May 2024

26 | HOME FEATURE

Warehouse 67 Design and John Duke Homes were focused on the goal from day one to create a masterpiece for the 2024 Vesta Home Show.

40 | DESIGN

The Zanone family enlists Ashley Givens of A & E Interiors and Furnishings to masterfully transform their kitchen.

you

WEDDING Mr. & Mrs. Hardaway 48 EXPERIENCE THIS It’s Never Too Late to Discover the Joy of Cycling with Pedego Electric Bikes

MAY 2024 • VOL. 23 NO. 2

PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR

AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GINNI JONES | gjones@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

GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com

CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

BUSINESS

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION

HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US

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Call 901.684.4155 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 , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 . 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 , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

Imust

be fully transparent here and admit that it is May and my Christmas deer just finalized their journey from our front yard to the attic. They had a rather long layover in our guest room but they finally made it home. I wanted them to know the journey the wise men went through. In only six short months, they will be grabbed up and back out front again.

I did think of just leaving them and letting them become the deer of the season, so to speak, but the thought of coming up with something to embellish them with for each holiday was more exhausting than just having a small hissy fit moment so my husband would put them away.

Unlike my home, where the Christmas deer have well overstayed their welcome, this issue is full of fresh, inspiring ideas to make your home a winner when it comes to the most up-to-date designs. The pollen is making its way out so now is a perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. With the Pedego bikes, it has never been easier to hop on some of the most fantastic trails the Mid South has to offer. You can pedal away and work those legs or sit back and cruise, my style, while enjoying so many great things to see in our area. If you are planning a Mother’s Day lunch or a celebration for the graduate, the mandarin chicken salad is a crowd pleaser and it stays yummy for several days, as I am on day four now!

So, whether you’re planning travel, food, a healthier you or home decor, I hope this May issue inspires you and gives you ideas that bring you joy. If that happens to be deer in your front yard sporting a graduation cap or May Day crown, you do you. I wish you all the joy May brings.

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

Envisioned

Builder and designer focused on the goal from day one to create a masterpiece for the Vesta Home Show

DESIGN BY WAREHOUSE 67 | STORY BY TERRI GLAZER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY

"Thereare certain projects that end up being your favorites,” says designer Kim Loudenbeck, referring to the home she and builder John Duke created for the recent Vesta Home Show.

“I think the reason that this one is so near and dear to my heart is because it does check a lot of the boxes.” Loudenbeck admits that the home’s mid-range size appealed to her, particularly its efficient layout. “This house has every element you need, and nothing you don’t,” she says. “Whether you have a family, whether you’re an empty nester, this house will accommodate your needs, and I think thatis something that is very rare.”

She credits the home’s appeal to the fact that builder and designer were able to collaborate from the very beginning. “From day one, we met and had meetings where we talked about what we wanted the floor plan to be. When you have a vision for a house from the inside out—how people are going to live in the space, how they’re going to use the rooms—and narrow that process down, what you get is a home with great bones like this one.”

Duke had had the basic house plan for a while, says Loudenbeck, but hadn’t built it. Inspired by the similarly laid out St. Jude Dream Home she decorated last year, she encouraged him to bring the blueprint to life for Vesta. Both the St. Jude house and this one have the porch on the side versus in the back, a feature the designer has come to really appreciate.

Says

Loudenbeck, “Typically, you have to look through the porch to get your view or the light is limited in your living space because the porch covers a lot of the natural light. By having it off to the side, it brings beautiful light into the main living space. This floorplan also has porch access from both the dining and living rooms. All of this together creates a really good sense of space.”

The same level of planning went into each area of the home. The entryway’s somewhat narrow footprint could have presented a challenge designwise, however Loudenbeck’s involvement with the project from the start allowed her to address that and ultimately create an elegant and inviting foyer. She suggested a recessed niche be drawn into the plans to accommodate a piece of furniture that wouldn’t interfere with traffic flow, and also added hard-wired picture lights to accent artwork she had in mind for the space.

