April 2009
SPRING RENEWAL
Contents
22 April 2009 Volume III • Number 7
EVENTS 8 10 12 14
14
8 FEATURES
49 Flower Power
A Taste of Tuscany came to Town
34 Lurie Brings "Nothing but the Truth"
And the Oscar Goes to....Ronald McDonald House Charities
36 Up on the Roof with Josh:
Snow Sets the Scene for League's White Winter Supper
38 VIPBeauty- Sprucing up for Spring:
Honoring the U of M's 2009 Distinguished Alums: All Aboard
40 Island Stone's Beauty is More than
16
Stepping into Hope
18
Teens, Texting & Tennis
20 She Wears it Well––Queen of Charity Horse Show Crowned
22 Encore Scores for Charity
back to Memphis
Sunset Atop the Madison
49
Man Power by Sheila Zaricor-Wilson
Skin Deep by David Lindsey
52 Cooking with Chef Ben Vaughn: Eating Local for Spring
43 Old + New This time the two featured homes could not be more different. The "old" home is traditional both inside and out with classic architectural elements, while the "new" house proudly ushers in a high-tech and "green" new dawn.
54 Chef's Spring Selections from Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen and Itta Bena Restaurant
54
24 Cotton Carnival Coronations Continue
26 Popular Phoenix Party was
43
Packed to the Gills
28 Mardi Gras at Memphis National
28 Art of Good Taste 30 Staxtacular ‘09 31
REGULARS 6 Letter from the Editor 35 Just Out of the Spotlight, the Movie Lady Reports on Memphis Women in Film: Molly Smith
Scholars for Memphis at Stax
32 Stetsons and Stars at
41
Opening Doors by Mary McFerrin of Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors
Minglewood
56 People and Places 58 For the Love of Wine
4 • VIP
Memphis
LEttEr S From the Editor
pring has well and truly sprung at last, and we are all into a renewal mode of sprucing up our homes and ourselves. If you are contemplating selling your home anytime soon, Mary McFerrin’s “Opening Doors” article will give you some “how to” hints on transforming a good home into a “great” one. Also, David Lindsey reports that one of the new fashions in home design is the use of natural stone tile for adding a more textural, three-dimensional look to your decor. In our Old + New feature, we have this time focused in our unique photographic style on two very different houses. One is an older midtown home with antique architectural artifacts, and one is a brand spanking new “green” home downtown. VIP Memphis’s staff member, Mark O. Ramirez, volunteered for a male makeover at the hands of VIP friend and Master Design Salon and Welllness Studio owner, Sheila Zaricor-Wilson. So gentlemen, put some "spring" in your step and follow Mark's lead. We are thrilled this time to welcome our friend Josh Spotts as a new columnist. For those of you who don’t know him, he is the man-about-town Catering Sales and Conference Service Manager at the Madison Hotel. His “Up on the Roof with Josh” articles will focus on different aspects of the weekly Sunset Atop the Madison parties, which are being kicked off on April 9th. This time he writes about the wealth of musical talent available in the Memphis area and how the Resource Entertainment Group works closely with the hotel to book the best possible musicians for these special parties. Linn Sitler, our very own Movie Lady, has interviewed Molly Smith, our famous young Memphis filmmaker, who tells us how she got into the movie business and what she is planning for the future. Speaking of movies, we also have a story covering the day that director Rod Lurie brought his feature film, Nothing but the Truth, back to town. Tasty spring specialties are on our minds this month, and we offer you recipes from Ben Vaughn of River Oaks, Michael Hudman of Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, and Seth Krasnove of Itta Bena. Of course the ever clever Arthur
PUBLISHER Kat Semrau
ADMINISTRATOR Lorne Semrau
EDITOR Anne Cunningham O’Neill
GRAPHIC DESIGN Donna Donald, Director Ben Williams
WEB MASTER Anne Cunningham O’Neill
Kahn is with us, this time pointing to the agonies and ecstasies of his trade show wine-tasting experiences. In honor of the 40th anniversary of Woodstock and the return of Hair to Broadway, we thought we would provide a little “Flower Power” to delight you. See inside for Andrea Zucker’s colorful photographs. As always, VIP Memphis has attended many fabulous events ranging from the Junior League Crystal Kaleidoscope supper, to the glittering Madonna Circle antiques, garden and gourmet show, to the red-carpeted Oscar Night gala, with a couple of Mardi Gras and Cotton Carnival Grand Krewe parties thrown in for good measure. Read all about them inside! OK. I have to confess that I am not that into hats, except maybe the odd baseball cap to protect me from the elements. I went bareheaded at my own wedding (which is probably a sacrilege), and I had to borrow a hat from my sister-in-law to be allowed into the Royal Enclosure at Ascot. But since this is Eastertime, I decided to put aside my phobias and don a chapeau. As you can see, I picked the biggest one I could find, and it is not surprisingly an English import. It is rather fetching, but I can guarantee that you won’t ever see me in it again. No way. Happy Springtime, Happy Easter.
Anne
About the Cover April 2009
SPRING RENEWAL
6 • VIP
Memphis
Robert Neilson
ADVERTISING Senior Account Executive Mark O. Ramirez Account Executives Jason Watson Ellen E. Westbrook
WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Jay Adkins Sarah Christine Bolton Lyda Kay Ferree Mark O. Ramirez Christina Trask Andrea Zucker
Distribution Terry Lay
VIP MEMPHIS MAGAZINE Suite 212 4711 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38117 901.766.2999 901.766.2977 (fax) memphis@vipmag.com www.vipmag.com
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Cherry blossoms signal spring, and Andrea Zucker was able to capture our gorgeous cover photograph just as the blooms were bursting forth at the Memphis Botanic Garden. With its stately swan, tranquil pond and reflections of pink and blue, this tableau reminds us of an impressionist painting by Claude Monet set in his Japanese-inspired water garden at Giverny. While on the subject of art and beauty, Memphians recently had the opportunity to see Puccini's tragic Madame Butterfly at the Malco's Paradiso Theatre in its "Live from the Met" series. Cherry blossoms are an intrinsic part of this opera classic which is set in Japan. Memorably at one point, to celebrate her love's return after a long absence, CioCio San (Butterfly) joyously asks her maid to bring spring indoors by picking cherry tree branches and shaking the flowers throughout the house. With apologies to poet Robert Browning, VIP Memphis magazine says, "O to be in Memphis now that April's here."
