September 2015

A

Place WITH A Past

HOME ENTERTAINMENT SPACES

SPECIAL SECTION: RETIREMENT LIVING

CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2015

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19 SPECIAL RETIREMENT LIVING An inside look at retirement living in the Mid South

30 HOME A PLACE WITH A PAST A beautiful field house, a charming garden and rich history make Bob Bond’s home a special place

40 DESIGN LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Home entertainment spaces

ON THE COVER - HOME FEATURE Bob Bond’s Field House in Bond’s Crossing, Tennessee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! 6 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2015

F O R YO U 18 healthy you Healthy Eating Made Easy 24 finance Retirement Planning 26 beauty Fall Palette 98 on a good note Wings Polo Classic

HOME & DESIGN

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28 at home with Cheryl Pesce 46 style marketplace Media & Game Rooms 50 technology Ultimate Home Theater Experience 52 home trends Beautiful Room Lighting

T R AV E L & C U L T U R E 54 visit this Tennessee Pearl Farm & Museum 58 getaway Natchez, Mississippi 62 travel U.S. Virgin Islands 70 social pages 74 experience this Shelby Farms 80 arts Matthew Hasty

FOOD & DRINK 82 entertaining "Kicking off" the football weekend in Oxford, MS 90 in the kitchen Weeknight Recipes 92 dining out Skybox Grill and Bar 94 happy hour Watermelon Sazerac Cocktail

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 | PUBLISHER’S NOTE

82 8 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

14 | CONTRIBUTORS 97 | SOURCES

SEPTEMBER 2015 • VOL. 14 NO. 6 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 MELINDA SANDERS | msanders@athomemms.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS RALPH CRAFTON, LEILANI EVANS, SUZIE HANSEN, JOHN TERRY, STEVE ROBERTS

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 • September 2015

publisher’s note

The Final Lap

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he official beginning of fall is less than a month away and, as of today, the weather certainly is in agreement. Parents with primary school children are settled in and those of us with college-age kids survived the “move in.” We are fortunate that neither one of ours needed that fifth year “victory lap,” so we just completed our eighth and final college move in and it is very bittersweet.

The four years of move ins with Callie required a convoy hauling enough furnishings for a family of four, and with Duncan it was more like, “just pile in what we can fit and the rest we will get at Walmart.” It’s also amazing how much they mature and how those first phone calls home change. I remember Callie calling home her freshman year to ask if she could really go out on a school night. After moving into her house her senior year, she called asking for tomato and basil plants for her deck. Duncan’s freshman year he just wanted to make sure he had enough money on his Ole Miss flex card for the Chick Fil A within walking distance. Last week he called for my pot roast recipe and also wanted to know how I cook my Brussels sprouts.

Although our move in days in Oxford are over, our time spent there is far from done. We will continue to return for many more visits for shopping and dining on the square and tailgating in the Grove. I look forward to brisk fall days tailgating in the Grove, celebrating Rebel victories and, who knows, maybe even cheering them on the a national championship. When that happens, Dan Mullen might want to have his school down south look into a Starbucks sponsorship in anticipation of the sleepless years he’ll be suffering. It’s all in good fun. Happy fall and wishing all the players of our favorite sport in the South a safe season. Hotty Toddy, y’all!

12 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

contributors ANGELA MAZANTI • Entertaining is the proprietor of Angela Mazanti Design. She specializes in interior, floral and event design, and her work has been locally and nationally recognized as outstanding in the field.

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.

14 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

Corinth

healthy you

Healthy Eating

Made Easy

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Text by Shannon Leeke | Photography by Brandall Atkinson Photography

eading a healthy lifestyle involves eating beneficial foods, in small portions, frequently. Beneficial foods are those that maintain your body’s health, prevent disease and improve your quality of life. They include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and heart-healthy fats.

lean muscle mass—especially if your meals are made up of beneficial foods.

Eating these foods will increase your energy level while protecting you from chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Smaller portioned meals will keep the number of calories you consume in check, decreasing the risk of chronic disease. Eating frequent, small meals helps maintain blood sugar levels and prevents a metabolism crash, providing steady energy. Ideally, you should stay satisfied throughout the day—not too full, not too hungry.

Ultimate Foods created a concept in Memphis to break the barriers associated with healthy eating. The company sells fresh, healthy meals that are individually portioned.

Ultimate Foods’ chef and health coach collaborate to develop handcrafted, nutritionally balanced meals that fuel your body.

Even the brownies are guilt free; with black beans and avocado for a boost of nutrition, the sweet treats prove that eating healthy can be delicious, too! Living a gluten-free lifestyle? The stores offer a variety of gluten-free options that contain lowglycemic carbohydrates for longer-lasting energy. Ultimate’s variety of meals, including seasonal options, motivates customers to form the habits associated with healthy eating.

It’s important to eat healthy consistently for optimal health benefits and disease prevention. Healthy “fast food,” foods to maximize your workout routine, and services that provide health-conscious planning, shopping and cooking can help make everyday clean eating achievable. For optimal energy and health, it’s important to strive for five meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. This can stave off food cravings, control blood sugar levels and insulin production, reduce body fat storage, provide you with more energy and increase

Deliciously fresh, healthy breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack options are now available seven days a week at Ultimate Foods’ two Memphis locations: East Memphis and Cordova.

Stores will open in Olive Branch and Collierville soon. With convenient online ordering customers receive five days of meals delivered right to their door on Sundays. Now that Ultimate Foods puts healthy, affordable and tasty meals at your fingertips, it is easier than ever to live the abundant life you were meant to have. Small steps can create big results.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

An Inside Look

Special Advertising Section on Retirement Living September 2015 • athomemms.com | 19

Special Advertising Section

Retirement Living Five Things to Consider Before You Retire Text by Vicki Tyler

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erhaps you have been dreaming of living near the ocean once you retire, or downsizing and moving into a place that takes care of all the house maintenance and employs a chef. Before you get too close to retirement age, you need to take a look at where you are now with your savings. You may see your dream become a reality or you may need to start saving a lot more.

3. Decide Where You Want to Live

1. Be Realistic

Many retirees sell their home and move to warmer climates in top retirement spots like Florida, North Carolina and Arizona. Others plan to stay in their current home, while many consider downsizing and moving to a one-story home with less yard and lower maintenance costs. Some may move in with family members or look at “over 55” communities that offer lots of social activities as well as a nice place to live.

Take a look at how much money you have in your savings and retirement accounts, and how much you spend now. Are you eligible for a company-sponsored pension, 401(k), 403(b) or Roth IRA or are you hoping that Social Security pays enough when you apply?

If health issues are a concern, take a look at places that offer various levels of assisted living. Several facilities in the Memphis area offer tiered levels of service (and tiered pricing). There are also special places for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Do you have a budget? Many financial advisors say that expenses in the early years of retirement equal or exceed the money you spend now. Research by Consumer Reports shows that a good rule of thumb is to have 80 to 90 percent of current income if you want to maintain your current standard of living after you retire.

4. Pay Off Debts

You may plan to take care of your bucket list once you retire. If it means spending a lot more on travel than you do now, be sure to add that to what you need to save. Use an online calculator like the free retirement income calculators on the T. Rowe Price and AARP websites to determine how much you will need in retirement. Consumer Reports says that if you feel you need to catch up on your retirement savings and your company offers a 401(k) or 403(b) account, you should “make the maximum contribution allowed. Putting in $10,000 a year from age 50 through 55 would add more than $190,000* to your portfolio by age 67.”

2. Consider Gradual Retirement If you used the calculator and discovered you need to work longer to do the things you want to do in retirement, think about your options for making money. More than 80 percent of respondents in a recent Consumer Reports survey said they plan to work full or part-time after retiring. Be sure to check and see if working part-time affects your health benefits if you receive them from work.

20 || At At Home Home Memphis Memphis & & Mid Mid South South •• January September 2015 20 2015

Carrying credit card debt is never a great financial move, so if you have large balances on your credit cards, look at ways to reduce and eliminate the debt. Having a garage sale or consigning antique items is a quick way to raise cash. Do you have a hobby like painting or organizing homes and offices that could help pay down debt?

Side note: To help your children make sure they save enough for retirement, remind them to take advantage of any company retirement savings plans when they find their dream job. The earlier they save, the more they’ll have. And if their company plan offers a Roth IRA, they won’t have to pay federal income tax on it when they withdraw funds after retirement.

5. Ensure You Have Your Financial, Medical and Legal Documents in Order Ask your attorney to review your will and update it as needed. In several Mid South states free forms are available online or at hospitals to set up health care directives to make sure you state what you want done in case of a severe illness or accident.

