A PRIL 2017
Heart Vintage901 Hands B o d ine of Hope Bas h Ball
100 E. Parkway Ave. N.
270 S. Mendenhall
$1,100,000
$597,700
Memphis, TN 38104
Memphis, TN 38117
Capture the essence of Midtown Memphis in this beautifully restored European Chateau near historic Overton Park. Inside the gates of this majestic 1.25 acre property is the primary residence along with a separate 2-story guest home and detached 4 car garage. Hardwood floors, detailed millwork, magnificent staircase and original stained-glass windows greet you upon entering the foyer of this turn of the century home. 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 1 half bath in the main home. Updated kitchen and bathrooms are among many of the modern luxuries you will enjoy. Fireplaces in the dining room, living room, billiard/play room and master suite. The breakfast room and solarium overlook a private backyard oasis in the city complete with a heated gunite pool and bath. The guest house features a full size kitchen, den, laundry, 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Renovations include new mechanical systems and back-up generator.
Cathy Banks
You have to see this stunning renovation of main house AND separate guest quarters. This really cool home is larger than it looks. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths all on 1 level. Fabulous open gourmet kitchen with gas cooking, stainless steel appliances, beautiful counter tops, farm and vegetable sink. Dining room, living room with fireplace, den with stone fireplace, all season room with fireplace, gorgeous hardwood floors, huge master suite with luxury master bath. Huge deck. Gated property with 4 car garage and plenty of off street parking. This is a must see! Check out TRUE video on YouTube.
Jason Gaia
Bill Maury
901.338.6677 901.606.2374 jason@jasongaiateam.com banks@collins-maury.com
901.751.4311 maury@collins-maury.com
Jeanne Billings 901.493.0100
Marina Brinkley 901.619.4023
Laura Clark 901.483.2117
Ginger Coggins 901.496.1477
Jessica Collier 901.832.4294
Cynthia Davis 901.574.2792
Laura Flaniken 901.508.1682
Nancy Huddleston 901.484.9494
Sally Isom 901.219.8882
Lexie Johnston 901.489.1604
Barbara McKee 901.277.2821
Lauren Moore 901.240.1029
Tim O’Hare 901.609.5038
Janey Outlan 901.487.3292
Milleigh Pearson 901.550.1517
Silvana Piadade 901.647.6661
Kendra Robson 901.610.1851
Kathleen Sampson 901.359.6800
Rejane Slocum 901.652.8798
Caitlin Soma 980.329.7700
Diane Stribling 901.831.1755
Sissy Vaughan 901.870.6227
Barbara Weir 901.412.7489
Mary Williams 901.283.7795
Collins-Maury.com
Considering a career in real estate? Visit SellRealEstateWithUs.com
5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
3276 Goodman Rd. Southaven,MS 38672 662.548.2000
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
Contents April 2017
Features
From the Editor • 8 Emily Adams Keplinger
Signature Memphis • 10
Holidays herald Spring
Ken Hall
A man with a big heart for the community
StreetSeen • 22 Sona Amroyan-Peric Putting her skill center stage, Sona Amroyan-Peric has a tailor-made profession
StreetSeen • 28 Chris Canale Proving everything “old is new again,” Chris Canale honors his family's traditions
Events
RSVPhillippi • 49 Love My Chicken, Love Me Dennis Phillippi offers proof that cooking is not a genderspecific talent
Boyd and Charlotte Gillespie
Heart Ball • 12 An elegant celebration of life
Ashley Coffield and Nathan Tipton
Memphis Moments • 18, 20, 24, 30, 40, 44, 45 & 46
Tara Goecks and Bram Bors-Koefoed
Hands of Hope Gala • 36 The Exchange Club Family Center's largest fundraiser
Emma Crystal and John Gilmore
Vintage901 • 32 A new festival celebrating wine, food and music
Anthony Comella and Jacque Greenwoodin
Bodine Bash • 42 Support for an independent educational experience
Cover Photo
Amy and Kevin Johnston at Heart Ball Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo
Broad Avenue Water Tower Photo by Krista Geyer
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April 2017
RSVP Staff Volume XXII • Number IV
April 2017 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Suzanne Thompson Cozza Virginia Davis Dennis Phillippi Rebekah Yearout Art Director Krista Geyer
Chris Pugh
Account Executive 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.
Photographers Shelle Cleland Don Perry Steve Roberts Rebekah Yearout Account Executives Chris Pugh Kim Johnson 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 publisher@rsvpmagazine.com
Kim Johnson
Account Executive Kim has worked in advertising for thirty years in the Memphis area, starting with The Memphis Business Journal, radio, television and now back to print. She loves meeting new friends as well as helping the old ones with their advertising needs. Going to movies, shopping, cooking and playing with her dog are among her favorite activities! RSVP feels like an extension of her family.
Visit us online at:
www.rsvpmagazine.com
interior design
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linens
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gifts
Stones & Pearls Jewelry
Wedding Registry Now online at
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 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Krista Geyer RSVP Memphis Magazine
lisamallorydesign.com 3080 Poplar Avenue • 901.452.5575 • lisamallorydesign.com
THE SHOPS OF CHICKASAW OAKS 6
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Copyright 2017 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
Art Director
Krista has spent most her entire life in the Mid-South area. She moved home after earning her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University and is thrilled to be able to work on something as “Memphis” as RSVP Magazine. When not working you can probably find Krista at Shelby Farms with her husband and her dogs or riding her horses.
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From the Editor
April
I
t’s a pretty good bet that when you say “the holiday season,” most people think of the period between Thanksgiving (or even Halloween) and New Year’s. But we’re smack dab in the middle of another season that includes its own set of festive occasions. With springtime comes these causes for celebration—Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter.
STYLE I N STO R E
It seems an ever-growing number of nonprofit organizations have started hosting Mardi Gras-themed events. And why not? According to historians, Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to celebrations of spring and the birth of new life. In modern times, the colorful purple, gold and green parties are known for lively music, flavorful foods and all-round spirited camaraderie. That combination is sure to be a crowd pleaser and in Memphis, thousands of people turned out to support a variety of causes while they “let the good times roll.” The “wearing of the green” brought out more revelers in our fair city, as St. Patrick’s Day parades wound their way down Beale Street and through the Cooper-Young area. While we may not turn our river green like the folks in Chicago, we did light up our Big River Crossing with an incredible emerald green glow, the reflection of which made it seem like The Big Muddy was showing shades of shamrocks. If you missed this sight, you can still catch a glimpse of it on our Facebook page (RSVP Memphis Magazine). Unlike most holidays, Easter doesn’t fall on a set date every year. No, the way to determine the date for Easter is a bit trickier. The holiday is celebrated on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal equinox on March 21 (meaning it can range anywhere between March 22 and April 25). This year Easter will be celebrated on April 16. And, whether your celebration includes sunrise services, egg hunts, baskets of goodies or other traditions, we hope you will join us as we hop into Spring.
