AMI AUSTIN - BABCOCK GIFTS - BLU D’OR INTERIORS
CHERYL PESCE - CHICO’S - COTTON TAILS - DINSTUHL’S
EAST MEMPHIS ATHLETIC CLUB - FLEET FEET SPORTS
FROST BAKE SHOP - HEATHER - HOT YOGA PLUS - IBERIA BANK
J MC LAUGHLIN - JAMES DAVIS - J JILL - JOSEPH - JOSEPH MEN
KING FURS AND FINE JEWELRY - KITTIE KYLE - LIBRO - LORI JAMES
NICOLE BARRÉ BRIDAL BOUTIQUE - NOVEL - ORVIS
PANERA BREAD - PAVO SALON - PIGTAILS AND CREWCUTS
RESTAURANT IRIS - SACHI - SISSY’S LOG CABIN
STOVALL COLLECTION - TALBOTS - VIGNETTES INTERIORS - ZÜPMED
For David and Mary Stooksbury and many others, The Village at Germantown is more than a new address: it’s a community of friends who believe that life is what you make it.
It’s designed to meet needs, exceed expectations and bring new meaning to retirement living… all while enjoying an upscale lifestyle and endless amenities.
Twenty of Memphis’ best restaurants and caterers served up delicious soup and local favorites bites for guests to enjoy, all while supporting Youth Villages. The 34th annual Soup Sunday was held February 19 at The Kent. In addition to the culinary delights, beer from Grind City Brewing, mimosas, and cocktails featuring Old Dominick Distillery’s Memphis Toddy were also enjoyed at this much anticipated annual event. youthvillages.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
1. Dr. Tullyne Frazier, Larry Kelly, Shondria Mosby & LaNofeia Parker 2. Josh & Alaina McGuire 3. Alexis Schwartz, Kristen Horton & Denise Shepler 4. Reginald Fondren & Vernita Mayfield 5. Haley Weeden, Aimee & Paul Gould, Stephen & Lilliana Vescovo 6. Kim Thomas & Caitlin McGill
MARCH/ APRIL 2023
March / April 2023
Volume IX • Number 2
PUBLISHER
Jim Walker jim@4memphis.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sandi Butler Hughes sandi@4memphis.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Lesley Harris Colvett lesley@4memphis.com
ART DIRECTOR
McKendree Walker mckendree@4memphis.com
ARTS CONTRIBUTOR
Ken Hall
ADVERTISING
Mark O. Ramirez mark@4memphis.com
Cathy Farrell cathy@4memphis.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Cyrena Wages
WEBMASTER
Eddie Bates webmaster@4memphis.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mark O. Ramirez McKendree Walker
CONTACT
6465 Quail Hollow Memphis, TN 38120 901.217.4000 www.4memphis.com
The “Works of Heart” 31st annual art auction celebrated the spirit of Valentine’s with an exciting, fun-filled party on February 11 at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Gallery-quality, heart-themed artwork by leading regional artists were up for bid along with complimentary wine, beer, appetizers. This year’s event raised $93,000 for the Child Advocacy Center’s healing and transformative work in the lives of Memphis children. memphiscac.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
1. Vera & Christian Stanfield 2. Claire Brulatour, Gabe McGaha & Genna Wigginson 3. Frances & A.C. Tortorich 4. Pam Hauber, David & Bonnie Thornton, Dr. Michael & Beni Dragutsky, Lydia & Dr. Roy Bors-Koefoed, Steve West 5. Sushma Konappa, Beryl Wight & Burton Bridges 6. Sean Philip & Marisa Soto Phipps 7. Tiffany Hoggan & Deirdre Oglesby 8. Hollie & Storm Owen 9. Laura Alexander & Gloria Dodds Harlan
Photography by Mark Ramirez
The Memphis Restaurant Association recently held their annual Awards Food Festival at The Kent. The foodie event was open to the public, and guests enjoyed the opportunity to sample wonderful eats from some of Memphis’ finest eateries. It was also a chance for those in the restaurant business to gather and honor their own. The 2023 award recipients were: Restaurateur of the Year, Ryan Trimm of Across the Board Restaurant Group; Associate Member of the Year, Rick Bowers of Patrick Accounting; and Ernie Mellor, chef and owner of Hog Wild - Real Memphis Barbecue and Moveable Feast Catering, was recognized with the MRA Meritorious Service Award. Congratulations and thank you for making Memphis a renowned food destination! memphisrestaurants.com
1. Lyric Crawford & Linda Burks 2. Suzanne & Greyson Tuck, Sarah & Ryan Trimm, Jeff & Tricia Harris 3. Maya Tucker & Jasmine Smith 4. Sandy Robertson, Cole Dickey & Jennifer Pappin 5. Carolyn Michael Banks & Jackie Murray 6. Yvette Burke, Landon Stone, Bryan Cook & Teresa Cheathem 7. Rachel Delcoco, John Seay & Zach Delcoco 8. Lauren Lewis, Ava Bomarito, Candice Carroll, Lloyd Thomas, Libbie Berryman & Olivia Miller
For three generations, the Rices have handled divorce and family law matters in Memphis and across Tennessee. Their co-authored book, “The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice,” published by the American Bar Association, is recognized across the country as the national standard. After rigorous examination, contested case reviews, and recommendations from judges and fellow attorneys, both of the Rices are Board Certified in Family Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. The Rices bring over 75 years of experience combined with up-to-date technology, including 128 bit encryption of client information and communication. Rice Law handles your family law matter with depth of experience including a team of nationally recognized attorneys and Advanced Certified Paralegals. Rice Law’s Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 listed mediators provide valuable insight into resolving your matter quickly.