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April 2009 • 7
VIPEvent
A Taste of Tuscany came to Town t was andiamo to the Madonna Circle's opening night gala “A Taste of
gourmet cuisine from area restaurants and caterers. Music was provided by
Tuscany.” This glamorous, black-tie optional event at the Agricenter In-
R & D Blended. Linda Armstrong and Heather Scheibelhut were co-chair-
ternational kicked off the three-day Memphis Antiques, Garden and
men of this year’s 34th annual Madonna Circle show. VIP Memphis maga-
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Gourmet Show. Thirty-eight prominent dealers participated, and guests rel-
zine was proud to be a contributor.F Photography by Christina Trask
ished exceptional shopping opportunities while strolling and sampling
Michael & Linda Armstrong 8 • VIP
Memphis
Sandra Saunders Jones
Bishop Terry Steib & Norma Montesi
Leah Himelright & Mark Floyd
Mary & Sam Cornpropst
Jim Sherman & Carin Morgan
Connie & Rick Harlow
Phil & Terry Woodard
Kent & Sherry Clothier
M.J. & Davey Weakes
Jean & Lisa Clay April 2009 • 9
VIPEvent
Luca Lindner & Lisa Ballard
Kiki Richardson, Jessica Kirk & Jennifer Goyer
And the Oscar Goes to.... Ronald McDonald House Charities he red carpet was rolled out for the more than 450 guests arriving at the 8th annual black-tie Memphis Oscar Night America party benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities. Held in the Tower Room of the Clark Tower, it wasn't quite Hollywood, but it felt like it when VIP's editor was stopped and asked who her outfit was designed by. Luckily the interviewer, with microphone in hand, was much kinder than
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Matt Peace & Rae Lyn Hartley 10 • VIP Memphis
Rozell Henderson & Tammy Caldwell
Joan Rivers and helpfully suggested "Oscar de la Your Closet," which we thought was quite clever. This special event was one of 52 charity parties being held around the country that are sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Music was provided by Dr. Zarr's Amazing Funk Monster and there were both silent and live auctions and a special Oscars viewing room. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
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Teresa Starnes & Gary Jones April 2009 • 11
VIPEvent
Snow Sets the Scene for League's White Winter Supper o coin a phrase, it was rubber boots on the ground when snowflakes added a bit more shimmer than planned to the Junior League of Memphis's Crystal Kaleidoscope party. As if on cue, the snow set off to perfection the appropriately named "Winter Supper Set in White." Guests gamely braved the weather to enjoy cocktails and canapes served in the League house at Central and Highland. The action then
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Nora Capwell, Weetie Whittemore & Melissa Lessley
Trevor & Allison Yant 12 • VIP Memphis
segued into the tremendous, white silk-lined tent out back. Chef Andreas Kisler and staff from the Peabody prepared a gourmet dinner, and Brian "Breeze" Cayolle and the Memphis Rhythm Band featuring Susan Marshall and Gary Johns provided the evening's music. Both silent and live auctions added to the festivities. Nicole Haney was party chairman and Nora Capwell, Junior League President. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
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Chey Widdop, Charlotte Bray & Nicole Haney
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Michael & Martha Hess April 2009 • 13
VIPEvent
Honoring the U of M's 2009 Distinguished Alums: All Aboard
G
ala guests took the "M Train" to Central Station and were welcomed aboard to celebrate the accomplishments of University of Memphis distinguished alumni and friends. The party was hosted by the University's Alumni Association and awards were given to: the late Thomas Boggs, the restaurateur and civic leader, whose award was given posthumously; Walter Leavy and Lynn Norment of Ebony magazine; and William C. Rhodes, Chairman, President and CEO of AutoZone, Inc. Henry Turley, President of the company that bears his name, was given the distinguished friend award. Guests were treated to "first class" dining and entertainment. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Charles & Judy Burkett 14 • VIP Memphis
Walter Leavy & Elyse Kennard-Leavy
Amy, Charlie, Bill & Madison Rhodes
Lauren Boggs McHugh, Henry Turley & Ashley Boggs Williams
Lynn Norment & Kim Barnett
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Bob Canady, Dr. Shirley Raines with Diane & Larry Papasan April 2009 • 15
VIPEvent
Stepping into Hope ANDREAZUCKER photography
H
ope Presbyterian Church recently held its Women of Hope Conference 2009 as part of its ongoing women's ministry. The featured speaker was Lysa TerKeurst who inspired the attendees with the message of how to transform the "everyday" into the "extraordinary," and how to experience God in unexpected ways. TerKeurst's captivating story has been shared with thousands of women and has been told on Oprah. Special music at the event was provided by Memphis's own Becky Russell.F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
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Jenny Robichaux & Jennifer Jaudon
Phyllis Johnson & Diane Mitchell
Diana Brewer, Debbie Churchey & Susan Hewes
Lisa Morrison & April Hunter
Judy Hrubes & Kathy Howard April 2009 • 17
VIPEvent
Teens, Texting & Tennis ellular South's Jim Richmond, Director of Corporate Communications, along with Bruce Orpet, Public Relations Specialist, hosted a “Teen Bash” at The Racquet Club. The event provided the opportunity for teens to meet various tennis pros competing in the recent Cellular South Cup Tournament. Maney and Riley of Q107.5 broadcasted live from the event, which included a "texting" contest. The Teen Bash was a huge success for CelluPhotographs by Mark O. Ramirez lar South with over 300 teens attending. F
Chelseigh Black, Emerald Able, Lexxus & Taylor Shaw
Courtney Nagle, Jim Richmond & Natalie Grandin
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VIPEvent
She Wears it Well–– Queen of Charity Horse Show Crowned he elegant Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball was held at Woodland Hills. It
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began with cocktails at 7.00 p.m., followed by presentation of the 25 princesses and the beautiful queen at 8.00, after which guests were treated to dinner and dancing. The
Kathryn Stallins Band provided the entertainment. Bailey Elizabeth Fedler was crowned queen and will reign over the Germantown Charity Horse Show which takes place in June. She attends the University of Wisconsin at Stout where she is majoring in interior design. Her escort was John McSherry. Amy Beth Dudley was the chairman of the Royal Ball which benefited The Exchange Club Family Center. Lynda Smith is President of the Germantown Charity Horse Show. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez Lynda Smith & Bailey Fedler
Donna Crenshaw & Deborah Dunklin Tipton
Peggy, Steve, Mattie & Michael Jordan, Carole Motta & Renee Jordan
William Street & Alex Tankersley
Winston Cannon, Mary Griffin Tate & Trip Trippeer 20 • VIP Memphis
Allie Cowles & Missy Arrendale
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Jean & Rick Landrum Sandy & McKenzie Maness with Nancy Saunders
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Amy Beth & Elaine Dudley Gladys Smith with Bailey & Jan Fedler
Brandon Reed & Alison Hughes April 2009 • 21
VIPEvent
Encore Scores for Charity C
hef JosĂŠ Gutierrez stepped up to the plate (literally) and prepared a superb dinner at his Encore restaurant in downtown to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee. Guests were also treated to a live auction and a fashion show of the latest styles for men and women courtesy of James Davis. Models also wore colorful vintage clothing from the private collection of Babbie Lovett. The Executive Director of the photography by Mark O. Ramirez Foundation is Mable Barringer. F
22 • VIP Memphis
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Shirley & Leland Burress April 2009 • 23
VIPEvents
Ptolemy @the University Club
Cotton Carnival Coronations Continue
P
tolemy's coronation was the last of the krewe announcement parties. The fun will start back up again when Carnival Week begins with the Crown and Sceptre Ball on May 29 at the Hilton Memphis.F Photography by Christina Trask
Jolene DePete & Jorge Jaramillo
King George Gates & Queen Jana Lamanna
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Catherine & Ricky Harris 24 • VIP Memphis
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VIPEvent
