August 2015
Literatini GPAC Gala Big Wig Ball Taste of Caribe Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Ball RSVProfile with Mark Greaney
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Contents August 2015
From the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Signature Memphis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Shea Flinn, Sr. Vice President of the Chairman’s Circle at Greater Memphis Chamber, shares his favorite Memphis “thang” and more with RSVP.
GPAC Gala. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 In a Broadway themed event, guests participated in a live auction to raise money for GPAC’s educational outreach and community programs.
Ambassador Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
12
GPAC GALA Kenneth and Nancy Dick
Drew Holcomb: Home Again
Emily Adams Keplinger interviews musician and founder of the Moon River Festival about his development as an artist and how Memphis will always be home.
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 & 22
38
BIG WIG BALL Mike and Judith McGee
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She is reinvigorating the art of music television out of Memphis Studios. He is inviting all Memphians to try a new exciting sport. StreetSeens highlight Amy Wright and Adam Hite.
Taste of Caribe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The International Children’s Heart Foundation brought the taste of the islands to Memphis at this tropical bash.
RSVProfile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
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Native Memphian and author of the best selling Gray Man series, Mark Greaney elaborates on growing up in Memphis, pursuing his dreams and collaborating with a literary hero.
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36, 37, 60, 61 & 62 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.
24 Big Wig Ball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
TASTE OF CARIBE John and Janel Adams
Guests wigged out at this “fun-raiser” benefiting Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Literatini. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
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LITERATINI Marianne Mard and Peggy Gattas
Literacy Mid-South knows that nothing goes better with a good book than a stiff cocktail, especially when supporting adult learning programs in our community.
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Ball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Partygoers spread the love and support of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital at this soirée held at The Peabody Hotel.
RSVPhillippi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 This is Working Out
Dennis Phillippi does not exercise for the health benefits, but he has his reasons. Think whiskey and bacon with a hearty side of sweat.
RSVProfile Mark Greaney
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Cover Photo Patrick Boyer and Sara Dungan at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Ball Photo by Don Perry
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LE BONHEUR CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL BALL Alex Curry and Lauren Wilcox
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5
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Get away from it all and come home to this beautiful custom-built modern day farm house, nestled on 26 rolling acres and located only minutes outside of Collierville in Unincorporated Shelby County. The stunning 4 bedroom, 3 full and 2 half baths home has a media room and separate oversized bonus room over the 3 car garage. Some of the charming features of this home include antique reclaimed heart pine floors, custom kitchen featuring granite countertops, deep farm sink, gas cooktop, and central vacuum system throughout. This unique property features impeccable attention to detail with the all-natural wood doors, open floor plan, natural light provided by plentiful windows,vintage glass door knobs, wood burning fireplace, and oversized 9ft wide entry hall. You’ll feel like you’re on a constant vacation enjoying the custom designed pool with fountains while gazing over the 26 acre farm. This Equestrian Enthusiast’s dream also boasts a separate apartment attached to the 9 stable horse barn that includes a 1 bedroom apartment with bath, living room, kitchen, and laundry room. The horse barn has 9 fully equipped stables for all your equestrian needs and opens up to the irrigated riding arena which overlooks the cattle pasture and pond. For those looking for the farm house feel with modern day amenities, look no further than 546 N. Collierville-Arlington Rd.
For an exclusive view of this estate visit www.546ColliervilleArlington.com
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Equestrian Enthusiast’s Dream
RSVP Staff Volume XX
Number XI
August 2015 publisher
Roy Haithcock Editor
Rachel Warren contributing writers
Emily Anderson Virginia Davis Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young art director
Chris Pugh Account Executive
Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.
Krista Geyer photographers
Daniel Frederick Patrick Lantrip Don Perry Steve Roberts account executives
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Chris Pugh Robin Morgan
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accounting
Ruth Cassin Editorial Intern
Ellen Cassin
DAILY WALK-IN CLINIC MONDAY - FRIDAY 9am to 4pm
AT ALL LOCATIONS
901.381.4MOG (4664)
RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact Roy Haithcock Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax (901) 276-7785 e-mail publisher@rsvpmagazine.com web
www.rsvpmagazine.com
For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event. Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 E-mail: editor@rsvpmagazine.com
Robin Morgan Account Executive
Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious, and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girlfriends. Robin’s “bright spot” is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!
Krista Geyer Art Director
Krista has spent most her entire life in the Mid-South area. She moved home after earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University and is thrilled to be able to work on something as “Memphis” as RSVP Magazine. When not working you can probably find Krista at Shelby Farms with her husband and her dogs or riding her horses.
Follow us on:
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Ellen Cassin
memphisorthogroup.com
Editorial Intern
North - Central - Germantown - Riverdale - East
Copyright 2015 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
Ellen is a native Memphian who currently resides in Nashville. She received her Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Spring Hill College. Her interests include sports, public policy, and anything crafty. She is excited to be with RSVP as the editorial intern and in her spare time you can either find her with a book in her hand or playing with her dog, Mae.
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From the Editor
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ugust in Memphis is a little bit slower than other months. Memphians are enjoying the last little bit of summer by finally taking that vacation or returning from that vacation. Parents and children are preparing for another year of school. And while most school children are relishing their last free days, many parents are probably counting down the days when they can drop the little ones off at school again and return to a more routine schedule. It is a month of thought and looking ahead to a new season and busier weeks. August is a good time to take a look at your goals and dive into the things that, if you are like me, you have maybe not put as much steam into as you would’ve liked to during the easy days of summer. Maybe it is finishing writing your novel or finishing your Pinterest DIY home remodeling plan. Maybe it is simply cleaning out your email inbox or reconnecting with a friend. Whatever it is, August is a month that allows us to sit back and reevaluate the things that are important to us and gives us the time to finish these tasks before September comes crashing in. For this issue, we have featured some August go-getters that are using their time to finish and continue projects close to their hearts. Memphis author and bestseller of the Gray Man series, Mark Greaney (page 30) is working on several new books and will be a presenting author at the Mid-South Book Fest on September 9-13. Adam Hite (page 20) of the Memphis Bike Polo Club is inviting all Memphians to grab their bikes and try something new. Amy Wright (page 22) is working hard to promote and expose Americana and Roots artists through her webcast, DittyTV. Musician Drew Holcomb (page 18) is throwing the second annual Moon River Festival on August 15 at the Levitt Shell. Here is wishing everyone a thoughtful and productive August!
Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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S IGN AT UR E M EM PHIS
S hea F linn
Sr. Vice President, Chairman’s Circle , Greater Memphis Chamber Hometown: Memphis, TN. Place You Go
to
Think: The office.
First Car You Owned: Nissan 200 SX. Your Best Quality: Listening to my wife. Favorite Place
to
Travel: Puerto Rico.
Proudest Moment
of
Your Life: To be determined.
Best Advice You Ever Got: “If it’s to be, it’s up to me.” Favorite Song: “The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis & the News.
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Your Most Annoying Habit: When I don’t listen to my wife. Who Would Play You
in a
Movie: Probably somebody British.
Best Memphis Hangout: Liberty Bowl during a Tiger Football game. Something You’ll Never Live Down: Being on the Memphis City Council. One Goal You’d Still Like The Highlight
of
to
Accomplish: Beating Greg Akers at Trivia Crack.
Your Day: Having breakfast with my family. It’s all downhill from there.
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Differentiating between when it’s the humidity or the heat. A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite Best Thing About
the
to
Dinner: Leonardo da Vinci.
Chamber’s Chairman’s Circle: Seeing Memphians dream big for Memphis.
Photo by Steve Roberts
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Favorite Southern Idiom: “Hold my beer and watch this.”
