RSVP Magazine May 2015 by RSVP Magazine

May 2015

Red Shoe Gala Brooks Uncorked Hands of Hope Auction Party Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball Phoenix Club of Memphis 60th Anniversary Party and Mardi Gras and Casino Party

CONTENTS

Contents May 2015

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 RSVP caught up with Laura W. Morris, executive director of Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, at the sight where the park’s new Visitor Center will be erected and where Patriot Lake will be expanded as the park begins its Blue Phase of the Heart of the Park Enhancements.

Brooks Uncorked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

12 BROOKS UNCORKED Carl Maib and Virginia Cupples

The Brooks Museum of Memphis kicked-off its annual Memphis Wine + Food Series by uncorking more than 60 varieties of wine at this popular fund-raiser for the museum.

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 & 20 She is working to find quality furever homes for Pit Bull Terriers. She is growing a garden of art on Carpenter Street. StreetSeens highlight Donna Velez and Erin Harris.

36 PHOENIX CLUB OF MEMPHIS Victor Torres and Olivia DeLozier

Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball . . . . . . . . . . .22 M AY 2 015

It was a fairy tale come true as a queen was crowned and princesses honored at this magical event celebrating young female leaders.

Anne Pitts, executive director of the Levitt Shell, gives RSVP the scoop on all the rockin’ programming for the 2015 Orion Free Music Concert Series.

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RSVProfile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Phoenix Club of Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

22 GERMANTOWN CHARITY HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL John Walker and Blake Holt

The self-proclaimed Phoenicians celebrated their diamond anniversary and then let the good times roll at their annual party downtown benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis.

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44, 45, 52, 53 & 59

46 HANDS OF HOPE AUCTION PARTY Rabia and Josh Manning

Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

Hands of Hope Auction Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 The Exchange Club Family Center welcomed supporters and friends as they worked together to break the cycle of child abuse and domestic violence.

Red Shoe Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Memphians showed off their best red footwear at this circus-themed benefit for Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis.

RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Third and Boring Dennis Phillippi pens a thoughtful analysis of the state of professional football and his growing disenchantment with a sport that has come to characterize our concept of “American.”

RSVPROFILE Anne Pitts

60 RED SHOE GALA Kahari and Martha Jackson

Cover Photo Matt and Caylee Easterling at Hands of Hope Auction Party Photo by Daniel Frederick

R SV P S TA F F Volume XX

Number VIII

May 2015 PUBLISHER

Roy Haithcock EDITOR

R achel Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Ander son Emily Adams Keplinger Patrick L antrip Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR

Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS

Daniel Frederick Patrick L antrip Don Perry Steve Roberts

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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Chris Pugh Robin Morgan ACCOUNTING

Ruth Cassin

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

Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.

RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact Roy Haithcock Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax (901) 276-7785 e-mail publisher@rsvpmagazine.com WEB

www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event. Call 901-276-7787, ext. 105 or fax to 901-276-7785. e-mail editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on

RSVP Memphis Magazine

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

Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious, and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girlfriends. Robin's "bright spot" is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!

From the Editor

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love May in Memphis. The skies are blue, endurance patio brunching is a thing and you can spot more and more people walking, biking and jogging. Nothing is nicer than seeing people from all walks of life emerging from winter hibernation and coming together to enjoy the great aspects of our Bluff City. Memphis in May is happening, people are hanging out at the park and the Shelby Farms Greenline is once again crowded with people of all ages. Really, there is no other city like Memphis. Sure, there are a million places out there in the world where you can catch a free concert, hop on your bike, grab a growler of local craft beer and, maybe even find a decent plate of barbecue (OK, I’m on the fence about that one). But, no one comes close to the diversity, soul and energy of Memphis. When we do anything, we give 110 percent. Whether that means volunteering, creating art, cooking, cheering or just attending the neighbor’s cookout, it’s go big or go home around here, and that’s never been more apparent then right now in Memphis. There is no other place I’d rather be. Our May issue reflects the vibrant spring energy of the city right now, with several features spotlighting some special people in Memphis that are going big and bringing people together. Anne Pitts, executive director of the Levitt Shell, is our RSVProfile (page 30), and she is bringing an eclectic mix of musical genres for FREE once again for the year’s 2015 Orion Free Music Concert Series at the Shell. Donna Velez, founder of Hearts of Gold Pit Rescue is pairing rescued pit bulls with quality adoptive families (page 18). Erin Harris, founder of the Carpenter Art Garden is using the power of art to positively impact one Binghampton street (page 20). Don’t blink; great things are happening in Memphis!

Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com

Executive Director, Shelby Farms Park Conservancy

Hometown: Memphis! Place You Go to Think: A hike in the woods. Biggest Pet Peeve: People who litter (grrrrrrrr). Best Gift You Ever Received: My beautiful sons, Wes and Chase. Favorite Places to Travel: Almost anywhere. I love an adventure! Favorite Song: “I Really Need Love” by The Bees. Makes me smile. Who Inspires You: The excellent team of staff and volunteers at Shelby Farms Park! Best Advice You Ever Got: Do what you love. Love what you do. And always stay true to yourself. Your Lucky Charm: My husband, John, who is also my supporter, defender and sounding board. Your Best Qualities: Passion and perseverance are my best qualities, but only when I use a filter (smile). One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: We’re on our way to delivering one of the most exciting 21st century parks in the world! First Car You Drove: A 1972 Ford Maverick that cost $700 and broke within two weeks. The repair cost was $1,500. Sometimes you get what you pay for! Best “Hidden” Spot in the Park: There are lots of places for solitude in the Park. I especially like to visit one of the beautiful little ponds off of the Tour de Wolf trail. A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: The famous urbanist, Jane Jacobs. She popularized the notion that cities should be humanly scaled, humane and vibrant. Coolest Thing About Shelby Farms Park: As one of the largest metropolitan parks in North America, Shelby Farms has (and will have) both active and vibrant places, as well as places for quiet and solitude.

Photo by Steve Roberts

SIGNATURE MEMPHIS M AY 2 015 RSVP

Laura W. Morris

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EVENT

Brooks Uncorked

BROOKS UNCORKED

“Celebr ating the Art of Good Taste”

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Kelly Phillips and Jeramie Simmons

Stacie Reynolds and Wendy Fields

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he 23rd annual Memphis Wine + Food Series of the Brooks Museum of Art kicked-off with Brooks Uncorked, an event that allowed art lovers and oenophiles alike to come together and raise a glass to a museum that consistently fills the Memphis community with culture and fun. This year’s series theme “Savor the Bouquet: Freshly Picked From a Garden of Varietals” promises a year of exciting events that combines local food, great wine, renowned artists and celebrated vintners. Going beyond a good time, Brooks Uncorked and all Memphis Wine + Food Series events help raise funds for Brooks’ operations and outreach programs. Guests gladly partake in the charitable merriment each year, and Brooks Uncorked 2015 was no different with everything enjoyed in the spirit of “celebrating the art of good taste.” Not only did Brooks Uncorked kick-off the Wine + Food Series, it also kicked off the first night of spring, and more than 450 guests wore their freshest spring attire as they filed into the museum with complimentary wine glasses in hand that had been filled while they were waiting in line. Once inside, guests were surrounded by over 60 varieties of wine from Buster’s Liquors & Wines, all separated into tables labeled as American White, American Red, Old World or New World. Guests nibbled on local cuisine as they sampled the plethora of wines. Bounty on Broad didn’t hold back with broccoli with pork jowl and spring onions. The Capital Grille impressed with steak tartare, barbecue truffle deviled eggs and their take on a cocktail turned dessert, the Manhattan cupcake that was composed of bourbon cake, bitter orange icing and a candied cherry for the top. A silent auction also attracted a great deal of attention with select items such as a basketball signed by the Memphis Grizzlies, original art by Matthew Hasty, and a Memphis in May package that included two month-long passes and a framed Memphis in May poster. As attendees made their way into the back of the museum, they stopped by the Chez Philippe at the Peabody table and tried a large assortment of tempting bites like the smoked trout crêpe, passion fruit tarts, poppy seed macaroons and cheese cake pops. Outside on the terrace, The Plaintiffs really got the party going with dance classics. Frost Bake Shop handed out cupcakes, and Shotwell Candy Co. had guests returning to sample all their unique caramels like the five-spice dark chocolate caramels. The Memphis Wine + Food series will continue with Crafted: Hand-Crafted Beer + Locally-Crafted Food on April 25, the Fleming’s Wine Dinner on April 26, the Private Winemaker Dinner on May 8, the Grand Auction on May 9 and will conclude with Vin-A-Que on October 2. Special guest vintners and featured artist Ashley Longshore will be present at the Private Winemaker Dinner and Grand Auction.