Whether you find yourself dealing with divorce, mediation, custody, child support, domestic violence or any other matter involving family law,
By Daniel Grose Director of Horticulture, Memphis Botanic Garden
Iknow we live in a fast-paced world, a social media video has about seven seconds to grab me or I'm scrolling on, but bear with me if you will, close your eyes if possible, and take a minute to imagine yourself in a meadow. What can you hear? Birds singing, frogs croaking, crickets chirping, the rustling of leaves and grasses? What do you see? Purple coneflower patches with bees hopping from one plant to the next, a swallowtail butterfly hovering above finding the perfect plant on which to lay its eggs, grass swaying gently in the breeze? What else comes to mind? The feel of sunshine at your back, a gentle caress of wind easing that summer heat, or the unique scent of nature after a rain. In places like this, your senses are more alert, heightened, and yet, calmer all at the same time. It is a place full of life, color, imagination, and beauty.
Like many of you, these past few years since the pandemic, my wife and I have sought places where our boys could be outside in a safe space, experience nature, and feel free! We go blueberry picking in Nesbit, peach picking in Millington, hiking in Shelby Forest, and more. In early 2022 our team at the Memphis Botanic Garden started imagining how we could provide a space like this on our grounds, a space where guests and families could go in the middle of the city, on a busy day, and connect with nature. Many cities have spaces like these; places such as Lurie Garden in Chicago or The High Line in New York come to mind. We have high expectations of our new arboretum space! Not only do we want it to be absolutely beautiful, but we also want it to be a testament to ecologically minded and sustainable landscaping practices, and be a cornerstone for nature education for the
40,000 plus children who come on field trips to our grounds each year.
This new area is a revitalization of one of our oldest gardens, the Original Arboretum. It is located on the southwest corner of the property closest to Park and Cherry right next to our Urban Home Garden. We have recently doubled our vegetable growing space and added several dozen fruiting trees and shrubs - all to be organically grown and managed. Guests will actually be able to come in season and pick strawberries, blueberries, figs, apples, pears, blackberries, etc. from our Orchard space.
In an effort to paint the broader picture of what we imagine this space will be, let's take a walk through the garden as it will be! First, you’ll enter our new outdoor kitchen space into the Urban Home Garden. We recently doubled our vegetable growing space, and you'll be able to see, touch, and taste what is in season. There will be a variety of organic growing methods for you to check out from patio planters, raised beds, row cropping, intercropping, and more. All the food is organically grown, suited to the Mid-South; things that you could grow in your own backyard. I recommend taking a cherry tomato off a vine and tasting it. If you have not had a fresh cherry tomato from the vine, let me tell you, it is an explosion of flavor that store-bought tomatoes can not touch! Be careful or you'll get hooked!
As you walk on through into the Orchard area, you may notice that blueberries are now in season - if you liked the cherry tomato, then you will love the blueberries, so pick a couple of handfuls for later! Then saunter along through the mown orchard paths towards the arboretum area; as you do the ambiance of nature
will grow and settle in. A part of this undoubtedly comes from the sounds of bees busy in their hives down near the fenceline and the chickens squawking about in the coop just yards away. You may also catch the sweet scent of our Urban Home Garden Curator Owen Smith’s nearly finished compost, and it no longer feels like you're only half a mile from Southern Ave.
Continuing down the path east, the first meadow you walk upon is our Monarch Meadow. Monarchs are an endangered species now, and this meadow has several hundred milkweed species (the host plant of the monarch caterpillar) and hundreds of lateseason nectar plants to fuel their migration south. During the summer, the meadow will be exploding with purples, yellows, pinks, and oranges. Pause here for a minute and look. How many caterpillars can you find? Do you see the holes in all those milkweed plants, evidence that monarch babies are eating, living, and thriving in this meadow? Hopefully, you'll see a monarch, or several monarchs fluttering about.
When you continue along the loop you'll pass our nature play area and outdoor classrooms, and as you round the curve you’ll see a bench in front of a beautiful southern magnolia. Have a seat in the shade of the tree, and you’ll have an open view of the Pecan Grove Meadow to the north, and our Goldfinch Meadow to the east. Now is the moment to take out those blueberries, and just watch to see what comes to life around you. The chickens from the Urban Home Garden, children playing in the nature play space on the other side of the arboretum, a view of four different meadow areas, the birds, butterflies, bees, squirrels, and
other life that will reveal itself to you as you have a moment to rest and take it all in.
In my life, these moments in nature have been indescribably meaningful for me and my family. We believe this space will be a very special spot in the heart of the city for Memphians to enjoy! Over the spring and summer of 2023, we will be adding nearly 10,000 grasses, thousands of wildflowers, and over 60 native trees to this space. It will be one of the most uniquely rich and diverse landscapes in the city, and we can't wait to see you there!
You can support this effort by helping us plant 50+ new trees and place eight benches in this wonderful greenspace through a donation. Your name will appear on an engraved plaque as the donor in this oasis in the heart of the city. Learn more about establishing your roots at the Garden at membg.org/rooted-pledge-form.
