TRAVEL: TURKS & CAICOS
FROM HISTORIC HOME TO A
MODERN MASTERPIECE
CONTENTS AUGUST 2015
24
24 HOME A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH Memphis designers Tim Tanner and Kip Meyer renovate a historic home in Midtown Memphis to create a modern masterpiece
56 TRAVEL TURKS AND CAICOS A look inside the beauty and splendor of the islands of the Turks and Caicos
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! 6 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2015
CONTENTS AUGUST 2015
F O R YO U 18 wellness Pediatric Health Visits 19 healthy you Healthy Eating on the Go 20 beauty A Good Foundation 90 on a good note Wings Polo Classic
HOME & DESIGN 22 at home with Sherry May 34 design The Living Room 40 style marketplace Living Room Items
34
44 technology Fingerprint Security Access 46 home trends New Home Closing Regulations
T R AV E L & C U L T U R E 48 visit this Arlington, Tennessee 52 getaway Chattanooga,Tennessee 64 social pages 70 arts Celebrating the Arts at GPAC 72 experience this The B.B. King Museum
FOOD & DRINK 76 entertaining Noah’s Ark themed baby shower 82 in the kitchen Updated Classic Recipes 84 dining out Sky Box Grill and Bar 86 happy hour “Thyme for the Blues” Cocktail
IN EVERY ISSUE 12 | PUBLISHER’S NOTE
76 8 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
14 | CONTRIBUTORS 89 | SOURCES
AUGUST 2015 • VOL. 14 NO. 5 PUBLISHER/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com
EDITOR LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT | lcolvett@athomemms.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR LAURIE A. SUMMERS | lsummers@athomemms.com
PHOTOGRAPHY & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT SUZIE HANSEN | shansen@athomemms.com
COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER
IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com
ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MEGAN EIDT | meidt@gmail.com JEANNETTE MYERS | jmyers@athomemms.com
BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com
MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com
WEBMASTER LAURIE A. SUMMERS | lsummers@athomemms.com
CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS JOHN TERRY, KATHARINE TERRY, SUZIE HANSEN
INTERNS EMRY HAYES, CLAIRE PEELER, KATHARINE TERRY
HOW TO REACH US 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200 | Cordova, TN 38018 TOLL FREE 877.684.4155 | FAX 866.354.4886 WEBSITE: athomemms.com
At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 877.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 671 N. Ericson Rd., Suite 200, Cordova, TN 38018 or to tmonger@athomemms.com. 10 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
publisher’s note
Back to
Basics
I
can’t believe it is August and the last official month of summer. Many of you are getting your children ready to go back to school. With all the negative energy that seems to be attacking and smothering our country these days, maybe we should all be reminded the basics we learned in our kindergarten classrooms. Many people can solve the most difficult mathematical problem and even recite the Periodic Table, but the most important lessons in life seem to have fallen by the wayside. We really did learn the most important things in life in kindergarten. “Share everything. Play fair. Don’t hit people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your own mess. Don’t take things that aren’t yours. Say you are sorry when you hurt someone. Wash your hands before you eat. Flush. Warm cookies and milk are good for you. Live a balanced life. Learn some and think some. Draw, paint, sing and dance. Play and work some every day. Take a nap every afternoon. When you go out in the world, look out for traffic. Hold hands and stick together. Be aware of wonder.” A few more lessons that might be good to add: “Say please and thank you. Treat others like you would want to be treated. We don’t always have to agree, but we do need to remember to treat others with respect.” If everyone truly followed these simple lessons, I do believe our world would be a much happier place than it is now. That is my little rant after all the negative happenings that our country has encountered this month. I pray for all the victims and their families that were so unjustly murdered in Charleston and Chattanooga. I also pray for peace. Yes, I pray and I pray to God, and for any of those who might be offended by that, I pray for you, as well. Wishing all of you a peaceful August.
12 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
contributors Kristi Edwards MS, RDN, LDN, CLC • Healthy You is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist as well as a Certified Lactation Counselor at Regional One Health. She was named “Outstanding Dietetics Student” her senior year at the University of Tennessee at Martin, and went on to obtain her Master's in Dietetics from the University of Memphis. Her interests include diabetes, chronic kidney disease, weight management and corporate wellness.
Jordana White • Home is a lifestyle writer and editor. In addition to contributing to At Home Memphis & Mid South magazine, she writes for nationally distributed Life & Style magazine and several online outlets. Once a resident of Nashville, she now lives in New York with her husband Ian and two young sons, Brayden and Cooper.
April McKinney • In The Kitchen is an award-winning cook, food writer and recipe demonstrator. She has been featured on the Today show and Better TV, after her recipes won national cooking contests. You can also see her creating new healthy and simple dishes on her YouTube channel, “April McKinney Cooking,” where she demonstrates her recipes on camera.
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Corinth
wellness
Pediatric
Health Visits Text by Aimee Christian, MD and Janet Dellinger, MD
Y
our week is packed: work, school, sports, but it is all organized on your calendar. Then your child brings home a sports form. Due soon! It seems as though all you need is a doctor’s signature. You can go to the retail clinic, get your child a sports “physical” and get that signature. Then it’s done, right?
The goal of primary care physicians is to provide comprehensive, quality, patient-centered care. The American Academy of Pediatrics first introduced the concept in 1967. Initially this was to provide care for children with special health-care needs, but primary care has expanded to become a medical home base for all children. Pediatricians coordinate care both for physical and mental health for their patients.
Think again. Your child needs to go to his medical home—the pediatrician, who is a specialist in children and adolescents from birth to college and your source for health care, parenting and behavioral advice. In addition to getting that form signed, your child will receive a comprehensive annual physical exam. The pediatrician has your child’s records. How much did she grow in the past year? Was the amount of weight he gained appropriate for his age and height? Are all her immunizations up to date? What are the latest recommendations for his age group? Do his medications need adjustments or refills? Does she need to be referred to a pediatric subspecialist? Your pediatrician will update your family history in your child’s chart and review it each year. Usually the retail clinic will charge $35. Most wellchild care, which includes sports physicals, now requires no copay at a pediatrician’s office.
Is there a place for retail or urgent-care clinics? A visit after hours for a sore throat, an ear ache or other acute medical issue is fine, but with close follow-up by your pediatrician. A sports or camp physical, however, should be performed by a doctor who knows the child or adolescent and will be following them.
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If you don’t have a medical home for your child, seek out a board-certified pediatrician now and establish care. Schedule an annual checkup every year. When that sports form comes due, you only need to contact your pediatrician and get it filled out. You’ll know that the paper is signed by a specialist who knows your child, your family history and is well versed in the care of children and adolescents. Remember, kids are not just little adults. They need a specialist and that specialist is your pediatrician.
