February 2016
Toy Bash Red Boa Ball The New Year’s Eve Fire Ball Q&A with Janet Boscarino
Celebrating 40 Years!
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Contents
Features
February 2016
From the Editor • 8 Signature Memphis • 10
Jack Sammons, Memphis leader, caught up with RSVP and reveals his favorite quiet spot to relax.
Events
StreetSeens • 18 & 20
She has created a skin care line that combines beauty and science. Her art exhibit “Cast of Blues” is allowing locals of all abilities to experience the various faces of the blues. StreetSeens highlights Dr. Purvisha Patel and Sharon McConnell-Dickerson.
Vox Popular • 22
Q&A with Janet Boscarino of Clean Memphis.
RSVPhillippi • 49
How to Be a Grown Up The very grown up Dennis Phillippi lists some important things every adult should know how to do. If you can’t fry an egg, stop calling yourself an adult.
Kiamesha Wilson and Davita Watkins
The New Year's Eve Fire Ball • 12
The Phoenix Club rings in the New Year with style for a good cause.
Dare Estok
The Mid-South Chapter of the American Red Cross held their annual fundraiser at the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Cover Photo Cover Photo Jeff and Chelsey Savage at The New Year's Eve Fire Ball Photo by Don Perry
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Red Boa Ball • 28
Rachel Thillen and Nancy Kensinger
Memphis Moments • 32, 34, 35, 40, 42, 43, 44 &46
Larry Green and Aleesha Whita
Toy Bash • 36
Locals gave toys in need at this holiday event for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis.
Maddie Griffith and Trell Shivley
After Hours • 47
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RSVP Staff Volume XXI• Number II February 2016 publisher
Roy Haithcock Editor
Rachel Warren contributing writers
Virginia Davis Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Suzanne Thompson art director
Krista Geyer photographers
Patrick Lantrip Don Perry Steve Roberts
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.
account executives
Chris Pugh Robin Morgan accounting
Ruth Cassin RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact: Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax: (901) 276-7785 publisher@rsvpmagazine.com
Robin Morgan Account Executive Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious, and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girlfriends. Robin’s “bright spot” is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!
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 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Krista Geyer Art Director
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2016 Haithcock Communications, Inc. 6 •
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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 W
elcome to February everyone! Soon, Phil the groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania will decree whether we can look forward to relief or if we should prepare ourselves for another six more weeks of wet winter weather. Strangely, if you are ready for spring to come, you have to hope it’s cloudy on Feb. 2nd, and Phil does not see his shadow. If you want spring to come early, don’t hope for sunshine. It seems a little counterintuitive, but, then again, what can you expect when relying on a groundhog to make large-scale seasonal predictions? February is about the anticipation of spring and showing your love for those close to you. Besides Groundhog Day and Valentine’s Day, it is also the Chinese New Year. Also, this year is a leap year! What will you do with your extra day? It seems February 2016 is rare kind of month with lots of possibilities. This month is just a great time to begin shaking the winter off and preparing for the warmer days ahead by sharing your love for those special people in your lives. And perhaps, also, some people you may have never met before. We here at RSVP are gearing up for all the spring events and benefits that will be happening in Memphis soon. There are dozens of opportunities for locals to show their love for Memphis and fellow Memphians by getting out there and giving back. This month is also American Heart Month, and the Mid-South Chapter of the American Heart Association would love for you to lend a hand or send a donation. Check out their Memphis Heart Ball, the chapter’s annual fund-raiser, on Feb. 20th. It is a good time and a fun way to support their life-saving mission. The Exchange Club Family Center will be hosting their annual Hands of Hope Auction on Feb. 27th. They are also continuously looking for volunteers. There’s a whole extra day this month, so why not spend it uplifting others?