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

Buck Lawson and Lindsay Pate

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry

Heather Klein and John Laiche

Kathy Simonetti and Fred Langston

Corey and Ashley McCullough

Maritza Anderson and Holly Ford

Natalie Hickman, Carson Byrd and Katy Murphy

Monique Jalenak and Sherra Meyers

EVENT BROOKS UNCORKED M AY 2 015

Mary Lynn and Tom Cassidy

Carmelita and Ivan Brackett

Jan Taylor and Henry Todd

Steve West and Pamela Hauber

Matt and Kim Kessela

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Larrie Rodriguez and Michael Ingalsbe

Robert Munoz and Stephany Goodnight

Teddy Gorman and Nicole Lauchaire

Terry and Caprice Morgan

Brantley Elzey and Jim Renfrow

Lauren and Jamison Callins

EVENT BROOKS UNCORKED Fiona Binder and Alan Compton

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Todd Adams and Karin Frost

Teresa Starnes, Inglish Maffitt and Rebecca Day RSVP

Tommy Patrick and Traci Cox

Thomas Whitehorn and Jennie LaBate

Debbie Rosenthal and Lauren Pelts with Sami and David Rosenthal

EVENT BROOKS UNCORKED M AY 2 015

Polly and Steve Havard

Drew and Melia Murphy

Sally and Ashley Pace

Linda Viqueire and Doug Frens

Kemba Ford and Kimberly Moore

Audrey and Greg Siskind

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Elisha Vego and Terry Radford

Jackie Lauter, Lauren Mitchell, Lynn Calzada and Sherron Biggers

Tiffany Ray and Justin Harriman

Claire Cole and Josh Morris

Michael and Alys Drake with Kim and Johnny Pitts

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STREETSEEN

Donna Velez A Heart of Gold

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it Bull Terriers often get a bad rap. Yet, for those who work closely with the breed, pit bulls are more often than not known as intelligent, loyal and energetic dogs with unbreakable spirits and big hearts. More and more, pit bulls are showing up on our streets and in our rescue shelters because many pit owners are uneducated about the breed and cannot cope with their pet. Some abuse the strength of these animals in illegal activities such as dog fighting. This has created a domino effect of landlords and insurance companies rejecting the breed, causing pit owners to either abandon or surrender a pit breed. Many shelters can’t handle the number of these rescued pits filling their already crowded kennels. Donna Velez and her nonprofit Hearts of Gold Pit Rescue (HoGPR) is one resource that is lending a hand to help pit bulls in Memphis and the surrounding areas. Founded by Velez, HoGPR is on a mission to educate the public about this misunderstood breed and find top-notch homes for neglected and abused pit bulls. “The best part about pit bulls is their enthusiasm. They are such enthusiastic dogs. They love hard, they play hard, they sleep hard, and they are enthusiastic about everything they do,” Velez comments. Velez shows off her pit bull friend, Billy, who is a dog-fighting survivor and was rescued and adopted by Velez. Velez started HoGPR in 2003 after fostering mixed breed dogs for several years when she noticed that there were no organized pit bull rescue groups in Tennessee that she was aware of. “I thought, ‘Well everyone is helping all these other breeds, but no one is helping pit bulls.’ I decided someone needed to change that, so I did,” Velez explains, recounting that her first pit rescue was in 1989 when she adopted a family friend’s female pit that had a knack for escaping. She laughs, describing how 10 days later that pit bull had 15 puppies. “She was pregnant. That is what got me started. I was thrown into it!” Since 2003, Velez and her team have rescued close to 500 pit bulls. Like its fostered pits, HoGPR does not have a permanent base for the nonprofit. Velez runs HoGPR out of her home, using volunteer homes as satellite bases for pit fostering until an adoptive family is found. Velez explains that HoGPR is very selective about who they allow to adopt their rescued pits, wanting to find forever homes and pet owners that understand the breed and have the resources to take the very best care of the animal. “Not everybody needs a pit bull. These dogs are smart dogs and need their minds stimulated,” Velez says, adding, “They need someone who can appreciate a smart dog. Some people want lazy couch potato dogs. They want something easy, which is fine. Everyone is different, but pit bull owners appreciate a dog with a quick mind, determination and courage. All the qualities that they have, you need to match them to that adopter.” Overtime, Velez and HoGPR have adopted their rescued pits to people of all ages, occupations and lifestyles but one thing that connects them all is their love of the pit bull breed and their ability to provide a home that caters to the energetic needs of the breed. By placing pits in quality homes, she says, the owners, in turn, help change the public perception of pits by being responsible owners. She notes, “If I put them in a home that doesn’t know how to responsibly handle them, then I have contributed to the pit bull’s bad reputation instead of helped it.” Velez and her HoGPR team are currently looking for more donors and hope that, eventually, they will be able to find their own forever home for their rescue efforts. At the moment, HoGPR is able to save 35-40 dogs a year, but they want to increase this number through the support of the community. Interested in lending a helping hand or fostering these furry friends? Take a look at the HoGPR website www.heartsofgoldpitrescue.com. Artist Amanda Buchanan is also offering her artistic services with 50 percent of the proceeds going to HoGPR at www.facebook.com/PaintItCoolBodyArt. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

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STREETSEEN

Erin Harris A Neighborhood United Through Art

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rin Harris felt a calling to use her passion for teaching art in a way that united people and offered a tranquil spot for creativity and peace. After teaching art for 9 years and beginning a new job at Flicker Street Studio, she decided she wanted to transform a blighted lot into a place of beauty where children could create and learn art. After approaching Robert Montague of Binghampton Development Corporation three years ago, Harris and Montague started looking for properties where Harris’ vision could take shape. When they visited 301 Carpenter Street, Harris knew that was it. “It was the first property that we looked at, and it is right across the street from Lester Middle School and Cornerstone Preparatory School. At that time, this was the worst street in Binghampton. After school, the children have to walk down this street. They needed something positive to see on their route home. I didn’t need to see any other places that day. I knew this was the spot,” Harris recalls. From there, Harris gathered a good group of friends, and, together, they sat in the lot everyday with pencils and paper, inviting children to participate in art activities on their way home from school. Eventually, it became the Carpenter Art Garden. From an empty lot, it became a place where Harris and her team sat down with children from the neighborhood and gave them an opportunity to be creative and learn about an eclectic array of art styles and techniques. She worked with the kids to beautify the lot, displaying the children’s art, applying mosaic designs to the concrete furniture, and filling the space with colorful plants. Going beyond cut-and-paste art projects, the Carpenter Art Garden is teaching children advanced art methods from start to finish. Harris says instead of just giving the children mosaics titles to use on their project, she and her team have taught them the entire mosaic process from rolling the clay, firing it in the kiln, painting the new tiles and then applying them to a design. They offer Art Garden days every Tuesday of the week. They also have monthly rotating artists that teach the children a particular art style like sculpture or painting. Participating artists in the past have included Danny Broadway and Melissa Dunn. Recently, the Garden gave itself more space by adding on its newest addition, the Purple House. Located next door, the Purple House is now where children can come, Monday through Thursday, and receive tutoring and homework help. Additionally, Harris comments that the Garden is planning to buy the house across the street from the Purple House and turn it into a place where children can learn how to repair bikes, which will, hopefully, lead to jobs. She is optimistic that with time that bike repair shop can lead to the development of a bike apprentice program. “The kids in the neighborhood are all about bikes. They rebuild them, they swap parts and they talk about them. A bike shop seems like a perfect fit for the Carpenter Art Garden,” Harris shares, adding that their close proximity to the Greenline and Hampline would allow them to offer their repairing services to people riding near the area. She mentions that this space will allow Donte Davis, who creates the popular heart-shaped Memphis Grizzlies yard signs, to have more room to work on his orders, of which he receives several a day and saves a portion of the funds for himself. Harris is also planning on using the space for a bike-sharing program that will give kids a chance to rent bikes for supervised group rides on the Greenline. They already have a head start on bikes becuase Memphians donated several when they heard that Davis’ bike, purchased with his Griz heart savings, was damaged. The house will also be used to do furniture restoration and frame building from repurposed wood, a job opportunity for both young adults and adults. Harris says that the children are discovering artistic talents and the Garden is allowing them to flourish and experiment with those talents. Many children have shown advanced artistic gifts, and Harris is giving them the opportunity to show their work publically, developing the business side to art. The Garden hosts two fund-raisers each year where the children’s art is on display. The last was held at Flicker Street Studio where children’s artwork was paired with the art of local artists that taught them. Like a true gallery opening, their artwork was sold, and select children got to mingle and network. The proceeds benefited the Garden, and the next art event in December will benefit the children directly. Carpenter Art Garden is changing lives through art. They are always looking for donations to help them expand and provide quality art supplies for their growing artists. For more information take a look at their website http://www.carpenterartgarden.com. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