Popular Phoenix Party was Packed to the Gills he Phoenix Club held its stupendously successful Mardi Gras Party and Casino Night at the Cadre Building this year. Some 1,400 guests turned out for this ever popular fundraiser to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. The party was packed to the gills with a very fun-loving crowd who danced the night away to the music of Lord T and Eloise. Gaines Conaway and Ross Ridenhour were chairs of the event. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
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Kevin Munn with Tina & Rob Winkler
August LeVangie & Ryan Saddler
Emily Terral, Maureen Jacobs & Cindy McRae
Alex Martinez, Karolina Grabowicz, Nicole Goette & Allie Henson
Gaines Conaway & Ross Ridenhour
Jennings Pitts, John Hammons & Patton Ellis
David White, Kevin Hansom & Luke Gatling
26 • VIP Memphis
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The LOOK is just the beginning. Christi Delappe & Matt Schneider
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VIPEvents
Mardi Gras at Memphis National
M
emphis National Golf Club in Collierville held a smashing Mardi Gras party with all the trimmings. To get everyone in the New Orleans spirit, there were cajun specialties including peel and eat shrimp, crawfish etouffee, muffalettas, blackened chicken with cajun cream sauce, king cake and more. The Joyce Cobb Trio was on hand to liven things up. F Photography by Christina Trask
Bob & Ann Mantek
Stephanie & John Koshak
Cindy & Russ Owen
Pam Pittman & Mark Wakefield
Brenda & Lou Ganem
Vicki & Dave Vallee
Art of GOOD TASTE
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he Memphis Brooks Museum of Art's wine auction season and premier fundraising series of events—known as the Art of Good Taste—has sprung to a start with a five-course wine dinner at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. Presented by SunTrust, this year's “spring fever” theme highlights California's celebrated Spring Mountain region with an unprecedented number of vintners from the area travelling to Memphis to participate. We are told that Spring Mountain is located above the Napa Valley and is defined by small vineyards, often hand-tilled on terraces, and wineries hidden from view among forests and steep winding roads. Guests at the Fleming's dinner enjoyed a dinner prepared by Chef William Kloos which was paired with wines from Keenan, Spring Mountain, Schweiger and Terra Valentine Vineyards. The evening was hosted by The Parker Family, in memory of Tony M. Parker, Sr. Good tastes indeed and VIP Memphis magazine is proud to be a sponsor. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Wayne Jarrett & Diane Jalfon
Shannon Myers with Mike & Meg Parker 28 • VIP Memphis
Kim & Jonathan Ellichman
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April 2009 • 29
VIPEvent
Staxtacular ’09
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he Stax Music Academy held its largest fundraiser of the year at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.Grizzlies stars Mike Conley,
Rudy Gay and O.J. Mayo hosted the event which featured buffet sta-
tions and bars, a silent auction and entertainment by DJ Buck Wilders. Sun-
Trust was the presenting sponsor for the festivities. F Photography by Christina Trask
Lee Moten, Marc Willis & Al Wooten
Joel Currie, Misty Roberson & Eric Bleier
Emily Larson & Todd Miller 30 • VIP
Memphis
Becky Amos & Mark Bickers
Elza Crocco & Michael McKenna
Shirley Ford & Tonya Martin
VIPEvent
Scholars for Memphis at Stax
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unTrust Banks Inc., Rhodes College and The Soulsville Charter School recently teamed up to celebrate their working together to contribute to the vibrancy of
Memphis through education, community service and cultural awareness. The
event was called "Scholars for Memphis" and was held at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. SunTrust- Memphis President John Frazer, Rhodes President, Dr. William E.
Troutt, and Soulsville Foundation President and CEO Marc Willis were in attendance. Members of The Soulsville Charter School's symphony orchestra performed for the guests who thoroughly enjoyed cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and high-minded conversation. F Photography by Mark O. Ramirez
Dionne Chalmers, Katie Maxwell & Jordan Barre
Meagan Tate & Telissah Williams
John Frazer & Calvin Turley
Rychetta Watkins, Robert Strandurg & Carole Troutt
Spence Wilson & William E. Troutt
Cary Booker & Alex Turley
Sally Heinz & Anna Kathryn Word
Brenda Lanier & Russ Wigginton April 2009 • 31
VIPEvent
Stetsons and Stars at Minglewood
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owboy boots, blue jeans, stetsons, bandannas and even some chaps were the attire for the sold-out Alzheimer's Association Mid-South Chapter's second annual Stetsons and Stars fundraiser, which was held at Minglewood Hall, an exciting new venue in the heart of Midtown. The KingBilly Band and the Daisy Duke Girls provided entertainment, and there were live and silent auctions, a ranch-style dinner buffet and a mechanical bullriding contest. Memphis media celebs Jay Young, Brian Elder and Cameron Harper emceed the event. Valerie and Jeff Morris were co-chairmen. F Photography by Christina Trask
Ernie & Ethele Hilliard
Becky Davis, J.B. Williamson & Kerri Buffalo
Valerie Morris with D'Army & Adrienne Bailey
Randy & Ami Austin with Susan Murrmann 32 • VIP
Memphis
Johnna Popper & Dr. Denis Frieden
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April 2009 • 33
VIPFeature
Lurie Brings back to Memphis t was a red letter day for the Memphis film com-
tion had affected him like “a drive-by shooting.” On the
munity and its friends when writer/director Rod
bright side, he praised Memphis as “a great city to film in”
Lurie recently came to town for a screening of
and said that in his experience on five films and countless
I
his film, “Nothing but the Truth.” Shot in and
hours of television, “this was the finest crew he had ever
around Memphis in the fall of 2007, it stars Kate
worked with.”
Beckinsale, Alan Alda, Matt Dillon, and Vera
Finally, much later, some of us headed to the after-
Farmiga and features a number of Memphians as
party which was held at the lovely Itta Bena restaurant
extras and most notably, Judges Bernice B. Donald
downtown. I enjoyed getting the chance to speak to Lurie
and D'Army Bailey as Supreme Court Justices. It is
in an informal setting, and it was the perfect ending to a
the very timely story of a reporter who goes to jail
great day spent immersed in the fabulous world of film.F
for refusing to give up her sources and appears to
Story by Anne Cunningham; photos by Mark Ramirez
Rod Lurie & Jimmy Tashie
be loosely based on the real-life Judith Miller story, though it is first and foremost a political thriller. Speaking of “the truth,” the sad truth is that the distribution division of Yari Films filed for bankruptcy late last year, which means that instead of being shown in movie houses, “Nothing but the Truth” will go straight to DVD. An intimate lunch was held at the University Club in Lurie's honor which was sponsored by The Commercial Appeal, Malco Theatres, Inc., The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission, FedEx, Pinnacle Airlines Corp., and the University of Memphis-College of Communications & Fine Arts. Linn Sitler, Memphis & Shelby
Chris Peck
County Film and Television Commissioner (and Judge Bernice B. Donald & Bill Luckett
VIP Memphis columnist) greeted the distinguished hosts and guests, who included Chris Peck, John Beifuss, Jimmy Tashie, Phil Trenary, Judge Bernice B. Donald, Blanchard Tual, Bill Luckett, City Councilman Myron Lowery, Mike Cody, Michael Pleasants, Kemper Durand, Jon Sparks, Steven Mulroy, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Memphis, David Arant, Chair of the U. of
Tammy & Eddie Laster
Linn Sitler
M's Department of Journalism and Dr. Richard Ranta, Dean, the College of Communications & Fine Arts, U. of M. Also present were Sharon Fox O'Guin, Deputy Film Commissioner, and myself and VIP Memphis photographer, Mark O. Ramirez. The discussion revolved around First Amendment issues raised in the film. Later that evening, following the film's screening to an enthusiastic crowd at the Malco's Paradiso, Lurie participated in a Q and A session with John Beifuss. Lurie said that the shock and disappointment over the disastrous distribution situa34 • VIP
Memphis
Sara & Bob Geabhart with Lisa Lax
Katie Groshong & Sharon Fox O'Guin
Just Out of the Spotlight
Memphis Women in Film: Molly Smith The Movie Lady Reports by Linn Sitler
recently interviewed Memphis' own native daughter, Molly Smith, a successful filmmaker living in Hollywood. Molly is perhaps best known for producing the 2007 hit, P.S. I Love You. She's executive producer of The Blind Side -- currently in preproduction in Atlanta. In spite of her glamorous career and world travels, Molly's heart is still at home, in Memphis.