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Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Jack Sammons P resident and G eneral C hairman of F ed E x S t . J ude C lassic , B oard M ember M emphis S helby C ounty A irport A uthority , P resident of A mpro I ndustries and F ormer C hief A dministrative O fficer of the C ity of M emphis
Hometown: Memphis. Favorite Place to Travel: Napa Valley. Who Would Play You in a Movie: John Wayne. Favorite Song: “Love and Happiness” by Al Green. Best Memphis Hangout: Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous. Your Best Quality: Storytelling – making others laugh. Favorite Southern Idiom: “I’m fittin’ to knock you out.” Best Advice You Ever Got: “Always take the big cooler.” Favorite Quiet Spot in the City: The Wine Cave at my house. One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: Own and operate a winery. Last Dish You Cooked: Barbecue ribs on my Willingham WHAM cooker. Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Pork shoulder sandwich at Payne’s Bar-B-Que. A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: Winston Churchill. First Car You Drove: 1964 MG. Paid $550 in 1973 for it, and drove it all through Photo by Steve Roberts
college at University of Alabama.
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,
The New Year s Eve Fi r e Ball H 2016! appy
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Becca and Franklin Childress
John and Dorothy Collier
t the Phoenix Club’s New Year’s Eve Fire Ball heads bobbed and bodies throbbed to the irresistible, eclectic beat of City Mix, an up-and-coming Memphis band that kept the dance floor thronged with revelers all night long. An eye-catching array of head apparel adorned many guests: top hats, teeny round hats, sequined fedoras, shiny cardboard cones, fauxjeweled tiaras, black plumes and at least one white firefighter’s helmet. Gents’ attire tended toward casual-dressy, but a few tuxedos, some memorable bowties and plaid shirts with khakis joined the mix. Loopy fringe, electric blue sequins, champagne tinted tulle and floor length gold lame all made appearances in the ladies’ attire. Marking passage from old year to new provided an occasion to party hearty, but a higher purpose imbued the event at the Memphis Botanic Garden. The Phoenix Club presented its first-ever Fire Ball to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis (BGCM), an organization for which the club has annually raised money for more than five decades. Phoenix members conceived the idea and made plans in little more than a month, according to Jeff Savage, Phoenix Club executive vice president. They contacted local businesses to ask for support and a bash was born. “The response we got was wonderful,” Savage said. “They all heard it was for Boys & Girls Clubs and came running.” Draper’s Catering of Memphis prepared a repast of cut fresh fruits, a nacho station featuring pulled barbecue, ground beef, salsa, guacamole and condiments, as well as a table where guests could choose from hot spinach, artichoke, Cobb, and roasted red pepper and hummus dips served with herbed toast, pita chips and crackers. Nolan Audio Video installed two TV screens near the stage so guests could check on college football bowl action. Pyramid Vodka and Star Distributors Wholesale Wines & Liquors provided spirits for thirsty partygoers. More than 400 tickets were sold for The Fire Ball. The Phoenix Club Inc. holds several annual events to benefit programs operated by BGCM of Greater Memphis, including Camp Phoenix near Como, MS. Members also mentor BGCM youth one-on-one in academic and recreational programs that promote development of good character, good citizenship, healthy lifestyles and career success. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
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Hayley Perdzock and Max Troutman
Story by Virginia Davis Photos by Don Perry
Melissa Macyauski and Carmen Macyauski
Samantha Broadway and Cole Monahan
Tammy and Harold Hiatt
Chloe Lane and Ezra Elam
Karolina Calhoun with Katherine and William Rote
Tanner Mariencheck and Cameron Russell
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Anna and John Michael Leppert
Nam Le and Keegan Austin
Zac and Bethany McRae
Kat Ruaro and Shane Perkins
Jake Yarmowich and Peyton Thomas
Andrea and Tres Letard
Max Halasz and Cristine Osteen
Scott Powers, Josh Throndson, Laura Powers, Leah Singh and Christine Fulmer
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Christopher and Allison Cook
Kenneth and Maurita Devall
Mary Katherine Thinnes, Erin Sandefer and Alyson Bauer
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Katie Walsh, Christina Romers and Megan Dearoff
Patrick Gordon, Colleen Fitzgerald, Anna McCabe and Miles Sklar
Jim Creamer and Hannah Curran
Parker Nelson and Lindsey Downing
John and Kim Honan with Molly Albin and Adam West
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Amanda Moak and John Gillespie
Laura and Scott Powers
Jennifer and Brian Aycock
Ashley Craddick, Symone Danniels and Christine Lake
MED SPA
Sara Watson and Kevin Nguyen