The entryway leads to the open kitchen/living room, where the feel is classic, but with a fresh feel. “Our end goal and vision for this project was to keep traditional styling but executed in a modern way so that it will still feel comfortable and inviting. The elements aren’t overly done; it’s simplified enough that you feel a sense of peace in the space,” Loudenbeck says.

A limited paint palette kept the home’s look clean and simple. Loudenbeck and her team from Warehouse 67 selected only a few colors, but used them in different ways. One of those hues, a warm greige, appears on the kitchen cabinets and trim. Set off by a stunning backsplash of herringbone marble with a touch of mother or pearl for shimmer, the color is the perfect neutral. The large island and perimeter cabinets are topped with quartzite countertops, and the designer is a fan. “I think a lot of times people feel like engineered countertops don’t necessarily look as beautiful as a natural material. That was the challenge here. Challenge accepted. I knew we could find something that would. The pattern in this selection has a lot of movement and variety. It definitely emulates natural stone, but you get the functionality of it being quartzite.”

Moving from the kitchen to the living room, the ceiling height rises from nine to 12 feet, an ingenious use of architecture to amplify the room’s open quality. The showstopper is the limestone and pecky cypress fireplace. Loudenbeck is quick to credit her collaborator, millwork carpenter Daniel Sparks, for his talent and passion in creating the masterpiece. The warm, dramatic grain of the cypress plays perfectly off the cool limestone of the Christie Cut Stone mantel. Keeping simple elegance in mind, the designer opted against built-in bookshelves, instead flanking the fireplace with twin consoles under coordinating pieces of art.

"Fromday one, I knew we had to make the dining room a focal point,” says Loudenbeck. “Because it is tucked away, if we didn’t do something a little bit bolder, it might just fall by the wayside.” That bold treatment came in the form of moody, mural wallpaper and unique light fixtures. The room has more than just good looks, however. Functionality is the name of the game here. The area is versatile enough to be used as a more formal dining room or a casual spot for breakfast. And, because it can be closed off by rolling doors, it could easily serve as a home office if the eventual owners desire.

The covered porch is Loudenbeck’s idea of perfection. “Not too big, not too small. Just enough for you to enjoy a great evening,” she says. Impact comes courtesy of the vaulted ceiling and natural stone floor, paired with outdoor furniture and a rug elegant enough for any room but tough enough to handle the elements al fresco.

It may be the smallest room in the house, but the powder room makes a substantial statement. Bold, picturesque wallpaper and saturated blue paint combine with marble mosaic flooring to create a design gem. A stained wood vanity with handsome reeded detailing brings a natural element into the picture.

Set away from the home’s public areas, the downstairs primary bedroom is created for comfort, again, with a contemporary take on traditional. Duke’s plan spruced up the tray ceiling with wood beams stained and paint washed to mirror the tones of the hardwood flooring. Loudenbeck’s decor mostly follows the home’s neutral palette, with a pop of rich color on the nightstands.

“Who wouldn’t want to have a bathroom like this?” asks the designer, entering the primary bath. “I didn’t want this house to give up any of the elements that make a larger home appealing. I love the oversized tiles that are trending right now. Here we chose twoby-four-foot floor tiles and I think that adds so much drama. Typically you only see those in commercial spaces. Bringing them into the home gives you less grout and larger scale of pattern.”

Conveniently placed between the friends entrance and the primary suite, the laundry room provides cabinets, countertop workspace and a second refrigerator, as well as a dedicated “landing spot” for homeowners to leave keys or a purse. A locker area decked out in custom millwork, a nook perfect for a desk, and a walk-in pantry are further proof that the floor plan was envisioned with careful consideration of how its future owners would live in the home.

"Justbecause it’s the second floor doesn’t mean it was second in design,” says Loudenbeck. “Everything that we spent time and energy on down below, we did the same for upstairs.” That fact is evident starting with the staircase leading to the home’s upper level. “This is another area where we worked with the millwork carpenter. I envisioned beautiful paneling for a classic look to elevate a functional space.”

