RSVP Magazine October 2014 by RSVP Magazine

October 2014

Art on Tap Spirit of SRVS Paw Prints Party Zoo Rendezvous The Great Gatsby Gala Q&A with Dr. David Rudd

CONTENTS

Contents October 201 4

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 President of LeMoyne-Owen College, Johnnie B. Watson meets up with RSVP and reminisces about his 1956 Dodge, Dinah Washington and the proudest moment of his life.

Zoo Rendezvous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Flappers and gangsters flocked to the Memphis Zoo for its biggest event of the year as the zoo was transformed into a scene out of the Roaring Twenties. It was the cat’s meow!

24 THE GREAT GATSBY GALA Lee Dillard and Loretta Snipes

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 & 22 This duo is opening a new storefront that allows Memphians to get involved in their sustainable mission work in Africa. He is spreading Memphis flavor across the planet through film. StreetSeens highlight Britney Lee Christie and Lacey Pease Stluka along with Jonathan Pekar.

ZOO RENDEZVOUS Lea and Robert Carr

The Great Gatsby Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 O C T O B E R 2 0 14

The American Cancer Society® held its Jazz Age soirée at the opulent Columns of One Commerce Square.

Ambassador Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 David Hogan Renowned writer, filmmaker and music video maestro David Hogan sits down and chats with Eugene Pidgeon.

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Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Q&A with Dr. David Rudd, who recently took the helm as the 12th President of the University of Memphis.

46 SPIRIT OF SRVS Sara Stewart and Collins Mikell

Paw Prints Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 It didn’t matter if your friends were furry, four-legged or feathered at Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County’s annual benefit held at Woodland Hills.

ART ON TAP Ted and Lisa Mellinger

Sprit of SRVS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 The Hilton Memphis was home to the 16th annual Sprit of SRVS fund-raiser benefiting SRVS.

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52, 53, 60, 61 & 62 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

Art on Tap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Do you like landscapes with your lagers, abstracts with your ales or perhaps some Belle Époque with your brews? If so, then the Dixon Gallery & Garden’s annual fund-raiser was the place for you.

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

38 PAW PRINTS PARTY Ramona Rork and Anne Davis

Travel Insurance If you were leaving Memphis and you didn’t think you would ever make it back, what Memphis activities would you do before you left? These and other humorous musings from RSVP funny man, Dennis Phillippi

Cover Photo Tori and Daniel Roberson at The Great Gatsby Gala Photo by Don Perry

36 VOX POPULAR Dr. David Rudd

Volume XX

Number I

October 201 4 PUBLISHER

Roy Haithcock EDITOR

R achel Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS

Patrick L antrip Don Perry Steve Roberts O C T O B E R 2 0 14

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Chris Pugh Robin Morgan ACCOUNTING

Ruth Cassin EDITORIAL INTERN

Patrick L antrip

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6 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

R SV P S TA F F

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the Editor

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ctober is upon us! Down here in the sticky hot South we are sending up some hope that we will actually get a full season of autumn weather instead of speeding from hot to frozen. October fourth is World Animal Day, and as I am typing this one of our lovely office cats is curled up against my arm. After we were blessed with our two kitties, we here at RSVP wonder how we ever made it without them. They love us unconditionally. They make us smile and laugh. They lift office spirits. They warm our souls after a hard day. There is nothing more perfect than the love of an animal. World Animal Day is a day where we are reminded to celebrate animal life in all forms as well as celebrate our human relationships with the animal kingdom in all the ways that animals and humans lean on each other for support. A few weeks ago, I fostered some kittens that someone had abandoned by our office with their sick mama. Unfortunately, the kittens did not make it. It was heartbreaking, but I find some comfort in the belief they are now living in a cat paradise that looks like an episode of “Too Cute.” The happy news is that the mama cat was adopted by our kind office neighbor and is gaining strength and living a happy cat life full of love and safety. Despite the sadness over the loss of the kittens, it is heartening to know that one made it to the happy home she always deserved. The entire experience reminded me of how much we humans depend upon our furry counterparts. Animals are our rocks. At RSVP, we certainly believe so. I want to thank the Humane Society of Memphis, Utopia Animal Hospital and the Animal Emergency Center on Summer Avenue for getting me through the tough times with gentle care and support. I couldn’t have done anything without you guys! I ask you to give all your pets some extra lovin’ this month and watch out for the others that need some love.

Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com

RSVP’s resident mousers, Luna and Sunshine

SIGNATURE MEMPHIS

Johnnie B. Watson President, LeMoyne-Owen College

Biggest Pet Peeve: Lazy people.

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Hometown: Memphis, Tennessee. First Car You Drove: 1956 Dodge. Your Best Quality: My personality. Favorite Place to Travel: New York. Best Dish You Cook: Grilled catfish. Best Memphis Hangout: Too old to hang out. Place You Go to Think: My second floor study. Something You’ll Never Live Down: I’ll never tell. Best Gift You Ever Received: The birth of my son. One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: Retirement. The Highlight of Your Day: Interacting with students. Who Inspires You: My high school principal, Blair T. Hunt. Favorite Southern Idiom: “Ain’t go’ let nobody turn me round.” Who Would Play You in a Movie: Jerome Heard (Former Mr. LOC). Best Advice You Ever Got: Give to the world the best that you have. Favorite Song: “What a Diff’rence a Day Makes!” by Dinah Washington. Proudest Moment of Your Life: August 16, 2006, when I became President of my Alma Mater.

Photo by Steve Roberts

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Your Most Annoying Habit: None.

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EVENT

Zoo Rendezvous

ZOO RENDEZVOUS

“The Great Catsby”

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Don and Karen Blane

Dr. Sarah Richie and Dr. Zsila Sadighi

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ne of the season’s largest parties, Zoo Rendezvous, adopted the theme of “The Great Catsby” this year, and Memphians showed up in full force dressed to the nines in 1920s period costumes. Presented by Platinum Partner, IBERIABANK, Zoo Rendezvous transported over 3,000 guests to the Roaring Twenties with Jazz Age decorations and genuine touches like champagne and martinis. With more than 80 different restaurants located throughout the zoo, attendees truly got a taste of the Mid-South. Let’s just say no one went hungry that evening. Laura Doty, communication specialist at the Memphis Zoo, said, “Zoo Rendezvous is the largest single night fund-raiser. The event spotlights not only what a great place the Memphis Zoo is but also the great food and drinks that our region has to offer. It really showcases the Mid-South.” Partygoers agreed with Doty on the great food and drinks aspect as they happily dug into the varied abundance of local food and libations. Tables were scattered between the food stations, offering guests relief from their food journey. Many guests, though, mastered the art of walking and eating with drink in hand. The Cat House had selections from Lancer Catering, Flight Restaurant and Paradox Catering & Consulting. L’Ecole Culinaire also set up shop in the Cat House, giving guests a refreshing nibble of ginger tossed tuna tartar along with Rang “Pur” Martini, a fruity martini using the lime-flavored Tanqueray Rangpur gin. Miniature pancakes topped with lobster were one of the selections from the creative team at Paradox Catering & Consulting. Café Eclectic set up shop in Primate Canyon tempting the crowd with pumpkin spiced doughnuts and plates of chicken and waffles. Next-door, Lafayette’s Music Room, presented a classic Southern dish: fried green tomatoes topped with a rémoulade sauce. Tsunami showed off their mastery of everything fish with a salmon pineapple lemongrass fusion on a cracker and topped with crème fraîche. Several specialty bars helped keep spirits high. Among them were Le Chardonnay Wine Bar & Bistro, Athens Distributing Company, Budweiser of Memphis, Bacardi Lemonade Stand, Swanky’s Taco Shop and The Capitol Grille. The Jack Daniel’s® Whiskey bar premiered their new “Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire” flavor, a premium whiskey infused with red hot cinnamon liqueur. Several full bars were also on hand: Huey’s Restaurant, Patrick’s, A Moveable Feast, Blind Bear and Bar Dog Tavern. Sugarlands Distilling Company brought the true feel of the 1920s prohibition speakeasy to the party with their moonshine cocktails like a blackberry cocktail that included pineapple and orange juice with a hefty splash of their own blackberry moonshine. Music was also a large part of the Zoo Rendezvous party with five different bands located in different section of the zoo to keep the party jumping. The Brian Breeze Cayolle Trio along with 2 Hipnotic got things started at the zoo entrance. In the panda region, Bueller kept everyone dancing. Primate Canyon was host to the Sensations Band, and the Primate Pavilion featured Entice. It was a party not to be missed! This benefit raised $370,000 for the general operations of the Memphis Zoo.