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GERMANTOWN CHARITY HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL

EVENT

Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball A Fairy Tale Evening

O Elizabeth Stagich and John Stagich

Jean and Doug Oldham

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n a night when many events were postponed, as the last of the ice dissipated from city streets, enthusiasts of the Germantown Charity Horse Show weren’t about to let a little winter weather get in the way of their 2015 Royal Ball. Some 500 guests filled the ballroom at Woodland Hills and mingled during the cocktail hour as they enjoyed a buffet of light appetizers. At exactly 8 p.m., the sound of French horns, played by Doris and Laura Shifflette, rang out, signaling the beginning of the presentation. The Germantown Symphony Quartet played softly as master of ceremonies, Chiffonye Cobb Mack, read the list of the Royal Ball princesses being honored at the event, announcing each young lady’s achievements as they descended the twin staircases on each side of the ballroom. Becoming a princess involves several components, explained Nancy Douglas France, princess chairman. “It’s a yearlong process. All princesses are required to complete service hours at the Exchange Club Family Center of Memphis, attend monthly meetings and other events,” France explained. Although the princesses do not have to be Germantown residents or even equestrians, they must be sponsored by a Germantown organization or association. Oak View Stables, the Germantown Garden Club, Pegasus of Germantown, Hunters Edge Stables and Oak Crest Farms were among the group of sponsors. As a nod to one of the organizations that sponsored two princesses, a Cinderella theme was selected this year. “With the Nashoba Carriage Association as a sponsor, we thought of Cinderella’s carriage,” Mary Livesay, chairman of the event, said. Miniature mice made of chocolate surrounded the table centerpieces, pumpkins with blush-pink roses. After the 22 princesses were presented, Elizabeth Bennett Stagich, daughter of event co-chairman, Dorothy Ewing Stagich, was crowned queen. In keeping with the theme, on the page opposite her photo in the program, a glass slipper was pictured. After the coronation, Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo read a proclamation. The song from the movie “Cinderella” began to play as the queen danced with her father. Soon the princesses joined them, escorted by their fathers. Following the presentation, a dinner of chicken Masala with mushrooms accompanied by roasted root vegetables and spinach soufflé was served. Guests with a sweet tooth had a choice of chocolate mousse or trifle with mixed berries. After the sumptuous meal, which was catered by Woodland Hills Catering, The King Beez took the stage and dancers crowded the floor until just shy of midnight. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Hassen Hawkins and Michael Hawkins

Story by Suzanne Thompson Photos by Don Perry

Matt and Wendy VanCleve

Leif Olson and Ani Carruthers

Murray and Karen Foster

Virginia Barron and Mary Liz Foster

Maxine and Noel Oliver with Mary Livesay

Joshua McNabb and Lauren Bettendorf

EVENT GERMANTOWN CHARITY HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL

Avery Marquis and Jake Tipton

Albert Markle and Lillie Kay Mitchell

Bailey Clark and Noah Winstead

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Shellie and Harrison Eller

Mike Ferrell and Elizabeth Ferrell

Christina Yobak and Lexi Kilmore

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Connor Shackelford and Kate Duke

Blake Holt and Meegie Glass with Sarah and Will Bettendorf

Colin Scoggins and Madison Davis

Zach Obaji and Clay Alder

Kristen Douglas, Mary Carter and Julie Mullins

EVENT GERMANTOWN CHARITY HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL

Stephanie Barry and Will Carter

Brian Krauch and K. B. Walker

Jessie McMahon and Robert Matthews

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Jerilyn Hayward and Evans Woodward

Kevin and Lauren Luke

Jennifer and Lance Krutchen

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Jessica Haste and Evan Wiley

Libby Barger and Allie Rudisill

Kathryn and Walter Foster with Lucia Outlan, Tracy C. Woods and Melissa Jones

Andrea Gilbert and Rob Winfrey

Griffin Hawkins, Quinn Peeper, Katie Bratcher and Will Hawkins

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EVENT GERMANTOWN CHARITY HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL

Tim Martin and Alex Livesay

Jane Shelby Bragg and Caitlin Caroline Green

Chase Baker and Madelyn Malone

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Ted Letsou and Sarah Zuckerman

Savannah Hottel and Carsen Rooney

Laura Shifflette and Phillip Lawson

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Sarah Bowers and Jack Nash

Mayor Mike Palazzolo with John, Candy and Johnny Duke

MaryLisa Wagner and Melissa Beall

Payton Paradise and Ann Ashford McLemore

Krista, Jennifer, Shanna, Julianna, and Sonny Beyer

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RSV PROFILE

RSVProfile One Lawn, One Stage: A Stronger Memphis with Anne Pitts and the Levitt Shell uilt in 1936 and generally acknowledged as the site where the rock cosmos aligned to produce the firstever rock ‘n’ roll show when Elvis Presley took the stage in 1954, the Levitt Shell (formally the Overton Park Shell) has been through a lot over the years, but the outdoor performing arts pavilion has continually been a place that unites the Memphis community through art, music and camaraderie.

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Located in the heart of Overton Park, the Levitt Shell puts on more than 50 free concerts each year. These free shows are made possible by the contributions of Memphis businesses and individuals, but there is one woman that is putting all the tiny pieces together and weaving together a magical experience for the city, Levitt Shell Executive Director Anne Pitts. On May 16, the 2015 Orion Free Music Concert Series will open up with the Memphis Renaissance & Harlem show, a tribute to African-American music and history, and Memphians will once again share a summer of free music together. Pitts works tirelessly and energetically to create an experience that transports and connects audience members as well as shines a spotlight on artists from out-of-town and those from our very own neighborhood. Her excitement and dedication to using the music at the Shell to bring people together is acutely contagious and, if the increasing audience attendance over the last couple of years is any indicator, Memphians have caught the bug too, realizing that the Shell is more than free concerts - it’s a place where we come together, share a lawn, share a moment and build stronger community roots. Pitts got her start with the Levitt Shell in 2008, when she received a call from Barry Lichterman and Jeff Goldstein, members of Friends of the Levitt Pavilion Memphis (FLPM). At the time, Pitts was working as the part owner of an artist and tour management company as well as a partner in a two-person law firm in Oxford, Miss. Lichterman and Goldstein shared with Pitts their work with FLPM to renovate the Shell and present free concerts there through their partnership with the City of Memphis and the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation. They were a year into renova-

tions, one month away from the first concert and they offered Pitts the position of executive director. Pitts dove in headfirst. “What sold me was the concept of building community, using music as a catalyst for bringing people together out on the lawn, night after night with quality music.” Pitts describes the night, September 4, 2008, that the renovated Levitt Shell put on its first concert and the moment when, as Pitts says, “Memphis said yes to the Levitt Shell.” “When the LED lights came on in the shape of a rainbow for the very first time as Amy LaVere took the stage, you could just hear the gasp through the crowd,” Pitts exclaims, the excitement still radiating from her six years later. This year, the Levitt Shell has increased their lineup to include 53 free performances as well as some music and art workshops that complement the performances. “It is kind of a landmark time for us. The last couple of years have been really significant growth for the Shell in terms of audience and in terms of the kinds of music we have been able to bring here to the venue,” she explains, adding that this growth has been made possible through the Shell’s partnership with several other Memphis organizations and institutions such as Stax Music Academy, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, the UrbanArt Commission and New Ballet Ensemble & School, to only name a few of their recent collaborations. One such major collaboration is this year’s opening show, the Memphis Renaissance & Harlem show with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and New Ballet Ensemble & School. Dedicated to the memory of Martha Ellen Maxwell, pioneer, supporter and funder of the arts in Memphis as well as a founding board member of the Levitt Shell, the show will celebrate Maxwell’s legacy and celebrate AfricanAmerican music and history in our nation and in Memphis, featuring compositions from Duke Ellington and Langston Hughes and other artists. Pitts notes, “This show allows us to tip our hat to that piece of history that the Shell was a part of, as well as Maxwell’s impact on the arts in Memphis. We have planned several projects that will be happening around the Shell on that day and one of them is in