healthy you
TIPS FOR EATING HEALTHY WITH A BUSY SCHEDULE TEXT BY KRISTI EDWARDS, MS, RDN, LDN, CLC
A
ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fast food contributed to 11.3% of U.S. adults’ daily caloric intake from 2007 to 2010. In today’s fast-paced society, Americans seem to prefer convenience over quality, consuming large amounts of ready-to-eat processed and packaged foods. Unfortunately, this lifestyle leads to the consumption of fewer nutrient-dense foods and a greater number of calories. In fact, fast-food consumption is directly correlated with obesity, and obesity puts us at risk for developing chronic illnesses. The good news, however, is that with the right nutritional knowledge, you can begin to make more informed decisions about what you are putting into your body. You can make healthy food choices regardless of a busy schedule and despite those frequent lunch outings with coworkers! Healthy eating and exercise are important in preventing chronic illness. Some of the leading causes of death in the United States, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer, are largely preventable with a healthy lifestyle, which includes the consumption of nutritious foods. Not only does a healthy lifestyle help to prevent chronic illness, but studies show it also improves mood, cognition, energy and performance. PLAN AHEAD You’ve heard the saying,“failing to plan is planning to fail.” Set aside time for the grocery store or farmer’s market each week. It is important to take inventory before setting off for the store to prevent food waste, lost time and unnecessary spending. Planning ahead might mean something different to you than to your friends. Some people like to set aside a few minutes each night to pack lunch or snacks for the following day. Others prefer to spend an hour or two on the weekends to cook and portion food into containers for the next few days. Find what works best for you. WHAT TO EAT If you’re wondering where to start, fruits and vegetables might be a good place. Fewer than 20% of Americans consume the recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables and whole grains each day. USDA recommends a minimum of five servings of fruits and vegetables. In general, a serving size is about one cup of fresh fruit or vegetables, however, if the fruits or vegetables are
chopped or cooked, then half a cup equals one serving size. When going out to eat, look for meals that incorporate some kind of fresh fruit or vegetable. Choose lean meats such as chicken, turkey or fish, as well as plant-based sources of protein like beans, nuts and legumes. The USDA also recommends KRISTI EDWARDS, MS, RDN, LDN, CLC that at least half of your grain intake be whole grains. Begin to minimize your intake of white, refined grains found in some cereals, pizza, white breads, noodles, rolls, macaroni and tortillas. Look at the first ingredient on the nutrition label. If it is whole grain, brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, whole rolled oats or whole rye, you’re in luck! HEALTHY SNACKING Examples of healthy snacks to include in your lunch or keep at your desk at work include: mandarin oranges, apples, grapes, bananas, strawberries, carrots and hummus, dried fruit and nuts, seeds, celery and peanut butter, low-fat yogurt, whole-grain cereal or whole-grain crackers with peanut butter or tuna. Try to limit your consumption of sugary foods such as donuts, cookies, cake, candy and brownies. This doesn’t mean you can never touch a just-baked, half-melted chocolate chip cookie again! Satisfy the craving with a bite or two, then move on to something else. Waiting too long to eat can sometimes lead to cravings of foods high in sugar, sodium or fat. On the other hand, eating something healthy before eating the food you are craving can minimize or even eliminate the craving. Avoid mindless eating at your desk. When it is time to eat, take a short break from work to enjoy your meal or snack. One of the most important things to keep in mind while making changes that last is that emotions should not play a role in eating habits. Focus on the healthy foods and snacks you can add to your diet to improve your health, rather than focusing on foods to eliminate. Set attainable goals, meet those goals and make new ones. If you fall off the healthy eating wagon one day, don’t give up. Each new day brings a clean slate and a fresh opportunity to improve your health through nutrition. August 2015 • athomemms.com | 19
beauty
Liquid Halo HD Foundation Smashbox, $42
Maifanshi Moisture Foundation Koh Gen Do, $62
A Flawless Face achieve smooth, complete coverage with the right foundation Intensive Skin Serum Foundation SPF 40 Bobbi Brown, $62
Skin Weightless Powder Foundation Bobbi Brown, $48
20 || At At Home Home Memphis Memphis & & Mid Mid South South •• January August 2015 20 2015
Superpowder Double Face Makeup Clinique, $23
Nourish Cleanse Treat
Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Brightening Liquid Foundation Benefit, $36
Studio Skin Hydrating Foundation Smashbox, $42
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 21
at home with
Sherry May Co-Director, Live at the Garden Interview by Lesley Harris Colvett Photography by John Terry, Forest hill photography
At Home Memphis & Mid South chatted with Sherry May, the woman behind the fabulous Live at the Garden concerts held at the beautiful Memphis Botanic Garden.
At Home Memphis & Mid South: Where did you grow up? Sherry May: I grew up in Mississippi, but have lived in Memphis since the 80s. AHMMS: How long have you been with Memphis Botanic Garden, and with Live at the Garden? SM: I’ve been with Live at the Garden since day one, so 15 years now. AHMMS: What’s your favorite aspect about your job? SM: Absolutely everything! I love reconnecting each summer with people who have been going to Live for years. I love
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talking to someone who just went for their first time and hearing their perspective. I love the pride that comes from remembering where we started to where we are today. I’m the luckiest girl in the world to have been a part of this great adventure. AHMMS: Which Live at the Garden concert has been your favorite? SM: That’s like asking someone to name their favorite child! But a definite standout would be Seal, from the 2012 season. His show was just electrifying; he played way past his scheduled time. Then he met with a St. Jude child and her family backstage for almost an hour and was 100% there for
at home with
that girl. It was his kindness, compassion and real interest in her that moved us all to tears.
AHMMS: How do you believe Live at the Garden benefits Memphis?
AHMMS: Any special Live at the Garden memories?
SM: I feel we can’t have too many arts and cultural amenities in this city, and Live at the Garden is definitely one of those. Live, the Botanic Garden, the symphony, ballet, opera, Levitt Shell, zoo, Orpheum…all of these things and many, many more add to the quality of life for Memphians. We need all of these things to continue to have a vibrant city to attract tourists, businesses and young talent to Memphis.
SM: There are so many I can't count... Isaac Hayes at our very first concert in 2001, Ray Charles in 2002, watching Priscilla Presley just be a proud mom in the crowd when Lisa Marie opened up for Chris Isaak in 2003, Heart in 2009 (because they were personal favorites of mine growing up) and seeing the new permanent stage in action for the first time last year with Little Big Town. That was pretty awesome. AHMMS: Where is your favorite place to travel? SM: California, mainly Napa and Carmel, and anywhere in Italy. AHMMS: Hobbies?
AHMMS: What’s your favorite thing to do in Memphis? SM: Live at the Garden, of course! Seriously, so many things I love to do in Memphis. I think my favorite thing to do is trying new restaurants and hot spots with my husband and friends. I’ve been really bad in that area lately; I’ve got to step it up!
SM: I don't have time for any! But IF I had time, it would be more movies, tennis, yoga and traveling.
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 23
HOMEfeature
A DIAMOND I N T HE ROUG H TEXT BY JORDANA WHITE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE HANSEN | BEFORE PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIM TANNER
TIM TANNER AND KIP MEYER TAKE A HISTORIC MEMPHIS
24 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
home from "full of potential" to fully fabulous
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 25
F
or most people, downsizing ushers in an era of easy living—but not for Tim Tanner and Kip Meyer, designers and co-owners of TannerMeyer Drapery, Bedding and Blinds in Memphis.
After years spent owning a home in Harbor Town and a home and business in Nashville, the partners were ready to have all their belongings in one place. They sold their business and, even before processing that major change, quickly found renters for both residences. “We knew we had to find a house extremely quickly, and one that would be able to blend our Nashville and Memphis lives all into one,” says Tanner of the happy problem. And just as they faced this dilemma, a 105-year-old house in Memphis’ Evergreen Historic District became available. So, as Tanner tells it, instead of finding a move-in-ready home with all the bells and whistles, they “bit off a little more than they could chew,” and snatched up the place, despite the fact that it was in need of total renovation. “We always like a challenge and a project,” Meyer explains. “Tim is especially good at walking into any disaster and immediately seeing a vision and a finished product.” Nowhere could that skill be put to better use than in the couple’s new home: they had less than three months in the dead of winter to get the 3000-square-foot home up to snuff—and it hadn’t been touched since the 1960s!