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LS: What was it like growing up in Memphis? Describe where you went to school, your friends. Were you athletic? Talk about having so many sisters and brothers. Did you go to camp? Did you go to the movies a lot? What was your favorite movie? star? MS: I grew up in Memphis with nine other siblings and attended St. Agnes Academy, which I LOVED. I had so many great friends and teachers and coaches there that really helped shape me. I played soccer all the way until college, which kept me busy with a great hobby. I spent my high school summers attending soccer camps, and then just before senior year attending a summer filmmakers workshop at NYU where I fell in love with filmmaking. I have always watched so much TV and loved movies. My first love for “entertainment” actually developed from my obsession with soapoperas believe it or not. LS: At what point did you know you wanted to make film your career? MS: After attending the summer filmmakers workshop at NYU I knew that I loved all that went into filmmaking. I went on to attend NYU’s Tisch School and majored in film and television production. It was a very competitive but great school, which taught me so much about production. I also spent my summers while there working on the sets of feature films and just learning everything I could about what went into a full production. Getting coffee for many producers over the years was the best learning experience of all. LS: Did you make short films...student-type films? Ever work on a commercial? On t.v.? MS: I did have to make many short films at NYU, but I loved the logistics and project-management of it all more than the creative. And yes, I did work as an assistant on a pilot for ABC called THE TRAVELER which was a great experience to be able to compare TV production to film. LS:
MS:
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MS:
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LS: What have been for you the most important traits to cultivate in order to be successful? MS: Hmmm. I guess I would say learning how to find balance in your life is probably one of the keys to success. It’s something I’m still working on, but I always try to put my family first and work second. LS: Talk about a typical work day...in the office? in meetings? on the set? MS: A typical work day right now is a little bit of everything. I’ll have development meetings with writers on scripts I have in development, then budget and casting meetings on the film we’re prepping in Atlanta, and then I’m about to travel to location so I will be on set as well a lot this year. LS: How do you decide which scripts you want to develop? MS: I have a development exec and assistant who work with me, Allison and Jon, as well as my sister Rachel. Together we all read so many scripts, books, articles and hear pitches each day. It’s very tough to make decisions on a lot of them, but we have to be picky because we get so many each week. I would say for me it has to start with a wonderful story with characters that you become deeply invested in their journey. You can see some of the stuff I have in development on our new website www.2sfilms.com LS: How does it feel to be a woman film executive/pro -ducer in Hollywood? MS: It’s a great, competitive and exciting industry to work in, as it’s always changing. I think there are so many great female producers and executives now to look up to in Hollywood, and I hope to achieve half the success some of them have already achieved.
LS: Talk about how Tennessee needs to have more competitive incentives to really compete for the big films. Talk about working overseas on "The Affair of the MS: TN needs to get in the game and compete with Hillary Swank & Molly Smith Necklace" ....and any other interesting on-location some of these other States like Georgia and Michjobs. igan right now! It’s a beautiful State and could double When I began working in physical production on film sets, the best part was getting to travel the for a lot of “locations” in film, and it would be great to see TN really be able to compete with world. I worked on films in Prague, London, Venice, and probably the most interesting location some of these States that have such aggressive tax incentive plans right now. was South Africa where I lived for 5 months. I love traveling and its a great way to learn so much about each location’s culture, getting to work with the local film crews so closely. LS: Why should a filmmaker (incentives aside) choose Memphis as his/her location base? MS: Memphis is such a great city with so much charm and character. It looks great on film and can also How often do you come home to Memphis? double for a lot of other cities as well. Memphis also has a growing crew base and facilities. I come home to Memphis as much as I can since a lot of my family is still in Memphis, and it will always be my home. LS: Do you ever socialize or run into any of the other Memphians in Hollywood: e.g., Ginnifer Goodwin, Cybill Shepherd, Kendall Morgan Rhodes? You and Hillary Swank first worked together on "The Affair of the Necklace" ...then worked toMS: I haven’t met Ginnifer, but I am a fan of her work. I definitely know and love Kendall Morgan gether again on "P.S. I LOVE YOU." Talk about forming your own production company together Rhodes; she’s got a lot going on as a producer right now. and the films you have planned for it. What is involved in having your own company? Reading scripts? Obtaining financing? etc. LS: Do you consider yourself more of a business person or a creative person? Hilary Swank was on the first movie I worked on, THE AFFAIR OF THE NECKLACE, where I acMS: I consider myself both – I like it all. tually got her coffee and tea every day. We then worked together a few years later again on INSOMNIA, and so it definitely felt like fate when we decided to cast her in P.S. I LOVE YOU, the first LS: What is your favorite made-in-Memphis movie? film I produced. She is probably one of the most dedicated and hard-working actresses out there MS: I think THE CLIENT and CASTAWAY are probably my two favorite movies made in Memphis. and definitely one of the most talented actresses of our generation. We have very similar tastes in movies, and therefore after PS, we got to talking and decided to partner to form 2S Films. She and LS: What advice would you have for Memphis filmmakers who want to move to Hollywood and beI are having so much fun developing so many great projects together. come producers and for those who want to stay in Memphis? MS: My only advice would be just to find a great story and run with it. It all starts with a great story. Did you ever consider acting? screenwriting? Would you? I think you can produce from anywhere. The advantage to being in Los Angeles or New York is Oh Lord no, I don’t even like pictures of myself, so I would never act. As for screenwriting, that’s getting to know the talent, writers, studio executives etc.. But again, if you have a great story and also not something I see myself doing. I truly love producing and all that comes with it. My sister, believe in it, it doesn’t matter where you are based.F Rachel, on the other hand, who has been working with me... I think she may be a talented screenwriter in the making. April 2009 • 35
Up on the Roof with Josh
Sunset Atop the Madison veryone is probably familiar with the iconic oldie but goodie from the 1960s, “Up on the
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Roof.” Originally recorded by the Drifters some of its most memorable lyrics are: “when this
old world starts getting me down…”, “on the roof it’s peaceful as can be and there the
world below can’t bother me…”, “stars put on a show for free...”, "right smack dab in the middle of town, I found a paradise that’s trouble-free...”. That rooftop does sound relaxing doesn’t it? Well, let me tell you, spring has arrived, and I have just the roof for you right here in downtown Memphis. The Madison Hotel is kicking off our weekly “Sunset Atop the Madison” parties on Thursday, April 9th at 5:30pm. These events, held on our rooftop terrace, are a seven-year-old tradition attracting locals and travelers alike every week. In keeping with the elegance and style of our hotel, they are sophisticated and much more than the usual “throw-down dance parties.” In fact, they can probably be better described as “listening venues” for the music as well as the premier place to mingle and network.
Expect to enjoy a different ambiance and theme every
REG’s four partners -- Mike Brocato, Paul Chandler,
week, but you can always count on the spectacular Missis-
Rollin Riggs, and Howard Stovall -- are dedicated to helping
The Madison Hotel is kicking off
sippi River view, a gentle breeze, and a cool, jazzy vibe. The
make our Madison rooftop parties standouts by having the
our weekly “Sunset Atop the
view from Atop the Madison affords a totally unobstructed
music reflect our unique venue and perfectly complement
Madison” parties on Thursday,
perspective of the Mississippi River as well as the tri-State
the event. Most of the music they book for us is in the genre
April 9th at 5:30pm.
area and the Delta. It is often described as Memphis’ best
of jazz and blues, although sometimes they go outside the
vantage point, especially as the sun sets on the horizon.
box with rockabilly and R&B. As Rollin Riggs of REG said to
Elmo & the Shades
Part of the key to the success of these parties is that we
me recently, “What is so mind-blowing about the Madison
respect the music and the musicians, and we rely on Re-
rooftop parties is that you can be standing with a cocktail in
source Entertainment Group (REG) here in Memphis to
hand, just three feet away from a musical legend, every
Joyce Cobb
seek out the best Mid-South entertainment for us. Elmo &
Thursday night. We book some extraordinary talent for
April 16
the Shades will be the first performers in this season’s lineup,
these events, and the artists love performing there.”