THIS M O N T H AT SA D D L E C R E E K
APRIL 1ST
PAWS FOR A CAUSE
APRIL 3RD
JOSEPHINE CIRCLE
APRIL 20 – 22
Pet Adoption Event
Fashion Show
MOONLIGHT MADNESS Sidewalk Sale 901-753-4484
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Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
The elegant, refined flavors of French cuisine combined with diverse Japanese ingredients and modern interpretations of traditional techniques.
NOW TAKING EASTER AND MOTHER’S DAY RESERVATIONS! 901.454.3926 • izakayamemphis.com 1433 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Signature Memphis
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April
Ken Hall Gift Officer for Church Health Your Best Quality: Resilience Hometown: Olive Branch, MS Best Memphis Hangout: Wild Bill’s Blues Club Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Levitt Shell Your Lucky Charm: Frosted, they are magically delicious Your Most Annoying Habit: Singing pieces of old songs all the time Who Would Play You
in a
probably end up being Al Franken
Movie: I’d hope for Richard Dreyfuss or Dustin Hoffman, but it would
First Car You Owned: 1968 Chevy Nova which I inherited from my aunt in about 1978; in ‘68 she moved to Nigeria to serve as a missionary and left the car parked under a tree in my grandparent’s yard. Amazing what tree sap can do to a paint job in a decade!
Favorite Place
to
Travel: Places that are engaging. So far I’ve checked the Chautauqua Institute,
Sundance Film Festival, and Newport Jazz Festival off my bucket list. Hoping to make it to Cardiff, Wales in August 2018 for the Eisteddfod music & cultural festival.
Proudest Moment of Your Life: Co-founding the Grand Krewe of Ptolemy, re-organizing the Beale Street Brass Note Walk of Fame, pushing for the restoration of Zion Cemetery and through Hands on Memphis helping many people find their engagement in the community What’s
your history of working with nonprofits:
It began as a work study assignment in the Development Office at CBC and one opportunity led to another—Youth Villages, Cotton Museum, Hands on Memphis and more. In addition to jobs, I have served on several nonprofit boards—local, state and national—and learned so much.
Best Thing About Working
for a
Nonprofit: The people, especially those who
volunteer. I have been a volunteer, also recruited and managed volunteers. Most of the friends I stay in touch with are those with whom I have been in the trenches of service. Shared values are a great foundation for friendship.
What
you would like people to know about your organization:
Photo by Steve Roberts
Church Health serves a broader array of people than you might think in Shelby County and the footprint is larger still. Through our work with other communities seeking to replicate our model, there are now some 40 clinics operating across the US. Plus about 15,000 faith community nurses worldwide look to Church Health for curriculum and best practices training. Not bad for a little old house on a corner— and now a very big house at Crosstown!
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Heart Ball
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Heart Ball
B
Dr. Linda Kennard and Dr. Joel Johnson
Glenn and Dana Clark
An Affair to Remember
lack tie events happen in Memphis almost year-round, but when it’s a red tie happening, you can bet it’s going to be something special. The 41st annual Mid-South Heart Ball, held in the grand ballroom of the Peabody Hotel was a red tie affair to remember. Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the U.S., claiming nearly 800,000 lives each year, and this evening was held to proudly honor and celebrate those individuals who have decided to have a positive impact in fighting this deadly disease. The nearly 700 guests in attendance were greeted at the mezzanine entrance with glasses of champagne and ushered into the social reception and silent auction. Items up for bid included fine wines, framed artwork and travel packages to great getaways like Panama, Antigua and St. Lucia. Also offered were dinners at fine Memphis restaurants like Folks Folly and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Roundtrip tickets from Southwest Airlines and even an autographed guitar from Alan Jackson. There were passes to the Brooks Museum, The Georgia Aquarium and Disney World, as well as weekends at Henderson Beach Spa and Horseshoe Casino Hotel in Tunica. Kendra Scott Jewelry was on hand with a Mystery Jewelry Pull and the chance to take home some fantastic jewelry for an $80 donation to the American Heart Association. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Red bowties were offered at the door by Mo’s Bows and a photo booth by Hot Shots was available for those who wished to take home a personal memento of the evening. Dinner was served in the Grand Ballroom. It was a mouth-watering three course affair that started with a hearts of romaine salad with merlot spiced poached pear tomatoes, cucumbers and candied walnuts and a Stilton dressing, followed by filet mignon with port wine sauce and seared black cod with Morel mushroom sauce, cocoa bean puree, brocollini and ovenfried tomatoes along with freshly baked specialty rolls and breads with sweet cream butter. Dessert was a trio-chocolate mousse, flourless chocolate cake and pecan pie with a key lime tart. After dinner, guests danced into the night to the sounds of live music by Burning Las Vegas, sponsored by Stern Cardiovascular Foundation. FedEx sponsored this year’s Open Your Heart tribute to 2017 Honoree John Daniel and his wife Leslie Daniel. Other sponsors included SunTrust Bank, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, First Tennessee Foundation, NexAir, Dunavant Enterprises, Methodist Lebonheur Healthcare, Legacy Wealth Management and Regions Bank. The 2017 Mid-South Heart Ball broke attendance and fundraising records for the American Heart Association and made great strides towards improving the health landscape in our local community.
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Amy and Dr. David Wolford
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Randi and Stuart Harrington
Ryan and Laura Stephens
Dr. Jimmy and Lisa Guyton
Jana and John Pettey
Fred and Pam Montesi with Sarah and Dennis Norton
Steve Gubin and Rachel Belz
Heart Ball
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Schiller Jerome and Manoucheka Thermitus
Steve Frantz and Jamie Hulet
Emily and Tom Love
Patricia and Todd Walker
Ken and Debbie Edmundson
J.P. and Kathryn Hickey with Carie and Chris Alley
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Allison Williamson and Stephanie Uhlhorn
Titus and Lisa Driver
Lana Broyles and Iyonia Boyce
Robin and Patrick Taylor
Darrell Doane with Leslie and John Daniel and Paulo Teixeira
April
•
Heart Ball
Thomas and Janice Booker
Greg and Melodie Usdan
Joe Gonzales and Karine Guerrier
“Helping set your table and choose the perfect gift for more than 40 years”
Laurelwood Shopping Center
4538 Poplar Avenue | Memphis, Tennessee | 901.763.0700 | Troy Parkes and Caroline Harris
April 2017
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Memphis Moment
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April
Cooper-Young St. Patrick’s Day Parade Wearing of the Green
A
joyous conglomerate of color, sound and motion rolled down Cooper St. on the feast day of Patrick, patron saint of Ireland. Co-hosted by Memphis Irish Society and Celtic Crossing Irish Pub & Restaurant, the parade drew a cheering crowd along several blocks of the Midtown thoroughfare. Memphis Police mounted patrol led the way, horses stepping in time to the Wolf River Pipes and Drums behind them. Banners were hoisted, bicycle bells ding-dinged and people strode, rode, scootered and skated the route. The color green sprouted everywhere. One bearded bare-legged member of Memphis Gaelic Athletic Association, gripping a club banner in one hand and a hurling stick in the other, accessorized his green-plaid kilt with a helmet and orange-and-gray Nikes. Other participants included the Memphis Grizzlies’ Grizz Crew, Revolutions Bike CoOp cyclists, Memphis Police Department, Memphis Second Line Jazz Band, OUTMemphis, Memphis Made and Mempops. Amid the throng zoomed one of those elusive leprechauns, welcoming all and likely mulling some mischief for later.