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August 2015 • athomemms.com | 27
HOMEfeature
AFTER BEFORE
Even before attempting cosmetic updates, Tanner and Meyer needed to make sure that the home’s systems were ready for 21st-century living, meaning upgrades or replacements to the plumbing, roof and electrical systems. New sheetrock and can lighting had to be installed, surround sound was put in place, old radiators were removed and new central air installed. The oak floors were refinished downstairs and the rich looking heart pine on the top floor got a fresh look, as well. Outside everything was spruced up, painted and landscaped. Tanner even installed a walkway of antique bricks that he’d been collecting from all his previous home renovations. After all that? “We must have lost our minds,” laughs Tanner, “Because we decided to change layout and add 28 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
rooms.” First, the home’s fourth bedroom was incorporated into a new master suite, giving the space a luxury bath, laundry closet and walk-in closet. Then Tanner and Meyer turned the formal dining room into a family room, since its location right off the kitchen added better flow for their preferred entertaining style. The large living room was next. The two turned it into a dining room with enough space to accommodate their 112” custom dining table. The smaller living room was transformed into an "art lounge," since, as Tanner sees it, “Nobody uses their formal living rooms anymore. Why not go for a useful entertaining and artfilled space instead?”
Once the home’s flow had been addressed, the 60s-era kitchen was renovated and opened into the new family room; the existing mudroom gave way to a wet bar. Trying to stay true to the home’s period roots, Meyer says of the updates, “We like to think that the kitchen still looks like it belongs in an old house; it’s just brightened and functional for today’s needs.” With structural work complete, decorating the updated space became the next challenge. “Designwise, we had to figure out a way to incorporate the modern furniture and accessories from our place on the river with the traditional and eclectic items from Nashville,” says Meyer. “At the end of the day we ended up with a very transitional look and feel.”
BEFORE
AFTER August 2015 • athomemms.com | 29
HOMEfeature
AFTER
BEFORE
Living areas and hallways were painted a bright white for an open and airy feel that would showcase the pair’s art collection; the kitchen and family areas were painted in light shades of gray. Wallpaper was incorporated into two of the three bathrooms, since, according to Tanner, “today’s selection of wallpapers is amazing.” In addition to discovering the joys of wall finishes, the pair also realized the true advantages of owning their own designer window treatment business—“Our workroom has 42 seamstresses, so we were able to whip up an entire household of custom drapery, bedding, pillows and upholstery items in less than one month,” says Meyer.
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Of course, not everything went that smoothly. “There were some tough days during our wintertime renovation,” Tanner notes. “We faced a whole week of 10 degree temps with HVAC that was only half working.” But even with the weather, plus supply and work delays, everything came together, allowing Tanner and Meyer to meet their move-in deadline. “I felt like we were living right in the middle of one of those HGTV renovation shows,” Meyer laughs. “The only difference was that in reality it was more stressful and not as seamless as the TV shows make it seem.”
BEFORE
AFTER August 2015 • athomemms.com | 31
So how did they pull through? Tanner explains, “synergy and sheer nerves” let them sucessfully come out on the other side of things, allowing their dream home to become a reality
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August 2015 • athomemms.com | 33
design
THE Living ROOM
STYLE AND INSPIRATION FOR THE
TEXT BY LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE HANSEN
34 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
E
lements of today's living room would include well-appointed seating, a nice television, and a style to reflect the homeowner's taste.
The featured living room was designed by Sara Walden, Sara Walden Interiors in Memphis. According to Walden, the inspiration for this project was “Restoration Hardware.” “The clients had visited the store during an out-of-town trip, and they were ready to update their living room,” Walden recalls. Walden met with the homeowners and talked about the project. “Every client wants a beautiful, personal look that reflects their taste. I knew they had come to love the neutrals and grays that we all see in today's designs; however, that look can be quite flat and dull in real life without mixing in some texture, some sparkle and other details that will make a space look finished,” Walden says. To start the design process, the living room was painted a light gray with the right undertone. They selected a neutral, linen sectional plus a swivel chair that worked for both the space and the way they use the room. The look was completed with a custom shag rug.
EVERYDAY LIVING SPACE August 2015 • athomemms.com | 35
design
The draperies and custom accent pillows made of Mongolian sheep fur are a beautiful charcoal color.
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February August 2015 • athomemms.com | 37
design
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Next in the design process, the homeowner picked a color she liked, which was charcoal, and Walden repeated it throughout the room. According to Walden, you want to repeat the colors in a room to create a layer effect. “Having the project in mind, I started my High Point design market trip and set out to find the right pieces. I selected a mixture of contemporary art and custom-dyed Mongolian sheep pillows that would add texture. Touches of metallic and gold were sprinkled in through accessories, and just the right amount of sparkle was provided by the mirrored console,” Walden says. When asked what elements an ideal living room would include, Walden says it would be the television. "The TV is what sets the tone. It is what makes people gather around, and nowadays with the right console, the TV can fit seamlessly in the living room. The room can have a cleaner look. The TV doesn’t have to be hidden, it can be attractive." Walden’s advice to any homeowner looking to freshen up / update their living room is to first de-clutter. The next steps are to decorate with fresh plants and greenery rather than silk, and big furniture pieces should be neutral colors. “Your staples and investment pieces should be a pleasing neutral palette, then you can play around with pillows and accents,” says Walden. To create a curated look, a reclaimed boat wood mirror was selected for the entryway to bring in that touch of old world mixed in with the new pieces. Reclaimed wood side tables complete this look. Walden says that fresh plants and a pop of color give signs of life and make the living room approachable. The result is a space these homeowners love to live in everyday.
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 39
styleMARKETPLACE
'Palm Beach' Handpainted Canvas $295, Turkoyz Home in Memphis, TN 1840s Belgium Working Tower Clock $1,495, Restoration Hardware
Brass Twist Table $629, Ethan Allen
THE LIVING ROOM SPRUCE UP YOUR LIVING ROOM WITH THESE ACCESSORIES
Ottoman Call for Price, Kelly & Co. in Jackson, TN
Antelope Addax Pillow $319, First Fruit Collection in Collierville, TN 40 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
Flowers $269, First Fruit Collection in Collierville, TN
Professor's Upholstered Double Chair with Nailheads $1,395 - $1,950, Restoration Hardware
Owen Ringed Floor Lamp $899, Ethan Allen
Wood Pilar Candlestick & Candle $85.95, Southern Avenue in Germantown, TN
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 41
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technology
Fingerprint
Security
Access Now Available via Control4
TEXT By ScoTT FuElling, PrESidEnT, PhoEniX unEqualEd homE EnTErTainmEnT
N
ormally, I try not to get product specific in my articles. This month I must, however, thanks to an important innovation recently introduced for home use. when coupled with a home control system, Invixium fingerprint biometric products are truly revolutionary. Luxury living should include comfort, convenience, safety, security and control. With this cutting-edge technological advance, you can rest assured your family will have all of the above. Based on the user profile, the touch of a finger can activate lights, audio equipment and appliances. Installed at the entrance of a home, vacation home, private office or wine cellar, these devices provide security and convenience without the need for keys or PINs. Fingerprint recognition technology opens the door to a whole world of new possibilities for the smart home. And you can use up to all ten fingers to provide different functions for each individual user. Imagine that upon returning home a single swipe of your finger provides access to your property (first the gate, then the garage door and finally the front entrance). In addition, that
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one swipe illuminates the path to your study and starts your favorite radio station playing throughout the house. It also switches the news channel on in the lounge and makes sure the temperature in your bedroom is just the way you like it. Remember: all of this is from a single swipe of your finger – no need to navigate through complex touchscreen menus or dig around for your smartphone then wait while it connects to your WiFi. This is truly instant and totally personalized. Perhaps the housekeeper comes on Wednesdays and the gardener on Thursdays. No problem. Simply program them into the system, providing quick, easy, secure, personalized entry, which is also restricted so that they only have access to specific parts of the property and only during specific days and time ranges. Keep the kids away from the pool, keep prying eyes away from the home office, keep the guests away from the wine cellar – the possibilities really are endless. Any device that can be controlled can be interfaced into the fingerprint reader solution. Put your keys away and say goodbye to PINs and pass cards. With fingerprint biometrics, total access to your home or business is literally at your fingertips.