At the top of the stairway sits an unexpected library nook, created from what would otherwise have been unused space. With stately built-ins and leather barrel chairs, the alcove is a cozy spot for reading and relaxing.

Its masculine air is the perfect introduction to the room into which it leads. Loudenbeck describes the space over garages as “an opportunity a lot of people pass up because they don’t know what to do with it.” Clearly, the designer made the most of this chance to create an attractive and useful area with a family in mind. “We knew right away if they had kids or grandkids, the builtin bunks would be a great addition to the space.”

Bathed in Sherwin-Williams Illusive Green from the ceiling down and accented with traditional wainscoting and other decorative millwork, the spot is elevated far beyond the often-dismissed upstairs playroom.

Two roomy and cheerful upstairs bedrooms, along with one on the first floor, provide room for family members or occasional guests. Each has a generously sized closet and two of the three have attached bathrooms.

The home’s unified, cohesive design is a product of the fact that the builder, the subcontractors, the designer and her team worked with a singular goal throughout the process, says Loudenbeck. “You have to start with a vision of where you’re going from the time you’re looking at the floorplans, and just continue to check back and have that same goal with every decision you make along the way. It’s definitely a process and it takes time, but the end result is absolutely beautiful.”

Ashley & Austin HARDAWAY

JULY 22, 2023 | MEMPHIS, TN

PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: CINDY AND WES BANKS

PARENTS OF THE GROOM: KIM AND JOE HARDAWAY

REHEARSAL DINNER: OLD DOMINICK DISTILLERY

WEDDING: FIRST EVANGELICAL CHURCH

RECEPTION: THE PINK PALACE MUSEUM

WEDDING COORDINATOR: CINDY SHRIVER

FLORIST: KEVIN GRIFFIN DESIGNS

PHOTOGRAPHER: ROB+DEANNA

CAKE: CAKES FOR ALL OCCASIONS

CATERING: CINDY KRAG CATERING

BAND: G3 (RESOURCE ENTERTAINMENT)

WEDDING DRESS: THE BAREFOOT BRIDE

RENTALS: ELEGANT CHAIR SOLUTIONS MAKEUP: COZY HAWKINSON

PHOTOBOOTH: HOTSHOTS GLAM BOOTH

GETAWAY CAR: MEMPHIS WEDDING CAR DAY OF PET SERVICE: WAGNOLIA BELLS

EXPERT DETAILS

Thekitchen in this East Memphis home is proof that an expert’s touch can take a project from good to great. Camille and Paul Zanone have been in the business of home building for 20 years, but when it was time to remodel their kitchen they called on a specialist to make sure every detail was covered.

The Zanones had worked with Ashley Givens, AKBD, owner of A & E Interiors and Furnishings, before, so they knew her background in kitchen and bath design and interior architecture qualified her well to help with the project.

The transformation started with reconfiguring the space, taking in the large closet where the previous owners had stored their Christmas tree to create a new pantry. The Givens/Zanone team devised a clever hidden door faced with faux cabinet panels and hardware to access the new pantry while maintaining visual uniformity. The space holds often-used small appliances as well as the microwave. “We like to get the microwave hidden back into a pantry or scullery area in all our projects,” says Paul.

Givens is a fan of that concept, too. “Kitchen designers are trained that countertop height is a comfortable and accessible placement for microwave access,” she explains, “so getting it built in the pantry at that natural hand placement is perfect.”

The original island was narrow and long; so long that it protruded into the traffic area between the kitchen and breakfast room. The new version remedies that problem while also providing beauty and practicality. With storage on both sides, the island is covered in Calcutta Gold Terra honed marble in a waterfall treatment. Although it’s wider than before, Givens’s attention to detail resulted in a perfect fit. “I did a full measure of the space and created a new floor plan and 3D renderings of the layout to bring the vision Paul and Camille had to life,” she says.

