Memphis Magazine's 2013 Women Empowered

Women Empowered WOMEN ARE EMPOWERED, through their work, creativity, their dedication and their ability to transform our community.

On the pages that follow you will find images and profiles of women who are making an impact in the greater Memphis area. We salute these incredible women for their many contributions and achievements.

PRIMARY PHOTOGRAPHER: SKIPWORTH BEAUTY NOTE: MAKEUP BY GOULD’S AND ADEL AMOR

Margie Neal, Advertising Production Manager; Penelope Huston, Advertising Director; Joy Bateman, Senior Account Executive; Shaina Guttman, Account Executive; Sloane Taylor, Senior Account Executive MEMPHIS MAGAZINE

Llana Y. Smith Owner

BROADWAY TRAVEL

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lana Smith has owned Broadway Travel in West Memphis, Arkansas, for 24 years now. Having kept her business alive after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 — which according to Smith was her toughest business decision — Smith recently became the first woman President of Skal International USA, a national committee of 2,500 U.S. professionals in travel and tourism. Devoted to West Memphis, but with an eye for travel far and wide, Smith relishes every opportunity to share the cultural enrichment of new places and foreign lands. “I always strive to bring value to the travel-buying process. I call it my intellectual property. It can’t be duplicated by a web site.” Llana’s favorite pastime: watching football! %!34 "2/!$7!9 s 7%34 -%-0()3 !2+!.3!3 "9 !00/).4-%.4

Ann Caraway, CTC Co-Owner AIR/SEA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

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ative Memphian Ann Caraway has a yen for the unknown. Being the owner of a travel agency, there are few parts of the world that she has not seen or visited.

Caraway it seems was born into the travel business. She got an early start, having traveled the world as a young person with her parents. These early journeys set her on her course for a lifetime.

She has been in the travel business for 35 years, has spent her entire career with only one firm, Air/Sea Travel International, Inc. In today’s world, that in itself is a record. She is a graduate of Overton High School and has attended Northwest Mississippi College and the University of Memphis. Having decided at an early age that the travel business was her lifetime career, she began working as a “Junior Advisor” in 1978. Nine years later, she received the professional “Certified Travel Counselor” certification, and later obtained her “Destination Specialist “ designation for The Caribbean, South Pacific, and Western Europe, as well as The South African Fundi Program. In 2009 she became co-owner of Air/Sea International Travel, Inc., with Ginger Wolfe and Suzanne Adams.

Air/Sea International Travel, a Virtuoso Affiliate is a boutique agency located in Germantown, Tennessee, specializing in Luxury Leisure Travel.

AIR/SEA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL, INC A VIRTUOSO AGENCY 7846 FARMINGTON BLVD. GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 (901) 763-2033 (O) (901) 759-1802 (F) ANN@AIRSEATRVL.COM

Carrie Evans Hanlon Realtor HOBSON REALTORS

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emphis has made me the person I am today. My family moved here when I was 3 and Memphis is still “home.” I graduated from St. Mary’s Episcopal School, which prepared me for every challenge I’ve encountered and gave me lifelong friends. I went to SMU for college and thought I would never come home. Unexpectedly, Memphis offered me the best job opportunities. I worked for Makowski Ringel Greenberg, American Home Shield, and Merrill Lynch before taking a job on Merrill Lynch's bond-trading floor in NYC. I thought I had left Memphis for good, but I was offered a job back home with FTN Financial. My dad described it "as the most economical decision for the family” — I believe he just wanted me to come home. Memphis provided me with a great foundation and continues to take good care of me. I have the opportunity to return the favor by working with several nonprofits: Advance Memphis (helping train adults for employment), United Housing (assisting local homebuyers), Memphis Heritage (preserving our city's architectural integrity) and the Children’s Museum of Memphis, which entertains and educates our little ones. Today, I am a mom of 4-year-old James & I work for Hobson Realtors. I love what I do: being a mom and working with friends as they make Memphis home. I am thankful for all that Memphis offers me, my friends and family.