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home trends
NEW REGUL ATIONS WILL IMPACT REAL ESTATE CLOSINGS TEXT BY ROBIN TERRY, WEST TENNESSEE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
N
ew regulations for mortgage lending, set to take effect in early October, are “a fabulous thing” for consumers, according to Ludy Callaway, Vice President of the Mortgage Division of Independent Bank in Memphis. However, potential homebuyers should know that the new regulations bring new deadlines that, if not managed properly, could delay closings. The changes are required by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and are designed to make it easier for homebuyers to understand the details of their mortgage. Callaway says the new forms outline clearly what items in a mortgage consumers can “comparison shop” for, and which items they cannot. For example, a homebuyer can shop around for better rates on lender fees and attorney fees if they’d like, but can’t comparison shop on fixed costs like appraisal fees and credit report fees.
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“Lenders are excited for the consumers,” says Callaway, “because lending has become totally transparent.” The new Closing Disclosure Form replaces two previous loan forms: the good faith estimate form and the Truth in Lending Act form. With the new CFPB form come new requirements for protecting consumers’ private information, along with better explanations of the details of the loan and deadlines that allow potential buyers at least three days to review the documents. Closing attorney Mark Miesse, owner of Memphis Title Company, said the CFPB initiated the changes to make closing and loan documents more “user-friendly” for consumers, and to give homebuyers adequate time to review documents prior to closing. “The new catch phrase is ‘know before you close’”, Miesse explains, “because there shouldn’t be any surprises now at the closing table.”
Mortgage lenders, closing attorneys, builders and realtors have been preparing for the changes for more than a year, Miesse says. Callaway, Miesse and representatives from Chicago Title Company and Fidelity National Title Company have held several training sessions for builders and other members of West Tennessee Home Builders Association, along with Realtor members of the Memphis Area Association of Realtors to explain the CFPB requirements, and Miesse says more sessions will be scheduled as the implementation date approaches. Industry professionals should be well versed about the new regulations by early October, according to Miesse, and will have made the necessary changes within their businesses to comply with them. However, he cautions consumers to be aware that the period “from contract to closing” which used to run approximately 30 days, will now generally extend about 45 days. Callaway agrees, and urges potential homebuyers to expedite the process by getting prequalified for a mortgage loan before they go shopping for a new home. However, she stresses that the lender can’t complete the process until the homebuyer supplies all financial records requested. She and Miesse have some other advice for potential homebuyers: while the forms in some respect may be easier for consumers to read, it’s still best to use a Realtor who can provide guidance along the way toward purchasing a home. Miesse explains that the home buyer must have at least three days to review the Closing Disclosure Form, and if required deadlines are missed, it could jeopardize the scheduling for the closing. The new regulations will require much more collaboration between closing attorneys and mortgage lenders, he says, to be sure the closing process moves along smoothly. “Right now, it’s not unusual for there to be back-to-back closings,” Miesse says, “as homeowners sell their current home in order to buy another.” Once the new regulations go into effect, sellers and buyers just need to be on top of things in order for one change to not start a domino effect and potentially impact all related closings. “That’s why it’s so important for everyone, including the Realtors, lenders, attorneys and especially the homebuyers, to review the documents, be sure all the information is correct, and be aware of any deadlines,” Miesse comments. August 2015 • athomemms.com | 47
visit this
VISITING HISTORIC
ARLINGTON, TENNESSEE
V
TEXT BY HEATHER P. SPARKES | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF ARLINGTON
isiting Arlington’s historic Depot Square is like stepping back in time to a small town, but with all the modern amenities. Arlington grew up in the 1800s by the Memphis & Ohio rail line where the Withe Depot was constructed for shipping and transportation to and from the area. Not only were agricultural products shipped from the depot, predominantly cotton, but passenger trains also carried commuters from Arlington to Memphis for work and school. The engineer, flagman and conductor of one train in particular, affectionately named “The Accommodation,” knew the passengers so well that if anyone were late, the train would slow down and blow the whistle for them to hurry and hop on.
Today, Arlington is one of the fastest growing communities in Tennessee, but its small-town charm remains. Visitors can spend the day in Depot Square admiring the historic buildings, visiting the variety of small businesses, or attending one of the many community events the town offers. Arlington’s quaint stores hold something for everyone. The Paisley Rooster carries on-trend clothing and accessories, 48 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
Sassafras Design specializes in jewelry and home fashions, and the Country Garden has landscaping materials and tools. Children’s clothing, toys and accessories can be found in the adorable Happy Heart. Those looking to create their own masterpiece or family heirloom will find everything they need at the Quilting Barn, where shoppers can browse through wonderful materials, take classes or use the store’s work space to quilt the day away. Offering interior design services for both commercial and residential, Warehouse 67 has it all. You will find everything from unique furnishings and architectual salvage to custom drapery and natural linen bedding. Depot Square’s restaurants provide the perfect break from shopping. From gourmet hamburgers at Off the Hoof to salads, sandwiches and homemade desserts at The Grapevine to southern cooking and fried pies at Vinegar Jim’s to Italian food at Rizzi’s or dinner on the patio at Brendalay Grill, there’s a menu to please any palate. The square is the site of frequent community events throughout the year. The popular Music on the Square series, held the third Saturday of each month from May
through October, showcases various music genres including country, rock and bluegrass. The annual Arlington in April celebration takes place the last Saturday of April and features local artisans, businesses and delicious food. The Arlington Christmas Parade, Easter Egg Hunt and Harvest Festival are all held annually in Depot Square, as well. Several historic buildings have been preserved or replicated on the square, including the original 1800s train depot. Today, the replica building houses the Arlington Senior Citizens Center. The center hosts speakers, events and opportunities for senior citizens to be active and meet others. November August 2015 2014 • athomemms.com | 49
visit this
”time
...like stepping back in to a small town”
50 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
Other historic buildings are located throughout Depot Square. Visitors can tour the Rachel H.K. Burrow Museum and the Historic Blacksmith Shop, both operated by the Arlington Chapter of the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities (APTA). The museum is open periodically or by appointment and exhibits rotate showcasing artifacts and memorabilia from days gone by. The blacksmith shop was reconstructed in 2000 and houses an operational blacksmithing forge. The Historic Post Office and Harrell Log Cabin, also located in Depot Square, demonstrate a way of life from a bygone era.
visit this
Arlington’s pride in its historic district is evident. The town is a Tennessee Downtowns community, named by the state. The Tennessee Downtowns program is designed to assist communities in preserving and revitalizing their historic commercial areas. Depot Square was one of six communities to receive this designation last year, and the only community in West Tennessee selected in 2014. “Being a Tennessee Downtowns community has bolstered the interest in the historic area and provided tools to bring people to the heart of our community. Arlington’s roots are in Depot Square, and preserving that gem is important to our residents,” Mayor Mike Wissman says. While the town continues to celebrate its history, it also is looking forward. A master plan for future development and preservation in the area was recently adopted, and implementation of the plan has already begun. Construction of a 10-acre recreational park will be completed this fall, and Arlington residents will soon be able to grow produce and learn about agriculture at the Depot Square Community Garden. Visit the Historic Depot Square Arlington Facebook page for maps, a listing of events and information about businesses in the area. August 2015 • athomemms.com | 51
CHATTANOOGA A
scenic city with a young atmosphere TEXT BY CLAIRE PEELER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BLUFF VIEW ART DISTRICT, THE CHATTANOOGAN HOTEL, RUBY FALLS & JAMESTOWN
A
ugust is the time of the year when it seems the summer sun is at its strongest and the Southern heat will never subside. Kids go back to school and families anxiously await the first signs of autumn. Just a short drive from the Mid South awaits Chattanooga, TN, a historic city with a young vibe, inviting all those in need of a weekend escape to welcome the fall. No longer simply a place to “See Rock City,” Chattanooga is now a revitalized destination filled with a rich culture and new adventures for all to enjoy. The fourth largest city in Tennessee attracts visitors from across the Southeast and beyond with its transformed downtown, intriguing Bluff View Art District, stimulating outdoor activities and myriad dining choices. The Scenic City’s appeal has not gone unnoticed;
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readers of Outside Magazine recently voted Chattanooga as Best Town of 2015. THE GREAT OUTDOORS Chattanooga’s outdoor activities are the main draw for young visitors and families. Lookout Mountain is a popular spot for all because it offers over 30 miles of hiking trails while still allowing trekkers to view the long history of this local area. Gaze at the seemingly limitless landscape at Sunset Rock, or visit the site of the Civil War “Battle Above the Clouds” at Point Park. These are just a few adventures Lookout Mountain has to offer. If you’re looking to step off the beaten path, literally, rafting on the nearby Ocoee River is a world-class whitewater adventure with no previous experience required.