Thanks to some fun-loving, adventurous donors, Church Health held an exciting wine experience auction at Crosstown Concourse on February 11. About 85 people bid on fantastic wine and dinner events, trips, art, and bottles of rare wines and bourbons. Hosted by auctioneer and all-around weather guy Ron Childers, the auction raised much-needed funds for essential health services and programs for Church Health's hard-working patients. churchhealth.org
Photography by Jacob Juliot and Ken Hall
The first HeartSoul Memphis event to celebrate the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” movement was held February 3 at The Halloran Center. Hosted by Dean & Associates and Amazon, the festive, inaugural evening was dedicated to celebrating women’s vitality and shining a light on their health journey. heartsoulmemphis.com
Photography by Mark Ramirez
1. Cassandra Howard, Elatris Estell, Joan Carr, Shirley Terry-Lewis & Dr. Michelle Taylor 2. Coach Shaquan A. Grove & Rosalyn Wheless
3. Andrea Curry & Yoriann Hull 4. Sheena Freeman, Andre Dean & Lori Evans 5. Dr. Eric & Tenela Blakney, Aaron & Mary Kanowitz
6. Katrina King & Dr. Shokea Miller 7. DeAndre Jones, Eryn Rogers, Bridgett & Jason Turner 8. Q. & Tracy Cooper
BY OLINE EATON
A brilliant biography of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, casting an era's biggest "star of life" in a new light for a new generation. In Finding Jackie, Oline Eaton resurrects the Jackie Kennedy Onassis who has been culturally erased, who we need now more than ever--not the First Lady who was a paragon of femininity, fashion, American wifeliness and motherhood, but rather the kaleidoscopic Jackie who emerged after the murder of her husband changed her world and ours. Here is the story of Jackie's reinvention into an adventurer, a wanderer, a woman, and an idea in whom many Americans and people around the globe have deeply, fiercely wanted to believe.
Novel will host an event for Memphis native Oline Eaton on Friday, March 3 at 6PM.
BY JOY BATEMAN
The author and illustrator of the Art of Dining series has published a beautifully giftable book of inspirational quotes paired with uplifting original artwork. Signed copies are available at Novel.
BY JOSHUA HOOD
In this Southern thriller, two families grapple with the aftermath of a murder in their small Arkansas town.
After his son is convicted of capital murder, Vietnam War veteran Jeremiah Fitzjurls takes over the care of his granddaughter, Joanna, raising her with as much warmth as can be found in an Ozark junkyard outfitted to be an armory. He teaches her how to shoot and fight, but there is not enough training in the world to protect her when the dreaded Ledfords, notorious meth dealers and fanatical white supremacists, come to collect on Joanna as payment for a long-overdue blood debt.
Novel will host an event for Arkansas writer Eli Cranor on Monday, April 3 at 6PM.
When rent increases put a teen mom at risk of losing her home, she resorts to a dangerous game to keep her family afloat. But all games have consequences, and this isn't one she can afford to lose. A gripping story about race, income instability, and the strength it takes to survive from Kristen R. Lee, the celebrated author of Required Reading for the Disenfranchised Freshman and a native Memphian. Signed copies are available at Novel.
The final days of the American presence in Afghanistan bring Adam Hayes a summons he can't ignore in the latest electrifying thriller from the world of Robert Ludlum.
Adam Hayes has stepped away from the field for the last time. He's promised his wife that he won't put his life on the line any more, and there's nothing that will make him break a promise to his wife.
Well...almost nothing. With America withdrawing from Afghanistan and the Taliban closing in, Abdul Nassir reached out to his old friend. Ten years ago, he saved the American's life, and the time has come for repayment. The Afghan is desperate to flee his homeland. Like most of his countrymen, he is petrified by the Taliban takeover, but he also can't trust the Americans. He’s the only eyewitness to a massacre committed by a rogue team of CIA contractors. Not only can he identify the butcher who directed the bloodbath, he also has photographic proof. He’ll only be safe when those pictures are made public
Now, there’s just one man he can trust to get him to safety-Adam Hayes.
Novel will host an event for Memphis writer Joshua Hood on Tuesday, April 4 at 6PM.
The women of Le Bonheur Club, Inc. have something BIG to celebrate – they have been “helping kids for 100 years!” A centennial is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and to festively mark the occasion, the Gold Centennial Ball will be held April 29 at the Peabody Hotel.
One hundred years ago, Le Bonheur Club was started as a sewing circle to provide clothing to children in need in the Midsouth. The group’s first project was sewing for an orphanage, hence the stitches around the large red heart emblem that sits atop Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Officers were elected in this sewing circle, and the name Le Bonheur was chosen. “Le Bonheur” is French for “happiness.” After raising today’s equivalent of $22 million dollars, the women of Le Bonheur Club opened the doors to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
US News & World Report has deemed Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital as one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation and ranked it number two in the state of Tennessee.
Le Bonheur Club members have been instrumental and hands-on throughout the century, raising money and giving of their time and talents to support this wonderful, growing hospital. Volunteers get to be an integral part of spreading joy and happiness to the children being treated at Le Bonheur. Such examples are hosting holiday
and craft-making parties with the patients, cheerfully walking the hallways handing out snacks and books from the hospitality cart, and providing Bunny Lane toys for children who are going into surgery. Bunny Lane is 100 % funded and stocked by the members of Le Bonheur Club. Trust me, those Bunny Lane toys are special and necessary to little ones before surgery. My 20-year-old son still has his little stuffed animal horse he got to pick out before his tonsillectomy when he was seven years old.
Over the century, the club has raised money for various projects including the Family Resource Center, a pediatric ambulance, Art Therapy Room, and the Rehabilitation Center. The Centennial Ball will continue to provide funding for future projects of the Le Bonheur Club!