Note: *given a historical average annual rate of return of 8.3 percent for a 50 percent mix of stocks and bonds.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 21

Special Advertising Section

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The Village at Germantown

elcome home to The Village at Germantown! The Village is a full-service independent living community with a full continuum of care including assisted living, memory care, skilled care services, rehabilitation programs and a newly added adult day care program. Currently there are 170 apartments and 28 villas located on 28 picturesque acres in the heart of Germantown. Convenient to shopping, dining, doctors, hospitals and entertainment, The Village is the premier retirement address in Germantown.

A continuing care retirement community is an investment in each resident’s future. It provides the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have a place to live, always have the care you need and that you can live your life your way… every day! The Village provides so many opportunities to meet people, build friendships, rekindle old hobbies and experience new adventures. Some of The Village’s amenities include multiple dining venues, a pub, and a fitness center including an Olympic-sized pool, a walking track, a full-service spa and a salon. Additionally, there is a library, computer center, woodworking shop, crafting area, auditorium, wellness center and more for each resident to enjoy at their leisure.

Resident and staff volunteers work with multiple charitable groups in many ways such as participating in food drives, organizing clothing drives for women and children, working with local schools and participating with the Make-AWish Foundation. The Village’s affiliation with Methodist Healthcare offers unparalleled health-related benefits. The Village residents enjoy doctors and nurses on campus, educational classes and clinics, rehabilitation services,

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preventive wellness programs and access to cutting-edge medical technology.

The expansion of the health care center is nearly complete, allowing The Village to accept new residents from the outside community for the first time since opening in 2005. This fall, The Village will break ground on an expansion of 31 additional apartment residences that will include underground parking. The new apartments are spacious, open-concept designs with crown molding, washers and dryers, walk-in closets, granite countertops, stainless or black appliances and the option to choose your finishes if you reserve a new residence prior to the completion of the new building.

Numerous upgrades are also available to suit the most discriminating palate.

Looking for something now? Due to the expansion, a few apartments are available for immediate occupancy. New residents can personalize their new apartments as they would a custom home. The Village’s professional team makes the process easy. From helping you with selling your home, working with you on a seamless move and getting you settled in to your new residence, our team with over 62 years’ experience servicing The Village is here for you!

Let us clean your residence bi-weekly, wash towels and sheets, provide three restaurant style dining options each day and have the ability to utilize our scheduled transportation, or arrange for transportation to a personal destination. 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the team at The Village is dedicated to meeting and exceeding our resident’s expectations.

Welcome home to The Village at Germantown!

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 23

finance

Retirement Planning INTERVIEW BY JANNA FITE HERBISON

P

lanning for retirement or just learning to invest wisely can present a number of challenges, but taking a few simple steps can help make the process easier and maximize the effectiveness of longterm investments. At Home Memphis & Mid South recently talked with Jackson,Tennessee, based financial advisor Brad Little with Voya Financial.

is how to take one and translate it into both. The calculator is a good starting point, but then we get more detailed during the actual planning process.

AHMMS: In layman’s terms, please give us a brief overview of the different types of retirement plans out there today.

BRAD LITTLE

At Home Memphis & Mid South: At what age do you recommend clients begin to save for retirement?

Brad Little: We have a basic motto for our firm: “The earlier the better, but it’s never too late to start.” I truly believe that. Just start where you are; some savings are always better than none, and a little can add up more quickly than you realize.

AHMMS: What advice do you give those with advanced careers who do not yet have retirement savings?

BL: When it comes to older workers, pension plans are becoming less and less reliable based on recent trends. It doesn’t matter how old you are—again, saving is just a good practice. Even later in life, it is more than worth it for the tax deferral. When it’s all said and done, don’t leave any money on the table.

AHMMS: What are some options you offer clients who have drained their retirement savings due to a medical emergency, poor economic circumstances or mismanagement of funding?

BL: We encourage clients not to touch retirement plans, if at all possible. Building up a long-term fund and money for emergencies is extremely important. However, if you have to get into your retirement savings, take care of the immediate situation at hand, then start saving again, and save even more, if possible. Also be sure to take advantage of the full match when it comes to company retirement plans.

AHMMS: Explain the concept behind a retirement calculator.

BL: It is basically a tool we use as a starting point to determine an individual’s retirement income and/or future value. The challenge 24 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

BL: Many people are only familiar with the 401(k) offered by employers, but depending on the type of company or organization, there are other plans that accomplish the same thing. Non-profit organizations offer 403(b) plans, while government entities typically offer 457(b) retirement plan options. Sometimes these overlap, especially when it comes to non-profits, but in the end they have the same ultimate goal. Examples of individual options for financial planning include either a Simple or Roth IRA, or a SEP. AHMMS: What are the most important criteria to consider when it comes to risk management with funds?

BL: We look at specific criteria when it comes to allocating a client’s money: age, years left in the workplace, dependency on money, and overall risk tolerance. After being in the business more than 15 years, I pretty much know after about five minutes of talking with a new client what direction they need. That just comes with years of experience. Time is the primary ingredient in a retirement plan, along with diversification. Many clients hear financial planning terms and aren’t sure of their exact meaning. Here is an example of how we try to simplify it: “diversification and asset allocation” basically involve dividing your money the right way to potentially meet your goals for the future in a smooth fashion. That’s it.

AHMMS: You and your father have been in business together in Jackson for years. Give us some background on your mutual history in the financial investment world.

BL: We have been fortunate to work together over the years in the same company and industry. My father, Steve Little, has been in financial planning since ’74, and I came into the business in ’99.

We specialize in group retirement plans, along with retirement income planning and wealth management. We pride ourselves on providing local and individualized services to our clients. In this business, it’s very important to establish long-term relationships with the people whose money we manage. That helps us do our job more effectively over the long haul.

Special Advertising Section

Kirby Pines Estates & The Farms at Bailey Station

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ousing trends among baby boomers suggest there is a sustained increase in the demand for worryfree retirement living. If luxury, beauty, comfort, security and a sense of community are high on your list, you’ll find Kirby Pines Estates and The Farms at Bailey Station are your best choices. Both are among western Tennessee’s most highly-regarded communities and managed by Retirement Communities of America (RCA), a faith-based, mission-driven organization with a legacy of caring for residents in their golden years. The needs and desires of residents guide all decisions, with a focus on providing a carefree lifestyle for the happiness, independence and longevity of each resident.

Kirby Pines, located in East Memphis, has been serving seniors for over 30 years and The Farms at Bailey Station, nestled at the border of Germantown and Collierville, is currently in pre-construction and taking reservations for garden homes and luxury apartments. Both offer amenity-rich indoor and outdoor environments, as well as a small-town feel with the safety and security that go along with it.

If you’re an empty nester, you’re likely ready to downsize and enjoy more of what life has to offer besides yard work and house maintenance. Keep it simple; sell your house and make Kirby

Pines or The Farms your new home. Both offer elegant ways to retire and stay active. At Kirby Pines, you’ll be in heaven on their 60-acre, gated wonderland of mature pine trees, a stocked lake for fishing and quiet trails for walking, running and riding your bike. You can also enjoy gardening year round in their lush, newly renovated greenhouse. Inside, you can dance, attend social gatherings, swim, lift weights, and afterwards, get pampered in their spa and beauty shop! The activities list is long and includes woodworking, games, music, dancing and shows in the 350-seat Performing Arts Center, complete with a flex stage designed for ballet and symphony performances.

At Kirby Pines, you’ll discover many healthy food choices in their five dining venues, from a casual café with a grill to a gourmet buffet to a formal dining room with table service.

With all of this and more, you truly won’t ever have to leave!

Both communities offer Life Care coverage which helps preserve your assets and give you peace of mind. It means you will be taken care of for the rest of your life on one campus offering skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient rehab, assisted living and memory care. To learn more about either community visit kirbypines.com or thefarmsatbaileystation.com.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 25

beauty

Modernist Eyeshadow Palette in Graphite Smokey Hourglass, $58

Burberry Kisses in Union Red Burberry Make-up, $33

Fall Palette from smoky eyes to red lips, Glam it up this season

Brightening Brick in Pastel Pink Bobbi Brown, $46

Cat's Meow Lip & Cheek Tint Tory Burch, $38

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Pro Longwear Blush in Rosy Outlook M•A•C Cosmetics, $27

Baked Eye Colour in Ballet Pink Laura Mercier, $26

Moondust Eyeshadow in Interstellar Urban Decay, $20

Nourish Cleanse Treat

Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Bronze Light Hourglass, $50

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 27

at home with

Cheryl Pesce Interview by Lesley Harris Colvett Photography by John Terry, Forest hill photography

At Home Memphis & Mid South chatted with Mid South jewelry designer Cheryl Pesce on her passion for creating, her inspirations and trends she’s loving right now.