Faith Scholes and Tenor Kapp
Austin Paul, Mackenzie Bascot and Andrew Glassell
H AIR S TUDIO
Tom Strini and Amanda Jones
Dylan and Heather Shaffer
M ED S PA
• Hair Color/Balayage Obagi Image Peels • • Hair Extensions Signature Facials • • Formal Hair Styles Botox • • Spa Parties Massage Therapy • • On Site Hair and Makeup Dermal Fillers • • Custom Spray Tan Lash Extensions • • Nails Laser Treatments •
Get ready for Valentine’s! $25 - Bikini Wax
Gift Cards Available Suzanna and Hunter Nichols with Jane Scarbrough and Olivia Nichols
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Visha Skin
Dr. Purvi s ha Patel C : “B S B are
ringing
cience and
eauty Together”
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ocal Dr. Purvisha Patel has been practicing dermatology for 12 years, with most of those years spent providing quality treatment to MidSouth patients at her practice, Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates in Germantown. As a busy mother and professional, Dr. Patel was continuously on the hunt for skincare products that did double duty at an affordable price. Instead of waiting around for that miracle product, Dr. Patel decided to take matters into her own hands and create her own skincare line. With that, Visha Skin Care was born. Free of harsh ingredients and harmful chemicals, Visha products offer a variety of serums, moisturizers, cleansers, and treatments that multitask and, best of all, are easy on the wallet. Dr. Patel has developed two specialized lines – an Advanced Line and a Mommy Line – that are now available on the market. “Visha Skin Care was easy for me, being a dermatologist and a busy mom, I personally needed a skincare line that I could use. I also saw that my patients needed an affordable line that could multitask and be used without a lot of steps and produce great results,” Dr. Patel says. From there, Patel gathered a team of chemists and set about formulating her very own products. Now available for purchase, Visha Skin Care Line products are paraben-free, sulfate-free, hydroquinone-free and fragrance-free. Patel adds, “It can get really tedious and costly for people to buy products and stick to a regimen and also invest in that for an indefinite amount of time to get the results they want. Many of the Visha products can multitask. For example, in our Advanced Line, we offer the Advance Correcting Serum with Illumiotex. It is one serum that you use twice a day, and it helps not only diminish fine lines and wrinkles, but it also helps decrease pore size, diminish scars and helps with hyper-pigmentation in sunspots.” Patel says the Advanced Line was created for people that want to get into an anti-aging regimen. Another multitasking Advanced product is the Rejuvenating Moisturizer, which replenishes estrogen to skin while it moisturizes. The Advanced Bright Eye Booster contains a boost of caffeine that helps reduce the appearance of puffy eyes and dark circles but can also be used to shrink fine lines around the mouth. Patel and her team have also created the Mommy Skin Care products for expectant and nursing mothers that are free of all the harsh chemicals they might want to avoid. All the Mommy products are specially made for sensitive skin, meaning anyone who wants beautiful skin without harsh chemicals can use it. Women can avoid stretch marks by using the Bump 2 Baby balm, which stops belly stretch marks before they form. But, the balm can also be used on the baby when it is born. “When messaged into the mother’s belly everyday, the baby feels it as well, and that helps with the bonding experience between mother and baby. When the baby is born, not only does the mother get the benefits of decreasing stretch marks, but also the balm can be used to prevent eczema on the baby,” Patel says. Dr. Patel comments that the best part about the line is offering affordable skincare products to people outside of her practice. “It is really exciting for me to get feedback from patients and others when they see me and tell me I have made a difference in their lives by helping to make their skin better. As a doctor, I’m only able to help the people that I treat, but by bringing the Visha Skin Care Line to the market, I am able to help people I don’t even know. I am able to make a difference in their lives.” Dr. Patel will soon be releasing a new line within the Visha Skin Care Line, called Fitness Line. The Fitness Line products will help get rid of any bacteria or fungus picked up at the gym or during a workout. Find out more about the Visha Skin Care Line online at www.vishaskincare.com or www.facebook.com/VishaSkinCare Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Steve Roberts 18 •
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Dr. Patel at the Grove Grill
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Sharon McConnell-Di c kerson T B : “A C B ” ouching the
lues
ast of
lues