getaway
Bluff View Arts District
If you aren’t exactly the outdoorsy type but still want to explore the city this summer, Chattanooga has plenty to offer. Nightfall is a series of free outdoor music concerts held at Miller Plaza in the heart of downtown. Local and out-of-town bands take the stage at 7 p.m. every Friday until September 4. Grab a lawn chair and get ready for a night of tasty food, cold beer and free music. Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge is a popular destination for runners, dog walkers and casual strollers to cross the Tennessee River between downtown Chattanooga and the popular NorthShore area. Cool off with a custom-blended frozen treat from the Ice Cream Show then browse the North Shore’s diverse array of local shops. It’s also a great spot to enjoy the scenic view of the Tennessee River.
FAMILY FUN Creative Discovery Museum is one of the top children’s museums in the country, and is a perfect place to spend an afternoon with kids. The facility’s location downtown makes it an easy walk to the Tennessee Aquarium, an attraction you cannot miss while visiting the Scenic City. The aquarium provides a look underwater at both freshwater and sea habitats. Just east of downtown, the Bluff View Art District offers an escape that truly makes Chattanooga unique. This area has a completely different feel from the busy downtown area because of its quieter, more artistic surroundings. The district is home to several restaurants, Rembrandt’s Coffee House, an art gallery, and a quaint B&B called Bluff View
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getaway
The Chattanoogan Hotel
Warehouse Row - Photo courtesy of Jamestown
Inn. Tucked-away gardens and other hidden gems allow explorers to feel as if they’ve struck gold by finding their own personal paradise. Just seconds away from the art district lies the Hunter Art Museum, a longstanding Chattanooga fixture that has been transformed into a modern landmark. A perfect representation of the city’s recent progress, the museum’s collection and architecture blend the traditional and avantgarde seamlessly. Other activities to enjoy in Chattanooga include the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, which carries its passengers from the historic St. Elmo neighborhood to the top of Lookout Mountain, and Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall located 1,120 feet below the earth’s surface. Kids and adults alike will be in awe of this impressive natural landmark.
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The Chattanoogan Hotel
A GOOD NIGHT'S REST After a long day of adventure in the Scenic City, one of the best spots to rest your head is the Chattanoogan Hotel. Just minutes from downtown, the hotel offers an indoor pool, full-service spa and even an outdoor fire pit, among other amenities. If you’re looking for lodging in walking distance to the downtown energy, The Courtyard Chattanooga Downtown is the place to stay. Its location across the street from the Tennessee Aquarium and next door to High Point Climbing, an outdoor/indoor rock wall in the heart of downtown, makes this Marriott property perfect for families. DINING OUT Chattanooga is one of the best places to ditch the diet and enjoy delicious cuisine. Warehouse Row, a historical
Ruby Falls
building that has been transformed into a retail and restaurant center, holds many eateries, including Tupelo Honey. Although this is a chain restaurant, its unique building structure and Southernstyle food make it a must-eat locale in Chattanooga. Community Pie is not just another run-of-the-mill pizzeria. Located next to Miller Plaza in downtown Chattanooga, this eatery raises the bar thanks to unique blends of toppings and sauces that will forever change your perception of pie. Try the Drunken Pig pizza, and save room for dessert—Community Pie serves gelato from its sister restaurant Milk & Honey.
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 55
travel
TU R K S & C AIC O S
THE SANDS AT GRACE BAY – A JEWEL IN THE CARIBBEAN TEXT BY EMRY HAYES
Photo courtesy of Caicos Dream Tours 56 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
Photo courtesy of The Sands at Grace Bay
L
ocated 550 miles from the Miami shore, Turks and Caicos is the perfect place for a Caribbean vacation. Home to some of the best beaches in the world and breathtaking coral reefs, Turks and Caicos is an easy and efficient place to discover the Caribbean. Water sports are the main draw, but the archipelago of 40 islands is also a biodiversity hot spot. Visitors can encounter a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats and learn about the region’s ecosystems. Just a short drive from the airport in Providenciales, the most developed island, lies The Sands at Grace Bay, an oceanfront resort known for its laid-back atmosphere. Located on six acres of white sand beaches and made up of six three-story buildings surrounded by courtyards and freeform swimming pools, the 114-room resort offers kid-friendly dining and recreational activities that include swimming, water sports, scuba diving, tennis and golf. THINGS TO DO The crystal clear water makes Turks and Caicos the ideal place to observe marine wildlife and the beautiful coral reefs while snorkeling. The Sands offers an array of excursions to suit beginners to experienced snorkelers, guided snorkeling tours and a snorkel and conch cruise. One of Turks and Caicos’ more offbeat activities is a Glow Worm Tour. Glow worms are very rare and only found in the shallow waters off these islands, the Bahamas and Bermuda. Every month after the full moon
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 57
travel
”
THE
perfect PLACE FOR
A CARIBBEAN VACATION”
Photo courtesy of The Sands at Grace Bay
visitors can witness, from a glass-bottom power catamaran, the natural phenomenon of millions of glow worms emitting green flashes of light visible from the water’s surface. Kids will love seeing the mermaids swim while on the Undersea Explorer. The semi-submarine tours feature the real-life “Bella the Mermaid,” a free diver who swims underwater in a mermaid costume. Horseback riding on the beach is popular in Turks and Caicos. Provo Ponies is a small stable that offers guided rides Monday through Friday. Participants ride horses along quiet dirt roads and trails until they reach the four-mile stretch of secluded sand and surf of Long Bay Beach. This tour even allows experienced riders to canter when appropriate. A must-do for visitors is the Weekly Island Fish Fry every Thursday evening. Open to vacationers as well as locals, the fun and casual event features food vendors, entertainers, bands and cultural acts. Kids will enjoy watching the local children’s groups perform, meeting “Henry the Conch” and the folkloric storytelling. The weekly fish fry is a fun way for visitors to dive into the islands’ culture. Turks and Caicos is great for kids, but also for couples looking to have a romantic retreat. The adults-only Island Magic Champagne Sunset Cruise is an ideal way to spend some quality time together. Sail off the northeast tip of Providenciales on a 48-foot catamaran while enjoying the sunset and champagne. The most adventurous
Chinatown Photo courtesy of Caicos Dream Tours 58 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
couples will enjoy a Tandem Parasail Ride. From 500 feet above water the views of the ocean and Providenciales’ beautiful beaches are magnificent. places to visit Just a short boat ride from Providenciales, Iguana Island is a must see for visitors. Home of the endangered Turks and Caicos native Rock Iguana, a trip to this island, also known as Little Water Cay, provides an up-close-and personal view of these friendly reptiles in their natural habitat. The Turks and Caicos Natural Environment Centre is a fun, free and educational activity for families. With its colorful exhibits, the Centre is a great way for adults and children to
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travel
Photo courtesy of The Sands at Grace Bay
learn about the indigenous wildlife, and the various ecosystems that can be found in Turks and Caicos. Coral Gardens, known as Bright Reef, is one of the most popular snorkeling areas in Providenciales. Located down the beach from the Sands, Coral Gardens’ shallow and calm waters make it the perfect place for families and beginners to snorkel. Marine wildlife commonly seen along the 350-foot reef includes fish, sea turtles, stingrays and lobsters. In Middle Caicos, visitors can explore the caves and cliffs at the Blue Horizon Resort. The Conch Bar Caves, the largest non-submerged cave system in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos island chain, are full of stunning stalactites, stalagmites and columns. Conch Bar Caves is a Turks and Caicos national park. Only a short drive away, Indian Cave is a large single-gallery cave with many openings and skylights. The site is home to giant blue land crabs as well as papaya trees. PLACES TO WINE AND DINE Hemingway’s, located at The Sands, is a beachfront, open-air restaurant that offers casual yet elegant family-friendly dining. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Hemingway’s boasts a popular kids menu as well as fabulous island-inspired
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cuisine and cocktails. Breathtaking ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere make Hemingway’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of soaking up the sun. For an off-the-beaten-path lunch or dinner experience, Bugaloo’s is the place to be. A favorite among locals, Bugaloo’s offers a casual dining experience as well as music, dancing and a limbo contest. The menu features fresh-caught fish from the waters around the islands. Its beachfront location gives kids a chance to play and swim while the adults relax. Da Conch Shack is paradise for conch lovers. The restaurant can serve up conch any way imaginable. Customers will love getting to watch as the conch are unloaded, prepared, cooked and served to their table. Plus, they can pick
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 61
travel
Photo courtesy of The Sands at Grace Bay
Photo courtesy of Caicos Dream Tours
Photo courtesy of Caicos Dream Tours
up some of the best-looking conch shells in the world. Da Conch Shack offers a truly unique dining experience.