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conjunction with the UrbanArt Commission.” Pitts happily details a day of free fun at the Shell for the community through their partnership with UrbanArt that will include participation in a mural on the east-facing wall of the Shell restrooms and a chance for Memphians to share what they love about the Shell, the music or the city. “We will record their stories, take their photographs and include them in placards that expresses a few words or a picture that embodies their personal story. We want to weave that all together into a digital community board that will be on our website,” Pitts states. They will also have a spot where people will have the opportunity to decorate a Levitt Shell-shaped yard sign. One of the goals that the Shell always strives to meet is providing a diverse lineup of music during the concert series. Pitts shares that this year, especially, is a culmination of that goal with artists like Black Violin and Red Baraat playing in June. Both bands exemplify a fusion of genres in their music. Black Violin pairs hip-hop and classical, and Red Baraat is a 12piece band that mixes hip-hop, R&B and Middle Eastern music. Pitts shares that it is this exact fusion of multiple genres that the Shell is constantly working to provide to its listeners. “It is about taking multiple genres, multiple people, multiple cultures, mixing it together and making a really beautiful thing out of it. For me, that is the theme of what we do here at the Shell, bringing people from all over Memphis, all walks of life, all neighborhoods, all backgrounds and having them there on the lawn together,” Pitts comments. Black Violin will also be collaborating with the Stax Music Academy to provide a mini-workshop to children and adults who want to learn more about classical and hip-hop music. Pitts also notes that she is looking forward to Gedeon Luke & The People whose

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true. We bring in around $60,000 just from passing the bucket. We are so grateful for the people that put their dollars in. It’s not me, and it’s not just the work of the Levitt Shell Pavilion, Inc., but it’s all of Memphis that has made it all happen.” The renovated Levitt Shell is a culmination of effort from several different Memphis organizations and strong-willed individuals throughout its 79-year history, including Pitts and the FLMP, who have protected it from demolition, blight, and, ultimately, from becoming one

year, every person in the audience was up on their feet. Broad daylight, everyone was shaking it!” Pitts laughs. The Patriotic Pops show is another performance that Pitts says she not only personally enjoys but that also drew in over 5,000 people last year. The 4th of July celebration collaborates with the Second Presbyterian Church choir and includes fireworks and patriotic music. Pitts also notes that they have acquired a new LED screen for the venue that is visible in daylight, allowing more time for different elements of programming and especially for their free movie series in the fall. Pitts and her team at the Levitt Shell work hard to keep the programs free as well as offer competitive rates to the performing artists, citing that, on average, the cost of every free concert at the Shell is $8,000. “We pay competitive rates not just to the artists from out-of-town, but also competitive rates to the artists that are here. We want to be an important part of the ability of musicians here and outside of Memphis to make a living,” Pitts explains. The Shell’s ability to do so is because of individual and corporate sponsorships and donations, but, Pitts adds, “passing the bucket” for donations at every concert also provides 15 percent of what the Shell spends every year. Pitts notes, “When I stand on stage every night and tell the audience that its money pays for the music on this stage, it is a 100 percent

of the many forgotten landmarks Memphis has a tendency to collect. Pitts, the Levitt Shell board and staff have rekindled the spirit that the Shell was originally created with, one focused on providing the public access to art and music, and have added on to that vision, designing a place where people from all cultural and monetary backgrounds can sit together, share quality music and foster long-lasting community connections. Pitts explains that the Levitt Shell is one out of six Levitt Pavilions across the country, created in partnership with the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation from which the Levitt Shell in Memphis receives a little less than 15 percent of its core operating funds from. When asked how Memphis adds up to the other pavilions, Pitts responds that there is no comparison. “Memphis has the best music in the world. Memphis has the best people in the world. Memphis has the greatest charitable and most giving spirit in the world. Other places are wonderful, but the Shell has been here since 1936. Grandparents and great-grandparents went to concerts here. Kids are growing up here. It is part of the fabric of this city.” Don’t miss this year’s fantastic 2015 Orion Free Music Concert Series. Take a look at their website www.levittshell.org to find show dates and times. Did we mention it’s free?

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music she describes, a fusion of the funkiest funk band you can imagine with the charisma of Prince, that would be Gedeon Luke & The People.” A strong description for a New York City band that has several Memphis connections, including front man Gedeon Luke who originally hails from Memphis. His sister, who also performs with him, is a student at the Soulsville Charter School in Memphis. “Usually, nobody will start dancing until it is pitch-black outside, except for the kids. When Gedeon Luke & The People went up last

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Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry

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PHOENIX CLUB 60TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

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Phoenix Club of Memphis 60th Anniversary + Mardi Gras and Casino Party

T Dan and Nora Conaway

Patty and Harry Johnson

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he year was 1955, Dwight D. Eisenhower was the president, the conflict in Vietnam hadn’t yet began, Bill Haley & His Comets were “Rocking Around the Clock,” James Dean was East of Eden, and a group of Korean War veterans were looking for a way to serve their community at home after serving their country overseas. Thus, the Phoenix Club of Memphis was born. Fast-forward 60 years later, and the Phoenix Club is still serving the Mid-South by raising money and donating their time to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis (BGCGM). The self-proclaimed Phoenicians came together to celebrate 60 years as a nonprofit organization and then picked up the party again a few nights later as they raised funds for the BGCGM at their annual Mardi Gras and Casino Party. The Phoenix Club’s 60th Anniversary Party at the Memphis Country Club celebrated everything Phoenix, past and present. Members were honored for their services, including Will Carter with the Larry Mallery New Member Award of the year; Tommy Sneed with the Byron Fisher Outstanding Member of the Year Award and Jeff Savage with the John J. Thomason Leadership Award. Patrick Crump was posthumously recognized with an award named after him, the Patrick Crump Old Timer of the Year Award, and presented to his wife, Holly. After the awards ceremony concluded, the guests rose in true Phoenix fashion to once again drink, dance and celebrate to the sounds of the King Beez. At the end of the ceremony, a check for over $188,000 was graciously presented to representatives of the BGCGM. The Phoenicians picked up the party once again at the Memphis Central Train Station for their annual Mardi Gras and Casino Party. One of Phoenix Club’s biggest party of the year was a great success and culminated with a show by Memphis’ own Project Pat. Other than the musical closer, unique cocktails, dancing and games of chance were the main attractions of the evening. There were blackjack and craps tables lining the walls of the room offering guests a chance to test their luck with the cards or dice. Several local restaurants also added to the fun by donating their time and creations to the party. The Silly Goose Lounge manned a station where they handed out one of their signature cocktails, a unique gin-based cocktail that also included fresh honey syrup and orange juice. The Blind Bear Speakeasy station prominently featured American Born Moonshine. Earnestine & Hazel’s also joined in on the festivities and offered a delicious tropical juice concoction. Downstairs, there was a VIP section with additional craps and blackjack tables, liquor donated by Pyramid Vodka. Memphis Pizza Café and Earnestine & Hazel’s also served up some tasty food to VIP guests. Project Pat’s performance literally brought the crowd to raucous roar, and had everyone on the dance floor to conclude the evening.

Zac and Bethany McRae

Clay and Sally Isom

Story and Photos by Patrick Lantrip See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Jake and Cindy McRae

Norman and Gina Brown

Mark and Tracy Strickland

Lori and Jeffery Goldberg with Andy and Suzie Cowan

Cynthia Talley and Steve White

EVENT PHOENIX CLUB 60TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Dick and Frances Cowan with Mary and Bill Loveless

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John Gillespie, Jack Steffner, Dorothy Steffner, John Collier and Ben Buffington

Michael and Valerie Richards

Tamara Vance and Traci Strickland

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Chip and Noel Brown

Bob Mednikow, Sibyl Fishburn and Sam Hollis

Chirag and Mandy Chauhan

Sarah Burch and Sam Lynd

Kathy Photopulos and Erina Van Horn

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EVENT PHOENIX CLUB 60TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Megan Kline and Larry Pennington

Katie and Tommy Sneed

Kirby and Windy May

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Becca and Franklin Childress

Martha and Jerrold Graber

Stephen and Lane Cross

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Bill and Carmine Vaughan

Martin Thompson, David Sorsby and Ed Beasley

Jeff and Cindy Savage

Edith and Bob Heller

Christopher Williams with Nicole and Ross Ridenhour

EVENT PHOENIX CLUB MARDI GRAS AND CASINO PARTY

MaryScott Calicutt and Carder Shackelford

Jane Brown and David Dossett

Monica Braun and Brittany Orr

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Marianne Clendenen and Derick Garner