The Ball will be a spectacular night of dining at the beautiful Peabody Hotel, bidding on fabulous auction items, and dancing to the SoulSations. It will be a memorable night to celebrate the legacy of Le Bonheur Club and continue raising funds for the kids. Le Bonheur Club hopes you will join them at the Ball on April 29.
Scan the QR code below or visit one.bidpal.net/100year goldcentennialball/ to purchase tickets.
Gold Centennial Ball
oin us at The Peabody Hotel
On April 29, 2023
T o celebrate
100 years of Le Bonheur Club
To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, donate to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, to learn more about this event Scan the QR code below or visit one.bidpal.net/100yeargoldcentennialball/welcome
The Salvation Army honored long-time employee Sharon Cash with a lovely luncheon in honor of her retirement. The retirement luncheon celebration was held at the Memphis Country Club January 19. Sharon has served as the Executive Social Services Director at Purdue Center of Hope for over 22 years. To mark the momentous occasion, WREG’s Tim Simpson served as emcee of the event and Mayor Jim Strickland issued a proclamation in honor of Sharon’s retirement. salvationarmymemphis.org
Dates: March 8th | April 19th | May 19th
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
AvenidaGermantown.com C O N S T R U C T I O N U N D E R W A Y R E A D Y S U M M E R 2 0 2 3 1 2 6 7 1 M I S S C L O U D R D . - L O T 3 0 5 1 2 6 3 0 R I V E R B Y L N . - L O T 3 0 0
— Join us for live jazz & blues from Stax Music Academy! Enjoy an evening of complimentary music, lite bites, drinks, and fun. Take a tour of our beautiful 55+ Active Adult Community while you're here. Bring a friend, and enter to win raffle prizes! M A R T Y S M I T H B U I L D E R , A R T I S A N C U S T O M H O M E S M A R T Y S M I T H 9 0 1 . C O M 968 CIVIC CENTER DR #103 COLLIERVILLE, TN 38017 901 259 8500 MSMITH@COLLINS-MAURY COM
Concert Series M Y B E S T F O R Y O U ! 901.674.1031
March picks up where December left off – we all needed a little break in January and February, didn’t we? We ease in Spring with a flurry of events of all kinds – play, films, orchestras, and more. Like daffodils and tulips rising to bring color to us after a bleak winter, all of our arts groups are getting back in the swing. And we have new things this year. Chances are La Boheme is one of your favorite operas if not the favorite, but wait until you see Puccini’s great musical romance in the fabulous new Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center at the University of Memphis. Another impressive new musical addition is Crosstown Arts Jazz Month in March. I think they have something like 20 performances in 30 days with quite a variety, some charge a fee in the theater and Green Room, some free in the Crosstown Concourse atriums. I can’t list it all so look at the website. At this point, Crosstown is offering more live music on a regular basis than any venue in Memphis, except perhaps Beale Street. -Ken Hall
All That Breathes film screening
Indie Memphis, Malco Studio on the Square, 7pm
Between Two Worlds art by John Torina Gallery Ten Ninety-One, WKNO Opening reception March 5, 4-6pm. On display until 3/30
Farewell, Mr. Haffman film screening
International Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Community Center, 7pm
New works by Brin & Dale Baucum
Lois Estes Ruleman Gallery at Church Health Opening reception March 3, 5:30-7pm. Longtime potters Brin and Dale are now working in photography and watercolor respectively. Same great talent, new mediums. On display until 4/28
Marie-Stéphane Bernard’s Sounds of My Life GPAC, 8pm Our favorite French soprano offers a new musical production.
Perry Mears
Avanti Concert Series, Beethoven Club, 263 S. McLean, 7pm
Dali Quartet Iris Collection, Scheidt Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm
From the Studio art by Carl Moore
Jay Etkin Gallery
Opening March 17, 5-8pm, this exhibit is part of the state-wide Tennessee Triennial Exhibitions. On display until 4/29
3/1 3/2 3/7
Orchestra Unplugged: Copland Appalachian Spring Halloran Centre, 7:30pm
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Orpheum Theatre, 7:30/2pm, through 3/5
3/20 3/4
Women in the Arts, Dixon Gallery 10am-2pm
Organized by the Dixon Gallery and Gardens and Theatre Memphis, this annual event brings together a host of women of all ages for a day of performances, demonstrations, classes, and will also include an artist market, make spaces, and food trucks. The event takes place both at the Dixon and Theatre Memphis.
Spamalot Germantown Community Theatre, 6pm A musical adaptation of Monty Python & the Holy Grail. through 3/19
Ain’t Too Proud - The Life and Times of the Temptations
Orpheum Theatre, through 3/12
The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie Crosstown Arts Film Series, Crosstown Theater, 7pm, Luis Buñuel 1972 surrealist classic film.