Those layouts not only ensured proper clearances were maintained, they took into consideration details including the owners’ request for double dishwashers. Paul says their family of five has enjoyed the convenience of dual dishwashers since he installed them in their first home. “It’s become something we’ve done on every single house,” he adds.

New white, shaker-style cabinets provide plenty of storage, extending to the 11-foot ceiling. Glassfront units on the ends were a must-have for both the homeowner and the designer. Says Camille, “If I don’t have windows in the kitchen I feel like adding the glass aspect in the cabinetry really makes a big difference. It just makes it feel more open.”

“It bounces the light around the room and it gives you the feeling of a window,” concurs Givens.

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY

For the base cabinets Givens opted for stacks of deep drawers. They provide a beautiful, clean aesthetic with a secret bonus. “We wanted to make sure that we have hidden drawers inside of those, so you have a place for your silverware, all the nuances,” she says. The specialized inserts and drawers within drawers offer perfect options for storing cutlery, utensils, linens, spices and more.

Honed soapstone countertops cover the perimeter cabinets. Camille chose to continue the slab on the backsplash, adding graceful curved details. The natural stone’s dark hues provide contrast to the fresh white, creating a timeless look. “You should never have to remodel this space,” says Paul. “When we’re building houses, we make them to where they last forever. We try our best to make the locations that are expensive to redo, the kitchen and the primary bathroom, timeless. They’re there for the long haul.”

Other classic elements in the kitchen include the stainless steel refrigerator/ freezer and range, and cast iron sink. The fixtures and hardware, the kitchen’s “jewelry” as Givens describes them, are all in a subtle brass finish. Says Camille, “I do think hardware is incredibly important and can be an easy update if you’re not doing all new cabinets. This was the first time that we’ve done all knobs, and I love it. I think it looks dainty and more dressy, which this house needed.”

That dressed-up look continues into the adjacent butler’s pantry, which also received attention during the renovation project. The crisp white of the kitchen gives way to a moody tone here, thanks to the addition of Sherwin Williams Shade Grown paint on the existing cabinets and trim. New Carrara marble countertops with a decorative mitered edge detail, more brass knobs and an updated light pendant complete the space’s sophisticated and stunning ambiance.

Givens attributes the project’s success to the fact that she and the homeowners were on the same page with regard to the big picture as well as the fine details. “That’s a dream when somebody’s on board with that same vision,” she says. With these dream clients, the designer who loves both the technical particulars and the design process had the chance to create spaces with a beautiful, timeless aesthetic, and ideal function, form and flow.

Ashley Givens’ firm, A & E Interiors and Furnishings, specializes in kitchen and bath design, cabinetry planning and project management. The longtime Memphian holds a bachelor’s degree from Tennessee State University and a master’s in interior architecture from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She says her upbringing by her father, a computer programmer and systems analyst, and her mother, a homemaker and grade school teacher, makes her a natural fit for her chosen career. She explains, “I always knew I wanted to do something with computers and software, and I also loved the aspect of making a beautiful home, so I found my way into this world of interior design specializing in kitchen and bath design, where I get to be very technical. I love math, the measurements, the attention to detail; I do all the technical CAD drawings. To be able to manipulate the computer to create a real space for clients, it’s very enjoyable for me because it blends such important aspects of how I was brought up and enhances the everyday life and home of my clients.” Givens and her firm are proud members of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).

Native Memphian Paul Zanone started Zanone Builders 20 years ago after renovating the first house he and Camille bought as a newly married couple. Camille eventually came on board full time after spending years balancing a career in pharmaceutical sales with a parttime role in the family business. The custom home builders now specialize in new construction and remodels, focusing in East Memphis.