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EVENT
GPAC Gala
GPAC GALA
“Give My Regards to Broadway”
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Ron South and Deni Hirsch
Hanna and Rafael Durand
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Honey and Rudi Scheidt
Paul and Jennifer Chandler
Members of Watoto De Afrika performed in the parking lot of the Germantown Performing Arts Center as approximately two hundred guests arrived for the 2015 GPAC Gala, themed “Give My Regards to Broadway.” In addition to the dance troupe, Level Nine Services greeted guests with complimentary valet parking, and the crowd enjoyed a “Champagne Welcome” as well as hors d’oeuvres by Just Catering. John Felix and Donna Wolf provided musical entertainment while guests mingled among the silent auction items that filled the center’s lobby. With a call to dinner, guests processed into the Duncan-Williams Performance Hall for a seated dinner onstage. The 2015 Gala Chairmen were Susan and Damon Arney, Helen Scheidt Gronauer, Laurie and Elkan Scheidt, and Caryn and Rudi Scheidt Jr. The meal, catered by Amerigo Italian Restaurant, was divided into “acts” and included a light gazpacho soup shooter in “Act One” as well as grilled chicken and roasted salmon in “Act Two.” The “Finale” was a dessert trio consisting of peanut butter crunch cake, Mississippi chess cake with fresh berries, and milk chocolate mouse with walnut crumble and fresh whipped cream. Of course, Broadway tunes entertained the crowd as they dined. Afterwards, auctioneer Jeff Morris took center stage to lead the group through a live auction. Items up for bid included a guitar autographed by a “Who’s Who” list of country music superstars. A “buyer’s choice” item let the high bidder have their pick from five different pieces of jewelry offered by Mednikow Jewelers. Trips to Key West and Havana, Cuba were hotly contested, as were tickets for two courtside seats at a Memphis Grizzlies game next year. In addition to the excitement of the auction, the announcements of this year’s award recipients brought the crowd to its feet. Dr. Rebecca Barton, one of the founding members of the GPAC Guild, was recognized with the Chairman’s Award. Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo was honored with the 2015 Patron of the Arts Award. A special tribute was paid to Honey and Rudi Scheidt Sr. for their life-long support of the arts. Topping off the event was a full performance of Neil Berg’s “102 Years of Broadway.” The 2015 Gala Host Committee was comprised of Pam and Dr. Esmond Arrindell, Susan and Bob Baker, Joey and Dr. Neal Beckford, Anise and Ron Belz, Marilyn and Jack Belz, Donna and Roy Cohen, Sandra and Jack Jones, Margaret and Jimmy Lackie, Martha and Gary Lendermon, Gloria and Douglas Marchant, Dina and Brad Martin, Milton Schaeffer, Kathy Simonetti, Shiela Vinczeller and Ferenc Paller, and Jeanette and Bill Watkins. Adding to the fund-raising efforts of the evening, there was a wine pull coordinated by members of the GPAC Guild, and speciality drinks were offered for a chance to win a $1,000 gift certificate to Mednikow Jewelers. Proceeds from the evening will be used to support the programs and educational outreach that GPAC provides to the community. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Patrick Lantrip
Dr. Esmond and Pam Arrindell with Joey and Dr. Neal Beckford
Roy and Donna Cohen
Kelli Zimmerman and Mike Palazzolo
Kathy Simonetti and Kenny Armstrong
Bob and Susan Baker
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EVENT GPAC GALA
Jim and Linda Lloyd
Melissa Cole and John Farris
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Adam and Christine Cohen
Sheri and Jack Bearden
Bobby and Ashley Preskenis
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Al and Janet Lyons
Myrna and Dr. Joe Levy
Julie and Lawson Arney
Marjean and Richard Kremer
Cynthia and Roel Smit
Laleh and Amir Azari
EVENT GPAC GALA Yasmine Omari and Kelly Owens
Jeff and Rochelle Fenton
Chip and Debbie Marston
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Jack Simmonds and Barbra Posner
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Val Kelly, Shirley Hardin and Jerry Johnston
Cindy and Terry Crosby
Kenneth and Nancy Dick
EVENT GPAC GALA
Nancy Russell and Turner Foster
Bill and Joyce Hudspeth
Drs. Diane and Tom Long
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Deborah and Stephen White
Matthew John and Jeanette Guido
Ricky Paller and Ariel Walker
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Richard Todd Adams and Rita Harvey
Sherry, Dale and Natalie Jones
Sherrie Nischwitz and Sharon Dertien
Verline and Kelly Armstrong
Tommie Pardue, Pat Massengill and Cindy Dorian
EVENT F i n e Wo m e n ’ s A p pa r e l
GPAC GALA
Jeanette and Wayne Darling
Jeffrey and Lori Goldberg
New fall Arrivals!
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Chirag and Mandy Chauhan with Angie and Matt Keathley
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Liz Sharp and Laura Sharp
Kathy and Dr. Harold Kavoussi
Diane and Wendell Kruse
Kirk and Anne Caraway
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The Ambassador Series By Emily Adams Keplinger
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Drew Holcomb: Home Again
he saying is: “You can’t go home again.” But for musician Drew Holcomb, that’s just not true. He won’t let it be that way. In fact, he makes it a point to return home to Memphis as often as possible, and this August he’s bringing his fan base with him. Holcomb, a native Memphian and graduate of Evangelical Christian School (class of 2000), first left Memphis to attend college at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. After graduating in 2003, Holcomb came back home for what he thought was going to be a one or two year diversion before settling down in graduate school or law school. He wanted to live out his dream of being a musician. Holcomb recalls, “I first picked up a guitar in seventh grade and never put it down. I grew up with great records: Otis Redding, Bob Dylan and music from Stax Records. For me, music was always more from the heart than the head. I had a few obligatory piano lessons in my youth but was mostly self-taught on guitar. I started writing my own songs while I was in college.” After college, Holocomb says he came back and connected with a studio in East Memphis. “Paul Ebersold had broken from Ardent Studios and started his 747 Studios on Brookhaven Circle. Mostly, I was playing as a solo act at places like the P&H Cafe, the Brookhaven Pub & Grill and the Hi-Tone. Occasionally, I would hire others to play with me, that’s how I reconnected with Nathan Dugger. Dugger attended Houston High and played guitar and piano. In the spring of 2004, just before he graduated from high school, we started out like every other garage band from Memphis and soon we were on the road,” Holcomb recalls. He says he first left Memphis to go back to Knoxville “to see about a girl.” That girl was Ellie Bannister, now Holcomb’s wife of nine years. Holcomb became a regular at hot spots like New City Cafe and The Square Room in Knoxville’s revitalized downtown area. After they married, Ellie’s job as a teacher took them to Nashville. Holcomb found that Nashville was a great city for him as a musician. Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors formed in 2006 and soon started their own record label, Magnolia Music. The band was already playing mostly original music and touring the Southeast on the “college coffeehouse circuit.” Dugger had become the musical director of the band. Rich Brinsfield came on board as the bass player. The group also included a drummer and a piano player, roles now held by Jon Womble and Grant
Pittman, respectively. The pivotal moment came when a lot of Holcomb’s songs started getting used by others. The proverbial “big break” came when Holcomb’s songs were picked up by national TV shows. Some songs provided the musical background for dramatic scenes for shows like “Parenthood” and “Criminal Minds.” Other songs took center stage, like “What Would I Do Without You,” the theme song for characters Robin Scherbatsky and Barney Stinson on
Photo by: Eric Ryan Anderson
“How I Met Your Mother.” “House, M.D.” fans recognize Holcomb’s musical talent in the tune “Live Forever” that served as the music for the series’ finale commercial. All in all, Holcomb estimates that his original music has been used on over 40 shows in the last six to seven years. “What some may call ‘stubborn’ paid off as persistence. I really loved writing songs. I had written at least 40 to 50 songs before I recorded my first album. Even in our early days on college tours, we played mostly original music with a few cover songs mixed in. For me, it was always about performing my own songs. I felt I could steer my own path if I could make my own music,” Holcomb says. Holcomb toured, talking his wife into going on the road with him after a year of teaching. The years passed with relentless touring, approximately 2,000 shows in 12 years. The band
served as the opening act for other musicians such as Marc Broussard, The Avett Brothers and John Hiatt. Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors built their own following, becoming headliners themselves, by 2007 in the South, and nationwide by 2012. Ellie traveled with him for eight years, even taking the stage herself and claiming the best New Artist of the Year award last year for her Christian album “As Sure as the Sun.” When their first child, Emmylou, was born, she saw 35 states in her first six months of life. But now their family resides in a historic neighborhood in East Nashville, awaiting the soon-to-be arrival of their second child. While on the road, Holcomb takes bits of Memphis with him. First there’s the Mednikow watch he received as a gift and there’s a refrigerator that is continuously stocked with “Tiny Bomb” from Memphis craft brewery Wiseacre Brewing (co-owner Kellan Bartosch is one of Holcomb’s college buddies). So while Holcomb currently resides in Nashville, he resounds, “Memphis will always be my home. The best thing about Memphis is the people. Memphis is one of those towns that you can’t really know what it is like until you go there, and then you need to learn about it from the locals. I think it is really one of the great American cities.” Holcomb is hoping to host a down-home reunion for fans from all over the country who may or may not know much about Memphis. On August 15, at The Levitt Shell, Holcomb will host the second annual Moon River Music Festival. “I hope to introduce non-Memphis fans to Memphis and to introduce Memphis fans to other bands that we have met out on the road. For us, it really will be like a family reunion,” Holcomb explains. “We want this festival to be a reflection of the spirit of Memphis: a low-key, family affair. We want to continue to make this an annual event.” If you go, listen up for Holcomb’s favorite song, one he includes in every show. He notes, “It’s a song I wrote for my wife, but it’s not just a love song. ‘What Would I Do Without You’ is about how we all need each other. This song seems to resonate with people – it’s our most popular song on iTunes.” The festival will start at 12:30 p.m. with Ellie joining Holcomb for an acoustic set. Then Holcomb will assume the role of emcee as seven other bands take the stage throughout the day. Count on local food trucks and Wiseacre Brewing to keep refreshments on tap. Tickets for the festivals are available at www.drewholcomb.com or www.moonriverfestival.com.