Freckleface Strawberry The Musical Circuit Playhouse, through 2/19
Harmonia Rosales: Master Narrative Brooks Museum, through 6/25
University of Memphis Symphony with University Singers
Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm
The Play That Goes Wrong Theatre Memphis, through 3/26
Prof. Andy Horowitz, University of Connecticut, on New Orleans’ History, America’s Future University Center Bluff Room, 6pm
Once Upon A Mattress
Rhodes Theatre Guild, McCoy Theatre, through 3/31
Anthony Wilson
Jazz in the Box, GPAC, 7pm
Ink Circuit Playhouse, through 4/16
Chalkfest 2023 Brooks Museum, 10am
Southern Literary Salon Series: Truth & Beauty of Ann Patchett
Tennessee Shakespeare Company, 7950 Trinity Rd., 3pm
Mid-South Sober Living Art Auction
Memphis Botanic Garden, 6:30pm
Concerto Competition
Germantown Symphony Orchestra, 5124 Poplar, 9am-5pm
16th Annual Interfaith Dinner Memphis Islamic Center, 5pm
FourSights group art show
Gallery Ten Ninety-One, WKNO
Opening reception April 2, 2-4pm, through 4/28
Dan Torop art
TOPS Gallery, 400 S. Front, on display until 5/30
Chicago Orpheum Theatre, through 4/9
Jazz Week
University of Memphis
Several performances by various student and faculty groups. through 4/8
Arrow Creative Marketplace in Motion Loflin Yard, 11am-5pm
Cinderella Ballet Memphis, Orpheum Theatre, 7:30/2:30pm, through 4/16
Volunteer Odyssey 10th Anniversary Celebration Service projects in the morning across the city and an afternoon celebration at Crosstown.
Jose Limón Dance Company Buckman Performing Arts Center, 7pm
Susan Maakestad: The Expansive Moment Dixon Gallery & Gardens, on display until 7/9
La Boheme
University of Memphis Opera, Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center, 7pm
Sherlock’s Last Case Theatre Memphis, through 5/7
Orchestra Unplugged: Dvorak New World Symphony Halloran Centre, 8:30pm
Natasha, Pierre, & The Great Comet of 1812 Playhouse on the Square, through 5/28
Bookstock Author’s Festival Benjamin Hooks Main Library, 3030 Poplar, 10am Local authors read, speak, display, and meet you!
Their Eyes Were Watching God Collage Dance Collective, Cannon Center, 2:30pm, through 4/30
American Experience Iris Collective, GPAC, 7pm
Zao Wou-Ki: Watercolor and Ceramics Dixon Gallery & Gardens
This year’s 12th Annual Wine for Wishes held at the beautiful Cadre Building February 3 was a fun evening of mingling while enjoying great wine, delicious bites, live entertainment and a terrific silent auction. Wine for Wishes is a signature Make-A-Wish event, hosted by the Associate Board, that raises money to help create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. wish.org/midsouth
Photography by Mark Ramirez
1. Nick & Minna Watkins 2. Courtney Cox, Kathleen Muck, Ashli Bixler & Allie Marcom 3. Keith & Amanda Montgomery 4. Olivia Huling, Christi Hanna & Carissa Bacon 5. Ashley & Alex Wainscott 6. Mila Montecilio, Logan Williams & Courtney Neal 7. Zack & Amanda Behnke, Ann & Hunter Cooper 8. Betsy McKay & Brent Gaia 9. Debbie Allen, Allie Fleming & Scott Elliot
Did you know that Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban greenspaces in the United States? The Park is five times larger than New York’s Central Park and more than three times the size of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park – offering unparalleled size, scope and diversity of trails, fields, landscapes and amenities. If you think that this massive park is managed by the government, guess again! Shelby Farms Park Conservancy (SFPC) is the 501(c)3 nonprofit that manages and operates Shelby Farms Park and Shelby Farms Greenline through a private-public partnership with Shelby County Government.
The 4,500-acre park has hundreds of acres of woodlands, grasslands and wetlands; 20+ lakes and ponds; and 40+ miles of paved and unpaved trails. Popular features include the iconic Greenline, a 10.65-mile paved pedestrian and bicycle trail that runs through Shelby County, and amenities like the Woodland Discovery Playground, Wolf River Pedestrian Bridge and Hyde Lake. We operate a Visitor Center and Event Center, and are landlords for a restaurant - Coastal Fish Company. The park offers a wide variety of free and low-cost programs that serve adults, children, teenagers, seniors, community groups and schools such as fitness classes, camps, field trips, mobile classrooms and community events.
Shelby County Government provides 25% of Shelby Farms Park’s annual operating budget. SFPC raises the remaining 75% from
private sources, more than $4 million dollars a year – and nearly $11,000 a day! They’re able to fundraise through a combination of charitable contributions from individuals, companies and other organizations and earned revenue through facility rentals, retail and events like Starry Nights. This is a win-win for Shelby County residents, maximizing taxpayer dollars to amplify public benefit and create a world-class public park. Because a majority of funds are raised through the nonprofit, Shelby Farms’ success is contingent upon private and corporate donors continuing to support the park.
Before the creation of the SFPC, you may remember Shelby farms as a working penal farm. Over the decades since, the Park’s future was stewarded by groups of engaged citizens determined to protect and preserve the land for public benefit. Thanks to them, as the Memphis metro expanded eastward, much of the land that would become Shelby Farms Park remained as green space. The Conservancy has raised and invested more than $70 million in park improvements to help bring Shelby Farms Park and Greenline to their fullest potential as the treasured community and public health assets they are today.
Funds raised during SFPC-produced events directly support the operations of Shelby Farms Park and Greenline year-round, making these special spaces possible and providing vital outdoor amenities for recreation, fitness, leisure, and community.
Here are a few great upcoming events to enjoy this Spring:
• Earth Day: In April, the park will once again offer Earth Day programming – a combination of volunteer opportunities and public programming focused on sustainability, how our community is going green, and what families can do at home to help create a cleaner, greener future for the Mid-South.