At Home Memphis & Mid South: Where did you grow up and go to school?

Cheryl Pesce: I grew up in Columbus, Arkansas, in the southwest part of the state, on the Texas border. I attended grade school and high school in rural southern Arkansas, and it was there that I first began to create elaborate macramé plant hangers for my teachers. Upon graduation from college in southern Arkansas, I accepted a position as a special education teacher in Houston, Texas. I later moved to Memphis as a pharmaceutical and medical equipment representative.

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AHMMS: What do you enjoy most about designing jewelry?

CP: I love the creativity of it all—being able to take an inspiration and transform it into a piece of art from start to finish. I love art, beautiful gemstones and metal pieces, so finding them and putting them together to create something that someone else can wear every day, if they choose, is thrilling. Also, it’s a way to honor my family, specifically my grandmothers, in a very nontraditional way. Both of them wore copper bracelets, a metal I love to use in design, and thought black-eyed peas were symbols of good luck. Today, I use a copper bowl of black-eyed peas in my displays as homage to them.

at home with AHMMS: What inspires you when you design pieces?

AHMMS: Favorite places to travel?

CP: My surroundings are key in the creative process. I begin each day with a walk where I can draw on the elements of nature right here in Memphis for inspiration. From the calm of the Mississippi River to rich and colorful sunrises, each sparks creative ideas. People, their style and their stories also inspire me. I try to incorporate those muses into each piece.

CP: I love the fast pace and excitement of New York City and Chicago. The hustle and bustle in larger metropolitan areas inspires me to keep going and achieve my dreams, but I also enjoy relaxation and closeness to water. A recent adventure I had was both beautiful and invigorating. I returned home with unique raw materials to use in design and a new inspiration to create more beautiful things.

AHMMS: Any hobbies?

CP: I enjoy photography. I love capturing all of the beautiful things in the city from murals on South Main Street to the gorgeous sunsets. My hobby is a catalyst for inspiration, and consequently, it contributes to my work as an artisan.

AHMMS: What are your favorite things to do in Memphis?

CP: Having a great meal at a local eatery, listening to live music and visiting some of our hometown gems like repertory theaters, historical sites and farmers markets are some of my favorite things to do in the city. Memphis has a rich culture and ever-changing landscape. It’s important to me to explore my city as if I were a tourist.

AHMMS: Any trends in jewelry and/or accessories that you are loving right now?

CP: The trend I love right now is layering necklaces. With one long piece, you’re able to create a layered effect that finishes your look. Layering different textures of necklaces or stacking bracelets is something simple anyone can do to liven up their style. The beauty of accessories is their ability to transform not only an outfit, but also the person who’s wearing them.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 29

HOMEfeature

A Place WI TH A

Past

TEXT BY JORDANA WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE ROBERTS & RALPH CRAFTON

BOB BOND CELEBRATES 188 YEARS AT BOND’S CROSSING HOME IN WEST TENNESSEE

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September 2015 • athomemms.com | 31

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hen Bob Bond first came to Bond’s Crossing, his family’s longtime home about halfway between Brownsville and Jackson, Tennessee, he was just a newborn, but even then it was clear that one day he would take possession of this icon of family history. Today he has done just that, taking seriously the task of celebrating the past while ensuring modern adaptations are made to meet his immediate family’s needs.

Originally a two-bedroom homestead, Bond’s Crossing began its transformation in 1945, when The Oaks (the nearby ancestral plantation) caught fire, tragically burning beyond repair. Fortunately, many of the plantation’s original furnishings were salvaged before the flames grew out of control, and the process of expanding the furniture’s new residence, Bond’s Crossing, was begun shortly thereafter.

Today, after four separate renovations, Bond has found a comfortable balance between old and new in the home.

Much of the furniture on display dates back to the 1800s; as Bond tells it, the eclectic mix of pieces is “early attic and late cellar—whatever came down in the family” (a line he borrowed from his mother). Set against the backdrop of the modern conveniences that make the house livable, the contrast creates a tableau worthy of admiration.

At the end of a long hallway lies the updated master suite, complete with a granite-topped vanity in the master bath, among other 21st-century style nods and technologically advanced amenities. But while modernity lies at its end, the

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Bob Bond celebrates 188 years September 2015 • athomemms.com | 33

hall itself is lined with portraits of the eight generations of Bond family members who have lived in Bond’s Crossing or The Oaks. Of particular note is Martha Elizabeth Hare Bond’s portrait: born in 1818 to a family of Fayette County’s earliest settlers, she and her siblings were educated in the home by a live-in governess, as there were no public schools in the area at the time.

In a similar dichotomy, the kitchen/family room has been renovated to reflect a modern aesthetic with walls of windows, vaulted and beamed ceilings, clean white cabinetry and updated appliances. But the heavy wooden furniture, some constructed with 36-inch poplar boards, and the framed county maps lining the walls hearken back to the home’s almost 200-year-old roots.

Other markers of the past fill the home, as well; in the guest bedroom, the walls and ceiling are lined with knotty

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pine panels. The planks are special to the family since they were installed at the time of the 1945 addition, right after The Oaks burned to the ground. An old checkers table sits by the bed, begging guests to remember the generations of Bonds who have sat there and played.

Light fixtures, wall hangings and numerous pieces of framed artwork call to mind the generations of collectors, all with varying tastes, who have lived within the walls of this structure. Oversized, gilded mirrors in the dining and living rooms reflect the pomp and circumstance of a former plantation.

And then there’s the den where, in addition to perfectly worn carpets and rich leather seating, over 100 family photos, spanning the very history of photography, line the built-in shelving and adorn every side table and decorative furniture piece.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 35

Another special feature of the property, one that’s fairly unique to older homes, is the presence of a field house, situated on the courtyard at Bond’s Crossing. Surrounding the field house is a garden that is almost 100 percent in the shade—pleasant for sitting, but a real issue for Karen Davenport of Kaja Farms, who was in charge of landscaping for the property. In addition to limited sun, Davenport and her husband (and business partner) Keith Hutcherson had to deal with negligible soil and a mouse population that, according to Davenport, “rivals that of Memphis.”

In spite of all those challenges, the Kaja Farms team persevered, implementing a new drip watering system that helps make the garden more sustainable. And the hard work paid off—this spot is now Bond’s favorite on the property. “I can have fun with a small dinner party or

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have 200 friends and family over with live music on the courtyard,” he muses.

It is fitting that Bond finds a variety of ways to enjoy life at the family homestead because, to live in a place with as much history as Bond’s Crossing, you must have a passion for the past. “You have to love your old house and be prepared to be its custodian,” Bond explains. “Every family has a compelling history. But most people don’t know much about their family beyond living memory. I’m blessed to be surrounded by my family memories. I hope to spend my entire life here, and I hope Bond’s Crossing will remain in the family as a reminder of our history, while also being someone’s comfortable home.”

”

Another special feature of the property, one that’s fairly unique to older homes, is the presence of a field house...”

September February 2015 • athomemms.com | 37

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 39

Lights, Camera, ACTION! HOME ENTERTAINMENT SPACES TEXT BY LESLEY HARRIS COLVETT | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PHOENIX UNEQUALED HOME ENTERTAINMENT

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design

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rom Super Bowl parties to family movie nights, home theaters and media rooms are very versatile and popular with today’s homeowners.

Experts say more and more homeowners are seeking a movie-theater environment inside their own home, and many want a viewing experience that is better than they can have in a commercial theater. According to Scott Fuelling, President of Phoenix Unequaled Home Entertainment, clients are requesting higher-performing electronic components such as projectors, surround sound and control.

These rooms feature custom finishes, acoustical treatments, and seating and décor elements that provide the ultimate theater experience.

Safety, comfort, security and performance all weigh into the benefits, as does convenience. “Many of our clients have these types of entertainment areas in their home for both their children and themselves.

They like the fact the children are home and their friends come over to hang out. Parents use these for movie nights or specialized sports event viewing with friends, and let’s not forget the ultimate in family movie night. With the streaming options available, recent releases can be viewed shortly after the theatrical releases have run their course. We even represent a company that offers day and date theatrical releases in the home that line up with the commercial theatrical release,” Fuelling says. He notes that there is a large premium associated with this service, but it is available nonetheless.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 41

design

Frazier family's home theater - photo by Steve Roberts & Ralph Crafton

”opulence

HEAVY FABRIC, GILDING AND

!

