Zach SFenter ara Al Dweik
Jody Davis
Sarah LaPeer
Chandler May
Keith Warner
Jamie Jordan Dominey Shaw
Carlos Hurtado
Emily Carter
William Carter
Bradyn Claunch Miles Phillips
Brittany Myers Cobb
Marq Cobb Chuck Myers
Rachel Martin Brian Green
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands.
Psalm 90:17
Several months ago, as I thought about what I wanted to share with the readers of 4Memphis in my Publisher’s letter I had a working thought about writing about two people who inspired me - by simply going to work every day. In the 12 years of publishing 4Memphis I have written a letter in all but eight issues. I have told our readers before that when I bought VIP Magazine, which just two issues before had converted the name of the magazine to 4Memphis, I had not intended to write a letter for each issue. I simply wrote what was on my heart in that first issue as to the reason I had purchased the magazine and what we hoped the pages of 4Memphis would become for our city.
As each of the following issues was being worked on by the numerous people that make 4Memphis come to life each issue, there were people in my life and situations/struggles in our city that led me to share my thoughts on paper. In the issues that I have written a letter, I have tried to use my own personal journey through life to help myself and our readers handle or consider how we should view or celebrate issues that we are all facing in the Mid-South. I am as flawed an individual that has ever written, but through all my success, struggles and failures, I know there is a God who loves me and has answers in His word on how I should try to live my life to deal with all the difficult situations that life puts in my path.
4Memphis has had the privilege of writing about the numerous people that fight daily to help their fellow Memphians overcome the struggles that our city is facing. We also celebrate the numerous victories our city has been given through their work. My letters are an attempt to relate to what I believe to be true in my personal life about God’s love and provisions to the situation the people of Memphis face daily.
Which brings me back to an internal conversation that I have had for several months about writing about two people that have inspired me for years. They are both over 90 and going to work every day serving the people of Memphis. Their work is
not in the not-for-profit sector that fill the pages of 4Memphis, but each of these individuals has worked to provide services that modern day living requires or that makes modern day living more enjoyable.
In this issue, Lesley Harris Colvett writes about Peggy Heard who at the age of 91 works in customer service at Oak Hall. Oak Hall gave me my first job in 1976, and 12 years ago they were the first advertiser to make a long-term commitment to 4Memphis. This commitment has given me the privilege of interacting regularly with Peggy. If I had been asked, I would have thought Peggy to be in her early 70s. To say the least, I was shocked to discover that she is 91, which is what put it on my heart to write about her and Ted Winestone, another great Memphian that I have come to know and love these past 12 years.
It is with a very heavy heart that the idea of the story didn’t come to me sooner. Mr. Winestone passed away, September 17, 2022, one week before his 93rd birthday. Ted was born in Baranowicx, Poland, and his entire family was killed by the Nazis in 1941. He escaped his town’s slaughter and spent the balance of the war fighting the Nazis with the Polish Partisans. After the war, he immigrated to America and settled in Memphis. He attended Memphis State University and graduated in three years. He then joined the Marine Corps serving in the Korean War for two years. He went on to become an attorney and CPA, working daily to help his clients while quietly giving to hundreds in need, refusing to allow anyone to know of his numerous gifts. I had the privilege of attending his funeral as the Marines helped his family lay Ted Winestone’s body to rest in a traditional Orthodox Jewish funeral. The celebration of a life that had touched so many from Memphis to Poland to Israel.
In a world that celebrates youth and fame, Peggy and Ted give us a picture of the Godly call to work quietly serving our fellow Memphians.
Seek the Peace and Prosperity of Memphis.
Jim Walker
1. Carol Larocca, Stephanie Truitt & Frank Saitta 2. Janeen Gordon & Melissa Burgess 3. Shajuana Ransom, Shama Edwards & Leslie Brown
Signed copies of these wonderful books and many others are available at Novel in Laurelwood for gifting this holiday season!
In the midst of a revolution, young Marisol is forced to flee the life she knows and loves in vibrant Cuba. Marisol's Dress is inspired by the journey of author and artist EMYO's own family. Featuring the lively impressionist art of EMYO herself, this book leaves young readers moved to face hardship with the courage and creativity of Marisol. (available November 22)
Unfolding over seventy years through a chorus of unforgettable voices, Memphis paints an indelible portrait of inheritance, celebrating the full complexity of what we pass down, in a family and as a country: brutality and justice, faith and forgiveness, sacrifice and love.
BY MARK GREANEY
A standalone action thriller from Gray Man author and Memphian Mark Greaney, inspired by #1 New York Times best-selling Audible Original drama, Armored WILD RIDE
BY HAYLEY ARCENEAUX
In this boldly optimistic memoir, the youngest American to ever orbit the earth—cancer survivor and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital PA Hayley Arceneaux—shows us all that when we face our fears with hope and faith, extraordinary things can happen.
BY EMILY MORRISON; ILLUSTRATED BY PAM MCDONNELL
First-time author Emily Morrison offers a vision of kindness, acceptance, and understanding in unsettled times within this beautiful poem, featuring the delightful illustrations of accomplished Memphis artist Pam McDonnell.
An all-new re-imagining of the legendary Black Panther comics arc, Panther's Rage, from award-winning author and Memphian Sheree Renée Thomas.