• Park After Dark: Also later this spring, the park will host the second annual “Park After Dark” gala event. Like last year, this will be a dressy-casual, outdoor event with cocktails, dinner, a silent auction and more. This is a rare opportunity to experience all the Park has to offer once the sun sets and the Park closes.
• Canoes + Cocktails: Canoes + Cocktails, one of Shelby Farms Park’s most popular and well-attended outdoor events, returns! Participants enjoy a guided evening paddle among one of Memphis’ best views followed by shoreside cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, yard games, and music overlooking beautiful Hyde Lake on Friday nights from May through September.
For more information on upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to give, visit shelbyfarmspark.org.
New and like-new Steinway, Boston, and Essex pianos offered at significantly reduced prices—only at Amro Music.
It’s finally Spring, and our 4Memphis early season fashion shoot celebrates all of the beauty of this glorious season. Our location is South Hampton, a magnificent estate home in Eads. The Georgian home was built as a replica of the original home Hampton Mansion, a National Historic Site in Baltimore County, Maryland. Surrounded by 100 acres, the home and gardens reflect the style of an 18th century estate. Embrace Spring to the maximum - it is the look of the season!
South Hampton is offered for sale by Judy McLellan. For more information, visit judymclellan.crye-leike.com
Dress and earrings from Kittie Kyle Shoes Model's Own
Top and skirt, purse, earrings and bracelet from The Pink Door Shoes Model's Own
Photography: McKendree Walker | Model: Kristen Bear/Colors Agency
To the max seems to be the message sent by the fashion fabs this season. As Spring springs forth it seems the styles are moody just like me. Some designers are excited about romantic crochet looks that feel nonchalant. Others are leaning towards a sophisticated minimalism. Thanks to Netflix shows like “Wednesday,” weird girl dressing has also made a design statement.
So what does all this mean? After reading countless fashion articles, looking at the Holy Grail of “online” store collections and the world’s best fashion edits…I have arrived at a clothing crossroads: What do I wear?
Shakespeare once said, “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players.” With this season of style approaching, who am I? What character will I be as I come out of winter hibernation to the Spring stage? Last year I was ruffled and colorful and many of my clothes were wildly printed. For two years I had been a masked prisoner of leggings and sweatshirts, but last year I was finally free to wear something fun to somewhere. Spring 2023 seems even more exciting because there are so many options, and everyone can pick something that fits their personality. We can now go somewhere, anywhere and get dressed to the max!
Here are some noted trends and must haves to consider for your Spring ensemble:
• Super oversized jackets
• Maxi skirts
• Optical illusion prints
• Denim looks with an edge
• Crisp white shirts
• Modern tailoring with chic minimalism
• Romantic crochet, frayed edging with unfinished looks
• Sheer layering
• Kitten heels and ballet flats
• Large handbags
As the season changes so do the fashions. I’m really excited about Spring 2023. My takeaway is to just be YOU! Take the fun new shapes and materials, make them your own and go somewhere fun!
Yours,
T. Rendy
Tony Barrasso’s 11th Annual Italian Winterfest was held January 15 at St. Benedict at Auburndale, and guests enjoyed the festive evening that featured good food, wine, music and fun! The fundraiser honored Archbishop Peter Sartain & benefitted Ave Maria, St. Ann & St. Paul Schools, UNICO & Wings of Ave Maria.
Photography by Mark Ramirez
1. Nanetta Walls, Donna Nelson & Re Schuler 2. Sharon & Joe Cappadona, Mary Martin, Sam Liberto, Tony & Bonnie Barrasso
3. Jaime & Kevin Wilson 4. Tommy Gattas, Phil & Terry Woodard, James Gattas, Kay & Tom Whitman 5. Janet & Bill Ticer
The annual Cirque du CMOM fundraiser transported guests to the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland this year. Held on February 4, it was a wonder-ful party with dining, dancing, and fanciful delights. All proceeds from the evening benefit the Children’s Museum of Memphis, its exhibits, and educational programming. cmom.com
Photography by Mark Ramirez
Sponsored by
For more information: FarrellProductionsMemphis@gmail.com
Photo courtesy of Ken Hall
Willy Bearden recently held an opening reception for his photography exhibit at Baptist Cancer Center-DeSoto. A large crowd of friends, family, nurses, and Baptist staff attended the opening. “We sometimes hear the term bandied about that everything is ‘just business.’ Well, I can tell you from personal experience that at the Baptist Cancer Center, ‘it’s all personal,’” Willy shared. “Genuine care and attention are things that can't be measured when you're going through the uncertain times that a cancer diagnosis brings about. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share my art with my friends, family, staff, and fellow patients.”
Earle with Jerry “The King” Lawler, American Color Commentator and Professional Wrestler
By Sandi Butler Hughes
With warmer weather, spring breaks and long weekends, there is no better time to explore what is new at our beautiful Tennessee State Parks. Tennessee has 57 parks across the state, and each one is unique. Four of the parks have new or newly-renovated lodges that feature resort-style hotels. This is not roughing it; this is updated and upscale lodging at Pickwick Landing, Paris Landing, Montgomery Bell, and Fall Creek Falls State Parks.
The lodges at each of these parks offer wonderful amenities in gorgeous settings. Pickwick Landing and Montgomery Bell lodges have undergone extensive renovation and total overhaul of the entire facility. Fall Creek Falls and Paris Landing lodges are both completely new, and beautifully designed to complement the park settings. The construction and renovations to these properties are all part of the state legislature’s $184 million investment in capital projects for Tennessee State Parks.