” Photo by Steve Roberts & Ralph Crafton

42 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

Tammi and Dr. Randy Frazier’s home in Corinth, Mississippi, features a home theater that was a year in the making. After an extensive two-year house renovation, the family moved in, took a break and then began the home theater a year later. “My husband had thought about and researched how he wanted to do his theater for that year break. AVS forum was an indispensable resource for a ‘do-it-yourselfer.’ He is an orthopaedic surgeon with an engineering undergrad which lends itself to his drive to do it himself,” explains Tammi.

The room was originally a bedroom and is situated in the center of the house, so sound isolation was imperative. According to the Fraziers this led to utilizing the “room within a room” concept for construction. It was adjacent to a smaller room that was added in the renovation. This allowed an acoustically transparent screen to separate the rooms and hide the front soundstage speakers and subwoofer from view. Completing the 7.1 system, four surround speakers were incorporated into the side and rear columns.

Randy picked his projector, screen size, sound system, acoustical treatments and seat placement, stage design and tiered seating from surfing the forum. “We researched the interior design together,” Tammi says. “We tried to do a theater that would have been in the 1900s. That era includes heavy fabric, gilding and opulence! We included red chenille fabric with gold rope fringe for the curtain on our stage.

We found a complementary fabric in a diamond pattern for the custom-made reclining chairs. Extensive consideration was given to sound isolation from the rest of the house and acoustical treatments within the room itself,” says Tammi. The walls were finished out in heavy tapestry with batting behind to provide more sound absorption.

All of the crown and trim was painted black then gilded, and the carpet features a black pattern. A “ticket taker” mannequin in costume, found online, signage, and a concession stand add a festive touch to the room.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 43

design

A NICE TOUCH Introducing a pull-down projector screen can really add a surprise "wow" factor!

44 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

“We have been able to host many movie nights, Super Bowl parties, and Xbox gaming marathons. Family and friend time is very important to us, and this allows us to have a place for both to gather frequently,” Tammi says.

Fuelling advises clients considering creating a home theater experience that media rooms typically are easier to install and more practical to implement than home theaters, just by the nature of the finished product. “A true home theater is always going to be a much larger undertaking due to construction, design elements, finishes and the required electronics. If the client is interested in a true theater experience in their home, this is absolutely the way to go. They will not only have the high-performance audio/video, but the environment will easily lend itself to the total experience,” he says. “Media rooms are much easier to add, due to the nature and multipurpose configuration. You can basically add a large screen and surround sound to most any room and if it is properly designed, have a great experience.”

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 45

styleMARKETPLACE Seatcraft Palamino Home Theater Seating $795 each, Brookstone

Media & GaMe RooMs MaxiMize the fun at hoMe with these gaMes and accessories

Competition Foosball Table $3,995, Restoration Hardware

Red Movie Ticket Accent Pillow $12.99, Kirkland's 46 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

Vintage Tournament Dartboard Set $279, Restoration Hardware

Popcorn Trolley $279.99, Sharper Image

Black Storage Ottoman $199.99, Wayfair.com

Matthew Square Throw Pillow $14.99, Bed Bath & Beyond September 2015 • athomemms.com | 47

48 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

September November 2015 2014 • athomemms.com | 49

technology

Tips for the Ultimate

Home Theater Experience TEXT By ScoTT FuElling, PrESidEnT, | PhoEniX unEqualEd homE EnTErTainmEnT

M

ost people watch TV in the living room, family room or a designated media room as well as in the kitchen and bedroom. A home theater room is different with unique characteristics. It’s a room that includes features to provide a comfortable atmosphere to enhance the enjoyment of the audio/video technology. This room should offer plenty of privacy and the best audio and visual experience possible. It’s all about comfort.

Acoustics. The home theater room should resemble a public movie theater — an enclosed, rectangular room with a good amount of space and virtually no outside light. To make interior surfaces “soft” and minimize disruptive echoes, cover walls with curtains or panels with acoustic material. For the same reason, the floor should be carpeted instead of wood, linoleum or other hard material. A thick Berber carpet with standard padding underneath is a good choice. An acoustic dropped ceiling is a necessity. For additional benefit, place the media storage cabinets in the rear so they will double as acoustic absorbers for sound waves bouncing around the back of the room.

The entry door is the weakest link in sound transmission.

Standard-grade interior doors can let sound filter into other parts of the house via gaps between the door and walls. Sound isolation material can be added to the door’s interior surface and special sound-blocking “weather stripping” placed in the door jamb gaps and on the door bottom.

Lighting is also a critical consideration in the home theater.

Forgo bright ambient light in the room, as it can cause glare on the screen and distract from the movie. Ditto for table lamps and fluorescents; opt for directional lighting instead. A completely dark room is undesirable because the high contrast of the light from the screen may strain the eyes. Ideally, a home theater should have soft ambient lighting connected to a dimmer. LED lighting looks ultra-cool and also sets the mood perfectly by changing the light intensity. Tiny blue LEDs close to the floor can highlight the pathways.

For a full theater experience, an automatic dimmer can be integrated into the audio/video system. When the movie starts, the lights will automatically go down to a preset level or can be regulated by a remote control.

Follow the interior color scheme of most public movie theaters with dark tones on the walls and ceilings. Choose flat, no-glare paint rather than gloss, semi-gloss or satin finishes.

If the theater room has windows, thick draperies can block out most of the incoming light. Motorized, remote-controlled shades and drapes which can be tied into the lighting control system are available through specialty manufacturers. Lights turn down, 50 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

drapes close, screen cover opens and the movie starts, all with the push of one button on the remote control. This functionality will impress your guests, who will dream of creating a home theater of their own.

When it comes to Seating Comfort, in smaller rooms a large sofa will be sufficient to provide a comfortable experience while viewing movies—no need to mimic the complete theater atmosphere. Luxurious theater couches, love seats and recliners with plenty of leg space will add to the room's comfort. Larger home theaters sometimes feature cinema-style stadium seating, with large armchairs provided for each guest.

Safety & Ergonomics. Ensure that all wires are hidden away in the proper manner to give the room a neat appearance and minimize tripping hazards in the dark.

Optimum Viewing Distance can be expressed simply as 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal width of the screen. That means you should sit no closer than 7.5 feet from a 60-inch wide screen, and no more than 12.5 feet away. This formula works in reverse, too. For example, if the viewing distance is eight feet, select the proper screen size. Eight feet equals 96 inches. Divide by two (an average between 1.5 and 2.5) and the result is 48 inches. So a good HDTV display for your viewing distance would be about 48 inches measured diagonally.

The best Viewing Height is to have the center of the display screen at eye level. If the screen center is elevated above the eye level, tilt the screen so that the center of the screen is directed back to eye level.

Gaming is special. If there’s a video gaming fan in the house it’s best to double up the theater room for gaming needs as well as viewing pleasure. All the extra gadgetry should be readily installed with extra audio and video ports including input and output.

Accessories can take the theater room above the ordinary and make it the talk of the town. Sconces, columns, light-up cup holders, armrests and power recliners can make the space truly unique. Add favorite movie posters to the walls, but not framed art with glass as the glass will reflect sound and light.

Old-fashioned popcorn machines and concession stands are popular accessories for the advanced theater room. So is theater-style furniture in the design of your favorite sports team.

Branding your home theater in your favorite team’s colors and logo is a great way to make the space your own.

With up-front planning, the home theater room will become the center for family enjoyment for years to come, providing memorable times for all.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 51

home trends

THE RIGHT LIGHTING IS

“ROOM JEWELRY” TEXT BY ROBIN TERRY, WEST TENNESSEE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PHOTOS COURTESY OF SETH’S LIGHTING AND ACCESSORIES

I

f you’re totally in the dark about what to do to renovate your home, then maybe it’s time to look at things in a whole new light.

Lighting is an extremely important design element, according to Seth Billings, owner of Seth’s Lighting & Accessories in Bartlett, a member of the West Tennessee Home Builders Association. “If a home isn’t properly lit, both inside and out, then you’re not going to be able to see any of the other design features,” he explains, “and if a home is dark, then it’s certainly not inviting.”

Updating lighting makes a huge difference in both the ambiance and functionality of a room, says Bob Meyers, sales manager at Graham’s Lighting Fixtures, another Home Builders Association member.