Nashville-based country music legend Rodney Crowell shares pages from his lyric notebooks, personal photographs, and scribbles that reveal the heart of one of this generation’s finest songwriters.
387 Perkins Ext. (901) 922-5526
Photography by Mark Ramirez
enjoyed an amazing night of music featuring 20 world-renowned trumpet legends and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra led by Music Director Robert Moody. Gary Beard & Joe Lackie chaired this stellar event held September 24 at The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. After the concert, there was more music from the Legends along with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Renasant Convention Center’s beautifully renovated ballroom for the After-Party Jam. The Ryan Anthony Foundation raises awareness and money
& multiple myeloma. cancerblows.com
Photography by Mark Ramirez
As we approach the holiday season, you’re probably not only thinking about gifts for your family and friends, but also your charitable end-of-year gifts to local nonprofits. Though larger nonprofits often get the lion’s share of the public awareness, especially around the holidays, smaller organizations can have big impacts in the communities that they serve even though you may not even know about them. At Momentum Nonprofit Partners, we partner with organizations large and small, and we wanted to take this opportunity to share nine outstanding up-and-coming nonprofits that deserve the spotlight this holiday season.
The Women’s Advocacy Center serves women and their children in East and North Shelby County who have survived domestic abuse. Since 2018, the organization has delivered more than 350 services to women and children. The organization empowers survivors and their families through a 24-month program where women receive financial assistance for childcare, counseling, and their children’s extracurricular activities. Financial assistance may also be used for transportation needs, housing and associated costs, as well as legal representation. Recently, Women’s Advocacy Center initiated a lethality assessment program with the Collierville Police Department and the Family Violence Council of Collierville. Together, they realized a 30% reduction in domestic abuse related incidents within one year. The assessment is now referred to when sentencing abusers in the Collierville municipal court. Learn more at womensadvocacycenter.org.
Sweet Cheeks Diaper Ministry was founded to provide low income families with basic needs. They are one of only two fullservice basic needs-banks servicing the state of Tennessee. Since 2014, they have donated over one million diapers to over 10,000 families in need since 2014. The organization has been a relief for families throughout the pandemic. They were even featured on the Kelly Clarkson show and the New York Times because of their work providing diapers and basic essentials to families. The organization has been a constant resource for families during the formula shortage providing over 2,000 cans to infants in Shelby County. Learn more at sweetcheeksdiaperministry.org.
Advocates for Immigrant Rights was founded in 2018 to help ensure that all people living in this country have access to the rights and protections of our government, regardless of their immigration status. Whether the organization is helping an individual to live and work without the fear of being torn from their family or community, or working to reunite a family after years of separation, undoubtedly the most rewarding part of the work is enabling people to dream and thrive. Their clients come from all over the world - Afghanistan, Burma, Cameroon, Central and South America, and Ukraine, bringing new life to our communities and enriching the culture of Memphis. Learn more at airlegal.org.
Kevin Dean is CEO of the Momentum Nonprofit Partners. He received his Ed.D in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Vanderbilt University in 2021.
PURE began in 2016 as a platform to transform the lives and trajectory of male youth progressing under unique restraints and extremes in the Mid-South. From the beginning, PURE’s mission has been to help male youth overcome the effects of generational poverty. To support this mission, PURE partners with community champions like Global Vice President of Medtronic, Billy Albans, who among others, contribute their time and resources to ensure every student at PURE reaches his greatest potential. Today, PURE Academy is a private boarding school dedicated to improving student performance, growth and academic success in Agriculture Science, STEM, and Team Athletics. Learn more at pureacademy901.com.
While Memphis Youth Arts Initiative has only been in existence for three years, the organization has deeply touched over 100 lives with the gift of music and performing arts. Research shows that music and performing arts can actually save lives, keeping kids out of trouble and supporting their mental health. Memphis Youth Arts Initiative prides itself on providing amazing opportunities for their mentees to showcase their talents. Their mentees have already performed in more than ten cities and been on several national stages. The organization’s first two graduate alumni are both on scholarship and in college studying music! Learn more at memphisyoutharts.org.
South Side Wildcats facilitates student-athlete participation in athletics programs and academic tutoring and mentoring programs. Their faith-based, family-oriented youth development program uses a discipleship framework and curriculum. The children of the South Side Wildcats community learn to develop essential life and social skills, empathy, compassion and responsibility to their family and community. The Wildcats coaches provide positive role models to the student-athletes so that they may grow in confidence, develop self-respect, and believe in themselves so that they can reach for their highest goals. Learn more at southsidewildcats.com.
A Betor Way is one of the key, nonprofit agencies fulfilling a critical role on the frontlines of combating our community's drug epidemic. The organization provides an array of free harm reduction services such as a syringe exchange, HIV testing/ program referrals, peer recovery support, navigation to detox and rehabilitation, and overdose prevention strategies. A Betor Way is also one of Shelby County's largest distributors of free Narcan, a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. A Betor Way's weekly events are safe, structured, and provide a much-needed therapeutic atmosphere in various parts of town notoriously consumed with hurt and hardship. Learn more at abetorway.org.
