June 2011
Big Wig Ball Stetsons & Stars Brooks Uncorked GreenShoe at the Lake “Hands of Hope” Auction Party Q&A with Ned Canty
CONTENTS
Contents June 201 1
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Pro golfer Shaun Micheel takes RSVP to the green to show us the finer points of his favorite sport.
RSVP Watch List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 These aren’t your average Father’s Day ties.
10 BIG WIG BALL Valerie Burton and Chelsea Chandler
Big Wig Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Wigs were required at the Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital’s charitable affair at Minglewood Hall.
38 “HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY Robert and Katie Massey
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 & 22 J U N E 2 0 11
This volunteer milliner’s work has a large audience at Playhouse on the Square. She’s always on the lookout for the next big performer or activity to bring to downtown. StreetSeens highlight Karen Ralston and Dawn Vinson.
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24, 32, 48, 49 & 50 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.
Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
4 RSVP
Q&A with the general director of Opera Memphis, Ned Canty.
20 STREETSEEN Karen Ralston
Brooks Uncorked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 The second event in this year’s “Memphis Wine & Food Series” had guests uncorking the vino to raise funding for the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.
“Hands of Hope” Auction Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
42 GREENSHOE AT THE LAKE Jana Culp and Marcus Ortiz
The Exchange Club Family Center was the beneficiary of a party at Minglewood Hall that called for attendees to “Raise Hope. Rock On.”
GreenShoe at the Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 “Green Up, Party Down” was the name of the game at the Shelby Farms Park and Greenline’s newest fund-raiser.
Stetsons & Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 The Alzheimer’s Association took up a Western theme for its benefit at the Agricenter’s Farmer’s Market.
34 BROOKS UNCORKED Megan Murdock and Stephanie Drouillard
RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 This Is All True Dennis Phillippi reminisces about the lame comedy show that subsequently led to him landing a wife.
Cover Photo Richard and Kristi Ransom at Big Wig Ball Photo by Don Perry
46 STETSONS & STARS Jessica Toliuszis and John Dawkins
Volume XVI
Number IX
May 201 1 PUBLISHER
Roy Haithcock EDITOR
Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ruth Cassin Kelly Cox Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR
Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nathan Berry Don Perry Steve Roberts SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Libby Huff J U N E 2 0 11
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Chris Pugh ACCOUNTING
Ruth Cassin
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RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact Roy Haithcock Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax (901) 276-7785 e-mail publisher@rsvpmagazine.com WEB
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From the Editor
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Photo by Steve Roberts
f you haven’t figured out by now that I’m a “theme” girl from reading my columns, let me explain. I like to group my editor’s column thoughts, which sometimes seem more like ramblings, into an underlying idea seen throughout the issue. Not being an organized person by nature, I feel that sticking to a theme brings about structure. I just wish I could apply this method to my everyday tasks outside of work. For this issue, which marks the first one of summer, the recurring idea I noticed throughout pertains to the term “revamp.” Revamp is already a word I like because it contains the name of my all-time favorite nail polish (Chanel’s Vamp), and it hints at a better version of whatever comes next. For the purpose of this column, revamp refers to giving something an update, or a fresh look. This month, fund-raisers received a revamped image, beginning with the change of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art’s annual wine series from The Art of Good Taste to the “Memphis Wine & Food Series.” The motivation behind the change was to bring a national focus to the event, and subsequently to the great art institution behind it. Another revamp came from Shelby Farms Park and Greenline, which opted for a more relaxed vibe and new setting to attract a more diverse crowd to its annual spring affair, now called GreenShoe at the Lake (formerly the GreenShoe Gala). According to our staff’s observations, both parties appeared to have a stellar turnout, which goes to show that the age-old adage “change is good” works. Check out page 34 for Brooks Uncorked and page 42 for GreenShoe at the Lake to see for yourself. I’m proud to say that the Memphis Grizzlies also overhauled their image with their monumental, “sit on the edge of your seat” journey to secure a spot in the NBA Playoffs. Though the team fell short of making it to the final round, the Grizz have won over even the most skeptical fans not only in Memphis, but nationwide. That’s big! So, you can only imagine the positive response we got after placing Grizzlies Coach Lionel Hollins and his wife, Angie, on our cover last month. In closing, I wish each of you a fantastic start to summer, and for those of you involved in Carnival Memphis, a fabulous month of merrymaking.
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Leah Fitzpatrick editor@rsvpmagazine.com
Pro Golfer/Host of the Shaun Micheel Make-A-Wish Golf Classic
Personal hero: My father. Your mantra: Never give up. Guilty pleasure: All desserts. Favorite author: Tom Clancy. Favorite album: Alive! by KISS. Stress outlet: Playing the guitar. Favorite Memphis musician: Saliva. Childhood ambition: To be a pilot like my father. Ideal vacation spot: St. Martin, French West Indies. One thing you can’t live without: My computer. Where you take out-of-town guests: Rendezvous. Movie you could watch over and over again: Fletch. Last book you’ve read: Flight to Heaven by Captain Dale Black. Your greatest achievement: Winning the 2003 PGA Championship. Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome: The death of my mother last October. First concert: Thomas Dolby (Remember “She Blinded Me With Science?”). First job: Worked at Ridgeway Country Club picking the range and putting up golf carts. One thing most people don’t know about you: I’m a headbanger. I love heavy metal music. Words or phrases you overuse: This is a family publication, so let’s just say that golf can be a frustrating game.
Photo by Steve Roberts
SIGNATURE MEMPHIS J U N E 2 0 11 RSVP
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EVENT
Big Wig Ball
BIG WIG BALL
A Hair -R aising Benefit
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Angela and Steven McCarter
Stephen and Kimberly Jessop
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nstead of raising the roof, attendees of the fourth annual Big Wig Ball elevated their hairstyles for the benefit of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. The invite called for cocktail cool or whatever fits your wig, and that’s just the dress code nearly 200 attendees embraced, as evidenced by the number of disguised identities at Minglewood Hall. “I so didn’t recognize you in that wig” was a common utterance heard throughout the night. Looking around the room, one saw a plethora of different dos: spiky Tina Turner hair, Willie Nelson braided pigtails, Axl Rose cornrows, fros, mohawks and lots of retro-mod inspired hairpieces for women. Some more creative styles came in the form of Captain Jack Sparrow’s signature dreadlocks and a spot-on Mad Hatter impersonation, complete with frizzy red hair and bushy red eyebrows. Richard Ransom, normally suited up as a News Channel 3 anchor, even got in on the fun by wearing a green and brown wig, star-shaped yellow glittery shades and silver chains around his neck— a fine look indeed at this party. The King and Queen of the Big Wig Ball Contest made a debut at the fund-raiser this year, and let’s just say, it was well received. During a break for the band Seeing Red, contestants made their way to the stage to see if they had what it took to be king or queen, which spurred on lots of outrageous dance moves from those serious about gaining the title. Felicia Moore of Radio Now and two members of the Big Wig Ball committee judged the entries, based on wigs and personality, and narrowed down the lineup to the top eight. Each of the remaining competitors then took envelopes around the room to try and get the crowd to pony up donations for Le Bonheur…and to win the contest. By the end, $1,200 had been raised, and Cary Bawcum was crowned the Big Wig Ball King, with Alison Powers as the Big Wig Ball Queen. The rest of the evening called for dancing, and to re-energize, guests enjoyed all-you-can drink beer and wine, nibbles from places such as Interstate Barbecue and Kooky Canuck and a selfserve frozen yogurt bar from YoLo. Organizers also encouraged the Big Wig crowd to remember that this was a “party with a purpose” and to text LB4Kids on their phones to make donations that will help ensure that Le Bonheur can continue its exceptional pediatric care for more than 130,000 children each year.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Jerry and Stephanie Cianciola
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
Lauren Ellis and Matt Robinson
Daphne and Cary Bawcum
Desireé and Jonathan Bawcum
Alison and Aaron Powers
Deanna May, Whitney Walter, Amy Langdon and Leia Hendrix
Michael and Latosha Dexter
EVENT BIG WIG BALL J U N E 2 0 11
Jiggy and Felicia Moore
April Wright and Nena Mongue
Sherra and Randy Russell
Misty Carden and Ryan Acton
Jane and Jeff Kinzer
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Lauren McGee and Katherine Burnett
Rebecca Rogers and Angela Phillips
Tina McDowell and Anna Mary Jordan
Chris and Amber Bawcum
Brad Argo and LeAnn Harris
Kevin and Fridae Hammons
STREETSEEN
Karen Ralston Hats Off
