RSVP Magazine May 2010 by RSVP Magazine

May 2010

Staxtacular Big Wig Ball Promise Ball Stetsons & Stars “Hands of Hope” Auction Party Q&A with Major Mark Woodcock

CONTENTS

Contents May 2010

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 If you have had anything to do with the city’s storied Carnival Memphis festivities, then you’ll probably recognize Ed Galfsky.

Big Wig Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Minglewood Hall was filled with an array of over-the-top dos sported by supporters of Young Adult Le Bonheur Leaders.

12 BIG WIG BALL Nicole Payne and Marcie Braswell

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20, 28, 52 & 53 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22, 24 & 26

48 PROMISE BALL Kemp Conrad and Delta Bundy

One Memphis couple definitely knows how to throw a festival the Greek way. A transplant from New York, this playwright opened up a theater that gives the local African-American community a sense of ownership in the arts scene. He’s rapping to a new beat thanks to a divine intervention. StreetSeens highlight Diane and Kosta “Charles” Kolopanas, Ekundayo Bandele and Mr. Del.

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RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 A trek across the city’s party landscape.

Stetsons & Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

4 RSVP

Memphians went country for the sake of the Alzheimer’s Association charity party at Minglewood Hall.

26 STREETSEEN Mr. Del

Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Q&A with the Memphis Salvation Army Area Commander, Major Mark Woodcock.

Promise Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

54 “HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY Amanda Dent and Chris Thomsen

“Keeping the Promise” was the name of the game at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s benefit at The Peabody.

“Hands of Hope” Auction Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 The Exchange Club moved its annual fund-raiser to Minglewood Hall to “Raise Hope. Rock On.”

Staxtacular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 NBA stars and many more headed to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music for a “SoulShakin’ Throwdown” that benefited the Stax Music Academy.

RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

38 STETSONS & STARS “Heavy Duty” and “Midnight Choker”

Jiggity to Crotchety Read on to see why humorist Dennis Phillippi is embarrassed of using the word “boogied” this month.

56 STAXTACULAR Sabriena Boyce and Aliche Taylor

Cover Photo Brooke Barnes and Lee Harris at Promise Ball Photo by Don Perry

Volume XV

Number VIII

May 2010 PUBLISHER

Roy Haithcock EDITOR

Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelly Cox Jonathan Devin Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR

Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Nathan Berry Roy Haithcock Don Perry Steve Roberts SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Libby Huff

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Chris Pugh ACCOUNTING

Ruth Cassin 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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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 Copyright 2010 Haithcock Communications, Inc.

From the Editor

LOOK NO FURTHER

veryone warned that seasonal allergies were inevitable when I moved to Memphis, and let’s just say, I didn’t heed the warning. For two years, I seem to have escaped the dreaded pollen attack, but this year, Mother Nature couldn’t resist messing with my sinuses. I admit, I didn’t understand the misery fellow allergy sufferers endured until now, and the experience isn’t pretty. While I’m still praying for a good rain to wash the pollen away, I’ve come to accept that a bad bout of sinus pressure is worth the warm weather and amazing azaleas around town. Frankly, we urbanites should view the towering trees and array of blooming flowers in Metro Memphis as a welcome respite against the backdrop of the concrete jungle. There are not a lot of other cities of our scale that can say they offer the same flora. Speaking of elements that enhance the Memphis landscape, it goes without question that our city has many accomplished citizens, both personally and professionally. One such person was the great civil rights activist and former NAACP executive director Dr. Benjamin Hooks, who passed away last month. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Hooks in January of last year, when he welcomed me into his home for a Signature Memphis interview. Though I knew he wasn’t feeling well, he exuded lots of warmth and graciousness and thanked me numerous times for coming. He was fully engaged in the photo shoot, wanting to check out the pictures as soon as our photographer Steve Roberts took them to make sure he was sitting up straight, etc. I’ll never forget when he said, “I know how these things work because I used to help my father out in a photo studio.” I was thankful Dr. Hooks let me into his world because until that meeting, I didn’t know that he was into things like photography. The same sentiment rings true for all the interviewees I come across as editor of RSVP. Without their generosity and candor, there would be no features, which I believe are the magazine’s backbone. If you’re ready to be fascinated, turn to the StreetSeens on pages 22, 24 and 26, and the Vox Popular on page 44 for a glimpse of others who lift up Memphis.

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Photos by Steve Roberts

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Your mantra: It is what it is. Personal hero: Claude Chafin. Favorite author: Perre Magness. Guilty pleasure: The occasional cigar. Favorite Memphis musician: Party Planet. Favorite album: Chicago IV at Carnegie Hall. First job: Delivering the South Bend Tribune. Where you take out-of-town guests: Beale Street. Words or phrases you overuse: That’s what she said. First concert: Aerosmith with AC/DC as the opening act. Childhood ambition: To play basketball at Indiana University. One thing you can’t live without: My sons, Charles and Ander. Movie you could watch over and over again: The Wedding Singer. One thing most people don’t know about you: I’m a first generation American. Your greatest achievement: Being part of an organization that has raised over $1,000,000 for local children’s charities since 1999.

photo by Steve Roberts

SIGNATURE MEMPHIS M AY 2 010 RSVP

Ed Galfsky

EVENT

Big Wig Ball

BIG WIG BALL

“A Hair-Raising Time”

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John and Wendy Rainey

Kristen Lilly and Thomas Bryan

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or those wanting to try out a new hair color or style for a night, the Big Wig Ball is the answer. Now in its third year, the fund-raiser hosted by Young Adult Le Bonheur Leaders (YALL), offers guests a prime opportunity to let down, or let up, their hair in the name of charity. The dress code? Cocktail cool or whatever fits your wig. Without hesitation, nearly all of the 300 guests opted to wear wigs. Styles ran the gamut from spiked rocker dos to curly afros and bobs, with colors leaning toward vibrant hues like hot pink, blue and purple. Wearing a new coiffure wasn’t enough to stand out this night, so some attendees upped the attention factor by wearing full costumes. Stand-outs were Pippi Longstocking, Raggedy Ann, Spock, Elvis, Axl Rose and Grease cuties Danny Zuko and Sandy Olsson. FM 100 sponsored the fund-raiser for Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center at Minglewood Hall, which proved a fitting venue for attendees’ carefree attitudes and high energy rock band MissUsed, out of Birmingham. The group delivered lots of popular ‘80s hits and got in on the fun by wearing wigs and Poison and AC/DC tee shirts. After dancing, guests refueled with nibbles from Kooky Canuck, Rendezvous, Mesquite Chop House, Muddy’s Bake Shop, Café Society, Swanky’s and Just for Lunch, to name a few. Bottomless margaritas were also available for sipping with the purchase of a $20 commemorative glass. People watching has never been so exciting or so rewarding. Break out the faux hair next year, and you’ll help support the MidSouth’s first and only comprehensive pediatric medical facility. Anne Glankler, the communications specialist for Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center, added, “We’re so grateful to the members of YALL for making this event such a hip and unique night for our supporters. Every year, it gets bigger and bigger thanks to the hard work of the committee, our sponsors and also from the excitement throughout the community that continues to build about Le Bonheur.”

Daniel Colturi and Heather Cubine

Brent Weirich and Jess Wood

Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Nathan Berry See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Robyn and John Michael Pela

Kelly Newell and Lauren McGee

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Mark and Susie Kmeeshaw with Susie and Michael Rayburn

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Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Dinner West Clinic “Fallen Angels” Benefit Woman’s Exchange “WE CONSIGN” Preview Party

he Wolf River Chapter of Ducks Unlimited (DU) held its 17th annual Sponsor Dinner at DU’s

Memphis headquarters. The evening featured raffles, a five-star meal and live and silent auctions, with proMeredith and David Schuessler with Dan and Ann Felice Thiel ceeds going toward DU’s conservation projects. A nonat Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Dinner

profit committed to conserving, managing and restoring North America’s wetlands, DU designates 80 percent of its revenues to conservation efforts.