April 9
followed by Joyce Cobb on April 16. The Dempseys will
It just doesn't get any better than that, and I would like
The Dempseys
thrill the crowd on April 23. We will continue with fabulous
to invite everyone to come downtown to join me “Up on
April 23
groups throughout the spring, summer and into the fall.
the Roof” at the Madison Hotel on Thursdays for cocktails,
As REG likes to say, “It takes talent to throw a great
Chef Chris Windsor’s famous Tapas (made with locally
party.” True to their word, they represent an impressive sta-
grown ingredients), and the Memphis music that has made
ble of such favorite Mid-South talents (in addition to those
our city world-renowned.
just mentioned) as Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster, the Beale Street Flippers, Ms. Ruby Wilson, the Soul Shockers, the Venus Mission, the Bouffants, Amy LaVere, Gary Johns, “Breeze” Cayolle, and the list goes on and on. From coast to coast and overseas, REG has also produced shows with some of the world’s biggest stars, including Elton John, Earth, Wind and Fire, Roberta Flack, Harry Connick Jr., Lyle Lovett, Charlie Daniels, and many others.
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We look forward to seeing you.
J os h Best!
Josh Spotts – Madison Hotel 79 Madison Ave Memphis, TN 38103 jspotts@madisonhotelmemphis.com
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April 2009 • 37
VIPBeauty
Sheila Zaricor-Wilson on
Sprucing up for Spring: Man Power n all species, the male is the most beautiful, the most colorful, the most powerful and commands the most attention.
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Animals stay in shape because their survival depends on it. In the civilized human world, we need physical and mental fitness to survive the social and financial stresses in today’s environment. Skin care, appropriate hair styles and good
grooming techniques are part of this total fitness picture. Men truly believe in the power of looking and feeling their best. up their drains. Why should they shave with soap when there are prodThey know the feeling of absolute well-being is the best life has to offer. ucts out there to shave with that will make the shave smoother and at When compared to those forms of power the same time moisturize the skin? that we value and that unfortunately can be Mark O. Ramirez, a VIP Memphis taken away by others ---- political, financial, magazine senior staffer, was a great makemilitary--- the power that comes from lookover candidate. He is a handsome fellow, ing and feeling your best is something, for but after a consultation with myself and my the most part, that is totally within the constaff, we decided that a few changes would trol of each individual. improve his skin tone and the condition of Although women remain the queens his hair, and still be a low maintenance look of makeovers and beauty regimes, lately for him to keep up with. Without changmen have been claiming their rightful place ing the length of his hair, we took out some in the world of beauty by learning how to of the bulk and volume at critical points, apstay feeling good and looking better. Don’t plied a translucent stain to reduce the grey, laugh or underestimate men in this connecand colored and reshaped his eyebrows to tion, as believe me they definitely underoffset the dark circles under his eyes. He stand the simple things that improve their was also introduced to skin care products looks. Ten years ago, there was not a man to use after shaving and at night. alive who would walk up to a counter and So gentlemen, let Mark's example inconfidently order a nonfat chocolate mocha spire you and just remember that a few latte with a twist of something or other. But small tweaks and changes here and there today nearly all men have mastered the lancan make a big impact on the way you look guage of "designer" coffees. Men are quick and feel. Trust me, you will have more Mark's suit is by S. Cohen and tie by XMI, which are both availlearners and want to slow down those fine confidence and be empowered to take on able at Shelton Clothiers, 147 S. Main, Memphis. lines and wrinkles just like us women. They the world. F want to know how to keep their hair Sheila Zaricor-Wilson is owner of Master Design Salon & Wellness Studio at 5149 Wheelis Drive, telephone 901.685.2351. healthy and on their head instead of clogging She is also a partner in a new venture, Crown Winery, which is located near Humboldt, Tennessee.
Proud Member of: Intercoiffure and American Board Certified Haircolorist
Where we focus on You! Let us help You Look and feel your best There is no reason for you not to have beautiful hair and radiant looking skin
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5149 Wheelis Road • Memphis, TN 38117
901-685-2351 www.masterdesign-spa.com
VIPFeature
Island Stone's Beauty is More than Skin Deep by David Lindsey
“Inspire” and “Rejuvenate” are the words for spring… he trend in home design today is to create an
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environment and space that will inspire the soul and rejuvenate and renew us after all the
stresses of the day. Natural stone with its raw beauty combined with innovative design makes it a “natural” choice to achieve the spa/zen look and feel. The look is just the beginning. The real beauty of Island Stone is something unique and comes from complete control of the entire production process from sourcing the raw materials in Indonesia and India through to the creation of the final product. The company has unmatched standards of human care, where all stones are hand-sorted, color-matched and then placed on templates to produce a product that is superior in quality. Island Stone provides a textural, three-dimensional look and its products can be used in a variety of ways only limited by your imagination. The “pebble series” offers an intriguing variety of stone and color blends. With a proprietary interlocking pattern system, the installation of Island Stone is seamless. From pebbles to beach glass there is a wide range of products highlighting textures, colors and is suitable for interior and exterior applications. Island Stone is a fresh alternative that makes a defining statement in residential and commercial spaces.
Island Stone's beauty runs deep. F
Island Stone is distributed in Memphis by Natural Stone and Tile 10545 Hwy 64 East Arlington, TN 38002 901-213-3422
David Lindsey is Showroom Manager
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Opening Doors
Don't Fool Yourself–Selling Your Home Today is a Contact Sport By Mary McFerrin
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s I sit down to write this article, it is impossible to ignore the state of the seller’s market. Although partnering with the best interest rates in 50 years, this current market has become a contact sport for sellers. Once upon a time, they could simply place a “for sale” sign in the yard, but today sellers must become decorators, landscape artists, painters, plumbers, and about everything else just short of sushi chef.