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ften, when we go to art museums, there is a set of rules. Rule Number One: Don’t touch the art. Artist Sharon McConnell-Dickerson is breaking that specific rule in her new exhibit, “A Cast of Blues,” that will run through the first week of May 2016. Housed in The Blues Foundation’s Blues Hall of Fame lobby, this exhibit invites viewers to touch and explore her sculptures contrary to the typical museum experience. A Como, MS resident, McConnellDickerson has spent the last 16 years casting the living faces of blues musicians in white composite resin. “A Cast of Blues” includes 40 life-cast masks of famous blues musicians, with an additional bronze cast of the late Johnny Winter’s hands. Life-mask casts of musicians in this exhibit include, among others, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Ruth Brown, James Cotton, Bo Diddley, David “Honeyboy” Edwards, John Hammond, Robert Lockwood Jr., Pinetop Perkins, and “Little Milton” Campbell. This multi-media exhibit allows guests of all ages and abilities to touch the casts of these famous musicians, which can be accompanied by an audio tour, read by musicologists and radio personalities Chuck Haddix of KCUR, Kansas, MO and Gil Anthony of WWNT, Dothan, AL. The audio also includes samples of each exhibited artist’s music selected by Haddix and Anthony. Braille labels accompany the biographical panels secured next to the casts. Additionally, the masks are installed at a lower than typical level, allowing children and wheelchair users to clearly access and view them. As a blind artist herself, McConnell-Dickerson wanted to ensure that anyone of any ability could experience her exhibit and the faces of blues music. McConnell-Dickerson says that she has always been a fan of the blues and, in the past, her work has included full-body casts of people. After a blues-centric trip to MS, a good friend suggested she cast the faces of living blues musicians. While she thought this was a good idea, it wasn’t until later that the passion for this type of project motivated her to begin. “I thought it was a good idea at the time, but my heart wasn’t in it. It wasn’t true inspiration at that time. The way I approach my art, whether it is painting or sculpture, is that it has to come from God. I have to feel it so deeply. I woke up one morning and, man, it was there. I thought, ‘I have got to do this.’ It wasn’t simply, ‘I am ready now.’ It was, wow, I hear you God. I was on fire,” McConnell-Dickerson says. From there, she began her 16-year journey to preserve the faces of blues music through life-casting. Starting in 2000, she traveled all over the country, from MS to MO to OH. She was living in Santa Fe at the beginning of this massive project, but eventually relocated to Como, MS, where she now calls home. To date, she has created 59 life masks and several hand casts. She says one of the best parts of the project was befriending the various artists that were her subjects through the intimate process of casting their faces. “We really bonded, and I got to know them and they trusted me. There is God all over this project. People have asked me, ‘How did you get blues musician Robert Lockwood Jr. to agree to cover his entire face in plaster? Plus, I am blind! It was God. Not one of those artists ever questioned my ability. They never brought that up,” she says. In January, McConnell-Dickerson was named one of the 15 recipients of the Blues Foundation’s Keeping the Blues Alive (KBA) Award in 2016. KBAs are awarded to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to blues music. She comments that this project is a lifelong project, saying, “The masks are part of the legacy that the musicians leave behind, but it is also part of my legacy as well. I will continue this project as long as musicians want me to cast them and for as long as I am physically and financially able to do so.” Experience the faces of blues music and stop by the Blues Hall of Fame downtown on S. Main St. Take a look, and touch, this once-in-a-life-time exhibit. Go to www.mcconnelldickersonart.com to see more of McConnellDickerson’s impressive works. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts
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McConnell-Dickerson stands beside her exhibit, located in the Blues Hall of Fame
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Vox Popular Q&A J B
oscarino
ocals Margot McNeeley and Janet Boscarino saw a problem in the city a couple years ago – waste, litter and non-sustainable practices. Both women went on to found organizations that tackled different areas of these problems in Memphis. McNeeley founded Project Green Fork, which helps certify local restaurants in sustainable waste management. Boscarino co-founded Clean Memphis with a group of concerned citizens to help neighborhoods and schools reduce litter, blight and waste. Now, McNeeley has moved on to pursue other ambitions, but don’t worry – Project Green Fork will continue its important work, just under the umbrella of Clean Memphis. Boscarino let RSVP editor Rachel Warren catch up with her at the Clean Memphis office in Midtown as she discussed the merger and how the two combined forces will make Memphis a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city.