Lucy Blackmon and Gerry Finney at West Clinic “Fallen Angels” Benefit

Guests gathered at Theatre Memphis to not Fallen Angels,” only watch a preview performance of “F but to support WINGS Cancer Foundation. Prior to the performance, which was sponsored by the West Clinic, attendees perused a silent auction of donated artwork that was also available online afterward. Money raised from the event helps WINGS Cancer Foundation continue to provide hope, education, research and support M AY 2 010

without charge to anyone touched by cancer. Scott May and Steve Reynolds at Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Dinner

You name it, the Woman’s Exchange “WE CONSIGN” Preview Party had it—from rugs, art and furniture to flatware, serving pieces and children’s toys. Gail

Sally Hensley and Sandy Patterson at West Clinic “Fallen Angels” Benefit

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Mitchell and Carolyn Dobson organized the affair, and Flora Bratten served as honorary chair for an afternoon that also included lots of yummy finger foods and wine. The sale continued at the Woman’s Exchange Tea Room through April 24 and featured hundreds of new items each week. Story and Photos Submitted and by Leah Fitzpatrick

Ellen and Brook Lester at Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Dinner Sarah Blackburn and Michelle Less at West Clinic “Fallen Angels” Benefit

Carolyn Dobson, Flora Bratten and Gail Mitchell at Woman’s Exchange “WE CONSIGN” Preview Party

Mickey Schaffler, Laurie Monypeny and Jean Gorham at Woman’s Exchange “WE CONSIGN” Preview Party

Gloria Fisher and Marilyn Dilworth at Woman’s Exchange “WE CONSIGN” Preview Party

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STREETSEEN

Diane and Kosta “Charles” Kolopanas Giving Memphis a Taste of Greece

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ight off the bat, Diane Kolopanas tells you she’s not Greek, but she’s proud to be part of her husband’s heritage. Kosta, or “Charles” as he’s commonly called, has ancestors from Argos, the second oldest city in Greece, and is more than happy to indulge family and friends with tidbits about one of the world’s oldest civilizations. For 14 years now, they’ve lent a helping hand to the annual Greek Festival held at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, and this year marks their turn as co-chairs. Putting on a festival that attracts between 10,000-15,000 visitors is no small task for the duo, who began planning for the May 7-8 gathering last August. While they enlist aid from their congregation of roughly 250 families, much of their help comes from outside volunteers, especially from the nonprofit Youth Villages. Diane adds that every bit of volunteers’ assistance is needed to make the festival run smoothly, which is something she thinks the planning committee has gotten down to a science. “When I first took on a semi-major role in the festival helping out in the dining room, it would take people two hours to get through the line,” she says. “Now, people can get through the line in 20 minutes.” Wait or no wait, the food alone is worth the trip to what the church members refer to as “Our Little Greek Island on Highland” (573 Highland, to be exact). All the food is made in-house and ranges from the signature lamb and pork kabobs and sweet bread to new items like Grecian-style corn on the cob, chicken pita wraps and Greek yogurt with honey. A boutique pastry shop area will be set up outside this year with chocolate desserts and Baklava cheesecake, as well as a tasting bar for new Greek wines from Santorini, Rhodes and Crete. Mythos beer is also back by popular demand. For those who like to shop, all the merchandise vendors will be first-timers to the festival. Guests will still be able to find the traditional coin skirts, evil eyes and festival tees, but expect a different showing of clothing, jewelry, goat milk soaps and candles. The festival won’t skimp on entertainment either. Diane enthuses, “I’m so excited that the Fabulous Grecian Keys, a second generation Greek band, is coming, and we’ll still have dance lessons, inflatable rides and lots of food for kids. Everyone should also go on a sanctuary tour with Father Paul Christy if they have the chance.” Rain or shine, the festival will go on from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. both days, and if you want to say hello to Diane, just look for the lady dressed as Athena in the dining room. The outfit comes from the heart, which shouldn’t be a surprise considering the company she keeps. “Greeks do everything from their hearts,” she says. “You can guarantee we’ll feed you till you pop and make you feel like part of the family. Most importantly, this event is a fund-raiser for the church.” Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts

STREETSEEN

Ekundayo Bandele Putting His Stamp on Stage

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rowing up in Brooklyn, Ekundayo Bandele remembers being a rogue, but somewhere along the path to adulthood, he made good on his mischievousness by taking his creative energy stageside. However, playwright wasn’t a role he saw coming. “I always wanted to be a writer, but not a playwright,” Bandele confesses. “I didn’t consider theater until 1990, when I went to Tennessee State University. Then, I went back to New York and wrote a play.” As fate would have it, one play turned into four, and he even had a stint as a stagehand in Memphis for a play in which his aunt, Marjorie, acted. The only qualm with his early foray into the craft was that he viewed playwriting as a “hustle” or way to make money, instead of an art form. The Public Theater in Manhattan later changed his perception for the better, as did reading books on playwriting. Another career turning point came when Cleveland’s Karamu Theater picked up his play “Streets.” Bandele felt honored to have his work shown in a venue where Langston Hughes was once a playwright in residence, but the experience had a flipside. He says the theater butchered his play, which was enough of a discouragement to take the next nine years off to write a novel entitled Tales Go Round. Bandele also got married, had two daughters and became an art broker in New York during this time away from the stage. A new chapter began once he relocated to Memphis, also his father’s home, full time in 2004. He started organizing a weekly performance series called The Speakeasy at the Jack Robinson Gallery. The series attracted an ever-changing roster of performers, from rappers to jazz and opera singers, and soon, the event became popular enough that no seats were empty by show time. It took just one Speakeasy guest to steer Bandele’s focus in yet another direction. He says, “Michael de Caetani and I became fast friends at The Speakeasy, and he suggested I start a black repertory theater in Memphis. The next thing I knew I was meeting with Jackie Nichols of Playhouse on the Square.” Upon talking with Nichols in January 2006, Bandele learned that several others had the same idea for a black repertory theater, making the race to get his vision off the ground all the more urgent. By September 2006, Hattiloo (a combination of his daughter’s names Hatshepsut and Oluremi) Theatre was open for business. Four years later, Hattiloo boasts 50 performers and hosts eight productions a season, the Hattiloo Black Film Festival, concerts and Camp Awareness for kids. Future projects include partnering with Latino Memphis next season and having the space converted into a Black Theater Museum for the summer months. “I didn’t expect Hattiloo to become what it’s become, but it’s certainly developing into the Memphis landscape,” Bandele smiles. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts

STREETSEEN

Mr. Del The Music Man

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usic might as well be running through Mr. Del’s veins because it’s had a pull on him since childhood, when he would happily bang on pots and pans, perform in a school talent show and fall asleep to jazz and soul that his sister played. To this day, he still goes to bed with that same sound playing in the background, but during the day, Del (His full name is Delmar Lawrence.) wakes up the world with his own style of holy hip hop. A former member of the award-winning Memphis rap group Three 6 Mafia, Del went solo about 10 years ago. He says the decision was not personal, but, rather, a spiritual split that stemmed from a heart change when he dedicated his life to God. His Christian walk has provided inspiration enough for five albums, with the most recent one, Thrilla, receiving a Dove Award nomination by the Gospel Music Association for Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year. The nomination is significant in that it marks the first time a rapper from Memphis has been nominated for such an honor. He gushes, “I never thought I’d be nominated, so I guess you could say I was on a high all that day. I must say though that Memphis music has always been different from the mainstream, definitely more raw and more real.” Don’t ask Del to hold his breath until the winner is announced on April 25 at the awards show because he’s already moving forward with other projects, like his next album, Tenn Man. The title stems from several factors: a release date of October 10, 2010, a list price of $10, a compilation of 10 songs and Del’s homestate of Tennessee. “My goal is to produce a new album each year…I’m on it!” he says. He’s also devoted to his outreach effort for youth development, City of Refuge Ministries, and his label, Dedicated Music Group. The label, which has headquarters in Cordova, currently represents five artists, one of whom also garnered a Dove Award nomination. The artist in question is Mali Music, and he’s nominated for Urban Recorded Song of the Year for “Avaylable.” Del couldn’t be more proud. “I feel there’s so much talent in Memphis, and I’m definitely focused on the quality of people instead of the quantity for my label,” he says. Del seems to have found the perfect balance between each of his ventures, and he credits his mom for instilling an entrepreneurial spirit in him. He’s also a believer of speaking things into existence, but for now, he’s calling it a rap. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts

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Forget-Me-Not Trivia Night Steak n’ Burger Dinner MPACT Memphis Soul of the City Gala

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Gail White and Leigh Taylor White at Steak n’ Burger Dinner

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28 Teresa Reddoch, Jaia Shaw, Bill Reddoch, Makayla Buchanon and Diane Reddoch at Steak n’ Burger Dinner

articipants of Alzheimer’s Day Services of Memphis, Inc. were all but forgotten at the nonprofit’s fifth Forget-Me-Not Trivia Night, chaired by Claire Price and Cindy Metcalf. More than 400 guests chipped in a total of $24,000 and were even willing to go the extra mile by having their trivia teams show up at the Germantown Athletic Club dressed up as Lucille Ball in “I Love Lucy,” “Sesame Street” characters, “Gilligan’s Island” characters and Julia Child, to name a few of the costume inspirations. Rob Grayson of NPR’s Morning Edition on WKNO-FM fulfilled the emcee duties and Rebecca and Hunter Lard warned from the get-go, “Get your thinking hats on.” at MPACT Memphis Soul of the City Gala Then, Quizmaster Brother Ignatius Brown grilled the crowd with 10 rounds of questions in categories like Reality TV and TV Stars, Then and Now. More than 650 people ventured to the Racquet Club of Memphis for the 39th annual Steak n’ Burger Dinner. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, the fund-raiser, which began in Memphis, has been embraced by Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide and attracts well-known guest speakers. This year, O.J. Mayo of the Memphis Grizzlies served as the special guest for the local chapter, and Tinamarie Sauter reprised her role as event chair. Davonte McCraven was honored as the Memphis 2010 Youth of the Year winner during the program that had kids enjoying steaks and adults eating burgers. By evening’s end, $250,000 had Tom Schmitt and Petra Rees with Brent and been raised for the Boys & Girls Clubs. Wendy Meyers at MPACT Memphis Soul of the City Gala From inside the beautiful venue of Central Station’s Hudson Hall, the city’s notable young professionals made some noise for the 2010 MPACT Memphis Awards. Held in conjunction with the Soul of the City Gala, the event offered 300 guests “soul food” by Crave Catering, prom night photos, cocktails and music courtesy of Daddy Mack Blues Band. Colleen Hitch and Darrell Cobbins co-chaired the occasion, where awards went to the following: Nicole Gates (Community Involvement), Mark’s Menus (Business Achievment), Chauneice Conner (Arts and Culture Promotion), Van Davis Turner (Political Achievement), Sarah Wandrey (Newcomer of the Year), Tom Schmitt (Role Model of the Year) and Dress for Success (Organization of the Year). Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick David McKinney and Rachel Thomas with Marilyn and Earl McKinney at MPACT Memphis Soul of the City Gala

Brian and Jennifer Thrasher at Steak n’ Burger Dinner

Norman Blake, Candace Prestridge, Jackie Owens, Donna Stewart and Tim Gentry at Forget-Me-Not Trivia Night

Carol and Henry Jones, Laurence and Edwin Streuli and Suzie and Grattan Brown at Forget-Me-Not Trivia Night

John Coleman with Jeanette and Steve Martin at Forget-Me-Not Trivia Night

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A Trek Across the City’s Party L andscape Dixon Gallery and Gardens “Dinner with Chagall”

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The Dixon Gallery and Gardens knew that their guest of honor, Marc Chagall, would not be making an appearance, but the 20th-century artist was lauded nonetheless by patrons of his art in a new Dinner with benefit for the Dixon. “D Chagall” offered fans of the visual arts an opportunity to dine among works by the Modernist and at times Surrealist painter,

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30 who died in 1985, but whose legacy is among those remembered in the Dixon’s recent exhibition, “Monet to Matisse.” Guests like Donna and Mike McManus, Honey and Rudi Scheidt, Judith and Bruce Campbell, Margaret and Ed Apple and Irene and Ron Ayotte took advantage of one of the first warm spring evenings of 2010, arriving in business suits and cocktail dresses, mostly in blacks, grays and dark prints. They were greeted in the Dixon’s foyer by candlelit topiaries and a string quartet playing soft favorites from

amusement of guests. Among the crowd of about 75 people, Stacey and Thomas Hussey, Debbie and Chip Marston, Misty and James Stamper, Cathey and Glinn Alexander and Lee and Bob Harper mingled among the various works of Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Mary Cassatt, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters from the Dixon’s permanent collection as passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails went round. Just before dinner, Dixon director Kevin Sharp chimed a water glass to announce that guests could bid in a live auction for the privilege of enjoying dinner with service for eight in the Dixon Dining Room, where the two prized Chagall paintings were on display. Sharp himself presided over the auction item, which went for $400. A harpist gave a private serenade of light dinner music to the lucky table. Dinner was served on white linen and china with traditional centerpieces of fresh spring tulips, carnations and daffodils alighting over cream-colored, calligraphy place cards. The dinner itself was a masterpiece, but guest entertainer Joyce Cobb brought down the house as dessert was served.

Rabbit were just a few of the characters who were serving up wine to friends and members of the local theater during its first A TASTE of the SEASON,” a fund-raiser “A held at its facility on Forest Hill-Irene Road. As guests made the rounds munching on hors d’oeuvres donated by The Esplanade and sipping wines handpicked by Joe’s Wine and Spirits’ certified sommelier, Michael Hughes, they had an opportunity to guess each of the six characters. After filling up on crab cakes, bruschetta and chorizo-stuffed mushrooms, the thespian-o-philes made their way into the playhouse for a preview performance of

Story and photos by Jonathan Devin

some of the shows and a chance to win door prizes from Schnucks, Hyatt Place hotel and Jim’s Place restaurant. Afterward, they were treated to dessert from Costco and espresso from Panini Catering while putting in the last of their silent auction bids. By the final curtain call, the event had entertained 125 guests, and more than $6,000 was raised for the community playhouse. Some in attendance were Faye Lott, Emily Plunk, John Rone, Wesley Barnes, Mike Simpson, Dee Banta, Brent Davis, Michael Hughes, Gary Pruitt, Sharon and Jim Goldsworthy, Bill Solmson, Karen Spacek, Jim Blair, Rich Proctor, Diana and Ron Padawer, Teresa and Rick Jordan, Dorrie and Bert Szymkowicz, Nimmo and Ratan Bhagat, Jon Livaudais, Erin Shelton, Rob Day, Judy Burnett, Kay Davis, Myla Gill and Debb Watson. “We were overly thrilled at the turnout and success,” said the theater’s executive director, Brent Davis. “We hope to make this an annual event. It was such a good fit, and everyone had such a good time. It was like magic. It took a lot of hard work and planning, but it turned out perfect.”