pastries and pies, Giggles’ menu includes frozen treats like ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, milkshakes, floats and sundaes.
For a sugar fix, look no further than Giggles Ice Cream and Candy Parlour. Located in downtown Grace Bay, just a short drive or bicycle ride from The Sands, Giggles has a wide array of sweets and desserts. In addition to its selection of candies,
With its crystal-clear water, beautiful beaches and fun recreational activities, Turks and Caicos is an excellent destination for adventurers, couples and families.
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social
2015 King John Bobango, 1940 Carnival Queen Lida Willey Black & Queen Lockie Dearman
CARNIVAL MEMPHIS 2015 PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEITH RENARD OF SKIPWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY
C
arnival Memphis, the party with a purpose for 84 years, has contributed over $2 million to local children's charities since 1999. The traditional Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball, featuring the elaborate presentation of the King and Queen of Carnival with the Royal Court and Grand Krewes, kicked off Carnival Week in Memphis. This year, John Bobango served as King of Carnival, Carnival Queen was Lockie Dearman, and President was Rob Johnston. Carnival Memphis raised $125,000, which will be doubled by matches.
Carnival President Rob Johnston & his wife Jean 64 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
social
Carnival King John Bobango & Queen Lockie Dearman with their Scarabs left to right: Tripp Dearman, Jackson Loeb, J. Morgan Harter & Gray Anderson
Left to right: Carnival Queen Lockie Dearman, Peer Power Executive Director Bill Sehnert, Madonna Learning Center Executive Director Jo Gilbert, RedZone Ministries Executive Director Howard Eddings, Ed Galfsky, Carnival King John Bobango & President Rob Johnston August 2015 • athomemms.com | 65
social
Jackie Sparks & Domino
Barney & Chris Nash
PAWS FOR A CAUSE
T
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK RAMIREZ
he Shops of Saddle Creek in Germantown recently celebrated all things dog! Paws for a Cause featured a massive pet adoption by area rescue agencies. Dog owners were able to bring their dogs as there were plenty of dog-friendly activities. There were games to play prizes to win, educational displays and demonstrations. There was also a Celebrity Pet Wash, as local media celebrities bathed the dogs. The
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spa services are available for a $10 donation, with all the proceeds to be split among our participating rescue organizations. There was also an artists’ market featuring works of pet portrait artists and photographers, handmade craft items for dogs, and treats and bowls of water available for the furry friends. Saddle Creek's day of puppy pandemonium was sponsored by Memphis Veterinary Specialists.
social
Richard Ramsom & Valerie Calhoun
Brekka & Maxine
Nina Wingfield, Russell, Mary Bayle Thomason & Rebecca Rubnitz August 2015 • athomemms.com | 67
social
Peggy & Dr. LaVerne Lovell
LE BONHEUR CHILDREN'S
HOSPITAL BALL
L
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA BUSER
e Bonheur Children's Hospital Ball, presented by Le Bonheur Club, was held June 20, 2015 at The Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, bidding at a fabulous silent and live auctions, and dancing to the wonderful music of SoulSations. The emcee of the evening was Joe Birch. A generous amount was donated to Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. Ball Chairmen were Lauren Barnett and Sally Perry, and Honorary Ball Chairmen were Nancy and Hamp Holcomb. Le Bonheur Club President is Peggy Lovell.
Sally Perry & Lauren Lauren Barnett, NancyBarnett & Hamp Holcomb & Sally Perry 68 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 69
entertaining arts
Belinda Carlisle
Danú
Branford Marsalis
CELEBRATING THE ARTS AT GPAC TEXT BY PAUL CHANDLER, GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PHOTOS COURTESY OF GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
G
ermantown Performing Arts Center has filled its 2015-16 season with an engaging roster of favorite acts, new faces and genre-busting performances, drawn from the worlds of pop music and jazz, modern dance and ballet, classical music and international sounds and, as always, the refreshingly indefinable. This successor to a triumphant 20th anniversary season builds on the energy that fills the 868-seat DuncanWilliams Performance Hall with excitement and artistic experiences both entertaining and profound. Returning to GPAC this season are the popular revolutionary contemporary movement group Pilobolus and world-renowned violinist Midori, who will perform with the center’s resident symphony orchestra IRIS, conducted by Michael Stern. Season subscribers and single-ticket purchasers can look forward to GPAC’s usual array of talented groups from the U.S. and the world as well as individual performers in a wide range of musical and movement presentations. The season will launch on September 3 with the American Music Series featuring Belinda Carlisle, lead singer of the well-known all-girl group the Go-Go’s. Carlisle’s phenomenal career outside the Go-Go’s has produced such number one hits as “Mad about You” and “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.” The series includes appearances by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the contemporary swing revival band from Southern California, and country singer-songwriter Larry Gatlin with rock and boogie piano whiz Jason D. Williams. 70 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
The Jazz Series begins on November 14 with crossover jazz-pop saxophonist Dave Sanborn, winner of six Grammy Awards in a career that spans three and a half decades. Other performers in this series include Dianne Reeves, honored with five Grammies for Best Jazz Vocal Performance; pianist Marcus Roberts; and the Branford Marsalis Quartet. In addition to Pilobolus, the Dance/Movement Series includes performances by AiRealistic: Breaking Surface, the stunning athletic, climbing and flying water show featured on NBC's I Can Do That!; Philadelphia's dynamic Koresh Dance Company; and Houston Ballet II from the Houston Ballet Academy. The 25 heavenly crystalline voices of the Vienna Boys Choir launch the International Series on October 24, followed, through the season, by Stewart Copeland, former drummer with The Police, paired with pianist Jon Kimura Parker; the Celtic vocal group Danú performing on traditional instruments; and eclectic “new flamenco” guitarist Jesse Cook. Season subscriptions and single-ticket sales for GPAC’s 2015-2016 roster of entertainment, diversion and delight are available online at www.gpacweb.com, where visitors may see the complete schedule of performances and dates. For additional ticket information, personal assistance and questions, please contact the GPAC Box Office at 901.751.7500. GPAC is located at 1801 Exeter Road in Germantown.