Phylicia Ward and Peyton Carroll

Casey and Lindsey Cade

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Brooke Warren and Christian Nelius

Sydney Knose, Emmaline Carrick and Alex Driver

Suzanne Land and Jake Brown

Jasmine Boyd and Burton Bridges

Sarah Gano, Abby Heard, Emily Palmer and Kendall Jones

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Grand Krewe of Luxor Coronation

Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation

Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation

Grand Krewe of Phoenix Coronation

Guests at the Grand Krewe of Luxor’s Coronation took a “Cruise on the Nile,” the theme for the event that marked the 10th anniversary of Carnival Memphis’ newest krewe. A statue of the head of Horus, the ancient Egyptian god and the symbol of Luxor, sat in the middle of the Esplanade Memphis lobby. After they entered, each partygoer was presented with a commemorative glass etched with an image of Horus. Inside the ballroom, the tables were topped with golden cloths and pyramids. Associate executive director of AutoZone Liberty Bowl, Harold Graeter, served as emcee. Keith Renard, who worked for years as the official photographer for Carnival events, was named 2015 king. He commented that after years of documenting the regal events, he never imagined he would sit on one of the thrones. After the program concluded, in a show of enthusiasm, Renard donned a Pharaoh’s headdress of black and gold and hit the stage with Robin Enkey, a visiting queen of the Krewe of Centaur from Shreveport, La. Before the party ended, Queen Mace Gearhardt and the Luxor duchesses joined the King Beez onstage and danced to the beat of “Proud Mary.”

The krewe known for its youthful exuberance, the Grand Krewe of Ptolemy, held its Coronation ball at the University Club of Memphis. After the reading of proclamations by city officials, Carnival Memphis King John Bobango made comments. The 2015 Carnival Memphis queen, Lockie Dearman, an Ole Miss student home for spring break, was on hand to greet her subjects. After recognizing members of royalty from other krewes, this year’s Ptolemy duchesses were presented, and the Ptolemy king and queen were crowned. “Ptolemy has so many heroes,” says Queen Tiffany Brimhall. “You support each other through everything.” King Oliver Scoggin was crowned the 15th king. Erin Hatley, 2011 Miss Tennessee and a friend of the queen’s, sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” before the band Super 5 took the stage.

The 2015 Coronation of the Grand Krewe of Sphinx marked its platinum (70th) anniversary. As guests approached the entrance to Chickasaw Country Club, the sound of a bagpipe rang throughout the night air. The theme of the evening, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Services,” reflected the Scottish and Irish heritage of Queen Tiaa LXX Annie Taylor. The bagpiper led the presentation procession, and was followed by Grand Duchess Judy Jones, as well duchesses Laura Alexander-Dodds, Leslie Darr, Carol Saunders, Suzanne Shelton and Keri Taylor, the queen’s daughter-in-law. Queen Taylor was flanked by the “Queen’s Guards,” including James and William Taylor, her sons along with pages Eleanor Grace Flynn and Ann Charlotte Jones. During the queen’s comments, she thanked her sister Gillian Spokes for making the trip from England to attend the Coronation. King Horus LXX Bob Bryant ended his speech with a nod toward the theme, saying “The name’s Bond, James Bond.” Suzanne Shelton, 2011 Sphinx Queen, received a prestigious award that honored her commitment to demonstrating the true spirit of Carnival Memphis

Announcing the Grand Krewe of Phoenix’s 2015 Coronation theme, a lighted grand marque read “Give My Regards to Broadway” and hung in the atrium of the Crescent Center. Beneath the sign, two empty thrones sat waiting for the king and queen. Tables scattered around the area were topped with playbills and other theater related items, such as ribbons printed with music scores and miniature New York street signs. Represent-atives of Sheriff Bill Oldham, Mayor Mark Luttrell and Mayor A C Wharton Jr. presented proclamations. Germantown Mayor, Mike Palazzolo, attended the affair and personally delivered his proclamation. Rex Carnival 2015 King John Bobango made opening remarks and passed the mike to the Phoenix Chairman Marena McDonald who introduced members of the royal court. Phoenix King Joe Brandenburg’s comments were laced with Broadway references as he and Phoenix Queen Sylvia Cox commanded the party. Guests enjoyed a buffet of heavy hors d’oeuvres catered by the Crescent Club that consisted of chef’s choice dishes. Some of the savory selections of Chef Harvey Field included shrimp and grits, meatballs in a mango barbecue sauce and hot and cold pasta dishes. The Dantones kept the crowd on its feet with toe-tapping tunes.

Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Oliver Scoggin and Tiffany Brimhall

Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Suzanne Shelton and Judy Jones Keith Renard and Mace Gearhardt

Harold and Dawn Graeter with Wanda and John Barzizza

Marjorie Porter, Michelle Heck and Joe Goldkamp

Annie Taylor and Kim Flynn

David and Mace Gearhardt with Brad Dantone

Liz Anne Bowden, Carol Saunders and Jerry Ward

Joe Brandenburg, Sylvia Cox, Jane VentersDike, Deana Sanford and Marena McDonald

Dinner on Stage

The Bodine School held its 2015 Auction: Beyond Words, an event the 45-year-old school has hosted for more than 10 years, and which draws in quite the crowd. “Half of the people here don’t even have kids who are enrolled in our school. They’re just passionate about our mission,” Josh Clark, head of the school, said. Every year close to 400 supporters attend the auction, which this year offered up 460 items. The school presented a weekend in Telluride, a fully loaded luxury coach for a weekend away, and a FedEx flight simulator experience. In addition, the corn hole game raffle was a popular feature during the event. The evening’s festivities were held at Minglewood Hall and included drinks and nibbles as well as entertainment. “This is all to raise awareness for people with dyslexia and the differences associated with it and, more importantly, the gifts of our students who see the world in a different way,” Clark commented. The Bodine School in Germantown is the only school in the Mid-South solely dedicated to teaching children with dyslexia and related reading differences.

For the last six years, Memphian Joe Barnes has invited 400 of his closest friends to come drink beer with him. This year close to that many took him up on his offer and met him at the Pink Palace Family of Museums. Not only did they have the opportunity to try a wide variety of homebrews and craft beers prepared and served by local breweries and home brewers, but they also did it for reasons other than painting the town. The sixth annual Brew Movement Against Multiple Sclerosis was a beer-tasting event that raised funds for the Mid South Chapter of the National MS Society. “MS affects 9,000 people in the MidSouth alone. It’s the second most common cause of central nervous system disorders in adults besides auto accidents,” Barnes said. “I felt like I needed to do more.” With plastic cups in hands, beer lovers and friends of the organization shuffled from table to table through the museum tasting the creative concoctions and stopping off at the various food stations with music by The Tinglers serving as additional entertainment. “The Memphis beer community is one of the friendliest groups I’ve ever known,” Barnes remarked. “We like to say, ‘Fighting MS one beer at a time.’”

The stage of the “South’s Finest Theater” was once half the size and expanded to 50-feet deep in 1996 to bring “The Phantom of the Opera” to Memphis. In the mid-20th century, the “Old Lady” served as a Malco movie theater. These were just a few of the stories guests were regaled by the larger than life Pat Halloran as he took a few dozen special guests on a private tour of The Orpheum Theater. The tour led by the theater’s president and CEO was part of the package for the special Dinner on Stage event, a fund-raiser offered throughout the year for a limited number of takers. Halloran, who is retiring this year, led guests into the grand theater where they watched two short films, one telling the Broadway-worthy history of the theater and one describing its future. The theater has nearly completed its $14.5 million expansion, a Centre for Performing Arts & Education, on which Halloran plans on focusing his attention. The new 39,000 square-foot space, which features classrooms, a rehearsal hall, a stage with a 356-seat theater, will offer master classes, lectures, workshops for students and educators, technical training, and other forms of outreach.