From outdoor activities to relaxing on your private balcony, these destinations are a welcomed retreat to enjoy these warmer days, cool nights and the natural beauty in Tennessee, all within an easy drive of Memphis. Start planning now at tnstateparks.com.
Lodge at Fall Creek FallsLocated in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, the Lodge at Montgomery Bell was fully renovated in 2021 and is a natural retreat for a relaxing stay. The lodge is on the banks of Lake Acorn, and every room offers stunning balcony views of the lake. There are 3,800 acres of preserved park land with lots of outdoor activities such as kayak rentals, dedicated mountain bike trails, a golf course, and outdoor pool. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the restaurant, or sip one of the craft beers offered in the lounge. If you want to take in the bright lights of downtown Nashville, you are just minutes from the interstate for the short 40 minute drive. This is a great option to experience the best of the great outdoors and big city life, all in one convenient place.
Fall Creek Falls is one of the premiere state parks in Tennessee, and the new Lodge at Fall Creek Falls beautifully showcases the outdoor scenery. This park is one of the largest in the state at 29,800 acres on the Cumberland Plateau. While it is about five hours from Memphis, it is worth the drive, and the addition of this $40.4 million lodge makes it even more so. All of the rooms feature balconies with lake views, and the full-service restaurant offers indoor and outdoor lakeside dining. In the park, you’ll find a Canopy Challenge Course with wobbly bridges, rope swings and zip lines, a Nature Center with naturalistled programs, four playgrounds, and 56 miles of hiking trails. This is a fabulous year-round destination, from the natural beauty of waterfalls and overlooks to the new state-of-the-art Lodge at Fall Creek Falls.
The newly constructed Lodge at Paris Landing just opened in 2022, and it is a beautiful gem on Kentucky Lake. Paris Landing State Park was founded in 1945 and is positioned at the widest part of the lake, making it ideal for water sports. The lake was the inspiration for architects when designing the new property, and commanding lake views are the focal point. There is a full-service restaurant and lounge with indoor and outdoor dining options. Firepits, reading nooks, and gathering spots are also part of the lodge experience. The park also offers a golf course, cabins, and camping. Less than three hours from Memphis, this is a lovely spot for a quiet weekend or an adventure on the lake.
For many Memphians, Pickwick is home-away-from-home, and the State Park is a hub for boating, golf, dining, meetings, and more. The park has over 1,400 acres to explore on the shores of the Tennessee River, perfect for hiking, paddling, and fishing. The newly renovated Lodge at Pickwick Landing offers modern rooms, each with a private balcony and incredible views of Pickwick Lake. There is an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center and boat ramps for lake access. The full-service restaurant and lounge boasts stunning views of the water. It is an ideal getaway, offering something for everyone just a couple of hours from Memphis.
Photo by Aerial Innovations of TN & KY
Photo by Attic Fire Photography
Photo by Chad Baumer
Photography by Wendy Adams and Kristen Williams
A weekend of celebrations for the Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center at the University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music started Saturday, February 4 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening gala. The six-hour party raised $725,000 for musical instruments, recording and audio technology and an instrument lending program. Guests were welcomed to the $40 million Scheidt Center with a blue carpet entrance, champagne, and tours. Six-time Grammy artist Dionne Warwick performed and was a highlight of the gala event. The celebratory weekend continued on Sunday with the inaugural Honey Music Festival. This free community celebration showcased 17 different ensembles, chambers, choirs and studios throughout the Scheidt Center on five different stages. Fundraising efforts continue to fully equip the state-of-the-art facility with needed equipment and support for an instrument-lending program for students. If you are interested in supporting the future of music in Memphis, please visit memphis.edu/scheidtcenter.
Memphis Camerata
April 19 7:00PM
Free Admission
St. Patrick Catholic Church
277 S. 4th St, Memphis, TN 38126
The mission of the Memphis Camerata is to maintain a tradition of excellence in choral singing, be a vital part of the arts in Memphis and enrich our community through singing, volunteerism and choral music education. We would love to share this evening with you.
4Memphis sends a huge thank you to Memphis Camerata for donating their services to 4Memphis Music's “Blue Christmas” event benefitting For the Kingdom.