(901) 312-2947 (O) (901) 488-9680 (C) (901) 761-1622 (901) 761-7810 (F) CEHANLON@HOBSONREALTORS.COM HOBSONREALTORS.COM SPECIAL PROMOTION

Sherie Whirl, Latisha Robertson, & Beth Nelson Sherie Whirl, Sr. Director, Government Contracts; Latisha Robertson, Sr. Director, Operations Support; Beth Nelson, Sr. Director, Community Services MEMPHIS GOODWILL, INC.

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xpertise. Commitment. Heart. These words describe this dynamic trio from Memphis Goodwill, Inc. Each woman lives her passion for service as she works with community partners to change lives through jobs training and employment. Their goal is to open doors of opportunity for those facing special challenges or job barriers.

Sherie Whirl (20 years’ management experience, Concordia University) oversees Goodwill janitorial and groundskeeping employees placed in federal and state government offices and facilities. About 78% of this workforce have a declared disability, and are among our most loyal and committed workers.

Latisha Robertson (B.A. Criminal Justice, University of Memphis; M.A. Education, University of Phoenix) manages service quality monitoring, continuous improvement planning and employee training with all of Goodwill’s commercial business and government clients.

Beth Nelson (B.S. Sociology, University of Memphis) directs Goodwill’s Vocational Rehabilitation Center and develops new programs that serve individuals and companies with special jobs training and service needs.

They all agree that helping to move barriers to employment is hard work, but they embrace the challenge. “It is awesome to know that by lifting up each individual, we are helping to lift up our entire community.”

GOODWILLMEMPHIS.ORG

Trina Jones & Tameka Bonds Trina Jones, Sr. Director, Marketing & Communications; Tameka Bonds, Director, Human Resources MEMPHIS GOODWILL, INC.

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ost people know about Goodwill stores and attended donation centers, but there’s so much more to the mission and goals of Memphis Goodwill.

Tameka Bonds and Trina Jones work to expand the community’s knowledge of Goodwill in two specific ways: hiring and retaining the right people and sharing the company’s story with clients, customers and donors. Tameka (B.S. Professional Studies, University of Memphis), oversees hiring, training, benefits and employee relations programs for Memphis Goodwill, supporting more than 530 employees in Shelby, Fayette and Tipton counties. Trina (B.S. Journalism, MTSU; M.S. Operations Management, University of Arkansas) directs initiatives to share Memphis Goodwill’s aims and successes through advertising, media coverage, online/social media, business-to-business marketing and community events and outreach.

Memphis Goodwill’s business is changing lives through training and employment programs. It’s a mission and message we are proud to share.

GOODWILLMEMPHIS.ORG

Kathe Stewart Chief Operations Officer and Co-Owner PRECISION AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING, LLC

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he world is changing faster today than when our parents founded Precision 40 years ago.

Our over-scheduled, technology-centered, shortcut world often leaves people starving for the "personal touch" of a company they can trust.

When seeking services for my home, I value safety, integrity, expertise, professionalism, trustworthiness, compassion, and respect for my family and property. Precision was built on these values and our entire team shares them. Due to our stringent hiring requirements, only one person out of every 300 who apply meets our standards. We will never apologize for being "too careful" about who we allow in your home.

Because we serve many families (mine too) with allergies, asthma, and other indoor airquality needs, we only hire non-smokers. We also drug test, perform the industry's most extensive background checks, and never hire subcontractors to perform our work. Continuous training is part of our DNA, so our expertise is unparalleled.

We aren't just about heating and cooling anymore.

In the past decade we've added home energy audits, blower door testing, thermal camera imaging, insulation, water heaters, advanced whole-house diagnostics, solutions for uncomfortable homes, and life-enhancing indoor-air capabilities.

People invite Precision into their homes to help with something they cannot do themselves. That’s a sacred trust we’ll never take for granted.