To seize the day, sellers must now roll up their sleeves, get down and dirty and entice their buyers by making a “good” home a “great” one. The first step is to list your home with a Realtor. Since it is undoubtedly one of your largest investments, why not hire a professional who has been educated and licensed to know how to buy and sell homes. Interview a few agents and ask for their opinions and marketing strategies. Most importantly, ask them to show their average days on the market for the successful close of their listings. Listing with an agent who only quotes the highest list price without having short, successful D.O.M. sale records is short-changing yourself. Triple digit days of maintaining a show-ready home can cause insanity! The better mind-set would be to make an unemotional business decision. If a loss is incurred, make it up on the buy side. Listen to your Realtor's advice. Incorrect pricing is the biggest mistake made today. Pricing high in anticipation of a low offer is not sensible, and unfortunately, pricing according to the seller’s purchase price is not justifiable. The price has everything to do with what is happening with the homes in the congruent location, which is to say the length they have been on the market and the price per square foot both listed and sold. The list price of the home should be set taking into consideration current market value. The price needs to be competitive and offer the better investment to entice a quick, successful sale. Preparing a home for show involves taking the home to the next level. You must first consider curb appeal. A first impression only happens one time. The drive-by is where buyers begin to form their opinion. The point is not only to have your home noticed, but remembered. As stated in a popular ad, “You Can’t Improve on Mother Nature?” To the contrary, I would implore you to please try. Cut, trim, remove leaves and mulch the landscape. Open the pool, maintain the wood deck, and “deep six” the tired
patio furniture cushions. Clean the front door, porch, windowsills and mailbox of cobwebs and dirt. Clean the gutters and the roof. Paint, if necessary. Clutter makes a home seem smaller. The Realtors' rule of thumb is that 50% needs to go to a storage unit, family member, garage sale, or to the street. Put away photos, clean off the magnet collection on the refrigerator, and group similar items for an aesthetically pleasing display. Purchase storage bins to hide clutter under the bed. Buyers need to be able to envision themselves in your home and will not care to see your collec-
“the point is not only to have your home noticed, but remembered” tion of personal belongings, even if you do have a prize collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia. The state of closets, kitchens and bathrooms can make or break a decision. Remove the floor mats, toss the old towels, replace the pulls, paint the cabinets and clean and organize them. A disorganized home appears to be a home that is not well maintained. Replace what is not staying with the home such as curtains or chandeliers. A buyer does not want to enter their potential dream home and be told what will not be included in their purchase. Painting is key. The home should be a neutral color. Most people have difficulty visualizing themselves in a home painted peacock purple or Heineken green. Repairs are a must in order to show a well-maintained home. Correct the obvious problems in the home, such as cracks in the ceiling, water stains, leaking faucets, electrical switches, and so on. Sparkle and shine sell! Hire a
cleaning crew as part of the investment. Countless times I have seen sellers show their property without cleaning the floors or sweeping the baseboards. I have seen million dollar homes with stained carpets and soap scum on the shower doors! Empty the trash cans and remove the mothballs, the pets and the litter box--the only odors should bring to mind fresh flowers or freshlybaked cookies. Do not forget to broadcast beneficial extras, such as energy efficient HVAC units, hidden wall safes, or updated appliances. Be flexible on show times. Out-of-town buyers may call last minute, and the home will not sell if it cannot be seen. In the end, showing a house is different from living in it. Concessions must be made by the seller. The operative question comes down to whether you want “to list or to sell.” After all this effort, when an offer is presented, do the best to make it work. The cat can be skinned in many ways. I have seen countless sellers who turned down offers in anticipation of achieving a certain price. Today, they still wait, kicking themselves all the while. Why would you not want the greatest return possible? Your hard work will pay off when the buyer walks through the door. F
Mary McFerrin is with Coleman-Etter, Fontaine Realtors 651 Oakleaf Office Lane Memphis, TN 38117 (901) 767-4100 (901) 680-7793 fax
April 2009 • 41
Art Under A Hot Tin Roof gallery from Jackson, TN proudly announces its second location coming to downtown Memphis ... ll7 S. Main Street next to Circa Restaurant
Art Under A Hot Tin Roof has been featured in Southern Living, including in its current April issue, and has been described in the magazine as “the unpredictable gallery.� We are known for a 35 ft. climbing sculpture on the building in Jackson, and a miniature version inside the foyer at ll7 South Main Street will help you see why Art Under a Hot Tin Roof has earned its reputation as unpredictable. There will be art for everyone .....so be watching out for the opening in soon.
OLD+NEW Story by Anne Cunningham O’Neill; photographs by Andrea Zucker
In this month’s Old + New, the two homes we are featuring could not be more different. The photographs show that one is traditional in style, both inside and out, with classic architectural elements from a bygone era, while the other is meant to usher in a high-tech and proudly “green” new dawn. Each, however, is unique and beautiful in its own right.
April 2009 • 43
OLD+NEW
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epresenting the “old” this month is an elegant midtown home whose current owners are antiques collectors and connoisseurs with exquisite taste and style. Upon entering, one is dazzled by the treasure trove of beautiful objects on display and the wealth of architectural detail that give the home its special character. The owners explained to VIP Memphis that their house had once belonged to a well-known antiques dealer and architectural historian, Maude Cawthon, who had used to great effect one-of-a-kind arti-
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facts, including antique hinges, ornate brass doorknobs, carved mantelpieces and newel posts, and neo-classical door frames, pediments, and crown moldings. Mrs. Cawthon was a woman ahead of her time. While architectural salvage is now the rage, and architects and contractors routinely implement old building materials in new homes, this was not always the case. As historic homes were increasingly falling into decrepitude and being razed in Memphis and surrounding areas, Mrs. Cawthon had the sense and sensibility to seek out and acquire irreplaceable hardware, fittings
and building materials that were more than likely headed for the trash heap. She famously resurrected them and used these fabulous finds to add vintage character, charm and a touch of class to many fine mid-twentieth century homes around the city. With her wealth of architectural knowledge, her passion for historic preservation and her discerning eye, she also helped with a number of restoration projects, including Dayton and Justine Smith’s transformation of the ramshackle antebellum Italianate mansion on Coward Place into their unforgettable Justine’s restaurant.
OLD+NEW
April 2009 • 45
OLD+NEW
urely by now everyone has read about the TERRA house in the Uptown neighborhood of Memphis. This home is the result of a project by the University of Memphis’s Department of Architecture which aimed to research, design, and build an environmentally friendly house. TERRA is an acronym for Technologically and Environmentally Responsive Residential Architecture. From the outside this two-story, 1,700 square foot house has a vaguely arts and crafts look to it, but everything about the house is ultra-modern with state-of-the art “green,” components such as in-
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sulated concrete construction, tankless water heater, metal roof system, solar panels, bamboo flooring, concrete counter tops with non-toxic water-based finishes, and our State’s first graywater recovery system. The two-bedroom plus office and two-bathroom house is open, airy and in a word, cool---in more ways than one. When VIP Memphis stopped by for a tour, it was a hot 84 degree day outside, but inside the temperature was a comfortable 68 degrees. Eric Criswell, one of the principal owners of DPC Construction, the general contractors on the university project, aimed to show that green could be beautiful and to demonstrate
the importance of sustainable, environmentally friendly design and construction. The mission of the house and the entire TERRA project is to educate the public and become a resource for similar eco-friendly construction. The house is being sold by Henry Turley Realtors, and we are told that the high interest it has garnered may mean that it will have been sold by the time this magazine is on the stands. However, judging from the success of this project, you can bet that more houses like it will be sprouting up both in the Uptown section and in other parts of the city. Carbon footprints step aside!
OLD+NEW
April 2009 • 47
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Memphis
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POWER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA ZUCKER
April 2009 • 49
FLOWERPOWeR
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FLOWERPOWeR
April 2009 • 51
COOkIng WITh Chef BEN VAUGHN
EATING LOCAL FOR
SPRING Story & Recipe by Chef Ben Vaughn; Photography by Jay Adkins
ith dogwoods blooming and wild flowers standing tall, the idea of pulling out the BBQ grill is fresh on our minds. We feel as though we have been in a coma for so long and are ready to escape our very own skin and delve into what Memphis has to offer. We seem ready to mark calendar dates for our first, second and third backyard cook-offs. The Fresh Market seems very busy, and the produce is beautiful and fresh and maybe just a few days from the vine. All of my excitement lies right here in the South and especially at this time of year. Folks listen up: it’s spring; it’s April; and “Oh my gosh have you seen the lineup for Memphis in May?” We are out and about all over town, eating out more often. I’m certain it’s important to mention your grocery budget just went up a buck or two. Memphis is an amazing place to experience in spring (especially if you have allergies!), but for this article we are discussing the new beginnings of all that our area has to offer from our incredible farms, farmers, chefs and restaurants. I can tell you that this city has a taste of exactly what you’re looking for. The best part of being able to enjoy the South and enjoying this spring season is being able to enjoy it as a local. It’s an important part of maintaining exactly what we treasure by shopping, eating and thinking locally. We have heard over the course of our problematic winter that our favorite this or that has closed. Memphians get local real quick, it’s a part of what we do, and it’s an important part of what we will be. I have the pleasure of serving Memphis as a Southern chef and although I was not born and raised in Memphis, I now call it home proudly.