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

Marsha and Russ Phillips

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry

Karla and Jerry Boruff

Lee and Alena Harris

Martin and Sabrina Cain

Drew Terry and Alana Pegrim

Dr. Stacey Smith, Lindsey Baker and Dr. Laurie Baker

Hannah and Mike Moton

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T.J. and Nishel Patel with Amish and Priya Purohit

Tom and Ellen Prewitt

Kailey Bir and Kelcy Hyman

Mike and Breeze Mav

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Ashley and Jon King

Stephanie and John Drouillard with Clay and Casey Tidwell

Liz Hutton and Libby Wunderlich

Kim Williams and Marcus Grandberry

Felicia Haynes, Dee Hubbard and Vickie Brown

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Randy Farris, Annette McGhee and Jim German

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Pauline Jones, Deidra Clark and Traci Brunetti

Jennifer and Dustin Kennon with Lacy Atkins

Erica and Eric Callan with Brad and Leslie Hines

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Drs. Purvisha and Dharmesh Patel

Tannica Taylor and Mark Rhodes

Drew Bascom and Caley Wright

Jordan and Chris Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal

Jon and Amy Lechner

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Brannan Moore and Megan Arrowood

Vanessa Cardot and Mike Zinkus

Andrew Fischer and Lisa Franklin

Julie Russell and Whitney Lyles

Lene and Regionald Green

Angela and Morgan Parks

EVENT ZOO RENDEZVOUS Benny and Dianne Lendennie

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Euan and Janet Caddell

Jeff and Valerie Morris with Hunter Morris RSVP

Chris and Cheryl Gillespie with Jerry and Judy Shore

Lisa West, Val Mercado, Clare Myers and Lucinda Sanders

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Jon and Courtney Sievers with Jennifer and Christopher Jenkins

Steven White, Alicia Arceneaux and Jesse Rioseco

Chris Cordan and Kymberlee Solomon

Dr. John Rada and Llana Smith

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Neil Varschefski and Shannon Barnes

Kati Clark, Janet Peacock and Gail McDonald

Neal and Jonie Rousseau

Tom and Anna Palazola

Ret. Justice Janice Holder with Ron and Jan Coleman

EVENT ZOO RENDEZVOUS

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Joy Sharpe, Kristin Budzak and Christie Tashie

Blake Freudenberg and Kari Schumann with Alex and Austin Gibson RSVP

Chris and Kim Morgan with David and Timmi Warlick

Raymond and Pat Harris with Henry and Linda Barnhardt

STREETSEEN

Be Free Revolution “Go. Serve. Lead. Love.”

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right yellow, green, deep purple and blue, multicolored paper necklaces are hung from a jewelry stand in a corner of a room which will very soon be a new storefront in Memphis called the Rev. Located on 771 Brookhaven Circle, the Rev will be the storefront piece of the Be Free Revolution (BFR) nonprofit organization, and, unlike most stores, when you purchase one of their wonderful pieces of handcrafted jewelry or a cup of coffee from their shop, you will be empowering and supporting communities located in some of the largest slums of Kenya and Uganda. Opening on October 17th, the Rev and its owners and BFR founders, Britney Lee Christie and Lacey Pease Stluka, are working to offer Memphians a meaningful shopping experience along with an invitation to join them on a journey that promotes love and fosters hope. The Rev will be a place where you can stop by for a cup of coffee and leave signed-up for a life-changing trip Stluka says. The BFR organization works as an avenue of opportunity for families and communities in Africa to earn a trade and sell products that’s earnings go directly back to their village, promoting independence, sustainability and pride. After meeting each other through a church mission trip to Africa, Stluka and Christie were hard hit by the limited options many of these communities face, as they are unable to meet basic needs like shelter, food and education. “Be Free Revolution’s mission is to help people help themselves full circle by working with men and women to create handmade items and then helping them sell those items, which goes back to feeding, training and education programs in Kenya and Uganda,” says Stluka, explaining that after several mission trips to the slums of Uganda and Kenya it became increasingly obvious that donations alone would not help stop the cycle of poverty or activate positive community growth or sustainability. “We were finding, in our mission, that handouts don’t really work. We wanted to give families that option to directly earn money for food and shelter for themselves. In making and selling jewelry, it gives the family something to do with a creative edge, and allows them to create something really beautiful. We felt like that sense of purpose, pride and accomplishment was necessary in our mission with these communities,” says Christie. For more than two years, Stluka and Christie have been organizing mission trips to these African villages. Now, mission trip planning and goods sales will take place at the Rev. Handmade goods such as braided leather bracelets benefit programs like the Be Well Program that educates and counsels teens on hygiene, wellness and self-esteem. The purchase of paper necklaces, called Papers of Peace, goes toward counseling, self-esteem and feeding programs in Kibera, located in Nairobi, Kenya and one of the largest slums in Africa. Additionally, the Rev will be selling local coffee by J. Brooks as well as other local artisan products. Stluka hopes that the Rev will be a watering hole for individuals interested in being apart of this “Go. Serve. Lead. Love.” lifestyle. Check out the Rev and the BFR mission during their Grand Opening. You can also find more information about mission trips, handmade goods and Memphis service opportunities at befreerevolution.org. BFR will be celebrating their annual Passport to the Rev event on October 11th in its new storefront location. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

STREETSEEN

Jonathan Pekar Filming Memphis

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ost Memphians would agree that Memphis is the house of cool. But, if there were a documenter within that house, it would be Ardent Recording Studios. Ardent has continued to capture some of best music and film from Memphis and from around the world in the last forty plus years, creating numerous international stars. Ardent never forgets, though, where it came from – the heart of Memphis’ eclectic and diverse culture. The studio continues to celebrate and harness the city’s exuberant propensity for all things cool in new and groundbreaking ways. One way in which Ardent is continuing to create new and captivating media is through its Film Department. Memphis native and Ardent director of film Jonathan Pekar is making some big strides in Memphis film, and it is an understatement to say he is excited about his post and his unique position to share his enthusiastic passion for all things Memphis to the entire world. “We want to entertain to the highest possible level. We are a full service production company based in Memphis with a very strong Memphis aesthetic. The whole concept is Memphis entertainment for the world. We are spreading Memphis flavor across the planet through film and music,” Pekar candidly states. From feature films to television to documentaries, the Ardent Film Department does it all. After returning to Memphis from living in Los Angeles and working with the Discovery Channel, Pekar quickly let the city know the extent of his mastery of film when he won an AFD, a Midsouth Emmy for Best Commercial for his animated commercial for the Memphis Music Foundation that features paintings from well-known Memphis artist, Lamar Sorrento. He has also created music videos for Memphis music stars Amy LaVere and band Star & Micey. Channeling and incorporating his true love of the city of Memphis (Pekar proudly describes himself as a “38104 guy” and shows off a tattoo with the same inked numbers), Pekar and his team recently created commercials for Central BBQ and CFI Prosthetics Orthotics. The word commercial doesn’t really doesn’t describe what the Ardent film team has done here. What they have created in these two commercials captures the individual essence of Memphis: charming, funny and surprising with a bite to it. Pekar’s newest project, “Kids of Memphis,” is a half-hour long TV series featuring Moziah Bridges of Mo’s Bows; Hanna Star, young singer/songwriter/musician; and Skyler King, a rising skateboarding star. In each episode, the young adults will “better the city of Memphis one project at a time, encouraging other kids to be a part of it,” Pekar explains, adding that the crew of kids will continue to grow as the show develops. The show is slated to be aired in December of this year. Pekar and his team have also teamed up with The Blues Foundation, collaborating on selecting and editing material for the 35th Blues Music Awards Telecast, a 90minute program aired on PBS that highlights the best moments from this year’s Blues Music Awards. On why Memphis is the place for innovative film, Pekar declares, “Memphis is Memphis. You cannot replicate that anywhere else. Try as hard as you can, there is no false wall you can build, there is no smell you can put in the air, there is no feeling of in-between the shots of what you are getting when you are in Memphis.” Pekar has his finger on the pulse of Memphis. He is dedicated to injecting that Memphis attitude into his work, and, it is safe to say, that we can expect many great films from him in the upcoming years, films that continue the legacy of capturing the big heart and distinctive flavor of Memphis. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

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EVENT

The Great Gatsby Gala

THE GREAT GATSBY GALA

Benefiting the American Cancer Society®

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William Walker and Jordan Huntze

Rola and Dr. Suhail Obaji

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n F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby,” Jay Gatsby desperately wanted to recreate the past, and, nearly 90 years after its publication, the American Cancer Society® (ACS) did just that at an event that would have made the titular character proud. Title sponsors, Baptist Cancer Center and Caesars Entertainment paired with the ACS® to host the Great Gatsby Gala, held at The Columns at One Commerce Square. The former bank lobby turned elegant reception venue provided a fitting background for the Art Deco affair. Early patrons congregated downstairs in what used to be the bank’s safe deposit vault where hors d’oeuvres of beef tenderloin kabobs, deviled eggs with shrimp and bruschetta topped with fresh mozzarella and tomato slices were served while the duo of Brennan Villines and Neal Bowen preformed Jazz Age melodies for the guests. Upstairs, amid the 22 massive Ionic pillars that are eponymous of the edifice, were 25 tables adorned with centerpieces featuring floral arrangements and large, decorative white-plumed feathers surrounded by a ring of alternating key lime pie and chocolate torte dessert plates. The tables were also complemented with gilt place settings and chairs. Prior to dinner guests mingled in tuxedos and cloche hats while perusing the silent auction items. Highlights of the auction included vacation packages to exotic locals like St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua and Panama; A Disney family vacation; autographed sports memorabilia signed by Marc Gasol, Jim Boeheim and Jimbo Fisher; paintings and jewelry by local artists and artisans; group deals; gift baskets and a mystery wine pull. When guests finally sat down, they were greeted by a fresh romaine, parmesan, bacon and crostini salad in anticipation of the main course that featured a seared chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto and provolone, spinach and mushroom risotto and sautéed broccoli drenched in a lemon basil cream sauce. During dinner, the alluring aerialist Danielle Bayliss entertained the crowd with her elevated dance and acrobatics routine. Founded in 1913 by a group of New York physicians who wanted to debunk the then public stigma surrounding cancer, The ACS® describes itself as a health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Currently, the ACS® is the largest voluntary health organization in the United States and largest not-for-profit funder of cancer research spending over $4 billion since 1946. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Tyler McGlaughlin and Nicole Blum