Germantown Community Theatre “A TASTE of the SEASON” At the start of the evening, guests were unsure of which wine was from where and what to pair it with, but by the end of the evening they got the gist, along with the knowledge of next season’s productions at Germantown Community Theatre. Jesus from Godspell, Owen Musser from The Foreigner and the Velveteen

Stacey and Thomas Hussey

Broadway to classical repertoire. Young dancers from New Ballet Ensemble strolled gracefully among the room like a gathering of swans, sometimes en pointe for the

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Story and photos by Lesley Young

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Memphis Theological Seminary Henry Logan Starks Scholarship Dinner

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The Reverend Dr. Henry Logan Starks made his mark on the Memphis Theological Seminary (MTS) in the 1960s when he became one of the first African-American students to graduate and later teach at the school. Now, Dr. Starksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; legacy is making a difference for AfricanAmerican theological students. MTS hosted the Henry

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Logan Starks Scholarship Dinner, a gala occasion at Hilton Memphis. A brief video bio of the late Dr. Starks kicked off the dinner festivities, which took place after the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reception for the eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many honorees. Then, it was on to the Tennessee Ballroom, which was decked in white and black linens with lilies and hydrangeas towering over the tables. Those attending, like Dr. Luecretia Matthews and Edward

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Chet Dickson, Glenda Shorb, Paula Jacobson, James Luvene and Earline Duncan, listened attentively as honorary co-chairs Beverly C. Robertson and Gary Shorb welcomed the crowd and Grammy award-winning musician Kirk Whalum lit the ballroom with music. Dinner provided by the Hilton included a tossed green salad, herb-crusted grilled chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, pan-seared beans and a choice of cheesecake or double chocolate cake, which received almost as much applause as four special honorees. The Rev. Lynn Bumpus Dandridge and the Rev. Anthony Henderson received the Outstanding African-American Alumnus Award, Dr. G. Scott Morris received the President’s Humanitarian Award, and the Rev. Colenzo Hubbard was awarded the

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Dr. Henry Logan Starks Distinguished Service Award. Carmichael Crutchfield, Tim Orr, Jan and Michael Holmes, Amy and Jay Harvill, Mildred Alexander, Emma and Commodore Primous, Wilma and the Rev. Walter Peggs, Aurelia Kyles and the Rev. Samuel B. Kyles looked on as the crowd saluted the honorees. The generosity of sponsors, including Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, First Tennessee Bank, Jeanne and Henry Varnell, Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance and FedEx Social Responsibility, was also recognized. Proceeds from the dinner benefit the scholarship fund so that even more deserving students may achieve the same dream as Dr. Henry Logan Starks. Story by Jonathan Devin Photos by Morgan Mukarran

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Salvation Army Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auxiliary Founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Luncheon

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According to one Florida kindergartener, Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow eats Cocoa Krispies for breakfast. In a story told by the football playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother, Pam Tebow, the child witnessed the quarterback purchasing the cereal in the store and took a box to show-andtell the next day. Pam used this story as an example in a speech she delivered to supporters of the Salvation Army Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auxiliary annual Founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Luncheon, held at the U of M Holiday Inn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is one example of how we have influence,â&#x20AC;? she said to the ballroom full of women and men, young and old. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing we all have in comBillie Jean Graham, Pam Tebow, Arlene Southern mon here today. We want and Kevin Kane to lead lives of influence. We want to impact the people around us.â&#x20AC;? Pam was just one of the many engaging entertainers, along with Dr. Randall Rushing of U of Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Music, U of M head football coach Larry Porter and the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s president and CEO, Kevin Kane. Attendees also enjoyed Cordon Bleu chicken breast, Italian vegetables and Mascotte cake with almond meringue, Bavarian crĂ¨me and raspberry coulis during the lunch hour, while bidding on live auction items or purchasing the Easter-themed centerpiece. Past president Charlotte Neal was recognized with the SALLIE Award, the auxiliaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest honor, for the example she set in â&#x20AC;&#x153;having a heart for the Salvation Army, her love of God and her service to others.â&#x20AC;? The auxiliary was chartered in 1986 to raise public awareness of The Salvation Army, to facilitate services to the needy and to strengthen the financial base of the local Salvation Army. It has provided thousands of hours of volunteer service and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for The Salvation Army with close to 550 members. Those supporting the cause were Jeanie Crombie, Linda Vilag, Sally Freeman, Gayle Bennett, Mary Anne Reed, Melody and Arthur Oliver, Lois Ragsdale, Alice Moorehead, Carol Wolf, Blanche Tosh, Frances Charnes, Saranne Emerson, Susan Maxey, Barbara Maxey, Debbie Bryan, Debby Corley, Betty Benson, Courtney Neal, Shannon Biggs, Amanda Martha Gardiner and Jean Breedlove Crenshaw, Janet Hickman, Maxine Bailey, Eula Horrell, Mary Jane Criss, Martha Gardiner, Jean Breedlove, Troy Zerilla, Josie Howser, Billie Jean Graham, Arlene Southern, Rosemary Ballinger, Hilda Mullen and Mariangela Schardt. Story and photos by Lesley Young

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Local doctors and other partygoers gathered at the Esplanade for the fifth annual Zodiac Ball, benefiting the American Cancer Society®. Event chair Christopher Jenkins said the event had exceeded the $115,000 goal even before tallying the proceeds of the silent and live auctions. KIX 106 radio personality Brian Elder, who is an American Cancer Society board member, acted as emcee of the program during which Semmes-Murphey Neurologic & Spine Institute was named the 2010 honoree. Tina and Dr. Mike Jones, past chairs of the event along Chloe, Roman, Naomi and Heather Ziegler with Amanda and Dr. Michael Farmer, were among the attendees who enjoyed the dinner prepared by Esplanade executive chef Michael Dolbi. The sumptuous meal began with a salad of mixed greens with cranberries and sliced pears and vinaigrette dressing and, true to the Mardi Gras theme, the main course featured saffron rice with crawfish, prime rib and green beans almondine. Dessert consisted of a signature New Orleans dish, bread pudding. The program included a video of Camp Horizon, a summer camp near Nashville for children between the ages of 6 and 17 with cancer. Attendance at the camp is free of charge. The Rebecca Chertow and Chris Freeman first week, attendees are treated to many activities such as archery, hiking, swimming and fishing, and the second week the campers are joined by their siblings. Roman Zieglar, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 6, spoke to the guests about his experience at Camp Horizon, along with his sisters, Naomi and Chloe and mother, Heather. The Soul Shockers provided the entertainment, which was enjoyed by Allison Apple, Judith, Rachael and Kevin M. Spiegel, Lori and Paige Lee, Peggy and Bruce Richards, Rebecca Chertow, Linda and Gus Lauer, Debbie Stephens, Johnnie and Dr. Rex Amonette, Dr. Susan Murrmann, Henry Nelson, Ramona and John Seabold, Tom Bucciarelli and Dr. David Sloas. Katharine Sorenson, wife of Dr. Jeffrey Sorenson, a native of New Orleans, also attended and Dr. Johnetta Blakely, a board member of the American Cancer Society, celebrated her birthday at the event. Chris Freeman was responsible for putting together the lavish event.

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American Cancer Society® Zodiac Ball

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M AY 2 010

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he Alzheimer’s Association roped ‘em in for the third installment of Stetsons & Stars, a Western friendly fund-raiser held at Minglewood Hall. This year, 400 guests ponied up for the affair, helping raise $95,000 for the Mid-South Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Lana and Shawn Danko headed the planning committee that brought the atmosphere, attitude and eats of the Wild West to Memphis for one-night-only. Beginning at the entrance, one knew this would be a laid-back kind of event thanks to the cowboy etiquette sign that read, “Sweat never drowned no one, and always drink upstream from the herd.” Meanwhile, Roller Derby participants skated around cowboys and cowgirls, who toyed with the idea of letting loose on a mechanical bull and downing signature shots passed out by the Daisy Duke Girls. During the cocktail hour, guests also perused silent auction goods like a Rendezvous gift certificate, a Waylon Jennings record album purse, an autographed Clay Walker framed photo and an autographed drumstick by Fleetwood Mac founder Mick Fleetwood. Live auction items, such as a FedEx pilot simulator session and a David Yurman diamond and turquoise ring from Mednikow, were positioned nearby for partygoers to preview. Emcee April Norris kicked off the main program and reminded everyone about the night’s purpose when she said, “Every 70 seconds, someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.” The Dankos then thanked all for supporting the cause during hard economic times and gave the floor to Lecile Harris, a well-known rodeo clown, who lightened the mood with his comedic act. The Mulch Brothers, a country/rock duo out of Nashville, ended the evening on a high note and were even signed by Savannah Music Group after their performance. No one left the party without a good time or an empty stomach, thanks to a large buffet of chicken spaghetti, pasta, salad, mashed and sweet potatoes, blackberry cobbler, banana pudding and brownies. Appetites this big need only happen once a year, so until 2011, “Happy trails to you.”