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RSVP: How did the merger with Project Green Fork come about? Boscarino: Project Green Fork (PGF) executive director, Margot McNeeley and I have been friends for quite some time. We both started our organizations around the same time. We started our organizations, also, with similar feelings, but we had different focuses. But, ultimately, we both are striving to make Memphis cleaner, greener and more sustainable. Margot was more focused on restaurants, of course, and I am focused more on neighborhoods and schools. So we kind of worked along side each other in a lot of ways over the years. About a year and a half ago, Clean Memphis launched a sustainability certification for schools. We sat down with Margot and talked a lot about the work she had done with restaurants. We wanted to learn more about how her process worked and how we could emulate something like that in schools, which is a much more complicated process. She provided us with some good insight, such as the suggestion to first do a pilot program because, often, when you start out with something, the end result may look completely different. We took that advice to heart and had our first successful year with our Sustainable School Challenge (SSC) in 10 schools. About six months ago, Margot invited me to have coffee with her and Andy Cates, PGF board president and Colliers International CEO and president of brokerage services. We went over everything Clean Memphis is doing in terms of environmentally sustainability in communities and schools. Later, Margot called me and said she was ready to move on from PGF to a couple of other ideas she had. Margot had really debated whether PGF needed to remain as a separate nonprofit or if it could merge with another organization. We decided that it really could merge with another organization. When we looked around, we felt that the only one that would make sense is Clean Memphis, based on our work around sustainability in schools and neighborhoods. We felt like it did make sense for us to bring it under the Clean Memphis umbrella. Yet, it would still retain the branding of PGF. We can learn a lot from the PGF branding and the success of their program. We are 22 •
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Photos by Don Perry
with anet
hiring a program manager to oversee PGF. That person will take over where Margot left off. We don’t plan on doing anything to the PGF program. We want to keep it as it is at this point and learn more about it.
Understanding the impact on neighborhoods, schools and restaurants really covers all those bases.
RSVP: How does including the PGF program under the Clean Memphis umbrella enhance the Clean Memphis mission?
Boscarino: The Greater Memphis Chamber’s Chairman’s Circle, a group of CEOs, has selected Clean Memphis as its lead community partner in one of its “moon missions” - the “Memphis Clean by 2019” initiative. The year 2019 will be the bicentennial of the city of Memphis. This moon mission will focus on reclaiming Memphis as being one of the cleanest cities in the country. The Chairman’s Circle has provided us with some funding to hire a grassroots engagement coordinator. The grassroots engagement coordinator and I have divided the city into zones. What we are working toward is recruiting zone leaders, within those divisions. We are looking for people who are stakeholders in the community. We will go through a training process with these leaders and then connect them with the Chairman Circle group. Then we want to work with all the stakeholders within those geographic boundaries to adjust cleanup, blight, and all of those sustainability things. That for us is a huge drive for the next three to four years. The corporate community is really behind it. We have a lot of corporate and school participation. I think people are genuinely interested in making Memphis better. They just need to find, and want to find, ways to plug in and feel like they have the tools to do the work. That is our goal: recruit them, train them, and plug them into the existing efforts that many neighborhoods are already doing. We are really trying to move away from episodic volunteerism. We really want our volunteers to be ongoing partners in a particular geographic area. It is helpful when people show up for a day and volunteer, and we appreciate anyone who can lend a hand and spend some time with us, but it is not transformative. When someone is continually aiding and leading the same area, it is transformative.
Boscarino: It adds another layer to the work we are doing. We are actually just coming off of a study that the University of Memphis has been doing for us. It is a program evaluation. We are meeting with them in February to have a strategic planning session to layout our work for the next three to five years. So based on the information coming out of that study and with the merger with PGF, it sort of rounds out our whole programming to. The focus moving forward is how do we create clean, green and sustainable communities, schools and restaurants. The addition of PGF rounds things out and covers all kind of aspects within our mission. We think of sustainability as being a part of everyday life.