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s Playhouse on the Square’s volunteer milliner for the past eight years, Karen Ralston has become well versed in hat styles for various time periods, and ultimately about any play. A stickler for historical accuracy, she often references her library of books on historical costuming, however no amount of brushing up on the difference between hats from the 1930s1940s (for “The 39 Steps”) to those of ancient Egypt (think “Aida”), for example, could prepare Ralston for stage hat construction. That skill comes from experience…a lot of it. “I’ve made probably 1,000 hats for Playhouse,” she guesstimates. Decked out in a “cartwheel” style hat she once wore to Ascot, Ralston winds her way through Playhouse’s costume shop—past shelves that reach the ceiling, numerous boxes and heavy-laden stands—to point out many of her creations and chitchat with resident costume designer Rebecca Powell and other shop employees. This friendly banter with collaborators suits Ralston well, considering the close quarters she shares with the costume staff, several of whom are acting interns who will put her creations to the test of endurance and functionality. So, just what makes a hat suitable for the stage anyway? “For theater, hats always have to be bigger and have detail that is contrasting, otherwise they fade into the background,” she explains. Other factors taken into account include making sure the brim doesn’t hide an actor’s face or cast a shadow, not being too heavy and ensuring that the hat will stay on an actor’s head. Time management also remains a huge factor in the design process, especially for productions like “Ragtime,” which featured 47 hats. Of course, unusual challenges come with the territory. Ralston tells, “For ‘The Producers,’ I made showgirl headpieces that resembled a sausage with sauerkraut, three Volkswagens in a stack, a pretzel and a German shepherd on a pillow.” Oftentimes, Ralston, a thrift store devotee, brings in second-hand hats and deconstructs them, and she has even been known to turn wire baskets and candleholders into crowns. For men’s hats, she mainly tweaks existing ones, but if she’s building a hat from scratch, making the frame and wiring it alone can take up to five hours. Then, she has to sew fabric, cover the hat and trim it, not to mention any hand sewing involved, which takes longer. And forget making multiples of something because Ralston says that task spells boredom. Hats that don’t work out might end up as stage props, but Ralston mostly finds ways to make things work, with many of her hats rented out to other theaters after use by Playhouse On the Square or Circuit Playhouse. While she doesn’t sell any hats, Ralston’s theater friends are sold on her compulsion to create some of the finest head toppers seen on any stage. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
STREETSEEN
Dawn Vinson Animating the Downtown Lunch Hour
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here’s no way around it: Dawn Vinson has a cool job, especially this time of year. As director of marketing and special events for the Center City Commission (CCC), she plans the “Downtown Alive” series in Court Square each spring. For those of you who haven’t ventured to see some of the city’s most unique, informative and entertaining events, which are free and take place most Mondays through Fridays from 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., go now because June marks the last month before the series wraps its fourth season. “People go to cities all over the world and look for things going on in the streets, like performers, so we wanted a way to formalize that here,” Vinson says of the inspiration for the series. The key to the success of “Downtown Alive” has been its variety in programming. Hosting the series in the park-like setting of Court Square remains a big draw as well for school groups, downtown employees looking to head out of the office for lunch or for tourists wishing to catch a glimpse of what constitutes Memphis culture. Another kicker is that spectators can pop by for however long they choose, as Vinson and the series participants realize that people have busy schedules during the workweek. She explains, “The events are nice even if you can’t stay the whole time because you’re most likely guaranteed to experience something new.” An advocate of bike riding, Vinson regularly pedals the few blocks from her office on North Main to Court Square to help out with any items needed to make that day’s event run smoothly, and she also makes the rounds to tents set up by area merchants and restaurants, which are encouraged by the CCC to offer their products during the program to remind people of their downtown presence. After all, what could be better than shopping for flowers or an exotic piece of jewelry while taking advantage of a free yoga or zumba class, an outdoor fashion show, samplings from a talented new band or an interactive mystery theater experience—all during your lunch break? During June, there are 15 weekday happenings scheduled, so there are plenty of activities, from the Visible School showcase (June 1) and a New Ballet Ensemble performance (June 9) to a Church Health Center demo (June 15) and a National Ornamental Metal Museum copper cuff bracelet workshop (June 16). Since karaoke has proven popular with audiences, a Karaoke Smackdown! has been scheduled for June 10, with fans’ top three favorites taking home $50 each. People have already put in requests for a “Downtown Alive” fall series, which Vinson says is a definite possibility, so stay tuned for more opportunities to encounter what Vinson calls “Memphis’ hidden gems.” Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
Thank You From
South House Fine Jewelry
We sincerely appreciate your patronage over the past few years. As you are probably aware we closed our shop at 400 Grove Park Road in East Memphis on April 30, 2011. We plan to open at a new location in the near future. In the interim, if you need information or if we can be of service, please get in touch. Watch in future RSVPs for our Grand Opening announcement.
Marge Snipes, Owner
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ONSITE
Onsite
Friends for Life Donor Reception Taste of the Season River City Brewers Festival MIFA Reception Acorn Auction
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Richard Bodine, Dr. Rene Friemoth Lee and Josh Clark at Acorn Auction
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Eva and Dr. Marc Silberberg at Acorn Auction
Edward Cooper, Randy Richardson and Shawn Mathews at Friends for Life Donor Reception
ife was literally a cabaret at the Friends for Life Donor Reception, where the nonprofit’s benefactors Cabaret” at Theatre enjoyed a special preview of “C Memphis. Beforehand, guests mingled and sampled wine and appetizers in the lobby while picking up info about the Friends for Life’s Dining Out for Life, a fundraiser held later in the month that gave a portion of portions from participating area restaurants to help Bryan Powell, Elise McCarthy, Brett Aronson and Kristen Berry those affected by HIV/AIDS. at River City Brewers Festival Germantown Community Theatre’s annual Taste of the Season,” received great friend-raiser, “T acclaim from supporters, who were treated to a unique kind of wine tasting. Guests were given cards to rate wines from seven different stations that were manned by volunteers dressed as characters from the theatre’s 2011/2012 season. Once guests figured out the corresponding play titles, they entered their cards in a prize drawing while making their way into the theatre for preview performances of new shows. Ziparo’s Catering supplied the food, while drinks came courtesy of Southwestern Beverage Distributing. The Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association recognized both Margaret Craddock, the nonprofit’s retiring executive director, and Sally Jones Heinz, the incoming executive director, at a MIFA Reception inside the Brooks Museum of Art’s Brushmark Restaurant. Supporters, board members, staff and volunteers came out to pay tribute to these standout women. Souvenir mugs in hand, beer lovers converged at Handy Park on Beale for the second River City Wayne Wright and Sarah Brann Brewers Festival. Afternoon and evening sessions took at River City Brewers Festival place to accommodate a crowd eager to try 75 beers from the best local, regional, national and import breweries. As they sampled suds from the hometown team of Bluff City Brewers to the Lazy Magnolia Brewery out of Mississippi, guests listened to tunes by the Mulch Brothers and Ghost Town Blues Band. A portion of proceeds benefited the Mid-South Autism Society. Colorful kites and balloons appeared everywhere at the U of M Holiday Inn, as Bodine School proponents had outfitted the venue in preparation for Soaring to the school’s yearly Acorn Auction, themed “S New Heights.” In keeping with the theme and the cause, the décor also included life-size cutouts of Bodine students, which they artfully decorated with their names and interests. In addition to ticket sales, live and silent auction bids helped raise more than $80,000 so that the institution can help students with dyslexia maximize their academic success. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
Joey Valdez, Ivy DePew, Leslie Boone and Gina Fortner at Friends for Life Donor Reception
Margaret Craddock, Jeff Feibelman, Dot Gilberson and Sally Jones Heinz at MIFA Reception
Bonnie and Nick Kourvelas at Taste of the Season
Bill and Macie Houston at Taste of the Season
FR DAYS AT THE AVENUE MUSIC [ FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT [ MOVIES
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FRIDAY JUNE 3 Screen on the Green Outdoor Movie | 8:10 PM JUNE 10 ty Planet | 6 PM Live at The Avenue featuring Party JUNE 17 Screen on the Green een Outdoor Movie | 8:15 PM JUNE 24 Family Fun Night including Build-a-Bear Parade and Mr. Nick’s Balloon Tying Workshop | 6 PM
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THRU OCT 28
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NIGHT
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Vox Popular Q&A with Ned Canty
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RSVP: Who or what first sparked your love of opera?