Coaching for Literacy believes literacy is a fundamental right for all people. Headquartered in Memphis, Coaching for Literacy uses the power of sports to impact the current childhood literacy crisis. Because a big challenge requires a big voice, Coaching for Literacy has hosted 200+ Fight for Literacy NCAA Basketball Games to raise awareness around the issue of illiteracy, and to drive funds through corporate sponsorship and public donations to local literacy programs. Through these games, and thanks to presenting sponsor International Paper, the organization has given back $1M+ to literacy programs to help them sustain, strengthen, and scale their work. Learn more at coachingforliteracy.org.
The Community of St. Therese of Lisieux offers an important service to homeless and marginally-housed women living and working off Summer Avenue. Lisieux Community’s women’s dropin center is open Monday to Friday to provide essential services to the public. On Mondays from 12pm to 4pm, the drop-in center is open to any woman who would like to take a shower, have her laundry done, eat a meal, obtain clothing, toiletries, feminine hygiene products, condoms, Narcan, and other important items. Throughout the week, the organization advocates on their behalf, connecting them with community partners who are able to provide them with the services they need such as healthcare and mental healthcare. They even help their clients obtain an identification or social security card. Learn more at lisieuxcommunity.org.
One additional resource for finding new up-and-coming nonprofits is to visit www.livegivemidsouth.org and search a database of hundreds of nonprofits. You can also visit www.momentumnonprofit.org for additional information on nonprofits in the Mid-South.
Photography by Mark Ramirez
Photography by Mark Ramirez
Courage Thru Cancer (CTC) is a local non-profit organization
’
mission of inspiring and encouraging those
This year’s Honorees and Distinguished
by cancer. A
to supporting anyone - patient or family - whose life has been changed by cancer. The 7th annual CTC
and we are so
of CTC, visit couragethrucancer.com.
Photography by Frank Chin and Ken Hall
Located on the border of Collierville and Germantown, The Farms at Bailey Station, a brand-new
offers an unparalleled way of independent
superlative amenities and beautifully crafted residences. Plus, the full continuum of high-quality care on-site at the Jordan River Health Campus. Schedule a tour today at (901) 295-7222
S.
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60 beautifully landscaped acres, generations of caring neighbors, and nearly 40 years of history, Kirby Pines LifeCare
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Photography by Frank Chin
Tiger fans welcomed a big win September 17 as the University of Memphis football team defeated Arkansas State University 44-32. It was
Ivey Jenningsbegan making jewelry as a hobby in 2017. Since then that hobby has grown into an orange-pink-and-glitter-infused world and a successful business by the name of Mimi Morton. With an incredible online presence, an explosive social media following, retail shops, and a future to, undoubtedly, include more locations and platforms. Mimi Morton - remember that name, for sure.
Photo by Kim Thomas
“Mimi is my alter-ego,” Ivey laughed. “I grew up very traditional, in pearls, polo shirts, and cable knit and cashmere sweaters. I was probably 32 years old before I came into my own style.” Her style, be it Ivey or Mimi, is absolutely exuberant. Ivey’s middle name is Millicent, and Mimi is a nickname. Mimi Morton is the wild design side of Ivey. Mimi expresses her creative spirit in distinctive merchandise from her signature large beaded earrings to a furniture line that includes a Hermes orange dresser, and so much more. A line that is literally expanding everyday as her creative motivation is limitless.
During the pandemic, Ivey was selling Mimi Morton merchandise through Instagram and making porch deliveries. “There were no rules,” she said about traditional business models and her early success. One of her best sellers, in 2020, was the earrings and clutches featured in fun and fanciful designs, such as beaded Tigers and martini glasses, among other unfiltered and unexpected accessories. “Everyone was buying the earrings to wear on Zoom calls,” she said. “In the cocoon of the pandemic, the Mimi Morton lifestyle emerged.”
Ivey credits her mom as one of her design inspirations. Originally from Atlanta, Ivey grew up learning and watching her mom, Robyn, a successful interior designer. This included frequent trips to fabric and furniture stores, attending antique auctions, and assisting in design reveals and installations. She also used her art talent to help create custom designs. It was infused in her from a very early age.
Another important inspiration for Ivey is Tameka Raymond. Tameka has styled celebrities from Tina Turner to Beyoncé, and Ivey worked with Tameka while in Atlanta. One of the profound lessons she learned from Tameka is to make it your own. Tameka’s son Ryan Glover is now a quarterback at the University of Memphis, and on a recent visit to Memphis to watch Ryan play, Ivey commented on Tameka’s pants. “They were a pair she had bought at Old Navy, but she had splashed them with bleach, added patches, and painted on them. She made them her own, and that is one of the best lessons I learned from her,” Ivey said.
Ivey moved, with her then significant other, to Memphis from New York, and began working as the Executive Assistant to Karen Carlisle at Carlisle Corporation, where she worked for four years. Ivey still works privately today alongside Karen as her Personal Assistant. In early 2020, after a trip to market with her mom, Ivey’s creative wheels were turning. So during the pandemic, she decided that she would do trunk shows of gifts and accessories. Much to her surprise, and before she could even have her first trunk show, she sold all of her inventory through Instagram flash sales and word of mouth. Mimi Morton started from a small studio - the size of a walk-in closet - at the Art Factory on Cox Street behind Palladio. Ivey began building what she fondly called her “side hustle.” It was here that Palladio found her and offered her a booth in Palladio Interiors.