Bebe Fetzer-Gill, Emily Hefley, Evie Fetzer-Gill and Cindy Ware
Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Front row: Noey Hiner, Ainsley French and Tyler French Back row: Marda French, Chris French, Josh Bornick, Kenny Hiner, Joe Norman, Derek Stine and Brian Kee
John-Michael Alderson and Diane Duke
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Vega, Olivia, Candice and Porter Lowry
Lamarr Chatman
Adele Hunt-Concon, Darwin Concon, Madeline Phillips, Phyllis Davis, George Malone and Yvonne Phillips
Shannon Maris, Drake Danley and Jack Danley
Antonio Jenkins, Sarah Cobb and Laura Marsh
Katherine Siano, Kate Cook and Stephanie Cook
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Faith Harris and Jada Vail
Zeus the dog and Seth Palmer
Gild the Lily
Shop the new Delighted Collection and meet designer Kelly Wynne
Whether it’s Mother’s Day or Graduation Day, we’ve got your back!
Thursday, April 27th 5-8 pm The Shops at Saddle Creek Suite 102 Germantown, TN 901.755.6909
.
5101 Sanderlin, Suite 112 Memphis, TN 38117 901.682.8277
@indigo_gt
Since 1993
901- 866-8525 1068 Cresthaven Road, Memphis, TN 38119 www.utplasticsurgeons.com
April 2017
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Memphis Moment
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April
Hearts for Hope Benefiting Memphis Athletic Ministries
T
he 2017 Hearts For Hope Gala was held in the opulent southern splendor of The Woodland Hills Ballroom. This year’s event raised funds for Memphis Athletic Ministries in support of their important work with children in the Mid-South. As guests arrived, they were serenaded by David Collins on the acoustic guitar and presented with flutes of champagne. They were then ushered in to peruse nearly 100 items on the silent auction tables. Among the treasures up for bids were autographed guitars from George Strait, James Taylor, and B.B. King. There was artwork and fine wine, as well as a framed and autographed portrait of Carrie Fisher. Festivities also included casino games and dancing to The Soul Shockers. Notables in attendance included Memphis Police Director Mike Rallings, Chief Deputy Floyd Bonner of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, and Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland. Special Guest Emcee was Local 24’s Amy Speropoulos.
Scott and Amy Speropoulos
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Dan and Alyssa Turbeville
Mimi and Gib Vestal
Randie and Glyn Moore
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Doug and Candace Davis
Nathan and Suzanna Barnhart
John and Amber Turner
Paaton Karel and Stone Pannell
Lance and May Chapman
Lesli and Juan Rosario
Jacque Trobee and Diane Laird
Paula Payne and Eddie Albonetti
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Sona Amroyan-Peric A Fitting Profession Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
April
• StreetSeen
W
hen she moved to the United States almost 16 years ago, Sona AmroyanPeric, 36, had no idea that her talents would put her center stage in the Memphis cultural scene. As a native of Yerevan, Armenia, she moved to Memphis with her family when her father accepted a position as an aircraft mechanic with Northwest Airlines. At the time, Sona was ready to embark on building her career, but spoke almost no English. “I could say, ‘Hello’ and ‘Bye,’ but that was about it,” recalled Sona. “Knowing that my family was moving to Memphis, I quickly completed my education in order to move with them.” In Armenia, Sona had been taking classes simultaneously to complete both high school and “university.” As she was finishing high school at the age of 16, she said she had already recognized her passion—sewing. “Everyone has some sort of natural creative talent,” said Sona. “I always knew that I wanted to be a fashion designer. My mother and grandmother sewed; therefore, I learned early how to sew and made costumes for dolls of children throughout my entire neighborhood. I remember that I would barter to keep half of the fabric I used for others as their payment for my sewing.” Sona graduated from a fashion design school in Armenia just before her family moved to the United States. When she arrived in Memphis, she found work as a seamstress at David’s Bridal Salon. “Sewing was the only thing I could do job wise,” said Sona. After working at David’s, Sona walked into Ballet Memphis and asked if they had a job for her because she could sew. They hired her as a costume assistant and for nine years she worked for Ballet Memphis while also working in the movie industry, making costumes for movies such as “Walk the Line” and “The Help.” Upon a referral to Opera Memphis, she accepted her current position, Costume Shop Manager. “By that point, I had realized that I enjoyed the theatrical side most, preferring it to sewing for fashion or movies,” said Sona. “However, I never went to design school for costumes, so each show is part of my learning process. I think one of the benefits is that I’m a little freer with my designs. Basically I’m
really shy, but, I’m coming out of my shell in this job now that I’m in charge with full responsibility for my department.” Opera Memphis presents three productions a year and Sona designs the costumes for at least two of them. A costume can cost up $500, if being built from the ground up, and the typical budget per show can cost as much as $30,000 if they have to build a brand new production. “To start my design process, I have to look at the set to determine the period setting,” explained Sona. “Most operas are based in the 1700s, and sometimes a director wants to put their own spin on a classic opera, so the setting could be, for example, the 1920s. My job is to make sure that the costumes fit the director’s vision.” Sketches turn into patterns, which Sona makes all of her own. “My method is a bit unconventional,” explained Sona, “I start to design when I buy the fabric. Then I drape the fabric on a mannequin and let the fabric ‘talk to me.’ That’s how I find the shape of the costume and envision details like buttons and lace. I start with a very simple base and keep things on the minimal side. I don’t try to match the sketch exactly. I prefer to make allowances to better perfect the costumes for each singer.” With an opera averaging 40 people per production, and the principal singers having at least two looks, that makes for a large amount of sewing in a short period of time. “Sometimes we can use the same pants and undershirts for singers who play different roles in different acts,” said Sona. “Fittings usually take place three to four weeks before the opening, and I usually have two weeks to get everything ready for the first dress rehearsal.” Sona’s most recent work was seen in “Pirates
of Penzance.” “We built every single costume and because Pirates was a co-production with Opera Palm Beach, I had to make designs for two separate casts,” said Sona. “I made adjustments to most pieces before they were shipped, but in some cases I had to make an additional set of costumes for the principal singers in Palm Beach. Corsets and other dressmaker details I learned in the fashion industry made it easier for me to alter sizes to fit each person.” Now Sona says that Opera Memphis is looking at sets for their next season. But her fingers will not be idle. In addition to making costumes, she also does about 30 alterations per month for private individuals. She has been doing alterations for formalwear for the last 15 years, but now concentrates on wedding gowns. “It’s just amazing that the girls I did prom and cotillion dresses for back then, are now getting married and are coming to me to get their wedding dresses altered.” said Sona. It seems that Sona has her future all sewn up with a job that is a custom-fit for her creative talents.