RSVP: What are some upcoming programs or projects Clean Memphis will be focusing on this year?
RSVP: How does Memphis compare to other cities as far as blight and litter?
Boscarino: The housing crisis in 2008 and 2009 left Memphis with a lot of vacant and abandoned properties. We have also had a significant shift in some neighborhoods from homeownership to renters, which nothing against renters, they are fantastic, but, generally speaking, they may or may not maintain their property to the same level as a homeowner would. There have also been many out of town investors buying up property locally, and they have left many of those neighborhoods a lot more blighted and littered compared to some other cities. Memphis has the same issues that many cities are facing, such as Detroit, Baltimore, etc. So we are not necessarily unique, but that particular issue has been problematic in terms of the theme of blight. Memphis has also been a little more sluggish in the economic turn around, but it is improving and there is a concerted effort to make change. With the Memphis Clean by 2019 initiative, there is an entire blight team who is looking into legislative and policy changes and looking into reducing the redemption time on foreclosed properties. There are a lot of different things going on that are moving the needle in a positive direction. I think we are at this turning point where people are engaged. They are trying to be more strategic about this work, and I think there is a general sense and vibe going on in Memphis right now that indicates there are a lot of positive things going on, and so people are beginning to say, “I think this could happen here.” That is sort of the mantra we have. We were the cleanest city, and we can be the cleanest city again.
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Gated Community Located in Midtown Memphis in the Historic Evergreen District with Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments
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Executive Director
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RSVP: Blight seems like a tough thing to tackle. How is Clean Memphis going about that? Boscarino: In addition to the grassroots engagement piece, we help neighborhoods identify and report code enforcement issues. What that does for the city is allow the residents to prioritize what their top concerns are. That way they can focus on what the most egregious issues are. Also, by bringing those neighborhood groups together, it allows for some of those issues to be solved on their own, instead of waiting for action from the city and county government, who are
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stretched beyond belief. In some cases, it is just bringing volunteers together to clean up an area or to find a property that is in need and mow the grass or something. The second thing we do is have two inmate crews go out every day, and they do general litter pickup in high profile areas of the city. Those areas include airport area exit ramps, the medical center, downtown and areas of tourism. This allows us to put our best foot forward in areas of tourism and important areas of economic development. It is also a free source of labor and the inmates get to work some of their time off. The inmates are nonviolent, non-sex offenders. It is data supported that if there is litter on the ground, people are more likely to litter. So continued maintenance discourages litter. We support the county in the same way, doing routine litter pickups. I think the community engagement part and this constant attention is helpful. The last part of that equation, the long-term sustainability piece, is education. We have three teachers on staff. They spend their time in schools educating children on how litter and pollution affect the watershed. Not only does it make your neighborhood unsightly, it washes down the storm drain and ends up in the Wolf River, Mississippi River and, ultimately, the Gulf of Mexico. We have a grant from TDOT to focus on watershed health and water quality. We created, with the Office of Sustainability, a watershed map. It is a GSI map, and it has an overlay of where the schools are in that watershed. So the children understand what a watershed is and which one they are located in. We use a threedimensional watershed model that is interactive for the kids. So they understand if you put chemicals on your grass, or you leave litter on the ground, it washes down the storm drain and ends up in the Wolf River, Nonconnah Creek or the Mississippi River. And, although, we don’t get our drinking water from the Mississippi, because we have an amazing aquifer in Memphis, over 18 million people elsewhere do. So we are contributing either to the health or non-health of that ecosystem because of our own actions. Our teachers are certified teachers, and our curriculum is aligned to Social Studies and Math standards. The kids are actually out doing service projects in the community. As part of our SSC project, if we don’t talk about 24 •
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RSVP: What are some things that Memphians can do in their own way to keep their neighborhoods clean?
