RSVP Magazine January 2015 by RSVP Magazine

January 2015

THE WEDDING ISSUE Art on Fire Red Boa Ball Bell Tower Gala Orpheum Theatre Auction Gala Q&A with Judy Peiser

CONTENTS

Contents January 2015

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Dan Conaway, author of the book “I’m a Memphian,” gives us a taste of his wit and dry humor at Burke’s Books.

Orpheum Theatre Auction Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 From the opening act to the final curtain call, this auction lived up to its top billing.

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 & 24 This duo is exploring the unique signs and landmarks that dot the city through

60 ART ON FIRE Ashley Frazer and Jamie Wilson

beautiful art and the stories of Memphians. This successful saxophonist just received a Brass Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame and, at 83, hasn’t slowed down one bit with a feature in a documentary in the works.

Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Q&A with the Center for Southern Folklore co-founder and executive producer,

68 BELL TOWER GALA Harley and Shannon Davis

Judy Peiser.

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RSVP Wedding Fashion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Bridal Bliss

RSVP Featured Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Real Memphis couples share their big day with us.

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The classic Italian-Mediterranean architecture of the Junior League of Memphis Community Resource Center provided the elegant backdrop for this year’s fashion shoot showcasing the latest in bridal fashion.

Ambassador Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 The Perry-Scope

12 ORPHEUM THEATRE AUCTION GALA Jon and Kathy Douglass

Eugene Pidgeon gives us the scope on Perry Hooks, the founder of Hooks Books Events in Washington D.C., and her long list of accomplishments in the “Capital Beltway.”

Red Boa Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Red feather boas filled the Memphis Botanic Garden in support of The American

26 VOXPOPULAR Judy Peiser

Red Cross of the Mid-South.

Art on Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Even though temperatures were dropping, this party had Memphians burning with excitement at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens.

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64, 65, 66 & 67 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention. Bell Tower Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 This fund-raiser for Christian Brothers University attracted a large crowd of university faculty, alumni and friends to the Memphis Hilton.

RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 The Eyes Have It

Do my eyes deceive me? Getting older has RSVP’s Dennis Phillippi seeing double.

29 RSVP WEDDING FASHION

RED BOA BALL Kelly Geer and Colleen Wilson Cover Photo Steven and Katie Donnelly Mote at The Columns at One Commerce Square Photo by Snap Happy Photography

R SV P S TA F F Volume XX

Number IV

January 2015 PUBLISHER

Roy Haithcock EDITOR

R achel Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Ander son Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Eugene Pidgeon Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR

CHRIS PUGH, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 901.276.7787, EXT. 103 chris@rsvpmagazine.com

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.

Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Daniel Frederick Patrick L antrip Don Perry Steve Roberts

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Chris Pugh Robin Morgan ROBIN MORGAN ,

ACCOUNTING

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 901.276.7787, EXT. 104 robin@rsvpmagazine.com

Ruth Cassin EDITORIAL INTERN

Patrick L antrip 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

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 girl friends. 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!

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 or fax to 901-276-7785. e-mail editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on

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PATRICK LANTRIP, EDITORIAL INTERN 901.276.7787, EXT. 107 patrickl@rsvpmagazine.com

Patrick Lantrip is currently seeking his journalism degree at the University of Memphis, where he also serves as the managing editor of The Daily Helmsman. A native of Midtown Memphis, Patrick is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, hiking, camping and wildlife photography. He enjoys spending his downtime with his daughter, Anna and their cat, Bella.

From the Editor

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elcome to the New Year folks! At RSVP we are ringing in the New Year with our 2015 Wedding issue. I am so delighted to present to you, faithful readers, the final product of months of planning, preparation, Memphian bridal submissions and, of course, lots of divine bridal dresses! The Wedding issue is one of our favorites. From picking out the dresses to going through the pictures of the wonderful bridal submissions, it is always an extraordinary experience. We especially wish to thank those that furnished us with clothing and jewelry for the fashion shoot, and we thank the beautiful newlyweds of Memphis that shared their big days with us. Putting together a fashion shoot is not all tulle and sparkles, and we could not have done it without the generous contributions of Steve Roberts and Ralph Crafton, our superb photographers, and the seemingly magical instinct and professional talent of Janean Roberts of Vanity Salon, hair extraordinaire, and Matt Gosset, makeup maven, for their time, efforts and extreme patience, no matter what craziness we threw at them. Of course, nothing would be without our model, Madison Atkinson of Colors Talent, whose glamour and elegance radiates from every photo. We are also in debt to Ashlye McCormick who supplied the lovely flowers. The Junior League of Memphis gets our utmost love for opening up their Community Resource Center for our fashion uses. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and built in an Italian-Mediterranean architectural style, the mansion made every single shot stunning. Thanks JLM! The theme for our bridal fashion spread this year is “Bridal Bliss,” which I think is an appropriate theme for the New Year. Bride or not, we should all be holding onto some bliss this year. So whether your New Year’s resolution is getting fit or slowing down in 2015, catch you some bliss!

Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com Editor’s Corrections: In the RSVPast feature of the 2014 December issue, the Lebovitz home was incorrectly identified as the Shepard home. In the RSVPast feature of the 2014 November issue, the photo that was provided by Ronald Clark is the property of the Withers Collection Museum Gallery

Communication strategist, columnist, author of “I’m a Memphian,” successful storyteller and failed golfer.

Hometown: Memphis. Favorite Southern Idiom: “Fixin’.” Biggest Pet Peeve: Questionnaires. Your Best Quality: Sense of humor. Your Lucky Charm: Sense of humor. Who Inspires You: Diogenes. Honest. Best Memphis Hangout: Elmwood Cemetery. Your Most Annoying Habit: Offering advice without being asked. Best Advice You Ever Got: Don’t offer advice unless you’re asked. Proudest Moment of Your Life: Birth of our children and grandchildren. Something You’ll Never Live Down: I was Ronald McDonald for two years. One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: Write a novel. Wait. Write a good novel. Favorite Song: “My Girl,” “Green Onions,” and whatever Bonnie Raitt would like to sing. Coolest Thing About Memphis: The truth of what you can see every day in Memphis is better than the fiction other cities have to come up with to make them interesting. Who Would Play You in a Movie: I would like it to be George Clooney, but my family says Chevy Chase. The Highlight of Your Day: Walking into a room and knowing that there are people in it who are glad you did. Place You Go to Think: While I hope we would do more of that wherever we are, big thoughts seem to come to me around big water. First Car You Drove: My dad’s 1965 gold Barracuda with a big, bad Hurst four-speed shifter and the engine of a lawnmower. A small lawnmower.

Photo by Steve Roberts

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Dan Conaway

EVENT ORPHEUM THEATRE AUCTION GALA

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Orpheum Theatre Auction Gala A Night in the Theatre

Evelyn Hudley and Amy Page

Kimberly and Dr. Geza Remak

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hroughout its nearly 125-year history, The Orpheum Theatre has seen its fair share of highs and lows. From the vaudeville glory days as the Grand Opera House to the tragic 1923 fire that burned it to the ground, from its roaring rebirth in 1928 as The Orpheum Theatre to the uncertain years in the 1970s and all the way to the 1982 renovations that returned it to its opulent grandeur, the theatre has withstood the test of time. This year, the “South’s Finest Theatre” looks to begin a new chapter in its long history by raising funds for a new state-of-the-art building for The Orpheum Centre for Performing Art and Education at its 36th Annual Orpheum Theatre Auction. “Every dime that we raise here tonight is going to go towards the new building,” President and CEO of The Orpheum Pat Halloran said. The new center will be located in the lot directly south of the theatre and is expected to cost $14.5 million dollars. “We have raised $12 million so far, so we figured if we could divide up the $2.5 million that we are short amongst all of you, then for a mere $37,621 each we could finish this tonight,” Halloran jokingly told the crowd prior to the start of the auction. The auction itself was divided into a silent and live auction and featured over 300 items worth almost a half a million dollars. There was also a raffle for a 1969 Ford Mustang as the grand prize. The silent auction encompassed the whole theatre which created a lively, bazaar-esque atmosphere where guests could bid on packages and items in various categories including art and photography, celebrity and collectibles, chairs of original design, children’s items, clothing and accessories, dining and entertainment, furniture, spa and wellness, sports zone, vacation and travel, and wine spirits and cigars. During the silent auction patrons dined on a buffet catered by Hog Wild Catering that featured garlic rubbed flank steak with horseradish aioli, cheese grits, spinach and artichoke dip, blackened chicken sliders, black bean caviar and an ultimate cheese ring to name a few. After the silent auction concluded, guests congregated in the auditorium for the live auction hosted by Jeff Morris where they bid on the evening’s more extravagant items such as 7-night steamboat cruise, a Memphis dining tour, vacations to New York and Las Vegas, Memphis Tigers and NASCAR packages and a 2015 Nissan Rouge.