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Duck Wake Felicia Willett, owner and chef of downtown Felicia Suzanne’s restaurant, treated some local foodies to a night of waterfowl wonder at Duck Wake, an event designed to commiserate the end of duck hunting season in the Mid-South. For $90 attendees could sip on bourbon cocktails and nibble on duck infused hors d’oeuvres, bid on wines donated by Duckhorn® Vineyard and other sporting packages including weekend hunts, followed by the main draw for many – a three-course meal of duck tribute dishes paired with wine. Proceeds from the auction go to benefit Ducks Unlimited, a 75year-old organization that supports wetlands and waterfowl conservation. Bill Benton, a duck hunter, donated a day hunt on his 120-acre farm Wildwood Hunting Club in Arkansas for the silent auction. “It’s a fun deal to donate,” he remarked. Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Robert and Marion Milner

Josh Clark and Hadley Arnold

Russ Woods and Bill Moss

Elizabeth and Gregg Smithers Mark and Sonia Miller with Felicia Willett and Grant Adams

Poornima and Sridhar Sunkara

Georgia Shaw, Paige Smith and Kelly Bridgforth

Evan Comeaux and Laura Pate

Jimmie, Beth and Diane James

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Brew Movement Against Multiple Sclerosis

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Bodine School Auction

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Amy and Dennis McGivern

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HANDS OF HOPE AUCTION PARTY

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Hands of Hope Auction Party Bidding for the Good of Families

W Madeline Ratcliff and Margaret Tronsor

Nick Gant and Christine Chambers

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hat started out as a small sit-down dinner among a large group of friends has now grown to a 500-guest event and has raised close to $120,000 last year. The annual Hands of Hope Auction Party is an event held each year to raise funds for The Exchange Club Family Center of Memphis. “It started small. It’s not small anymore,” Laura Lee Jones, event co-chair, said. With more than a 15-year-long history, the Hands of Hope Auction Party has experienced many homes, from The Columns to the Hilton Memphis, and, this year, supporters of the event migrated for the first time to Midtown to one of Memphis’ premier addresses – The University Club on Central. More than 500 men and women dressed in cocktail attire packed in the club to compete for such hot items as a David Yurman cuff from Mednikow and a private dinner for 12 prepared by some of Memphis’ favorite chefs, Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman. Magi and Charvey Mac provided the evening’s musical entertainment with Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton Jr. serving as honorary co-chairs. Harold Graeter emceed the party and Ron Childers of WMC-TV offered his auctioneering expertise. “They really raised the bar this year. We are overwhelmed by the response,” Jones, who chaired with her husband Troy Jones, noted. Marcy Faber Tashie, an annual regular, was sure to attend this year. “I love The Exchange Club. I think it’s an awesome place that helps so many,” she remarked. The Exchange Club Family Center, which celebrates 30 years this year, provides programs, services and advocacy for those who experience domestic violence. Their mission is to help children and adults affected by child abuse, family violence, or traumatic family transitions, understand these behaviors and gain the support they need to cope with difficult family situations. Their programs are intended to improve life skills, help children and adults learn to modify behaviors, improve self-esteem and deal with anger. “Their slogan is to break the cycle of child abuse and domestic violence,” Jones explains. “We are really thrilled we are growing because the more money we raise the more The Exchange Club can help break that cycle.” Every month close to 650 cases of child abuse or neglect are reported in Shelby County. In 2012, The Exchange Club served more than 5,500 clients and family members.

Garrett Mack and Amber Puryear

Julia and Rush O’Keefe

Story by Lesley Young Photos by Daniel Frederick See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP LuJaclyn and Todd Richardson

Ginger and John Warmath

Elin Irvin and Luke Yancy

Jake and Kate Van Namen with Tara and Clay Holder

David and Chrissie Tashie

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EVENT HANDS OF HOPE AUCTION PARTY M AY 2 015

Kim Weiss and Catherine Johnston

Jessica and Tim Wilson

Jessie Davis and Edie Miller

Kara and Paul G. Smith

Angela and Chris Watson

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Ashley Leary and Amy Gallimore

Mary Kate and Bill Brandon

Leslie Herington and Whitney Plumpton

Suzanne New and Katie Savage

Marcy Tashie and J. J. McIntyre

Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton Jr.

EVENT HANDS OF HOPE AUCTION PARTY M AY 2 015

Caroline and Matt Massey with Emily and Andrew Fisher

Savannah Duncan, Ashleigh Crawford and Lauren Ervin

Hallie and Nick Peay

Trey Jones and Laura Lee

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Lauren and Matthew Gant

Ron Cribb, Lauren Stimac and Bob Weiss

Sherry Brooks and Jackie McKinley

Kemba Ford and Oona Mitchell

Mandy Briggs, Courtney Frazee and Courtney Davis

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Onsite III “This Light of Ours” Brooks Museum of Art Members Opening Event

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“This Light of Ours: Activists Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement” opened at the Brooks of Museum of Art. At the Members Opening Event, all Brooks members and distinguished guests were invited to get a first look at the exhibition, mingle and enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres. In addition to Brooks members, more than 50 religious leaders in Memphis’ African American community were invited to attend. The exhibition features 157 black-and-white photographs taken primarily in the South between 1963 and 1968 by artists such as Bob Adelman, George Ballis, Bob Fitch, Bob Fletcher, Matt Herron, David Prince, Herbert Randall, Maria Varela, and Tamio Wakayama. This fascinating exhibition ends May 10, 2015. Story Submitted Photos Courtesy of the Brooks Museum of Art

Whiskey, Wines & Chocolates Memphis Botanic Garden had the perfect antidote for cold weather blues – their annual Whiskey, Wines & Chocolates event. Featuring the sumptuous creations of chocolatier Chef Phillip Ashley Rix paired with complimenting wines and whiskeys and taking place right before Valentines Day, this event was a sweet way to celebrate with loved ones and support a great local nonprofit. Decadent pairings included bourbon mousse with vanilla fleur de sel with a choice of Clyde May’s Alabama Whiskey or Prichard’s Fudge Brownie Cream Liqueur. There was also strawberry Brie white chocolates with Sundial Chardonnay, to name only a few of the many selections. Whole Foods and Just for Lunch provided a buffet of light snacks for attendees to enjoy between bites of chocolate. All proceeds benefited the Memphis Botanic Garden. Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

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Memphis Fashion Week Saddle Creek Fashion Fund Party One medium that is often overlooked in Memphis is fashion. A group of supporters have decided to step in and put fashion back on the map, rallying around local designers and showing their support through showcasing the designers’ work and offering scholarship money to study fashion. Memphis Fashion Week (MFW) was born, and it celebrated its fourth annual week of fashion events, including the Saddle Creek Fashion Fund Party. The party, which was located inside the former J. Jill building at the Shops of Saddle Creek, featured one of two runways shows offered during the weeklong festivities. All proceeds from Thursday’s party went to benefit The Memphis Fashion Fund, created to support up-and-coming designers through the Emerging Memphis Designers Project (EMDP). EMDP also funds a scholarship for Memphis College of Art’s new fashion courses and allows local designers to submit their creations to MFW for a chance to be featured in the fashion week runway shows. “We want to encourage the growth and education of the fashion industry in Memphis,” MFW director Abby Phillips said. Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Phillip Ashley Rix with Scott and Carolyn McCormick André C. and Monica Wharton

Memphis Fashion Week VIP Preview Party Memphis Fashion Week VIP holders, designers, sponsors models and backstage crew kicked off one of Memphis’ most creative and chic events, Memphis Fashion Week (MFW), with a VIP Preview Party. This industry event showcased Emerging Memphis Designer Project (EMDP) designers as well as gave Memphians a chance to show off their eclectic styles as they supported a program that cultivates regional and local fashion through designers, photographers, models and boutiques. Held at Jay Etkin Gallery, Preview Party guests sipped on cocktails devised by the libationbrilliance of Alchemy Memphis, who served up specials like the Hound Dog, which mixed W.L. Weller Special Reserve Bourbon Whiskey with fresh peach, mint, ginger and lemon into one refreshing drink. Freeze models wore the original designs of EMDP designers and accessorized those looks with cool eyewear from Eclectic Eye. Guests mingled and excitedly chatted with Abby Phillips, MFW director, to try and gleam some insight into what to expect from the upcoming runway shows that weekend. MFW ticketholders got their fix as they took in all the exciting fashion glory at the EMPD runway show at Memphis College of Art that Friday and the Featured Designers Show runway show at the Memphis Zoo that Saturday. It is a safe bet to say, everyone is ready for the fun of the 2016 MFW. Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Danesha Ward and Alyssa Moore Charles Cliett and Kierra Tucker

Johnnie R. Turner, TC Heard, Gwen Glover, Chester Collins, Ed Smith, Robert Morry and Grace Austin Meacham

Maggie Dandridge and Eddie Smith

Emily Bridges and Rachel Cupo

Alex Middleton and Scott Ward

Boris and Madison Cehajic

Ali Boone and Abby Phillips

Grace Askew and Christina Vranich

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Onsite IV Junior Achievement Bowl-A-Thon

Memphis Knights Big Band

Think Pink Memphis Luncheon, Auction, and Fashion Show

The atmosphere was festive with balloon decorations, disco lighting and door prizes as bowling alleys across the city filled for the Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South’s 30th annual “Bowlin’ on the River” Bowl-AThon. This year’s fund-raiser for Junior Achievement included over 500 teams of more than 2,500 individuals bowling at Billy Hardwick’s All Stars Lanes, FunQuest, Winchester Bowl and Strike Zone Bowling Lanes. To participate, each bowler was requested to secure a minimum of $70 contributions or donations. Many bowlers were corporate-sponsored, while others raised their funds individually. This year’s participating companies included the City of Memphis, FedEx, First Tennessee, International Paper, Memphis Light, Gas and Water, and employees of the Shelby County Trustees Office, to name just a few. First Tennessee and Power & Tel were the event’s major sponsors. Overall, more than $300,000 was raised for Junior Achievment. Junior Achievement teaches children how business works in order to improve the quality of their lives.