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Am y Wrig ht DittyTV: Bringing Back Music TV
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here used to be a time when you could watch music videos on MTV. Today the music channel that changed the world offers a whole lot of everything except, well, music. A lot has changed for music videos and people today are more likely to watch their favorite artists and their music videos on video sharing sites like YouTube. In most cases, though, the music videos you are searching for are probably by artists you are already familiar with. The days of tuning in and catching fresh, new videos from up and coming artists are gone. Or are they? Amy Wright, along with her husband Ronnie, heard the calling for television that showcases musical artists. Together, the Wrights founded Memphis Studios and launched DittyTV, an Americana and Roots music genre focused network that is broadcast via the Internet, where viewers from all over the world can tune into live music performances and watch music videos. And it is all happening right here in Memphis. Amy Wright, COO of DittyTV, says that she and Ronnie, president of DittyTV, come from backgrounds of technology and music, and they were inspired to see if they could “effectively broadcast a live musical performance via the web in High-Definition in a way that was beautifully shot.” Today, like MTV for Americana and Roots artists, the two have successfully done just that but on the web. DittyTV is not only streaming live on their website, www.dittytv.com, but viewers can also tune in with their smart phones, smart TVs, Tivo or through their Roku media player. The best thing about it? It’s all free. People from all over the world can use almost any device to watch premium music videos and live performances of established and emerging Roots and Americana artists on DittyTV. “We remember MTV when MTV was actually music and videos. Artists are still making and producing these unbelievably artistic music videos that they are posting on YouTube. YouTube is great, but you have to actually know that artist to go find that video. At DittyTV, we are curating the music for people, presenting them with artists that they may not have been familiar with previously as well as those they know and love,” Amy explains in the converted downtown loft that is now Memphis Studios, which includes both production and studio facilities as well as the couple’s living quarters. Like vintage MTV, DittyTV includes VJs who guide the viewer through handpicked selections, providing information about artists and bands and making personal connections with viewers. Many of the VJs, Amy comments, are also musicians themselves and some take viewers on the road with them as they tour. Unlike classic MTV, DittyTV takes viewer interaction to a new level. Viewers have the ability to chat online with each other and VJs during live performances and music videos. Bands from all over the world are making a pit stop during their tours to hang out at the Memphis Studios and perform for a small live audience as well as a huge digital audience. Amy says, “When there is an in-house studio audience, it is a really intimate experience for them, and they are getting to see music in a way that I think all music should be seen – in a really small environment. We try to create that same experience for the folks that are watching online. As much as we can, we want the online audience members to feel that they are a part of the in-studio experience as well.” Recent artists have included James McMurty, Martin Sexton, Yonder Mountain String Band, The Grahams with Cody Dickinson, and Deering & Down. “We feel very lucky that we are able to work with all these folks and promote them. We can see the excitement of our viewers grow when an artist is coming through to do a live performance after we have had their music video in rotation. They are starting to get familiar with their music by watching their videos,” Amy notes. Catch all the great Americana and Root music on DittyTV on its website or with any of your smart devices. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts
Amy Wright onstage at Memphis Studios
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Celebrating 44 Years!
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Adam Hite Memphis Bike Polo Club Welcomes You
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n the last couple of years, cycling has become bigger and bigger in Memphis, and, with it, a new sport is catching speed and is inviting all Memphians to participate in the fun. All you need is a bike and some good competitive spirit. And probably a helmet. “There are some people that pad from head to toe, and there are some people that don’t wear anything. Last week, a guy took a good shot at me and hit me square in the facemask. I was just real excited about my facemask because, without it, my teeth might have been knocked out,” Adam Hite, Memphis Bike Polo Club member and Regional Representative of the Southeast Region of the North American Bike Polo Association, says, explaining that while helmets are not required during the club’s casual meetups, they are required in tournaments and official bike polo games. OK, so a facemask is something you might want to have too. But, Hite, who is also web developer for Archer Malmo, says the club tones things down for newcomers and beginners if they join them at their parking lot turned court at Bluff City Sports in the Cooper-Young district, adding that no one will be turned away and everyone is welcome to play and learn the sport. The club will let folks borrow a mallet and demonstrate all the basics. Hite notes, “One cool thing about bike polo is that it is co-ed for all levels, even up to the world championship. It makes it interesting because there are not that many sports that are co-ed, especially team sports.” Hite adds, that while it is a contact sport, there are strict checking rules. For each match it is usually three on three with two goals and the first to score five points wins. Most teams play on a hardcourt like their club does. Hite promises, “If you show up on a bike, we can get you in the game.” Hite says he has always been a bike enthusiast and got interested in the game five years ago when some friends invited him out to play with them. “I just showed up and thought, ‘Oh this is like hockey on bikes.’ It was really hard at first. I was really bad, but I just got obsessed with it and kept playing,” Hite remarks. Hite’s obsession with the sport and his determination to expose Memphians to bike polo hasn’t faltered. This August, the Memphis Bike Polo Club is hosting a tournament, “South in Your Mouth II,” which will be held on August 29-30th at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in conjunction with the Meritan Midnight Classic Bicycle Tour. Hite says that at the last tournament Memphis Bike Polo hosted, people from more than 11 states participated in the tournament, and he expects to be close to that number or better this year. For the third time, Hite’s polo team, Broken Bones, will be playing in the North American Championship this September in Kentucky, in which the top qualifiers will play for the World Championship in New Zealand. It is clear that bike polo will continue to grow. Try out your bike and mallet skills and join the club when they play at the Bluff City Sports parking lot on Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30 p.m. Stay updated about all the Memphis Bike Polo Club games at their website www.memphisbikepolo.com and their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/memphisbikepolo. Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Steve Roberts
AUGUS T 2015
23 RS VP
EVENT
Taste of Caribe Benefiting the International Children’s Heart Foundation
Taste of Caribe
A
AUGUS T 2015
Randa Blenden and Dr. Rodrigo Soto
Emily Barker and Brandon Gray
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s Memphis heats up this summer, it may be hard to stop dreaming of sandy beaches, cool breezes, and fruity drinks. International Children’s Heart Foundation (ICHF) brought the tropics to Memphis at its 11th annual Taste of Caribe event, helping Memphians make their island fantasies a reality without ever leaving the city. The party was located at the offices of Askew, Nixon and Ferguson, a historic mansion on Union Ave. With the convenient option of two outdoor seating areas or the air-conditioned indoors, guests strolled through the party at their leisure. The rear garden featured an array of sumptuous food and a bar, whereas the side garden contained another bar, patio tables, a stage with live music and a dance floor. Inside the venue was an additional dance floor with a DJ and professional dancers to teach key tips to Salsa! The best part of the party was, of course, the purpose of supporting ICHF. The CEO of Clinical Operations, Dr. Rodrigo Soto heartwarmingly summed up the nonprofit’s purpose when he said, “What we’re able to do is unbelievable. If we don’t go, these kids will die. The best weeks of the year are when I can donate my time to travel and help these kids.” With over 7,600 surgeries all over the world – North America, Europe, Central America, Asia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa – this group of doctors, nurses and dedicated volunteers is making an incredibly huge and lasting difference. The main sponsor of the evening was the Bacardi Family Foundation, providing the “Spirit For Life” and the tropical spirits for the party. Adding to the relaxed Caribbean atmosphere was Havana Mix Cigar Emporium, offering cigars for guests to enjoy during the night. A dash of Memphis culture was thrown in by “Turkey Man,” the chef who provided the barbeque and rice and bean dishes to snack on and by John D’Amato, a live blues music artist. Phancy Photo Booth gave attendees a chance to have their memories captured within a fun palm tree setting and Memphis Rumba got the Salsa dancing going. Metro Graphics and Madison Dance Studio also served as sponsors, and there was a silent auction including island art by Michael Maness. All proceeds benefited ICHF. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Michelle Harp and Tim Doyle
Story by Emily Anderson Photos by Daniel Frederick
Peris Miller and Rick Grove
Glenn Freeman and Tracey Russell
Tom and Allison Freeman
Nica Rubin and Nick Askew
Tracey Raynon, Anthony Audin and Sydney Ahearn
Cindy Flippen and Angela Flippen
EVENT Taste of Caribe
Trish and Chris Spalding
Dr. Charles and Miosotis Caamario Sabourin
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Alice Higdon and Edgardo Henry
25 RS VP
David Moeslein, Jessica Moeslein and Jennifer Moeslein
Rosiane Fernandes and John Green
Cathy Wood and Abbey Harris
EVENT Taste of Caribe AUGUS T 2015
Gloria Solis and Jesser Solis Contreras
Ken Zimmerman and Ginger Livingston
Nancy and Kerry Deacon
Denise Butler and Katrina Paolini
Alex Flores and Holly Ford
Sara and Daniel Allen
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Lauren and John D’Amato
Lisa and Jody Brown with Annette Askew
Jackie and Alex Evans
Jai Tanghal and Mandi Meredith
Sam Linne, Camille Spaulding and Paris Johnson
EVENT Taste of Caribe
Ken and Tamara Goff
Rebecca and Craig Conrad
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Mary Fisher, Jenna Fisher and Angie Lewis
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Jeanne Glemser and Alyssa Holliday
Terri and Ron Privette
Dorothy Brown with Chris and Crystal Smith
EVENT Taste of Caribe
Rod Brown, Kevin Smith and Timmothye Lee
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Carmen Reyes, Mercedes Moffit and Valerie Harbor
Tim and Angie Dries
Joni Poynter and Lauren Hanna Ford
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Sarah Erlandson and Tyler Hutcherson
Ann Frassinelli, Jess Welch, Ben Jackson and Grady Ferguson
Annette and Steve Green
Jim Bruce and Amanda Harris
Nermin Hodzic, Jessica Simmons and Niko Prskalo
EVENT Taste of Caribe
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John and Janel Adams