April 2017
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Memphis Moment
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Silky O’Sullivan’s Beale Street St. Patrick’s Day Parade Where Everyone is Irish
T
he late Memphis legend Silky Sullivan often spoke of St. Patrick’s Day as the day when “everyone is Irish.” It was in that spirit and under the mist of a soft Irish afternoon that the 44th annual celebration and parade that bears his name was held. Participants and parade officials from as far away as Dublin gathered at Silky’s on Beale to kick off the festivities and sing a few bars of “Molly Malone.” Jerry McLaughlin, who came to town from Ireland, led the chorus on the piano. After a few pints, the procession formed at 4th and Beale and made its merry way down the street. Bagpipers, floats, clowns, cars and limos were joined by Carnival Memphis Boll Weevils, in their special bus. Gifts of colorful beads, doubloons and candy were tossed to hundreds of spectators who lined the route to cheer on the fun. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Robin and Drew Porter
Clarence Connery and Ellen Phillips
Marty and Martha Casper
Dallis Wyatt and Carley Moore
Larry Wenzler, Paige Fair and Amber Solley
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Kim and Ben Lackey
Jessica Pickens, Chance Williams and Marli Craven
Joellyn Sullivan, Rob Mitchell and Barbara Blue
Mark Flanagan and Michael Stephens
Hannah Lackey and Justin Friedmeyer
Sinead Doyle and Aoife Doyle
Geoff Woodman and Betty Reyes
A C A DEM IC . A TH LETIC . ARTISTIC. SUMMER ST. MARY’S. Dis co v e r y o u r c h ild ’ s f u ll p o t e n t ia l. Our summer community cultivates creativity, celebrates individuality, and challenges boys and girls to go beyond their perceived limits to be all they can be. R e g is t e r N o w : www.stmarysschool.org or call 901-537-1415 ©2017 St. Mary’s Episcopal School. All rights reserved.
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Chris Canale
Offering a Sip of Pure Memphis Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
April
A
• StreetSeen
piece of Memphis history will come back to life this month as Chris Canale, 38, opens Old Dominick Distillery at 305 S. Front. Not only will a set of restored historic industrial buildings be resurrected, but Chris will be writing new pages of his family’s history as the next generation of Canales to continue the family’s passion for “making fine spirits and sharing stories.”
“Old Dominick Distillery is a 54,000 square-foot set of historic industrial buildings restored as a spirits distillery,” explained Chris. “But it’s more than a production facility. We’ve designed it to be a destination for people to go and get together. Old Dominick Distillery invites guests to learn the lore, experience the craft, and share a sip of pure Memphis spirit.” Named after Chris’ great-greatgrandfather, Domenico Canale, Old Dominick Distillery is located just steps away from the place where Domenico Canale originated D. Canale & Co. and later Old Dominick Whiskey in Downtown Memphis in 1866. And Chris intends to pay homage to his family’s history in a myriad of ways. As guests enter the new distillery, they will be greeted by an exhibit showcasing historical information and family photos that will give them a sense of what life was like on this stretch of S. Front in the mid-1800s. A glance out the front window will help cement their sense of place as they can see the building across the street where the spirited life of Chris’ family began. Those gathered for a facilities tour will learn the history of the Old Dominick and D. Canale brands and how that story is related to the city of Memphis. The entire tour, with the exception of the bottling line, is laid out in the order of the production process. Old Dominick Distillery is a whole-process distillery and crafts a line of fine spirits. “Most people don’t realize that whiskey is actually distilled beer,” said Chris. “Grains, brought by truck to the back of the facility, go into enormous fermentation tanks to begin their voyage in the whiskey-making process. The product of the fermentation process is called “distiller’s beer.” The beer goes through the beer still and results in 120 proof distillate, which then goes to the doubler for a second distillation. That distillate is proofed further and finally this ‘white whiskey’ goes into barrels to begin the aging process, approximately four years.
The white whiskey turns its traditional brown color in the barrel. Our barrels will be kept onsite in our ‘aging loft’. And some of our white whiskey will undergo further processing and be refined to over 190 proof vodka.” For those seeking a taste of Old Dominick’s products, the distillery offers a tasting room. “On the full business day you can have a tasting, but not drink,” said Chris. “And we’re able to sell unopened full bottles in our gift shop, along with other souvenirs.” And there’s another option, Old Dominick Distillery has been designed to serve as an event site. There’s a VIP Lounge with access to a rooftop patio, with a river view, that when combined can accommodate approximately 350 people. During special events, Old Dominick’s whiskeys and vodkas can be served by the drink. There are also plans underway to have a restaurant onsite. Another nod to the Canale family history will come in the form of a heritage drink called a “Memphis Toddy.” Old Dominick had the label “1866 Flavored Whiskey” and called his drink the “Old Dominick Toddy.” It was a true preprohibition drink said to be very popular back in those days. “We did not have the actual recipe,” said Chris, “But we did have an actual bottle of his flavored whiskey, with the wax seal in place, that survived through the years. We had the concoction analyzed and discovered it was whiskey with a mix of botanicals, like citrus peel and spices. We are going to bottle our Memphis Toddy and use a custom design featuring a rooster and a sunrise in our logo. The rooster is a Dominicker, a tribute to Dominick (Domenico) Canale.” A few steps away and five generations later from where it all began, the Old Dominick Distillery seems like a family reunion to crow about. For more information about Old Dominick Distillery, visit OldDominick.com and check its Facebook page for events.