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Canty: I got into opera purely for the money. When I say that, you have to understand that, at the time when I did my first opera, I was working in theater. I was working full time as an assistant director and understudying every male role in every play at the theater where I was working. I got $150 a week, so when I say that opera paid more than the job I had, it isn’t that it paid so much. I was assisting a director named Mark Lamos at the time in Connecticut, and he was someone who did theater and opera. We got along very well, and he sort of dragged me, kicking and screaming, to assist him on an opera at Glimmerglass Opera in New York. I let myself be talked into it, and I ended up loving it. RSVP: At what age did you see your first opera? Canty: I saw my first opera at 18 and didn’t like it at all. It wasn’t really until I took the Glimmerglass job at 26 that I saw my second opera, and that was the one that took. There are a lot of factors for that, but part of it was the intimacy, comedy and the translation of the titles (The first opera I saw I didn’t know what was going on.). Once titles became common, it changed everything and gave me an entry point into the art form. I saw that opera, “Don Pasquale,” at Glimmerglass, and it’s one of the operas we’re doing at Opera Memphis next year because it’s the one that converted me. RSVP: What are your other plans for converting people to the opera here? Canty: One of the big things we’re trying to do next year is the Opera Memphis Challenge. The idea is that for anyone who takes three people to the opera who have never been, we’re going to treat
Photos by Don Perry
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s the new general director of Opera Memphis, Ned Canty is ready to draw a new kind of audience to opera. Specifically, he’d like to attract a younger generation, one who grew up on MTV like he did and is used to watching concerts not knowing whether a person is actually singing or if it’s a backing track. In his interview with RSVP editor Leah Fitzpatrick at Opera Memphis, Canty constantly refers to the authenticity of opera that wins people over and says, “I think the more digital our lives become, the more important it becomes to have that kind of unique authentic experience—what you hear in opera is being created by the people and instruments on stage in front of you.” Not to leave out any age group, Canty adds that his main mission is to get as many people as possible to try opera and keep coming back for more, which he plans on doing by putting out the highest quality product he can.
you just like a donor. We’re going to recognize you on the program and give you a gift pack because really opera’s not the kind of art form that people wake up in the morning saying, “I think I’m going to go to an opera tonight.” It’s almost always an opera where someone invites you to go. I don’t know if this is Memphis specific, but the number of people on our board or in our audience who went to their first opera on a date is incredibly high. RSVP: What initially interested you about the general director role with Opera Memphis? Canty: I decided several years ago that as much as I love being a freelancer director, I wanted to do something that had more of a positive impact on one community. I realized that I was happiest at companies that I returned to over and over, like the Wolf Trapp Opera Company, which I worked at four years, and the Connecticut Opera, where I went for three years. There was just something wonderful about coming back and seeing the same members of the audience and working with the same people. You could sort of feel like you were really having an impact and doing something good for that particular community, so when I started thinking this through, I realized I would be happiest running an opera company. This was around six years ago. Around the same time, a friend of mine was starting the New York Television Festival, and it seemed like a wonderful opportunity to test out and make sure I would be happy running a company that showcased everyone else’s talents because I had always been somebody who was creating art. I ended up having six great years there. When I decided to start looking for a job with an opera company, I wanted to find a city that was big enough to have a lot
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going on with great music, theater, dance and museums. I also wanted a city small enough where I felt like I could know my peers, and Memphis is the definition of that city. Thirdly, I wanted a city that was on the upswing. RSVP: So far, what strengths have you noticed about Opera Memphis?
RSVP: What areas of Opera Memphis do you feel need improving, if any? Canty: I think most immediate is that we just need to do everything we can to expose more people to the art form. My personal mission is to try
My story has always been built on family. Like everyone, through the years I’ve experienced life’s ups and downs. But through it all, I’ve been fortunate to have the best support group possible: my family. And whether celebrating the joy of life, or coping with the grief of loss, my family is one blessing I’ve never taken for granted.
That’s why I am proud to serve as chair of the Baptist Memorial Health Care Community Advisory Board.
latest gift to our community: the Baptist Trinity Hospice House and the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief. I am excited that both of my families have come together to create the center, which provides a year-round place where families and individuals can find comfort and support when they need it most, all in a peaceful, natural setting.
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I get to see how the organization meets the needs of families everyday. And one example of this is the
27 Not everyone is blessed with a family to share all their joys and burdens throughout life. But that doesn’t mean their life story can’t still have a happy ending.
Chair, Baptist Memorial Health Care Community Advisory Board
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Canty: The dedication of the staff is pretty astounding. When Michael Ching left, we had about eight months where there was no general director at all, and it was really the staff and Charles Schaffler, our board chair, who not only kept things afloat, but improved things. They really kept everything humming along, so I think that’s a huge strength. I think there’s something nice about the history of the organization. One of the first things I said when I heard about the job was when you have a city that’s supported an opera company for 55 years, that’s a city that wants there to be an opera company. After the two shows I saw here, which were Michael’s, the singers commented to me about how fantastic the audience is because they’re so appreciative and attentive. When you’re up on that stage, and you can feel the audience with you, that makes you give as much as you have to give. I think we have a wonderful collaborator and artistic partner in the symphony. Any opera company lives or dies on the quality of the music, and the symphony is one of the most important parts of that. To have a symphony that’s so invigorated and vitalized makes what I’m doing that much easier. The Opera Memphis building is also a huge resource with a beautiful rehearsal room that’s world class.
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to break down as many of these myths about opera that I can to encourage people to come in and sample it. My line of thought is that most people who don’t like opera don’t know why they don’t like it. They think it’s something that it’s not, so I think the most pressing need is to try and find ways to encourage people to attend. Then there are some more business-related things. When I worked at the New York Television Festival, one of my main jobs was working with our corporate sponsors, and we were completely sponsor driven. Right now, our corporate support at Opera Memphis is at a historic low, and that’s something that needs to improve. You know, there are only 120 opera companies in America, and Memphis is one of the cities that can sustain an opera company. That says something to the outside world about the vibrancy of the city.