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The fight was on. The fact that Court didn’t have a clue what they were fighting over was a nonissue. He did not waste a single brain cell pondering this turn of events. Court Gentry was a killer of men. These were his men. And that’s all there was to it. (New York: Penguin Group (USA) Inc., 2009. Print.) These punchy lines are from an excerpt of author Mark Greaney’s 2009 debut thriller “The Gray Man,” the first book of a series that escorts readers all over the world as protagonist Court Gentry, “The Gray Man,” acts as an international gun for hire. Bad guys are Gentry’s focus, but local author Greaney’s focus is crafting fastpaced scenarios and thrilling twists for readers as they follow Gentry through his action-packed world of spies, lies and alibis. “The Gray Man” is a national bestseller and was the catalyst that propelled Greaney into the literary world. The novel went on to be nominated for a Barry Award, as did his second book in the series “On Target.” Greaney wrote two more books in the series, “Ballistic” and “Dead Eye.” He will be releasing his fifth book in the Gray Man series in February of 2016. Additionally, Greaney co-authored three books, part of the Jack Ryan series, with author Tom Clancy before his death in 2013. Greaney continued the Jack Ryan series after Clancy’s passing, producing two books that were greedily read by Clancy fans. Never one to do anything halfway, Greaney extensively travels for every book he writes, delving into new cities, cultures and areas, as well as training alongside local military and law enforcement. He has also devoted himself to understanding the use of firearms and combat tactics. Like his character of Court Gentry, Greaney is a force to be reckoned with. He knows his market and, after years of hard work to get the first Gray Man book completed and published, taking a giant leap of faith to write full-time and collaborating with one of the best thriller writers in the business, Greaney is quickly becoming one of the biggest names in the industry. Greaney could live anywhere. But he has chosen to stay in his hometown of Memphis, the city that nurtured his talent and the place that inspired his passion for
Mark Greaney in his study at his Memphis home
RS VPROfile AUGUS T 2015 RS VP
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Brush Contact with Mark Greaney: A Literary Assassin and Memphis Author
reading, prompting him to pen his own exciting tale. “For the publishing industry, living in New York is a great thing, but for no other aspect in my life do I want to live up there. I grew up with my dad taking me to the East Memphis branch of the library. I spent a big part of my youth there as well as in the main library. In that respect, Memphis is a great place to be a reader. My writing developed out of that,” Greaney says. Greaney says he had always fantasized about becoming an author but admits, at the time, “I wasn’t doing any hard work at it.” He notes, “I was a big reader, and I would always tell myself that as soon as I finish this novel, I am going to get started on mine. That went on for years.” Eventually, Greaney sat down and started to pen his first novel, which took 15 years to finish. And, while that book was never published, it inspired him to try again. He says that despite the long time it took him to complete the first book, the entire process was one that taught him what it takes to write a book and what a marketable novel looks like. “I realized my book was too long, and it had too many characters. I immediately wrote another. It took me seven months to write the second novel,” Greaney says. But Greaney wasn’t done yet. He found an agent, Scott Miller, who took a look at his second novel and advised Greaney to write a book
that was more marketable, with the apt advice to pump-up the action scenes. “I decided, ‘I am going to try it.’ So I tried it. By the end of the book every scene was like that. That became the story,” he says, explaining that The Gray Man series contains that careful balance between “realism and fantasy,” in which Court Gentry and the dangerous scenarios that he finds himself in invite the reader into a suspension of disbelief that is successfully anchored by the series’ realistic portrayals of recent geo-political events and current global leaders. Greaney wrote two more books. The last book eventually became “The Gray Man,” published in 2009 by the Penguin Publishing Group, with the character of Court Gentry working for the CIA and taking down evildoers across the globe. Greaney was soon contracted to write two more Gray Man books for the series. He says, while the money for his new and upcoming books weren’t quite “quit your job money,” he quickly realized he had to quit his job to get the books done. “It was scary. It was a total leap of faith,” Greaney recalls. Soon after that, though, the movie rights for “The Gray Man” sold. His first series went on to thrill readers that became devoted fans, propelling his fulltime writing career. It was on a trip when the idea for a character that would eventually become the mysterious freelance assassin “The Gray Man”
AUGUS T 2015
aka Court Gentry came to Greaney. While studying Spanish in Guatemala, Greaney says he took a weekend trip to El Salvador, and it was there that a haphazard sighting of a mysterious man sitting in a little bar acted as the inspiration for the protagonist Court Gentry. “It was just weird to see him there because he obviously wasn’t there to surf, and he obviously wasn’t a language student. He looked like a Special Forces guy that left the army yesterday. I just made up this whole fantasy for him. He was CIA, but, for some reason, the CIA was trying to kill him so he has had to live off the grid.” Court Gentry became a character that walks the line between hero and villain, working as a contracted killer who only kills those he feels “deserve it” such as corrupt leaders and evil dictators. “Court Gentry’s moral compass is not the same as ours,” Greaney says. In 2011, Greaney’s agent approached him with a surprising opportunity – work with Tom Clancy on his new Jack Ryan novel. The news took Greaney aback. “I always say that I wish I had been like, ‘Yea!’ Instead, I remember thinking, ‘How am I going to get out of this?’ At first, I was intimidated by the thought of it,” Greaney, a huge fan and avid reader of Clancy, remarks. Fortunately, he jumped at the chance to work with an author whose novel “Patriot Games” is cited by Greaney as the first novel he purchased with his own money. Greaney tried out for the co-author spot, using his extensive Clancy character knowledge, gained through years of reading and re-reading Clancy’s works, to write a sample piece for the literary giant. Needless to say, Greaney got the job.
31 RS VP
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Your 10-game-winning, conference-trophy-hoisting, top-25-finishing Memphis Football Tigers are back. Get all six home games—including Ole Miss on October 17—for just $89. Plus, rack up the rewards of a 901 Club season ticket holder. Join the 901 by August 16 for: • Season-long savings at 901-area partners like Tiger Bookstore, Mapco, Jet’s Pizza® and Supercuts • Exclusive events like 901 Club Family Photo Night, Coach Fuente Chalk Talk, and more • Bonus tickets to select Memphis Football games • Discounted access to the TSF Tailgate Tent on Tiger Lane on game day • Special drawings for Tigers memorabilia, tailgate catering, free road game travel, Tigers fan gear and much more
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Greaney with faithful companion, Lobo.
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Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Steve Roberts
AUGUS T 2015
on. Then I have to give them the bad news. The reason they moved on to something new is because they wrote the 90 percent that is easy to write. That last 10 percent, that connective tissue, the solving the problems that you have set up for yourself, that is where it is really tough. I say this, not because I am a wise person, but because I am one of those people that messed up for so long, and I have spent so long working on a book that I never finished,” Greaney states. Fortunately for Greaney, his hard work and dedication to the craft has paid off. “Every year has gotten better than the last, thank goodness. There is no job security at all. You just count your blessings and work as hard as you can.” And Greaney is working hard. In February of 2016, he will release his fifth Gray Man book, “Back Blast,” which Greaney says will take readers back to the U.S. as Gentry tries to find out why the CIA has been after him all these years. Expect deep espionage says Greaney. A sixth Gray Man book is also planned for 2017. A feature film adaptation of “The Gray Man” is in development by Columbia Pictures with “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” directors Joe and Anthony Russo, who wrote the screenplay for “The Gray Man.” Here in Memphis, Greaney will be part of a panel of presenting authors at the Mid-South Book Fest (September 9-13), where he will be chatting with festival attendees and answering questions. Catch Greaney at the Mid-South Book Fest and pick up a copy of his newest books, “Commander-in-Chief” and “Back Blast,” when they are released in December 2015 and February 2016. Can’t wait for the film adaptation for “The Gray Man”? Now is a good time to re-read Greaney’s Gray Man series.
RS VPROfile
Together, Greaney and Clancy wrote “Locked On,” “Threat Vector” and “Command Authority.” The two traveled around the world, conducting research for both novels (something Greaney was already doing for his Gray Man series), and delving deep into the military and governmental histories and current events of each area. In 2013, Clancy passed away, and Greaney continued Clancy’s Jack Ryan legacy by writing “Support and Defend” and “Full Force and Effect,” and he will be releasing his third solo Clancy book, “Commander-in-Chief,” this December. When asked if writing within Clancy’s world after the author’s death presented any challenges, Greaney comments, “I told myself at the beginning, after he passed away, not to write like Clancy. Not that I would have tried anyhow, but I decided that people want a story in that vein with Clancy’s unique characters, and that they want it smart, fun and action-packed, all those things that they wanted before.” It seems, by all accounts, to have worked. Fans continue to enthusiastically support the Jack Ryan series, excited to see what adventures the Jack Ryan world will encounter next. Overall, Greaney says that working with Clancy as well as being familiar with Clancy’s impressive library of works has helped him as a writer to “go wide with a story.” “Clancy really imparted in me the desire to give the readers the full scope of the story not just the soldier on the ground but not just the president either. He brings in the full scope. He worked all levels of a story.” After some trial and error on his part in getting his writing off the ground, Greaney has some excellent advice for writers: just finish something. “I run into people looking for advice all the time. They have six books they are working
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ONSITE
ONSITE I The Boll Weevil Party
Osiris Banner Party
Boll Weevils have always been the troublemakers in the cotton field, and the Secret Order of the Boll Weevils has kept that tradition alive in the world of Carnival Memphis – once known as Cotton Carnival. The Boll Weevils’ annual party is always a boisterous bash, with masked members dancing about in their caped costumes, each bearing a Roman numeral. The weevils and their fun-loving friends gathered at The Warehouse Downtown where unmasked weevils and many guests wore green, the Boll Weevils’ color. “We have had 89 total members since the organization started in 1966,” Todd Brown, Evil Eminence, the title of the group’s leader, said. “Each time a new member is brought in, he is assigned the next number in sequential order.” While some masked members identify themselves simply by number, most use nicknames. During the festivities, long-time participant in Carnival Memphis Larry Maddox was honored, and Jim and Mimi Taylor were presented with the Boll Weevil trophy for their continuous support of the group. Boll Weevil Tiger Bryant, owner of Soul Fish Café, catered the event. The marauding masked men can be seen around town in their signature green bus when they visit children’s hospitals, bringing big smiles to the patients’ faces.
When members and guests of the Osiris Banner Party walked into Memphis Country Club, they stepped into a different world. It was ancient Egypt, and six bare-chested guards stood at the entranceway. The costumes of the Egyptian guards included golden collars, loincloths and Pharaoh’s headdresses bearing the group’s insignia, the eye of Osiris. The hall leading into the club’s rooms was lined with banners of each of the past 75 queens. The ancient Egyptian décor was thanks to party planners Anne Piper and Susan Labovitz. Each room was adorned with Egyptian statues and floral arrangements accented with banana leaves. Adding to the ambiance, white chiffon was draped in several areas, creating dramatic tent-like effects. Lavish food stations were scattered around the club, including a seafood table that offered delicacies like oysters on the half shell, boiled prawns and sushi. Other stations offered lamb and mint jelly with roasted tenderloin. A dessert table was filled with miniature cakes, berry parfaits and crème brûlée. Trumpeters sounded the entrance of the queen, Peyton Halle, who entered from the rear of the club in a sedan chair carried by her guards. After she was delivered to the ballroom, she ascended the stage where she was joined by the masked king, Richard Murff, whose identity was revealed later at the Osiris Club Room Party.