MoSH hosted their annual Science of Beer event on January 13, and Mid-South beer lovers converged at the Pink Palace to sample excellent beer samples and restaurant nibbles. Part education and part party, the evening included exhibits, games, mini-lectures, music, and lots of beer-themed fun. The proceeds fund MoSH's education and outreach programs. There is nothing better than a night of tasting the region's best brews for a great cause! moshmemphis.com
Filling Station (MFS) Brewing was on hand again for this year’s Science of Beer. The future start-up brewery plans to offer high-quality craft beer options and was once again an award winner at the event, taking second place. MFS was started by long-time friends Heather Reed and Bryan Berretta, and they've added to their team with Scott Kley Contini, Blake Marcum, and Jesse Lara in key roles. They brewed unique and flavorful beers this year much to the crowd's delight, including their Salted Caramel Toasted Coconut Imperial Porter and Coriander & Orange Citrus Wheat. Even though they were competing against professional breweries, MFS has come in first or second place for the People’s Choice Award for Best Brewery six out of the past seven years of the event. They are currently looking for investors and have launched a Kickstarter campaign, working toward the goal of opening a taproom for beer lovers to enjoy their delicious sips. MFS Brewing is planning a launch in late 2023, and we are excited to raise a toast to more great beer in the Bluff City! mfsbrewing.com
Photos submitted by Le Bonheur Children's Hospital
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital celebrated 100 years of Le Bonheur Club, Inc., and to mark the special occasion a festive reception honoring the women of Le Bonheur Club was held January 10 at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. In 1952, Le Bonheur Club founded Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, and the members continue to play an integral role in both the fundraising and volunteer arms of the hospital today. Le Bonheur Club’s mission, to help Le Bonheur help kids, is woven throughout all aspects of the club while their main goal is to improve the lives of all children in our community. April 29, Le Bonheur Club will present “Gold Centiennial Ball,” a centennial celebration that will be held at the Peabody Hotel, and Memphians are invited to celebrate this special evening! lebonheurclub.org
1. Debbie Compton, Michael Wiggins & September Eason 2. Le Bonheur Club members enjoying the reception 3. Kim Pitts, Kathy Mooney & Denise McMahon 4. Le Bonheur Club members 5. Sandy Sherman, Debbie Edmundson & Libby Aaron 6. Le Bonheur Club teens 7. Le Bonheur Club past presidents 8. Debbie Compton & September Eason
On February 13, “Simple Song of Freedom Memphis” debuted at Theatre Memphis. The song and video are the creation of Mario Monterosso, a Sicily-born singer, songwriter, guitarist, and now-Memphis musician. The project features iconic voices including Kallen Esperian, Rev. Charles Hodges, Carla Thomas, Larry Dotson, Priscilla Presley, plus the choirs of Stax Music Academy and First Baptist Church Broad. So many more collaborated and contributed to bring this project to life. It is Mario’s vision and hope for the song and video to become a global anthem for peace in Ukraine. To learn more, visit ssofmemphis.com.
Photography by Mark Ramirez
Biggby Coffee in Cordova is now open! Owned and operated by a local Memphis family, the coffee purveyor began in 1995 and is based in East Lansing, Michigan. The brand’s cultural values of Make Friends, Have Fun, B Yourself and Share Great Coffee help coffee-lovers and the coffee-curious alike benefit from a less pretentious and fun approach to the standard gourmet cafe paradigm. Biggby Coffee baristas provide a unique experience focused on brightening their customers’ days. Located at 200 South Germantown Parkway, “Big B” promises to be the friendly coffee community while serving the perfect cup of coffee!
The Music of Romance Luncheon was held February 7 at Chickasaw Country Club to honor Hebe Award winners Amy and Dan Meadows and John Chiego for outstanding and significant contributions, performance, and service to the arts. The lovely and festive luncheon was hosted by the Memphis Symphony League, which enriches the lives of our diverse community through exceptional music and dynamic programs. memphissymphony.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
Carnival Memphis season has begun! Many Grand Krewes have announced their royalty at recent coronation balls. Hip Hip Hooraycheers to Carnival Memphis 2023! carnivalmemphis.org
The Mid-South Heart Ball was an elegant evening at the Peabody Hotel on February 18 to benefit the American Heart Association. The evening included a social reception, dinner and an exciting live auction. The Annual Heart Ball celebrates the collective success in driving change, funding science and improving behaviors to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. heart.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
River Tower, 655 S. Riverside Drive, 404B Steps from Martyrs Park, Tom Lee Park and Big River Crossing
1 bedroom / 1 bathroom
Updated kitchen with new appliances
Updated bathroom
Custom walk-in closet
HOA includes all utilities, 24-hour onsite security, gated parking, swimming pool and fitness center
$205,000
For more information or to schedule a visit, email wsi.memphis@gmail.com, or call (901)-290-4589.
By Sandi Butler Hughes
As this issue of 4Memphis goes to press, a locally-owned retailer is in its final days of operation. On February 28, Hollywood Furniture & Hardware closed the chapter on 99 years in business at the corner of Chelsea and Hollywood in North Memphis. They built their business on treating customers with respect and courtesy and providing good value at fair prices. When cleaning out a warehouse as they prepared to close, a vintage sign was found with the slogan “House of Fair Dealings.” Perhaps that was the secret for their longevity. In 1924, Irene and Roy Sanford founded the small hardware store on the outskirts of Memphis. Over time the neighborhood grew, and so did their business. The Sanford’s daughter Marilyn and her husband Berl Garey joined the business, and together the family ran the store. The Garey’s four children grew up there, helping customers, making deliveries, sweeping floors, anything that needed to be done. Bart and Leslie, two of the Garey children, were the third generation to continue the Hollywood Furniture & Hardware legacy, and they are also the ones who made the difficult decision to close. While difficult, the time is right for them to take some well-earned time off. Hollywood Furniture & Hardware is a perfect example of what it is that makes small businesses remarkable: the people. The entrepreneurs with the drive and spirit to create a business, and the patrons who support them and make it last. Local businesses create the unique fabric of our neighborhoods and communities, so shop local - it matters for Memphis.
Guests enjoyed a night of "Winter Wonders" at the Madonna Learning Center Winter Wonders Gala held February 25 at the Memphis Hilton. It was a wondrous, festive night of bidding on fabulous items in the silent and live auctions, dinner, and dancing to live music from the Soul Shockers - all to raise money for this gem of a school that serves children and young adults with disabilities. madonna-learning.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
10. Clay & Savannah Caskey 11. Kim & George Bennett 12. Brooks Ward & Wayne Dowdle 13. Lindley Buchas, Micky Clippard & Carol Cahill