It’s Never Too Late to Discover the Joy of Cycling with Pedego Electric Bikes

Meet Rhonda and Tim Taylor, owners of the newly opened Pedego Electric Bikes Germantown, located at 9330 Poplar Pike. The Taylors discovered the joy of cycling with Pedego while on their honeymoon in New England in 2021. “That was our first introduction to riding an electric bike,” says Rhonda. “Both my husband and I found it to be such a unique experience. It was like reliving the pure freedom you had as a child, pedaling your bike while exploring new sites, but with the added benefit of the ability to switch your bike to ‘pedal assist’ or ‘full throttle’ when you needed an extra boost of momentum!”

That’s what makes the Pedego brand electric bike safe and enjoyable for riders of all ages and abilities. Pedego offers both pedal assist and throttle technology, providing riders more control and convenience. With the added throttle feature, you can effortlessly cruise along without pedaling, making it ideal for those moments when you need a break or simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride. E-bikes like Pedegos are particularly beneficial for individuals with low mobility issues, as they offer a means of becoming active again. The electric assistance enables riders to conquer hills or cover longer distances with ease, making it accessible to a wide range of people, regardless of their fitness level or physical limitations. As riders build stamina, Pedego enables them to set their own pace and enjoy being outdoors.

“After our experience with riding the Pedego bikes in New England, we noticed lots of e-riders the following year while visiting friends in Destin, Florida,” says Rhonda. “Remembering what an enjoyable time we had, it was an easy decision to purchase our Pedego bikes while in Florida, and we brought them back home with us to Germantown. We began exploring our city like never before, discovering parts of the Greenway we didn’t even know existed! We found that when you purchase a Pedego, you automatically become a part of the Pedego Owners Group, a nationwide group dedicated to sharing and connecting with one another.”

The Taylors also discovered there were no Pedego dealers in the surrounding area, which opened the opportunity for them to bring the joys of the Pedego community to Mid South residents. They did their research and found that Pedego Electric Bikes have an unparalleled reputation for quality, reliability and innovation, and offer the best warranty and service.

Pedego Germantown-Memphis has already begun to build their community. “We love hearing our customers’ stories,” says Rhonda, “and how this new way of cycling has improved their health and brought new joy to being outdoors!

“Cycling is even more enjoyable when shared with others. On a Pedego you will quickly discover that biking is not just about the destination, but also the joy of the journey with like-minded riders,” she adds.

The Taylors invite you to visit their store, open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or call 901.610.6494 for an appointment, and get ready to ignite your passion for biking with Pedego Electric Bikes!

SWISS BLISS: UNCOVER

THE WONDERS OF SWITZERLAND

TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS

People are drawn to Switzerland for a myriad of reasons. Thanks to its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, peace, and neutrality, Switzerland captivates the hearts of travelers from around the globe. Whether you're attracted to outdoor adventures, cultural offerings or simply the chance to unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes, Switzerland has something for every traveler.

The Swiss Alps are an iconic and majestic mountain range that spans the southern region of Switzerland, embodying the essence of the country’s stunning natural beauty. This captivating landscape offers an abundance of activities, attractions and breathtaking vistas that beckon travelers from across the globe.

The Swiss Alps are part of the larger Alpine range that stretches across eight countries in Europe. They cover a significant portion of Switzerland, with famous peaks such as the Matterhorn, Eiger and Jungfrau. These snow-capped mountains reach

impressive heights, with Dufourspitze in the Monte Rosa massif being the highest peak in Switzerland at 15,203 feet. The Swiss Alps are a paradise for skiing, snowboarding and hiking enthusiasts.

The Matterhorn in Zermatt is more than just a mountain; it’s a symbol of Swiss pride and alpine beauty. Summiting the Matterhorn is a rite of passage for many mountaineers, various routes to the top offer differing levels of difficulty. Peak season for skiing is from December through March.

The Matterhorn influences local culture, tourism and even chocolate (Toblerone’s distinctive triangular shape is inspired by the mountain) and is a symbol of Switzerland. Visiting Zermatt and experiencing the grandeur of the Matterhorn firsthand is a bucket-list-worthy adventure. Whether it’s through climbing, skiing or simply admiring the peak from a cozy café in Zermatt, the Matterhorn continues to awe and inspire visitors year after year.