See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Valerie and Jeff Morris

Story by Patrick Lantrip Photos by Don Perry

Mickey and Cindy Hollis

Chirag and Mandy Chauhan

Jenna Thompson and Tom Marsh

Polly and Bob Richards

Alice Roberts and Pat Halloran with Sara and Kevin Adams

Ed and Jamelle Magee

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Judy and Leland Gupton

Jenny and Sarkis Kish

Karen and Ken Issacman

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Frank and Helen Harris

Donna Darwin and Michael Kelly

Sara Clarke-Lopez and Ken Lopez

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Liz and Ed Gillentine

Lorri and Pete Cordelli with Laura OMell

Mary and Patrick Halloran

Larrie Rodriguez and Michael Ingalsbe

Locke Issacson, Jordan Taylor, Jennifer Brown and Liza Routh

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EVENT ORPHEUM THEATRE AUCTION GALA

Amy Lindeman and Layne Wilson

Peggy and Dow Gann

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Valerie and Barry Sturghill

Dan and Marti Murphy

Kip Meyer and Tim Tanner

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Wren and Heather Baker

Chuck and Mercedes Treadway

Chris and Jessica McKnett

Emily Brueck and Brad Dunn

Jessica and Mike Simpson

Mike Wilson and Lori Turner Wilson

EVENT ORPHEUM THEATRE AUCTION GALA

Gretchen and Brandon McGuire

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Kirsten and Brandon Birkhead

Doron and Linda Rozen with Marilyn Kain and Paul Coombs RSVP

Karan and Harry Zepatos

Jenny Davis and Gregg Coats

Barbara Parham with Mike and Gail Huey

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EVENT ORPHEUM THEATRE AUCTION GALA

Jackie and Nicky Crawford

Anne and Bill Russell

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Debbie Marshall and Greg Bowden

Rajitha Ravva and Ranjit Komeravelli

Kerry and Geoff Parks

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Richard and Ronda Champlin

Susan and Don Hunsberger

Paige Savage and Chrisida Shaw

Shawn Wood and Lisa Harris

Jennifer and Tommy Brown

Lonnie Jones and Jerome Fulton

STREETSEEN

Caitlin Horton and Rebecca Phillips “Memphis Types History”

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ometimes it takes an outsider to point out the beauty of something right in front of you. Caitlin Horton, from Mississippi, and Rebecca Phillips, from Texas, have done that just that with their first book “Memphis Types History: Signs and Stories from Just Around the Corner.” The book explores the plethora of signage throughout the city that many Memphians walk by everyday. Think the Joe’s Wine and Liquors spinning sputnik or the winged skates of Skateland, signs that we see everyday but have forgotten why they are there. Phillips, an artist, brings these signs to life with her expressive illustrations. Horton writes down the stories of these forgotten places and moments of time, capturing the feeling of these landmarks through lively interviews and shared stories of Memphians. In total, Horton and Phillips have created a book that pays homage to the unique artwork that dots the city as well as remembers a place in time as Memphians recall it. Phillips and Horton explain that the book is part of a larger project started by Jeremy Greene, a local photographer, called “Memphis Types.” Greene began capturing interesting Memphis signage in a series of photos taken around town. Phillips says that she was inspired by her friend Greene’s work and began illustrating different signs and locations around the city. She developed it into an art series called “Memphis Types Illustrated.” Oftentimes, at the art shows for the series, Phillips recalls that people would come up to her and share their stories connected to a particular landmark or sign. “It was endearing and sweet, and it gave me glimpse into what life was like in the city that I have grown to love. Caitlin, at the time, was on a mission to support Memphis artists because she felt many were not getting their stories out there. From there emerged ‘Memphis Types History,’” Phillips states. “Memphis Types History” takes a close look at 19 different signs and locations, from those listed on the National Register of Historic Places to those that are not on any list, yet, represents a moment in time that was significant to the people connected to them. Horton and Phillips give the example of the Lamar Theatre as one of the locations covered in the book that is not officially recognized as a historic landmark, but was an important neighborhood hotspot that hosted a generation of first dates and Saturday movie marathons. Two other locations covered in their book that do have a place on the National Register of Historic Places, the Universal Life Insurance Company (ULIC) and the Lorraine Motel, were also part of bringing the duo’s mission to bring the renowned and the littleknown Memphis landmarks to life. Horton explains that the ULIC Egyptian-Revival building, located on the corner of Linden and Danny Thomas downtown, is a site that many people are unaware had a historical impact on the city, especially during the Civil Rights movement. “It was one of the largest owned African American companies in the nation. Through interviews from locals like Art Gilliam, CEO and president of WLOK, we got a real picture how the building was literally a haven and a refuge during periods of unrest in the city as well as a business that gave African American families meaningful careers.” In the case of the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, Phillips and Horton assert how they were challenged to bring a new angle to the site. Horton says the book will give readers glimpse into what the site was like under Walter Bailey’s ownership as an upscale motel during segregation. “In the book, we describe what the décor looked like, and why it was styled the way that it was. We touch on the fact that it was one of the few places here that blacks and whites could be together without fear. It was an inclusion place for everyone, and it was created to be that way,” Horton describes. The two hope that the book will show Memphians how important their stories are, no matter how big or small, and that, by sharing our stories, we learn more about ourselves and the world around us. “I want to put something in people’s hands that they can say, ‘Wow, this is beautiful art, and it has beautiful stories to tell.’ Memphis is blossoming right now, and it’s becoming an exciting place full of opportunities. I am really excited to be apart of that,” Phillips declares. The two’s exploration of Memphis doesn’t stop with the book, Horton and Phillips continue with their blog on their website www.memphistypeshistory.com. They include new places that readers submit or the two have discovered as well as bonus interviews and stories about the sites in their book. The book is available at several local retailers like Burke’s Books and the Booksellers at Laurelwood. Pick up a copy of this fascinating look at the signs of Memphis! Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Steve Roberts

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STREETSEEN

Floyd Newman The Hardest Working Saxophonist in Show Business

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hile James Brown was dubbed “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business,” Floyd Newman is a surefire contender for The Hardest Working Saxophonist in Show Business. The legendary baritone saxophonist has a long list of accomplishments that span across music, education and mentorship. Getting his start with B.B. King, Newman became a staff musician at Stax Records as an essential part of bands like The MarKeys and the Memphis Horns. He is known for his recording of “Frog Stomp” and “Sassy” in 1963 as well as The Mar-Keys’ hit “Last Night,” which he co-wrote, played on and provided vocals to, in 1961. Recently, Newman has been honored for his exceptional music career with a Brass Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame, forever memorializing the legacy that has greatly influenced what is known as the “Memphis Sound.” “I have been fortunate enough to play with so many artists, meet so many important people, super stars, and work with them. I am really blessed,” Newman humbly asserts, reflecting on his illustrious career. When asked how he discovered his talent for music, Newman reveals that it was his mother that encouraged him to play the piano, which eventually lead him to take an interest in his father’s alto saxophone. Newman continues with a surprising quirk about the baritone saxophone his father purchased for him for a college jazz group and the one he still owns, saying, “It cost $200, which was a whole lot of money in 1949. That horn is the very same horn I have used my entire career. No other musician can say that.” That baritone saxophone, says Newman, was meant to be. Newman states that after his time served in the army during the Korean War playing for the band, he toured briefly with Percy Mayfield, and then he joined B.B. King’s band, traveling the U.S. in a blur of one-nighters at clubs and music halls. After finding himself once again in Memphis, Newman started to notice new kid on the block, Stax Records, which, luckily enough, was a mere two blocks away from where he was staying with his parents. Newman joined up with the musicians at Stax and was soon involved in several aspects of the studio, recording with Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Albert King, to only name a few of the super stars that Newman complimented with his baritone saxophone. Newman states that, often, he was the only black man in the bands he was apart of, breaking the rules of segregation that was the standard for many of the bars and clubs he played in. Newman also led the house band at the famed Plantation Inn in West Memphis. It was then that Newman extended a place in the band for a young musician named Isaac Hayes. Among others, Newman continued to be a guiding force and mentor for Hayes in his musical career. Newman has an eye for inherent musical talent and was responsible for introducing many young musicians to Stax such as Booker T. Jones. Newman recalls recognizing the high school boy’s talent, describing, “I would pick Booker T. up on Fridays and Saturdays and drop him off around 2 or 3 a.m. Booker T. told me recently that his dad didn’t let him go nowhere with anyone. I was the only person he ever trusted. You never know who is going to be famous.” As Stax was taken over by Atlantic Records, and while many other artists were struggling without the Stax anchor, Newman continued at full speed with Atlantic Records. “They started sending us, the Memphis Horns, all across the country from NYC to Miami to Muscle Shoals. They sent us everywhere,” Newman explains. If this schedule doesn’t sound busy enough, he was also teaching music and band at the same time. Working at a school near an airport, Newman describes how he kept up with this chaotic schedule. “At noon, every Friday, I would check my horn at the airport. Then, when school let out at 2 p.m., I would hop on a plane. So every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, I performed. Monday morning, I would return and head straight back to school to teach,” Newman gleefully reveals. His wife, Jean, also taught math. Both the Newmans taught for the Shelby County Schools. They retired only to pick it up again, teaching this time for the Tunica County School District until they retired one more time. The energetic 83 year-old has not slowed down and will be featured in an episode of the TV One documentary show “Unsung” about his work with Otis Redding. The segment is set to air sometime in 2015. So keep your eyes peeled for the TV appearance of the Hardest Working Saxophonist in Show Business! Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

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VOX POPULAR

Vox Popular Q&A with Judy Peiser

RSVP: What is the mission of the Center of Southern Folklore? Peiser: Our raison d’être is to use whatever ways possible to document, describe and present cultures…men, women, children, musicians, dancers, artists, etc. We have talked to people from a variety of ethnic communities. So the mission is to document, present and preserve. The mission is not really about just having an archive of photographs and voices that are kept somewhere. The idea is to use festivals and events to spotlight these different people and voices.

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RSVP: What are some new and upcoming things we can expect from the Center in 2015?

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Peiser: We are developing a new website. It will be much more of an interactive place that will allow us to present a lot more media. So if you are interested in an interview with Joyce Cobb, you can watch it easily. If you want to know about Reverend Lonzie Odie Taylor, you can just click on a link. If you want to know about last year’s festival, you can easily view it and learn about it. When we started doing the website years ago, none of this technology was available. Now there are so many tools available to make the Center’s mission and collections easy to access online. We want to link music and interviews to YouTube so that more people can view it. We have a grant that I hope to have matched. With this grant match, I want the exhibits on the wall to come to life with a Quick Response (QR) code. Once we do that, we can travel with our exhibits all over the world. The QR code will allow us to go any where with that material and talk about Memphis and the Delta region.