With so many life changes and a new booming business, she realized her passion was building her businesses. This led her to apply her own style in creating her own home. “When I moved to Memphis, everything was gray, white, and subdued Pottery Barn. I decided to throw out the gray sofa, and I got an orange one,” she laughed. The outward expression of vibrant colors was a reflection of Ivey’s personal feelings and coming into her own style. She was finally at home with her style, and not only her personal space, but with the liberating revelation of Mimi Morton.
Ivey moved to Memphis five years ago and is here to stay. “If you love Memphis, Memphis will love you back.” She is definitely feeling the love since her humble beginnings of porch deliveries. Mimi Morton has a pop-up space at Saddle Creek, and is one of only two locally-owned businesses in the shopping center. She is continuing her space at Palladio in Midtown, plus a space in the Mustard Seed in Oxford.
In becoming Mimi, Ivey has embraced all things that glitter, especially disco balls, and she has created a unique, exuberant style. Welcome to Memphis Ivey, and Memphis meet your new biggest fan - and the most exciting transplant who will certainly leave the Bluff City more colorful than she found it!
Photo by Jay Adkins Photo by Jay AdkinsPeggySibley Heard loves her job in customer service at Oak Hall. She answers the phone, gets the clothes ready for client pick-up, and does whatever they need her to do at Oak Hall.
Every work morning Peggy gets dressed, packs her lunch, and works about eight hours a day, four days a week. Sounds pretty typical. What is so special about this? Well, Peggy is 91, and she absolutely loves going to work! “I like what I am doing, working has been great for me - for my mind, my body and my sanity,” Peggy says.
Work outside of the home was the furthest thing from Peggy’s mind up until her job at Oak Hall because the last time Peggy had worked outside the home was in the 1950s as a teacher. She spent her years as wife to John “Jack” Houx Heard, Jr. and a stay-at-home mom raising their two children, Holly Suzanne Langenfelder and John Houx Heard III.
Thirty-three years ago, Jack was semi-retired so to cover their insurance Peggy went back to work. “I went to work at Oak Hall because my husband and I needed health insurance. I fell in love with the Levys, and I have been here ever since.”
What was that first day like for Peggy? “I was frightened I guess you would say, having been in the home for many years not being in the work world, I was very unfamiliar with it. It was very hard on me, but Bill Levy was my inspiration, he helped me through it, and I made it!”
Peggy is so happy she stuck with her job at Oak Hall, and credits her happiness, sense of purpose, and general well being to the fact that she works and loves her workplace at Oak Hall so much. “Through
the years I have made wonderful friends with the people I work with and our customers. They are wonderful!” Peggy says.
So why work at the age of 91? “Staying home with my children was very important for me, but I love the public and I love the customer, and to me, work is a pleasure. I enjoy it! It is hard sometimes because I am older but working has been good for me and has helped me take care of myself,” Peggy says.
Peggy says it gives her purpose, happiness, and organization in her daily life. “Working allows me to be out and about, and the people I work with are wonderful people, they are kind, smart, and easy to work with. We are blessed here, this is my second family,”
Peggy says.
Another reason Peggy loves to work is that it gets her mind off herself. “You don’t have time to worry about your aches and pains because you are so busy. You get up and get going, and that is why work is so good for me.”
Peggy says not working during the pandemic was not fun for hershe really missed going to work! “It drove me crazy because I was so used to working. I did everything to try to keep myself busy - I was so bored. When I came back to work, I was not fearful but I took all the precautions, wore my mask like I should,” Peggy says.
“Family and church are the most important things to me in the world, and my job is too.” Peggy has four grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Peggy gives it her all at work, at the end of the work day, she leaves feeling fulfilled and happy.
Photography by Frank Chin
Cooper-Young is Memphis’ largest historic district, and on September 17 the entire neighborhood celebrated with the 34th annual Cooper-Young festival. The weather was perfect, the 435 artisans offered beautiful wares, and great bands played throughout the day. It’s no wonder this is one of the most anticipated festivals! cooperyoungfestival.com
Photography by Steve Roberts
9155 Poplar Ave. Suite 18 • 901.474.7427 @holliewinter_finejewelry • Hollie Winter Fine Jewelry
It’s that time of year when children ask Santa for toys. I thought, “why not ask Santa what to wear for the holidays?” Upon calling the North Pole, an elf practitioner promptly called Santa to the phone. “What to wear?” he said with a ho ho ho! Santa then told me his elves were busy loading his sleigh with designer fabrics, sequins, and sparkle - unlike last year's bundles of Covid masks.
Santa went on to say that “fun” was already on everyone’s list. It's time to get dressed up and put away those comfort clothes. As he spoke, my mind began to recall Christmases past and all that glitters and shines.
I immediately thought of a family friend from the Delta. Everyone fondly referred to her as the original Christmas tree. During the Christmas holidays she was always covered with diamonds. They were the old kind that sparkled from a mile away. She would often say, “Every gull (delta speak for girl) needs to sparkle!”
That’s this season’s message according to Santa and the fashion experts.
Shiny surfaces, sequins, feathers and voluminous silhouettes are what you need for holiday dazzle! Santa further exclaimed, as he bid me goodnight, the last fashion tips to get it just right.
- Deck the halls with glamorous style
- Tis the season to be jolly donning sparkle just like Dolly
- Wear holiday makeup that you would even say “it glows”
Last year Covid was what many of us received for the holidays - BAH! Humbug to that! This year Vogue says, “Put a bow on it and be the present you want to receive.”