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Spring represents a kind of “witching hour,” which is that magic window of time where rain is somewhat welcome and the smothering heat of summer is not yet at the door. We have the ability to go out and enjoy the incredible local markets, and to see and be seen everywhere--from downtown Memphis to as far as Walnut Grove will take you. In each area of the city we are blessed with fabulous restaurants and chefs that are hooked on this season and integrally involved with its bounty, and whose incredible menus are awaiting the season's freshest ingredients to become available. For this season our main assignment is to eat local. Allow yourself the pleasure of being treated to an amazing meal by some of the best
chefs and restaurateurs in the Delta. We are fighting for our local "this and that" for so many reasons. Within each of our neighborhoods there are more than enough small locally-owned and operated restaurants to keep us satisfied. The amazing truth is we need to practice local loyalty and find the little “joint” around the corner. Make your Saturday and Sunday full of adventure and meet some of the local farmers that keep us chefs stocked. I found this very true a few years ago when I really started making an effort to purchase and serve locally-produced foods at my restaurant, River Oaks. I have always taken great pride in finding incredible products from all over the globe and bringing those to the backdoor with FedEx or other similar carriers within days of being harvested, but what I failed to realize was what I put in I would surely get out. Instead of spinning my wheels finding products from outside the South, I decided to start writing menus based around the best locally grown ingredients. I found myself just like these farms and farmers, and cheese artisans in that we all shared the same problem. We all had the best products but didn’t have the customers to support our businesses. So with your spring resolutions in place, please take the time to find the new place you have only heard about but never tried, or to visit your favorite once a week bistro. This all may take some practice at first, so if you’re not used to the challenge, consider it a game. Eat your way around town, have fun and enjoy the people, places and food Memphis has to offer. Then, once you have the hang of enjoying your city from a local’s point of view, you will truly appreciate what has been prepared for you. F
COOkIng WITh Chef BEN VAUGHN
Frozen Florida Key Lime Soufflé River Oaks Restaurant, Chef Ben Vaughn Yield: 6 servings 6 egg yolks Finely grated zest of 1 key lime (or other lime, as available) 6 Tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice (or other lime juice, as available) 1 cup sugar 3/4 cup water 2 teaspoons light corn syrup 3/4 cup heavy cream Prepare collars for six 4-ounce ramekins or individual soufflé dishes: Cut strips of aluminum foil or parchment paper and secure them to the dishes with tape to make collars that extend 1 1/2 inches above the rims.
In a mixer bowl, combine the egg yolks and lime zest. Beat on high speed until very thick and pale. Slowly add the juice and continue beating on high speed for 3 or 4 minutes. While the yolk mixture is beating, combine the sugar, water and corn syrup in a small pan and heat to boiling. Add the boiling syrup to the yolk mixture and continue beating until cool. While this is mixing, beat the cream to stiff peaks in a large bowl and refrigerate. Fold the lime mixture into the cream until thoroughly incorporated. Pour the mixture into the prepared dishes and freeze at least 4 hours. Before serving allow softening for 10 minutes. Serve with fresh fruit and mint.
April 2009 • 53
SPRIngSELECTIONS
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen 712 W. Brookhaven Circle, Memphis, TN 38117 901-347-3569 www.amitaliankitchen.com
Chefs Michael Hudman & Andrew Ticer
Stuffed Squash Blossoms Over Creamy Polenta and Baby Fava Bean Ragu POLENTA 2 1/2 cups of water 1 cup of polenta Salt and Pepper Parmesan Reggiano Bring water to a boil and add polenta in a steady stream while constantly whisking. Stir polenta for 20 minutes and finish with salt and pepper and parmesan to taste. Keep polenta warm.
STUFFING 1 squash 1 zucchini 1 fennel bulb 1 small onion
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Buffalo mozzarella 2 cloves garlic Thyme and rosemary sprigs Salt and pepper
RAGU
Cut all vegetables above (small diced pieces); SautĂŠ all vegetables in olive oil for five minutes on low heat; cool vegetables; add cheese (small diced pieces).
Bring vegetable oil to 350 degrees; stuff blossoms; dredge in batter; fry for three minutes until crispy. Heat polenta and ragu; then place blossoms on top of polenta; finish with parmesan.
Batter 1 cup flour 2 T spoons chopped thyme Salt and pepper Soda water Mix all ingredients to a loose batter
[all ingredients from stuffing with fava beans] Add white wine and tomato paste; cook out wine; add vegetables and cook for five minutes; add fresh basil.
SPRIngSELECTIONS
Itta Bena Restaurant 143 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 (901) 578-3031 www.bbkingclubs.com
General Manager, Delair Biava
Grilled Lamb Lollipops Over a Toasted Mint Couscous Salad with Roasted Spring Vegetables — created by Chef Seth Krasnove serves four
THE LAMB: 3ea racks of lamb Slice through the lamb, in between the bones to create the lamb lollipops. Next, using a knife clean the bones completely so that the bones are naked. Season with olive oil, salt and pepper and grill to desired temperature.
MINT COUSCOUS SALAD: Israeli couscous 1ea large red pepper (small diced) 1ea large green pepper (small diced) 1 bunch fresh mint (*finely chopped) 1 bunch green onions (small dice on bias) ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 3 tbl olive oil
Place a large skillet over med to high heat and add 2 tbl olive oil; when the oil is hot add the couscous to the skillet and cook until toasted and golden. Add 2 ½ cups of water, bring to a simmer, cover, and continue to cook for about 12-14 minutes or until tender; strain and cool in fridge; once cooled combine with all other ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
ROASTED SPRING VEGGIES: 8 ea. baby carrots (with tops still on them) 8ea. patty pan squash 8ea. patty pan zuccini 6ea. cipollini onions (peeled) olive oil kosher salt fresh ground black pepper
fore adding the rest of the veggies (so they all finish at the same time); continue grilling for about 6-8 minutes or until all veggies are tender; serve hot and fresh.
ASSEMBLY OF THE PLATE: On a large platter place the couscous salad in the middle of the platter and surround the salad with the lamb lollipops. Garnish the platter with the grilled veggies in different spots around the platter. Share with family and enjoy!
Toss all veggies in a mixing bowl with the oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the onions first for about 6 minutes be-
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Fun and Games at Owen Brennan’s VIP Memphis attended the Shrove Tuesday celebration at Owen Brennan’s Restaurant which included all the beloved rituals, such as throwing of beads.
PEOPLE & PLACES Rowell at Majestic Grill The opening of the RK Rowell art show at Majestic Grill was a very special evening of art, wine and food. Guests were treated to a tasting of four Gundlach Bundschu wines. Rowell had created a beautifull label celebrating the life and music of New Orleans for the 2005 Vintage Reserve.