Photos by Don Perry

udy Peiser, co-founder and executive producer of the Center for Southern Folklore, opened up the doors of the Center with the late William Ferris in 1972 with the intention of documenting what they thought were the disappearing parts of Southern culture. 43 years later, Southern culture continues to grow in a modern context, and Peiser and her team continue to bring the diverse voices of the region, past and present, to life through their groundbreaking multimedia documentation. RSVP editor Rachel Warren chatted with Peiser about the modern and diverse voices of Southern culture, the Center’s use of new technology to bring these voices to life and what we can expect this year from their annual Labor Day Weekend Memphis Music & Heritage Festival. shayrt.” It was meant to be. I was in theatre when I was a kid. I have always been producing. I want to tell people’s stories. My father was a lawyer, and my entire family are big talkers. I grew up in a world of stories. I started out making films in graduate school in 1968. We were making films about poverty. It had a major impact on me. My graduate film was “The War on Poverty: The Memphis Front.” After that, I realized that I never wanted to see a film where a child was bitten by a rat again. It taught me a lot about what I didn’t want to do. I didn’t want to do hard documentaries. I would rather talk about what is good rather than what is bad. I was beginning to learn about the possibilities of multimedia. This was in 1968, and we were talking about how soon there would be a screen that you can pull down and watch TV on it. We knew that soon there would be new ways to utilize media. So the whole sense that you could record someone and there could be documents made from that, whether it was an exhibit, film, TV show, or festival, was dawning on us. So over the years, the work that we have done has been presented in a number of ways. The first film we did was about a mule trader. We produced a film, record and a book on him. We used everything. Over the years, we have done a whole lot with performances. We have always been able to attract diverse audiences and celebrate them. We have worked with many different people. We have worked with B.B. King, Bobby Rush, Rufus Thomas and Eudora Welty. If you can learn from people like that and share experiences so that everyone is on the same plane, I think that is what life is about. I think that is really the essence of the Center.

RSVP: Tell us a little about your background and the creation of the Center.

RSVP: After 43 years how do you feel looking back on the Center?

Peiser: I graduated from the University of Illinois, but I am from Memphis. I never thought I would come back to Memphis. I did come back and went the University of Memphis. David Yellin moved back to Memphis and he was in the University of Memphis’ theatre department and the communications department. Yellin’s big thing was media. I decided then that I wasn’t going to be a lawyer like everyone else in my family. I wanted to do something with media. Now I realize it was meant to be. The Yiddish phrase is “beh

Peiser: The Center started in my parent’s house. Then it moved from there to 1261 Peabody, which is where the Church Health Center is now located. Our archives then consisted of a bookshelf. Now the archives are in a large room as well as two other storage areas. We have digital copies in other places. We were located on Peabody in the 70s. At one point, we had two places. We redid the old Daisy in 1982, and then we moved three different places: where Club 152 is now, in the upstairs, where Hard Rock Café is now and

RSVP: How extensive is the Center’s multimedia archive? Peiser: Very extensive! There is at least an hour’s worth of footage from each interview. We have been trying to catalog and digitize it. We have just finished digitizing 28 years worth of material. We did our first festival in 1982, which was then called the Mid-South Folk Life Festival. We have been digitizing some of the first festivals that the Center had. We were on Beale Street during that time so we couldn’t really do a big festival. The festival grew from the Mid-South Folk Life Festival to the Mid-South Music & Heritage Festival to the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival. Early on we were really able to capture people’s imagination. The way we program it, it’s not just the gospel stage here and one thing only here. We program it so people have to walk around, and they love what they hear and see. I think that it is a major postage stamp for the city. I am proud of the festival and our films. I am proud of the people that have worked here that have gone on to do great things. I never thought I’d stay in Memphis, but when you realize how unique Memphis is and how special it is to a lot of people, you want to stay. I’d like to continue the growth of the Center and keep the genuine and interesting spirit of the people that have been apart of the Center in tact. I think the voice, the music and the art from the Memphis area is critical to understanding what this region is all about. I never would have said that 43 years ago. I thought we were documenting the quickly disappearing parts of our culture. Now I see that what we are doing is celebrating culture and understanding ourselves. When we are able to talk about who we are, the more proud we can be. The city needs to have a place and a space to talk

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about the positive things of everyone’s lives and see through the negativity. We want to remember stories, people, jokes…a time and a place. The more ways we can celebrate the positive nature of the real essence of culture, life and music, the more we realize how essential the culture is.

Peiser: We are hoping for more people from outside the country to attend. I am working on some possibilities of some overseas performers coming here. I am hoping that we will be able to promote it even more this year. I want the festival to grow another block. With the right funding, we could really expand. There are so many people who want to perform. We have had some great additions to the festival such as Spoken Word, various forms of hip hop and gospel, rock and alternative music. Each year we like to add something. We are not only about the festival though. The festival is a special time, but we do programs for kids, cultural programs and tours. We have people from Japan to Florida coming here to find out what the region is all about. We do that as well with the young people who live in Memphis. We want them to know where they are from. Right here in Heritage Hall, we host musical performances, a diverse mix of performers, every weekend. We have hosted groups like the Three Kings and, recently, the Daddy Mack Blues Band. There is something for everyone. RSVP: What are some upcoming exhibits? Peiser: One is called “Tell Me About Memphis, Tell Me All About Memphis.” The exhibit will share many of the things that are a part of that diverse Memphis. It has received a grant from ArtsMemphis. The company that we are talking with to make this happen has developed a mobile app. We hope that it may be possible for people to view the exhibit by phone. We have got it all together, but we are waiting for more of the funding to fall into place. The mission of this exhibit is to introduce Memphis to itself. I think it could end up as a permanent exhibit here but would also travel. We hope to have this up by the time the festival runs. RSVP: How can people support the Center? Peiser: We need day time and weekend volunteers who can help. We want to really focus on digitalizing our archives and use the many possibilities that are out there for using that digitalized content. We have a good handle of the Reverend Lonzie Odie Taylor collection, which is composed of 7,000 photographs, 15 hours of film footage and an amazing amount of artifacts. It is a major collection. That is just one example of our many collections. Interested volunteers can click on the “More” tab of our website. We do need contributions. People’s support will help our archives, performances, festivals and our general operations, which is critical. You can easily donate and sign up to volunteer on our website at www.southernfolklore.com.

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RSVP: What are some of the things that will be coming to the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival in 2015?

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where Wet Willie’s is now. With each move we did better stuff. In 2000, we moved to the 119 South Main Street location. We started to do exhibits on rock and soul music. With the festival now, we get such a good mix of different people. People of all ages want to come to the festival, see it and learn about it. What we try to do is provide a palate for people to learn from, enjoy and celebrate. We work with a lot of foreign people too. I work with Graziano Uliani, who runs a soul music festival in Italy called Poretta Soul Festival. Rufus Thomas performed several times there. One year, I received an award there. I asked Uliani why I got the award, and he said, “Don’t you remember? You introduced me to Rufus Thomas!” Now the festival takes place in a park called Rufus Thomas Park. We get people from Sweden who are asking who will be the rockabilly acts this year at the Heritage Festival. I think that the Center fills a cultural void. Some people have called it a museum. It is not a museum. It is an interpretive center. We present, tell people and show people. I would like to add more interactive exhibits. Recently, some women came through the Center and pointed to a picture we had up of Furry Lewis, the blues performer. They said, “That’s Mr. Furry!” The told me they had all lived in the same building and storefront on Beale with Furry. They said that frequently musical visitors would come to see Furry at the store, and they would put on a show for everyone in the back alley. You have got to be able to listen and find those things out.

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RSVP Featured Wedding

Photos by AK Vogel Photography www.akvogel.com

Adams 6& Stringfellow 14 14 •

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he wedding of Conlee Adams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Adams, and Alex Stringfellow, son of Dan and Maria Stringfellow, was held on

June 14, 2014 at 7 p.m. The ceremony took place at the Holy Communion Episcopal Church with a reception following at the Memphis Hunt & Polo Club. The night ended with an after party at Café Keough. The Madison Hotel was the site of the rehearsal dinner the evening before, highlighted by cocktails on the rooftop. The bride and groom displayed as much of Memphis possible throughout the wedding festivities. The bride helped design her bridal gown with fashion designer Nardos Imam of Dallas, Texas. The veil was Conlee’s “something borrowed” from a close childhood friend. Bridesmaids wore three different style navy dresses from Bella Bridesmaid. The wedding cake and the groom’s cake were created by Cakes by Mom and Me. Continuing the emphasis on Memphis, the groom’s cake showcased the Memphis skyline. The reception was a magical night orchestrated by Russell and Ruthie Events. The Garden District decorated with lights and an array of summer flowers, and guests packed the dance floor decked in hats and boas celebrating with The Big Swing & The Ballroom Blasters.

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Photos by The Lucy Studio Photography lucystudio6160@aol.com

Domino & Colella 10 11 14 •

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aley Victoria Domino and Dr. Dominic M. Colella were married in a beautiful ceremony at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on October 11, 2014 at 7:00 in the evening. The bride is the daughter of Sheila Kirksey Lindsey of Eads, Tennessee and Frank Domino, Jr. of Indianola, Mississippi. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Colella of Addison, Illinois. The stunning beauty of the cathedral, thirty-six pew markers, a trumpeter, and a wedding party of twenty-four close friends and family highlighted the ceremony. The bride honored her late grandparents by placing picture charms as well as several brooches belonging to her grandmother in her vintage flower bouquet. Immediately following the ceremony, the celebration continued at a reception held in the grand ballroom at Colonial Country Club. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by dinner and dancing to music from the 70s, 80s and 90s by The Dantones. A big surprise came when the groom’s uncle, a member of the band Styx, performed a song for the happy couple. The couple departed the reception through a line of guests and family waiving giant sparklers. After their honeymoon to Bora Bora, the couple now resides in Miami, Florida.