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 71
experience this
The B.B. King Museum
“THE KING OF THE BLUES” LIVES ON TEXT BY CLAIRE PEELER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF B.B. KING MUSEUM AND DELTA INTERPRETIVE CENTER
72 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
T
he blues is part of life and culture for those who call Memphis home. We are familiar with legendary artists such as Willie Nix and Howlin’ Wolf who found their unique sound on the very streets we walk. But by far the most iconic blues artist of them all was Riley B. “B.B.” King. With 15 Grammy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, King truly lived up to his nickname, “The King of the Blues.” The late musician died in Las Vegas on May 14 at the age of 89, but his music lives on in the streets of Memphis. Tennessee might take credit for King’s career, but the Mississippi Delta is where he was born and raised and where his musical roots lie. This makes Mississippi the perfect place for a shrine to the well-loved musician. Indianola, where young Riley began playing the blues on street corners, is the site of the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. The non-profit museum, which incorporates the cotton gin where King once worked, opened its doors in September 2008 on US Highway 82 between Greenwood and Greenville. According to the facility’s website, it “honors its namesake as an internationally renowned and influential musician, celebrates Delta blues music heritage and the local culture, encourages and inspires young artists and musicians, and enriches the lives of Delta youth and all who visit the museum campus.”
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 73
experience this entertaining
Just a short drive from Memphis, the museum offers an interactive educational experience for all age groups. Exhibits featuring art, videos, artifacts and, of course, music chronicle King’s fascinating life and the history of the surrounding area. The tour begins with a brief film introducing the “The King of the Blues.” Exiting the theatre guests enter the first gallery, where displays outline the social history of the early 20th century and recall King’s early life on the farm as a sharecropper and tractor driver.
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The Memphis, 1950s Gallery depicts how King made his way to the Bluff City and became known as “Beale Street Boy” (later shortened to B.B.). In the museum’s Guitar Studio visitors can play instruments and make their own blues in an interactive environment. After a day at the museum a late lunch or dinner is in order. Indianola’s location on the banks of the Mississippi gives it a Louisiana feel. Housed in a restored theatre, restaurant Nola embraces that vibe with a menu featuring bayou-style cuisine.
Crown Restaurant is a great place to grab lunch and a few souvenirs on your way out of town. Located in downtown Indianola close to the museum, visitors can enjoy delicious seafood and a dessert after a day of exploring. For further information to help plan a trip to the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center please visit www. bbkingmuseum.org.
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 75
entertaining
Noah's ark cake by Darla Powell
Double the Fun!
Noah’s Ark themed baby shower for twin boys TexT by LesLey Harris CoLveTT
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entertaining
The InspIraTIon The mom-to-be was expecting twin boys, hence the adorable “two-by-two” Noah’s Ark theme—the animals went two-by-two on the ark and then there was a “shower.” Decor The color theme was kept simple—white, natural tones and blue. The buffet table was covered in a simple white cloth with a blue burlap runner. The centerpiece consisted of two arks, one for each boy, made from diapers and burp cloths. Beanie Baby stuffed animals were placed around the tables in sets of two. Guests dined and mingled at tables covered in white with natural burlap risers. Each table featured a clear container with blue marbles and two goldfish swimming around inside. Blue and white hydrangeas in Mason jars and other antique glassware were scattered around each table. Napkins were wrapped in white cloths, tied in natural rope and sealed with an animal figure.
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Beautiful flower arrangements by Millstone Market & Nursery
Menu Appetizers included a variety of chips and dips and a fourlayer cheese torte. The hostess chose to serve appetizers that did not need to be heated up since the shower took place on a warm summer evening. • Gus's fried chicken with ranch dressing, honey mustard dressing and Mississippi Comeback Sauce • Pasta salad, featuring adorable animal-shaped pasta • Potato salad • Mini Caesar salads • Fruit salad • Noah’s Ark cake by Darla Powell Beverages: • Blueberry lemonade • Sangria
August 2015 • athomemms.com | 79
entertaining
MISSISSIPPI COMEBACK SAUCE INGREDIENTS:
• ¼ cup of olive oil • ¼ cup of chili sauce • ¼ cup of ketchup • 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce • 1 tsp of spicy mustard • 1 cup mayonnaise • ¼ tsp of freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste • couple dashes of hot sauce • ½ tsp of onion powder • ½ tsp of garlic powder • juice of ½ of a lemon • ¼ tsp of cajun seasoning DIRECTIONS:
1. Place all of the ingredients in a blender and process until well mixed. 2. Taste and adjust for seasoning. 3. Store in fridge for about a week and serve over just about anything!
PASTA SALAD PASTA INGREDIENTS:
• 1 12-ounce package of your choice of pasta • One bunch of green onions, thinly chopped • 2 cucumbers seeded and diced • 2 cups of grape tomatoes sliced in half • Dressing DRESSING INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup mayo • 1 cup olive oil • 2 tbsp Greek seasoning DIRECTIONS:
1. While the pasta is boiling, prepare the vegetables and pour about ¼ of the dressing over them. 2. Drain the pasta and while still warm put on top of the vegetables and pour the remaining dressing over and mix well. 3. Cool before placing in the fridge and best if made a day ahead. NOTE: For the shower, animal shaped pasta was special ordered online and mixed with tri color rotini.
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FOUR-LAYER CHEESE TORTE INGREDIENTS:
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese • 1 cup chopped pecans • 2 tsp minced garlic • ½ cup mayo • 16 oz cream cheese • 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained well) • 1 tsp cajun seasoning • 3 tbsp Major Gray’s chutney • 1 tsp curry powder • hot sauce to taste DIRECTIONS:
1. Combine cheddar cheese, pecans, garlic, mayo and hot sauce to taste in large mixing bowl. 2. Press half of the cheddar mixture into the pan, saving the other half for final layer. 3. Mix 8 oz. cream cheese, spinach and Cajun seasoning in food processor and spread over the cheddar layer. 4. Mix the other 8 oz. cream cheese with Major Gray’s chutney and Curry powder. Spread over spinach mixture. 5. Spread the remaining cheddar mixture on top. Freezes great if made a least a day ahead.
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in the kitchen
OUT WITH
THE OLD,
IN WITH
THE NEW TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL MCKINNEY
W
e’ve all been there before at some point. You’re planning to make a certain dish, thinking you have everything you need, until you start cooking and realize you forgot an ingredient or two! Isn't that the worst? Before I had a baby, I would simply run back to the store and grab what I needed, however, as any mom of babies or young children knows, a “quick trip” back to the store is nearly impossible and usually not worth the hassle. So I have learned to improvise when I find myself in these scenarios. Sometimes I actually end up liking the new version of the dish I create more than the original. So many of my recipes come from improvising or changing out a few ingredients in a classic recipe to give it a fun twist.