Story by Patrick Lantrip Photos by Don Perry

Amy Modlin and David Wolford

China and Ryan Jenkins

Amy and Brennan Villines

Drs. Purvisha and Dharmesh Patel

Ashley Voss, Lisa Payne, Mallory Henry, Kate Kelley and Sonja Ray

Leighanne and Jack Soden

EVENT THE GREAT GATSBY GALA Kara Carter and Neal Bowen

Michael and Trina Jones

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James Sexton, Randy Ballard and Victor Sawyer

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Amy and Jason Chandler with Steve and Sylvia Richey

Benny and Kate Weksler

Kimberly and Anthony House

EVENT THE GREAT GATSBY GALA

Jullian and Doug Foster

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Waid Ray and Jan Conwill

LaMora Simpson, Bernie Krock and Ellen Barry RSVP

Morgan Harriman and Lisa Ault

Lindsay and Clint Cummins

Russell Farley and Sarah Bynum

Kristen and Joe Lane

EVENT Loretta and Jones Shanley

Ricky and Catherine Harris

John and Sandy Barrios

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THE GREAT GATSBY GALA Jessica Rifanberg and Andrew McClelland

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Debra Towns, Pat McWilliams and Tifani Pinson

Lisa and Dr. Ken Fields

Shawn and Marty Thomas

EVENT THE GREAT GATSBY GALA

Whitney Merida and Maria Robinson

Valerie and Jeff Morris

Latrice McLin and Claudia Barr

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Christopher and Jennifer Jenkins

Tracy McFall and Mike Bates

Margaret and Bruce Yancey

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Dr. Randy and Latreica Smith

Rominic Clark, Andrea Prater and Crystal Driver

Jennifer and Tim Watson

Carrie and Chris McLemore

Alicia Anderson, Lindsay Chapman, Kate Van Namen and Jaime Hopkins

EVENT THE GREAT GATSBY GALA

Garry Goin and Lee Clarke

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Marla and Erich Mounce

Barbara Dooley, Grace Kreager and Dr. Richard Raichelson RSVP

Lea and Robert Carr

Frank and Emily Lequerica

Mary and Jim Hopkins with Kendall and Jason Maykowski

EVENT THE GREAT GATSBY GALA Vicki Long and Linda Edge

Chris and Amy Smith with Kirby and Priscilla Smith

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Scott Smith and Jason Williams

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Cynthia Swain and Stephen Edge

Emily Capadalis and Tom Love

Claire Harrison and Lil Rudd

Liza Monaghan and Dalton Graham

By Eugene Pidgeon

DAVID HOGAN: A LIFE IN HEAVY ROTATION

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“D

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epending on what day it is, I spend my time between east Tennessee, Los Angeles and New York,” says David Hogan. Today it is Friday, and Hogan is near Jackson, Tennessee visiting his mother. You might not know David Hogan by name. He could sit right next to you in a restaurant or bump into you by accident at an airport luggage carousel, and, if you weren’t wily enough to gather, the only thing you might remember from the encounter is what a nice and polite southern gentleman he is. Even if you had never heard of David Hogan, yet somehow were advised of the vast swath he has cut and is still cutting across an international cultural landscape, you might be surprised to discover how David Hogan is a genuinely modest man. And that may be best how he would like to be remembered. Modestly, David Hogan is a writer, a filmmaker and, perhaps, one of the most celebrated if not successful music video directors in the last 30 years. He is not to be confused with nor does he bear any resemblance to the evangelist with whom he shares only a name. Hogan grew up in Memphis where he sharpened his wits and honed his considerable artistic chops as a record album cover designer for Stax Records. At the ripe young age of 22, Hogan owned and operated his own commercial art studio. Yet, Hogan’s particular talent, sharp eye and cunningly attentive ear may very well be found in his ingratiatingly authentic bedside manner. The word ingratiating is often attached to the contrivance of amiability as if it were a tool and not a not characteristic. However, when applied to Hogan, his natural amiability has served him just as faithfully and perhaps more so than both his sense of story and his sense of timing. When you take a moment to digest, one byte at a time, the enormity of Hogan’s video catalogue there are but a few of the critically and commercially significant artists of the last quarter century who have not benefited from his participation in their music video or film project. Yet is it not simply his artistic vision that has performers such as Rod Stewart, Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow and the Dave Matthews Band returning their work into his capable hands time and time again.

Who Hogan is as a person may have just as much bearing on his success as does his skill as an artist. Managing personalities and balancing egos is as much a part of his working environment as are balancing sound levels and calling in lighting cues. There is something true and accessible about him. This cannot be feigned or fabricated. People trust David Hogan. “I started directing videos in 1979,” Hogan remembers carefully. Circa 1982-83, Hogan directed me in a music

Photo by Lisa Cox

THE AMBASSADOR SERIES

The Ambassador Series

video titled “What She Wants,” sung by cowboy crooner Michael Martin Murphey and shot in Memphis. “Oh yeah…I forgot about that!” This is probably because from that point on, Hogan has never had to look back. He has taken a cue from renowned photographer Diane Arbus. On the masthead of his website Hogan has posted a quote from the fabled photographer: “My favorite thing is to go where I have never been!” Currently, Hogan is polishing up a few screenplays for feature films. “I am kind of excited about them,” he muses with the contained authority of a poker player sitting on a winning hand, a hand where too much enthusiasm revealed too soon might scare the other players from the table. “One is in the horror genre and the other…well I really don’t want to talk about that one yet! I am still directing music videos, but now I am trying to con-

centrate on my writing.” Hogan reveals, “Writing is what I want to do. I am a director who wants to be a writer. It is usually the opposite. You know, usually the writer wants to direct.” It is doubtful Hogan will ever hang his hat(s) on any measure of achievement or accomplishment that was derived by employing a “usual tactic!” Additionally, and far and above his current screenplay endeavors and video directing commitments, Hogan has crafted his first novel. “It is a Memphis story based on the life of Harold Boone. The working title is ‘To Ride the Night!’” Harold Boone, who just recently passed away, was a colorful personality who carved quite a niche for himself in what some might consider the darker underbelly of the Memphis experience. Hogan has remembered him more thoughtfully perhaps. “He was a bodyguard, a bouncer, he collected money for people. He was a hustler! All of this is true. But when I was growing up…he looked out for all of us. He took care of us, and we all have remained close with him until he died this September. Harold Boone was my friend and the most interesting person I have ever known,” Hogan states clearly. “To Ride the Night!” was originally conceived and crafted as a screenplay and by rote it has morphed into a novel project. “There were three, maybe four permutations of the screenplay at one time. And I have used both of those screenplays separately and collectively as the outline for the book,” Hogan says. Hogan has known Boone since he was 15. “I’ve used him in several projects. I put him in ‘Barb Wire,’ the movie I directed with Pam Anderson. He was also featured in ‘What She Wants,’ the music video that you were in,” Hogan recalls. Over the course of a long career, Hogan has garnered many awards and accolades. The dustbowl infused irony of Sheryl Crow’s signature video “I’m Leaving Las Vegas” is a cinematic testimony to his grand mastery of impressionism and of contrasting internal styles. This ability keeps him relevant and his work fresh. Hogan is fluent in many musical genres. Hogan can speak Rock and Roll! Hogan can speak Rhythm and Blues. He can speak Country! Yet, even though his accent may be different or vary with each style he works with, the voice is and will always be unmistakably his and his alone.

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Vox Popular Q&A with Dr. David Rudd

RSVP: How has the transition from a Provost to the President of the University of Memphis been so far? Rudd: It has actually been a really smooth transition. Provosts are deeply involved in all areas of a universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s functions. When I was Provost, it allowed me to get to know the University of Memphis in remarkable depth, and provided me a chance to be fully informed across each and every division of the university. So it has been a very smooth transition. I got to meet quite a few people in that first year, not just internally but also externally, so I know a lot of the key players all across the board.

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RSVP: What are the roles and responsibilities of a Provost, and how do they compare to your responsibilities now as President?

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Rudd: A Provost is a chief academic officer, and, therefore, is responsible for the academic mission, which is in the ballpark of about 70 percent of university budget. Probably, the critical difference, in terms of the transition from provost to the presidency, is: the president shapes the larger vision for the university as a whole, but, probably more profoundly, the president has a much deeper level of involvement in terms of external relationships, in terms of fund-raising as well as the overall image locally, regionally and nationally for the university. RSVP: What is the vision you are shaping for the University of Memphis within your role as president? Rudd: It clusters around a number of domains. In order to make it easy, we have captured the mission in three words: grow, connect and impact. The notion of growth, is the growth of our students, overall recruitment of students, retention of students and graduation of students. I will tell you, we have had a great success this year. The freshman class grew by a couple of hundred, which is the first growth in the freshman class that we have in a couple of years. We have graduated four hundred more students in the last two years relative to the previous two years. We have also retained students better. So all of these are good things. We are focused on not only the growth of students but also the growth of our research mission. We have a goal to expand our research capacity around 55 million to around 100 million over the course of the next decade. We will have some growth in our research mission. We have grown about five percent in terms of funding. We hope to expand that even further. We have a couple of exciting announcements that we will, hopefully, be able to share in the next few months. Then, finally, we are experiencing growth in terms of external support that includes both corporate support as well as private development. In terms of those three metrics of grow, connect and impact, the second one, connect, is for us to connect more, specifically, internally in terms of breaking down traditional silos across divisions, colleges, programs. We want to do more interdisciplinary work and to externally connect with the community through our service and

research capacity. We also want the University of Memphis to connect nationally. Lastly, we have the issue of impact. We want the work that we do to positively impact the lives of our students and the lives of our community. You will see as we shape this strategic plan through the course of the year all of those things will fall within those three components. It is a big effort but strategic plans are ideally bold and big in order to move an institution forwards.