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Military Masquerade Ball Benefiting Alpha Omega Veterans Services
A
nnesdale Mansion provided an elegant setting for the inaugural Alpha Omega Veterans Services (AOVS) Military Masquerade Ball. In the timehonored tradition of Mardi Gras celebrations, guests were encouraged to wear masks, with either their military uniforms or black tie attire. Adding to the New Orleans-themed evening, chef Kelly English dished up his Creole-style cuisine while Memphis Second Line Jazz Band processed into the house and performed in the front parlor as attendees kicked up their heels to the lively music. The host committee members presented an evening with unique silent auction items like a Vince Carter signed game ball, a Sprok N Roll Brunch Tour, rare whiskeys and wines, and jewelry. Live auction items included a 2015 Gibson Guitar limited edition BB King “Lucille” guitar and a private dinner party for 8 people hosted by chef Kelly English with Penny Hardaway. There were also complimentary cigars, a whiskey pull and a bead throw. ARS/Rescue Rooter was the title “Medal of Honor” sponsor of the event. All proceeds will benefit for AOVS, a nonprofit organization that helps homeless and disabled military veterans. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Lynette Tribble and Alisa Farmer
Matt and Suzanne Bowen
Victor Charles and Bobby Johnson
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Teresa and Steve Bernhardt
Dr. Charmaine and Daniel Taylor
Selby and P Z Horton with David and Diane White
Chef Kelly English and Mayor Jim Strickland
Colleen Orbegoso and Denice McMahon
Andi Simonsen, Dara Vongphrachanh and Kerri Harper
Anita McCabe and Cordell Walker with Jack and Syliva Ramsaur
Cameron and Duncan Howell
Vintage901
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Vintage901
S Grant Zimmerman and Alex Braun
Alexis and Fred McWilliams
Resh and Anita Short
Valeria and Kimbel Wells
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A Pairing of Wine, Food and Music
tephanie Ferreira curated a brand new festival, Vintage901, as an intimate, three-day event that took place at different locations around town—all promoting good wine, good food and good music. Her committee members included Belinda Anderson, volunteer coordinator; Shannon Little, publicity coordinator; Deidre Malone, sponsorships and advertising; Bonnie Pinkston, event team leader; and Jess Vandenberg, graphic design. “Each of the three days featured nationally recognized Grand Sommelier Laurie Forster, the best in artisanal wines, an array of local flavors with a nod to global sensibilities, and music that blended the classic and the eclectic,” said Ferreira. The event opened with “Perfect Pairings” at the Halloran Centre at the Orpheum Theatre Memphis with a reception featuring Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Champagne from France. Forster, The Wine Coach, presented the opening toast at a three-course dinner provided by Restaurant Iris. The food and wines were selected to experience the perfect pairings. Chef Kelly English and Forster each gave a short talk about the chosen food and wine pairings at the beginning of each course. The evening’s entertainment featured international jazz artist Monty Alexander. The meal began with smoked char with dill emulsion, preserved lemon, and “sauce gribiche” paired with Trimbach Riesling 2013, Alsace, France and Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Marlborough, New Zealand. The second course followed with Gochujang braised short ribs with whipped celeriac, pho jus, and Vietnamese gremolata, grilled eggplant over early ratatouille with persillade and fried herbs paired with Klinker Brick Farrah Syrah 2014, Lodi, California and The Prisoner Blend 2015, Napa Valley, California. The dessert course featured rosemary custard with cayenne crisp and burnt sugar paired with Kiona Red Mountain Ice Wine 2014 Red Mountain, Washington and Porto Ferreira Quinta do Porto 10 Year Tawny, Douro, Portugal. Day Two was titled “Grand Tasting” and brought crowds of people See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
April 2017
to the Fairgrounds, to the Creative Arts Building on Tiger Lane, for what was described as “edu-tainment” (education + entertainment). Over 90 wines from 10 countries and four states were available for the tasting. In addition to the tasting stations set up around the room, Forster led a tasting of four wines, explaining the nuances of each. Following Forster, Chef Ayanna Johnson from Chef DuJour gave a cooking demonstration, preparing Salmon and Gnocchi in a white wine cream sauce. Chef Sleepy Johnson of Tart and Chef David Johnson of Belle: A Southern Bistro also taught the crowd different ways to cook with wine. Several local artisans set up shop. Melissa McGuire Bridgman brought her Bridgman Pottery to the event, showcasing a new item, a wine cup, as well as her handcrafted signature Vintage901 cheeseboards and serving platters. Wolfgang Marquardt’s Gardens Oy Vey offered various sizes of tabletop gardens, perfect for decorating a patio or porch to enhance the ambience of your place to kick back and relax. Other vendors included Cosgrove and Lewis, Dodson’s Farms, Frost Bake Shop, Jamila Naturals, Jams & Jellies, MEMPops, Mighty Olive, My Cup of Tea and Seafood Nutrition. Kroger/Murray’s offered an antipasti station of heart-healthy foods including Turkish dried apricots, dried bing cherries, marinated artichokes hearts, Calabrese antipasto salad, flatbreads, and a variety of specialty cheeses. Several food trucks, including Fuel Cafe/Food Truck, Say Cheese, and Sledd Concessions, were also on hand with their specialty offerings. Live musical entertainment by Willie Ziavino and the COT Band, a Latin group from Atlanta, kept the atmosphere festive and fun. The final day served up a “Sparkling Brunch” offering a four-course meal with wine pairings, live local jazz performances, and additional themed giveaways. Ferreira summed up the event saying, “This festival is designed to draw more people to Memphis and give them a wonderful ‘taste’ of what our city has to offer.” Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Jonathan Aur and Brittany Angelos
Sara Studdard and Cory York
Matt and Anthea Johnson
Darby Fuller and Sarah Duggan
April 1
Plants from the Bible - 11am Sydney Clark Designs MEMPops 10am - 2pm
April 8
2nd Annual Easter Open House 9am - 4pm MEMPops
April 15
Healthy Living - 10am MEMPops - 10 am - 2pm
April 22
Goat Cuddles 10am - 12pm Say Cheese Food Truck - 11am - 2pm
April 29
Book Signing - Leslie's Party Diaries by Leslie Byars Register
SPRING SPEAKER SERIES
May 6
Herb Cooking Class with Mary Harvey Gurley
Join us Saturdays in April and the first Saturday in May. We have a great lineup of speakers and fun events! For more information on dates and times, please check our website www.millstonenursery.com or Facebook @MillstoneMarket
6993 POPLAR AVENUE GERMANTOWN, TN 901 -730 -1183 www.millstonenursery.com
MUSIC BY THE LAKE
GUY BAVLI
MUSIC BY THE LAKE
Free Outdoor Concert
Illusionist Master of the Mind You’ll leave the theatre amazed!
– ELMO AND THE SHADES –
May 5 – 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
April 15 – 8 p.m.
– RIVER BLUFF CLAN –
June 2 – 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Music - Food - Fun
– WE’LL MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE – Let BPACC host your Reception – Meeting – Workshop – Celebration in our theater or one of our unique spaces.
Ti c k e t s & I n f o B PA C C . o rg o r 9 0 1 . 3 8 5 . 6 4 4 0
Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center April 2017
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Gary and Melissa Bridgman
Anna Pyles and Tabitha Black
Justin and Dixie Brown
Didier and Kelley Aur
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Lashun and Warren Wyley
Noy II and Jasmine Garrett
Lou and Rose Citro
April 2017
Jenny Garrett and Kim Smith
Regina Walker and Shirley Kyles
Eri Gray and Allie Mounce
Tina Edwards and Cary Woods
Photo by Steve Roberts
All Inclusive Salon & Medical Spa Hair Color • Balayage • Hair Extensions Nails • Formal Hair Styles • Spa Parties Custom Spray Tan • On Site Hair & Makeup
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Hands of Hope
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Hands of Hope
T Sara and Scott Trammell
Shibahn and Stephen Rodda
Sasha and John Ennis Jr.