2099 THOMAS ROAD, SUITE 20 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 372-0036 WWW.PRECISIONHVAC.COM

Myra Deyhle & Carol Johnson Myra Deyhle, Executive Vice President; Carol Johnson, President SPACES GROUP LLC

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arol S. Johnson and Myra A. Deyhle of Spaces Group LLC — With more than 50 years of collective design experience between them, Carol Johnson and Myra Deyhle specialize in more than just commercial furniture sales; they’re psychologists of the workplace.

“Good design matters” is their mantra. And in discussing good design, they are in tune with the changing nature of the workplace and how the new ways of working can affect a company’s bottom line in a positive way. “Our goal is to create an environment where employees feel excited about coming to work. Whether the project is a law firm, a school, or a hospital, in a new building or a renovation, there’s a good blending of design and function that we bring and an excitement that we create. That’s our calling and our passion.”

Recent projects include: Duncan-Williams, Mercer Capital, Horne LLP, Crew Training International, NexAir, Ford’s Theatre, and Tabor Orthopedics.

(901) 348-4600 • SPACESGRP.COM • INFO@SPACESGRP.COM • FACEBOOK.COM/SPACESGROUP

Kimberly V. Freeman Owner

THE ELMS LODGE

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s owner and operator of The Elms Plantation — a haven for duck hunters, located 15 miles south of Stuttgart, Arkansas — Kimberly Freeman has married her professional career with her passion for country, farm life, and traditions of the Old South. “I take pride in ownership,� she says. “I love my farm, my animals, my ducks, and the country lifestyle. I want my clients to have a taste of what I experience every day.�

Hunters are treated like royalty at The Elms: a ride from the airport, a personal outďŹ tting for the hunt, and ďŹ ne dining to end their day. Kimberly is a member of the National Association of Professional Women.

400 WEST ELM PLANTATION ROAD ALTHEIMER, ARKANSAS s 777 %,-3,/$'% #/-

Michelle Hayes Thomas President

HAYES HOMES & REALTY, ABOVE AND BEYOND ROOFING, & PROSPERITY REAL ESTATE SCHOOL

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ichelle Hayes Thomas is the President of Hayes Homes & Realty, Above and Beyond RooďŹ ng, and Prosperity Real Estate School. Michelle is the daughter of Memphis business legend, Charles Hayes of Hayes Body Shop.

She is proud to carry on the Hayes name in her own business and believes that Memphis knows that Hayes is a name you can trust. Upon meeting Michelle, the ďŹ rst thing to greet you is her warm smile. She cares about people and carries that into her everyday business practices. Hayes Thomas understands that every client is different and tries to help them according to their needs. Michelle enjoys her family, public speaking and singing at various churches and conferences throughout the Mid-South.

HAYESHOMESREALTY.COM

Kristen Waddell Marketing/PR Consultant

KRISTEN WADDELL CONSULTING

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ne of the truest statements I ever learned was from my dad: “Perception is Reality.â€? That statement ultimately led me to marketing as a profession. In the ever-changing ďŹ elds of marketing and technology, it is easy to get lost in the midst of information overload.

And with so many stories being told, how a company or product stands apart from its competitors determines much of its success. How your customers perceive you becomes your reality. My goal through promotion of new products, services and events is to target the right audience, draw their interest and build lasting personal relationships. Through consistent messaging, transparency and effective storytelling, a restaurant, organization or small business can provide a value that we can all believe in. With that image, others will begin to see you for what you can offer, not what they think you can. My philosophy is simple: Share Your Good News. s +2)34%.7!$$%,,#/.35,4).' #/-

Kelly Dobbins EXECUTIVE

MID-SOUTH DRUG TESTING

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ntrepreneur Kelly Dobbins has overseen the growth of her business — Mid-South Drug Testing, Inc. — just as the scientiďŹ c ďŹ eld of drug testing has merged into the daily lives of people near and far. Her 11-year background in criminal justice, combined with experience in ďŹ nance, operations, casework, and eight years in the banking industry make for one of the Mid-South’s most remarkable career proďŹ les. Specializing in onsite testing — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — and utilizing techniques that incorporate urine, saliva, and hair, Mid-South Drug Testing exceeded $1 million in revenue in 2013 and next year will celebrate 10 years in business.