Taking the Gornergrat Railway is one of the most remarkable ways to see the Matterhorn. It is the highest open-air railway in Europe, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Switzerland’s crystal-clear lakes are undoubtedly among the jewels of the country’s natural landscape, offering breathtaking beauty, a wide range of recreational activities, and tranquil spots for relaxation. Each lake has its own unique charm, and all are magnificent.

Lake Geneva is the largest lake in Switzerland and one of the largest in western Europe. The city of Geneva lies at its western tip. Some of the area’s main attractions are its chic promenades and vineyard-covered slopes including Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lake Zurich is nestled in the heart of Switzerland between the cantons of Zurich, St. Gallen and Schwyz. Picturesque towns like Rapperswil add to its appeal. Sailing, swimming, and hiking along the lake’s shores are popular activities.

Lake Lucerne is in the central part of Switzerland and is known for its complicated shape with several arms and surrounded by mountains, offering stunning scenic beauty. The city of Lucerne, with its historic landmarks including the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, adds cultural depth to its natural beauty. It is a favorite for boat cruises, especially on historic paddle steamers.

Lake Lugano in the southern part of Switzerland, is shared with Italy. It epitomizes the Mediterranean ambiance of the Ticino region, with palm trees and clear blue waters. This region is unique for its blend of Swiss and Italian cultures, evident in the architecture, cuisine and language.

I just returned from an annual Travel Leaders summit in Lugano and loved this hidden gem for many reasons.

The town is located less than 50 miles north of Como, Italy, nestled between the picturesque Lake Lugano and the majestic Swiss Alps. Whether you're exploring the lush Parco Civico along the lake or taking in panoramic views from Monte Brè, the scenery is unmatched. Lugano has a distinct Mediterranean vibe. The city boasts a mild climate and beautiful gardens, giving it a unique blend of Swiss serenity and Italian zest.

I stayed at Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola, an absolutely charming five-star property, situated right on Lake Lugano. Constructed in the late 1800s as a winter home for a Russian noble, the hotel is a masterpiece. It’s only a short walk from the town center, where you’ll find the Palazzo dei Congressi, museums, casino and shops. Best of all, the hotel is right in front of the bus stop—very handy for exploring. Local buses make travel anywhere in Lugano a breeze.

For stunning panoramic views in Lugano, take a funicular cable car up the mountains. Each offers a unique vista of the surrounding area, and there are lovely restaurants at the top where you can enjoy a meal with a view.

A boat tour on Lake Lugano highlights the beauty of the region from the water. Several companies offer tours, ranging from short trips to full-day excursions, allowing you to explore the picturesque villages and majestic landscapes along the lake’s shores.

Lugano is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene. The LAC (Lugano Arte e Cultura) is a central point for performing arts and exhibitions. The city's streets and piazzas are lined with museums, galleries and historic buildings mirroring its rich heritage. The fusion of Swiss and Italian cuisines makes Lugano a foodie's paradise. From gourmet Ticinese specialties to Italian classics, the city offers a diverse palette of flavors. The lakeside setting also means fresh seafood dishes are a must-try.

Lugano's city center is a bustling area with luxury boutiques, designer stores and quaint shops offering Swiss watches, chocolates, and handicrafts. The Piazza della Riforma is a lively square where locals and tourists alike gather for events, markets and to enjoy the cafes.

Best of all, the city is well-connected by train, making trips to nearby attractions and international destinations easily manageable. Lugano is truly a place where Swiss precision meets Italian charm, offering something for everyone. From cultural pursuits to natural wonders, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors. The entire town is beautiful and easy to navigate, and the people are friendly and helpful.

Here’s a quick overview of other Swiss cities that are popular among travelers:

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a cultural hub, with more than 50 museums and over 100 art galleries. The Old Town (Altstadt) is a historical jewel. The city’s vibrant nightlife and the serene Lake Zurich create a perfect blend of urban life and natural beauty.