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson AUGUS T 2015
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
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Matt Brinner and Peyton Halle
Pat Moore and Lisa Moore
Grace McLarty, Liz McLarty, Laura Dearman and Lockie Dearman
David and Jane Sorsby with Tracey and Chip Carruthers
Lacy Carpenter, Colleen Canale, Signe Adams, Lale Adams and Kimen Brinkley
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ONSITE II Par-Tee with the Gurus
Urban Barn Market
The halls of St. Agnes Academy were teeming with people as the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) held its inaugural event to begin fund-raising for the organization’s newly formed Memphis chapter. The chapter was established in memory of Lauren Wright Hobbs, a 2002 graduate of St. Agnes who lost her battle with cervical cancer in the fall of 2013. Serving as the chapter’s leader (president) is Elaine Wright, sister-inlaw to Hobbs, with Donna Wright, Hobbs’ mother, serving as the coleader. The cocktail buffet offered guests shrimp bruschetta from The Half Shell, along with barbecue sliders from One & Only BBQ. Frost Bake Shop and Nothing Bundt Cakes provided their signature deserts and Southwind Wine & Spirits provided the refreshments. The evening included a testimonial from three-time cervical cancer survivor Laura Fletcher and an educational presentation by one of Laura’s former doctors, Dr. Joseph T. Santoso of The West Cancer Center. The organization will be fund-raising for research to find a cure, providing education to the local community and offering patient and family support.
Guests gathered at The Orpheum Theatre for the Dinner on Stage event. Pat Halloran, who has headed the Orpheum for 35 years, ascended the staircase to welcome the crowd and present the evening’s agenda. The group assembled in the auditorium for brief films and a tour backstage where they viewed the famous backstage murals painted by casts of Broadway shows and the “signature wall” autographed by numerous touring celebrities. After the tour, guests returned to the stage for a buffet dinner catered by event sponsor Horseshoe Casino Tunica. Halloran plans to retire from The Orpheum in December, but he assured the crowd that he would still be leading his group trips to New York City. And most assuredly, his presence will still be felt as he begins a new chapter with the theater as consultant for the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts & Education.
Held as a fund-raiser for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital at Lexus of Memphis, the event was presented by Ring Container Technologies. The evening featured 21 of the nation’s Top 100 teaching golf professionals, or as they were often referred to, “The Gurus.” The musical duo Pam and Terry provided the entertainment for the evening while guests roved the room bidding on silent auction items. As the evening progressed, Steven and Angela McCarter and their two children, Laney and Matthew took center stage to tell their Le Bonheur story. Their heartfelt testimony was proof of the life-saving miracles of the pediatric experts at Le Bonheur. Former LPGA player Mary Beth Murphy served as auctioneer. All proceeds benefited Le Bonheur.
Debi Heying Vincent and Carrie Walters Floyd brought vintage and handmade items to the grounds of the Woodruff-Fontaine House for a three-day event. With a theme of “putting Memphis on the map,” the creative duo used maps in almost every conceivable way, cutting little “flags” to fly in centerpiece greenery, wrapping books with them, lining serving trays and more. In addition to the vendor booths, the market included workshops in calligraphy, “upcycling” furniture with chalk paint, floral arranging and modern cross-stitch. Kristin WolterCanfield of Everbloom Designs showcased her creative style with lovely, “just picked” floral arrangements that punctuated tables. She also styled props to create vignettes across the grounds of the Woodruff-Fontaine House and crafted a signature backdrop comprised of a map with words spelled out in florist moss announcing “Urban Barn Market.” “We had seen similar markets popping up in rural areas and wanted to bring that to Memphis,” explained Vincent. “We wanted to join the revitalization movement and help cultivate the creative spirit.”
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Pat and Anne Halloran
Steven, Angela, Matthew and Lanky McCarter
Debi Heying Vincent and Carrie Walters Floyd
Chuck Herzog and Stefan Smith
Dr. Joseph Santoso, Donna Wright, Elaine Wright, Laura Fletcher, Brad Wright and Jimmy Wright
Dan, Ashley and Brooke Dishmon
Gerald and Yolanda Toney
Justin and Ashley Bradley with Donna and Brad Woodall
Carolyn Olivia Dodson-King and Emily Melton
Harris and Claire Todd
Missy Richgels and Renee Canter
37 RS VP
Dinner on Stage
AUGUS T 2015
NCCC Kickoff Cocktails
EVENT
Bi g Wi g Ball “Flip Your Wig”
Big Wig Ball
M
AUGUS T 2015
Timorie and Hunter Belk
Steph Martinez and Keith Pierce
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Preston and Jennifer Thompson
Adam and Lauren Morris
emphians flipped their wigs for the annual Big Wig Ball presented by Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Foundation Association Board. This “fun-raiser” for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital invited guests to put a spin on their usual cocktail attire and add a wig. Memphians did not hold back. There were wigs piled high à la Marie Antoinette, Elvis wigs, ponytailed wigs, and wigs in every color under the sun, including several rainbow wigs. Held at Annesdale Mansion located in the Annesdale Snowden Historic District, the sight of neon colored wigs against the backdrop of the timeless architecture of the historic venue always draws a big crowd that is excited to take in some Memphis history and support Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Wigged out guests wandered the elegant grounds and gardens, sipping on specialty cocktails made with American Born Moonshine such as the American Born Apple Pie mixed with pineapple juice and the American Born Dixie mixed with lemonade. Libations were courtesy of Star Distibutors. A Moveable Feast/Hog Wild Catering Co. set up a tempting spread of food in the dining room, and guests filled their plates with quesadillas, sliders and chips and salsa. The silent auction offered a variety of sought-after items such as a season subscription to Playhouse on the Square, premium BMW luggage, a one-night stay at the Madison Hotel, a RiverKings fan pack, original artwork by Paul Edelstein and Germantown Performing Arts Center Belinda Carlisle tickets. White Door Events provided the décor for the evening, giving tables and chairs pops of red and pink draped fabric. Party sponsors included i-bank, City Auto Memphis, FedEx Freight, MEM, Ring Container Technologies, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee. Music filled Annesdale as dueling pianos played pop classics and took requests from the gathered crowd. Upstairs, Tori Tollison provided the musical ambiance for the VIP Lounge. Outside in the party tent, DJ Justin Jaggers of DeepBlu Entertainment got the dance floor going and Amurica Photo Booth was there to capture everyone’s fabulous hairstyles. Frost Bake Shop provided a little something for everyone’s sweet tooth. Anyone that needed some wig rehab could stop by Wig Styling Station manned by Mallory Droke. With a good dose of hairspray and some fun hair accessories, Droke restyled and reshaped any wig that needed some extra TLC. Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Foundation’s mission is to establish a variety of giving opportunities that benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and, through these donations, allow the hospital to provide every child with the best medical care possible, regardless of the family’s financial situation. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry
Caley and Josh Spotts with Erica Baker
Daniel Gant and Grace Yarbro
Michael Olushoga and Diana Alsbrook
Colleen Smith Radish and Liza Routh
Shevaun Shorter and Lakisha Mitchell
AUGUS T 2015
39 RS VP
EVENT Big Wig Ball
Patrick Maier, Brittany Andry, Antara Mandal and Brandon Tisci
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Hudson Atkins, Carrie Schaefer, Kaitlin Gullick and Thomas Schaefer
Kate and Jonathan Lyons
Jordan and Erin Colburn
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Bailie Bryson and Stephen Wong
Brantley Ellzey and Jim Renfrow
Jonathan Leonard, Preston Blair, Caleb Simmons and Mark Lambert
Sally Young and Emily Young
Ashley Sandridge, Chris Studaway, Kevin Wood and Danielle Salton
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41 RS VP
EVENT Big Wig Ball
Jared and Jessica Shoup
Farrell Simpson and LaTonya Washington
Lindsey Stanfill and Jessica Chandler
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Amanda Williams and Erik Krull
Brooke Laws and Blake Mashaur
Michelle and Blake McManus
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Ernie and Lynn Mellor
Martha Stanford, Christina Runer and Deanna Wallace
Heather Swanson and David Nall
Meg and Brian Smith
LaShea Bridges and Peggy Wilburn
EVENT Big Wig Ball
Brett and Kathryn Jones
Allison Prescott and Katherine Graham
Anna Mary Jordan and Jason Stone
Maleka Daniel and Torri Rayford
AUGUS T 2015
Alisa Cunningham, Diana Nicholas and Brad Colonna
Ken Robinson, Tammy Wilson, Chan Koh, Victoria Fletcher and Richard MacDabhoig
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Michael and Karen Faught
Blake and Kayla Hazlerig
Michael and Jennifer Goodin
Nicole and Andrew Hinson
Laura Echtenlamp, Elizabeth Ennis, Jennifer Routh and Ashland Cahill
Erin and Michael Nunn
Katie Wassmer and Amina Dilawari
EVENT
Literatini S haken
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L iteracy M id -S outh
LITERATINI
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and
John Minervini and Virginia Falvey King
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Macon Wilson and Marja Mills
Owen and Libby Harris