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RSVP Featured Wedding

Photos by Lynne Brubaker Photography, Inc. www.lynnebrubaker.com

Cowart & O’Mell 8 30 14 •

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atherine Lawrence Cowart and William Brandon O’Mell married at St. John’s Episcopal Church on August 30, 2014. The bride wore an organic multi-layered lace dress with a matching long lace veil. The Memphis Brass Quintet started off the night with a musical prelude prior to the ceremony for guests to enjoy. Immediately following the ceremony, the celebration continued at the Memphis Country Club. As guests entered, they were greeted with a champagne bar as saxaphonist Jim Spake helped to set the mood musically. Greg Campbell at Garden District installed white panels of fabric covering the walls matched with sleek white furniture and sectionals in every room for guests to relax and enjoy the night. Large banana and Monestera leaves, along with white orchid sprays and Manzanita branches were also placed in various spots around the reception to create a classic, elegant and lush look. Az Izz made the night unforgettable with its soul and party music that kept guests dancing all night long along with many party props such as mustaches, boas, top hats and masks. After the last song was played and the last of the late night patty melts were devoured, the couple departed in a red convertible with fountain fireworks lining their exit. The O’Mells spent their honeymoon in Las Ventanas Cabo and the wineries of Napa.

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RSVP Featured Wedding

Photos by Blake Brooks Photography www.blakebrooksphoto.com

Daniel & Shores 6 7 14 •

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mily Shea Daniel and Robert Andrew Shores married on June 7, 2014 in their hometown of Memphis, Tenn. The couple met the morning of their nuptials on the Peabody Hotel Rooftop for a first look and a moment together just hours before saying, “I do.” The bridal party, which consisted of siblings, long-time friends and the groom’s father as best man, joined for a group photo shoot and trolley ride to the wedding venue, the Balinese Ballroom of Memphis. The couple was surrounded by close family and friends in a garden inspired ceremony beautifully officiated by Reverend Michael Sadler of Hope Presbyterian Church. Immediately following the ceremony, the guests moved upstairs for a reception where the garden theme carried over with the help of Darling Flowers. The reception featured catering by the Balinese Ballroom, a wedding cake from La Baguette Bakery & Café, a Gibson’s Donut bar and a night of dancing with Jimmy Harris of DeepBlu Entertainment. The newlyweds left the following morning for a trip throughout Portugal, where they enjoyed history, culture, port wineries, golfing and beaches. The Shores happily reside in East Memphis and have recently expanded their family by adopting a kitten from the Memphis Humane Society.

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Photos by Snap Happy Photography www.snaphappyphotography.com

Donnelly & Mote 8 9 14 •

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nna Katherine Donnelly, daughter of Joseph and Patricia Donnelly, and Steven Keith Mote Jr., son of Steve and Jean Mote, married at 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2014. The weekend kicked off with close family and friends for the rehearsal night’s activities with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served under a beautiful sunset on the Madison Hotel rooftop. The wedding ceremony was held in a very special place for the Donnelly family, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where the bride attended school and where her parents married 38 years ago. The reception was hosted downtown at the beautiful Columns at One Commerce Square where more than 350 guests celebrated through the night. Southern Event Planners assisted in putting together a spectacular wedding day that included stunning flower arrangements and gorgeous décor. Party Planet set the mood with good tunes like Elvis’ “Jailhouse Rock,” with guests donning replica pairs of the King’s famous sunglasses. After CFY Catering passed out mini boxed pizzas to conclude the night, the couple exited the reception into a confetti shower and rode away in a horse carriage. The newlyweds honeymooned at the Sugar Beach Resort in Soufriere, Saint Lucia. The couple extends a heartfelt “thank you” to everyone that assisted in making August 9th the greatest day of their lives.

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RSVP Featured Wedding

Photos by Leslee Mitchell www.lesleemitchell.com

Murphy & Stovall 5 24 14 •

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lliott Grant Stovall and Katy Linn Murphy dreamed of a very intimate wedding ceremony and decided to have their wedding in a place where no one else had ever wed. On May 24, 2014 the couple wed at Elliott’s parent’s farm amid the beauty of their secluded property. The 30-acre horse farm was transformed into an elegant wedding venue. Absolutely every flower and detail was in white, creating an atmosphere of purity and romance. Katy was stunning in her custom-made Olia Zavozina dress from Maggie Louise Bridal Boutique, and the men were handsome in their black coat tails. Bridesmaids wore Belsoie dresses in vanilla. The ceremony took place in a clearing in a pasture. Katy and Elliot stood under an arch made of birch branches, trailing vines and exchanged vows as a string quartet played softly. Afterwards, guests sipped cocktails in the shade of a massive red tin roofed outdoor arena. As the evening progressed, hundreds of tiny bistro lights kept guests celebrating under the stars. After sumptuous dinner prepared by Cindy Krag Catering & More, the band Party Planet had guests dancing until midnight. The bride wore a stunning Zimmermann gown as her going away outfit. The newlyweds were sent off in a white vintage 1978 MG.

THE AMBASSADOR SERIES

The Ambassador Series By Eugene Pidgeon

THE PERRY-SCOPE

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n Friday, January 2, 2015, Mayor-Elect Muriel Bowser will be sworn in as the new mayor of Washington, D.C. She will succeed the incumbent Vincent C. Gray and will be installed as only the second female to have held the position after Sharon Pratt Kelly, the third mayor of the District of Columbia who navigated the seat from 1991-1995. “I’ll be at the inauguration, I hope,” chimes an excited Perry Pidgeon Hooks from her home office in Bethesda, Maryland, ground zero for all things culturally mobile and politically relevant in the fabled “Capital Beltway.” Most assuredly, Hooks’ inaugural credentials and ballroom invitations are being drafted accordingly. Hooks was an advisor to the Bowser campaign and was asked by the candidate to be a part of the mayoral “transition team.” “We are all so excited for her. She won by a margin of 20 percent of the popular vote.” Hooks remembers well how she and Muriel Bowser first intersected with each other. “I was a member of the 2013 Leadership Greater Washington Class. In 2012, my daughter Julia was in her freshman year at Colgate University, so I decided to apply for membership.” Not too dissimilar from Leadership Memphis, Leadership Greater Washington was established in 1986 under the banner of The Greater Washington Board of Trade, The Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation and the Junior League of Washington. The mission statement of the foundation is to identify and connect diverse leaders and stimulate their collaborative efforts through “It is an annual class of about 60 people from D.C., Maryland and Virginia who adjourn monthly to learn about the city and network. There is some exclusivity, and it is very competitive, and I am very grateful I got in,” Hooks asserts. “One of my clients suggested I apply, and that’s how I got in.” Hooks admits that until she got the notion from her client to apply, she had never fully envisioned herself in such a way. “When I applied and was putting together my volunteer resume, it was more extensive than I had at first realized. We had implemented, in my company Hooks Book Events (HBE), sort of a give back charter when my business partner Loretta

Yenson and I created HBE in 2007. There was a volunteer aspect, where we would use books and ideas to further a social agenda and not a political agenda.” It was through the Leadership Greater Washington Class of 2013 that Hooks and Bowser first met. “At the time she was Council member for Ward 4 in Washington.” Ward 4 is a diverse cross section of communities, linking the northeast neighborhoods of Lamond-Riggs to portions of Chevy Chase west of Rock Creek Park. Perry Hooks and Arianna Huffington

“We had heard through the grapevine, when our class was announced, that someone from our class was going to possibly run for mayor,” Hooks says. “I had no idea who it was as I really did not know much about D.C. politics at the time. I had not really tracked it. Although, I had supported the former mayor, Adrian Fenty, a close friend of Muriel’s who was also a council member for Ward 4.” Hooks maintains she had always been more interested in the bigger issues of federal government. “I had never really waded into the quagmire of municipal government. My experience over the last two years with Leadership Greater Washington has really gotten me excited about the idea of municipalities as government entities that are getting stuff done and really doing innovative things on the ground, regardless of red or blue.” Further, Hooks submits, “The mayors and the cities have to fill the potholes, they have to educate the kids, they have to deal with the homeless, they have to deal with growth and economic development and disparity.” “They really cannot wait around for the Federal Government to come up with all of the answers. Certainly, there should be a partnership between the states and

the feds. The mayors just seem to be getting things done. But, of course, I am just a little partial to mayors now because of Muriel.” Perry Hooks has been getting things done since she was a student at the Hutchison School for girls where she graduated with honors in 1975. Her academic establishment was expanded at the University of Virginia. Always a stalwart advocate of the written word and a fiercely driven advocate of the authors who compose them, Hooks convened an idea with a precisely focused enthusiasm to launch Hooks Book Events in 2007. After many years of working from event to event in various capacities as marketer, host, producer, she consolidated her efforts and created HBE as a means to link independent bookstores, such as the former Davis-Kidd in Memphis and Nashville and Politics and Prose in Washington D.C., with authors to create a network of events to promote the independent spirit of voice and venue. To date HBE has sponsored and promoted quite a vast assortment of literary gatherings. The roster of authors who have benefited by their association with HBE are myriad and often disparate. Arianna Huffington, “Thrive” (Harmony 2014), Sebastian Junger, joined with HBE for the Washington D.C. premiere of Restrepo in the fall of 2010, and Tom Brokaw worked in conjunction with HBE to introduce “The Time of Our Lives” (Random House 2011). Yet above it all, Perry Hooks is most proud of her family. Her son Alexander is with Bank of America and is being groomed for greatness through an executive program in Charlotte, North Carolina. Daughter Julia is now a junior at Colgate where she is pursuing a degree in neuroscience. “I owe so much to my husband Dennis. I don’t think I could have done as much as I have been able to do without him,” she offers firmly. “Indeed, there is so much to be thankful for in my life. I have been so blessed.” And as she readies herself for the upcoming inaugural celebrations of her friend and colleague Muriel Bowser, Perry Pidgeon Hooks remains forever mindful of another innovative political figure, Thomas Jefferson, who said, “I cannot live without books.” A mandate that continues to serve us all.