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RSVP: I heard you have a thing for comedies, so just wondering if you’re looking to incorporate those more into future seasons? Canty: As a director, comedies are really what I specialized in, and I remember last season people coming up to me after seeing “The Barber of Seville,” saying, “That was wonderful—no one died.” You know, I’m a fan of operas by Donizetti, especially “The Elixir of Love,” which is possibly my favorite opera because it’s a wonderful story with great characters and comedy and also has immense heart. I think the world right now is in one of those phases where it’s a little darker, and I think a comedy can relieve you of the sorrows of the world for two or three hours and kind of recharge your batteries to go out and continue your life. An area where I’m very fortunate is that I’m lucky to know some of the funniest singers today, and I’m really looking forward to introducing Memphis audiences to them. I also think comedies can be an easier point of entry sometimes for people who are new to the art form.
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RSVP: Did you have a hand in helping out with the upcoming sea30 son, “A Season for All?” Canty: I did all of the casting and all of the staffing. There was an artistic committee that was formed by the board when we didn’t have a general director, and they chose the first two shows. Then, there was a third show they proposed, and when I got here, we looked at some of the technical issues, the number one being that there was a bigger orchestra needed for that show than could fit in the pit. We ended up switching that show out for “Don Pasquale.” The job of a general director is to be able to stand behind every show and explain to anyone they meet exactly why they should come to see that show and why they’ll love it. The following season, I’ll choose the season itself, as well as the staffing and casting, with lots and lots of input. RSVP: Who are some artists audiences should pay attention to in
upcoming Opera Memphis performances? Canty: There are a number. In “Tosca,” there’s a singer named Lee Bisset. She’s a Scottish soprano and someone who exploded onto the scene in Europe. This is going to be her American debut, and it’s something I’m proud of because we were able to get her to debut in Memphis and not New York or San Diego. She’s going to be singing with Louis Otey, a singer with Memphis roots who has gone on to a fantastic career with I think close to 100 performances at the Met. Rounding out that cast is a tenor named Diego Torre. He again is someone who is just enjoying a meteoric rise…I think Opera Memphis historically has been very good at showcasing new talent and finding people right before they break. With “Die Fledermaus,” we’ve got a couple of old favorites, folks who have done a lot in Memphis like Caroline Worra and Ryan MacPherson, both of whom have Memphis roots. In addition to them, there will be a couple of singers who I will be bringing to Memphis for the first time: David Kravitz, an incredibly funny singer; Dominic Armstrong, who was just at New York City Opera; and Elizabeth Reiter, who will be singing the role of Adele and is probably the earliest in her career of any of them. Not to leave out some folks in our third show, “Don Pasquale,” there’s Monica Yunus, who is not only a fabulous singer and actress, but her father, Muhammad Yunus, is a Noble Peace Prize winner, and she’s the founder of Sing for Hope. There’s also a fellow named Stefano de Peppo, who is going to sing “Don Pasquale.” He grew up in the Children’s Chorus of Teatro alla Scala of Milan, which is one of the primary opera houses in the world. RSVP: If you could describe the opera experience to a newcomer in three words, what would they be? Canty: Authentic, transcendent and intense. Because opera combines so many art forms into one, when it works and everyone is firing on all cylinders, you can’t do better. Emotions when they’re said are one thing, but when they’re sung, they read something much deeper than words alone can do.
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Policeman’s Ball Memphis Recovery Centers Silent Auction Emissaries of Memphis Music Celebration Entrepreneur Awards Presentation Gibson Guitar Factory was not a crime scene on TtheheApril 2 this year, but instead a celebratory scene, as Memphis Police Foundation held its first Police-
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Jim Kelly with Debra and David Larkin at Policeman’s Ball
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32 Paige Lucchesi and Steele Belina at Policeman’s Ball
man’s Ball to benefit the city’s law enforcement. The foundation raises money to provide the police department with equipment and training not covered by the department’s budget, such as SkyCop Cameras, K-9 dogs and bulletproof vests. For this year’s fund-raiser, which was chaired by Carole West and Pat Kerr Tigrett, the organization honored outgoing Memphis Police Director Larry Godwin. For 40-plus years, Memphis Recovery Centers has offered help to thousands of patients with addiction treatment. The residential treatment facility’s newest program, the Transitions Learning Center, was the focus of the third annual MRC Silent Auction, held at the Memphis Botanic Garden. More than 35 items were up for grabs to support the center’s youth program, which helps seventh through twelfth grade students transition from a primary care program back into a classroom environment. Light hors d’oeuvres, coffee and soft drinks were served, and music was provided by flute and guitar pair Duo Vance. FM 100 deejay Ron Olson emceed the event. Mamie Coleman, of FOX Broadcasting Network, Melissa Scheffler, of Fox 13, 2011 Miss Tennessee Ashley Durham and Shelby County District Attorney Amy P. Weirich were just a few recognizable guests standing behind the microphone at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Their appearance, however, was to give recognition to a group of women from the Mid-South who have used their musical talents to make significant contributions to Memphis music, the Emissaries of Memphis Music, presented by the Memphis and Shelby County Music Commission. Barbara Blue, Dawn Hopkins, Amy LaVere, Valerie June, JoJo Jeffries, Dani McCulloch, Lil Rounds and Sheri Jones-Moffett were honorees at the third annual celebration. Lila provided music, and proceeds benefited the commission’s Memphis Musicians Healthcare Plan. Fitted in their formal best, Phillip G. Coop, Dr. Mary C. McDonald, Charles D. McVean and Robert A. Wilson were the guests of honor at the 19th annual Society of Entrepreneurs Dinner and Awards Banquet, as the newest inductees to the organization. The blacktie affair was held at the U of M Holiday Inn and began with light hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, until the crowd was ushered into the banquet room for a formal dinner and the induction ceremony, which also included a presentation of the Master Entrepreneur Award to Dr. Scott Morris, founder of the Church Health Center.
Mike and Marian Bruns with Leighanne Hart and Jack Soden at Entrepreneur Awards Presentation
Carroll Brunthaver with Julie and Bill Nicholson at Entrepreneur Awards Presentation
Lois and Raymon Brooks at Memphis Recovery Centers Silent Auction
Story and photos by Lesley Young Bill Lucchesi, Chuck Belina and Johnny Pitts at Policeman’s Ball
Dani McCulloch, Ashley Durham and Jae Henderson at Emissaries of Memphis Music Celebration
Salome and Tara West with Angela Horton at Emissaries of Memphis Music Celebration
Judy Goldberg and Ron Olson at Memphis Recovery Centers Silent Auction
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Be Seen! Attract an Affluent clientele to your business! Advertise in RSVP Magazine For information call 276-7787
SINCE 1995
Advertising in RSVP Magazine places your message before an active, affluent market of Mid-Southerners who desire the best in quality and service.
More Than 120,000 Readers Average Household Income. . . . . . . . . . . .$147,000 per year. 88.6% . . . . . . . . .Purchased a Product or Visited a Store due 58.16% have HH incomes greater than . . . $75,000 per year. to Advertising in RSVP. Female Readers . . . 59.2% Male Readers . . .40.8% 42.6% . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Traveled Abroad during the past year. Marital Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62.2% married 52.% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Eat out at least 3 times per week. Home Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81.3% 3 0 , 0 0 0 c o p i e s d e l i v e r e d m o n t h l y t h r o u gh o u t Education: Attended/Graduated College plus . . . . . . .83.0% the Aff luent Shopping Areas of Greater Memphis Have Post graduate degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21.6% From Harbor Town to Collierville.