No matter what you wear to this year’s parties … add a little sparkle. You can even wear diamonds on the souls of your shoes - as Paul Simon claims on his Graceland album. This season we’re all going to Graceland… Graceland… Memphis, Tennessee.
Honey Harvest was held September 25 at the Harvest Moon Pavilion Barn at Lanier Park in Germantown. The fall honey harvest provided the inspiration for the event supporting Thistle & Bee, an organization that offers women hope and healing through a holistic residential and therapeutic clinical program and employment to break the cycle of poverty. Guests enjoyed the unique, outdoor lawn and barn event that featured live music, food by local chefs, and fantastic silent auction items, all to benefit this wonderful organization. thistleandbee.org
Photos courtesy of Advance Memphis
Advance Memphis celebrated its 12th annual Art for Jobs Art Sale & Fundraiser by bringing back an in-person preview party at their 575 Suzette Street warehouse-turned-urban art gallery. Art for Jobs is their largest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds going toward their work in equipping adults in South Memphis to join the workforce and break cycles of unemployment. The week of events included an opening night preview party, along with two preview days where guests could view the art in person, and ended with a virtual sale online. Through the generous support of artists, donors, volunteers and patrons, Advance Memphis raised over $233,000! advancememphis.org
Photos submitted by Marx-Bensdorf
The Marx-Bensdorf team celebrated raising a record $20,419 in support of William H. Brewster Elementary! The fundraising event was hosted by Jimmy Reed and David Tester, owners Marx-Bensdorf Realtors, and the funds raised will provide young scholars with 876 uniforms that will keep them dressed for success throughout the school year. Marx-Bensdorf colleagues, friends and supporters came together to make this year’s fundraiser an unprecedented success. These efforts show what positive things can happen when community joins together for a good time and a great cause!
This Realtor Associate of exceptional character and reputation has joined our firm. Contact her at: Cell: (901) 652-2900 • Office (901) 682-1868 mfauser@m-brealtors.com • www.Marx-Bensdorf.com
BrothersNathan and Louis Bry may have been from St. Louis, but they made a mark in Memphis retail history. They founded Bry’s Department Store in 1902, and grew their store into a Downtown shopping destination. Anchoring the north end of Main Street, they were one of the four major department stores Downtown, with Goldsmith’s on the south end of Main, and Gerber's and Lowenstein’s in between.
In 1933, Bry’s made a notable improvement to their corner at Main and Jefferson with the addition of a huge, four-color neon sign spelling out the name of their store. The colors of red, green, gold, and blue must have been quite a beacon for shoppers!
The Bry’s brothers were instrumental in promoting the career of W.C. Handy when in 1912 they were the first store to sell his sheet music. They recognized the importance of television, and embraced the new technology to promote their business. Bry’s was the first of the “big four” Downtown department stores to hire women as clerks. During their “Daring Sale,” they doubled the number of sales clerks, and it was advertised as the “South’s largest sale event.”
In 1956, Lowenstein’s bought Bry’s, and despite many creative retailing ideas and marketing innovations, the store eventually closed in 1964. While I do not have any personal memories of shopping at Bry’s, I do have this charming coloring book memento from my mother’s shopping days there. Shop local, Memphis - our retailers matter and are making history!
Photo courtesy of Historic Memphis
Photography by Frank Chin
The 2022 edition of the Memphis Food & Wine Festival was held October 15 at Memphis Botanic Garden’s Radians Amphitheater and featured Memphis’ culinary excellence along with acclaimed regional, national and international chefs, vintners, and certified sommeliers. MFWF is a registered 501(c)(3) founded by a handful of Memphians with three passions in common – food, wine and the Memphis community. This year the festival benefitted the Mid-South Food Bank. We are already looking forward to the 2023 festival! memphisfoodwinefestival.org
Photography by Mark Ramirez
mobile: 901.356.1347 office: 901-217-4000
Photography by Austin Stuart
Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum produced the 10th annual Memphis Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on September 15 at the Cannon Center. The evening featured tributes
great musical
The elite roster of eight Memphis music icons
this year are Fred Ford, Booker T. Jones, Jim Gaines, Ronnie Milsap, Priscilla Presley, Billy Lee Riley, Mavis Staples, and J.M. Van Eaton. It was a
night
In contrast to the high-speed pace that our world operates in, Danny Cosby lives a life that prioritizes the importance of slowing down, being present, and paying attention to people that society tends to overlook. In 2014, Danny published a memoir titled Heroin Jesus, in which he recounts his personal experience with homelessness, life in prison, and his struggle with addiction. Since his release from prison in 2009, Danny has spent his time performing in the Hope Presbyterian Church band, leading worship services in homeless shelters and prisons, and helping countless individuals navigate the complicated journey of sobriety. “Every day when my feet hit the floor, if I am not thinking about my music, I’m thinking about developing a vision of helping others get out of their personal quicksand and back on their feet,” Danny says.
Danny describes his childhood as “growing up in a house full of love.” Both his parents came from abusive homes, but they pledged to break that cycle for their children. Danny spent Sunday mornings in a church where his father would preach. However, Danny characterizes his experience with the church as “one of those churches that if you do better, God loves you more. And if you mess up, He will come after you with a gavel and judge you. This bled into my viewpoint and understanding of God as a judge waiting for me to mess up.” At 18, Danny dove headfirst into addiction. He describes this period in his life as running away from anything and everything that had to do with God and religion.