EVENT

Red Boa Ball

RED BOA BALL

Benefiting the American Red Cross of the Mid-South

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Johnnie and K.K. Gross

Amanda Odegard and Eric Fountain

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he night called for boas, red feathered boas to be exact! The American Red Cross of the Mid-South threw their fifth annual fund-raiser event at the picturesque Memphis Botanic Garden. Over 350 guests, many attired in their best dressy red outfits, attended the ball. A red boa, happily draped on the shoulders or hung around the necks of men and women attendees alike, completed the red theme of the evening. From all corners of Memphis, supporters arrived to celebrate the hard work the Mid-South Red Cross does as well as give support to an organization that lifts up Memphians during their most difficult life moments. In the front lobby, guests chatted and grabbed a cocktail as they took in the large silent auction set up through the hallways of the Botanic Garden. The auction offered a little something for everyone. In a slump as far as date nights go? Guests could bid on an Overton Square, Cooper-Young or Midtown date night package that included gift cards to select restaurants and tickets to movies and theatres in the area. For the rock ‘n’ roll enthusiast there were several Elvis Presley memorabilia items a special hot chocolate with the King’s image printed on the package and an Elvis Fan basket that came with VIP Entourage Tour tickets at Graceland. Those who wanted a fun souvenir of the night could pose for a photo session with a photographer in their red ensemble. A specialty cocktail was served by local Pyramid Vodka distillery. The distillery created their take on a Moscow Mule called the Madrid Mule, showcasing their Memphis-made vodka mixed with ginger beer, grapefruit juice and a hint of lime. The festivities continued as dinner was served, and partygoers tucked into a gourmet entrée of chicken and roast alongside au gratin potatoes. Red lights in the dining area set the mood. Tables were decorated with centerpieces made of red flowers and feathers. The flowers, donated by Kroger, were crafted into stunning centerpieces by Bouquets of Hope, a job training and volunteer ministry of Catholic Charities of West Tennessee. The flowers were later repurposed in nursing homes, hospices and for others in need. Each table also had a sign that listed a reason to support the American Red Cross, explaining one of the many community services they provide. A live auction got the energy in the room going with steals such as a Horseshoe Lake vacation package, a “Bourbon and Dinner with Friends” package hosted by Chef Cullen Kent of Café Society and a “Private BBQ Festival” right in one’s backyard and conducted by Victory Lane BBQ. A special live auction item was the chance to help the Mid-South Red Cross buy a Ford F150 to help the organization mobilize disaster relief support. Laura Vaughn, Mid-South Chapter Red Cross executive officer, said, “From every dollar given tonight, 91 cents goes straight back to the disaster relief services the Red Cross provides the Mid-South community. Among those many services, we serve an average of three families a day who are impacted by fire in the Mid-South.” The American Red Cross works hard to provide disaster relief, support military families, supply donated blood and health and family services. Alice Higdon, who chaired the event, was happt to report that the organization raised approximately $150,000 at this annual event.

See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Elizabeth and Jerry Lowe

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Patrick Lantrip

Curt and Jodi Runger

Natalie and Branden Woods

Jim and Karen Martin

Alice Higdon and Laura Vaughn

Patrick Hendricks, Kontiji Anthony, Claire Rossie and Philip Gattas

Diana Weir and Clay Sanders

EVENT RED BOA BALL J A N UA R Y 2 015

Russ and Karen Ellis

Chris and Tracy Houstin

Hollie and Todd Steele

Kenzey and Greg Wilson

Claire and Billy Moss

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Scott and Glenda McDonald

Charlie Mock and Megan Flowers

Dare Estok and Larry Bomar

Angie Huffman and Scott Branson

Steven Medlock and Graham Askew

Karen and Rick McKinley

RED BOA BALL E V E N T Nick Leonard and Rachel Wheatley

Gail Minor and Tracy Lawson

Beth Flanagan and Tim Maxwell

Janie Cotton and Tom Campbell

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Josie and Ron Walker

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Linda Forbess and Judy Coburn

Willetta Harris and Shirley Dixon

Ben and Jennifer Kennedy

Kevin Kuhns and Janelle Wynn

Scott and Diana Crenshaw

Rob and Kim Cribb

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Phil and Melinda Russell

Sean and Ronda Berry

Rena Montgomery and Stacy Willis

Barbara Brevard and Sue Myers

Meagan and Jason Richards

Colleen Wilson and Catherine Harris

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Lance and Laura Gehring

Jessie Walker and Chris Wiley

Robin Williams, Gary Millender, Ruth Williams and Captain Robert Dews

Joe and Angela Grai

Mike and Marion Donohoe with David Elliot

EVENT RED BOA BALL Wanda Doyle and Quadricqus Brewster

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Stephanie and Phillip Johns

Jim, Laura and Brooks Crone RSVP

Shawn Sandy, Martyn Hammond and Holli Aylward

Brandy Aden with Scott and Pam Weakley

EVENT

Art on Fire

ART ON FIRE

Heating Up the Arts

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Chantal Drake and Margarita Sandino

Kimberly and Elliot Perry

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ixon Gallery & Gardens knows how to throw a party unlike any other. The difference? The heat, and not the humid Memphis weather either. In fact, the weather was perfect for this year’s annual Art on Fire, which took place outdoors on a cool, beautiful fall night on Dixon’s South Lawn. Before reaching the party destination, guests strolled downhill along a curvy pathway that led through luscious, overhanging trees while the sounds of heavy base of live music filtered through the woods. As the pathway drew closer to the event, white, overhead strings of lights came into view and the canopy of trees opened up displaying the hottest outdoor party in the city of Memphis. Lined along the entire right side of the lawn were dozens of booths with local Memphis restaurants offering guests everything from salads to entrees and S’mores to pizza. Whether craving delicious fine-dining foods from restaurants such as Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen and Sweet Grass or preferring more casual cuisine from Memphis Pizza Café and Jim ‘N Nicks BBQ Restaurant, there was no shortage of options to choose from to satisfy palates. Frost Bake Shop was there providing charming mini cupcakes, and, if an energy boost was needed after indulging in the plethora of tasty options, Java Cabana Coffeehouse was the perfect place for a hot cup of coffee with whipped cream on top. Some partygoers, however, got their energy fix from one of the outdoor bars, which readily offered beer, wine and liquor until the very end of the night. Safe to say, everyone’s appetites were thoroughly satisfied, whether it be with food, drink or both. Along with the food, the entertainment was equally as plentiful. On one side of the lawn was a stage roaring with sound that fused through the entire lawn and kept the party bumping. The sounds of the night included music that fit right in with the Memphis atmosphere. Grace Askew performed a mix of authentic blues and country and Bluff City Backsliders ended with the night with an upbeat, powerful fusion of funk and blues that was hard not to dance to. Towards the middle of the lawn stood a massive projection screen showing the critical football games of the night, which fanatics thoroughly appreciated. Competitive natures also carried over to the silent auction portion of the night’s activities, where guests began a heated bid battle for a variety of premium items. Those looking for a more laid back atmosphere could sit by the bonfire – a work of art in itself with flickering green flames. The art of the night, the literal art on fire, was a spectacular fire eating and spinning performance by Beyond Wings, an elite group of professionals that offer various acts such as aerial, bellydance, fire and LED performances. Art is portrayed in many forms, and it was definitely alive at this year’s Art on Fire.

Andrew Everett and Chelsea Norman

Larrie Rodriguez and Michael Ingalsbe

Story by Emily Anderson Photos by Daniel Frederick See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Frances Berry and Tyler McClendon

Chad Braddock and A.J. Northrop

Darby Farmer and Kimberly Tayloe

Jean Jacques Calabrese, Conroy Kanter, Michael Varner and Allie Varner

Renee Wills and Carlyle White

ART ON FIRE E V E N T Chris and Anna Vescovo

Shea Lackie and Caroline Billups

Dan and Lisa Singer

Amy and Josh Poag

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Marina and John Bogan

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Myra Deyhle and Heather Koury

Jayne Barton and Don Hundley

Josh and Rebecca Reid

Ricky and Catherine Harris

Nicole Fox and Pam Davis

Kathy Palmer and Kayla Palmer

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Becky Davis and Anitha Nair

Jason and Wunita Spigner

Sarah Virden Gillis and Kimsey King

Laura Gray and John McCann

Wilson and Allison Pace

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Christopher and Allison Cook

Nikki McKnett and Stanford Roberts

Stuart and Katie Harris

Jed and Leanne McQuown

Mary and Jacob Davis

Asima Farooq and Tara Engelberg

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“A Pink Affair”

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When guests arrived at the fifth annual A Pink Affair, they were met by firemen dressed in pink uniforms standing in front of a pink fire truck. As they made their way to the door of the BRIDGES Center, they walked down the pink carpet where paparazzi waited to take their pictures. Inside the venue, decorative touches brought the pink theme to life, from the pink ostrich feathers arranged on the tables to the pink outfits that the members of the 4851 Jazz Band wore. BRIDGES Vice President of Communications, Staci Franklin, and her fund-raising group Staci & Friends for a Cure presented the event, which benefited the Wings Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides help for medically underserved breast cancer survivors. Elegant Eye Catering, Décor, & More served hot hors d’oeuvres, including a mashed potato bar, and a three-layer pink polka dot cake for dessert. Keri Burnette, executive director of Wings, made remarks, and the announcement of a vacation raffle winner ended the program. The lucky prizewinner got the choice of a destination trip for a seven-day vacation to Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Orlando or Freeport Grand Bahamas. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

St. George’s Episcopal Church Arts DeNeuville Learning Center Winter Ball Gala & Antiques Arcade Preview Party

Memphis Consumer Credit Association and Regions Mortgage Benefit

Since 1971, St. George’s Episcopal Church has presented Mid-Southerners with the opportunity to purchase high-quality furnishings at its annual Arts & Antiques Arcade. Guests at the Preview Party were treated to a glimpse of items offered at the sale, including furniture, rugs, china, silver, jewelry and vintage linen. There was so much to see that it was impossible to take it all in during the party, so tickets included a three-day pass, allowing guests to come back every day to shop. Antique dealers from around the country joined local dealers La Maison Antiques, Millstone Market and Nursery, Antique Restoration Studio by Angela and Thomas M. Fortner. Waiters at the party passed through the crowd offering bacon-wrapped artichokes and gazpacho shots. Fascinating Catering Inc. provided the fare, which also included a buffet dinner. The Kathryn Stallins Band played and Ron Childers of WMC-TV conducted the live auction. The 2014 sale, chaired by Erika Ewen, benefited Emmanuel Center, the MidSouth Food Bank and the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association.