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EVENT
Brooks Uncorked
BROOKS UNCORKED
hile the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art rebranded its Art of Good Taste series this spring as the “Memphis Wine & Food Series,” the premise remained the same, which meant bringing in the world’s best vintners and wine collectors under one roof for charity. The second event of the series, Brooks Uncorked, took place at the museum and raised contributions for the institution’s educational programs, traveling exhibitions and constantly growing permanent collection. This go-around, organizers selected a featured vintner from the U.S., specifically from Silver Oak Cellars, with operations in California’s famed Napa Valley and Sonoma County wine regions. The change in origin must have resonated with benefactors because the fund-raiser sold out with a crowd of more than 500 people. Thank goodness some 50 other wines, which came from all around the globe, were in ready supply for taste tests! Some of the offerings included Cornerstone Stepping Stone Cabernet, Vietti Moscato D’Asti, Highflyer Viognier, LaMarca Prosecco, La Vieille Ferme Rose, Four Vines Naked Chardonnay and Sensual Torrontes. VIP Room wines ran the gamut from Priest Ranch Sauvignon Blanc to Tallulah Bald Mountain Syrah. Luckily, appetizers, supplied by area restaurants, could be found at every turn for those who needed a break from imbibing. Cortona, a new Cooper-Young Italian eatery, arrived on the scene serving white bean dip with pita chips, while other Italian fare came in the way of balsamic macerated strawberries with fresh sweet cream from Spindini and prosciutto crostini with lemon fennel slaw from Ronnie Grisanti’s. Memphis Pizza Café’s pizza selection was also a much-enjoyed offering amongst several others. Back again to get revelers on the dance floor was none other than DJ Raiford of Paula and Raiford’s Disco. Dressed to impress in an all-white getup, Raiford spun dance favorites from Prince and Michael Jackson to the Village People and KC and the Sunshine Band. And, of course, Raiford brought out the fog machines to accentuate the party vibe. Just to think, other parties in the series were still to come with the Brooks Patrons Dinner and Grand Auction taking place a few weeks later, which only furthered the revamped series’ success. Andria Lisle, the public relations and public programs manager for the Brooks, enthused, “We have met and exceeded the highest goals we’ve ever set for the Brooks wine events.” That calls for a toast.
A Charitable Wine Affair
W
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Cortney Viglietti and Laura Krug
Pamela Hauber and Steve West
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See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Julie Kleinhenz and Clinton Jacob
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Nathan Berry
Jeff Wagner and Ginger Hauser
John and Shally Pender
Judge Jayne Chandler and Daryl Leven
Jim and Judy Baker
Grayson and Allison Doherty with Ashlea and Sean Montesi
Candace Woods and Adam Heitzman
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EVENT BROOKS UNCORKED
Mark and Lisa Putnam
Tiffany Brimhall and Joanna Foster
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EVENT BROOKS UNCORKED Ryan Acton, Tresa Whitehorn, Marcus Grandberry and Melinda Ray
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“HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY
EVENT
“Hands of Hope” Auction Party “Raise Hope. Rock On.”
M Kathie and Dan Finnen
Rob and Jan Sawyer
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ore than 400 guests of the “Hands of Hope” Auction Party rocked their finest cocktail attire for the benefit of the Exchange Club Family Center. Ladies and gents raised their glasses in celebration of the tenth anniversary of “Hands of Hope,” which took place this year at Midtown’s concert hotspot Minglewood Hall, a fitting venue considering the “Raise Hope. Rock On.” theme. Special recognition also went to Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton, who have served as honorary co-chairs of this event for a decade. Mayor Wharton admitted, “I was supposed to be out of the country tonight, but I would rather be here.” Hundreds more attendees showed their support of the work the Exchange Club does to combat child abuse and domestic violence by making generous live and silent auction bids. Staffers had worked hard to accrue a vast array of auction selections, including wine packages, weekend getaways to Scottsdale, Asheville and Salt Lake City, a Jack Kenner pet photography session, a Missoni pillow and blanket from Oak Hall and gift cards to popular restaurants like Swanky’s, Jim’s Place and Café 1912, and that is merely a sampling of the silent auction. When the time came for the live auction, Jeff Morris took center stage and auctioned off a six-night stay at a resort in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, a signed guitar by Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, a chance to step inside the ropes and be an honorary observer at the FedEx St. Jude Classic Golf Tournament and four viewing passes to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, to name a few. Emcee Kym Clark of WMC-TV 5 urged guests, “Bid high and bid often.” When not raising their paddles, patrons partook in delicious fare from gourmet food stations courtesy of Gold Strike Casino and Resort and danced to current hits performed by Party Planet. Keeping with tradition, face painting was back again, with partygoers lining up to have hand-painted or temporary tattoos applied by the Parties with Pizazz team of Stephanie Pincus, Tyler Taylor, Kaylan Jones and Tracy Cole. Popular ink choices were Celtic symbols, dragons, spiders, butterflies and the Elvis-related “TCB” acronym with a lightning bolt going through it. Festivities concluded with guests sampling red velvet, dark cherry almond and grasshopper cupcakes, part of an over-the-top cupcake tower by A Bite of Bliss Bakery, and savoring coffee with Bailey’s from Café Las Flores, also a donor of chocolate covered espresso beans used as party favors. As lyrics from “Cruisin’” lingered throughout the room, it truly felt like the start of a rockin’ summer. See all the party photos at Story by Leah Fitzpatrick rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Photos by Nathan Berry
Brooke and Martin Shannon
Tilea and Chad Terry
Jason Henderson and Laura Houston
Kym Clark and Patrick Akers
Ashley and Kevin Demsky
Madelyn Gray, Barbara King and Karen Ratcliff
Floyd and Monica Clifton
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EVENT
SK IN & LASER BOU TIQU E
“HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY
E A S T M E M PH I S A E S T H E T I C S
Bryan and Rachel Baddorf
Emilio and Tatiana Oramas
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Beauty is our Business
Annie Henderson, Lisa Webb and Regina Walls RSVP
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WRCS The First and Last Name in Quality Services Provision WR Community Services provides Homemaker, In-Home Respite, Personal Care Attendant and Assistance Services.
Providing Quality Care for the Elderly and Disabled throughout Tennessee. The WR Community Service family would once again like to congratulate our own April Richardson for being a part of RSVP's 25 Women With Drive feature last month, you make us PROUD!
Grace Fong and James Burns
Brian and Kayla Earwood
WR Community Services LLC. 2600 Poplar Avenue, Suite #405, Memphis, TN 38112 Founded in 2007 Email: quality@wrcommunity.com Office: 901-325-7997 Fax: 901-325-7998 or 877-322-7998
Karen and Kirk Johnston with Rinnie Wood
EVENT Ashley and Preston Frazer
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Paige Carter and David Patterson
“HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY
Mia Henley, Margaret Ledbetter and Liz McLarty
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Kim Cribb, Kim Weiss and Molly Polatty
Martha and Scott Murphy
Margaret Wilson and Becky Morris
EVENT GREENSHOE AT THE LAKE
helby Farms Park and Greenline revamped its annual Earth Day kick-off festivities this year as GreenShoe at the Lake. First Tennessee Bank presented this celebration, a casual alternative to the GreenShoe Gala held in years past. Although guests forwent more formal attire this year, they were very much in the spirit of Earth Day and chose green and green-accented dress. The event still focused on the park’s beautiful vista, which is something guests enjoyed viewing from an enormous tent filled with thousands of white lights that had been erected at the water’s edge. Attendees entered the tent through a beautifully crafted grapevine arbor and were treated to the sight of the themed green shoe table, a moss covered green high heel slipper flanked by dusty pink roses. Inside, the theme continued with white lounge furniture and pub tables and chairs, all lit up by giant lime green and white Japanese lanterns. An outdoor seating and bar area also featured comfortable sofas and chairs with brightly draped green tables decorated with tall glass vases and clear votives. One of the many contributing sponsors, Whole Foods, provided two large displays of fruit, cheese, veggies with crostini, crackers and chips, which were bedecked in simple greenery. No sit down dinner for this crowd! Instead, a number of other area eateries had tables set up around the tent’s perimeter. These included Fratelli’s Fine Catering, Rendezvous, RP Tracks, Miss Cordelia’s, Interim and the newly reopened Cheffie’s Cafe, to name just a few. Certainly, no one went home hungry! An auction of unique items had bidders in some fierce competition for outings such as a private pizza party for 30 at the Woodland Discovery Playground at the park, a catered day cruise on the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway for 12 by the Aerobic Cruiser Hybrid Cycles and an exclusive evening at the park for a four-course wine dinner for 12 prepared by three celebrity chefs. Joseph’s and Oak Hall also donated merchandise. Guests were able to further help out by giving to a variety of the donors’ choices at two “Angel Trees” set up on either end of the tent. After bidding, guests cut loose to the Andy Childs Band, sponsored by the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau. Andre Gibson, Janie and Michael Lightman, Helen and Greg Maxted and Sheila and Jim Wilson served as event chairs. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell and his wife, Pat, along with Kay and Charlie McVean, served as honorary chairs. An amazing group of Shelby Farms and Greenline supporters once again showed their generosity in helping to ensure that this treasure will be around for many years to come.