For the next 7 years, Danny’s addiction spiraled out of control with prescription pills and other hard substances. As a result, he was homeless and stealing to fund his addiction. Danny had the option of returning home to his parents, but that would require him to get sober, something he was unwilling to do. But, on September 18, 2005, Danny’s life changed when a taxi cab driver stopped and asked if he needed a ride; the driver took him to a homeless shelter. When he arrived, a pastor was preaching a sermon that fixated on God’s unfailing love for his children despite the mistakes they had made. This was something Danny had never heard before. He remembers this pivotal moment as “something happened in me, and I think it was because I had finally opened my heart to receive love from God. God loves me, and he is not
coming after me to judge me.” For the next month, Danny stayed in the shelter, attended more services, and focused on getting healthy.
Soon after, on October 27, 2005, Danny appeared in a courtroom at 201 Poplar to face a misdemeanor charge. He was not expecting the list of additional felonies the state had compiled against him, and Danny was arrested immediately. His sentencing required him to serve two years in Memphis and two years in Mississippi. When asked about his experience in prison, Danny replied, “prison became a palace because I had Jesus.” He considered his four-year sentence as a time to slow down, reflect, and share his testimony with other inmates. Many of whom had a similar story to Danny. During his incarceration, Danny wrote his first album titled “Bunk 51." It is a ten-track album that encapsulates the peace Danny has made with his past but also encourages anyone dealing with their struggles, whatever they may be, that you, too, can surrender the burden of your past self.
When Danny was released from prison, he described it as “an amplification and continuation of the life God wanted to build for him.” Despite his extremely successful music career, Danny still finds time to lead worship services in prison and homeless shelters. Not only does Danny lead worship services, but he also understands the importance of passing along crucial life skills. He leads classes that are not only focused on the spiritual side of things but also the practical such as writing checks and understanding how to balance financials.
Danny met his wife Johanna 12 years ago. He describes Johanna’s meaning in his life as “God used her to love the unlovable parts of me.” If it was not for Johanna’s unyielding support and encouragement of Danny, he claims he would have never written his book, recorded, and released his two CDs.
You can find Danny’s memoir Heroin Jesus available for purchase online. You can also stream his two albums, “Bunk 51” and “Christmas Time,” on Spotify. He is currently finalizing his third album with producer Garry Goin and Grapevine Squared. If you are interested in learning more about Danny’s ministry, please visit his Facebook page: Danny Cosby Music Ministries.
Photography by Steve Roberts
The 38th annual Ostrander Awards, held August 28 at the Halloran Centre in downtown Memphis, spotlighted excellence in theater in Memphis. Theatre Memphis was presented with 28 of 31 awards as talent from the shows were honored and performed in group categories and as casts. Special awards were also given for lifetime achievements. The Ostrander awards are named for the beloved Memphis actor Jim Ostrander, who passed away in 2002, and was known as much for his generosity on stage and his mentorship as he was for his talent. memphisostranders.com
The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law Alumni Chapter at the University of Memphis honored excellence in law at the Pillars of Excellence Law Alumni Chapter Awards on August 20 at FedExForum. The 2022 Pillars of Excellence honorees are: Lee J. Chase III, Glankler Brown, PLLC; David J. Harris (JD ’76), Burch, Porter, & Johnson, PLLC; Honorable Janice M. Holder, retired chief justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court; Allie J. Prescott III (BA ’69, JD ’72) senior vice president, Waddell & Associates, Inc.; Honorable Diane K. Vescovo (JD ’80) retired chief magistrate judge, Western District of Tennessee of the U.S. District Court. The Law Alumni Chapter also honored Bill Nixon, retired architect, Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects, Inc. as 2022 Friend of the Law School. For more information, visit alumni.memphis.edu/pillars2022.
1. Costume Design for a Play: Ashley Selberg, The Secret Garden, Next Stage, Theatre Memphis 2. Best Production of a Play: American Son, Next Stage, Theatre Memphis 3. Leading Actress in a Musical: Lauren Duckworth, Ragtime, Lohrey Theatre, Theatre Memphis 4. Lighting Design for a Musical: Mandy Kay Heath, Urinetown, Lohrey Theatre, Theatre Memphis
By Lesley Harris Colvett
Aswinter approaches and daylight decreases, safety becomes a priority while we are out and about. I chatted with Marti Miller, a private investigator, police officer for 22 years (actually one of the first female police officers in the United States), and self-defense expert, for tips on how to stay safe and not to be a victim.
Marti Miller knows the streets because up until age five she literally lived on the streets. “I recall when I was 4 years old, living on the streets and stealing food,before I got adopted and got great parents. One day there was this drunk woman trying to grab me, a nice policeman came and picked me up and brought me back to the police department. He sat me up on the booking desk. The drunk woman came in cussing and the officer put his hat over my eyes so I couldn't see her (he didn’t want me watching that stuff. And I decided at that time that I wanted to be a police officer. I remember this like it was yesterday,” Marti says. Marti was then put in an orphanage. When she was almost five years old she got adopted. “I got adopted and got GREAT parents. I’m one of the luckiest people on the planet. I was adopted by two of the most wonderful parents. I went from living on the streets stealing food to being the daughter of the Vice President of Bertram Yacht Company. They loved me,” Marti says.