Geneva hosts the United Nations headquarters and is the center of international diplomacy. The city is also known for its Red Cross Museum, picturesque lakeside setting, and the Jet d'Eau, one of the world's tallest fountains.

Bern is the Swiss capital and features a well-preserved medieval city center, home to the Zytglogge (an ancient clock tower), Bear Park and the Federal Palace of Switzerland. The winding streets and historical ambience make it a captivating city to explore.

Zermatt, famed for skiing, climbing and hiking, lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the Alps. It’s a car-free village, preserving its tranquil alpine atmosphere.

Basel is located at the border of France and Germany. The city of art and culture is home to Art Basel, one of the largest art fairs in the world. The beautiful Old Town and position along the Rhine River make it a picturesque place to explore. If you are taking a river cruise down the Rhine River, more than likely your cruise will either begin or end in Basel.

Each of these cities has a unique flavor of Swiss life and landscapes, from urban sophistication and historical sites to breathtaking natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities.

Getting Around Switzerland

Getting around Switzerland is a breeze, thanks to the country’s efficient, reliable and comprehensive transportation network. Switzerland’s commitment to public transport makes it one of the most accessible countries to explore, regardless of whether you’re venturing into bustling cities or seeking serenity in remote alpine villages. Pro Tip: Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses and boats, plus free or discounted entry to many museums.

Switzerland offers a complete package, whether you want a vacation full of adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or simply the joy of being in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It not only lives up to its picture-postcard reputation but exceeds it with its quality of life and deep-rooted respect for nature and culture.

For more information on planning a vacation to Switzerland, contact Travel Leaders at 901.377.6600 or 901.853.6200, or visit www.gotravelleaders.com.

Offices, open by appointment only, are located at 2765 Wolf Creek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N. Main St., Ste.101A, Collierville.

Chinese Chicken Salad

RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGARET MONGER

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT LIGHT AND COLORFUL DISH TO SERVE AT YOUR MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH OR A GRADUATION LUNCHEON? THIS SALAD IS THE ONE—IT’S LIGHT, YET FILLING WITH THE CHICKEN AND ALSO WONDERFUL IF YOU DECIDE TO USE SHRIMP INSTEAD. SERVED WITH YOUR FAVORITE PIMENTO CHEESE FINGER SANDWICH AND A SIDE OF FRUIT, THIS MAKES A BEAUTIFUL PLATE FOR ANY OCCASION!

CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD

SERVES 4-6 AS A MAIN DISH

SALAD

3 cups chopped Romaine lettuce

2 cups shredded red cabbage

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

1 cup mandarin oranges (Drained, if using canned)

1 package of ramen noodles (seasoning discarded) crushed and lightly toasted on the stovetop in a pat of butter

½ cup shredded carrots

½ cup sliced green onions

½ cup sliced almonds

DIRECTIONS

DRESSING

3 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar

2 Tbsp. honey

1 Tbsp. sesame oil

1 Tbsp. hoisin sauce

2 Tbsp. soy sauce

1 tsp. minced garlic

1 clove garlic, minced

¼ cup vegetable oil

Toss together lettuce, cabbage, chicken, oranges, crushed ramen noodles, carrots, green onions and almonds. Mix the dressing, combining all ingredients except the vegetable oil. Whisk the vegetable oil in slowly and constantly until emulsified. Right before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Nurturing Lifelong Bonds: THE CONTINUUM OF PARENTING AND FAMILY CONNECTION

STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

PARENTING embodies

one of life’s most complex yet profoundly rewarding experiences. Whether we are celebrating the joys or navigating the challenges, the role of a parent is undeniably central to human development. In May and June we spotlight our gratitude toward mothers and fathers. These months are the ideal time to recognize the spectrum of experiences surrounding parenting, from joyous celebrations to painful complexities.