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Vox Popular Q&A with Major Mark Woodcock

M AY 2 010

RSVP: In what city did you begin your work for the Salvation Army?

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Major Woodcock: In Martinsville, Virginia, 22 years ago. The first role, and ultimately, the role you’re trained for, is to pastor a church, and a part of that would be in a homeless shelter, in a social services office and in a variety of social services programs. My wife and I did that for the first 13 years, then we went into more of a youth role, where we oversaw Salvation Army youth programming in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. Our headquarters were in Jackson, Mississippi. We operated a summer camp and were camp directors at Camp Hidden Lake. About 5,000 people came through that camp every summer. Our role here in Memphis is administrative and deals with overseeing social services. There are two Salvation Army churches in town, and those Salvation Army officers who work in the churches are focused more on pastoral duties. Of course, one of my main objectives of coming to Memphis was to raise money and develop the program for the Ray and Joan Kroc Center. I will be in Memphis four years this June.

Photos by Don Perry

second-generation officer and Salvationist, Major Mark Woodcock has a family history steeped in the Salvation Army. He currently serves as the Memphis Salvation Army Area Commander, which is his seventh appointment with the organization. Though he maintains an office at the Purdue Center of Hope, his main focus the past four years has been raising money for the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, scheduled to open in July of 2011 at the former Fairgrounds site. RSVP editor Leah Fitzpatrick met up with Major Woodcock a few weeks after the Kroc Center groundbreaking to learn what makes this facility a place that will bridge generational and socio-economic gaps.

our books this last fiscal year. Kroc has distracted us for a while, but it was a very worthwhile distraction and will pay off in the long run. In the short term, it did come with a price. People who normally give to the operation of this facility [the Purdue Center of Hope] have pledged their donations toward Kroc. RSVP: Who set the local fund-raising goal for Kroc at $25 million?

Major Woodcock: We are appointed, so you never know. You can be in a place one year or five years. Our average is usually four years in one place.

Major Woodcock: The way that was set up was Joan Kroc said she would give about $1.5 or $1.6 billion to be split up among four territories. Memphis was one of the cities chosen for a Kroc Center in the Southern region, and when Mrs. Kroc set it up, she said she would give the construction money, which was $25 million for Memphis, and match it with an endowment. The Salvation Army in the Southern region then put the stipulation on it by requiring the chosen communities to match the endowment. Our vision was a little bigger than our wallet because the project came up to about $31 million, so our headquarters looked at the project, saw the significance of it and raised Mrs. Kroc’s commitment to $31 million. Thankfully, our matching commitment remained the same.

RSVP: What are the different counties the local Salvation Army serves?

RSVP: How long did it take to raise the $25 million in Memphis?

RSVP: How long do you typically stay in one location as a Salvation Army officer?

Major Woodcock: You’re talking about Tipton, Fayette and Shelby in Tennessee, Crittenden in Arkansas and Tunica, DeSoto and Tate in Mississippi. The bulk of our services do by far land here in Shelby County. If someone comes to us from these other counties, we certainly provide services and try to find services for them. If there’s a disaster in those areas, then we respond to that. RSVP: What’s a typical workday like for you? Major Woodcock: I often say I’m a jack of all trades and master of none. It is very true because you do a variety of things, whether it’s pastoring, counseling, resourcing, fund-raising, dealing with human resource issues, brainstorming or program development. A lot of my day deals with being in multiple meetings with board members and potential donors. The great thing is we’ve raised $25 million for Kroc, yet we have found ourselves $300,000 in debt when we closed

Major Woodcock: We very quietly in about a year-and-a-half raised $18 million. In the past two years, we went more public with a $7 million campaign. RSVP: Did you expect the Memphis community to respond as well as it did? Major Woodcock: I felt, not knowing a lot about Memphis, that it was too good of an opportunity for Memphians to pass up. I mean, we got $2 for every $1 raised. In essence, it became more than $2 for every $1 raised. One million of the $25 million raised came from the Kresge Foundation. I always felt that if we as Memphians could not come together and make this happen, then we didn’t deserve it. Memphians made it happen. To give you some contrast, Louisville, Kentucky was another city chosen for a Kroc Center, but they’re going to lose it because they can’t raise the money. Morgantown, West Virginia was another city that was chosen, but

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they pulled out because they couldn’t do the fund-raising. Charlotte, North Carolina is another city that could sure use a Kroc Center, and they pulled out because they weren’t willing to raise the money.

RSVP: Who can be a member at the Kroc Center? RSVP: What were the criteria for a Kroc Center to be built in Memphis? Major Woodcock: The Kroc Centers in the South really go the whole gamut. You have Kerrville, Texas, where the Kroc Center is the second largest building in the town. Then you have ones in Atlanta, Georgia, Memphis, Greenville, South Carolina and Augusta, Georgia, with Biloxi, Mississippi receiving one in the future. Really, the criteria were based on the capabilities of being able to raise that matching fund and to be able to build the case that your city could afford a Kroc Center. Mrs. Kroc did ask that these centers be visible and that they would represent a cross section of people in the community. As far as the Kroc Centers I know about, Memphis has hit a grand slam when it comes to meeting Mrs. Kroc’s request. You could not find a more diverse area than the Fairgrounds area, both economically and racially. RSVP: How large will Memphis’ Kroc Center be? Major Woodcock: It’s about 100,000 square feet. Ones in other cities vary in size, but in the South, we’re one of the larger units. It’s just not an ordinary community center. It really has some clever elements to it. Ours will be much more youth and family oriented.

M AY 2 010

Carpenter, is on the advisory board at Memphis City Schools after care program, so he’s very engaged in communicating with them.

RSVP: What are some of the different features that the Kroc Center will offer?

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46 Major Woodcock: Mrs. Kroc asked us to emphasize four areas: recreation, worship, the arts and education. It will have a gymnasium, but it’s not your ordinary gymnasium. The gymnasium will have all types of audiovisual screens, and one whole façade of the area will be very futuristic with garage doors that open up to reveal a stage. Yes, it has the basketball goals, volleyball and those components, but its multi-use space is the unique element. Also, there’s an indoor soccer field that will have built-in blowup play things. We will also have a Crossfire Commando Area, which is a three-story area that has challenge after challenge after challenge, from a scientific lab to a variety of different challenges that involve kids having to do problem solving. Another component is a laser room, which will basically be a laser maze. One of the things we wanted to deal with is childhood obesity. Everything kids will be doing here will involve burning calories. They will also be learning about teamwork, and people will be there to mentor kids. We’ll even have a recording studio, where kids can videotape and produce different events. Then, we have an indoor aquatics area, which is more than a swimming pool. There will be a lazy river and a splash park, for instance. I don’t know, but we’re hoping to have a rock-climbing wall at one end of the pool. RSVP: What are some of the center’s educational components? Major Woodcock: There will be a variety of art classes, nutrition classes and a rolling computer lab. One of the things we’re doing with the after-school programs and tutoring programs is we’re going out and talking to various people in the community to make sure we’re not duplicating any programs. We want to enhance programs that are already out there. Our Kroc Center director, Steve