sustainable. Everyone can be aware of keeping their neighborhoods and local parks clean. If you are driving down the street, and you see something that is bothering you all the time, chances are it is you that needs to do something about it instead of waiting for government action. Something as simple as not blowing your leaves and grass into the storm drains, which affects the watershed, is a super easy way of making a concerted effort to keep things green. Ultimately, it is our responsibility. The state of Tennessee spent something like $15 million in litter pick-up just on roadways. That is not even what the municipality spends. To me, there are so many other things our tax money could be spent on and go towards that are more productive. Litter seems to be a place where we can all step up and help out. Currently, we are looking for team leaders in each of the zones we have created. They can be families or individuals. We need all hands on deck. If we are going to make Memphis clean by 2019, we need everyone participating. We are going to be doing training sessions for all of the first quarter of this year. That will be ongoing. We want to have, by the end of the year, 40 trained team leaders in each one of these areas. Anyone who is interested can contact our office. We will be happy to get them onboard and trained. And, of course, we are also looking for any schools or restaurants interested in getting involved.
Boscarino: I think there is sometimes a lack of understanding about how our own individual activities can contribute to making Memphis greener, cleaner and more
Interested in keeping Memphis beautiful? Check out the Clean Memphis website, www.cleanmemphis.org, and Facebook page www. facebook.com/CleanMemphis
sustainability then we engage them in sustainability. The children create a campaign around energy conservation and how they can lower it. Two of the schools involved have reduced their energy consumption, saving $12,000 to $15,000, which is significant. We help start recycling programs at the school. We have also partnered with The Kitchen Community, who does a garden installation, and we help deliver curriculum about nutrition, plants and wellness. Our educational pillars include: Resource Conservation, Health and Wellness and Improved Environmental Literacy. We have expanded the SSC program to include 17 schools. We received a grant from a local foundation for SSC pilot. Now AutoZone and some other folks have come on to help support that programming. In the long run, if you can raise a generation of young people who understand how to interact with their environment, then that creates a long-term sustainable culture. One of the children’s favorite parts of the program is ticketing teachers who leave their lights on or other things plugged in. Some of them do it in a positive way, praising teachers that they find conserving energy, but most love to do it the other way and tell their teachers where they need to improve. They get a kick out of that.
Join us for Brunch with Blu d ,or Interiors & Your Favorite Local Artists Thursday, February 4th from 10am to 2pm
To celebrate our February Semi-Annual Sale! ENJOY 25% OFF IN-STORE MERCHANDISE ALL MONTH *excluding consignment items
In collaboration with LEE Industries, Blu d’or is also offering 10% off special order upholstery February 6th through February 15th
Featured Artists: Sarah Robertson, Emily Ozier, Gina Cella Aaron, Hillary Butler
Laurelwood Shopping Center 420 South Grove Park Road • Memphis, TN 38117 • 901.207.4392 bludorinteriors.com
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EAST ME
Jan Gordon
Walker Hays
Janie Hopkins
Sylvia Joure
crye-leike.com
Tom Kimbrough
585 South Perkins •
MANAGING BROKER
Joy Kimbrough 109 N. Main St. #1609 Janie Hopkins
$149,000 901-857-5399
7581 Cross Village Dr. Loura Edmondson
Nan Lee
UN 0 Greenway Rd. Megan Stout Carol K. Stout
$449,900 901-461-7464 901-652-4517
119 Chestnut, Oxford Jackson Square
$269,500
Vivian Watson
901-849-8325
6525 Barclay St. Tommie Criswell
Toni Martello
SOLD! 3520 Central Ave. #402 Nan Lee
Kathryn Anne Matheny
Steve Bearman 26 •
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Jeanne Arthur
Paige Arnold
Helen Akin
$234,900 901-484-5722
Fontaine Brown
2287 Massey Rd. Jan Gordon
Sheryl Cassibry
Loura Edmondson
$238,000 901-335-5264
Barb Frazer
EMPHIS
901-766-9004
Suzanne Plyler
Tommie Criswell
Memphis, TN 38117
ASSISTANT BROKER
Sarah Scoggin
Martha Robertson
Adam Williams
Alice Newton $348,000 901-262-2202
65 N. Mary’s Creek Cove Carol K. Stout Carol O. Stout
$1,195,000 901-652-4517 901-674-2960
Jeanne Nixon
NDER CONTRACT
SOLD!