On a blustery evening, Welch Dining Hall on the campus of Hutchison School was filled not with students, but with adults who turned out for the 13th annual DeNueville Learning Center (DLC) Winter Ball Gala. The silent auction offered unique items, perfect for gift giving, including jewelry, trips – one was courtside seats and lodging for a Grizzlies away game – and an Italian dinner for 10 people, cooked by one of the Memphis Italian Fest teams. Chuck’s Catering provided a buffet of hors d’oeuvres. Project Motion, a modern dance ballet ensemble made up of Hutchison students, performed, and the Collierville United Methodist Church Bell Choir chimed a few holiday inspired pieces. Hutchison students regularly volunteer at DLC as part of the school’s Community Based Learning Program. Guests were treated to a video highlighting the clients of the center, which was written and produced by Hutchison students and depicted the impact DLC had in the lives of the women it serves through education and counseling. Sharon Ryan, senior vice president for International Paper, was honorary chair. Lori Bramlett, executive director of DLC, said 97 percent of the $50,000 the event generated went directly back to the operations of the center.

As the season of giving approaches, Memphis Consumer Credit Association and Regions Mortgage held their 3rd annual Auction & Wine Tasting benefiting Make-A-Wish® Mid-South. The silent auction held over 40 items this year. The food and wine was provided by Off The Square Catering and hosted wines from the Napa area like the Str. Suprey Sauvignon Banc and the Aquinus Pinot Noir. The wine paired beautifully with the wild mushroom crostinis and the spicy tuna tartar in wonton crisps. This year’s event also included a live auction and a wine grab. The live auction featured a Green Egg, a GoPro Hero 3+, a set of pearls and a two-night stay for one lucky couple to Secrets The Vine Cancun. The wine grab presented bottles of wine ranging from $15 to $100. Attendees could purchase a cork and win a bottle of wine. The event was a huge success and raised $10,000, of which 100 percent of the proceeds went to Make-A-Wish® MidSouth. Make-A-Wish® grants the wish of children diagnosed with a life- threatening medical condition. Over the past 5 years, Memphis Consumer Credit Association and Regions have been privileged to grant nine wishes.

Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Story Submitted Photos by Cara Marsico

Keri Burnette, Staci Franklin and Melissa William Jennifer Michalski, Paul Michalski and Terry Brough Joyce Venzina and Jan Corkern

Tony and Tami Salvaggio with Maria and Brad Lansing

Johnnie, Janice and Joyce Taylor Bill Thorsberg with Dorothy and Herb Wells and Mary Thorsberg

Luke and Joyce Harris

Erika Ewen and Tayler Ewen

Karley Bond and Tracy Dougan

Ed and Dessia Nichols

Seth Regenold, Greta Regenold, Toni Holmes, Gray Morrison and Rebekah Sudduth

The Crystal Awards Luncheon

Memphis Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

RiverArtsFest Preview Party

For more than 20 years, a number of Mid-Southerners have done what they do best and gathered at each other’s houses to play host and throw a good party. These parties, called A Place at the Table, however, are all in the name of helping their fellow man and woman. Supporters of Friends For Life have raised an average of $40,000 to $50,000 each year hosting dinner parties at their homes, parties of all kinds, from pizza parties at fraternity houses to multiple course meals in old Midtown mansions. Proceeds benefit those affected by HIV/AIDS to help them live well. This year the organization, the Mid-South’s oldest social service organization that serves people affected by HIV/AIDS, held a finale celebration at the conclusion of this year’s season of parties on at Minglewood Hall for all those hosts who threw parties. The evening included an ice cream bar, cocktails and entertainment by The Bouffants. Kroger and Macy’s sponsored the special evening. “It’s an opportunity to say thank you to all of our hosts and their guests and our friends,” Friends For Life Executive Director Kim Daugherty said. “It’s a way to bring people together for a fun night.” Friends For Life offers education, housing, food, transportation and healthy life skills training to clients and strives to enlighten the Mid-South community through awareness, facilitating acceptance and promoting prevention.

As with any major metropolitan area, many of the institutions and organizations that make Memphis a city of choice are held together by people behind the scenes who are willing to open up their purse strings as well as their calendars and give of their money and time. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Memphis Chapter tries to bring them out from behind the curtain by honoring several of these individuals and groups each year through their Crystal Awards Luncheon, usually held on National Philanthropy Day. Held at Holiday Inn University of Memphis, the luncheon honored recipients including City Auto for Outstanding Corporation, Sally Jones Heinz of MIFA for Outstanding Executive Leader, both Ethan Cohen, a graduate of St. George’s Independent School, and Bolton High School International Baccalaureate Students for Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, the Mystic Krewe of Pegasus for Outstanding Philanthropic Organization, Ellen Cooper Klyce for Outstanding Philanthropist, Kavanaugh Casey for Outstanding Fundraising Executive, and Meg and Scott Crosby for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraisers. Local favorite, Joe Birch of WMC-TV presented the awards and Rene Koopman provided the music while National Philanthropy Day Chair Carol Kirby introduced and closed the day’s events.

What better way to spend a Thursday evening than to be serenaded by Sam Moore of Sam & Dave or to watch Big Star bassist Andy Hummel’s son, Drew Hummel, cover some of his dad’s big hits? That’s what attendees and inductees, were treated to during the Memphis Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. The ceremony was more of a parade of all the talent held in one big small town set just above the Delta of the Mississippi River, as was noted by Mayor A C Wharton, who opened the ceremony by quoting several Memphis-born songs and commenting that most cities have to look outside of their city limits to find noteworthy candidates. This year’s inductees included Big Star, Lil Hardin Armstrong, Furry Lewis, Carl Perkins, Jesse Winchester, Ann Peebles, Al Bell, John Fry and Chips Moman. Famed comedian and the evening’s Induction host Marlon Wayans kept everyone on point with his antics. Other performers included Joyce Cobb, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Denise LaSalle and B.J. Thomas. Hummel played with the latest incarnation of Big Star that included the only living original band member, Jody Stephens, as well as former rockers Ken Stringfellow and Jon Auer of The Posies.

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Every October the section of South Main from Huling to Webster is closed off to make room for the nearly 200 artists from around the country that file into Memphis and set up shop along the corridor. Every year, the attendance to see what talent has been brought in magnifies. This year was no exception. More than 80,000 shoppers and perusers walked up and down the street, poring over the original paintings, glasswork, wood pieces and clothes during the annual RiverArtsFest. Many of those patrons got an early look during the festival’s Preview Party given the opportunity to beat the traffic and the lines. “This is a kick-off party to highlight the opening of RiverArtsFest and to say thanks to our sponsors and friends of the committee, special guests and the public,” Board Member Ellen Hornyak said. The party was held in the lot adjacent to Bluff City Coffee in a tent that offered special hors d’oeuvres along with beer and wine for ticket holders. “Really the party is on the street, but this is a place for people to come and sit down for a minute,” Artist Market Director Bonnie Thornton said. In addition to a weekend of arts and crafts, demos, live music and food vendors, the festival raises money to support the festival’s Art in the Schools program, which pays master artists to teach in classrooms of 10 local schools for arts programming.

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Laura Terry, Rick Bartl, Blake Meador and Kim Daugherty

John Hampton and Robin Robison Lisa Taylor and Bonnie Thornton Clay Smythe, Meg Crosby and Bubba Halliday

Tess Horowitz and Cameo Monroe

Gina Fortner, Robert Marcy and Rachel Brooks

Shauna Bateman, John Thatcher and Mary Braddock

Jonathan Pekar, Mamie Pike Shannon and Ian Roth

Carol Watkins with Lisa and John Kovach and Ellen Hornyak

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“A Place at the Table”

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Adapt-A-Door Auction Party Fundraiser March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction®

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Memphis Heritage, Inc. (MHI) hosted its sixth annual Adapt-aDoor Auction Party Fundraiser at Howard Hall. Through the support of local artists, architectural and design firms and other creative minds, doors were repurposed into redesigned objects. The resulting items were up for bid to raise money to support MHI. This year over 175 people attended the Adapt-a-Door event to bid on items created by Mary Norman, Lisa Tribo, Richard Carr, Suzanne Henley, Greeley Myatt, Valerie Berlin, Carol Sams, Haizlip Studios, Tim McCullough and many others. The items ranged from a potting cart to miniature artworks to freestanding closets and stylized tables. Will McGown’s “Poker Table” won the crowd’s vote for “Best of Door” and was featured in a bid-off in a live auction with Kacky Walton of WKNO FM serving as auctioneer. The host committee for the party included Alison and Taylor Berger, Carol DeForest and Barron Boyd, Suzanne Henley and Jim Cole, Anna and Tod Holtzclaw, Kathy Manning Loeb, Tommy Pancello and June West. Presenting sponsor was Kris Whitson of Delta Door and Hardware. Slider Inn, Bardog Tavern and Tart catered the event with pub grub and sweets, while Love Pop Soda Shop provided a tasting of their craft sodas. MHI board members provided wine and beer. The proceeds from the auctioned items will allow MHI to do what it does best – recycling the past through historic preservation.