he annual Hands of Hope Auction Party, benefitting the Exchange Club Family Center, was held for the first time at The Orpheum Theatre’s Halloran Centre for the Performing Arts, and by all accounts, was a great success—not just financially, but socially. With room for two bands to perform, one in the lounge area—where two friends from Nashville set up and played an acoustic set—and a larger band performing later in the night on the main stage, plenty of music floated through the room all night. Auction items were set up from the entrance along the main corridor of the Halloran Centre for people to view and place bids on. There was no shortage of ways to stay busy. A cash bar, as well as a complimentary beer and wine bar, was set up (as was a table by the registration offering complimentary champagne for guests who wished to toast the occasion), and a delicious meal of baked chicken, green beans and mashed potatoes was served, along with a unique barbecue setup where the barbecue was served at the bottom of a cup with baked beans topped with coleslaw as a decorative finish. Kim Weiss, the coordinator for Hands of Hope, said they had nearly 400 people and the auction raised just shy of $170,000. “The auction went great; we sold about 175 auction items, the live auction had seven items and it alone raised about $12,000,” said Weiss, who’s been volunteering for the Hands of Hope event for five years, with this her See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Christie and Mitch Hitch
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Rock the River first year as its coordinator. The fundraiser has been going on for years, and is the largest annual fundraiser for the Exchange Club. According to the Exchange Club website, proceeds from Hands of Hope “go directly to our various programs designed to break the cycle of child abuse and family violence.” Cameron Yates, event director at the Halloran Centre, said it was a great crowd and the second silent auction they’ve hosted. Yates said the ability to bid via the web or mobile apps encouraged people to engage more at such fundraisers. “It was great, it was very involved, a lot of fundraisers right now are moving towards the mobile bidding, people are more active just because they can pick up their phones, and it makes for a more fun experience, because they can socialize and bid on items simultaneously. We were happy to have them here, and happy to work with them, and we are glad it was successful,” Yates said. The event was presented by IberiaBank and State Systems Inc. Corporate sponsors included Allenberg Cotton Co., JNJ Express, Grinder, Taber & Grinder Inc., AutoZone, Gerber Taylor, MCR Safety, Ring Container Technologies, the Hauber Foundation, AC Electric Co. Inc., First Tennessee, Chuck Hutton Chevrolet, Macy’s, T-Shirt Champions, Pinnacle Financial Partners and Summit Truck Group. In-kind sponsors were Inferno, Memphis Made Brewing Co., Signworks and Cooper Mountain Vineyards. Story and Photos by Rebekah Yearout
Hanna Pate, AJ Bernstein, Danielle McKean and Parker Noles
April 2017
Renee and Adam Harrell
Charlene Cox and Joe Simon
Lauren Kimmons and Brandi Patterson
Judge Bob Weiss and Rebecca Paulk
Meet Esmerelda! My name is Esmerelda! I'm a young, affectionate little lady looking for a home where I can have all the cozy snuggles I want. I am a very petite princess with a big purr and an affinity for cuddles. I get along well with other cats and even some dogs! My adoption fee is $95.00 and includes my spay, vaccinations, microchip and negative FIV/FELV test. I recently had a dental too so my teeth are pearly white and in great shape. I am to be an INDOOR ONLY cat and declawing is not allowed.
krocmemphis.org
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Albert and Lelia Green
Molly Fitzparick and Amanda Gefschman
Gerald and Rebekah Barrom
Kathy Brooks and Barbara Patronis
Billy Burditt and Jolle Rogin
Catherine and Robert Johnston with Connor Parris
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Angela and John Stephans
Jennie Robbins and Bobbi Vandergrift
Grace Colly and Preston Hall
Cameron Yates and Kim Weiss
Halle Priester, Lauralee Madigan and Melissa Omgber
April
Marie and Peter Gee
• Hands of Hope
Becca and Jeff McGoff
Becky Wilson, Emily Kannam and Chrissie Tashie
Ginger and John Warmaton
Taylor and Tealy Hewgley
Beautiful and lasting memories are as simple as
www.rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our website. If you’re looking for a photo that one of our photographers took at a major social event and is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available through our web address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and remember the password: rsvp. Marilyn Reinhardt, Amy Robinson and Richard Reinhardt
April 2017
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Memphis Moment
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Wine for Wishes Making Dreams Come True
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wish to be a cowgirl. I wish to visit the set of Star Wars in London. I wish to have a pony. I wish to meet tennis pro Roger Federer. If it is in one’s power to transform imagined joy into something real, Make-A-Wish® Mid-South Chapter performs such feats. It provides the means to grant needful wishes of children enduring the circumstances of life-threatening illnesses. Through annual events like Wine for Wishes, the chapter’s Associate Board of young professionals enlists the support of peers to help fulfill the Make-A-Wish® mission. The 2017 Wine for Wishes at Cadre featured 16 wines provided by Buster’s Liquors & Wines, victuals by Memphis caterer Ernie Mellor and Frost Bake Shop, beer courtesy of Goldcrest Brewing Co. and music by Brennan Villines Trio. Memphis Bar Ties supplied bartenders. Sponsors were The Barnett Group, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust, Data Facts Inc., Flash Staffing and Triumph Bank. Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Front row: Katherine Duncan, Brittney Rowe, Rebecca Nenon, Addie McGowan, Daniel Brown, Rob Mayer. Middle row: Joseph Robinson, Justin Miller. Back row: Danny Lyons, Jeremy Chism, Blake H. Higgins, Kate Van Namen, Mallory Raffensberger, Veronica Tansey
Will Podesta and Caroline Burriss
Scott Boyd and Tammy Harvey
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Sharon Howard and Rhonda Goodfellow
John and Amanda Strawn
Sonya Weathers and Vincent Bell
Kayla Hazlerig and Bekah McDuffie
Whitney and Terez Wilson
Rolanda Gregory and John Walker
Todd and Emily Miller
Mary Catherine Fogleman and Lori Bramlett
Taurus B. Currie and Nate Spates, Jr.