Both Billings and Meyers say consumers are often confused about LED bulbs, their cost and which ones to use in different applications. They regularly find homeowners using older incandescent bulbs in some fi xtures, LED bulbs in others and fluorescent lighting, as well. Because all of these types of bulbs provide different “hues” of light, mixing

52 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

different types of bulbs “really undermines the appearance of a room” Meyers says.

Fortunately, updating lighting can also be very cost effective, and if a homeowner uses LED bulbs, it can actually save money in the long run. For example, some LED bulbs are rated to provide 40,000 hours of use, compared to incandescent bulbs that project less than a year of use before needing to be replaced.

Billings says there have been vast improvements in LED bulbs since they were first introduced. Cost is down somewhat, and now, many look more like older incandescent bulbs without the coiled shape of earlier models. Meyers adds that many of these new LED bulbs fit well in older lamps and other fi xtures. Newer LED bulbs introduced by Phillips also may be dimmed to elicit the warm glow that homeowners prefer in side-table lamps. Recessed lighting fi xtures in any room can often be updated with new LED bulbs, as well.

“You’d be surprised at how much difference it can make to put LED bulbs in closets, pantries and kitchens,” Billings comments.

Homeowners living in older houses needn’t worry that using LED bulbs will seem out of place. In fact, Meyers reports that he’s noticing many owners of older homes making updates to improve lighting in kitchens and baths, and often choosing very modern styles to contrast with their home’s vintage aesthetic. Recently, he worked with a homeowner in Midtown who updated her kitchen with a modern, low-profile ceiling fan, combined with a monorail of directional LED lights.

“It looked very appropriate, but very unexpected, and the homeowner could not believe how much better lighting she achieved in her 1920s kitchen,” Meyers says.

Billings says homeowners are choosing smaller chandeliers for bedrooms and bathrooms to add a touch of elegance and “bling” to their home’s decor. Meyers agrees, adding that lighting can provide a bold statement in any room. In fact, many homeowners consider splurging on a fixture in the same way that they’d splurge on a unique art piece for their home. “It’s the piece that sets off a room—room jewelry,” Meyers maintains.

While interior lighting is important, both men remark that illumination is vital for a home’s exterior, both for safety and for improving appearance. Meyers says his company can work with a landscaper to include lighting as a new home is being built, or can update an existing home’s exterior lighting to highlight both the landscaping and the house itself. Billings adds that new styles of lighting fixtures designed specifically for outdoor use, including fans, can accent any home’s style, from traditional to modern. For example, outdoor fixtures may have the appearance of antique metal, but aren’t metal at all, which increases the fixture’s durability. Proper exterior lighting improves a home’s safety, “because someone up to no good is going to avoid light,” adds Meyers.

Updating a home’s lighting can be a simple matter of replacing old incandescent bulbs with new LEDs, or one that’s as elaborate as replacing all the lighting fixtures in any given room. However, it is a fix that can be accomplished gradually, one room or outdoor area at a time.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 53

visit this

TENNESSEE RIVER FRESHWATER

PEARL FARM & MUSEUM

A HIDDEN GEM IN WEST TENNESSEE TEXT BY CLAIRE PEELER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TENNESSEE RIVER FRESHWATER PEARL FARM & MUSEUM

Mikado - Photo courtesy of Natchez Festival of Music 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

D

uring autumn Memphians always find themselves heading east for football games, fall break or just a weekend retreat. What most folks do not realize is there are unseen treasures along the way. Nestled next to Kentucky Lake, a hidden gem lies waiting to be discovered at Birdsong Resort and Marina. The Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm & Museum holds the long history of a local jewel.

Birdsong Resort and Marina is located between Memphis and Nashville in the quiet town of Camden. Just nine miles north of Exit 133 on Interstate 40, it’s an ideal stop for any traveler looking for an adventure. It is the only freshwater pearl culturing farm in North America.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 55

visit this

”

THE

only FRESHWATER

PEARL CULTURING FARM IN NORTH AMERICA”

56 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

visit this

The museum exposes interesting information about Tennessee’s official state gem through exhibits on freshwater pearl and mussel manufacturing, an illustration of pearl culturing and a short film.

Visitors can view the farm where the pearls are cultivated in the Tennessee River and purchase jewelry from around the world at the Freshwater Pearl Jewelry Showroom.

The jewelry showroom is open seven days a week, year round. The museum’s tours are self-guided, but helpful staff members are eager to answer any questions visitors might have along the way. Groups of 15 or more receive guided tours that include a lesson with a local diver who explains the different types of mussels located in the Tennessee River, a viewing of the “shucking” of a mussel, and a catered lunch.

Birdsong Resort and Marina offers an array of other activities including fishing, hunting and boat and cottage rentals. Several area campgrounds provide the chance to enjoy a night out in the cool autumn weather.

Whether it’s a day trip or a quick stop on the way east, the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm & Museum is an experience you cannot miss.

For further information to help plan your trip to the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm & Museum, please visit www.tennesseeriverpearls.com.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 57

getaway

Natchez,

MISSISSIPPI A Charming Southern Town TEXT by VisiT NaTchEz | PhoTograPhy by KEN MurPhy

P

eople have been flocking to Natchez— the oldest permanent settlement on the Mississippi River—for years to tour perfectly preserved antebellum homes and attend one-of-a-kind festivals. The area’s history has always been a lure for travelers, and rightly so; Natchez has over 1,000 structures on the National Register of Historic Places.

But these days, the town dubbed the “Biscuit Capital of the World” and “Bed and Breakfast Capital of the South” has so much more to offer. Come and experience why Natchez was recently named one of the “Top Ten Best Southern Small Towns,” by USA Today, and ranked the 22nd “Best Small City in America” in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

This antebellum jewel is no longer strictly for history buffs. Foodies, families, adventure enthusiasts and young

58 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

professionals are discovering their new favorite destination due to the town’s ever-growing list of events and attractions.

Natchez is revered by libation lovers, boasting a winery, a distillery and a brewery. That’s right, Natchez makes its own rum, wine, beer and margarita mix! Stop by Fat Mama’s Tamales to enjoy their infamous “Knock You Naked” margaritas, or visit several restaurants in town to taste Natchez Brewing Company’s Bluff City Blonde Ale. Charboneau Rum Distillery and Old South Winery offer tours and tastings, as well. Make sure you find time to pop in D’evereux Foods and grab one—or more—of their delicious flavors of hot sauce to mix in your Bloody Marys!

Its Mississippi River location makes Natchez the ideal spot for outdoor adventures. Thanks to the river and several nearby lakes, fishing, swimming, kayaking and boating are

Photo courtesy of Visit Natchez

second nature to the community and easily accessible to the visitor. If you’d rather not get wet, birding, hunting, hiking and biking are a few other options.

Mississippi is known as the Birthplace of America’s Music, and music is a huge part of life in Natchez, a destination of the Americana Music Triangle. It is easy to find live music here almost any night of the week. Special events throughout the year pay homage to music of various genres. Visit www.visitnatchez.org for the latest information on all of the events and activities in the region.

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getaway

The Chattanoogan Hotel

”

THIS

antebellum JEWEL

IS NO LONGER STRICTLY FOR HISTORY BUFFS.”

The Mikado - Photo courtesy of Natchez Festival of Music 60 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

The historic city also provides an excellent mix of thrills and entertainment through a variety of annual festivals and events. The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, October 16-18, is one of the most colorful, spectacular events of the year. Hot-air balloons fill the skies all weekend long as local and national groups fill the air with live music on the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.

Another great event is RiverStock Music Fest, which is held annually in April. This day of music, activities and fun for the entire community has featured such musical talent as Deana Carter, Steve Azar and Lonestar. To keep the rhythm flowing, live music is provided at a wide variety of locations throughout the city. The excitement continues with the Natchez Festival of Music around the month of May, and the Spring and Fall Pilgrimages, which draw tens of thousands of people from around the world to experience firsthand the beauty of the city’s landscape, its majestic architecture, the breadth and depth of its history, and the warmth and conviviality of the hospitable community.

There will be no better time to experience all Natchez has to offer than in 2016, when the town will celebrate its 300th birthday. Established in 1716 by the French, the waterfront treasure trove of history has big plans for next year and beyond. Its tricentennial anniversary will kick off three years of celebration—2017 will mark the bicentennial for the State of Mississippi and 2018 will be the Tricentennial for New Orleans, the town’s river-city neighbor to the south.