Photos by Don Perry

niversity of Memphis President Dr. David Rudd sat down with RSVP Editor Rachel Warren to speak about what is on the horizon for the University of Memphis in the next couple of years, goals and growth of the university and expanding the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to academic research on a national level.

RSVP: You mentioned connecting across all departments, would that effort aim at opening up clear communication between academic departments? Rudd: Absolutely. We really want to have interdisciplinary collaborations. For example, look at the Crews Center for Entrepreneurship, which just opened last year. Traditionally, when we think of entrepreneurship, we think about business. What we have asked is that entrepreneurship cut across all of the domains in the university and all colleges, even those that may have thought that entrepreneurship may not factor in. We have entrepreneurial activity in the college of nursing and the college of fine arts. As you can see, the Crews Center has done a fine job of reaching out in terms of the development of curriculum that cuts across those colleges, and they have created interdisciplinary teams for us to be more competitive for international research funds. The only way to do this is with interdisciplinary teams. We feel good about all this activity. RSVP: What is one of the most exciting roles that you perform now as president? Rudd: You know, I believe the most exciting role I perform is the opportunity to connect with students both at the undergraduate and graduate levels in a very different way. It gives me the opportunity to have close contact with student leaders and to work with them to shape a university that is effective not only in terms of the excellence of the curriculum that we deliver, but also being able to connect them with a career, life-long learning and, hopefully, at the end of that a job. We want to be able to help students hold down costs and recognize that that cost takes on two forms. One of those is tuition cost and the other one is student debt. We want to be a responsible partner in those efforts. If you look over the course of the last decade and the evolution of higher education, one of the most significant changes in higher education is the recognition that a university experience and a degree needs to be thoughtful and needs to be connected to a career. We need to be very strategic in how we develop and deliver excellence in our curriculum to make that happen. I think we are doing more of that now than we have ever done.

RSVP: You were also just recognized and awarded for your research work with the National Center for Veterans Studies. Can you tell us an about your background in research and the details of the award? Rudd: My research team and myself received the Military Health System Research Symposium Research Accomplishment Award. I am a psychologist by training. Over the years I have done work in mental health and, specifically, work with severe mental illness and people at risk for suicide. I served previously in the military and got out after the Gulf War. As a veteran myself, I have always been connected to veteran issues. I founded the National Center for Veteran Studies when I was the dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Science at the University of Utah. University of Memphis now partners with the University of Utah in that effort. Over the course of the last five years, we have had Department of Defense funding to do a treatment program for active duty soldiers who are at risk for suicide. That is the work that was recognized. We have had some nice success with that. RSVP: How does your psychological background help you advance academic settings or planning? Rudd: The fact that I have been a faculty member for many years, and the fact that I have been funded and have done research for the entirety of that time gives me a relatively unique perspective in terms of the challenges of juggling the many demands of being a faculty member. It certainly has provided me an awareness of the research infrastructure and the support that is necessary to have a successful research program. So one of the things we did last year when I was Provost was conduct a research capacity analysis that looked at this issue of infrastructure support and found that the university has been relatively static in terms of its research funding over the course of the last six or seven years. Much of that is driven by a lack of infrastructure and a lack of support to grow the research mission. It has given me an awareness of that, and it has certainly given me an awareness of effective teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Oftentimes, some of our most productive faculty

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RSVP: Why is Memphis and the University of Memphis a great setting for students and scholars? Rudd: There are a couple of reasons. Memphis has a rich and diverse culture. Out of that richness, Memphis has a great entrepreneurial spirit. Just a couple of weeks ago Memphis was ranked in the top five for cities to start a new business in. I think that there is great energy and creativity that is captured by Memphis and that is something you hear our students talk about. It is relatively hidden, I think, at a national level. Traditionally, we have drawn most of our students from within an 80 to a 100 hundred-mile radius of the university. This year, we are showing some evidence of the ability to expand beyond that, and I hope we can bring that message to more people. Memphis is a great place! We have two of the top five most popular tourist attractions in the country in Memphis. Show me another city that has two of the top five tourist attractions. They canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. RSVP: Are there any new things we can look forward to happening in the near future at the University of Memphis?

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Rudd: There are a couple of things. One of the most critical things for us is that we have to maintain access and affordability. Over the course of the next five years, it would be nice to see University of Memphis nationally recognized as a best-valued university at an undergraduate level, meaning that we would deliver an excellent curriculum and educational experience at a noticeably reasonable cost. We want to lower overall student debt, and as a part of that, graduate more students and retain more students. We want to be able to do that in parallel fashion while we grow the national visibility for the research mission at the university. I think we can do both of those things. If we do that, the university will very clearly be on the national stage. If you look at the growth of our application poll of the course of last year, a lot of that growth was external. If you look at the number of new freshman we bought in this year, we had somewhere around an increase of a 10 to 11 percent growth in the freshman class. That is the first growth we have had in three years. Of that growth, 46 percent of that is from out-of-state students. That is a growing national footprint for the university. So what I would like to see in five years is that we have a very noticeable national footprint.

members on the research side are some of the most engaging in the classroom because they are on the cutting edge of what is going on in their given area of expertise, and students can potentially get involved. In 2017, the University of Memphis will be hosting the National Council for Undergraduate Research Conference on campus. There will be over 3,000 undergraduate students from across the country that will come to Memphis. We competed for that and were awarded for that last year.

Rudd: You certainly can. You can look at the fact that we have a new Living Learning Facility, a $52 million facility that will open next fall. 37 You are going to hear a lot more about that very soon. It is going to be a fabulous facility that has about seven hundred beds in it. So we will be bringing seven hundred students into it. At the end of this year, we will start building the new Recreation Center for the university. It will really enhance the residential experience at the university. We are making a concerted effort to grow the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residential capacity and experience for our students. You will see the new private partnership off of Highland Street that will break ground at the end of September or early October. That will include another 350 beds going up over there. That will change Highland dramatically. We bought the old Highland Library. We are exploring the idea of moving our police force there in that building. That would just be one tenant in the building, but we hope to do that in the near term. I think you will see some dramatic development on Highland. We want to make it clear that there is great value to living on campus at the University of Memphis. Both of those facilities help in that direction. In addition to that, we are pursuing building a new research building that we think is critical to grow the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research infrastructure. I would love to see that start in the near term. We are also looking at a performance facility. We are starting some discussions about if there is something we could do in the fine arts side in Downtown Memphis. We have a law school downtown. It would be wonderful to see if we can expand this corridor from the university downtown and build on that footprint that we already have with the law school with the fine arts programs. The reality for us is that the issues we want to focus on are straightforward. We know what is required to provide adequate support for our students to help them be successful. The challenge is to develop and maintain the resources to make that happen. That is where we are focused. RSVP

RSVP: Where would you like to see the University of Memphis in the next five years?

EVENT

Paw Prints Party

PAW PRINTS PARTY

Supporting Furry Friends

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Deborah and Steve Crocker

Susan and Rick Clifford

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he 2014 Paw Prints Party was held at Woodland Hills. Serving as a benefit for the Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County (HSMSC), the event brought together pet lovers to celebrate the organization’s successes of the past year. In 2013, HSMSC increased its intake and adoptions by 50 percent, finding forever homes for more than 1,100 animals. Additionally, more than 500 communityowned pets were spayed or neutered and close to 1,000 were vaccinated. As the doors opened for the evening event, drinks and appetizers of buffalo chicken wonton brochette were passed as guests perused tables filled with silent auction items, many with a pet-related theme. Phillip Van Zandt Photography offered commemorative photos with couples posing in front of a Paw Prints photo background. A wine pull offered chances for guests to try their luck at securing a valuable bottle of wine and a “Heads or Tails” raffle enticed guests to participate in the ultimate coin toss in hopes of winning a pair of diamond drop earrings from Claire Ellers Jewelry. Judge Robert Lanier was recognized with the organization’s Founder’s Award, given to individuals that “have helped HSMSC become what it is today.” The Volunteer Award was given to Jim Waldron for his outstanding volunteer efforts. Allen Iskiwitz, a member of the HSMSC Advisory Board, was awarded the title of “Humane Hero” as “someone who sets the bar high for standing up to animal suffering in Shelby County.” Katie Pemberton, HSMSC public relations and marketing manger, described a special section of the silent auction saying, “Paws for Art included artwork inspired by Humane Society residents and staff, as well as pieces by professional artists Phyllis Boger and Carol Sams Schreiber.” Terri Walker, an auctioneer who specializes in conducting benefit auctions for charities, brought the crowd’s attention back to the fund-raising at hand as she led the crowd through a rousing competition for tasting parties at High Cotton Brewery and Interim Restaurant & Bar as well as a Backyard BBQ Bash from One & Only BBQ. There were also vacation packages to Kentucky Lake and Panama City Beach up for bid. Local sports packages included a luxury suite at The Redbirds and a chance for a child to be the Memphis Grizzlies Honorary Ball Kid. Other auction items ranged from a kayak to a signed Grizzlies basketball coupled with the opportunity to have the “Voice of the Grizzlies,” Rick Trotter record your voicemail. Additionally, an annual tradition continued with a “stock the bar” wheelbarrow full of wine and/or liquor provided by Star Distributors. One of the most unique offerings was a “James Bond” package that included two hours of dual flight training, two private horseback riding lessons, a handgun permit carry class at Range USA and an aircraft-grade aluminum pocket knife from Doris McLendon’s Fine Jewelry. The event raised approximately $80,000 for the HSMSC. Serving on the host committee were Honorary Co-Chairman Jean Vaughan McGhee, Dr. Bo Adams, Richard Collum, Kristi Crawford, Maria Garrett, Carol LaRocca, Joelle Pittman and Leah Walker. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Jaquila and Erling Jensen

