demand Institute cited in their 2014 study, a Cosmopolitan City! Access to the Collierville lifestyle is an incredible recruiting and retention tool
for organizations looking to expand and relocate in the area. • In 2014, the award winning Collierville Schools established a new municipal school system. • Movoto (2014) ranked Collierville as the 5th safest city in Tennessee and the 3rd safest for violent crimes. • The historic downtown Town Square was named by Parade Magazine in 2014, as the “Best Main Street in America.” • The University of Memphis Collierville campus, will open in the 1st quarter, 2015. It remains our goal in economic development to strategically blend our small town atmosphere and traditions with corporate, retail, industrial and residential development. We will pursue office clients, from corporate headquarters to regional and district offices…logistics and distribution related businesses…light manufacturing…healthcare partners, especially focusing on rehabilitative, therapeutic and orthopedic concerns. Life really is all about ACCESS, and in Collierville, Tennessee, we proudly provide that strategic component.
by John Duncan, Town of Collierville Director of Economic Development
JOHN
FOUR GENERATIONS OF COLLIERVILLE LEADERSHIP.
STAMPS
COLLIERVILLE ALDERMAN
SMART GROWTH
Our development in residential, commercial, and industrial areas is my main focus. I want to be in the position to help foster this smart growth for the betterment of our community.
PRESERVATION
The spirit of our community makes us truly unique. We are able to cultivate many technological & industrial advances while maintaining our small town Southern charm.
VOLUNTEERISM
I understand the importance of supporting our town’s various boards and activities. I take pride in volunteering with many associations for the betterment of our town.
PLEASE VOTE NOVEMBER 4 (EARLY VOTING OCTOBER 15-30)
PLATFORM
I was raised here, I live here, I shop here and I opened my business here. My grandfather was the mayor of the Town of Collierville in the 1950s. I am currently on the Collierville Planning Commision and was on the Steering Committee for the 2040 Land Use Plan for the Town of Collierville. I would love the opportunity to continue growing with Collierville.
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Make Collierville
Home Purchasing a home is definitely one of the
biggest investments you make. According to the Memphis Area Association of
Realtors, the average sales price for
homes sold in Collierville, thus far in 2014,
is $309,264, up 3.3% from this time a year
ago. The number of homes sold has
increased 10.5%, with 877 homes sold in 2014 compared to 794 last year. The
average number of days on the market, from listing to closing, is 79 days.
These statistics are extremely important; however, there is so much more to
purchasing or selling a home than square
footage, number of bathrooms or even the size of the backyard. Your home defines
you, it tells others who you are and what you are all about. It is your sanctuary,
where you feel safe and comfortable. It is
where you are excited to be and proud to live.
Beyond that, your home is part of a
neighborhood and a larger community. With strong neighborhood associations in Collierville, residents shape their
community--you and your neighbors define
and mold what your community is and will be. 62
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The Town of Collierville is home to over 48,000 residents, yet still has plenty of room for more!
The reasons you moved to Collierville may be completely different from others, but many move to the area because of the incredible education, in both our Collierville Municipal and private schools; the immaculate parks and green spaces all around town; the best youth athletic programs in the state; the helpfulness of our Town employees; the extremely low crime statistics; federally accredited police and fire departments that remain the priority for our citizens' tax dollars, and a Moody’s AAA bond rating that ensures sound fiscal management of taxpayer dollars. At the same time, many move to Collierville to be closer to relatives or places of employment, whether it be our major corporations such as the FedEx World Tech Center, Helena Chemical, Carrier Corporation, MCR Safety Products or our many, many small businesses; or it could be because of the historic and beautiful Town Square, recently named the “America's Best Main Street” by Parade Magazine. with its vibrant merchant community and
strong preservation efforts through Main Street Collierville,
With the vast array of restaurants and
retail available around Collierville and at our beautiful “lifestyle shopping center,”
Carriage Crossing, I have always said we really do have everything we need in
Collierville. But, if it's not in Collierville, it is less than 30 minutes away!
You define your community! You need to
decide how you are going to give back to your community. We hope you continue to shape and mold Collierville for even greater opportunities in the future.
Collierville truly is “A Place to Call
Home”.
As an affiliate broker with John Green and Company Realtors, Collierville’s
only hometown real estate agency, my fellow agents and I welcome you to
Collierville and stand ready to find your
place to call home in our beautiful Town.
by Maureen Fraser, John Green & Company Realtors
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Visit TourCollierville.com for Events, Attractions, Dining, Shopping, & more!
R E A L T O R S R E Licensed A L inT O R S Tennessee and Mississippi
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY Licensed in Tennessee and Mississippi
Mary Jean Smith, Broker/Owner maryjeanhsmith@hotmail.com 901.853.8666 office 901.359.2520 cell 901.854.6378 fax 1.888.853.5519 toll free 118 N. Main Street Collierville, TN 38017 WWW.MARYJEANSMITH.COM WWW.BANYANTREEREALTORS.COM November 2014
TourCollierville.com
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TourCollierville.com T TourC Tour ourColl C llierv Colli ierv rvill ille ill e com o
November N No ovemb e ber 2 20 2014 014 014 4
JOHN D. DUNCAN | DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 9 0 1 . 4 5 7 . 2 2 1 3 • J D U N C A N @ C I . C O L L I E RV I L L E . T N . U S
• W W W . AC C E S S C O L L I E RV I L L E . C O M
ORGANIZED FOR SUCCESS
Community landmark since 1873 Come in and explore!
Free Admission Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm
ColliervilleMuseum.org 196 N Main Street