Austin Baker, Lawson Baker, Becky Crucifixio & Jim Baker
Lausanne's Evening of Jazz Deni Reilly, RK Rowell, Patrick Reilly
Soup was On at FedEx Forum Volunteers helped ladle out thousands of cups of soups, chowders, gumbos, and bisques from 40 generous area restaurants at the 20th annual Soup Sunday at FedEx Forum. Live entertainment and a children’s area with inflatables, games and face-painting stations were included as part of the fun. The event was organized to benefit Youth Villages, a Memphis-based nonprofit, which assists troubled children and their families. photography by Christina Trask
The Lausanne Alumni Association recently held an elegant and very successful evening of jazz to benefit the preservation of the school's 80-year history. Held in the ballroom of the Parkview, native Memphian, Courtney Lewis, who is a Lausanne alum (class of '64) and chanteuse extraordinaire, sang to the music of Gershwin, Cole Porter, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday and many other of the greats. Her band is Sounds Elite, which features Dominic Fosco on the keyboard. In addition, at this time,VIP Memphis would like to offer our congratulations to Lausanne Collegiate School for being selected as one of the five “Schools of Distinction” by the All Kinds of Minds Institute, a national not-for-profit organization based in North Carolina. This prestigious award recognizes schools around the world who have embraced the organization’s vision that when schools teach to how minds are wired to learn, every student can find success in school and life. Keep up the good work, we are Courtney Lewis ‘64 and her band Sounds Elite all very proud.
Will, Jim & Cindy Jaggers with Ben Halvorson
Daylight Fades There was a wrap party recently for the film Daylight Fades, which is the latest feature project of Old School Pictures. The city of Memphis played a role in that filming took place at a number of iconic locations.
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Lisa Marie Moore, August LeVangie & Laura Harbin
Hailey Giles & Michael Norris
Bragging on Chef Bragg The honors just keep on coming for Circa Restaurant and Chef John Bragg. A sampling: “Best of Memphis, Best Restaurant” by MEMPHIS MAGAZINE 2008/2009; “Best of Memphis, Best Chef” by MEMPHIS MAGAZINE 2008/2009; “Best of Memphis, Best Atmosphere by MEMPHIS MAGAZINE 2008/2009;
Bill Luckett, Irwin Magevney & Alston Meeks, Jr.
King Silky Sullivan Sings
“Best of Memphis, Best Wine List” by
Ground Zero in Clarksdale Where the Blues Were Born
Memphis's beloved Silky Sullivan was a King of the Mid City Krewe in this year’s Mardi Gras, and received a special letter from the New Orleans Mayor’s Office praising in particular his “great singing.”
MEMPHIS MAGAZINE 2008/2009;
Recently VIP Memphis friend Bill Luckett enjoyed
“Best of Memphis, Best Restaurant”
one of his favorite Memphis blues artist Reba
by MEMPHIS FLYER 2008 Readers
Russell at Clarksdale GZ. GZ is a regular touring
Choice; “Best of Memphis, Best Chef” by MEMPHIS FLYER 2008 Readers
This is your Life, Ralph Plumlee! Ralph Plumlee’s groovy 60th birthday surprise celebration was just that: groovy and a surprise! When Ralph entered the East Memphis home of Cynthia and Charles Thompson, 60 friends and family members decked out in tie dye, peace signs and love beads greeted him at the door. The celebration was planned by his lovely wife, Kini Kedigh Plumlee (well-known journalist about town and editrix of Le Bonheur magazine) who contacted friends from all walks of his life, many whom Ralph had not seen in more than a decade. Nora Burns and Hank Sable provided music from the Sixties – Dylan, Joni, the Byrds and the Beatles – while guests munched on Sixties fare – Rotel dip, meatballs and brownies. Memphis photographer Larry Kuzniewski snapped photos of guests in their groovy attire that included Grateful Dead t-shirts, headbands, Dashikis and even a McGovern for President button. “It was like walking through a web of time,” Ralph told friends afterwards.
Choice.
destination for blues artist and blues fans. The bustling club at the end of the cobblestone street has patrons from around the world who travel to be where the blues were born. GZ offers live music, a dinner menu and if you need a room afterward you can stay at Delta Cotton Company Apartments that are located upstairs.
Robert “Nighthawk” Tooms & Reba Russell
Spring Founders' Day Celebration The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary held a Founders' Day Celebration Coffee at Theatre Memphis. Highlights of the morning included a performance by Voices of the South, presentation of the annual “SALLIE” award, and modeling and sale of clothing from the Austin Peay Boutique. Esther Prieto & Major Rhea Woodcock
Ralph and Kini Plumlee
April 2009 • 57
fOR The LOVe Of WINE
In
Arthur’s Opinion…
IT'S a TOugh JOB* *But Someone's gotta Do It By Arthur Kahn complain sometimes, but I have a great job. My staff does all the heavy lifting (of boxes and customers!) while I focus on buying wine. At a typical trade show, I’ll spend four to six hours on my feet, visiting tables containing, each, a dozen wines— smelling, tasting, spitting, writing a note so that I can remember why I liked a wine and can describe it to a clientele that hasn’t shared the experience. One would think that to do or drink this job — and to be taken to dinner at a winery afterward, and to be paid for it — is to have landed in heaven. Well, let’s be unfashionably un-holistic and look at the particulars. Entering the large tasting hall and looking out over the fifty or so tables is daunting, damnit! That’s a lot of angry, young bottles in front of me, a whole weekend’s worth of stamina-draining wine tasting. First, I have to smell the wine, all the while ignoring the distracting winemaker/salesman babble about extended fermentations and wild yeasts. The first two or three Pinot Grigios show remarkable individuation, with varying doses of hay, lemon and minerals, perhaps even a touch of gunsmoke, or is it just smoke, or has the
I
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winemaker just returned from the back patio where all the Italians are smoking? By Pinot Grigio #28, I have to take a breath, a shot of blessed H2O, and then search out the bouquet in the glass, which otherwise simply seems white-winey. One would think, again, that the peak experience involves putting the wine in your mouth and drinking it but, no, we aren’t swallowing anything. (We are spitting into those nasty buckets containing the spit that was spat by previous spitters — and we’re dodging the backsplash!) And because I’m a very fast worker who has been known, on occasion, to record two hundred tastes in a day — the Tyreke Evans equivalent is a “triple double” — my palate begins to tire somewhere in the first quarter; and by the last minutes of the tasting I’m wearing the wine professional’s answer to the athlete’s pulled muscle: garishly purple lips, a tongue that feels as if it belongs in a larger mammal, and hands stained rudely as if I’ve been fingerpainting or peeling cooked beets. Mostly, I’m tired of standing, but there aren’t enough cabs in Chicago or even Manhattan — or there aren’t enough in the
shabby neighborhoods where trade shows are organized — to pick up all the attendees, smoking winemakers, owners and salesmen who have chosen the exact same moment to stand outside hailing taxis. Brilliant! It’s easy to convince myself that the thirteen block, brisk walk in freezing weather will be “bracing” (oh, it’s that), so that, landing at my hotel room half an hour after the last wine, I have plenty of time to read all of my notes and plan the next day’s attack. That’s right. With 125 wines tasted, I carefully review my notes and circle the 20-30 that I need to retaste to ensure my accuracy. And then I scan the list of all the untasted wines in order for tomorrow’s attack to be complementary of today’s selections. And then I confess to indulging myself in that guilty, big city pleasure that male lawyers traveling without wives tend to do (and I don't mean that Eliot Spitzer thing). I mean that I go straight for the deep dish pizza (if Chicago) or thin crust (if Manhattan) AND A DRAFT BEER. On second thought, maybe I should not be sharing this detail with the public. Oh well.