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GreenShoe at the Lake “Green Up, Party Down”
S Lynn and Lisa Shaw
John and Jana Pettey
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Sheila Wilson and Laura Adams
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by Nathan Berry
Stephanie Bennett and Michael Loggia
Gretchen Gassner Turley and Barry Yoakum
Jocelyn and Oscar Atkinson
Barbara and Pitt Hyde
Anderson Humphreys, Janet Wellons, Wight Boggs and Gino Bauwens
Darryl and Laurita Jackson
EVENT Jessica and Mike Tinsley
Kevin and Judy Spiegel
GREENSHOE AT THE LAKE
SINCE 1995
Advertising in RSVP Magazine places your message before an active, affluent market of Mid-Southerners who desire the best in quality and service.
More Than 120,000 Readers Average Household Income. . . . . . . . . . .$147,000 per year. 58.16% have HH incomes greater than . $75,000 per year. Female Readers . . . 59.2% Male Readers . . 40.8% Marital Status . . . . . . . . . 62.2% married Home Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81.3% Education: Attended/Graduated College plus . . . . . .83.0% Have Post graduate degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21.6% 88.6% . . . . Purchased a Product or Visited a Store due to Advertising in RSVP. 42.6% . . . .Traveled Abroad during the past year. 52.% . . . .Eat out at least 3 times per week. 30,000 copies delivered monthly throughout
For Information on How to put RSVP to Work for You Call 276-7787 Valerie Hawkes, Heather Ries and Chelsea Bugg
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the Affluent Shopping Areas of Greater Memphis From Harbor Town to Collierville.
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Diane Jalfon and Daniel Weickenand
Photo© Junichi
Rorie Trammel and Donald O’Conner
JUNE 24-25, 2011 PURCHASE TICKETS AT THE ORPHEUM BOX OFFICE, THE BOOKSELLERS AT LAURELWOOD,
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EVENT GREENSHOE AT THE LAKE
Anne Piper and Dianne Papasan
Allison Ertz and Tah Baker
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Allison and Nate Young
Valerie and Jeff Morris
José and Elena Velazquez
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Alexandria Phillips and Robin Young
André and Monica Wharton
Mauricio and Yancy Calvo
Michelle Fiore and Mike McNeer
Vickie and Bill Carwell
Lori Spicer and Eric Robertson
ALL TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
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INDIVIDUAL SHOW TICKETS ARE $44 (PLUS HANDLING FEES). TO PURCHASE TICKETS, VISIT TICKETMASTER.COM. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL OUR BOX OFFICE AT 901.576.4107.
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EVENT
Stetsons & Stars
STETSONS & STARS
“Cowboy Up for Alzheimer’s”
S
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Angela Petty and Landon Himelright
Shawn and Lana Danko
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everal hundred guests donned their best “bibs and tuckers” and packed the Agricenter’s Farmer’s Market to help support the Alzheimer’s Association at the fourth annual Stetsons & Stars. The venue could not have been more appropriate than the renovated old red barn, where lovely cowgirls bearing trays of 4 Roses shooters greeted guests. In the Cadillac Corral, the evening began with music by DJ Bobby Smith. Folks were challenged to take a shot at riding a mechanical bull, and there was definitely no shortage of takers! The “John Wayne” and “Calamity Jane” Silent Auctions featured an abundance of goodies from local merchants such as Rendezvous, the Orpheum Theatre, the Memphis Redbirds, Oak Hall, Bayou Bar and Grill and Playhouse on the Square. There were also Memphis in May Beale Street Music Fest tickets, a Woman’s Exchange gift basket and a selection of cookbooks from Wimmer Press. Perhaps the most bid upon items were the hand crafted horseshoe sculptures made by John Bowden and donated through the generosity of several association benefactors. Small versions of the sculptures also served as centerpieces for tables draped with black “cowhide” and cowboy boot prints, which featured flickering votives and souvenir boot-shaped glassware. A Moveable Feast and Hog Wild Catering provided the Chuck Wagon buffet consisting of barbecue sliders, bleu cheesestuffed bacon-wrapped dates, black bean and corn relish with tortilla chips, a fruit assortment, grilled chicken kabobs, smoked catfish quesadillas, zucchini bites, a baked potato bar, barbecue sundaes and pick-up desserts. Popular radio personalities Duane and Abby from KIX 106, a presenting sponsor along with Methodist University Hospital and Emergency Mobile Health Care, soon appeared in the Double A Dance Hall and Saloon for a special welcome to attendees. Laura Hicks, 2011 event chair, also addressed the crowd with her heartfelt appreciation for all the backing the community has demonstrated for the association. Everyone then got revved up to party country style by the performance of the Cowboy Up/Coyote Ugly Girls. When Nashville’s the Mulch Brothers took the stage with their high-energy brand of Southern rock and country, the dance floor became a romping and stomping hoe down. All in all, the evening proved a great success for a most worthy cause. Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5 million people in the United States today, with a diagnosis of the condition every 69 seconds. To further the cause, the association will hold its Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 12 at AutoZone Park. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Greg Farm and Shannon Luttrell-Velloff
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by Nathan Berry LeeAnna and Dr. James Hungerford
Andre Fowlkes and Marie Pizano
Diane and Randall Moore
Laura and Darron Hicks
Eric and Dawn Nelsen with Lisa and Steve Doss
Kix 106’s Duane and Abby
EVENT STETSONS & STARS Joey Reinagel and Holly Cassin with Christina and Steve Anderson
Louis and Trish Sabater
Andrew McKelroy and Shannon Ewing
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Johnny and Laura Harper with Tera and Alan Arstikaitis
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Rosemary Southwell and Lamora Hiss
Terri King, Carol Carlson and Janice Wright
Trey Liebenrood and Christina Vranich
Matthew Dower and Lisa Bobal
Adam Arthur, Arie Szatkowski and Rob Brooks
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Wild World of Wine and Beer ARTini Party Giving Tree Gala Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Founders’ Day ildlife met nightlife at the Wild World of Wine and Beer, benefiting the Memphis Zoo’s Conservation W Action Network. Sold out days in advance, this event
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Maggie Murff, Field Norris and Emily Halpern at ARTini Party
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attracted 650 people to Teton Trek after dark. Though the bears were in bed, animal ambassadors on hand to greet the guests included Calvin the skunk and Val the New World python. A silent auction featured items such as behind-the-scenes zoo tours and paintings produced by sea lions, elephants, Ya Ya the Panda and others who reside there. With more than 30 wines from around the world plus a selection of beers provided by Southwestern Beverage Distributing, a spread of tasty Nicole Kincy, Angela French, Nicole Webb and Carlyn Boyer tidbits from Lancer Catering and King Cotton and the at Wild World of Wine and Beer Kathryn Stallins Band rockin’ the Lodge, there was plenty of reason for party animals to howl at the moon. Young at Art’s annual ARTini Party brought the Roaring Twenties to the Dixon Gallery and Gardens for this free-for-YAA-members mixer. Fortunately for today’s flappers and fedora-flaunting fellas, there is no prohibition against enjoying a cocktail—the ARTini bar offered a menu of six martini variations. Entertainer Alston Meeks, backed by an eight-piece orchestra, made this a Jazz Age evening indeed. The Giving Tree Gala, named for the children’s classic by Shel Silverstein, was held quite fittingly at the Memphis Botanic Garden to benefit Shelby County Books from Birth. Part of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Books From Birth provides a free, age-appropriate book