The other day I had planned to pack some sandwiches for an afternoon at the pool and, of course, I was out of bread! I did have some tortillas, though. Pinwheels, anyone? I used typical turkey sandwich ingredients to make these cute roll-ups. They took only a few minutes to assemble and I ended up loving the change from the usual turkey sandwich. These would be a big hit with the kiddos as well, since they look unique and are fun to eat. The other recipe I changed up recently was the classic Seven Layer Bars, also known as Hello Dolly Bars. I could have sworn that I had a box of graham crackers but, of course I didn’t. I did happen to have a bag of pretzel twists, so I decided to use those for the crust to give the recipe a sweet and salty flavor, which I adore in any dessert. I ended up being short a few more ingredients, so I improvised and what resulted was a huge hit at a Fourth of July gathering with friends. Everyone kept asking what was in the bars and how to make them. Little did they know that the bars were made from a hodgepodge of ingredients in my pantry! For more fun recipes, check out my website at www. AprilMcKinney.com or my new cookbook wherever books are sold, The Outdoor Table. 82 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
SWEET AND SALTY LAYER BARS MAKES ABOUT 24 BARS
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups pretzels • 2 tbsp. sugar • ½ cup butter, melted • 1 cup chocolate chips • 1 cup marshmallows • ¾ cup sliced almonds • 1 can sweetened condensed milk • 1 cup sweetened coconut DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 350˚. 2. Use a food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin to crush the pretzels as finely as possible. 3. Add the sugar and butter to the pretzels, and press the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan. 4. Evenly top the crust with the chocolate chips, marshmallows and almonds. Pour the condensed milk over this and top with the coconut. 5. Bake the bars for 20-25 minutes and allow them to cool before cutting into squares.
HUMMUS, TURKEY & CHEDDAR PINWHEELS MAKES 10 PINWHEELS
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 large tortillas • 4 tbsp. hummus • 1 cup loosely packed mixed greens • 6 slices turkey • 4 slices cheddar cheese DIRECTIONS:
1. Spread two tbsp. of hummus on each tortilla. Top with the mixed greens. 2. Cover the greens with the turkey and cheddar slices. 3. Tightly roll up the tortillas. Using a sharp knife, cut the ends off, and then cut each tortilla roll-up into five pinwheels. Secure them with toothpicks if needed.
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dining out
The Skybox Grill & bar TexT by emry Hayes | PHoTograPHy by KaTHarine Terry
T
he Skybox Grill & Bar, one of Collierville’s newest restaurants, offers a family-friendly dining experience. Its athletic-themed décor, numerous TVs and fully-stocked bar might say “typical sports bar,” but the food says otherwise. With fresh items prepared daily, such as handpatted hamburgers and macaroni and cheese egg rolls, The Skybox gives diners the best seat in the house to watch the big game or just to spend time with family and friends. The restaurant’s roots reach back to owners John and Joanie Cunningham’s college days. While a student, John worked at a pizza place and Joanie began cooking and
84 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015
developing unique recipes. Over time, she became a caterer while John worked in sales and management. Years and countless discussions later, the Cunninghams decided to take the plunge and open a restaurant. With the help of Patrick Peavy and executive chef Travis Tungseth, the Cunninghams’ dream became a reality in February. The menu brims with traditional American dishes and features many of Joanie’s creations, including garden-fresh salads, sandwiches, burgers, chicken wings and specialty plates. In addition, a house special is offered every night. The popular macaroni and cheese egg rolls keep customers coming back time and again. A crazy idea conceived by
dining out
Peavy, these egg rolls are stuffed with cavatappi pasta and Swiss, cheddar, Parmesan, American and cream cheese. They come with homemade barbeque and sriracha sauce. The shrimp and grits, Mahi Mahi tacos and spinach queso are delightfully different takes on typical sports bar food. The Skybox’s tasty dessert line-up features the fan favorite fried Moon Pie topped with salted caramel ice cream. The full bar has 12 beers on tap, a wide selection of locally crafted brews and a variety of wines and liquors to accommodate any taste.
service and 17 TVs that showcase the Grizzlies and the Tigers combine to create The Skybox’s fun and relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect place for customers to sit and cheer on their favorite team. The Skybox Grill & Bar is located at 2140 West Poplar Ave., Suite 101, in Collierville. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. On Friday and Saturday nights, the kitchen is open until 11 p.m.
Customer service is top priority for the friendly wait staff, or as John prefers to call them, “the sales force.” Great August 2015 • athomemms.com | 85
happy hour
THYME FOR THE BLUES RECIPE COURTESY OF AMERIGO ITALIAN RESTAURANT
INGREDIENTS: • 8-10 blueberries • 1-2 sprigs of thyme, depending on size • 2 ½ oz. of Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka • Splash of house-made (or quality) sour mix • Splash of sparkling wine
DIRECTIONS: 1. Muddle the blueberries and thyme together in a martini shaker. 2. Add the vodka and sour mix. 3. Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass. 4. Splash with sparkling wine on top.
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Covington
marketplaCe
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MARKETPLACE
sources 18 | Wellness Special thanks to – Aimee Christian, MD and Janet Dellinger, MD
19 | HealtHy you Special thanks to – Kristi Edwards, MS, RDN, LDN, CLC
22 | at HoMe WItH Special thanks to – Sherry May
24 | HoMe Special thanks to – Tim Tanner and Kip Meyer, tannermeyer.net
34 | DesIGn Sara Walden, sarawaldeninteriors.com
46 | HoMe tRenDs Special thanks to – Robin Terry, West Tennessee Home Builders Association
56 | tRavel Special thanks to – The Sands at Grace Bay, thesandstc.com
72 | eXPeRIence tHIs B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center, bbkingmuseum.org
76 | enteRtaInInG Special thanks to – Darla Powell, Sparkle Cakes, and Millstone Market & Nursery, millstonenursery.com
84 | DInInG out Special thanks to – The Skybox Grill and Bar, theskyboxgrilltn.com
86 | HaPPy HouR Special thanks to – Amerigo Italian Restaurant, amerigo.net
90 | on a GooD note wingscancerfoundation.org/polo
correcTIoNs July 2015 64 - 65 | socIal PaGes Photography by John Terry, Forest Hill Photography
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on a good note
Polo ClassiC helPs sPread
Wings’ CanCer serviCes ThroughouT The Mid souTh
W
TexT & PhoTos by Tealy Devereaux
ings Cancer Foundation provides hope, education, research and support free of charge to anyone touched by cancer, no matter where they receive treatment. Funding through grants, individual gifts and corporate donations helps achieve the Wings’ mission. Founded in 1996 by breast cancer survivor Sandy Patterson and Brenda Wiseman, Wings has experienced tremendous growth thanks to donors, supporters and volunteers. Through the repeated process of healing, loss and celebration, Wings has spread its wings, casting an impressive presence in the MidSouth community serving West Tennessee, North Mississippi and Eastern Arkansas. Wings reaches over 400,000 patients and families each year with its programs and services. These initiatives help people with cancer and their loved ones understand the disease, manage their lives through treatment and recovery, and find the emotional support they need. One of Wings’ key programs is providing post-mastectomy care items such as breast prostheses and mastectomy bras. Nutrition counseling is available with the help of a registered dietitian as part of the Wings Wellness Program, which also offers exercise and yoga, as well as spiritual and emotional support.
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On Sunday, September 13 the foundation will host the Wings Polo Classic. White tents and spirited competition will set the scene at the “Pretty Woman” party at the Memphis Polo Club in Rossville, Tennessee. Guests at the fundraiser, scheduled for noon until 6 p.m., will be treated to food, drinks and a live auction while watching a fast-paced polo match. Attendees have the option to dress up or down. Those who would rather show up with a tailgate chair than wearing classic attire will feel at home in the more relaxed section of the field. More than 500 people turned out for last year’s inaugural Wings Polo Classic, proving there’s an audience in the Mid South for polo. Often referred to as “the Sport of Kings,” polo is one of the oldest team games in the world with a 2,000-year history. Though it doesn’t date back quite as far in the Mid South, polo does have a long-standing history in Memphis, having been played at the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club since 1954. The club later moved to Lee Taylor’s Wildwood Farm in Germantown and it was during this era that the Memphis Polo Club hosted the U.S. Open of Polo. The club moved to its current 200-acre location at Rossville Farm in 2003. For information on the Wings Polo Classic, to buy tickets or to donate, please visit wingscancerfoundation.org/polo or call 901.322.2984.
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92 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • August 2015