The 24th annual March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction®, held at Minglewood Hall, brought together top local chefs to showcase their culinary masterpieces. This fund-raiser offered guests the opportunity to sample fare from some of the area’s best restaurants while mingling with local celebrity chefs. Lane and Demetri Patikas chaired the event. Michael Adrian Davis was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies and Jevon and Dorothy Sisnett with their children Addison and Ari served as this year’s Ambassador Family. In addition to tasting a wide variety of cuisine, partygoers also sampled fine wines, enjoyed musical entertainment by the party band Pearl and had the chance to bid on one-of-a kind packages in the live auction. Auctioneer Ken Roebuck kept the crowd excited about items such as a “Sunset Tapas Party,” a mink jacket, a diamond pendant, a dinner party for eight prepared by Chef Jimmy Gentry and stay at the Adagio resort in Florida, among many others. Participants in this year’s Signature Chefs Auction® “Music to Your Mouth” included lead chef Erling Jensen and Erling Jensen Restaurant, Babalu, Boscos, Café 1912, Central BBQ, Frost Bake Shop, Itta Bena, Las Tortugas Deli, to only name a few of the fabulous eateries that participated in this annual event. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Playhouse on the Square “Curtain Up” Memphis Farmers Market Barnyard Ball Playhouse on the Square held their annual Curtain Up fundraiser with the new theme of “I Love Memphis.” Held at the theatre, Playhouse celebrated all things Memphis with local bands, food and libations. As guests arrived, they were immediately surrounded by all the Memphis love with six different rooms designed with a unique Memphis twist. In the front lobby, The Mighty Souls Brass Band got the party started as guests indulged in a glass of beer from Ghost River Brewing. The lobby’s Sky Vodka ice luge was also a popular stop. On the rooftop, theatre supporters took in the spectacular view of the city as they got cozy in front of the bonfire and sipped specialty coffee liquor drinks. Brave souls took a journey underneath the stage and into the Trap Room where they enjoyed beers from Memphis Made Brewing and sandwiches from Finos Deli & Catering. For those who felt lucky, there was also poker and gambling as Papa Top’s West Coast Turnaround played. The Playhouse Café was the site of Memphis sounds like the Brennan Villines, Alexis Grace and Cooper Union. Upstairs in the Event Room, the Side Street Steppers entertained guests. On stage, there was Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous barbeque and The Bouffants closed out an amazing evening with an incredible performance. All proceeds benefited Playhouse on the Square.

Memphians turned out in droves to the Memphis Farmers Market (MFM) annual Barnyard Ball benefit. Attendees had a ball participating in a cakewalk, a silent auction, a live auction and nationally recognized local band Star & Micey. Held on an autumn day under the Central Station Pavilion, the event featured selections from restaurants all over town, food from MFM participating farmers as well as beer and wine. Both Bardog Tavern and MFM vendor Home Place Pastures offered up sliders. Rock’n Dough Pizza Company was also there, serving slices of their heavenly pie and the Rock’n Dough Brew Company offered glasses of their Rock’n Dough Amber beer. MFM volunteers were awarded for their services throughout the year and a live auction offered select packages like the chance to have Chef Kelly English of The Second Line and Restaurant Iris cook at you home. A Boots & Buckles contest completed the afternoon with attendees Tori Looke taking home the prize for best boots and Andy Niche winning for best belt buckle. All proceeds went to the MFM to fund the market’s operations throughout the year. Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Janina Laier and Kelly Cooper

Chris Jones and Irene Smith Barbara Loevy and Meryl Klein Ginny Taylor, Sarah Mercer and Amanda Higbie Jennifer Dickerson and Mac Edwards

Kacky Walton and June West

Bob Loeb and Nanette Farris

Laura Deakins and Addie McGowan

Allison Cook and Terre Gorham

art, food, drinks and even a harp player. Hope House is a nonprofit organization in Memphis that was founded by the Junior

The Girls Night Out event was definitely the place to be for any woman who enjoys food, shopping, music and socializing. However, it was much more than

League of Memphis (JLM) in

just shopping; it was shopping

1994. Hope House offers day

for a good cause! This event,

care, HIV testing and preschool

located at the Memphis Botanic

along with many other social

Garden and part of the Junior

services for children and parents

League of Memphis’ Merry

living in the Memphis area. Their annual Art for Hope is one event that funds their ability to offer these services. The night was sponsored by Medtronic, which

Market Place, directly supported all of the community projects that are continuously at work by Junior League of Memphis

not only offered money but time

(JLM). Not only supporting

as well. Guests were able to stroll

JLM, the event also supported

and shop through the JLM

the multitude of local vendors

Community Resource Center as

that attended. There were so

they admired art ranging from paintings and sculptures to Christmas ornaments. All of the art was local, so art purchased

“Sip Around the World” All aboard! The 20th annual Sip Around the World took guests on a worldwide winery tour without ever leaving the Memphis Botanic Garden. Athens Distributing Company generously provided patrons with over 300 wines from over 100 different wineries representing classic regions like France, Italy and California, as well as some emerging regions in Argentina, New Zealand, and others. The event was a fund-raiser for the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee, whose mission is to prevent kidney and other urological diseases, improve the well-being of those affected and to increase the availability of organs for transplant. Some of the highlights included multiple buffets catered by Just for Lunch spread out throughout the estate, a silent auction in Hardin Hall, a wine and food paring pavilion, a VIP lounge, a wine pull in the Goldsmith Room, wine cocktails with names like “Sideways,” “Sake Blossom,” and “West Coast Turnaround” in the Water Garden Room, and music by Jeff Fioranelli and Gerry Finney in Hardin Hall and the jazz trio, E Train in the VIP Lounge. All proceeds benefited the National Kidney Foundation of Tennessee. Photos and Story by Patrick Lantrip

many great holiday gifts (or something for yourself) to buy including candles, home décor,

not only supported the local

baked goods, accessories and

Memphis children but local

even puppy attire. Whole Foods

artists as well.

catered the event.

Story and Photos by Emily Anderson

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The Hope House hosted their Art for Hope event complete with

“Girls Night Out”

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“Art for Hope”

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Lisa Lynch and James Williams

Kris Adcock, Lindsay Sledd, Alex Satterfield and Scarlett Parks

Allison Yant, Lindsey Renovich, Jenny Haddad and Sara Madasu

Alex Eddlemon and James Lammey

Tim and Cathy Dalfiume

Teri Hubbard and Henry Gordon

Betty Dupont and Sandy Howell

Jere Gerard and Meredith Nelson

Randi Herrera and Andrew Graw

Courtney Ruth Taylor and Marjorie Knight

EVENT

Bell Tower Gala

BELL TOWER GALA

Benefiting Christian Brothers University

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Matthew Wooten and Melissa Black

Terri and Nickey Shah

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hristian Brothers University (CBU) held its third annual Bell Tower Gala at the Hilton Memphis. This evening paid tribute to the history of Lasallian education in Memphis. As a charitable event, all proceeds were earmarked to support CBU’s academic programs and scholarships. The gala was like an alumni reunion as guests reconnected with old friends. In addition to CBU graduates, several Christian Brothers High School (CBHS) faculty were on hand to show their support including special assistant to the CBHS President, Brother Joel McGraw, CBHS President Brother Chris Englert, CBHS Vice President John Bordelon and CBHS faculty member Dustin Perry (’10). Others in the crowd included Trustee Emeritus Joyce Mollerup and her husband, Bob Buckman and Mayor A C Wharton and his wife, Ruby. Partygoers were treated to hors d’oeuvres of bacon wrapped dates, miniature Beef Wellington and shrimp cocktail while they gathered socially prior to a seated dinner. The Michael Brothers, led by CBU alumni Jordan and Aaron Michael, provided musical entertainment. For dinner, guests enjoyed a three-course meal consisting of a mixed greens salad, a double entrée featuring Parmesan spinach stuffed chicken with an Asiago cream sauce and a Moroccan corvina with Israeli couscous and smoked tomato relish and a trio of desserts including a raspberry trifle, chocolate cake and miniature fruit tartlets. During the gala, two individuals were recognized with the university’s highest alumni awards. Michael Pohlman (’79) was honored with CBU’s Distinguished Alumnus award. Analice Hosey Sowell (’02, ’05) was honored as the University’s Distinguished Young Alumna. The awards recognize a graduate of CBU who has achieved a notable level of success in life, made significant contributions to his or her profession, supported the efforts of CBU and contributed to society through public service or church activities. Pohlman, CEO and president of the Pickering Firm, is an engineering and architecture company in Memphis. Sowell is the Chair of the science department at Memphis University School, where she teaches honors chemistry and was recently voted the recipient of the John M. Nail Outstanding Teaching Award by the members of the graduating class. The Most Reverend J. Terry Steib, Bishop of Memphis, was awarded the Maurelian Medal, which is one of the university’s highest honors. Named for the founding president of the University, Brother Maurelian Sheel (1842-1920), the award is given in recognition of an individual’s significant contributions through service to the good of the university or the community. Since its establishment in 1984, the Maurelian Medal has been awarded to only 17 individuals. CBU President Dr. John Smarrelli Jr. addressed the crowd, saying, “The Bell Tower Gala was truly an extraordinary evening. Not only did we celebrate the outstanding achievements of our two distinguished alumni and the exemplary service of Bishop Steib, but we also raised significant dollars to support current and future students. These dollars allow us to provide merit scholarships and needbased financial aid to 96% of our students, making an excellent CBU experience accessible to young people who might not otherwise be able to receive a private university education. Since 80% of CBU graduates choose to stay and work in Memphis, those dollars are also an investment in the future prosperity of the city we are so proud to call home.” See all the party photos at Story by Emily Adams Keplinger rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Photos by Don Perry