etween 20 and 30 percent of adults in the Mid-South are functionally illiterate. The nonprofit Literacy Mid-South is stepping in to bridge those gaps with several programs including its adult learning program, the Smart Memphis Coalition, and English for You, among others, with the help of numerous volunteers and others willing to give their time and/or money. One of the organization’s top fund-raising events was held at The Booksellers at Laurelwood. The fourth annual Literatini was a sellout event. “It’s grown every year, and we sell out every year,” Kevin Dean, Literacy Mid-South’s executive director, said. Close to 250 supporters enjoyed some creative and premium martinis to celebrate an organization that works hard to end illiteracy in the Mid-South. Restaurants including Alchemy Memphis, Automatic Slim’s Restaurant, Cafe Olé, Celtic Crossing Irish Pub & Restaurant, Ghost River Brewing, The Grove Grill, Silly Goose Lounge, South of Beale and Tuscany Steakhouse, provided the mixology expertise, particularly during the “Martini Death Match.” “It’s like the show ‘Chopped’ but with vodka,” Dean said. Each of the four participating bartenders was provided with mystery ingredients with which they had to make the best martini. Absolut® Vodka donated its premium vodka for the event. The Grove Grill won the Martini Death Match. People’s Choice went to Tuscany Steakhouse. One of the biggest draws of the evening was the newly added feature – a Q&A session and a book signing with former Harper Lee neighbor and memoirist Marja Mills, who shared stories of having McDonald’s coffee with the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and going on long drives with her through Monroe County. Valerie Calhoun of WHBQ-TV hosted the Q&A. Brennan Villines provided the music and The Booksellers Bistro provided food. A percentage of book sales made during the event also went to the nonprofit. Last year, the event brought in $10,000 with fewer tickets available. “We sold twice as many tickets as last year. This year we’ll be north of that,” Dean reported. The mission of Literacy Mid-South is to “increase the literacy levels of adult learners by providing high quality basic literacy education, [and to] unite and build the capacity of nonprofit organizations, businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, and members of the community to create a community actively engaged in continuous learning in the Mid-South.” Marx Bensdorf Realtors was the presenting sponsor. Over $10,000 was raised for adults who struggle with reading. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Lesley Young Photos by Daniel Frederick
Kevin Dean, Heather Dobbins and Shawn McGhee
Christina Vranich and Jessica Toliuszis
Dennis and Carolyn Head
Gabrielle Prewitt and Shannon Seaton
Kayla Brooks and Angelica Fortney
AUGUS T 2015
45 RS VP
EVENT LITERATINI
Rachel Dickens, Meg Parker and Cory Prewitt
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Johannah O’Malley and Dean Hestermann
Melanie and Josh Clark
Leeann Sturch and Eric Pugliese
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Stacy Harrell and Adam Johnson
John Elkington, Beau Elkington and Valerie Calhoun
Karyn Dewan and Katherine Whitfield
Angela Fulton and Christy Fletcher
Tamara Jones, Laura Boliek and Jessica C. Thomas
EVENT LITERATINI
Meredith Plock and Rebekah Atkinson
Harriett Ferrell and Marilu Davis
Naomi Bata and Emily Brueck
AUGUS T 2015
Courtney Miller Santo and Charlie Santo
Julia Horne and Jennie VanDeveer
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Adrienne Glover and Drew Colson
Jeanne Distretti and Jamie Patterson
Leigh Dunavant and Patrick Blankinship
Carol Twilley and Tan Scarborough
Brad and Anna Marie Birkedahl
Kathy Torode and Kelly Kennedy
EVENT LITERATINI AUGUS T 2015
Tony and Maureen Arvin with Melinda and Keith Duncan
Tracy Lawson and Jennifer Trapanick
Heath Alderson and Keleye Mannery
Eileen Hogan and Katie Kelly
Debbie Monroe and Sally Buzby
Ashley Bonds, Tim Clifton and Sally Stover
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Stanton Brown, Russell Powers, Chelsea Lanier and Stuart Voges
Paul Foster and Nathan Tipton
Lindsey True and Andrea Schultz
David Parks and Sharon Wheeler
Tracie West and Alison Welch
Tony Miller, Suzie Szanyi and Amanda DeVlugt
EVENT LITERATINI
Kathleen Fletcher, Molly Weisman, Sarah Baker and Sarah Smith
Angela Ghoreishi and Huey Taylor
Marianne Mard and Peggy Gattas
Meg and Paul Canady with Taylor Wamble
AUGUS T 2015
Tandy Olmstead and Jesse Conrad
Cory York and Nicole Yasinsky
49 RS VP
Sherianne Bangham, Renee Kammer and Heather Wilson
Lily Thompson and Molly Prewitt
Jake and Jessica Brown
Kelley Willis and Matt Hikade
Amber Wilson and Shannon Gross
Corie Walkon, Jamie Wells, Rachel Harris and Corinne Walker
EVENT
Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Ball Spreading the Love
Le Bonheur Ball
T
AUGUS T 2015
Emily and Tom Love
Sheila Noone and Ted Davis
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he Peabody Hotel was the setting for the Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Ball, and the evening opened with a reception and silent auction in the hotel’s Continental Ballroom. Guests moved into the Grand Ballroom for a seated dinner featuring a gluten-free menu of salad of Romaine lettuce with black olives, cucumbers, feta cheese and a champagne vinaigrette dressing, as well as a dual entree of filet mignon and herb-encrusted salmon with a grits soufflé, asparagus and herbed tomatoes. Desserts included a heart-shaped serving of flourless chocolate cake with raspberry sauce. SoulSations, a Memphis group that puts a one-of-a-kind, contemporary Memphis spin on the classic Motown Sound, provided dinner music. Joe Birch of WMC-TV served as the evening’s emcee. He introduced Peggy Lovell, Le Bonheur Club President, who spoke to the group. Lovell, in turn, introduced honorary ball chairmen Nancy and Hamp Holcomb and Meri Armour, CEO and president of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. A video presentation from the Holcombs portrayed what Le Bonheur meant to their family as their son, Jay, endured numerous surgeries throughout his young life. Next, Terri Walker of Walker Auctions led the gala-goers through the live auction. Vacation packages, jewelry, a mink coat, a FedEx flight simulator experience, a private dinner by Chef Kelly English, and the opportunity to serve as The Peabody’s “Duckmaster for the Day” kept the crowd engaged in competitive bidding. The fund-raising didn’t end with the live auction. The “Raising Our Hearts” campaign invited guests to make outright donations ranging from $100 to $10,000. As each bidder raised their card, spotters in the group highlighted the bidder for the auctioneer and gave each bidder a beaded necklace with a red heart pendant, which lit up. The glow of hundreds of hearts brightened the room. The Children’s Choir took the stage to perform “The Greatest Love of All” with SoulSations and Amy Gunnel, the mother of one of the choir children. Attendees received custom-made, heart-shaped cookies as a sweet ending to the evening. The event raised approximately $500,000. Proceeds from the gala will benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Kelly Jo and Mitch Graves
Brandon and Preethi Saint
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Password: RSVP Photos by Don Perry
Lauren Barnett and Sally Perry
Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton
Hamp and Nancy Holcomb
Lloyd and Janet George with Peggy and LaVerne Lovell
Luka Perkovic and Alana Hu
EVENT Le Bonheur Ball Bruce Hopkins and Sissy Criss
Ben Still and Courtney Nicholson
Nicole and David Nannie
20 th Year Anniversary Issue
October 2015
AUGUS T 2015
Tricia Snead and Robert Douglass
RSVP Magazine
51 RS VP
Kristen and Joe Jeruzal
Deadline for anniversary issue: September 15 CALL ROY HAITHCOCK 901.497.9578 Karen and Jim Ralson
Alex Curry and Lauren Wilcox
EVENT Le Bonheur Ball
Leslie and Alexander Feliz
Elizabeth and Jeff Rosenblum
James William and Elizabeth Whitten
AUGUS T 2015
Josh and Caley Spotts
Larry and Janie Owens
Hal and Courtney Stansbury
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John West and Mary Alice Ruleman
Daryl Nowley and Angela Perkins
Brandon and Ashley Kimborough with Mandy and Chirag Chauhan
Hannah Curran and Jim Creamer
Ed Barnett, Congressman Stephen and Lynn Fincher and Joe Birch
RSVP Magazine 20 th Year Anniversary Issue
October 2015
Over the years we’ve been to thousands of parties, interviewed and featured hundreds of interesting Memphians, made a lot of new friends, and sadly, lost a few along the way. Let the good times roll. Please join us in this Commemorative Issue as we celebrate 20 Years of RSVP. reserve ad space call
Robin Morgan 901.545.9411
AUGUS T 2015
To
53 RS VP
EVENT Le Bonheur Ball
Frank and Ashley Clark
Wade and Betty Clark
AUGUS T 2015
Melissa and Kevin Wilcox
Mary Ann and Marcus Hodges
Jeff Johnson and Destiny Thompson
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54
Curtis and Paige Jones
Diane and Jimmy Eubanks
Lizzie and Jason Saenger
Courtney Street and Chastity Harris
Harris and Claire Todd
Dr. Debbie O’Cain and Roland Barnes
EVENT Le Bonheur Ball
Ashley and Jason Lewin
Drs. J.B. and Audrey Selecman
AUGUS T 2015
Dennis and Kavanaugh Casey
55 RS VP
Michael and Joanie Lightman
JosĂŠ and Jennifer Lelazquez
Liz Connell, Suzanna McCarthy and Sarah Wright
EVENT Le Bonheur Ball
Tom and Michele Myers
Mark and Jill Southern
Marianne and Ronald Walter
Doug Brown and Rebecca Fowler
Kimberly and Bailey Jessop
AUGUS T 2015
Andrew and Tina Douglas
Tony and Dana Parrish with Louie Buennagel
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Hallie and Derek Kelly
Kevin and Hayden Kane
Regan and Blake Williams
Barry and Elizabeth Gilmore
Tricia Snead, Karen Carlisle and Billie Sue Wilson
Deborah Tipton and Dr. Jay Cox
Cecil and Summer Godman
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AUGUS T 2015
57 RS VP
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October 2015
Over the years we’ve been to thousands of parties, interviewed and featured hundreds of interesting Memphians,
EVENT
20 th Year Anniversary Issue
Le Bonheur Ball
RSVP Magazine
Mary Simon with Mike and Elise Frick
made a lot of new friends, and sadly, lost a few along the way. Let the good times roll.