Whether the crowd was doing the jitterbug on the dance floor, or taking a breather, toes were tapping to nostalgic tunes as the Memphis Knights Big Band performed at Memphis Botanic Garden. This 19-piece band, comprised of saxophones, trombones, trumpets and a rhythm section, performed with vocalist T. J. Graham. For two hours, tunes from the past, filled Hardin Hall. The tunes included Glenn Miller standards, as well as songs by Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Buddy Rich. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Botanic Garden’s education and horticulture programs. With mellow sounds ranging from swing to jazz to tunes with a Latin beat, couples danced the Fox Trot, the Tango and Swing. Most of the participants were seniors who recalled the music from their younger days, but there was a sprinkling of the 40-and-younger set who showed a sincere appreciation for the rhythm and romance of ballroom dancing. Memphis Knights Big Band performs at the Memphis Botanic Garden, usually every other month, on the first Monday. Their next gig at the Garden is scheduled for May 4.

Over 275 guests were “thinking pink” at the 7th annual Think Pink Memphis Luncheon, Auction, and Fashion Show at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis. Hosted by the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity, the event supports the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation, which promotes breast cancer awareness and education. Guests were able to place bids through their mobile devices on over 200 auction items. The fashion show models were all breast cancer survivors and showcased outfits styled by local boutiques such as Past & Presents, On a Whim and Peridot. Mistress of Ceremonies and Memphis radio personality, Karen Perrin, told each of the models’ stories as they walked the runway, escorted by male firefighters of Pink Heals Memphis. The guest speaker was author and ovarian cancer survivor Tracy Maxwell. The 2015 honoree was Anita Vaughn, CEO and administrator of Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. The Memphis Alumnae chapter chose to honor Vaughn not only for her outstanding work at Baptist, but also for her dedication to women’s health issues including breast cancer awareness and prevention. The chapter will be donating to the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation in Vaughn’s honor.

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

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Story Submitted Photos by Katie Antes and Kristin Dickerson

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Susan Durham and Mary Anne Tubbs Beth Turner and Anita Vaughn

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Jim Browning, Lety Branum, Alexa Branum and Paul Rhodes

Paige Campbell and Emily Erwin Kristen Hehn and Rebecca DeRousse

Jermaine White Tucker and Sarah Anderson

Hallie Hogan, Alison Welch, Chelsea Surrett and Ceciel Halpern

Cindy McRae, Woodson McRae and Khristy Savage

Kristen Davis, Sophia Dickerson and Kristin Dickerson

Quinn Thompson-Slaughter, Phyllis Slaughter and Bathsheba Sams

AFTER HOURS

After Hours A photo collage of the latest business happenings

The Glenmary at Evergreen â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spring Flingâ&#x20AC;?

Jeffrey Hanover

Leo Edwards and Eva Edwards

Thelma Walton and Addie Harris

Ruby Williamson and Keith Williamson

M.H. Walls and Carolyn Dougherty

Troy Simpson and Joy Simpson

Eclectic Eye Ron Olson Art Opening Reception

Michael Weinberg with Vicki and Ron Olson and Robbie Johnson Weinberg

Betty Smith and Jessica Olson

Ryan Davis and Sara Scott

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Onsite V Polar Bear Plunge & Chili Cook-Off

Immaculate Conception Cathedral School Black & White Masquerade

Over 200 brave souls took a dip into the cold Mississippi River to help raise funds for the Special Olympics Greater Memphis. The Polar Bear Plunge & Chili Cook-Off is an annual Memphis tradition, the plunge is now in its 16th year and the chili cook-off in its ninth year, and locals revel in the chance to show of their wackiest costumes as they jump into the river. With just $50 worth of pledges, plungers earn the chance to participate in the plunge and the “bragging rights over all the people that could not bear it.” Thankfully, participators and onlookers had plenty of chili to keep them warm before the big jump. Teams like Serial Griller Chili Cookers; Blood, Sweat and Beef; Wild Cat Chili; Chili Knights and many more served up every kind of chili imaginable for the chance to win the People’s Choice Award and the title of top red chili. There was also a heated battle for top salsa. Brodee Scott of 101.9 KISS FM emceed the event and also took the plunge himself. Costumes were judged and the winners took home the coveted golden plunger award. Over $105,000 was raised for Special Olympics Greater Memphis.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral School (ICCS) held its annual Black & White Masquerade, formerly the Mardi Gras Ball, on the grounds of the school. Guests were bedecked in black and white with feathers and plumes aplenty and masks of all varieties. Approximately 400 people attended to enjoy the sounds of Jamie Baker & the VIPs, Creole cooking from Chef Anthony Terrell and bidding on a range of silent auction items including fine art, high-end leather goods, antiques and designer fragrances. Ron Childers of WMC-TV, has hosted ICCS’s live auction for close to a decade and returned this year once again to offer his auctioneer skills, accompanied by his wife Joyce Peterson. Gold event sponsors were Crone & McEvoy Attorneys and Christian Brothers University. Silver sponsors included Midtown Eye Care, ANF Architects, Horne & Wells Attorneys, and Parker School Uniforms, with the bar sponsored by AS Barboro and Rice Law. Story Submitted Photos by ICCS Staff

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Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

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Sherrie Clem, Lynn Hubbard and Patricia England

Lee McBee, Scott Donnelly, Troy Fink and Ella McBee

Shiloh Boswell and Courtney Wise

Kimberly and Jason Lind

Helen Stearnes, Carol Dennis and Allyson Ellis

Jennifer Gerstner, Michelle Ryan and Jodi Barron

Keith and Robin Perry

Damon Meek and Cory Smith

Nancy Taylor

Quaneshia Farris and Gregory Pearson

Kathleen Boatwright, Clare Sauser, Kaitlyn Greenwood and Allison McNabb

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Red Shoe Gala

RED SHOE GALA

Under the Big Top

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Michael and Lane Doyle

Lindsay Marter and Chris Pecou

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eople were kicking up their heels in red stilettos, red pumps, red platforms, and even red high top Converse tennis shoes at the Red Shoe Gala benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis. The event, held at The Columns at One Commerce Square, was presented by Century Management/McDonald’s. Approximately 350 guests turned out for this chic affair in black tie attire and their choice of red footwear. Adding to the circus theme of the gala, aerial acrobats and other contortionists from Beyond Wings performed their circus antics. Dozens of local restaurants and shops were at the event showcasing their signature food, drinks and desserts throughout the evening. Café Society served bacon-wrapped shrimp with a horseradish sauce, Lynchburg Legends Bar & Grill offered meatball sliders, and Paradox Catering dished up shawarma spiced-beef with roasted cauliflower purée beef. For a taste of something sweet, Kooky Canuck hosted a make-your-own S’mores station and Frost Bake Shop offered a variety of cakes and cupcakes. Local chocolatier, Chef Phillip Ashley Rix of Phillip Ashley Chocolates was on hand with his specialty chocolates, serving flavors of pomegranate caramel with black lava salt and blood orange pomegranate grappa with white chocolate. Each delectable bite was made that much more decadent with a custom-designed motif on top featuring, what else — red high-heeled shoes. Memphis Soul Revue provided the evening’s musical entertainment as guests strolled among the tables showcasing live and silent auction items. This year the gala utilized ClickBid Mobile Bidding, a silent auction bidding service that enabled guests to track the bidding process through their cell phones. Jeff Morris served as auctioneer for the live auction portion of the event. Playing to the current locavore trend, one of the live auction items was a unique Farm to Fork — All Local Dining Experience for 14 guests, offered a meal prepared by Ryan Jennings of Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen executive chef and Chef Michael Hanna of Hanna Farm with designer chocolates by Chef Rix and locally brewed beer by High Cotton Brewery Co. During the evening, Ronald McDonald House® presented Fred Tillman with the inaugural Red Shoe Award. Tillman, a local McDonald’s owner and operator and President of Century Management, was recognized for his contributions toward improving the health and wellbeing of children in the Mid-South. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the Red Shoe Award than Fred Tillman,” Caron Byrd, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis, said. “Fred has a huge heart for the Memphis community. Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis is one of many organizations fortunate to call Fred Tillman a friend and supporter. As a founder, Fred was a member of the team that worked tirelessly to ensure that the dream of this organization became a reality. More than 20 years later, Fred is still involved and supportive of the mission.” Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis mission is to provide support services and a “home-away-from-home” for St. Jude families and their children receiving treatment for cancer and other catastrophic childhood illnesses at no cost. Since opening its doors in 1991, Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis has provided a home for more than 8,300 children from nearly every state and 45 countries. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