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Patrick Lantrip

Debra and David Aquadro

Mike and Julie Mathews

Bill and Terry Wren

John Sanders and Jessie Isbell

Ginny Taylor, David Edelson and Joelle Pittman

Rosanna Gill and Kyle Wright

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Lindy Ward and Betty Lyon

Megan and Kolby Young

David and Amy Wolford

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Laurie Earnheart and Megan Toeller

Katelin and Lee Walker

Brandy Wade and Christina Block

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Dale and Jeanie Sommer

Lauren Coles, Shannon Schilling and Ross Feaster

Jerry Spore and Lisa Rumsey

Jennifer Sink and Buck Wellford

Anthony Shaw, Suzanne Landers and Josh Wallis

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Coutney and Joe Martini

Dustin Wood and Nikki Jemenez

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Shawn Hayden and Laura Nathan

Steve Schwartz and Peggy Foster

Lisa Bell and Rick Jones

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Steve and Tena Martin

Nancy Milton and Betty Wallace

Jean McGhee and Sara Hall

Mathew Hikade and Kelley Willis

Susan Gaugh and Mark Fleck

Richard and Susan Glassman

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Sam Jenkins and Hope Glover

Ben and Anna Nicol with Matt and Wendy VanCleve RSVP

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Barry Densford and Amanda Ivy

Chris and Nicky Hitching with Hester and Andy Mathes

EVENT PAW PRINTS PARTY Ashley Harris and Phillip Lapuente

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Cody and Sara Liles with Emily and Wes Pearson

Chrystal and Derrell Freeman

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Advertising in RSVP Magazine places your message before an active, affluent market of Mid-Southerners who desire the best in quality and service.

More Than 120,000 Readers

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Average Household Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $184,500 per year Average Net Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,250,000 Male Readers . . . . . . 40.8% Female Readers . . . . . . . . 59.2% Marital Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.2% married Home Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81.3% Education: Attended/Graduated College plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.0% Have Post graduate degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.6% 88.6% . . . . Purchased a Product or Visited a Store due to Advertising in RSVP. 42.6% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Traveled Abroad during the past year. 52% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eat out at least 3 times per week. 30,000 copies delivered monthly throughout the Affluent Shopping Areas of Greater Memphis From Harbor Town to Collierville.

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Spirit of SRVS

SPIRIT OF SRVS

Feel the Spirit!

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Ann Dandridge and Lester Brown

Marty and Amanda Wood

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Lance and Christina Clements

Charles Boone and Dawna Divine

upporters of SRVS came out in droves to sample some of Memphis’ best cuisine as well as taste some choice wines and beverages at the 16th annual Spirit of SRVS. Held at the Hilton Memphis, this annual fund-raiser was host to 15 different eateries and restaurants. Over 30 assorted wine and beer distributors donated their select beverages, which guests had no trouble enjoying. Attendees were encouraged to bring their cell phones for the silent auction, which was done through mobile text bidding, a first for this annual event. The presenting sponsor was Dobbs Equity Partners, and event chairs were Frances Metheny and Harvey Middleton. Paula and Steve Sansom were the honorary chairs. Joe Birch of WMC-TV was the night’s energetic and articulate emcee. The night, of course, began with the plethora of food waiting within the Hilton Tennessee Ballroom. DeJaVu Restaurant passed around heaping bowls of their Big Easy Pasta with chicken, sausage and shrimp in a creamy sauce. A giant burger display set off the Kooky Canuck table, which gave guests a chance to create a time honored sweet treat: S’mores. Set up with controlled flames, skewers and a buffet of chocolates, giant marshmallows and graham crackers, partygoers toasted their marshmallows to perfection, happy to have a kid’s dessert in a grownup setting. Central BBQ handed out hearty plates of their barbecue nachos. The silent auction was filled with hundreds of items, big and small, but the bidding itself was truly silent as bidders quietly kept up with items like jewelry, clothing, restaurant gift certificates, vacation packages and concert tickets through the magic of their phones. A live auction also got underway with several valuable items such as an Orange Lake Resort package, dinner for four by Chef Samantha Long, cooking lessons with Chef Gary Williams and Destin Florida vacation package. Stephanie Turner, Mrs. Tennessee International 2014, presented the auction’s fabulous jewelry item, garnet and diamond earrings. Edwin McSwine’s artwork titled “Brother’s Keeper” was auctioned of as the evening’s commemorative artwork during the live auction. McSwine is a local artist whose work as been commissioned by the National Civil Rights Museum and Oprah Winfrey. Personally touched by the mission of SRVS, McSwine’s sister, Tonda, attends the SRVS Learning Center. Entertainment was provided by a variety of talent. Alex Williams and Monquiette Felder performed a rendition of R. Kelly’s “I Believe I Can Fly.” Madeline Flack of SRVS Kids and Families played a waltz by Johannes Brahms on the violin, and nationally recognized dance company, Company d of Memphis, showed off their signature moves. Seven piece band, Party Planet, really turned up the heat with their funky party tunes. Special guests and culinary judges Joyce Peterson and Todd and Karen Perrin awarded Kooky Canuck for Best of Show and Central BBQ for Best Appetizer. Over $180,000 was raised for SRVS. Diana Fedinec, SRVS Public Relations, said, “Proceeds from tonight will be used to support more than 1,000 individuals in Tennessee, employment initiatives, expansion of the satellite centers of the SRVS Learning Centers and residential and family support programs.” Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Keith and Donna Renard with Debbie and Barry Marshall

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David Nall and Heather Swanson

Donna Melton and Ed Galfsky

John and Gwen Brown

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Joe Blutas and Madeline Webb

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Donna and Pat Hoffman

Ellen Patrick and Mike Cannon

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Valerie Calhoun and John Elkington

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Stephanie Turner

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Mike Roberts and Teresa Hurst

EVENT SPIRIT OF SRVS Sara Stewart and Collins Mikell

Matthew and Valerie Middleton

Bill Albans and Debbie Callahan

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Jenny and Sarkis Kish

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Cecilia Chen and Jasmine Sutton

Madelyn Gray, Amy Harris and Angela Watson

Nermin Hodzic and Tiffany Collins

Pam Mattingley and Kevin Bentley

John McCormick and Anne Wesberry with Susan and Richard Glassman

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SPIRIT OF SRVS

John and Elisha Vego

Jeanie Gundlach and Steve Conley

Elly Deyhle

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David Strong and Barbara Strong

Chris and Stephanie Phillips

Barbara Benstein and Mike McNeer

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Parker and Dottie Harness

Bob Laurie with Pat and Larry Cox

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Charles and Beth Henderson

Darna Davis, Chinishe Ray, Kristy Conley and Latisha Bates

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Jennifer McCullough Reception

Grant’s Gala

Local culinarian Jennifer McCullough “Chef Jenn” who has a line of frozen seafood dips at Kroger stores, vied in competition on a spring episode of Television Food Network’s smash-hit cooking show, Cutthroat Kitchen. Friends and family gathered at the University Club to watch the show following a reception during which they enjoyed some of McCullough’s signature dips and her newest product, frozen crab cakes. After filling their plates, guests settled in to cheer her on during the broadcast. The tasty dips served included Herbed Crawfish, Buffalo-style Shrimp, and Southwestern Crab, which proved to be almost as big of a hit as the show itself. The room erupted in applause when McCullough was named the winner and took home $12,700 in cash. Two sheet cakes bearing a replica of the front packaging of her dips provided the guests with a sweet treat as the party came to an end.

Teton Trek lodge at the Memphis Zoo was jam-packed, not only with animal lovers, but with people supporting The Children’s Heart Foundation at the 2014 Grant’s Gala. Music of the band Almost Famous filled the air as guests entered, and a silent auction as well as a wine pull gave them the opportunity to support the cause before they enjoyed a prime rib dinner. The event is held as an homage to Grant Goughnour, Holly and Mike Goughnour’s infant son, who passed when he was 17 days old of an undiagnosed heart condition. His parents and their friends and family began gathering in August of 2007, on the eve of what should have been Grant’s fifth birthday, to raise money to help children with congenital heart defects. Now in its seventh year, Grant’s Gala has become an annual tradition.