AUGUS T 2015
Please join us in this Commemorative Issue as we celebrate 20 Years of RSVP. To
reserve ad space call
Chris Pugh 662.316.8594
Vickie and Lee Bradley
Jeff and Patti Towbin
RS VP
58
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AUGUS T 2015
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59 RS VP
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AUGUS T 2015
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Brewville@DeNeuville Homebrew Competition
Pints for the Park: A Conservancy Celebration
Duration Fine Arts Club End-of-the-Year Luncheon
Memphis Heritage Inc. Architectural Auction
DeNeuville Learning Center held its second annual Brewville@ DeNeuville Homebrew Competition. This fund-raiser for the center that helps women from all backgrounds achieve success in life through counseling, education, job training programs and Citizen Test Preparations Classes brought in Memphians from all over the city for a good ole fashioned homebrew competition that also included live music, food, games and the chance to support a Memphis nonprofit that is bettering lives. Local band South Side Supper Club serenaded attendees as guests picked up their tasting glasses and cast their votes in five different categories. Winners included: Rauch Me Like a Hurricane by Jon Korneliussen for Best Dark Brew, Ice Storm Cider by Annemarie McClellan for Most Interesting Brew, Nun Better Ale by Bryan Snavely for Best Name, Best Light Brew and Overall People’s Choice.
Overton Park Conservancy (OPC) celebrated volunteers and Overton Park enthusiasts at the Formal Gardens of Overton Park. Guest enjoyed a spread by Just In Thyme catering, which offered an assortment of sandwiches including cool cucumber dill and turkey and brie cheese. Memphis Made Brewing Co. was also there with some cooling beverages like their popular Lucid Kolsch. Tina Sullivan, OPC executive director, spoke about future goals for the park such as improving the entrance to the Old Forrest and building a program that brings together emerging leaders in Memphis who want to make a difference in the community through conservancy and Overton Park.
The Duration Fine Arts Club held its End-of-the-Year Luncheon and installation of officers at the University Club on a gloriously sunny day. Gordy Wells of the Visible Music College entertained club members and their guests with songs from Broadway musicals including “Oklahoma!,” “My Fair Lady,” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” Rene Koopman accompanied him. After the performance, the ladies enjoyed a luncheon of chicken crepes with mixed greens. A decadent dessert of molten chocolate lava cake à la mode completed the meal. Following lunch, Kay Price gave out door prizes, which were bottles of wine and floral arrangements made by club member Ann Wieties, a Master Gardener. Once the fun and games concluded, Becky Entrekin conducted the installation ceremony for the new officers of the club. The Duration Fine Arts Club was founded in the 1940s to help World War II veterans and was meant to last for the duration of the war, thus the name. After the war ended, the club lived on and the name was later changed to The Duration Fine Arts Club.
Mid-Southerners get a little itchy when they can’t peruse the city’s historical artifacts. “We do this type of auction every two years, and some years we skip a year, so you start ‘jonesing’ for it,” June West, executive director of Memphis Heritage Inc. (MHI), said of the biennial-ish Architectural Auction. The auction, held this year in a warehouse space in the Edge District is presented to raise funds for the organization, which works to preserve historical buildings and sites in the Mid-South. “It’s one of our major fund-raisers,” West said of the 30-year tradition. MHI associates collect unique items from the historic buildings that punctuate the Memphis landscape and auction them off via live and silent auctions at the event. This year’s shindig offered 250 plus items, including a 1950 Dodge truck with all original parts found in a camouflaged garage at the home of Blind Mississippi Morris. In addition to the excitement served up during the live auction, the South Side Supper Club entertained guests and food stations were provided by area restaurants.
Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
Story and Photos by Lesley Young
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
Tina Sullivan with Tom and Katie Midgley Tracie Burke, Tami Salvaggio, Patrick Jones and Lori Bramlett June West and Terry Reeves Donna Godwin, Hilda Mullen, Norma McCrory and Annemarie Bobay
Charles Jones and Roshun Austin Rebecca Allen, Lyndy Faulkner, and Bramlett Dyles
Becky Todd and Angela Russell Ruth Ann Hale, Mary Nelson, Judy Freeman and Judy Belisomo
Mallory Harvey and Mitchell Allgyer
Shannon Williams with Kate and Jane Joyce, Beni Moghui and Steve Reid
June Kardoush, Becky Entrekin and Ann Wieties
Joy and Richard Asbury
The Blues Ball Spring Auction Crawfish Boil
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
The 6th annual Uncork the Cure (A Toast to Memphis’ Finest), held at The Tower Room, honored 10 young professionals who raised money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Guests walked into a party already humming with the tunes of DJ Funn of Funn Entertainment. Several Memphis eateries were also on hand, offering some of their most popular menu items, like pork or chicken sliders from Central BBQ and baconwrapped shrimp from Café Society. Just for Lunch provided a bruschetta bar with olivada, basil and tomatoes and lemon artichoke toppings. Keeping to the adult theme of the party, Boozy Bites Sweets was on hand with some of its candies such as Chianti wine and peanut butter chocolates and grown-up gummies, all of which contained alcohol. After dancing, guests were offered the chance to participate in “Karaoke for the Kure.” For a minimum $10 donation, a guest could pick someone else to sing a song. If that person elected to not take the stage, a matching donation was required to decline. The Breath of Life Award was given to Amber Hagewood, who raised $8,600. The total take for the night was $40,000, with 90 percent of that money going directly to research a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
Michael Gilbert, Yoko Takebe, Joy Wiener, Billie Jean Graham and Roland Valliere
Ignacio and Melissa Vincentelli Susan and David Weber with Carina Nyberg and Lecolion Washington
Joe Lackie with Martha and Tom Horton Eddie Floyd Tom and Elena Ross with Megan Black and Jason Ross Joan Gilbert and Florence Leffler
Kerr Tigrett, Lydia Tigrett and Pat Kerr Tigrett
Kathy King, Honey Scheidt and Lura Turner
Steve Masterson and Louis Hamric
Janice Blakely and Tracy Sinzheimer
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Story Submitted Photos by E. Michaels
The historic midtown home of Joy Wiener was the setting for the Memphis Symphony League’s (MSL) Champagne Reception honoring Amphion winner Michael Gilbert. Each guest was greeted at the door with a glass of bubbly and a warm welcome from the gracious hostess who opened her home for the fund-raiser. Maximilian’s Catering provided a lavish buffet of hot hors d’oeuvres. Outgoing MSL president Kathy King made a cake from a family recipe for those with a sweet tooth. A string trio, comprised of Memphis Symphony members Daniel Gilbert, Iren Zombar, and Jennifer Puckett, played chamber music from the second floor landing. MSL member Donna Olswing provided stunning floral arrangements. As guests departed, Level Nine Services brought their cars to the curb. Inside each car was a gift box from the company. The Amphion Award was created by MSL in 1983 to honor an individual for outstanding international contribution and service to the arts.
Uncork the Cure (A Toast to Memphis’ Finest)
AUGUS T 2015
As a precursor to its annual Blues Ball, The Memphis Charitable Foundation brought locals together in late spring to celebrate the life of B.B. King at The Blues Ball Spring Auction Crawfish Boil. Held at the Tennessee Brewery, this event paid tribute to the iconic blues man with crawfish, blues music and a silent auction that benefited several nonprofits in the area. B.B. King graced the Blues Ball stages many times and was the recipient of The Blues Ball Pyramid Award in 2003 and The Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008, two of the highest honors. A few of Memphis music supporters and luminaries in attendance were: Ruby Wilson, the “Queen of Beale Street,” who performed “Knock On Wood,” Eddie Floyd, the Reverend Al Green’s Band, Paul Taylor, John Pahmer, Jarvis Gooden, Josh Moore, Cedric Richmond and Chris Green, Yvonne and Lorraine Mitchell, Doris and Fred Fredricks, Sally Wilbourn, Jackie Wilson, Jana and John Pettey, Melanie and Kerr Tigrett, Susan Murrmann and Mike Maness, among many others. Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, NARAS/Musicares and Memphis Musician Healthcare Plan were the deserving charities. “B.B.’s endless support of the Blues Ball for 21 years has been priceless,” Pat Kerr Tigrett, founder and chairman of The Blues Ball, said.