Dr. John and Eloise Smarrelli

Jordan and Hayley Isaac

David and Christina Hanson

Brothers Joel McGraw and Chris Englert

Burton Bridges and Candice Briggie

Joe Birch with Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton and Robin Birch

Segio and Dawn Vergara

EVENT BELL TOWER GALA Sarah Golding and Ray Karasek

Emily Holmes and Paul Haught

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Tim and Julia Finneli with Anna Lee and Andy Gaia

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Raegan Cook, Dustin Perry and Brother Joel Baumeyer

Kalli and Matt Harrell

Susan and Steve Vescovo

EVENT BELL TOWER GALA

Donna and Dave Nelson

Mike and Catherine Pohlman

Lynn and Jim Isaacs

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Mitch and Kelly Jo Graves

Maria and Brad Lensing

John Huffman and Anna Olberding

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Breeana Nikaido and Duy Nguyen

Emily McEvoy, Father William Parham and Jeff McEvoy

Meagan Michael and EveAnne Sellari

Cleo Dortch and Christiane Porter

Crista Allen, Bishop Terry Steib and Mike Allen

AFTER HOURS

After Hours A photo collage of the latest business happenings

Crye Leike East Christmas Office Party

Sissyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Log Cabin Fine Jewelry An Evening of Holiday Cheer

Donna McManus and Grace Leatherman Jones

Steve Brown and Harold Crye

Jim Hines and Lamar McCubbin

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20twelve Holiday Open House

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Ben Fant, Holly Whitfield and Jason Prater

Jim Pascover and Marsha Robertson

Kenneth Robinson and Jerry Bailey

Jeanne Willbourn, Margaret Ledbetter, Chantal Johnson and Susan Arney

Joy and Tom Kimbrough

Jeff Lantz and Maxim Lamarre

7 Sketches

61 68

64 Stab of pain

66 Smell

68 Foolish

69 Land unit

8 Member of an Arizona Indian tribe

9 Won ton companion (2 wds.) 10 Body of water

11 Computer code for characters 12 Nautical poles

13 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. __ 21 YinĘźs partner

23 Talk incessantly 26 Remain 28 Homey 29 Upon

30 Drop bombs on

31 What Celestial Seasonings makes 35 Delivery service

56 Herd

57 Baths

59 Eden dweller 61 Swing

62 Otherwise 63 Back

65 Jewel

67 Latin for King

i t â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s j a zz! 72 Glance over

cl a ssy

36 Ham it up 38 Louver

39 Pineapple brand

For underwriting information, call 901-678-2560 Visit us online at wumr wumr.memphis.edu .memphis.edu

Solution:

71 Popular condiment

H Y D E

70 Natural enclosure

S P A R S

49 Korean auto maker

54 Canine

58 Prevaricator

48 Loose gown worn at mass 51 Firmer

60 Staggerer

46 Chicken brand

6 Pitches

55 ___ Matisse

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43 Revolutions per minute

45 Monetary unit of Mexico

57 That girl

44 Clod

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56 Condemn

41 All right

5 Mounts (2 wds.)

34 Porridge

37 Meat inspection org.

4 Subtlety

54 Hit

O N C E

3 Lazy

53 Laughing dogs

D U E T

33 Second day of the wk.

2 __ upon a time

A B B R

32 RN assistant

D O L E

29 Aerial

52 Lubricate

S A E S A C I S I N U S G L A T

44 47

27 Desert pond

43 46

25 Winter outer wear

50 Not well

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24 Wrath

47 Dent

T A R R Y

22 Stringy

1 Performing couple

32 34

20 Small

DOWN

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19 University (abbr.)

46 Pudding flavor

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42 Link

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74 Organic compound

40 Condense (abbr.)

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18 Made melody

17 Acclaim

16 Spot

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14 Excessive

D R O V E

15 Medicine

A D A M

10 Window part

I N G D U E L A T E N S Y C O A T E N N E G A Y S O T K I A E L P L I O C A

6 Wood cutting tool

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Edited by Ruth Cassin

H E N R I

73 Charge card

W H A C K

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RSVP Crossword

RSV PHILLIPPI

By Dennis Phillippi

fun. In other words, the nerds. Because I was a kid who read books for fun, I was often accused of ruining my own eyes by “always having his nose buried in a book.” It turns out I was just the last in a family of Mr. Magoos, destined to follow glasses wherever we go. Understand, we’re talking about the seventies here, a time when nothing in fashion, from pants to haircuts, was well thought out, and glasses were included. My glasses, due to the fact that when my eyes went bad, they did it with enthusiasm, were huge glass glasses. There were

You know us. You’ve seen us. You’ve pitied us. We are legion. The irritated middleaged man digging in his jacket pocket with one hand while fumbling off a pair of glasses with the other. no plastic lenses at that time that could compensate for my new state of vision. These weighty binoculars were constantly having to be pushed back up to the bridge of my nose. A hot day meant sweat making them ever more precarious. A rainy day meant looking at life through a misty vista. In spite of this problem, I still chose a life in show business. From a very early age, I was performing in plays, during which my fellow actors were blobs of color. There were few roles that called for seventies style glasses. Frankly, there were very few justifications of any kind for seventies style glasses. By the time I was in high school, I was doing stand-up comedy, also without wearing my embarrassing specs, rendering the audience all but indecipherable. It made the whole “Hi, where are you from? What do you do for a liv-

ing?” part of stand-up a nightly adventure. I met my wife after a stand-up show, and only found out much later that her friend and she had seen me playing a video game before the show, wearing glasses, and decided that I looked like a fly. That night, as always, I managed to get through my set without being able to see, and, afterwards, met the love of my life. More on that next month in this space. Since I found the glasses so depressing to wear, and felt they made a less than favorable impression, a fact borne out later by her relating her first impression, I didn’t wear them for the balance of our first night. The point is, I spent that evening getting to know her without being able to really see her unless she was within a foot or so. Luckily for me, she was game for being within a foot or so. A few years later, both of us got laser surgery, and, for the first time since about the eighth grade, we could both see. It was super nifty. It still is. Before the surgery the two of us would have to pick up an alarm clock and hold it to our face to tell the time. After the surgery we could read the closed captioning on a baseball game unaided. For the first time people could think of me as a nerd for other reasons. Eventually, we needed reading glasses, and I was okay with that. I felt like it lent me some unearned dignity. Recently, as predicted all those years ago when we got lasered, we have both started needing a weak prescription to see clearly at a distance. Just like that I’m in a new and even more bothersome second class. Old people. I see the way you young people look at me now. Okay, if I’m wearing the right glasses at the time, I see the way you look at me. I remind you, at best, of your father, and, at worst, your grandfather. What little cool I once had stored up drains away the second I get confused which pair of glasses I need to be wearing. No one thinks well of the guy who asks to be seated in the “well lit section” of a restaurant.

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here a many little indignities once we have passed the half century mark: the copies of the AARP magazine that arrive unbidden, the knowledge the I have known my doctor for longer than most of my friends, and now the lowest blow of all - I have become one of those old coots who has to carry not one, but two pairs of glasses. You know us. You’ve seen us. You’ve pitied us. We are legion. The irritated middle-aged man digging in his jacket pocket with one hand while fumbling off a pair of glasses with the other. Grimacing as our eyes adjust to using distance glasses to see the score of the ball game, while holding our reading glasses in case we get a text, or God forbid, have to try to decipher a menu in a dimly lit restaurant. Or the grumpy middle-aged woman trying to gamely laugh off the fact that she is wearing one pair of glasses while another is dangling from a lanyard around her neck. We are not a proud people. When I was a boy, I was the eagleeyed member of my family. It made me feel heroic to be the one who could make out road signs and read a map. At the time I felt sorry for my parents and siblings with their giant glasses. Then, along came puberty and unexpectedly, the need for glasses. Let’s set aside the possible connection between being a thirteen-year-old boy and having my eyes going south. Suddenly I was just another kid who couldn’t play baseball because of the enormous glass plates sliding down my prodigious nose. Sure, it came in handy as an excuse to not get elbowed in the face playing basketball, something I found less than interesting, but it also meant that I was forever lumped in with the Kids Who Wear Glasses. It’s an unappreciated second class. The kids who won’t be asked to play dodge ball. The kids who read books for

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THE EYES HAVE IT

RSVPAST

Wedding Bells

Photo by H&H Photo Service-Atlanta

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1959

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January 3, 1959, Miss Jean Carter of Atlanta, 1958 Maid of Cotton, became the bride of John T. Fisher II of Memphis. OofnPictured here at the altar of St. Philipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cathedral are: Robert McLean Crump of Memphis, groomsman; Robert E. Norcross Fairview Farms, Tyronza, Ark., James Donald Fisher, brother of the groom and groomsman; Oscar C. Carr Jr., best man; Thomas Scott Fisher, brother of the groom and groomsman; Mr. and Mrs. Fisher; William Tucker Oliver of West Memphis, cousin of the groom; Miss Dee Carter, sister of the bride and maid of honor; Mrs. Oscar C. Carr Jr. of Mascot Plantation, Clarksdale, Miss., sister of the groom and matron of honor; Mrs. Samuel Benham Jones Jr., (the former Betty Burleigh), bridesmaid; Miss Daisy Fisher, sister of the groom and bridesmaid and Nicholas M. Patton, groomsman. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KELLY FISHER AND SUZANNAH FISHER RAGEN 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.