Research highlights that no other influence in early life is more significant than that of our parents. The effects of this influence extend beyond childhood, shaping our personality traits and personal relationships into adulthood. Parents not only transfer their genetic legacies but also impart deep-seated values and habits, sometimes referred to as “legacy burdens and/or gifts.” These elements can either enrich a child’s life or perpetuate cycles that many strive to break.

From their child's first breath, parents are tasked with preparing them for independence. The relationship shifts from dependency to peer-like as children mature into adulthood. Successful navigation of

this path allows for a deepened connection, where both parent and child grow together rather than apart. It’s essential to recognize that while the physical dependency might wane, the emotional and relational bonds continue to evolve and strengthen over time. The bond will either strengthen positively or negatively, depending on the parent’s ability and willingness to nurture the relationship.

Parenting is far from easy, and parents are far from flawless. Every parent brings their history and experiences into the relationship, influencing their parenting style, for better or worse. Acknowledging the imperfections in how we were parented and how we parent is not only courageous but necessary. In Southern culture, while there’s a tendency to emphasize the positive, true growth comes from also addressing what didn’t work. This dual approach allows for a more comprehensive growth process, acknowledging past pains and laying the groundwork for improved future relationships.

One of the most powerful tools in nurturing family connections is conversation. Open discussions about the joys and challenges of parenting facilitates understanding and healing. These

conversations should not be limited by the child's age; every stage of life offers new opportunities for dialogue and connection. For families with a history of trauma, professional counseling can be invaluable in guiding these discussions safely and constructively.

To foster better family dynamics, it is crucial for parents to engage in self-reflection and to understand the impacts of their parenting. Following are a few steps toward deepening parent-child connections:

1. Par ents' reflection on their own childhood experiences and how they translate into parenting styles can provide clarity.

2. Takin g an assessment of the current relationship with the child is essential for parents to have a deeper connection in the relationship.

3. Par ents should be willing to engage in curious dialogue to gain insight to how the child perceives their relationship and

how the child developed that perception.

4. Par ents should be willing to engage in curious dialogue to gain insight to how the child perceives themselves and how the child developed their perception of themselves.

5. Par ents should be open and available to feedback from their child without judging or justifying themselves or the child; just listening.

The journey of parenting is a continuous opportunity for growth, understanding and celebration. As we navigate this path, let us strive for deeper connections and a better understanding of the roles we play in our children’s lives. Embracing both the imperfections and triumphs of parenting allows us to foster not only healthier family relationships but also a more compassionate self-view. When our families are healthy, our communities are healthy.

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ED MURPHEY CLASSIC

The Ed Murphey Classic track and field meet began as a small event that has blossomed into a world-class competition.

In 2023, the Classic gained international recognition, ranking 25th globally and fifth nationally based on outstanding performances witnessed during the event. But it’s not just a track and field event; it’s a cornerstone of empowering Memphis youth toward healthier lifestyles. With the mission of the Murphey Track Club at its heart, this event offers no-cost clinics, coaching and competition opportunities to local youth. By providing access to world-class athletes, the Classic aims to inspire and motivate young athletes in the Memphis area, ultimately keeping them on the right track in sports and in life.

Launched in 2023, the Murphey Track Club further solidifies its commitment to the community by offering free coaching,

uniforms, refreshments and mentorship opportunities. By strategically locating practice sites in low-income areas, the club ensures accessibility for all, breaking down transportation barriers and fostering inclusivity.

The Club’s impact extends far beyond athletics. Through track and field clinics, the club collaborates with Memphis Shelby County Schools to provide inner-city kids with exposure to new disciplines and skill enhancements under the guidance of expert coaches.

Proceeds from the Classic, set for July 11-13 this year, are reinvested into the community through various outreach efforts. From providing essential equipment to local schools to supporting initiatives like the Shelby County Metro Track & Field camp, the Classic is a beacon of encouragement, promoting youth development and community engagement every step of the way.

TEXT AND PHOTO COURTESY OF ED MURPHEY