Memphis Symphony League Champagne Reception
ONSITE
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AUGUS T 2015
ONSITE
ONSITE V Feast on the Farm
Dog-A-Roo
Agricenter International and many of its supporters mixed goodwill and good food to create the inaugural Feast on the Farm, a delicious summer wing-ding held to augment funding for the nonprofit’s educational and research programs, notably its bus scholarships for groups of area school students. Feast on the Farm offered a silent auction and live bidding for donated items, gift certificates and services. The sold-out event attracted about 400 guests, who visited food-tasting stations and bars arranged around the Show Place Arena floor of Agricenter International. Delectables were prepared by some of Memphis’ acclaimed chefs and eateries, including Jeff Dunham, Simpson Hughes, Las Tortugas Deli Mexicana, Mac Edwards, Erling Jensen, Paradise Seafood, Sweet Grass, Kelly English, Ryan Trimm and, true to the event’s farm-to-table theme, the Agricenter’s own Farmers Market Vendors. Peach World’s fried pies delighted, as well as a selection of luscious tartlets served by Tart. American Born Moonshine and dance music by Party Planet sparked a gay mood amid festoons of tiny lights and tables topped with sunflower blooms. The event raised more than $55,000 for the Agricenter’s educational programs, according to Michelle Stubbs, Agricenter director of development. “Our hope is that all children can experience the farm while learning how our world is fed, clothed and fueled,” Stubbs said. Helena Chemical Co., Rose Construction, Reach Human Capital, Start Distributors, Hicks Events and Convention Rentals & Services, Arrowhead Nursery and the Agricenter’s Friends of the Farm partners presented the event.
All it took was just one look around the soggy Outback Off-Leash Dog Park of Shelby Farms Park to know what Dog-A-Roo was really about. Near the east-end stage area at Gate 12, Rusty, a brown-and-white dog wrapped in a green bandanna, had eyes only for his foster dad, John Prezioso. Rusty needs a special someone to adopt him, and Prezioso knew he’d find kindred spirits at Dog-A-Roo, a festival that raises funding for the 20-acre dog park and offleash area maintained by the nonprofit Shelby Farms Park Conservancy. “I wanted to be among other dog people,” Prezioso said as he caressed Rusty’s head. “They’re the best, a special breed.” No less than a dozen area rescue-andadoption groups proved his point, braving the festival’s rainy start to erect canopied booths with crates and kennels housing a multitude of adoptable dogs of every kind, size and temperament. Drizzle yielded to sunshine as activities commenced, including a 4K run for humans and dogs, search-and-rescue and herding demonstrations, an agility course, informational and training sessions and displays of canine-related services, goods and crafts. As the band Chinese Connection Dub Embassy sounded its beat from the stage, far away at the festival’s quiet west end, stood Muttlee, a sweet-eyed brown fellow clad in a red cape with the words “Adopt Me” stitched on it. Muttlee nuzzled his companion, Harley Romaine, a volunteer with the rescue group Dogs 2nd Chance. Presented by Memphis Veterinary Specialists, the annual Dog-A-Roo festival helps to ensure that pooches and their humans will continue to have a safe, beautiful patch of natural ground on which to frolic. Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
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Wendy Ansbro and Jeanne Hollis
Jon Braunstein, Heather Deranian and Melody McAfee with Ava
Kelly Perkins and Ron Fittes
Chloe Smith with Buddy
John Charles and Susan Wilson
Marcus and Jessica Scott
Susie Alford and Coral O’Connor Maximus with Heather Lampi
Tim Price, Graham Smith and Pierre T. Landaiche III
Kim Williams, Maritza Anderson, Scott Anderson, Holly Ford, Kim Moon and Kim Wilkinson
Carole Scruggs, Phyl Simmons and Debbie Lovett with Isabel and Turk
Harley Romaine with Muttlee
AFTER HOURS
AFTER HOURS A photo collage of the latest business happenings
Studio LaRue Medical Spa Event
Jae Curran, Dr. David Richardson and Stephanie Brick
Mary Pat Custer, Pet Messengill and Tommie Pardue
Vandy Adams and Lindsey Rodgers
AUGUS T 2015
63 Bari Metz, Amy Wood and Norma Stricklin
Karen Prewery and Delores Porter
Summer Conservatory Opera Memphis Party Scene II
Abigail Myers and Samuel McFatridge
Madisyn Bowden and Ethan Baskin
Morgan Beckford, Aimee Hurley, Sarah Squire, Lenora Green, Catherine Grace Cox and Mary Wilson
Andrew Daunais and Kate Saunders
Dylan Shepherd and Sofia Karabell
Brandon Dickerson and Autmn Madewell
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Lindsey Bishop, Amanda Schlink, Mariam Bottom and Jodie Turner
RSVP Crossword
Edited By Ruth Cassin
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45 Cleaner brand 46 Exclusive group 47 Shade tree 50 Globe 52 Apex 53 House pest 54 Not inner 55 Not a comedy 56 Baited 59 Former magistrate of Venice 60 Ambience 62 Persia, formerly 63 One of Jacob’s sons 64 Was looked at 66 Hellos 68 Punching tool M O U S E
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71 Braid 72 Historical time period 73 Precede 74 Former Soviet ruler
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i t ’ s cl a ssy it’s smooth For underwriting information, call 901-678-2560 Visit us online at wumr.memphis.edu
RSVPhillipi
By Dennis Phillippi
THIs is working out TV watching, ice cream loving dumplings. We don’t know if it’s a spoken or unspoken decision because that’s not the kind of thing you can ask about. “Say, um, you and Cathy…you two just sort of decided to get fat together?” That’s going to be the last time we get a hostess gift from those two. We’ve seen one or the other of a couple, who have expanded together, decide that they wanted to reverse the process. With some couples the other partner saw the wisdom of this choice
and got on the diet and exercise bandwagon too. The happy couples slimmed down, usually on the orders of one of their doctors, and they found new energy together. On the other hand, we’ve seen where the other spouse, usually the guy, sticks to the sticky buns. One partner spends time at the gym and the other spends time in the cookie aisle. When this happened, inevitably she shed another couple of hundred unwanted pounds by dumping the guy. One thing I feel about exercise is: if you’re going to exercise, then exercise. If you can go into a restaurant or bar wearing
65 RS VP
One thing I feel about exercise is: if you’re going to exercise, then exercise. If you can go into a restaurant or bar wearing the same clothes you just wore to the gym, you didn’t really exercise.
the same clothes you just wore to the gym, you didn’t really exercise. If I were to go into a restaurant right after being at the gym the manager would ask me to leave. Probably while covering his nose like a cartoon maître d’. No sweat equals no exercise. Also, if you’re doing something at the gym and reading at the same time, you’re not exercising. You’re pretending to exercise. This is all, of course, my opinion. Maybe the guy flipping through Men’s Health while pushing the pedals of a spin bike at the lowest setting is really burning some calories. My wife teaches the spin. I’m not sure if you’ve ever done this, but it’s basically riding an exercise bike with a bunch of other people while the person in front, in this case, my wife, exhorts you to challenge yourself. These people are exercising. Unfortunately, the saddle of a spin bike seems designed to elicit so much pain in my nether regions that I’ve never really gotten the appeal. I can’t stress enough how none of this has anything to do with the possible health benefits of exercising. At 51, the chief result I get from it is that I am always in some kind of pain. At my age, it’s amazing that I can still find new muscles to injure. Over the last 21 years, I’ve done just about everything bad to the upper part of my right leg short of it being bitten off by an alligator. I have torn my hamstring, which caused me to scream in a pitch just shy of a dog whistle. I’m sure anyone who heard wondered what terrible thing was happening to that shrieking lady. I have pulled my groin, an excruciating injury that garners zero sympathy because people can’t not laugh at the phrase “pulled groin.” At this point, my right leg is so monkeyed up that if I am sitting for more than about 10 minutes during a stand-up routine, I drag my leg like a monster movie sidekick. When I get out of a low seat, like say, a car, I make sounds like someone standing on a set of bagpipes and have to gingerly reassemble myself like a Jenga tower. There should probably be a message in a column like this. Some encouragement to get out there and find your bliss or something. All I’m really saying is: try to look good for your spouse, or someone else will.
AUGUS T 2015
First off, while I exercise pretty much every day, I do not do so for my health. If I exercised for my health, I would do other things for my health, and I don’t. If I was focused on my well being, I wouldn’t have been standing in my kitchen last night at midnight eating bacon and ketchup. Nothing else, just bacon and ketchup. Oh yeah, and whiskey. No, I exercise for two reasons: vanity and to remain attractive to my wife. When I was 30, I saw myself doing stand-up on television and found my overall puffiness alarming. While I still weighed more or less the same I had since high school, my newly round face and general air-whipped appearance made me re-evaluate my standing policy of considering standing to be exercise. Most nights back then, I would do at least one standup set, and that involved moving around and doing a certain amount of sweating, so the gym membership was something I used about as much as I use my Blockbuster card now. I had heard that your body tends to change when you hit 30, I didn’t believe it until I saw empirical evidence on television. Since then, and we’re talking 21 years or so, I’ve made it a rule to get some kind of workout in almost every day. Just like clockwork, each passing decade landmark, 40 and then 50, the battle to stay in shape has gotten noticeably more challenging. Just like with each passing decade it has become more difficult to ingest pop culture or spend time around young people. Still, I have been in a monogamous relationship with the same woman since the Reagan Administration, and so I consider it important to make an effort to be appealing to the wife. Thank God, she feels the same way. In our 30 years together we’ve seen a lot of other couples go the other way. The first, and most common, way we’ve seen couples deviate is the decision to just let themselves go together. Pairs of people we had seen starve themselves to look good at their wedding slowly devolved into sweatpants wearing, binge
RS V PAST
1973-1974
AUGUS T 2015
Sorority Sisters
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66
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he lovely sisters of Zeta Chapter of the Delta Beta Sigma High School Sorority smile big for their 1973-1974 sorority composite picture. Founded in 1903 at Columbia Institute Columbia, TN, the chapter was active at White Station High School, East High School, Central High School, Immaculate Conception and St. Agnes Academy. While the Zeta Chapter folded in the late 1970s, there are still eight active chapters in four states. Photo BY major of memphis If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Rachel Warren at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
AUGUS T 2015
67 RS VP