Woman’s Exchange of Memphis Art Gallery Preview Party

University of Tennessee Health Science Center Alumni Reception

Local artists at the Woman’s Exchange of Memphis annual Art Gallery Preview Party greeted guests who came to take in a night of art and mingling. Many art lovers sipped wine and chatted with the artists while perusing their artwork, which was done in a variety of mediums and styles, from watercolors and textiles to oil and metal. Lucky guests got first dibs at purchasing the pieces before the official opening of the month-long show. A buffet of summer fruit, homemade dips and spreads were also available to the crowd. Since 1832, the Woman’s Exchange of Memphis has been selling handmade items for women in the community with the initial goal of helping them gain financial independence.

The Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) hosted a reception at the Memphis Botanic Garden to spread the good news to alumni and supporters in the Memphis area about the unprecedented growth, development and construction efforts on campus. UTHSC Chancellor Steve Schwab updated the crowd on the many changes taking place on the Memphis campus. The event was part of a series of gatherings held at UTHSC sites across the state to update alumni on the progress of their alma mater. A similar event, held two days later in Nashville, offered the opportunity to inform alumni about UTHSC’s new partnership with Saint Thomas Health system, as well as plans for a new expansion building for the College of Dentistry to be attached to the Winfield C. Dunn Dental Building on the Memphis campus. Former Tennessee governor, Winfield Dunn, a UTHSC College of Dentistry alumnus for whom the existing building is named, was a guest at the Nashville event, along with his wife, Betty.

Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Story Submitted Photos by Tim Bullard and Thurman Hobson

Nora Boswell and Tess Herman Bill Foley with Dick and Ellie Goughnour Gil Stovall, Katie and John Monaghan with Jennifer McCullough Dr. Mike Schatzlein with Carol Schwab and Dr. Steve Schwab and Betty and Winfield Dunn

Mary Lee and Jess Wesberry

Emma, Jacob and Grace Goughnour with Holly and Mike Goughnour

Patti O’Flaherty, Denise Stewart and Mary Holzemer Dr. Jay and Debbie Ragain

Johnny and Kim Pitts with Jennifer and Paul Chandler

Katherine Baricos and Karen Viotti

Dr. Jack Mirabile, James Aldinger and Richard Babin

Erin and Dr. Joseph Sturdivant with Dr. Pat Wall

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Emili Knox, Andrea Glass, Catherine Patton, Hannah Joyner, Justin Mays, Montavious Phillips and Dalvino Densen

Real Good Dog Rescue Benefit

Survivor Luncheon

Memphis in May staff and board members joined hundreds of festival volunteers at the Memphis Botanic Garden for the organization’s annual meeting and volunteer celebration. Guests mingled throughout Hardin Hall, catching up with one another after completing the 38th annual, month-long international festival that honored Panama. Jim Holt, Memphis in May chairman and CEO, addressed the crowd and shared facts and figures from this year’s event, proclaiming the 2014 festival as the largest grossing festival to date with overall revenues topping $7.2 million. Joining Holt on stage, Ron Coleman, 2014 chairman of the board, was presented with a framed shadow box of mementoes from Panama and keepsakes from his tenure. Subsequently, Coleman officially passed the gavel to his successor, Wei Chen, CEO and founder of the Memphis-based Sunshine Enterprise, Inc. Volunteers awards included Ann Capatino of the Barbecue Administration Committee receiving the Sylvia Bradshaw award for Chairperson of the Year, the Lawrence Blackmon Volunteer of the Year was Ashley Ising with the Transportation Committee and the 2014 President’s Award, given annually as special recognition to a volunteer for their long-term dedicated service to Memphis in May, was awarded to Whit Sutton. Holt returned to the spotlight for the moment that everyone had been waiting for: the announcement of the honored country of 2015 – Poland!

The evening was a “howling” success as more than 300 people gathered in the Tower Room at Clark Tower to support Real Good Dog Rescue. With party favors for man and beast alike, guests were greeted with bags of dog nibbles and chocolates for their people. Partygoers found easy conversation starters with clever nametags that touted the faces and names of canines seeking their forever homes through the rescue group. Lisa Trenthem, the organization’s leader of the pack, was pleased with the supportive turnout for the inaugural event. Wade & Company Catering catered the evening’s delicious food. Guests dined while listening to the harmonious tunes of the musical duo Hank and Nora, who were joined for the evening by John Chambliss on upright bass. Also providing entertainment for the event was The Good Company Trio with soloist Judith Johnstone. Among the attendees were canine foster parents and supporters, as well as some of the organization’s other volunteers. Rounding out the crowd were the happy parents who had previously adopted the fourlegged babies through Real Good Dog Rescue. Barbara Standing, event co-chairman, said, “This organization is 100 percent volunteer-operated. It is impressive that Real Good Dog Rescue has been able to grow from adopting a few dogs to adopting out approximately 400 dogs a year within the 10 years they have been operating.” All proceeds from this Real Good Dog Party will be used for the care of canines in the Real Good Dog Rescue program.

The Susan G. Komen® Race for the Cure Memphis-MidSouth Affiliate hosted its annual Survivor Luncheon at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis. The room glowed hot pink as over 250 breast cancer survivors and race sponsors gathered to support one another and celebrate the advancements being made in the fight against breast cancer. Stephanie Scurlock of WREG, served as mistress of ceremonies, welcoming the crowd and introducing Peggy Williams, the event’s featured guest speaker. Williams, a 20-year breast cancer survivor and a 7-year survivor of colon cancer, works as a vice president analyst at FedEx. She shared her testimony and reminded attendees that there was always hope. Komen MemphisMidsouth Affiliate Executive Director Elaine Hare said, “When it comes to breast cancer, all ‘pink’ is not created equal. Susan G. Komen® Memphis-MidSouth is the only local grant provider, as a payer of last resort, for screenings, mammograms and diagnostics.”

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Emma Black, Jill Samuels and Leslie Black

Dave Ciavarella, Claudine Nayan, Diana Wong and James Aiken

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

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Nell Riley, Debbie Coletta and Melissa Williams Jim and Judy Baker

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Dancers took to the stage, a loading dock at the Water Tower Pavilion on Broad Avenue, for the Best of Memphis Dance Concert. The event was the finale of an eight-week series titled “Dance on Broad.” The series launched with a performance by nationally acclaimed Camille A. Brown & Dancers from New York. For the preceding six weeks, the series featured community dance parties, which provided beginner dance lessons in Salsa, Swing, Line, Afro House, Zumba and Bollywood. The finale served to showcase the strength of dance in Memphis. Participants in the Dance on Broad closing concert were from Ballet Memphis, Collage dance Collective, New Ballet Ensemble, Collage Youth Ensemble, Company d of Memphis, Subculture Royalty Studio, Studio 413, Golden Highsteppers, DanzHouse Company, Prancing Tigerettes and Out Loud Artistry, Inc. Developed as a way to celebrate dance, and raise awareness of dance a means to strengthen communities, more than 3,000 people attended the series.

Memphis in May Meeting and Volunteer Celebration

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Art on Tap

ART ON TAP

Cultured Brew s

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eptember in Memphis marks the beginning of several beer tasting events all over the city. With several new craft-breweries popping up around town, the options for locally made beer seem to be getting better every year. Dixon Gallery & Gardens kicked-off the beer tasting season with their annual Art on Tap event, a beer tasting fund-raiser with a big pinch of fine art thrown into the mix. Held on location, guests filed into the courtyard of the breathtaking museum and gardens of the Dixon with small tasting glasses in hand, ready for incredible food, music and brews! Attendees jumped to the matter at hand: trying the myriad of beer options. From national names like Budweiser to local breweries like High Cotton Co., Art on Tap had all your brewski bases covered. New guy on the block, Bernoulli Brew Werks, a home brewing supply shop, offered up samples of their 3..2..1..blAMBER, Hot Pepper Hefe, Red Ryder and Rype and Hoppy. Memphis’ favorite, Boscos Squared, handed out tastes of their Boscos Famous Flaming Stone, Boscos Midtown Brown and their Gold Metal Winning Boscos Hefewizen. The midtown restaurant paired their outstanding beer selection with helpings of German grits. Bluff City Brewers (BCB) and Memphis Brewers’ Association (MBA) represented the city’s best brew clubs and associations. BCB gave attendees a taste of autumn with their Apple Ginger Hard Cider while, at the same time, gave guests a chance to say goodbye to summer with samples of a Ginger Hibiscus Saison and Watermelon Wheat. MBA brought a range of beer selections from their English Brown Ale Barrel Aged Old Ale to their Kinzer’s Cream Ale. After some heavy beer tasting, good food is a must. Thankfully, there were many food stations placed here and there throughout the courtyard. Gus’s Fried Chicken hit the food-cravingsball out of the park with their hot and spicy friend chicken and catfish. Annual favorite, One & Only BBQ handed out pieces of barbecued chicken. Rock‘n Dough Pizza had the longest continual food line of the night, because what else goes better with beer then fresh wood-fired pizza? Attendees who had enough of the heat and wanted to take in some art were welcomed into the gallery to view the Charles Courtney Curran exhibit as well as the permanent collection, always an impressive sight no matter if you’ve seen it once or a million times. Inside, there was also a wine tasting room provided by Buster’s Liquors & Wines. Local band, Hollywood, supplied the upbeat music for the evening, and had everyone dancing in line as they waited for their next taste. No one left Art on Tap without a new favorite brew and full stomachs. Watch out for Dixon’s next annual and beloved fund-raiser, Art on Fire, on October 25.