Mark your calendar for several trips to the year-long celebration Natchez has planned for 2016. The town promises new and exciting surprises, and the annual events will be stepped up a notch. It promises to be a party that only 300 years can create.

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 61

travel

NO PASS P ORT S R E QU IR E D…

W ELCOME TO THE U.S . V I R GI N I S L AN D S TEXT BY BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TRAVEL LEADERS

T

he beauty of St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas gives visitors every opportunity to create their own idea of paradise. White-sand beaches inspire relaxation, the steady trade winds keep the average temperatures at 80 degrees and the diversity of the islands provides something for everyone. But the best part is that because the islands are a territory of the United States, NO PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED! Each of the three islands has a unique character all its own.

St. Croix’s Danish influence is perfect for visitors who prefer a laid-back experience. The streets of the island’s historic towns

62 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

of Frederiksted and Christiansted are lined with quaint shops, charming pastel buildings and refreshing cultural diversity.

From horseback riding near the 18th-century sugar mills to playing golf on one of the island’s three scenic courses, St. Croix provides a wide range of activities.

Two-thirds of St. John is a national park. Beaches such as Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Salt Pond Bay give the island world-renowned status. Nature enthusiasts will love the many hiking trails with breathtaking views that St. John has to offer!

St. Thomas boasts one of the most beautiful harbors in the world and because of this, it is among the most visited ports in

the Caribbean. Downtown in St. Thomas Charlotte Amalie offers elegant dining, exciting nightlife, duty-free shopping and even submarine rides. It’s a place full of energy and with some of the most stunning views of the Caribbean from 1,500 feet above sea level.

The islands have much to offer beyond the traditional beach vacation. Visitors wishing to immerse themselves in a profound cultural experience can enjoy historical tours, culinary encounters, artisan fairs, parades, storytelling and other special presentations.

Walking tours in St. Thomas and St. Croix highlight the diverse architecture and evidence of nations that colonized the islands in the 17th and 18th centuries. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk one of the many street steps, the most famous of which is the 99 steps on St. Thomas, a common way of getting to higher ground.

History buffs will enjoy a cultural journey and a look at the life and creations of artisans and craftsmen who earned a living making functional and decorative pieces. With restored great houses now serving as museums, (like the Haagenson House on St. Thomas and the Whim Museum on St. Croix), these

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travel

Yacht Haven Grande

islands preserve their past by displaying masterfully created mahogany pieces, delicate linens and original art. Local craft cooperatives, art galleries and artist colonies present the works of today’s tradition-bearers. The Annaberg Plantation Ruins in St. John’s National Park offers daily cultural demonstrations including cooking the old-fashioned way – in a coal pot over an open flame.

SHOP, SHOP, SHOP The Virgin Islands have been a “shopping” destination since 1607. Before arriving in present-day Virginia, the first settlers to Jamestown used to stop here to stock up on supplies. Today’s visitors discover unique products on each island and can spend up to $1,600 duty-free and with no sales tax.

One of the top places to shop in St. Thomas is the Yacht Haven Grande, a chic center for luxury goods. Amidst the palm trees and panoramic views of the harbor lie exclusive boutiques such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari and Salvatore Ferragamo.

Havensight Mall is a one-stop destination on St. Thomas with over 100 stores and businesses, including many restaurants and bars. It’s also home to the cruise ports.

Other popular shopping destinations are Red Hook, the Town of Christiansted, Mongoose Junction and Wharfside Village.

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Water, Water everyWhere…

The U.S. Virgin Islands are the only U.S. territory that is bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. With all that water, it’s only natural to find many beautiful beaches, not to mention endless water activities like parasailing and kiteboarding, snorkeling and diving. The turquoise waters are filled with exotic creatures and colorful marine life, breathtaking corals and untouched shipwrecks.

Some of the best diving in the U.S. Virgin Islands is at Cane Bay along the wall that runs parallel to the North Shore of St. Croix, popular because of its easy access from both the beach and boats. The wall starts at 60 feet

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 65

travel

Cruz Bay of St. John

and goes down 2,000 feet. Schools of durgon, reef sharks and stingrays are commonly seen there and some lucky divers spot seahorses in the area.

Carnival Rock is known for its dramatic and beautiful rock formations loaded with a rainbow-like assortment of corals, sponges and gorgonians. At the base of the rocks, a passageway leads to the other side of the rock where divers might catch a glimpse of a dozen or so shiny tarpon feeding on schools of silversides.

The Wreck of the WIT Shoal II is located in 90 feet of water off the southwest coast of St. Thomas. The 328-foot WIT Shoal II was once an armed military cargo ship designed to transport and land up to 20 tanks during World War II. There are five levels to explore and a variety of entries and exits.

OTHER THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLANDS… Legendary rum brands Cruzan and Captain Morgan are both produced in the Virgin Islands. Visitors can visit the local distilleries and learn the secrets of some of the finest rums in the world. Be sure and go to Diageo’s Welcome Center at the Captain Morgan distillery on St. Croix for tastings of the celebrated spirit.

The islands are also known for their many hiking trails, acres and acres of underwater national parkland, the best snorkeling in the Caribbean and stunning Mahogany Run Golf Course Annaberg Plantation Ruins 66 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

golf courses like Mahogany Run, where the 16th, 17th and 18th holes are so challenging that anyone who plays all three without a penalty stroke is awarded an “I survived the Devil’s Triangle” certificate. The St. Croix triathlon attracts competitors from every corner of the world and is nicknamed “beauty and the beast” by those who have faced the course’s daunting hills.

GettinG around You can rent a car or get a taxi to see one of the islands, or if you want to travel back and forth between the islands, take a ferry or sea plane.

Traveling by bus is another option.

Each individual island offers public

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travel

St. Thomas

transportation that’s affordable but not necessarily reliable.

Vitran buses circulate on St. Thomas and St. John, connecting their respective tourist attractions. On St. Croix, buses run between Christiansted and Frederiksted approximately every two hours (no service on Sundays) with stops at popular shopping centers and tourist sites.

Taxis in downtown Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, or by the docks in St. John and St. Croix are a great way to move around an island. Drivers will stop at all the major tourist sites, but beware: the cabs aren’t metered, so negotiate your fare before accepting the ride.

TRAVELING BETWEEN THE ISLANDS Taking a ferry boat is an affordable way to travel among the U.S. Virgin Islands or to day trip to the British Virgin Islands. Boats frequently leave from the Red Hook dock in St. Thomas heading to Cruz Bay, St. John or Tortola, BVI, and there’s usually a daily charter that shuttles between St. Thomas and Virgin Gorda or Jost Van Dyke, BVI. Note that you cannot take a ferry from St. Thomas to St. Croix, as service has been suspended. Schedules for all inter-island ferries change, so contact the companies directly for times.

Note: Travel to the British Virgin Islands requires a passport.

The way to reach St. Croix from St. Thomas is by splurging for the Seaborne Airlines sea plane, which also has routes to the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Schedules and prices vary; check with your hotel so they can assist you on the sea plane daily flights.

68 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

A TRIO OF FANTASTIC CARNIVALS & FESTIVALS Three times a year it’s party time in the U.S. Virgin Islands, complete with food, drink, music and masquerading. St. Croix’s Christmas Festival takes place in December, St. Thomas’s Carnival culminates in the final week of April, and the St. John’s Festival begins in June and runs through the Fourth of July week.

There is a reason why people have been sailing these shores since 1493…with the year-round warm weather and so many islands and cays in close proximity, island hopping is easy and fun. The USVI offers many full-service marinas, providing everything from water and power to designer shopping, fine dining, provisioning, fuel and repairs as well as yacht clubs and sailing schools.

EASE OF ACCESS The U.S. Virgin Islands are just a short plane ride away; 3.5 hours from Atlanta and 2.5 hours from Miami. English is the primary language and the U.S. dollar is the official currency.

This year marks Travel Leaders’ 30th anniversary in business. For more information on traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands or anywhere else, call the travel professionals at Travel Leaders at 901.377.6600 or come by the office located at 2765 Wolf Creek Parkway, Ste. 104 (next door to David’s Bridal).