Dobbins’s company offers individual, employment, school, federal, and court-ordered drug and alcohol testing as well as DNA testing and background checks.

WWW.MIDSOUTHDRUGTESTING.COM

Shari C. Carter OWNER

SCC RESIDENTIAL DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

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y company is a licensed and insured residential design and construction company that serves the Memphis area, including Germantown, Bartlett and Collierville. We specialize in home remodeling and renovation projects, including additions, kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces and attic conversions.

Our mission statement is: â€œâ€Śto offer homeowners a Design/Build Approach that features attention to detail, communication with the client, quality work, and timeliness in completing every project.â€? We believe these qualities show our high level of commitment and care for our clients and their homes.

We are the recipient of the prestigious Chrysalis Award for 2003 “Best Kitchen Remodel� in the Southern region.

LICENSED GENERAL CONTRACTOR IN THE MEMPHIS AREA SINCE 2000 s 777 3##$%3)'."5),$ #/-

Kristin Sharpe Visual Designer/Buyer

STASH

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ristin Sharpe, Visual Designer/Buyer for Stash, is the creative mind behind the cool, trendy environment. The Stash vision is to be the most unique and value-oriented furniture brand! Kristin brings many years of design experience and style to Stash and ultimately to your home through negotiating with the best brand name and most unique furniture vendors while still keeping an eye out for the one-of-a-kind pieces that can only be found at Stash!

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Misty Risner PRESIDENT

THE TINMAN

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isty manages the family rooďŹ ng business and is taking it to the next generation. With an eye for trends and designs and high standards of customer service, The Tinman will continue to be the MidSouth metal roof experts. Why put a temporary, disposable roof on your home, your biggest investment? Metal is a permanent solution. Misty is a native Memphian, a graduate of St. Agnes Academy and the University of Memphis. She is the mom of three active boys and understands the importance of completing projects by valuing your home and your time. Thank you Memphis for your trust! The Tinman gives back to our community by supporting Make a Wish and local sports teams. #/2$/6! 0!2+ 2/!$ s #/2$/6!

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Barbara Clenin Chief Executive OfďŹ cer and Wellness Director

TOTAL HEALTH WELLNESS CENTER

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wise woman once told Barbara, “Find something you love, and you will never work a day in your life!� After successfully managing the loss of more than 5,000 pounds and inches in her wellness center, Barbara Clenin found her passion in sharing the rewarding journey of dramatic weight-loss and enhanced well-being with her special clientele. Living in her hometown known for barbeque, ribs, and fried chicken, Barbara invested in medically developed protocols that promote fat loss, while supporting lean tissue. Coaching dieters with inspiration, accountability, and education, Barbara has introduced the Memphis community to the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method and the FDA-approved Zerona laser. Changing lives is the catalyst of Total Health’s vision, purpose, and success.

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Joelle Pittman MEMPHIS COMMUNITY MANAGER

YELP, INC.

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like my job so much, I named my horse Yelp! But when I’m not competing in horse shows, I’m at the helm of the Yelp Community in Memphis. I like to think of myself as the friend who knows when a new restaurant opens, which dry cleaner to use or where to take your girlfriend for a picnic in the park. Yelp.com connects people with great local businesses — anything from restaurants, dog groomers, mechanics, even dentists — based on the informed opinions of locals in the know. I contribute my own reviews on some of my favorite experiences in Memphis and the most fun on the job has to be the Yelp events I organize for folks in the community. From dinners and wine tastings to spa days and dance classes, Yelp events give people a chance to experience a local business like a true VIP! READ MY REVIEWS AT: JOELLEPITTMAN.YELP.COM MEMPHIS@YELP.COM