John, Kacy and Skylynn Parie

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Patrick Lantrip

Tsedey Betru and Tavarski Hughes

Bonny and Rob Harrison

Elizabeth and Preston Gordon

Frazer and Demetra Windless

Jon and Kim Vance with Allison and Greg Gilbert

Jonathan and Tricia Tweel

EVENT RED SHOE GALA Mike Rodgers and Casey Porter

Rosemary and Sandy Martinez

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Louise and Clark Barousse

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Jessica Ginn and Paul Stanley

Irene and Ron Ayotte

EVENT RED SHOE GALA

Ann and Will King

Genny Pate and Ginny Renfroe

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Kristina York and Alan Crenshaw

Roger and Judith Stone

Shanelle Ecrette and Jennifer Pignolet

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Janice and Marvin Tolbert

Katie and Rob Wiles

Myles Parma and Haley West

John and Nery Roach

Jessica Clarke and Aquinas Early

Ceil Walker and Mike Templeton

EVENT RED SHOE GALA Jacqui Green and Lizzie Breaux

Vladimir Guerreo and Rebecca Ballin

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Katie and Andrew Hooser

Shandra Gillespie

Josh Langston and Allison Gebhardt RSVP

Jennifer Routh and Joelle Pittman

Ryan and Liz McKee

Tracy and Jemal Williams

Keating and Patrick Lowery

Pam Davis

Haley Bastien and Alexis Gregg

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55 Pressure unit

57 Impressionist painter

59 Billet

62 Shedder, like a reptile

65 Dunking cookies

66 Grassy plain

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74 Goddess of the dawn

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64 69

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9 Military post

10 Car rental agency 11 Molder

13 Go boating 14 Talon

20 Sounds

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24 Made small waves 26 Toothbrush brand

27 Popeʼs governing organization 28 Opposite of ally 30 Guyʼs woman

36 Rend 38 Net

42 Womanʼs partner 43 Monarchial

46 Movie treat 49 Hurries

51 North American country abbr. 53 Tries to seduce 56 Pixies

58 Billy or nanny

59 Little Mermaidʼs love 60 Roman emperor

61 Walk back and forth 63 English noble 64 Italian capital 65 Kimono sash 67 Cow speak

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

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47 51

41 Easier

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39 Converse

52 Gauze

37 Animal foot

50 Bog

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Edited by Ruth Cassin

R E M S E R I F A R E N A T I E I N O L A R G N D I G E R P A W S I M P L E P A L B U N E T S I D E G A M P M O P A M P A S C O T T E O S

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By Dennis Phillippi

pass, there’s ten plays where a quarterback hands the ball to a running back who immediately falls down. It’s dull. Understand, I am a huge sports fan. Not a day goes by that I don’t watch at least part of some sports contest. Last night alone I watched a baseball game in which I had no rooting interest, followed by my standard hour of SportsCenter. Last weekend, I probably watched a dozen or more hours of the Masters. It’s not unusual for me to sit through a tennis match

In the interest of full disclosure, I have never been much of a college football fan, largely because my college, the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, didn’t have a foot ball program until recently, a good three decades after I spent my one disappointing year there. where I can’t identify either player or sit complacently staring at NASCAR, actively not wanting anyone to wreck. I am a sports fan. But the older I get, the less interested I am in pro-football. In the interest of full disclosure, I have never been much of a college football fan, largely because my college, the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, didn’t have a football program until recently, a good three decades after I spent my one disappointing year there. UNCC, by the way, is the fighting 49ers, named for, I swear this is true, the highway that runs in front of the school, Highway 49. My wife graduated from Tennessee so I suppose I’ve been a little bit of a UT fan by marriage, but for the most part college football hasn’t ever really caught my interest. I follow it because I live here, and there are times when, if you can’t talk SEC

football, you will be considered at best, weak, and at worst, a communist. In recent years, my biggest issues with the NFL haven’t even been the product they put on the field, it’s what it brings about off the field. For some reason, it seems that if you give already aggressive, violence prone young men an endless supply of food and “supplements” while encouraging them to nurture their most savage inclinations at work, then they might tend to carry some of that home with them. Or to nightclubs. Or to parking lots. There have been far too may incidents of football players assaulting their spouses, shooting drinking companions, and driving under the influence of every imaginable substance for me to innumerate here. Domestic assault has become such an epidemic that the league has appointed someone whose entire job is looking into allegations and trying to institute some kind of systemic changes that will discourage players from beating their spouses. It has become so endemic that teams now waive a player who is even accused of domestic assault because they are automatically presumed guilty. The same is true of players arrested for driving under the influence or drug possession. It is so common that teams err on the side of assuming that since virtually every player accused turns out to be guilty, this guy must be too. There are, of course, off the field issues like this in all sports, but it is far more pervasive in the NFL. It is a sport founded on the simple principal that we all enjoy seeing giants hurt one another. When I was younger, I enjoyed seeing massive collisions in football as much as anyone, but at my age, when I see two or more guys slam into one another, all I can think of is what those guys are going to feel like when they’re in their fifties. I hobble around and make all kinds of weird noises when I have to get out of a chair, and no 350-pound guy has ever landed on my head. It takes a lot for an American male to admit that he doesn’t love football, but here’s the weird part – like everyone else – I’ll watch it come fall. Why? Peer pressure? Fear of being labeled unmanly? Well…yeah. Plus, it’s the only sport on Sunday afternoons in the fall.

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arlier today, while I was doing things other than writing my long-overdue column, I tuned into ESPN and watched as former New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez was convicted on all charges of murdering someone who considered himself a friend of Hernandez. The various analysts were doing the usual running around in circles talking about how clearly guilty he was and how he will still have to face another trial on a completely different murder and, of course, how all of this will affect the Patriots upcoming season. I’m not making that up. I make up stuff in this column all the time, but, despite the fact that Hernandez was dismissed from the team when he, you know, killed someone, the anchors at the Mothership took this opportunity to discuss the beleaguered secondary of the New England Patriots. This is in mid-April, months before anyone will be strapping on a helmet. At the risk of sounding unAmerican, I find that I am becoming more and more disenchanted with professional football. Of all of the things that I have said in this space over the years, that one is very likely the most polarizing one yet. Football, as demonstrated by the discussion earlier today, is the central preoccupation of the sports world. The NBA play-offs will be ongoing by the time you read this, baseball season has just started, even the NHL play-offs merit some discussion, but the sports world will take any opening to report on the NFL. As a spectator, I have found football increasingly dull. Not that I want more violence, I’m tired of that too. It’s the game itself that is slow. Every fortyfive seconds or so we’re treated to about six seconds of something actually happening, and, chances are, that’s going to be a short gain running play. Statistically there are very few big plays in a game, and the rest of the time it’s two sets of overweight guys shoving each other while one guy runs twelve feet, if he’s lucky. For every time Aaron Rodgers throws a thirty-yard

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THIRD AND BORING

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Memphis Rock ‘N’ Roll!

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1960s

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hristopher Branford “Chris” Bell (January 12, 1951-December 27, 1978) was an American singer, songwriter and guitarist born in Memphis, Tennessee. Along with Alex Chilton, he led the power pop band Big Star, which recorded albums during the early 1970s. Bell left the group after Big Star’s first album. A young Bell is pictured here with another rock ‘n’ roll mover and shaker DJ George Klein of WHBQ-AM. Klein was Elvis Presley’s very good childhood friend up until the King’s death in 1977. WHBQ was the first station to play a recording by Presley when the station gave airtime to his hit “That’s Alright Mama” in 1954. If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Rachel Warren at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.