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Jamahl and Rosalyn Brown

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Evelyn Bussenger, Robert Clark Jr., Jessica May and Robert Clark Sr.

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Richard Fudge and Katie Williams

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Hattiloo Theatre Grand Opening

Cooper-Young Festival Kickoff Party

Bridge and More

Street Dog Foundation Benefit

Laurelwood Shopping Center celebrated the Grand Opening of the Hattiloo Theatre in the theatre’s brand new location in the Memphis theatre district of Overton Square. Hattiloo Theatre is one of the few nonprofit, independent African American theatres in America. The theatre’s mission is to celebrate cultural contributions African Americans have made to our nation’s historical and artistic landscape. During the pre-show performance, guests mingled in the new building while nibbling on light hors d’oeuvres paired with several cocktails. After taking a look at the modern theatre, attendees settled into the premiere performance of “Once on this Island.” After the show, the audience was given the chance to meet and greet the cast members as well as meet the founder and executive director of the Hattiloo, Ekundayo Bandele.

Residents throughout the city came together for the CooperYoung Festival Kickoff Party at Haizlip Studios to gear-up for the one of the most anticipated events of the year in the arts district of Memphis, the 27th annual Evolve Bank & Trust CooperYoung Festival. Alchemy Memphis supplied the fare, and attendees enjoyed chicken salad topped with Benton’s Country Bacon in phyllo dough cups along with an assortment of cheese and tomato salad. The party also announced the festival’s 2014 poster and artist: Jan Hankins and his poster depicting an aerial view of the Cooper Young intersection circa 1940. The artwork will hang in the home building of Evolve Bank & Trust. Taking place in the historic neighborhood of Cooper and Young, the festival is hosted by the Cooper Young Business Association and brings together hundreds of artists as well as musicians from around the country to celebrate the creativity and culture of the city.

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary enjoyed games and a light lunch at the Germantown Presbyterian Church. On the menu for the afternoon was Bridge, Mah Johngg and other cards games. The afternoon also included a jewelry sale. After several hands and rounds, the women enjoyed salads from Panera Bread Company. Tickets were drawn for special door prizes and the few lucky ladies drawn won gift certificates to Soul Fish Café and Booksellers at Laurelwood. The beautiful orchid centerpieces were also given away as prizes.

Chiwawa Restaurant hosted a benefit and adoption party for the Street Dog Foundation, a nonprofit that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes stray and abandoned dogs. Held appropriately on National Hot Dog Day and at a restaurant that shares a canine name, the benefit was held on the patio of Chiwawa, and, despite the rain, supporters of Street Dog and dog lovers all over Memphis came out to visit with the pups and enjoy the special prices on hot dogs and drinks at Chiwawa. The adoptable dogs happily accepted the attention that the attendees paid them. Dog lovers also enjoyed a very special wine sold by Chiwawa called ONEHOPE, which donates half of its proceeds to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Chiwawa event coordinator, Cody Dalrymple, said, “We hope to continue these adoption parties and continue working with the Street Dog Foundation.”

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Clarice Cox, Ann Phillips, Helen Cox and Diane Davis

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Taylor Fuller and Keith Fuller

Anne Bolas, Annette Poole, Rhea Schnabel, Becky Dickey, Nelda Hamer, Arlene Southern and Fran Jabbour

Alli Echlin with Flo Rida

Jan Hankins and Dick Wittenburg

Jed and Leanne McQuown

Eula Horrell and Susan Madden

Bobby Echlin and Vince Marotta

Linda Miller, Barbara Lapides and Edie Sellers

Anthony and Molly Clark with Soleil Turnage

Jeane Umbreit and Tiara Baker

Cory Prewitt and Meg Parker

Kate Schurch and Scott Van Der Jagt

Gyneka Awards Gala

Rock ‘N’ Wild Picnic

UNCF Gala Concert

From tinkering on the piano to posing for photos to sharing stories about visiting funeral homes with the King, the “oohs and aahs” Priscilla Presley met with at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens were well earned. Presley was in town for Elvis Week, this year with a special surprise. Presley, along with Christopher Ameruoso, just released a new book, “Shades of Elvis,” which features photographs of celebrities donning Elvis’ iconic eyewear. In a private event, Presley shared with Dixon members the making of the book and the effect Elvis’ gold-rimmed shades had on the likes of Robert Plant, Buzz Aldrin, David Copperfield and Johnny Depp. Members could special order the book at the event, but more importantly, they had the chance to visit and have their photo taken with the graceful Presley. “Any day Priscilla Presley is at the Dixon is a special day indeed,” Dixon director Kevin Sharp said. Presley said she was proud of her efforts to keep Graceland going and open it to visitors. “It was June 1982 when we opened it to the public, and 19 million people have visited it. It gave birth to a new industry in Memphis – tourism. That home meant everything to Elvis,” she said.

As of 2011, women have written only 12 percent of plays nominated for Tony Awards. On the other hand, women purchase 69 percent of theater tickets. A group of local women theater professionals have stepped in with the resolve to try to remedy this imbalance on a regional level. In 2012, playwright producer and former comedian Ruby O’Gray along with performer and producer Karen Moore put their heads together and created the Women’s Theatre Festival of Memphis. The idea was to create an event that acknowledged and awarded women who have contributed to the world of theater and to showcase pieces written, directed and performed by women about women. The second of these biennial presentations was held in various playhouses around the theater district of Overton Square with the Gyneka Awards Gala kicking off the festival at The Circuit Playhouse. Awards were presented to six women and one man who work in local theater, including: Pat Bogan of Playhouse on the Square, Julia “Cookie” Ewing of Rhodes College, Debbie Litch of Theatre Memphis, actor and singer Naomi Williams Moody, Dorothy Gunther Pugh of Ballet Memphis, playwright Celeste Bedford Walker, and Pat Halloran of The Orpheum Theatre.

Most Saturdays, local Memphians pack up their reusable bags, gather up their grocery lists and even load up the puppy for a morning of shopping at the Memphis Farmers Market Downtown. Recently, the local produce enthusiasts included blankets and lawn chairs in the mix and decided to make a whole day of it. The second annual Rock ‘N’ Wild Picnic was held onsite at Central Station Pavilion in an effort to raise money for the seven-month outdoors market. The market relies heavily on volunteers and donations. Events such as the picnic are held throughout the year to help out with costs. “This event will go towards our operating costs,” market director Allison Cook said. Two other events include the Barnyard Ball in November and the Crop Hop 5K in June. Instead of tables with vendors selling greens, the pavilion, which recently experienced an expansion thanks to grants and fund-raising efforts, was dotted with blankets, lawn chairs, and supporters in hats and sunglasses sipping wine and beer and snacking on food from local food trucks including So Fresh Mobile Juice Bar and Rock’n Dough Pizza. Misti Rae treated everyone to her harmonies, followed by country band Big Barton. Amurica provided their unique funky photo booth. “It’s been a great turnout. We’re really happy with it,” Cook said.

The opportunity to hear “Rock Steady” and “And the Beat Goes On” by founding members of The Whispers was reason enough to suit up in black tie and long flowing gowns, but to do so in the name of education was a nobrainer for local Memphians. The 2014 Hank Aaron Celebrity Sports Weekend culminated in just that – the 44th annual United Negro College Fund Gala Concert (UNCF) at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. The gold, platinum and doubleplatinum-selling band headlined this year’s grand finale, regaling audience members dressed in their finest regalia. The R&B legends shared the stage with local favorite John Williams and the A440 Band, alongside the winners of the Beacon of Hope Award. The award is given to individuals or organizations that have shown outstanding support to LeMoyne-Owen College over the years. The Saturday-night gala was held to benefit the college as well as the UNCF, which offers more than 60,000 students each year the opportunity to attend college including scholarships at LeMoyne-Owen. The concert was just one of the main attractions for the three-day fundraiser.

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Jeanette Toney and Mary Bowen

Christopher and Allison Cook with Terre Gorham and Frank Howell

Lamar and Dana McCubbin Ruby O’Gray, Sherronda Johnson, Olivia Johnson and Karen Moore

Greg Hickman and Gordon Fykes

Eleanor Scott and Keitha Scott

Herronda Harley and Anika Isom

Lindsey Widick and Drew Fleming

Mary Holmes, Sheila Coleman and Addielene Fields

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“An Evening with Priscilla Presley”

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Backstage Bash

Great Wine Performances

Heartlight

The Savior Foundation Benefit

Entering through the stage door on Beale Street, guests had a chance to feel the thrill of what it is like for musicians and members of touring companies to be hosted at Memphis’ historic The Orpheum Theatre. Approximately 200 attendees of the Backstage Bash event began an evening behind the scenes where they were treated like stars themselves. A dinner buffet featuring Memphis classics such as Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Central BBQ, Majestic Grille and desserts from Frost Bake Shop set the stage for casual dining as guests mingled through the back of the house. A specialty cocktail called a “Mississippi Mule” made with honeysuckle vodka was available, and Buster’s Liquors & Wines provided ginger beer. Beer was also available from Ghost River Brewing and Memphis Made Brewing Company. Playing on the famed Orpheum stage, The Super 5 performed as the evening’s musical entertainment. Luxury suite tickets to some of the upcoming shows in The Orpheum’s 2014-2015 season were auctioned off and put a spotlight on performances ranging from Crosby, Stills and Nash, Gladys Knight and Widespread Panic, to touring Broadway productions of “A Christmas Story” and “Once.” Artwork featuring downtown scenes was in high demand, with the leading role played by an original painting by Billy Moore depicting the Backstage Bash. Leanne McQuown, vice president of development for The Orpheum said,“We were pleased with the local support shown for this inaugural event. Proceeds benefit The Orpheum Theatre’s mission-based programming.”