Ludy Callaway

Alexandra Garrett, DDS

Mortgage Expert

GERMANTOWN COSMETIC AND FAMILY DENTISTRY

“The Mortgage Lady�

Ludy Callaway KWAM-AM990 Monday Mornings MORTGAGE 8:00 - 9:00 AM

CRUMP

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udy has been a top Residential Mortgage Expert in Memphis for many years. She has earned the respect of Realtors, Builders and Industry Professionals and is known for the deep care and concern she holds for her customers. Listen to Ludy on “The Mortgage Lady� every Monday morning 8-9 AM on KWAM-AM990. “Most people think about mortgages a few times in their lives. I think about them every single day. Ask questions. Get answers!� s www.LudyHomeLoans.com

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r. Garrett has been building strong relationships through dental healthcare in the Memphis area since 2002. Her patient-focused practice is a relaxing space with a rush-free experience. She continues to invest in cutting-edge technology so she can offer the most comprehensive and comfortable care.

Dr. Garrett provides full service dental care including smile reconstruction, replacing missing teeth, and comprehensive dental care for children and adults.

GERMANTOWN COSMETIC AND FAMILY DENTISTRY 2026 EXETER ROAD, SUITE 2, GERMANTOWN s !,%8!.$2!'!22%44$$3 #/-

Melissa Ragsdale President, 3D Printer Solutions

NOVACOPY

Alexandra Nicole Rushing Owner THE

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3D

Printing has set the world (and Tennessee) abuzz with design innovation allowing entire industries to create and print real parts on-demand.

NovaCopy, Tennessee’s go-to for business technology, including copiers and document solutions, is also the state’s premier 3D printing resource.

Leading the 3D charge is Melissa Ragsdale. On any given day, Melissa’s helping businesses ďŹ gure out a place in their world for this futuristic, cutting-edge solution. As she likes to say, “the future is now.â€?

IVORY CLOSET

lexandra Rushing, owner of Adel Amor Cosmetics, The Ivory Closet Boutique, and The Attic Boutique, is an expert in the fashion and beauty industry.

You may ďŹ nd her as a makeup artist behind the scenes of one of LA’s premier parties, a local magazine shoot/ fashion show, or styling men and women in one of her stores. Either way, she is a young professional building her smallbusiness empire in Memphis.

103 HARBOR TOWN SQUARE MEMPHIS, TN 38103 s )6/29#,/3%4 #/-

5520 SHELBY OAKS DR. MEMPHIS, TN 38134 WWW.NOVACOPY.COM

Kathleen Carey Owner

STELLAWARE

Collins Tuohy & Laurie Suriff

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Co-Owners WHIMSY

pparel designer Kathleen Carey is now offering Stellaware, a couture line of “Poochie Phashion� for the feline and canine. Inspired by her two great loves — fashion and her Labrador, Stella by Starlight — Ms. Carey has designed a pet accessory collection emphasizing comfort and utility. And, of course, trend-setting phashion.

Ms. Carey is an award-winning apparel industry veteran with over 18 years of experience in brand design and development as a designer of various California fashion labels.

As a devoted animal lover, a percentage of Stellaware proceeds is donated to Mid-South animal rescue groups and shelters. s 34%,,!7!2% #/-

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COOKIE COMPANY

aurie and Collins pride themselves in being able to not only deliver impeccably designed cookies, but delicious mouth-watering treats as well. Their creation: The Whimsy Cookie Company, a specialty boutique with expertise in designing custom, hand-decorated cookies. Cookies are available for shipping across all 50 states. Their wide range of clientele includes everyone from the supermom next door to the celebrity cast on set in Los Angeles. Laurie and Collins can’t wait to begin working on your custom cookie creation! Look for the NEW East Memphis location coming soon! Hugs and Cookies!

0,%!3!.4 6)%7 2/!$ s -%-0()3 4. s 777 7()-39#//+)%#/ #/-