September 2015 • athomemms.com | 69

social

Kirk Williams & Katherine Bennett with Buster’s

Alisa Cunningham with Frost Bake Shop

THE ORPHEUM THEATRE

Backstage Bash

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE HANSEN

T

he Orpheum Theatre in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, hosted the second annual Backstage Bash, which gave guests the “star’s view” of the facility, the theatre’s iconic stage and access to the Orpheum’s celebrated collection of murals painted by Broadway touring casts. “Memphis loves great food, great music and great experiences,” says Orpheum President & CEO Pat Halloran. “That’s exactly what the Backstage Bash has to offer, but we’re taking it to

70 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

the next level: we’re giving guests a chance to enjoy a side of the Orpheum that most theatregoers never get to see!” Attendees entered through the famous Stage Door on Beale Street, and experienced life behind the scenes while enjoying delicious Memphis eats from Central BBQ and Hard Rock Café, local craft beer, desserts from Frost Bake Shop, and a specialty cocktail from Buster’s Liquors & Wines. Proceeds from the Backstage Bash will support the Orpheum’s education programs.

social

Anita & Kathryn Mitchell

Richard & Karen Hall

The Super 5

Ashley & Daniel Smith September 2015 • athomemms.com | 71

social

Jenny Hurt & Morgan White

Emcee Brad Carson from Entercom & Self-Advocate Speaker Rachel Mast from SRVS Kids & Families

Missy Marshall & Bob Blankenship

1 7 T H ANNUAL

SPIRIT OF SRVS

AUCTION, WINE AND FOOD TASTING

T

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SRVS ARCHIVES

he 2015 Spirit of SRVS Auction, Wine and Food Tasting, presented by Sedgwick, was held August 1 at the Hilton in East Memphis. The premier citywide auction event included hundreds of silent auction items, a live auction, wine tastings from around the world and food from Memphis’ finest restaurants including Mortimer’s, Hog Wild Catering, Central BBQ, DejaVu, Off the Square, Lucchesi’s Ravioli and Pasta Co., and many more. Guest artist Lisa Dick’s painting “Making the World a Bigger Place,” was

72 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2015

auctioned as the event’s commemorative artwork.

Missy Marshall and Bob Blankenship served as co-chairs, and Joanie and Michael Lightman were honorary chairs.

Proceeds from the event will benefit SRVS and more than 1,000 children and adults with disabilities. SRVS is a United Way of the Mid-South agency and the only comprehensive service provider for people with disabilities in Shelby County offering a wide range of programs from birth throughout life.

social

Dewonda & Latisha Bates, Darna Davis, Kyle Flake & CJ Gay

Russ & Cindy Mire

Russ & Cindy Mire, Ginny Ocequera, Jacqueline Bates & Lorraine Ford September 2015 • athomemms.com | 73

experience this

SHELBY FARMS TEXT BY KATIE BREYER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHELBY FARMS PARK CONSERVANCY

I

t’s a breezy day as you walk through wooded trails, enjoying a peaceful retreat from the hustle of a noisy city. Or maybe you’ve come to bike, play disc golf, ride a horse or even zip line. From adventurous to observer, it doesn’t matter what your desired level of activity is as long as you enjoy being outdoors. We’re talking about Shelby Farms, and if you live in the Mid South you’ve probably been there. If you haven’t, it’s time you discovered 45,346 square feet of natural wonder, full of activities for all ages.

Many remember the park being in the news years ago when its existence was threatened by commercial development.

Thankfully, that didn’t happen, and now Shelby Farms makes headlines with its long list of improvements. The Shelby Farms Conservancy continues to add attractions within and around, always striving to improve the urban oasis. Everything they do is focused around preserving, enhancing and causing as little harm to the ecosystem of the area as possible.

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Three elements of the park’s extensive master plan have already rolled out: the Greenline, the Wolf River Pedestrian Bridge and the Woodland Discovery Playground. The Shelby Farms Greenline connects various neighborhoods to green space, encouraging and making it easy for people to get active, and the Wolf River Bridge connects Shelby Farms to the Wolf River trails. The new playground is quite impressive, putting an innovative, relatively urban twist to common amenities.

If you’ve cut through the park via Farm Road recently, you’ve probably noticed that the lake and buffalo are absent. While the buffalo are safe and shaded in another area of the park, Patriot Lake is undergoing a major expansion as part of the “Heart of the Park” initiative, now in the second of four phases.

“Upon robust public engagement, the common thread that kept being presented is the love for our landscape. More amenities, such as restrooms and a facility to purchase food and other necessities, were requested…but to add these without

tainting the landscape,” says Cameron Mann, Shelby Farms’ development manager.

Patriot Lake already had a parking pad and was a common gathering area, so the decision to expand there was a suitable and minimally damaging one.

The plan calls for increasing the lake’s size significantly. At nearly 80 acres, the larger Patriot Lake will be a “gathering place for health and recreation, relaxation and big water adventure.” The project is progressing quickly. Park visitors this fall will notice more landscaping around the northwest part of the new lake, as well as the steel frame for the new visitor center and the foundation for a lakeside restaurant building.

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experience this

The park is alive and well in the midst of its renovations.

Familiar amenities blend with new offerings to provide fun for all ages.

THE GO APE TREETOP ADVENTURE COURSE A bold addition to Shelby Farms, completed this spring, allows guests to swing from tree tops, complete obstacles, and zip line through the trees. Plan an adventure here in September or October, before the course closes for the winter season.

THE GREENLINE Biking, walking and jogging are much more enjoyable in the fall when you’re not drenched in sticky summertime sweat. If you don’t own a bike, you can rent one at the corner of Farm Road and Mullins Station. Something go awry during your ride? Utilize the new bike repair stations that were added along the path. The Greenline will stretch more than 11 miles once the recently announced Cordova extension is completed next year.

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THE OUTBACK DOG PARK Man’s best friend can join in on the fun at The Outback.

Acres of open spaces, two lakes and off-leash trails provide plenty of socialization for dogs and their owners.

DISC GOLF Players have been majorly impressed with this 18-hole course. If you don’t have your own discs, you can purchase some and get free score sheets with a map of the course from The Boathouse.

THE STABLES The management running the stables does a fantastic job of keeping Shelby Farms’ horses healthy and happy. Now that the extreme heat is behind us, the horses are ready to get out and guide you into the sunset. Check out their website, shelbyfarmsstables.com, for ride times and reserve ahead.

In addition to providing area residents free access to one of the nation’s largest urban parks, Shelby Farms’ staff plans special events regularly with something going on almost every week.

Upcoming EvEnts: Zombie 5K, October 3 Greenline Half Marathon, October 11 Spooky Nights, every Friday & Saturday in October Zombie Paintball Zombie Laser Tag Headless Horseman Hayrides Nocturnal Nature Hikes (great for children) These and many other activities contribute to Shelby Farms’ glowing reviews. The park has been described as “an outdoor paradise,” “the greatest place in Memphis” and “possibly the best thing to ever happen in the city.” Visit shelbyfarmspark.org to learn more and plan your outdoorsy get-away, sure to deliver lots of smiles.

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entertaining arts

Belinda Carlisle

Matthew hasty

a 19th-Century style Painter living in the 21st Century TexT by Morgan PruiTT | PhoTos CourTesy of MaTThew hasTy

M

atthew Hasty, a native Memphian, finds the beauty in simple Southern settings and landscapes, and portrays them in his artwork.

He says, “I try to make honest work that I feel passionate about, and I think that is what people respond to.”

Hasty began painting before he could even remember. His mother is an artist, and Hasty would explore through her supplies as a child. She shared her love for art with her son by taking him to museum shows wherever they lived at the time.

Seeing a painting by Henri Matisse at a Post-Impressionist show at the Kimbell Art Museum in Ft. Worth, Texas, is one of Hasty’s earliest memories of the art world and has inspired him throughout his career.

In 1993, Hasty received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Ringling School of Art and Design in Florida. However, it wasn’t until after school that he began taking his art seriously.

In the late 90s, his friend and fellow artist David Mah opened a gallery, and Hasty began showing his art there. It was then that his landscape pieces gained traction. “Up until that point, my work was all over the place,” Hasty says. “I hadn’t found a particular style or voice.”

Hasty ventured to New York to participate in the art scene, but eventually found his way back to his hometown. To him, Memphis is home. He states, “I feel like when I came back to Memphis, I had a reaction to the sky. Memphis receives a lot of moisture, which makes for great clouds, and therefore, great sunsets and sunrises.”

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Hasty works mostly on canvas, though he has painted on many surfaces in the past. His favorite paint to use is Williamsburg Oil Paints, but he frequently uses Old Holland Oil Paints and Gamblin Oil Paints.

He also enjoys other forms of artistic expression, such as wood carving, water gilded carving, filmmaking, printmaking and music. “The difficulty is finding the time to squeeze one more pursuit into the mix—I need another head and six more hands,” Hasty says.