every month to local children registered in the program. Formerly called Tables of Content, the event this year changed from a seated dinner to a lively cocktails-and-dancing format catered by A Moveable Feast, with music by Susan Marshall and the All-Star Rhonda Katzman, Katie Land and Becky Ballard Band. Event chair Jenny Vergos praised those who at Wild World of Wine and Beer worked to make the evening a success, saying, “We are blessed with a rock star group of volunteers who are devoted to sharing the gift of reading with others.” Parisian-style street vendors and entertainers invaded Theatre Memphis recently for the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Founders’ Day celebration, An American in Paris.” Linda Mathis and themed “A Tammy Bartley chaired the occasion that included mimes (dutifully played by auxiliary members’ husbands), works of art and cards by “starving artist” Steve Nelson and Gershwin show tunes by vocalist Debbie Litch and pianist Gary Beard. Tim Simpson of WREG-TV 5 and Bucky Walters also teamed up for a musical performance. The day ended with the auxiliary recognizing the group’s founders and contributing life members, as well as Shirley Henry, the 2011 Sallie Award recipient. Story and photos by Kelly Cox and Leah Fitzpatrick Linda Mathis and Tammy Bartley at Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Founders’ Day
Jenny and Nick Vergos at Giving Tree Gala
Jocelyn Jordan, Grace Burgess and Ivy DePew at Giving Tree Gala
Denardo Crawford, Becky Dickey and Darby Dakarai at Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Founders’ Day
Sarah Payton, Linda Miller and Sherrye Willis at Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Founders’ Day
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Ptah Black Tie Tennis Shoe Madonna Circle Gala Anna’s Closet Flavors of Memphis he Grand Krewe of Ptah hosted this year’s Carnival Memphis Black Tie and Tennis Shoe event. For the Tbest-decorated tennis shoe contest, the sneakers ranged
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Jeremy and Wesley Dembinski at Anna’s Closet
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Dale and Kathy Menkel at Anna’s Closet
from high heel lace-ups and feather and glitter-adorned entries to battery-operated flashing ones. Then, members from each krewe performed skits including themes from “Mama Mia” and the Beach Boys. The band 240 Loop had dancers on their feet until midnight, with the lead singers, Jamie and Elizabeth Baker, being some of Ptah’s newest members. Nearly 500 people packed the ballroom at Hilton Memphis for the Madonna Circle 75th Mary Ann Chism, Pat Young and Jennifer Reginelli Anniversary Charity Gala. Guests noshed on seared at Madonna Circle Gala tuna from Sharky’s Gulf Grill and shrimp and grits provided by Club Windward as they sipped cocktails and perused hundreds of silent auction items. After a dinner of pan-seared chicken with garlic cream sauce, London broil with mushrooms and demi glace and Boursin-infused mashed potatoes, as well as lemon rustica or tiramisu cake, Ron Childers of WMC-TV 5 conducted a live auction. Any partygoers who still had a sweet tooth were served a slice of the triple-tiered blue and white anniversary cake prepared by Chef Mark Simpson of L’Ecole Culinaire. By night’s end, the gala had netted more than $84,500, with $50,000 going to the Page Robbins Adult Day Care Center and the rest to other grant applicants as decided by Madonna Circle’s finance committee. What seemed old dresses to some were new to others at the fifth annual Anna’s Closet, a second-hand dress sale to benefit young women in the community Frances Crenshaw, Stella and Bob Crone and Rosa Smith through the Emmanuel Center. St. Agnes Academy at Madonna Circle Gala hosted the affair at its Veritas Research Center, where all dresses were sold for a $10 donation. The event is 49 named in honor of the late Anna Menkel, a St. Agnes student who loaned her formal dress to a younger student in need of a dress at the time. Flavors of Memphis, presented by the American Liver Foundation, registers on the social calendar as one of the most lavish foodie events around. Not only are guests treated to a five-course meal with complementing wines, but all dishes are prepared tableside by chefs from top restaurants. Each restaurant tries to outdo the next with exquisite flowers and interesting menu pairings, as they compete for culinary awards. Best in Show, The esteemed honors went to Grove Grill-B Automatic Slim’s-B Best Table Setting and Owen Brennan’s-B Best Menu. Satiated, guests also listened to a heartfelt speech from Amy Pollan about her husband’s battle with liver disease and why it’s important to try and combat a disease that affects 30 million Americans.
Tina Sandoval and Adam Gonzales at Flavors of Memphis
Benji and Amy Pollan at Flavors of Memphis
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick and Suzanne Thompson Photos by Leah Fitzpatrick, Chris Pugh and Suzanne Thompson
Barbara Parham, Karen Viotti and Winn Stephenson at Flavors of Memphis
Ptah Queen Sharon Fewell and Lisa Felts at Ptah Black Tie Tennis Shoe
Anita Howald, Sarah Trouy, Ptah King John Sill and Ann Sill at Ptah Black Tie Tennis Shoe
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Club LB Josephine Circle Fashion Show Memphis Heat Premiere Dishes for Wishes he Le Bonheur Club opted for a fresh fund-raiser conTChcept called Club LB. Club members and Le Bonheur ildren’s Hospital supporters embraced the nightlife
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Kim and Steve Hale at Dishes for Wishes
Felicia Willett and Lauren Derrick at Dishes for Wishes
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Kaye Hearon, Gwen Smith and Pat McCaleb at Josephine Circle Fashion Show
Eva Lynn Bishop, Judge Ann Pugh and Melissa Thompson at Josephine Circle Fashion Show
scene at Central Station, which exuded a hip vibe thanks to trendy floral arrangements with hot pink feathers, a giant screen showing today’s hot music videos and tunes by Mark Anderson’s Party Train. Cochairs Laurie Benton, Carmen Bond and Stephanie Upshaw oversaw the fund-raiser, but many members chipped in to make the event debut one to remember and also one that raised funds for Le Bonheur’s Child Life Endowment Fund, which provides art and music therapy as well as recreational activities for patients and families. Off To the Races!” at the Guests were “O Josephine Circle Fashion Show at Hilton Memphis. Many attendees came outfitted in Kentucky Derby-worthy hats, however the models were the ones who stole the show as they posed beside a giant horse statue and then strutted down a lengthy runway in breathtaking outfits courtesy of Laurelwood Shopping Center. Doyle Childress emceed the show, and between dress changes, soloist Kathryn Stallins, accompanied by Cheryl Maccarino on keys and Todd Few on the trumpet, entertained. During the luncheon, Megan Blackburn, Miranda Riley and Kelly Whiteaker were announced as the organization’s scholarship recipients for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Memphis Heat: The True Story of Memphis Wrasslin’, a documentary about the history of wrestling in Memphis, premiered to sold-out crowds at the Malco Paradiso. Stars such as Jimmy Hart, Dave Brown, referee Jerry Calhoun, Buddy Wayne, Jerry Jarrett and Len Rossi were in attendance, as well as executive producers Shermon Willmott and Ron Hall, producer Billie Worley and director Chad Schaffler. The day of the premiere was also declared National Sputnik Monroe Day by Memphis Mayor A C Wharton and Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell. Sunday night is usually a time to stay in, but that wasn’t the case for those who entered Felicia Suzanne’s for the sixth annual Dishes for Wishes. Presented by the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of the MidSouth, the charitable gathering offered guests bite-size fare from 12 restaurants, including short rib grilled cheeses from Felicia Suzanne’s, duck fried rice from South of Beale and smoked salmon wonton crisps by Majestic Grille. FM 100’s Ron Olson lent a helping hand as a guest server, and 94.1 KQK’s Steve Conley and Karen Perrin reprised the emcee duties. Joe Birch of WMC-TV 5 manned the live auction, which featured a special item from Wish kid Lauren Derrick, who offered up her cake-decorating services that she honed while getting her wish granting on TLC’s “Cake Boss.” Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick and Don Perry