Bodine Bash
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Bodine Bash
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Stephanie and Richard Hathcock
Debbie and Marty Petrusek
Walter Stigger and Khadijah Stigger
pproximately 400 guests turned out to support the Bodine School at this year’s Bodine Bash. The event, chaired by Debbie and Barry Marshall, was held at Minglewood Hall and included food, fun and both a live and silent auction. The Risky Whiskey Boys crooned tunes while party-goers strolled among the tables showcasing live and silent auctions items. “We greatly appreciate each donation of an item or service in support of our school,” said John Murphy, Head of School at Bodine. “The proceeds will allow us to provide financial aid for those children, grades 1 - 6, who need our school. Our mission is to lead the Mid-South in teaching children with dyslexia to read and succeed.” Several silent auction items were school-based, with class parties noted as popular items. Rounds of golf and other recreational activities, such as scuba lessons in a heated pool, were up for bid, too. There seemed to be something for everyone, with restaurant packages, jewelry items, museum memberships, health and beauty gift certificates—even weekend boarding for Fido. As the silent auction closed, guests made their way to dinner where members of the University of Memphis Pom Pom Squad were stationed as table servers. The menu included beef brisket with carrots, potatoes and asparagus. Murphy took the stage to welcome the crowd and thank sponsors, as well as Bodine staff and administrators, for their See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Donna and Keith Renard
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Because Learning is FUNdamental support of the evening’s event. Bodine parent and event chair Debbie Marshall shared what the school had meant for her family. Bodine board chair Jill Giles was recognized for her service to Bodine, serving on the board for six years, and chairing it for three years. Jeff Morris served as auctioneer for the live auction portion of the event. Up for bid were items that offered opportunities to have fun in our own backyard. High bidders came away with an AutoZone Suite with 18 tickets for a Redbirds home game, courtside tickets to cheer for the Memphis Grizzlies, and a Downtown weekend “stay-cation” that included tickets to the Cotton Museum and a private walking tour with local historian Jimmy Ogle. There were also vacation packages to Destin and Heber Springs, as well as a two-day duck hunt in the Mississippi Delta that encouraged a friendly bidding war. Other items offered unique opportunities for children, such as being named as a Memphis Grizzlies Honorary Ball Kid for a Game or the opportunity to serve as Duck Master for the day, assuming the role of honor in the lobby of The Peabody. When the bidding was over, everyone felt like a winner for supporting such a worthy cause as the Bodine School. Guests kicked back for the rest of the party, donning headphones preset with channels playing different genres of music, and danced the night away at a Silent Disco Party. Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Shelle Cleland
Larissa Tyler with Loie and Melvin Watkins
April 2017
Matt and Gina Weathersby
Renee and Ryan Ables
Donna Skaarer and Gina Ritchey
Ken Hall and Sarah Ritchie
April
Leigh Bennett, Beth Franklin, Leslie Hays and Deidre Hamilton
David and Laura Clark with Heather and Chuck Hunt
Michael and Angela Odom
Deann Mower and Peggy Bodine
Jeff and Carole Blankenship with Stefani Williams
• Bodine Bash
Cara and Justin Grinder
Maria and Peter Williams
Michel Allen and Gracie Leathers
Kirby May with Christi and Mitch Hitch
April 2017
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Memphis Moments
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Half Pints for Half Pints Benefiting Peabody Elementary School
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ublic education is the cornerstone of a healthy society, and Memphis is home to one of the finest examples of getting kids off to a strong start in life’s journey, Cooper-Young’s own Peabody Elementary School. This historic school was the recipient of the proceeds of an evening of fun, music and food put on by the PTA, appropriately called Half Pints for Half Pints. The event was held inside Memphis Made Brewing Company’s Tap Room and featured 11 delicious handcrafted beers and ales, paired with mouth-watering foods from some of the neighborhood’s best restaurants. On hand were delights from Central BBQ, Celtic Crossing, Aldo’s, Mulan, and Sweet Grass. Music was by Goner Records DJ Zac Ives, and bartenders included award-winning tap master Alan Creasy. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Liz Rincon and Amanda Higbie
Chris Martin and Ashley Dahler
Dan Bureau, Jenny Harbin and Justin Lawhead
Morgan Hughes and Jacob Brockman
LaShanda Bell and Kevin Morris
TEP Gumbo Let the Good Times Roll
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ydeco music filled the ballroom at Hilton Memphis during the Tennessee Equality Project’s (TEP) Gumbo Contest, in its seventh year. Sixteen teams vied for the top spot, judged by a panel of 5, and in a separate category, by attendees. Hoist Memphis took top honors from the judges, while the crowd voted them in second place. The Gumbros won first place in People’s Choice, while the judges placed them second. Fire in the Hole ranked third in People’s Choice, and Thomas’ Meat and Seafood was the judges’ pick for third. Champions of Equality awards were presented to Stephanie Reyes, youth outreach manager of OUTMemphis and LaRonia Hurd-Sawyer, executive director of Parternership to End AIDS Status, Inc. TEP engages state and local lawmakers on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population.
Clay Daniels and Jeff Lunceford
Bella DuBalle, Skip Ledbetter, Garick Evans and Jonathan Cole
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Valdemar Oscar and Alex Matlock
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Paul Linxwiler and John-Michael Anderson
Liz McKee and Sydney Alexander
Katie Amor and Krystal Actis
April
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Memphis Moments
Think Pink Luncheon Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness
L Jennifer Baker, Melissa Still, Kristin Dickerson and Becky Bowman
adies and gentlemen, almost all wearing attire that featured a rosy hue, gathered at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis for the 2017 Think Pink Memphis Luncheon. It was the ninth annual fundraiser to benefit breast cancer education and awareness and celebrate local breast cancer survivors. The luncheon included a fashion show with models who are all breast cancer survivors, wearing ensembles from local boutiques Loudean’s, Indigo and Pink Nest. This year’s keynote speaker was two-time breast cancer survivor Becky Olson is a nationally acclaimed inspirational speaker, entertainer and published author. The 2017 honoree for the luncheon was Emily Tickle Thomas, a cancer survivor and founder of The Cancer Card Xchange, a local charity that collects gift cards and monetary donations to pass along to verified cancer patients. The Think Pink Luncheon was presented by Zeta Tau Alpha Memphis area alumnae and benefited the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation. A percentage of the proceeds also benefited local breast cancer education and awareness efforts. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Susye Sisk, Vicki Price and Cathy Clark
Becky Miller, Chris Jones, Lesa Beaver and Karen Fleming Williams
Kate Horton and Sara Clark
Joel and Emily Thomas
Michele Spears and Becky Olson
Mardi Gras at Bridges A Scholarship Fundraiser
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Kevin and Shemica Gautreaux with Drs. Brooke and Dwight Dishmon
lumni of Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. gathered at Bridges for a Mardi Gras celebration and let the good times roll. The purpose of the event was to fund scholarships. “We raise money for Memphis students who want to attend Southern University,” said Latoria Howard, class of 2000. This is the first year for the fundraiser, called “Mardi Gras at Bridges.” Howard said Southern University alumni groups from most large cities have fundraisers for scholarships and the Memphis alums wanted to pitch in too. Guests enjoyed a buffet of heavy hors d’oeuvres, and then were ready to hit the dance floor. Donald Batiste chaired the event. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Aneas Reed, Antonette Amaker, Arica Houston and Chad Bowman
Arthur and Virginia Robinson with Karen Jones and Janiece Williamson
Yvonne Johnson and Sonya Johnson
Katosha and Arnett Muse
Anisha Raison and Robert Oselen, Jr.
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Rock the Ribbon Supporting Susan G. Komen Memphis-MidSouth
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uests were rockin’ to G3: Garry Goins Band, featuring vocalist Kesha Cook, at the 2017 Rock the Ribbon held at The Great Hall in Germantown. The event featured more than 200 silent auction items and included everything from a tank-less hot water heater to jewelry from James Middleton Jewelers. It was impossible to attend and not get enough to eat, as stations from local eateries including Salsa, Taziki’s, Wang’s and Whole Foods lined the room. Silver table runners adorned special tables for sponsors where ice buckets with chilled bottles of sparkling wine awaited. Appetizers were also laid out for sponsors, as were the signature desserts in shot glasses provided by Season’s 52. Pink lights twinkled from centerpieces. Many ladies wore pink, or outfits accented with pink, while some men sported pink shirt or ties. Rock the Ribbon, in its 6th year, raised $20,000 for Susan G. Komen Memphis-MidSouth, which funds research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Stephenie Bolling, Amanda Hinesley and Angela Fowler
Gaynette Price and Donna Skaarer
James and Patti Wiley
Mary Wilkerson, Lisa Mischke and Dana Mann
Robin and Clayton Samuel
Adam and Courtney Winter
Jonathan Epstein, Eric Thompson and Seth Palmer
Rich and Ellen Bernstein
Marlene and Michael Wilson
Crystal McDonald, Sherry Pilkinton, Tammy Sullivan and Gayle Hill
Shawn Fort and Rachel Ellison
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Chris and Ashley Wiley with Lindsay Stencel and Beth and Doug Halbach
Paris Moss and Sherita Martin
Crossword
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RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS 1 Eyeglasses 6 A refrain in old songs 10 Basics 14 Computer programming language, briefly 15 Business course 16 Very dry wine 17 Long-limbed
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18 Magma 19 Cloak 20 Comfort 21 Certain trees in the Birch family 23 Celeb, maybe 24 Military unit 26 Doctrines 28 Attack with severe criticism 31 Not that 32 Hearing organ 33 Blood vessel 36 Stab 40 Little Mermaid's love 42 Before, poetically 43 Meditation exercise 44 Frolic 45 Controversy 48 Attempt 49 Mailed 51 Hand bags 53 In a chair 56 6-sided solid 57 Owned 58 Pregnant 61 Swiss mountains 65 Upon 67 Same cite as previous 68 Electronic communication 69 Happy cat sound 70 Otherwise 71 Bug (2 wds.) 72 Dueling sword 73 Stag 74 Fabulous!