“My dad taught me if you are going to make anything out of your life you need three things: honor, dignity and grace. The honor is for yourself, your family, and your country. Love and honor your country! The dignity is your demeanor, how you treat others, and the way you speak. The grace is helping others, helping yourself, dressing properly and always being 15 minutes early, if you are caught in traffic give the courtesy to call and advise you are running late. These three things are what you need to be successful. It worked back then and it still works today,” Marti says.
In 1974, Marti achieved her dream of becoming a police officer - and actually became one of the first police women in the country. “I got to do what I do, and because of my background on the streets, I can have sympathy for people, without mollycoddling them. It is important to also teach people how to take care of themselves.”
Marti says the key to not becoming a victim is to be prepared. Here is some of her top advice:
1. Pay attention. Look around you. If you have someone walking behind you, pick up the phone and call 911. When getting home, check your surroundings. If you think you are in trouble, honk your car horn and call 911 DO NOT pull into your driveway Go directly to the police department.
2. Lock your doors right when you get in your car. Look in the backseat before you enter your vehicle to make sure there is not anyone sitting in there. Don’t use the key fob far away from your car to unlock the door as someone can enter your vehicle without you being aware.
3. Never yell for “help”, yell “fire” instead. When people hear “help” it could be domestic and they may not want to get involved, but if they hear fire they look for the smoke and fire and are much more willing to gather around. If you do hear someone yell “help” call 911.
4. Carry pepper foam rather than pepper spray. The spray is light and can blow back on you.
5. DON'T ever leave pepper foam in your car ESPECIALLY in the summer months. It is pressurized and can explode.
6. Don’t wear a scarf around your neck because your attacker can use the scarf to control you or tie you up with it.
7. Don’t wear a crossbody purse because you can get grabbed from behind and you are now a human "slingshot"!
8. Walk with confidence
Life isn’t as scary as we think it is, and if we live in fear we no longer have a life. So be prepared and pay attention to what is around you.
Marti says if you think you need to carry a weapon....for goodness sakes get trained! Top Gun has classes for women and helps them feel comfortable with weapons.
Marti believes everyone needs to know how to keep themselves safe, and she gives free self-defense classes to individuals or to groups as a way to give back to her community. She will come to your schools, churches or homes. You can contact her via email: marti4488@gmail.com
Marti and her adopted rescue dog, Baylee Sue
Photography by Mark Ramirez
The Toasted Yolk hosted a grand opening celebration on October 3. Breakfast lovers enjoyed yummy cuisine, giveaways, and special prices on beverages. Proceeds from the grand opening benefited Courage Thru Cancer. Located at 9087 Poplar Avenue, this is the first location in Tennessee for the Texas-based restaurant.
Photography by Susan Walker
The Liquid Legacy is changing the world by providing safe drinking water, medical missions and community development. They recently held a sporting clay shoot September 25 at Mallard’s Croft in Byhalia, Mississippi. Clay shooters of all levels - from beginners to avid hunters - enjoyed the festivities to support The Liquid Legacy, a Christ-centered non-profit organization committed to empowering individuals and groups in Peru and Abaco with the necessary skills and resources to effect change in their communities. theliquidlegacy.org
1. Bretton DeJesus, Katie Mattison & Monnikka Burton 2. Tommy Kiggins & Kristy Pelt 3. Crystal & Marc Mannella, Hayley Carroll, Dr. Rachel Dickens & Brian Mannella
Asall things spooky and kooky turn to those merry & bright, at the Garden, we are busy getting our 96 acres of grounds ready for winter from refreshing annual beds and planting bulbs to rehousing tropicals back into greenhouses and hanging lights for our seasonal light exhibition, Holiday Wonders at the Garden. Although there is quite a bustle of activity outside, there is also a transformation happening inside our Visitors Center. Each November and December, we host Gifts of Green, our seasonal popup shop, which complements our year-round gift shop to provide guests a one-stop shop during the holiday season.
Whether shoppers are looking to add a festive, seasonal touch to home decor or purchase distinctive gifts, our shop offers a unique and colorful variety of locally sourced greenery and gift items. Gifts of Green at the Garden will feature planters, tropical plants, and a diverse assortment of pots and planters so shoppers can pick a pot and pick a plant and put them together for a custom gift. We will also have a variety of ornaments, most handmade and fair trade, poinsettias, and other holiday-themed items. In early November, shoppers will find selections perfect for the Thanksgiving table and autumnal decor. Selections change with the season so shoppers should stop by often.
With a large variety of wares for all ages and all budgets, it is the perfect place to procure gifts for everyone on your list. Here are a few of our recommendations:
For the Green Thumb: Whether you're shopping for a Master Gardener or a patio planter, the Garden has you covered with a variety of garden items. Try a gardening tool, book, or gloves paired with a planter for a complete package.
For the Person with Everything: We all have folks on our list that
are impossible to shop for. We recommend gifts that keep on giving and experience gifts to bring delight this season. A membership to the Garden offers year-round fun, visits, and discounts.
For the World Traveler: Your favorite world traveler is most likely longing for their next long haul. Why not spruce up their home base with a tropical plant to remind them of warmer days far away? These planters also make a great teacher's gift!