Laura Gorham, Kim Pitts and Chantal Johnson at Club LB
Sherman Willmott and Mayor Mark Luttrell at Memphis Heat Premiere
Dave Brown, Jerry Calhoun and Jimmy Hart at Memphis Heat Premiere
Laurie Benton, Stephanie Upshaw and Carmen Bond at Club LB
Carol and Greg Weidenhoffer at Club LB
cl a ssy
For underwriting information, call 90 For 901-678-2560 1-678-2560 Visit V isit us online at wumr wumr.memphis.edu .memphis.edu
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RSV PHILLIPPI
By Dennis Phillippi
THIS IS ALL TRUE
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hat blond girl is staying for the second show.” I don’t remember who said it, but I’m sure they expected me to be happy about it. After all, I had been talking about her and that blond hair. It was all I’d seen, straight blond hair that fell almost all the way down her back, the kind I’d always been a sucker for, but her staying for the second show was not good news. See, I was barely 21, headlining for only the second or third time in my career, and my second show was going to be pretty much my first show repeated verbatim. And to be honest, my first show wasn’t that good. It was a pack of lame jokes and lies, bolstered by weak impressions and the useless observations of the very young. I didn’t know just how weak it was at the time, but I knew I was going to be doing it just the same in front of the blond girl. Again, her staying for the second show was not good news. Lucky for me, the two guys on before me were also really green and didn’t have a lot of new material to roll out for a second set either. They struggled, then the comedy gods were kind enough to let me scramble, babble and steal enough material to get through a second show without anyone beating me to a punchline they had seen a couple of hours ago. Honestly, I have no memory of that set; it was a blur of desperation and plagiarism. After the show, the girl was still there, sitting in the back in a booth with a girlfriend of hers. I may have been the headliner, but no way I had the guts to approach that table. Again, fate stepped in, and the guy who opened for me, a rotund comic whose act consisted entirely of mocking himself for being obese, waddled right over to them. If he could do it, I could. This was Dillon’s Comedy Club, a place that had been a drive-thru burger joint just a couple of weeks before. It was February of 1986, when people were putting comedy clubs in any building that could hold an audience: nightclubs, restaurants, bowling alleys, pool halls and Laundromats. Honest, I played all of those. That building is now the Easy-Way Produce at Winchester and Mendenhall. Walking to that table, I vaguely remember fumbling with my big, ugly
glasses, wishing I didn’t have such an aversion to touching my eyeballs. If I had worn contacts, I would’ve been much cooler. Here’s the part people find hard to believe. When I got to that table and she turned toward me, I fell head over heels in love. No kidding. I could tell you everything about that moment: what she was wearing, how her hair fell and the puzzled,
The part that will thrill her parents is she never even took off her Members Only jacket. slight frown she wore when she looked at me. There was an REO Speedwagon song, “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” playing—again it was 1986—and she looked at me with those perfect robin’s egg peepers of hers and said, “I really like this song. Please don’t sing.” The first thing she ever said to me was an insult. Within minutes, I asked her to marry me. That was Janet, the woman I would marry less than a year-and-a-half later. That night, because I was flush with an insane amount of $400 I was making for that weekend, I was able to convince Janet and her friend that we should all go somewhere. The magic words were, as I remember, “I’m buying.” If you’ve been a Memphian long enough, you’ll find it hilarious that we ended up at Poor Red’s, a dump on Park famous for its fre-
quent patron-on-patron stabbings. We left there and went to someone’s apartment for more merriment, and then her friend announced it was time to call it a night. By that point, it had to have been around three in the morning. Here’s something my wife’s parents have never known until this moment, and it would not have made them happy. Her friend dropped us off at Janet’s parents’ house, and we stole her car. We rolled her little Toyota out of the driveway and down the street before starting it, so she could give me a ride back to my hotel. Believe me, if you were a road comedian in the mid-1980s, a girl giving you “a ride back to the hotel” was a euphemism. Or so I thought. She did drive me there, and she came to my room. I had just met and fallen in love with this heavenly creature, and she was in my hotel room. It was in the bag. The part that will thrill her parents is she never even took off her Members Only jacket. We kissed. That was it. Was I disappointed? Of course I was. I was 21 years old, and she was a stunner, but she left and that was that. We had plans to see one another the next day, and I would have to content myself with that. A few days before I met her, I was in my hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina talking to a friend who had just gotten engaged. I told that friend, with all the wisdom of a punk kid, that I believed marriage was “the death of hope.” The day after I met Janet, I called that friend and told her I was full of beans. Then, I swear this is true, in front of this girl I had known for less than 24 hours, I called my mother, on a pay phone, and told her I had met the girl I was going to marry. We would’ve spent that next evening with her having to sit through my terrible act twice more, but she had a dream date with this guy she’d been mooning over forever. Honest. On June 22, we will celebrate our 25th anniversary of being happily married. She married the first headliner she’d ever seen. Thank God it wasn’t Carrot Top.
Dennis Phillippi…you sure know how to woo a wife. We want to know though if she still owns the Members Only jacket because those are making a comeback.
AFTER HOURS
After Hours A photo collage of the latest business happenings
Art Show at Doris McLendon’s Fine Jewelry
Four Seasons/Memory Inc. Fund-raiser at Seriously FUN! Apparel
Eric Triche, Glynda Smith and Robert Bowden at Millennium Home Furnishings
Niki Rose and Bill Cannon at Doris McLendon’s Fine Jewelry
Margaret Cooper and Betty Hays at Seriously FUN! Apparel
Stephanie Harris, Ashley Hodges, Linda Ledgerwood and Colleen Hall at Millennium Home Furnishings
Joanne and Tom Watson at Doris McLendon’s Fine Jewelry
Chris Pugh and Kathy Menkel at Seriously FUN! Apparel
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Spring Open House at Millennium Home Furnishings
Thor Red-Carpet Premiere Hosted by Acura of Memphis
Gail Tyler and Dawn Thrasher at Millennium Home Furnishings
Zenia Revitz, Mildred Kiel, Joan Solomon and Margaret Fargotstein at Seriously FUN! Apparel
Mirror Guilding and Antiquing Class at Amy Howard
Baylor Hofstetter, Hunter Hapke, Barbie Hapke, Greg Hapke, Riley Hofstetter and Bailey Hapke at Acura of Memphis Premiere
Amy Howard and Tim Tanner at Amy Howard
Rachel Umansky, Megan Umansky, Shane Horton, Cydney Feinstone and Grayson Woodyard at Acura of Memphis Premiere
Cassie Warlick, Mimi McCarroll, Maggie Glosson and Kimre Merriweather at Acura of Memphis Premiere
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Class Superlatives
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or the Central High School Class of 1953, the “Most Talented” honors went to Becky Kaufman Ravinett and Jerry Buring, both pictured above at the piano. PHOTO COURTESY OF JANE LETTES
If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Leah Fitzpatrick at 2767787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
Even Rockey knows how to find “CHEEP” parking in Downtown!
Interactive online parking guide for Downtown! ParkandPlayDowntown.com
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