Major Woodcock: Mrs. Kroc wanted these centers for all people, whether you’re poor or a person of means, but if you’re a person of means, you need to be paying or contributing because part of the funding for this center will be generated by membership fees. We’re a firm believer though that even if you’re a person without financial means, you can contribute by being a good citizen or even by just doing your homework. We’re putting in a software that can track, for instance, a kid, so if a kid’s involved in a program at the gym, that director can just pop in something about that kid and look him up later on to see how he’s doing. Also, everyone that comes to the center will be a member for security reasons. RSVP: What were some of your thoughts at the groundbreaking ceremony? Woodcock: First, I think it’s important for people to understand that the mission of the Salvation Army says that we’re motivated by the love of God. What we do, whether it’s feeding a hungry person or sheltering a homeless person, we do it because we love God. He’s called us to this ministry. Where this place [Purdue Center of Hope] is reactive, the Kroc Center is proactive. At the groundbreaking, it was like experiencing the love of God through people who came together and said, “This is good for Memphis.” You definitely sensed the presence of God at the ceremony, and for us, we have sensed the presence of God through this whole process. You also had so many people there who had given hundreds of hours, even thousands of hours, to making the Kroc Center a reality. I became overwhelmed emotionally to see the commitment from these people. RSVP: What do you think the general public would be most surprised to know about the Salvation Army as an organization? Major Woodcock: I think people when they think of the Salvation Army think of how we feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and respond to natural disasters, but that’s where they stop. They see those emergency needs and our response to those, but they don’t see that the Salvation Army has been actively involved in working with young people in character-building activities, working with senior citizens and working with families, and they don’t see the church aspect of the Salvation Army because the social services aspect is so overwhelming. Another unique component of the Salvation Army is the husband/wife relationship as it is with the Salvation Army. Both my wife and I are ordained ministers, and both of us have to be engaged with Salvation Army work. It’s a very unique discipline because both husband and wife have to do this. RSVP: What has been the most rewarding aspect of working with the Salvation Army? Major Woodcock: How you affect people’s lives. This job would be a lot easier if it wasn’t for people [laughs], but yet people are its greatest reward. You’re investing yourself in the people, and you see that investment returned at times. It’s amazing to me how grateful some people are for little things that we take for granted.

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EVENT

Promise Ball

PROMISE BALL

“Keeping the Promise”

M AY 2 010

Sherrie Rinehart and Anita Harrison

Matthew and Anastasia Wiseman

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here’s just one word for an evening that combines food and drink, fabulous entertainment and a worthy cause: groovy! The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International and the Elvis Presley® Charitable Foundation presented the 2010 Promise Ball with a ‘70s-themed twist at The Peabody. Psychedelic colors and daisy patterns adorned drapes along the Continental Ballroom walls, as well as the bistro tables used during the cocktail hour. About 350 guests also got in on the theme by arriving in a mix of black-tie cocktail attire and bold prints and colors right out of an “Austin Powers” movie. More than a few partygoers went so far as to browse an immense silent auction wearing white patent leather platforms and knee-high boots, while Party Planet provided soothing sounds out of the ‘70s. Dinner was served in the Grand Ballroom, which had also been transformed into a paradise of peace, love and happiness. A presentation followed that included stirring videos from Mary Tyler Moore, a ‘70s icon herself, and talk show host Larry King to remind attendees of the victories and losses of those living with Type 1 diabetes. Attendees listened with rapt attention until guest entertainer Andy Childs brought the party back to life with a special performance. The Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation not only provided sponsorship for the evening, but Jack Soden, the honorary chair and CEO of the title sponsor, also donated an Elvis Gibson Dove guitar with three generations of Presley family signatures. That and hundreds of other purchases raised more than $325,000, with 85 percent going to diabetes research in addition to 100 percent of proceeds from the “Find a Cure” live auction. The issue may have hit close to home, but the evening’s amusements were far out and, most importantly, the promises of the Promise Ball were fulfilled.

Reena and Bryan Powell

Rosie and Joe Tribbett

Story by Jonathan Devin Photos by Don Perry See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Steve Conley and Jeanie Gundlach

Dr. Mike and Tina Jones

Dane Smith and Alam Sharifi

Melinda Rothenberg, Ronni Kirsch and Ilene Friener

Jack Soden and Leighanne Hart

EVENT PROMISE BALL Ron and Melissa Sells

Ron and Jaime Newsom

Bruce and Fran Lamb

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Kathy and Chuck Martin

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EVENT PROMISE BALL

Carol and Greg Fletcher

Kaleb and Angie Brown

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Sarah Hanks and Emily Jernigan

Michael and Wendy Smith

Diane Duncan and Knox Phillips

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Steven and Melissa Strand

Dianne and Paul Westphal

Katie Jernigan, Virginia Billions and Grace Hanks

Valerie and Greg Smith

Lauren Notowich and Stephanie Smith

Michelle and Ted Beasley

EVENT PROMISE BALL Mary Elizabeth and George Burghen

Regina and Jimmy Gambill

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Monica White, Gloria Whitehead, Joyce Reaves, Jeanette Teague and Ann Durden

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Sarah and Bob Black

Mark and Tonya Robbins

Nancy and Kip Klepper

Monya and Bob Johnson

ONSITE

Onsite

River City Brewers Festival MRC Silent Auction Emissaries of Memphis Music Luncheon

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Chris Miller, Judy Goldberg and Mike McLoughlin at MRC Silent Auction

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Dawn and Caitlin Likens at MRC Silent Auction

eer and St. Patrick’s Day complement each other nicely, as evidenced by the crowd of green-clad patrons at the first River City Brewers Festival at Handy Park on Beale Street. Two tasting sessions were held during the afternoon, offering up more than 70 different flavors of beer from local, regional, national and import breweries. The Mighty Electric St. Jude Band and Mud Flap Kings entertained while guests ventured from booth to booth with their souvenir mugs sponsored by River City Management Group. Proceeds benefited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Memphis Recovery Centers, Inc. held its second annual MRC Silent Auction at the Memphis Botanic Garden recently. The event celebrated MRC’s 40th year of service and honored both Yuletide Office Solutions and Matthew Yates of AutoZone for their ongoing support. Auction items included goodies from donors like Malco Theatres, the Memphis Zoo, Push Pilates and Graceland. MRC is a licensed, accredited, nonprofit organization providing comprehensive treatment to teens and adults with drug and alcohol addictions. As MRC outreach coordinator Judy Goldberg explained, “There is no shortage of people needing treatment, but there is a shortage of funds—and that’s why we want more Memphians to know who we are and what we do.” In light of Women’s History Month (March), the Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission A Salute With a Purpose” for nine women who threw “A have made notable contributions to the Bluff City music scene. Dubbed the Emissaries of Memphis Music Luncheon, the event took place at the U of M Holiday Inn and raised funds for the Memphis Plan, a free healthcare program for Memphis musicians. Honorees included Nancy Apple, Kallen Esperian, Leslie Gower, Toni Green, Joan Lee-Nelson, Honey Scheidt, Novella Smith, Elaine Lee-Turner and Mary Unobsky. Marybeth Conley of WREG-TV’s “Live at 9” hosted the affair, and Pamela J. Marshall delivered the keynote address.