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DOWN 1 Discount event 2 Appeal 3 Ova 4 Convincing 5 Artful 6 Fiercely 7 Inst. of learning 8 Adore 9 Without law 10 GMA network 11 Courageous 12 Eros 13 Stairs 21 Allege 22 __ Lanka 25 Expression of surprise 27 Spot 28 Flow out slowly 29 Astronomer Sagan 30 Opera solo 31 Maple, i.e. 34 Tepee 35 Make a mistake 37 Decays 38 Fairytale villain 39 24 hour periods 41 Sac-like structures filled with fluid or diseased matter 45 Wet 46 Potato 47 Basin 50 Record of brain activity, briefly 52 Rotary tool
53 Square, i.e. 54 Devour (2 wds.) 55 Love 56 Apple drink 59 Qualified 60 Holding device 62 Not on time 63 Flat bread 64 Niche 66 Before (prefix) 68 You might find a gold one on Easter morning
Love My Chicken, Love Me •
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F
or some reason people are always surprised when they learn that I do the majority of the cooking in our house. Even well into the twentyfirst century there are still perceptions about gender and preparing a noodle casserole. Women are successful on virtually every By Dennis Phillippi level of our society and yet they continue to be expected to be the ones who best understand how to cook an egg. It’s ludicrous. Even Ludacris can probably manage to wrangle up a pot roast. For those of you scoring along at home, yes, that was the same joke three times in a row. When I was young, watching my mom cook was fascinating to me. And, yes, it was always my mom. My father, to my knowledge, never cooked anything, but lest you think it had something to do with gender roles, he also never cut the yard, painted the house, or taught anyone how to drive. I’m not sure what exactly filled his days, but it certainly didn’t involve anything domestic. Watching my mom cook was like watching a magician; things became other things right before my eyes. A handful of this, a pinch of that, and a couple of smidgens of something else and presto; a meatloaf. Personally I hated my mom’s meatloaf, but that didn’t make the trick any less impressive. It really wasn’t until I settled down with my wife that I became interested in food prep. Considering before I met my wife I was a very young comedian on the road with a total of two pairs of socks, there hadn’t been a lot of opportunities to learn the my way around a stock pot. Once I had an actual roof over my head, someone had to make dinner, and since I was the one who had lots of time on their hands in the daytime, naturally it fell to me. At the beginning when we referred to “cooking dinner” it generally meant heating up a frozen lasagna and toasting some hot dog buns, or making Tuna Helper and warming up some lima beans before “Full House” came on. It was that long ago. We were proud of the idea that we were “cooking”. Then again, we were also proud of the fact that we had cable, even though we watched it on a black and white TV.
For a stretch my wife made great effort to fulfill what she perceived as her responsibility as the woman in the relationship and put in her time over the stove. The time we’re talking about is so long ago she was operating from a handwritten list she had drawn up at some point of all of the things she could prepare. This list included making spaghetti, hamburgers, and toast. As you can imagine, the list grew thin quickly. Around this time my wife decided to sit for the CPA exam. This process involved hours and hours of study, prep classes, and a great deal of stress. Because I worked at night, and not
RSVPhillippi
I didn’t know you had to clean the filter any time. It is still a standard belief that women cook and men cook out. I suppose it’s more manly to be dealing with fire and meat than being able to make a pan sauce. While I can use a grill, it’s usually to try something I learned from a cooking magazine. I rarely just throw a couple of steaks on the fire and have a beer while they sizzle. That’s actually a lousy way to cook a steak. I didn’t inherit much from my father other than a neck waddle and a good head of hair, but I did get a solid engineering gene where cooking is concerned. From my mom I got a natural ability in the kitchen, but from my dad I got the knack for having everything come out at the same time. This is an under-rated skill until you have dinner at someone’s house and have a salad an hour before you have your pork chop, followed later by the squash soufflé. My family and friends think that my desire to cook for them stems from some innate need to give them sustenance and comfort. The truth is; I like to cook for them because I like to show off and I want to buy their love. I want to hear nummy sounds when they’re eating something I made because it makes me feel good about myself. I want them to sit down at our table and have a tasty meal without having to shell out a dime because it makes them happy and therefore they will like me. Like anyone who has been in show business their entire life, I exist on external validation. I don’t write this column for the money, God knows, I write it so you’ll come up to me in a restaurant and tell me you read it. Shallow? Oh yeah. And if you didn’t like my piece this month I can always make you some chicken cordon bleu.
For a stretch my wife made great effort to fulfill what she perceived as her responsibility as the woman in the relationship and put in her time over the stove. The time we’re talking about is so long ago she was operating from a handwritten list she had drawn up at some point of all of the things she could prepare. very hard, I volunteered to take over the housework, including the cooking. This had nothing to do with the fact that I was sick of spaghetti with toast. The fact that I hadn’t already taken over the housework was a testament to the power of gender roles at that time. It was just assumed that she would do most of the cooking and cleaning simply because that’s the way she was raised. This was a swell situation for me, but it couldn’t last. For a year she slaved at passing the CPA exam, and I learned how to do laundry. As a side note, back then I was such a lugnut I managed to kill a dryer because I didn’t know you had to clean the filter all the time.
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ca. 1927
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he Sears Crosstown Building or Sears, Roebuck and Company Catalog Distribution Center and Retail Store has been a Memphis landmark since it was built in 1927 (shown here). The revitalized art deco high-rise building has been renamed Crosstown Concourse and is entering the next phase of its life as a “vertical urban village” dedicated to healthcare, education and the arts. Additionally, the space will provide apartments, gallery space, retail shops and restaurants, a high school and other educational programming, and more. Photo courtesy of The Memphis & Shelby County Room Photograph Collection If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Emily Adams Keplinger at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com. All photos will be returned promptly.
GREAT THINGS GO ON HERE! 6075 Poplar Avenue – Ninth Floor Memphis, TN 38119 901-684-1010 Crecent-Club.com
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Don't forget Mother' s Day! G REAT G IFT I DEAS
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G REAT P RICES ! T UESDAY -S ATURDAY 10 AM -5 PM 9387 P OPLAR A VENUE G ERMANTOWN, TN 38138 901.758.8605 DORISMCLENDON . COM