Billed as “A wine tasting in 10 acts” and sponsored by Macy’s and Experience Art in Memphis, the seventh annual Great Wine Performances at the Playhouse on the Square featured 10 stations spread out throughout the playhouse lobby, upstairs and in the trap room beneath the stage. At each station guests were greeted by a group of in-costume actors that represented a specific play, and were offered a unique wine and cheese pairing that not only complimented each other, but the play that the actors represented. Patrons that correctly guessed all 10 plays, as well as the year it ran at the Playhouse, were entered into a contest. Highlights included, Freakshow Cabernet paired with mustard seed-infused cheddar at the Rocky Horror Show station, Magician Riesling paired with Saint-Andre cheese at the Fantastiks station and Alice White Chardonnay paired with Gruyère cheese at the Alice in Wonderland station.

“I feel a certain spirit in Memphis that makes me want to rally the troops.” These words were spoken by a man who was endowed with a standing ovation at the end of his speech. Dr. Geoffrey Canada was the keynote speaker at Agape Child and Family Services’ annual Hearthlight event. Agape is a nonprofit focused on providing children and families with healthy homes. Dr. Canada shared his experiences founding and leading Harlem Children’s Zone in Harlem, NY, an organization that advocates for over 12,000 children on their journey through school and every oscillating stage of growing up. His key advice was that we can not keep doing what hasn’t worked; instead, we must continually find new ways to help. Agape has already begun exploring new territory by partnering with Shelby County Schools and Achievement School District through implementing mentors, after-school programs and extra curricular activities in order to increase children’s self-esteem. The Heartlight 2014 event began with food, drinks and socializing and ended with a spectacular, upbeat performance by CeCe Winans, a 10-time Grammy Award winning gospel singer whose songs for the night integrated a rock-infused sound.

Hollywood Feed’s 5502 Poplar Avenue location hosted a block party benefiting The Savior Foundation, a local nonprofit committed to rescuing, rehabilitating and placing neglected and abused animals into loving homes. The event was attended by hundreds of supporters and their furry companions. “We’re thrilled with the support from the community and from Hollywood Feed,” said Mario Chiozza, founder of The Savior Foundation. “The funds raised will go directly to help pay medical bills and other critical expenses to save animals in need.” For information about The Savior Foundation, visit thesaviorfoundation.org.

Story and Photos by Patrick Lantrip

Story Submitted Photos by Molly Okeon

Mario Chiozza with Little Man

Story and Photos by Emily Anderson

Julia Masotti and Jessica Graham

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Monty and Mary Jo Raulerson with Cheyenne

Anna George, Mark George and Melina George

Micky Clippard, Mike Harless and Jan and Fred Hamilton

Barbie Clayton, Jody Koster, Amy Hertz and Missy Carter Kelsie Humphreys, Brittany Gilliam, Remy Andrews and Jacob Greene Beverly Pitts, Mattilyn Barnes and Shaundra Gatewood

Casey Malone and Lisa Sloan

Marek Zurowski and Madeline Glenn Thomas

Charles Bradley, Scharion Bradley and Gail Bradley

Elise Michaelson and Rena Chiozza

AFTER HOURS

After Hours A photo collage of the latest business happenings

Carol Peretz Trunk Show at Kittie Kyle

Eclectic Eye Stylish Saturday Pop-Up Shop

Carol Furr, Cindy Gambrell and Julie Saxton

Brad Carroll, Lindy Faulkner, Sara Scott, Kyra Condo and Charles Stanley

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Kyra Condo and and Sandra Burke

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Cindy Gambrell and Carol Peretz

Pomp & Posie One-Year Anniversary

Elizabeth Cawein and Apryl Potter

Nita Hartley and Cyndii Joe Hartley

Aimee Hall and Rachel Motta

Jennifer Dickerson

Lauren Barker and Lori Johnson

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By Dennis Phillippi

they have recently expanded. Having dispensed with whatever foods you want to savor one last time, what else would you do? We tend to take for granted that we have one of the mightiest rivers in the world rolling by within a short drive of or homes. Even those who happen to have a river view from either their downtown office or their downtown home often forget to notice the majestic Mississippi. I’d suggest revisiting one of Memphis’ best-kept secrets: our amazing sunsets over the river. Watching the sun wink into the flood plain of Arkansas is breathtaking almost every single evening, and most of us never even think to take advantage of it. Weather permitting; this

Not that there’s anything wrong with our Elvis legacy, but it’s nice that we have other things for out-of-towners to know about, even if they’re under the impression that Calipari still coaches the Tigers and the Grizzlies aren’t any good. You can take that opportunity to educate the poor souls and run down Calipari. might be the perfect place to go to town on that barbecue and fried chicken. You may want to pair it with something from one of the many excellent local breweries that have popped up in the last few years. In case you haven’t noticed, we have all kinds of great locally made beers these days. The Bluffs, Memphis food, Memphis hooch, and a knockout sunset, that’s a good dose of the River City. I wouldn’t argue with a Memphian wanting to take a last stroll down Beale Street. Most Memphians rarely ever see Beale Street unless it’s on the way to or

from the FedEx Forum. As it happens, I’ve been announcing a show at a place on Beale Street once a month. Again, I can’t say the name of the place because it would seem like a conflict of interest, but it’s a fun, family friendly show you could probably Google in a matter of seconds and come enjoy a great time. My point is, I’ve been on Beale a lot lately, and I have to admit I had forgotten that there is a lot of fun to be had there. If nothing else, go watch the tumbling kids risk their young necks for your spare change. And, you know, take in a show. If the timing were right, of course, you’d want to take in a Tigers, Grizzlies, or Redbirds game. For almost all of the year you could take in some of the Memphis sports renaissance that’s been happening for the last couple of decades. Thankfully, when I travel and tell people I’m from Memphis, it’s our sports that are most often mentioned, and not the last King of Rock and Roll. Not that there’s anything wrong with our Elvis legacy, but it’s nice that we have other things for outof-towners to know about, even if they’re under the impression that Calipari still coaches the Tigers and the Grizzlies aren’t any good. You can take that opportunity to educate the poor souls and run down Calipari. If you think you may never come back, you probably should take this chance to visit Graceland. I mention them by name because, well, it’s Graceland, America’s second most famous house. And, let’s be honest fellow Memphians, it’s very possible you’ve never been there. I’ve been to the Mansion many times, but it has always been for work. When you have something like this in your metaphoric backyard, you’re unlikely to have checked it out. People in Anaheim don’t go to Disneyland. People who live in New Orleans don’t go to Bourbon Street, and, generally speaking, the crowds at Elvis’ old pad are from Belgium and Greece, not Fraser and Arlington. Go and be surprised by what a touching experience it is. Whatever it is, if you’re the kind of person who is all cloud, and no silver lining, and you think you’re going to die on vacation, make sure and enjoy the city you love before you leave...and crash into the ocean.

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ecently a friend of mine went on the trip of a lifetime. He went to Hawaii for his nephew’s wedding. It could’ve been a cousin or maybe someone else’s nephew, I wasn’t paying that much attention. After he got back he made everyone look at all the terrific pictures he’d taken, listen to his stories about tropical paradise stuff, and generally make all of us feel lousy for not getting to go to Hawaii. Then he casually dropped into the conversation that he had made sure to get some barbecue and local fried chicken before he left “In case I didn’t make it back.” Let’s set aside what a paranoid thing that is to be thinking about right before you go to spend ten days in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and let’s, instead, focus on how cool it is that he, a native Memphian, wanted to be sure he experienced some of his favorite Memphis things just in case he ends up joining Amelia Earhart at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Imagine first that you, like my friend and I, love Memphis. Second, imagine that you are leaving on a trip from which you might not return. What uniquely Memphis things would you want to do before you left? His thought of making sure to get some barbecue is as good a place to start. It really doesn’t matter which barbecue you were to get. A barbecue place can’t survive very long in this town if it doesn’t have good barbecue. They can’t survive if they even have mediocre barbecue. Just pick your favorite and make sure to swing by before you head to the airport. The fried chicken thing is another one that we agreed on. Not that Memphis has all that many great places for fried chicken, but there is one local chain that is not to be missed. Because of complicated reasons, I can’t say their name here; it might appear as if I’m angling for some free food, but you know the place, and you don’t want to leave Memphis without one last taste, unless you’re going to one of the cities where

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“The Tonic-meister”

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SVP remembers “The Tonic-meister,” Memphis bartender Lafayette Draper, who passed away September 7, 2014. Pictured here in our November, 1998 issue, Lafayette was a long time favorite of thousands of partygoers over the years. He began his mixology career in the 1950s at the old Elks Club on Adams Avenue and, for many years, was a beloved fixture at Memphis Country Club. Lafayette was regarded for his charming and meticulous service and unequaled in his knowledgeable skills for libations. We will miss you, Lafayette! PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVE ROBERTS 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.