Drew and Leslie Compton at River City Brewers Festival

Andy Gesell and Russlyn Caudill at River City Brewers Festival

Story and photos by Kelly Cox and Leah Fitzpatrick

Ashley Traver, Will Gallaspy, John Kinzel and Daryll Seymour at River City Brewers Festival

Sean and Rachel Silvers at MRC Silent Auction

Berneta Miles and Anne Pitts at Emissaries of Memphis Music Luncheon

Robert Drinkwater, Carolyn Drinkwater, Delores Crawford, Elaine Lee-Turner, B.J. Worthy, Kermit Madison and Cassandra Taylor at Emissaries of Memphis Music Luncheon

Pamela J. Marshall and Kallen Esperian at Emissaries of Memphis Music Luncheon

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Onsite

“Joyful Cocktails” The Memphis Ten Art Reception Young at Art ARTini Party Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation

Emily Halpern and Maggie Murff at Young at Art ARTini Party

Jonathan Autrey and Beth Richter at Young at Art ARTini Party

Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos Submitted and by Libby Huff

Abby Elzemeyer, Megan Claney and Tate Wilson at Young at Art ARTini Party

Caitlin Williams, Kaye Litano, Stephanie Stapleton and Sandra Simpson at The Memphis Ten Art Reception

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Oliver Boyd and Greg Taff at “Joyful Cocktails”

Terry Pera, Marty McKee and Nancy Hunter at The Memphis Ten Art Reception

53 RSVP

Charla Folsom and Eric Harris at “Joyful Cocktails”

allet Memphis’ recent debut at its new Midtown home, better known as Playhouse on the Square, called for an onslaught of celebratory parties. One such gathering was “JJoyful Cocktails,” hosted by Angela Copeland and Eric Mathews for young ballet patrons. The reception followed a Sunday matinee performance of AbunDANCE: Joyful Noise, which was Ballet Memphis’ first performance at Playhouse. The Memphis Ten Art Reception showed off the talents of 10 local artists at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Held every other year, 2010 marked the event’s 10th show, which drew a packed house of more than 300 guests on opening night. Ann Aldinger, Michèle Allen, Peggy Felsenthal, Dot Halliday, Nancy Hunter, Mary Keegan, Barbara Lieberman, Marty McKee, Betty Peyton and Virginia Schoenster make up the group, who donate a portion of proceeds to the Botanic Garden’s education and horticulture programs. If martinis are your thing, then Young at Art, the young membership arm of the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, has an annual affair for you. Appropriately known as the ARTini Party, the event always serves up an array of specialty martinis and lots of dancing, art and silent auction temptations. In addition to benefiting the Dixon’s education programs and exhibitions, the evening serves as a membership drive for Young at Art. The Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation rounded out the coronations for the Grand Krewes of Carnival Memphis this year. Colleen Hitch chaired the festivities that took place at the University Club of Memphis. Stephen Cruzen served as flagman for the grand court, which featured Queen Catherine Harris and King Scott May, accompanied by Duchesses Carrie Johnson, Megan Arthur, Amy Balthrop, Vickie Moffett and Shelly Thannum.

Stephen Cruzen, Kathleen Cruzen and Philip Cruzen Sr. at Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation

Jana Lamanna, Jennie Robbins and Kim Weiss at Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation

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“HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY

EVENT

“Hands of Hope” Auction Party “Raise Hope. Rock On.”

T Dan and Lori O’Brien

Grace Fong and James Burns

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he “Hands of Hope” Auction Party benefiting the Exchange Club Family Center hit the town this year with a new address and a new attitude. About 500 chic partygoers arrived at the event’s first-time run at Minglewood Hall to find valet parking and a flight of flickering votives leading to the silent auction action. One part upscale and one part urban, with a splash of unpredictable surprises, this year’s Midtown presence distilled a “now, eclectic vibe,” said party chair Lucia Heros. “The Exchange Club Family Center is a Midtown-based organization,” said guest Brad Carmony, “and it’s wonderful to bring its biggest fund-raiser back to the Midtown area.” In the vicinity of the champagne welcome, the artistic gals of Parties With Pizzazz were on hand to prove that face painting is for grown-ups, too. Having noticed a number of pretty partying ladies blinged up with painted-on necklaces, bracelets and even diadems, this writer couldn’t resist having a cheekbone accented with a glittery design. Between the mid-tempo throb of the music and the cool, soothing touch of face-paint artist Tyler Taylor’s brush, it was a strangely spa-like moment. And the celebrity experience didn’t end there, as one next encountered the “step and repeat.” Who even knew what a “step and repeat” was until Karen Ratcliff, a member of the steering and host committee, explained it? Ratcliff said, “It’s like the red carpet at the Grammys, where stars are photographed in front of the logo backdrop.” With striking, illuminated centerpieces fashioned “literally from recycled junk,” live graffiti art by Nosey and New Ballet Ensemble dancers warming up the dance floor to the sounds of the Black Eyed Peas, the event maintained a high-energy feel, something like nightclub meets street festival. A cupcake tower, provided by Westside Cakes, highlighted the evening’s theme of “Raise Hope. Rock On.” on each little delicacy. Perhaps, the icing on the cake came when the Bo-Keys took the stage and belted out tunes that had guests getting down inside what hopefully will be the party’s new home. “This change of scene has rejuvenated the event,” said one partygoer, “maintaining valued, long-time supporters while attracting a younger set as well.

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

Ryan and Kristen Parry

Story by Kelly Cox Photos by Don Perry

Paula and Steve Beussink

Michael Pereira and Alice Higdon

Lucia and Ricky Heros

Phyllis Kesner and Phillip Wilcox

Lillian and Andre Jones with Joscelyn Shoptaw

Tommy and Raquel Carls

EVENT “HANDS OF HOPE” AUCTION PARTY

Joana Clayton, Tilea Terry and Carla Raymor

l i v e at t h e g a r d e n . c o m

Dr. Angie Roach and Todd Chapman

Dr. Sheryl Davis and Charles Harbour

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A L L T I C K E TS O N SA L E N O W to purchase tickets, visit ticketmaster.com, call 800.745.3000 or go by any area schnucks location. for more information, please call our box office at 901.576.4107.

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At Your SERVICE Kelly Erb, Caroline and Blake Billups and Alison Barton

C AT E R I N G by

Leah Donahue 246.4375

Brian and Angela Cowart

Chris and Crystal Carter

EVENT

Staxtacular

STAXTACULAR

“Soul -Shakin’ Throwdown”

ike Conley, Rudy Gay and Zach Randolph replaced their Grizzlies uniforms with suits and ties to host the sixth install-

ment of Staxtacular. As denoted in the party title, the event takes place at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, where the city’s hippest philanthropists and NBA stars gather annually to raise funding for the Stax Music Academy. The biggest crowd to date turned out for the “Soul-Shakin’ Throwdown” thanks to favorable spring temps, delicious cocktail nibbles and, of course, good music (It’s Stax after all!). Mingling

M AY 2 010

Kate Stakem and Catherine Schuhmacher

Angie and Lionel Hollins

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ensued as guests wandered throughout museum exhibits and ventured to bistro tables with plates of Hog Wild Catering specialties: grilled shrimp with barbecue remoulade and cocktail sauce, barbecue sliders, honey ginger pork tenderloin, asparagus wontons and soda fountain drinks. By the time partygoers rounded the corner past Studio A, the Bo-Keys had taken the stage to deliver their signature funk and soul sound. A slew of tempting live and silent auctions was also part of the landscape. The selection included one-of-a-kind items and experiences from the world of entertainment, music and sports—a category filled with hometown NBA swag like a 2009-2010 Grizzlies team signed basketball and a Grizz appearance at a children’s birthday party. In light of the recent passing of Big Star singer Alex Chilton, a Big Star signed box set proved a valuable commodity, but there were many other music-heavy showings, such as two LPs signed by Cyndi Lauper, autographed James Taylor vinyl and a Bo-Keys signed poster and CD. SunTrust presented the evening that helps Stax Music Academy remain a thriving spot for young musicians to gain invaluable music education and performance opportunities. Now, that’s Staxtacular!