When speaking of artists who inspire him, Hasty fondly mentions Dutch master Rembrandt because, “Rembrandt made paint do magical things. His pieces are stunning objects to behold.” Hasty also credits mostly realist painters from the 19th century.

Ultimately, Hasty wants his art to make viewers feel peaceful.

“I don’t have a huge message to convey. I just want people to notice the world we live in and some beauty where it is ever so fleeting.”

Hasty’s work can be found in Memphis’s L Ross Gallery, Nashville’s Bennett Galleries, the Brown Fine Art Gallery in Jackson, Mississippi, and the Justus Fine Art Gallery in Hot Springs, Arkansas. His paintings typically range in price from $1,000 to $15,000.

For more information on Hasty and his art, visit www.matthewhasty.com.

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entertaining

It’s Game

tIme!

"kicking off" the football weekend in oxford, MS TexT by LesLey Harris CoLveTT | sTyLisT angeLa MazanTi PHoTograPHy by LeiLani evans wiTH eLsy PHoTograPHy

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entertaining

” Southern

Ole Miss Meets vintage flair”

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E

vent designer Angela Mazanti set the scene for a whimsical dinner party to celebrate back to school and the greatly anticipated upcoming Rebel football games.

The InspIraTIon The inspiration was all things collegiate—Ole Miss meets Southern vintage flair. “I took my inspiration from the gorgeous backdrop, Oxford’s original bus depot. It has since been turned into a rentable weekend getaway space decorated using vintage furniture that was lovingly curated by the owners since they purchased it in 1972, and original bus depot signage and pictures,” Mazanti says. seT The scene Mazanti set the scene for this dinner party by working with the beautiful furnishings that were already in place. She played on the pops of red and blue throughout the space, from the blue antique rug and upholstered chairs to the striking red designer pillows on the couches.

Décor “I didn’t want to cover the beautiful vintage Duncan Phyfe table with a linen, so I decided to use a runner of fresh magnolia leaves. I can’t imagine anything more Southern than that. I also wanted to keep it pretty casual.

I inserted loose red rose stems into the magnolia leaves to add a pop of Rebel red and I used red mercury votive holders to float candles. I took ordinary plastic charger plates and spray painted them Rebel blue to coordinate with the red linen napkins and the burlap napkin rings that had red, white and blue polka dots on them. I used blue wine bottles to hold white taper candles,” she says.

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entertaining

MENU Antipasta platter Marinated feta and watermelon Dinner by Ziparo's Catering: The Caesar Salad Lasagna Bolognese Garlic Bread Tiramisu

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Mazanti kept the flowers simple and casual in line with the tone of this dinner party: bunches of red Gladiolas in blue vases and clusters of red roses in pewter trophy vases on the mantle, accented with loose magnolia branches. “I used a large, modern, white vase with simple branches and hung small vases with stems of red roses for just a pop of red, and completed the Rebel color scheme with dried blue hydrangea stems around the neck of the vase,” Mazanti says.

Host Your own Mazanti says that a reader could host their own indoor tailgating dinner by getting crafty with their team colors in simple ways like she did. “You can get colored napkins from any discount store, and use coordinating ribbon or burlap to create custom napkin rings. You could also use ordinary plastic charger plates and decorate them according to your favorite team’s colors. Use fresh and simple flowers and foliage that you can easily get from your backyard and grocery store. Don’t overthink it—keep it simple so that it is fun and stress free for you,” Mazanti advises.

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in the kitchen

WINNING

Weeknight RECIPES

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL MCKINNEY

S

eptember means back to school and schedules, but that doesn’t mean we have to forfeit good eats. Mealtimes can get complicated this time of year, so I have two recipes that will be quick and easy for those busy weeknights.

The first is Jambalaya, which has become a staple for my family. There are only three steps in this recipe, because it is mostly hands off. Throw everything in the pot, let the flavors come together, and 20 minutes later you have something the whole family will love! Serve this in big serving bowls on its own or with a side of stewed okra and tomatoes for a true Cajun supper. Either way, everyone will be full and happy after a bowl of this goodness.

Now, we all have to have something sweet after dinner, or is it just me? If you can relate, then these shortbread cookies are perfect!

The dough can stay rolled up in the freezer until you’re ready to bake a few for an after-dinner treat. Simply slice off the number of cookies you want, still frozen, and bake them up. These are also fun to get creative with. Top them with a chocolate ganache or add some lime zest to the dough and serve them with a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Dressed up or down, you can’t go wrong with these old-fashioned cookies!

For more weeknight recipes visit www.AprilMcKinney.com.

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WEEKNIGHT JAMBALAYA SERVES 4-6

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 1 cup white rice • 1 red bell pepper, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced • ½ tsp. oregano • 6 oz. Andouille sausage, sliced • 2 medium uncooked chicken breasts, cubed • 1 tsp. creole seasoning • ¾ tsp. salt • 1 bay leaf • ½ tsp. black pepper • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste • 1 can diced tomatoes • 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth DIRECTIONS:

1. Drizzle the oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add the onion, bell pepper, garlic and sausage. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 6-8 minutes.

2. Add in the chicken, seasonings, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, rice and chicken broth.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and serve!

EASIEST FREEZER SHORTBREAD COOKIES MAKES ABOUT 2 DOZEN COOKIES

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup butter, softened • 1/2 cup brown sugar • 2 cups all-purpose flour • ¾ tsp. salt • ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted* DIRECTIONS:

1. Cream together the butter and brown sugar.

2. Mix in the flour and salt until well combined.

3. Lastly, stir in the almonds.

4. Roll the dough into 2 logs about 2 inches in diameter and roll them in wax paper.

5. Chill the dough rolls in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or freeze them.

6. When you’re ready to bake cookies, cut rolls in 1/4-inch slices and bake for 10-12 minutes at 350˚. *To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toss them every couple of minutes for 6-8 minutes until they begin to smell nutty and look slightly brown. Remove from the heat and allow them to cool.

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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

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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 September 2015 • athomemms.com | 93

happy hour

WATERMELON SAZERAC RECIPE COURTESY OF THE GROVE GRILL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUZIE HANSEN

INGREDIENTS: • 1.5 oz. James Oliver Oregon Rye • Splash watermelon simple syrup • 2-3 dashes lemon bitters • Green Chartreuse • Frozen watermelon cubes

DIRECTIONS: 1. Rinse a martini glass with a few drops of Chartreuse.

2. Pour the Chartreuse out and fill the glass with watermelon cubes.

3. In a shaker, combine rye, simple syrup and lemon bitters with ice; shake.

4. Strain over watermelon cubes and enjoy!

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sources

MARKETPLACE

18 | HealtHy you Special thanks to – Shannon Leeke, Marketing Manager, Ultimate Foods Nick Harmeier, Owner, Ultimate Foods

28 | at HoMe WItH Special thanks to – Cheryl Pesce

30 | HoMe Special thanks to – Homeowner Bob Bond Landscape Designer and Gardner Karen Davenport, of Kaja Farms of Denmark, Tennessee Garden terrace and fieldhouse stonework: Bond Christie of Christie Cut Stone Company of Arlington, TN Terrace fountain and garden statue: Mindy and Frank Roberts, Palladio Garden (formerly Memphis Waterworks) of Memphis, TN Design and construction of the Fieldhouse: Chad Simpson of Simpson Construction of Brownsville, TN

40 | DeSIGN Special thanks to – Scott Fuelling, President, Phoenix Unequaled Home Entertainment, Special thanks to – Tammi and Dr. Randi Frazier

52 | HoMe tReNDS Special thanks to – Robin Terry, West Tennessee Home Builders Association

62 | tRavel Special thanks to – Barbara May, Owner of Travel Leaders

74 | eXPeRIeNce tHIS shelbyfarmspark.org shelbyfarmsstables.com

82 | eNteRtaINING Special thanks to – Ziparo’s Catering, www.ziparos.com Special thanks to – Angela Mazanti, angelamazantidesign.com Leilani Evans, Elsy Photography.

Historic Oxford Square Bus Station (662) 607-5019

92 | DINING out Special thanks to – The Skybox Grill and Bar, theskyboxgrilltn.com

94 | HaPPy HouR The Grove Grill, thegrovegrill.com

98 | oN a GooD Note wingscancerfoundation.org/polo

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on a good note

Polo ClassiC helPs Wings

sPread 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 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 Mid South 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. Wings Cancer Foundation will hold its annual "Ride to Rosemary" October 3rd - 7th.

For information on the Wings Polo Classic, to buy tickets or to donate, please visit wingscancerfoundation.org/polo or call 901.322.2984.