For the Young (and Young-at-Heart): Kids' garden activity sets are perfect for your favorite budding green thumb! Creative kiddos can dig into their next masterpiece with a set of Crayon Rocks while future ornithologists will enjoy a DIY birdhouse. Looking for something to do together? Try out a colorful puzzle.
For the Host & Hostess with the Mostest: Delight every host and hostess on your list with one-of-a-kind gifts to enhance any holiday home! Gifts of Green features plants ready to take center stage at any gathering. We also have a variety of homewares, such as colorful dishtowels featuring flora and fauna to add a splash of vibrance to any kitchen & so much more!
For the Music Lover: Music lovers will kick up their heels and get down with a Live at the Garden gift certificate for the 2023 season available in any amount.
Stocking Stuffers: We offer a number of small gift items perfect for filling stockings to the brim with cheer. We suggest seed packets which recipients will use well into the new year, ornaments, and magnets.
Add Gifts of Green to your must-shop list this season and know you are supporting year-round programming and horticultural efforts at the Garden. The Garden is open daily from 9am-4:30pm. We hope to see you soon!
Social: A Shop for Gracious Living
Beautiful designer jewelrypieces, $300+
Kittie Kyle
Monies necklace, $749 Moines earrings, $175
Lansky 126 "Elvis" Movie Belt Buckle, $48
The Pink Door Paradise blanket, $58
Oak Hall J. Lowery purse, $450
Vahan Blue Topaz & Diamond bracelet - Sterling Silver with 14kt yellow gold accents. 3 emerald cut London Blue Topaz stones surrounded by diamond halos, 0.24cttw
Social: A Shop for Gracious Living
Beautiful designer jewelrypieces, $300+
Simon
ZO
Annieglass
for
Tree
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Vietri Old St. Nick 2022 Limited Edition Square Platter, $154
pieces
$39 and
Orpheum Theatre Group 2022 Ornament featuring the Orpheum chandelier; available at orpheum-memphis.com.
Lisa
Baron's Man Cave Ridge Wallets in aluminum,
has many “firsts” and “onlys” in our history, and that continues to be true today with the addition of the new Hyatt Centric and Caption hotels. Did you know there was never a hotel with a Beale Street address until the Hyatt Centric opened in 2021? And the Caption by Hyatt, located next door to the Centric, is the first and only one of this Hyatt brand in the entire world? Not only do these snazzy new hotels boast great views of the Mississippi River and Downtown, but both properties are also creating a Memphis experience with local decor, foods, and beverages.
Situated at the top of the bluff, this location has always been desirable. In the first iteration, when Memphis was a booming cotton town, this was home to an industrial warehouse and machine shop. With legalities of easement lines, local and federal statutes, and racial divides, Beale Street and the surrounding area was not seen as having tourism possibilities. Not until Gene Carlisle came along in the 1980s did anyone with the wherewithal and long-range vision even imagine such a thing; but he did. Gene passed away before the project came to completion, but his son Chance also believed in his wild idea, and now there is the first hotel in Memphis history to have a proper Beale Street address.
The Caption shares the Centric’s historic bluff-top location, and it is keeping the integrity of the origin dating back to 1879. The historic William C. Ellis & Sons Ironworks building now serves as shared meeting space for the two hotels. As the site was being prepared for construction, iron pieces left behind from another era were uncovered. Working
with the Metal Museum, these relics were incorporated into the lobby counter at the Hyatt Centric. The Front Street entrance is a signature part of the Caption with Talk Shop at Ellis. The white brick exterior of the original building was preserved to create Talk Shop and the open-air beer garden. Talk Shop serves as a gathering spot for everything from coffee to cocktails and is the heart of the hotel as well as a neighborhood gathering spot. Grind City Brewing crafted Wm. C. Pilsner, a custom beer that is served only at the Caption.
In addition to the Grind City-Caption collaborative beer, both hotels are supporting several local Memphis vendors. Raw Girls, Muddy’s Bake Shop, and Wrapzody can be picked up in the grab-and-go areas. They also contracted with locally-owned Galler Foods and Reflections Executive Commercial Cleaners for hotel services.
For the winter season, Hyatt is debuting the Rise and 'Shine at Centric package. The package includes accommodations, a Beck & Call credit to sip on the custom Beck & Call x Ole Smoky cocktail, as well as a “pairs well with” Memphis & Ole Smoky flight amenity. Think: Ole Smoky Peanut Butter Whiskey pairing well with the Arcade for Elvis' fried PB&J sandwich. This package is ideal for out of town family visiting over the holidays or a mid-winter, Memphis stay-cation.
Memphis’ Hyatt Centric and Caption hotels are making Memphis history, and these new landmarks are a vibrant addition to Downtown for visitors and locals alike.
Top,
from
Location: Hyatt Centric & Hyatt
McKendree
Anna McCabe/Colors
Makeup: Matt Gossett
Jonathan Watkins/Eden
Dress, jacket, purse, and shoes from Oak Hall
Jumpsuit from Mimi Morton Coat from Lansky 126 Shoes from Joseph in Laurelwood Earrings from Kittie Kyle
Dress and earrings from The Pink Door Shoes from Joseph in Laurelwood
Dress from Sorelle Boutique Coat from Lansky 126 Shoes and purse from Oak Hall