Linda and Andy Kelly

Cindy and Kevin Brewer

Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Grant and Mandi Burke

Emily and Adam Patterson

Nikki Tinker and Allohn Willis

LaTonya Lane, Jenny Koltnow, Alayne Shoenfeld and Carly Knight

Mike Conley and Ronnie Brewer

EVENT STAXTACULAR M AY 2 010

David and Mandy Lynch

Penni and Don Walker

Carol Coleman and Jackie Ward

Dean Deyo and Evan Deyo

Emily Blair and Brett Brown

Charlie and Marie Roland

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Jason Boyce and Michelle Simkin

Sondra Levingston with Henry and Cheri Rudner

Ryan Peel and Chelsea LeMay

Mary Catherine Tagg and Warren Pan

Steven Blake, Zuri Wallace, Mary Peluso, Marc Gasol and Cristina Blesa

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RSV PHILLIPPI

By Dennis Phillippi

JIGGITTY TO CROTCHETY

M AY 2 010

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t’s my belief that it was the fedoras. As regular readers of this column throughout the last eight years or so know, my wife, friends and I like to hang around in bars. We like to socialize, watch sports and drink beer in bars. This is perfectly normal behavior for adults. For a long time, we hung around in the same bar. It’s a perfectly good bar. It has a bar. It has TVs. It has beer. It also has a lot of young people, and, see, we’re not young. They have all that nice skin and blinding white teeth, and they, well, you know, are young. They tend to get loud when they drink. They enjoy sound checks. Alcohol can make them become overly dramatic. The truth is we aged out of the place. It’s certainly not the bar’s fault. They cater to those shiny young people, and we’re not shiny anymore. We’re dustier, so we accepted our shortcomings and moved somewhere else—another bar where people sit down to drink. It’s a place where guys don’t suddenly feel compelled to prove their heterosexuality after a few drinks. We moved to a place where it’s very unlikely that the worst thing old people can do might become a temptation, like dancing. Oh yes, we’ve aged out of dancing in public. We used to dance. Good heavens, how we used to dance. I dare say we boogied even. The very fact that I used the word “boogied” and was at one point proud of having done so proves that we have aged out of the activity. Back in the day, we could shake it with the best of them, but now I’m afraid I would just look like someone’s dad. No one wants to see a dad dance, especially if he’s old enough to be the dad of adults. Had we had children, they would be tiptoeing up to aging out of dancing in public, so we’re definitely out. Now, were we to choose to do so, we could be that old couple who can really, really dance. Not the good kind of dancing though. Not the sweaty, grindy moving parts that normally don’t get moved in public places while standing up dancing. No, I mean the middle-aged couple who has obviously taken lessons and knows the difference between the Merengue and the Cha Cha. That is the type of thing we could easily claim to have aged into. It’s not so bad letting some things

go. No one wants to see me dance, and, frankly, I don’t want to go to the effort. As you get older, you age out of things that require a great deal of energy. We don’t hike, camp, run triathlons, make our own beer or own a boat. Those are all worthy pursuits, but they all call for the desire to stand up and go outside. There is something admirable about the older set who visits National Parks, tours the wine country and grows vegetables, but we’re not them. Those peo-

The very fact that I used the word “boogied” and was at one point proud of having done so proves that we have aged out of the activity. ple were always overachievers. They didn’t suddenly develop the motivation to build Adirondack chairs in their 50s; they were that kind of person when they were young. That’s why they have the time and money to take a vacation in a rain forest or help rebuild storm-ravaged communities. They had the verve to be Eagle Scouts and business leaders when they were pink and smooth. We were never those people. Those are the people we watch on TV. There are advantages to accepting your lot in life. Once you embrace your aging into wearing reading glasses, you can use them to look over at young people, implying to them that because we are grave and bespectacled, we deserve their deference. Once you allow the mantle of not being the guy who chases a purse snatcher down the street, there is a certain peace. As that miscreant bolts down the

avenue with some young, and therefore inadequate about protecting her personal property, lady’s pocketbook, no one looks at a guy like me reproachfully. What am I supposed to do? I’m old. I’ll commiserate, and then I’ll explain the importance of having all of your vital personal information, such as credit card and insurance numbers, written in a separate, safe place. The best part is, because I’m old I don’t come across as condescending, I come across as sage. If I don’t, I don’t care. I’m old. There are things I will age into in the coming years that I don’t find comforting. High-waisted pants, fascination with the weather and enjoyment of “Wheel of Fortune” don’t delight me, but the idea of being able to get discounts simply for having not died yet sounds pretty spiffy. Young people feeling compelled to help me lift heavy things because they’re young is going to be sweet revenge for their having firm chins, too. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t dislike young people. I hate them. I hate them because of their youth. Their sense of entitlement, their smug confidence that their opinion cannot be wrong, no matter how misinformed by Fox News and the Internet, and their ability to get in and out of cars and low chairs without involuntarily making grunting sounds all make me want to throttle them. Sadly, they’re too fit, focused and firm for me to throttle. It’s even worse with young men. That’s where the fedora thing comes in. In recent years, it has become de rigueur for the 20s set to sport the hats that were popular with film stars in the 1940s. Boys and girls both wear them, and they look as stupid as culottes. They look inappropriate, silly and arrogant. Young people have no business wearing them, and they wore them in the young people bar we went to so we stopped going. But, you know who looks really cool in a fedora? An old guy. I think I’ll get one.

Can’t you see Dennis Phillippi in a fedora doing his best impression of a “Dancing With the Stars” contestant? Hey, if Buzz Aldrin and Cloris Leachman can do it, then Phillippi hasn’t aged out of contention just yet. Don’t worry, we’ll have a chiropractor on speed dial.

After Hours A photo collage of the latest business happenings

ANTHROPOLOGIE OPENING AT SHOPS OF SADDLE CREEK

THE

AFTER HOURS

KITTIE KYLE TRUNK SHOW & OPEN HOUSE

SERIOUSLY FUN SPRING ARRIVALS PARTY

Kaki Valerins Smith, Cindy Gambrell and Sheryl Putnam at Kittie Kyle

Lisa McCall with LeAnn and Spence Byrum at Anthropologie

Bonnie Belz, Mary Jane Criss, Gaye Greer, Betty Hays and Cindy Billingsley at Seriously Fun

EYE SPECIALTY GROUP ANNUAL OPTOMETRIC CONTINUING EDUCATION SEMINAR Alla Olswanger and Janet Burkett at Seriously Fun

ARTREACH OPEN HOUSE

Lori Putnam, Sheryl Hibbs, Ron York and Susan Bates at Artreach

Anne Rouse, Dot Ledlow and Shannon Rouse at Artreach

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JAMES DAVIS JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW

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John and Emily Ozier at Anthropologie

Dennis Matthews, Veronica Russell and Chip Marcum at Eye Specialty Group

K.K. Weinberg, Madonna Bond and Janice Van Dyke at James Davis

Dr. Nadeem Vaiolya, Dr. Katia Taba and Dr. Andrew Krauss at Eye Specialty Group

Becky Rivalto, Jane Ezzell and Glenna Flautt at James Davis

RSVPAST

25 Years of Service

M AY 2 010

19 8 5

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he Links, Incorporated celebrates 25 years of service to the Memphis and Shelby County area this year. Originally, the group included 21 women, who had their picture taken on February 23, 1985 to commemorate the Shelby County chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beginning. Those pictured are as follows: Seated (L-R) Hattie Jackson, Charlotte Polk, Dolly Adams, 8th National President, The Links, Incorporated, Jackie Robinson, National Chapter Establishment Officer, The Links, Incorporated, Moses Hooks, Carrie Gilbert and Joyce Young; Row 2 (L-R) Bobbie Stokes, Narquenta Sims, Marvis LaVerne Jones, Henrene Davis, Carolyn Garner, Phyllis Kelley, Peggy Faulkner, Maxine Ford and Forestene London; Row 3 (L-R) Charlotte Kennedy, Elise Evans, Marvelle Watson, Rachel Miles, Janet Seymour, Olivia Patricia Coleman, Madeleine Taylor and Georgia Hobbs. PHOTO COURTESY OF DARA DAVIS If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Leah Fitzpatrick at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.

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