$165,000 901-230-7653
405 S. Perkins Rd. #420 Jan Gordon
UNDER CONTRACT
$174,900 901-335-5264
4739 Colonial Green Place $495,000 Jeanne Arthur 901-634-2800
Leslie O’Leary ®
®
3549 Highland Court Dr. Loura Edmondson
Fontaine Taylor
$235,000 901-262-2202
Megan Stout
664 W. White Rd. Carol K. Stout
Carol O. Stout
Carol K. Stout
$219,900 901-652-4517
Clara Yerger
Jim Pascover
Mig Williams
Vivian Watson
Michael Varner f e b r ua ry 2 0 1 6
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Red Boa Ball A R C
Wearing Red for the
merican
ed
ross of the
Mid-South
R
Drs. Dharmesh and Purvisha Patel
Lori and Randall Swaney
ed boas were the accessories of choice at the American Red Cross of the Mid-South’s sixth annual Red Boa Ball fund-raiser. Held at the Memphis Botanic Garden and sponsored by Sedgwick, the event was an evening of cheer and support for an organization that assists military members and their families as well as helps to save lives while responding to various disasters across the Mid-South, such as residential fires and floods. Alice Higdon chaired the event. With red boas adorning their shoulders, guests enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing as they donated to an organization that helps thousands of people during their hardest life moments. In the lobby, attendees were served cocktails as they took in the large silent auction throughout the hallways of the Botanic Garden. Hot items included a private “BBQ Fest” for 20 people by Jones and Jones Catering, Memphis Grizzlies vs. Dallas Mavericks tickets, a Paula Raiford’s Disco package, and a Marc Jacobs handbag, as well as a variety of jewelry, local eatery gift certificates, and framed art. During a sit-down dinner, a live auction also garnered some heated bidding. Guests clamored to outbid each other for the chance to win packages like the “Downtown Spur of the Moment Get-a-way,” floor seats for the Memphis Grizzlies vs. the San Antonio Spurs game and a one-night stay at the Cypress Lodge; “Bourbon and Dinner with Friends,” a five-course dinner hosted by Chef Cullen Kent his Café Society team along with a tasting of seven bourbons; “Holiday Sparkle from Mednikow,” David Yurman diamond Starburst earrings and a necklace with freshwater water pearls encircled by diamonds; an antique Brunswick Billiard Table; “Relax at the Lake,” five days and four nights at a lake house on Horseshoe Lake; “Lifesaver Breakfast with keynote speaker Peyton Manning,” two tickets to the Lifesaver Breakfast in Nashville featuring the NFL star; and “Golden Reflection,” original art by Todd Stricklin. Additionally, guests had the chance to sponsor “Piper the Puppy,” the adorable stuffed-animal puppy dog given by the American Red Cross to on-thescene children affected by disaster. The American Red Cross has had a continuous presence in the MidSouth since its establishment in 1917 as the Memphis-Shelby County Chapter. Today, the Mid-South Red Cross provides services to Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, Lauderdale, Dyer, Obion and Lake Counties in TN; DeSoto and Tunica Counties in MS; and Crittenden County, AR. The Mid-South Red Cross serves an average of three families a day who are affected by fire. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
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Joseph Long and Ashley Citchens
Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Patrick Lantrip
Jessie and Chris Wiley
Grady and Ayanna Davis
Kendal Williams and Sarah Awtrey
Pam and Andy Branham
Tyler and Nicole McGlaughlin with Karen and Rick McKinley
Caroline Hines and Kenzey Wilson
Candace Moore and Laura Pait
Nancy and Van Menard
Cindy and Tyler Hampton
Emily and Tom Love
Carina and James Van Hoose
Jerry and Mary Sharp with Alice Higdon
Lendon and Sean Ellis
Ashley and Jason Lewin
Ryan and Tracy Alcock
Caitlin Streit and Brad Teplicky
Shereese Flippin, Jill Coleman and Lana Wallace
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Peg Scott, Mark Fledge and Jeana Bailley
Jim and Laura Crone with Brooks Crone and Jaime Delahaye
Richard and Donna Marsh
Terry Donovan and Cathy Chesteen
Tom Reese, Jennifer Childress and Kerry Palmertree
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Angie Huffman and Scott Branson
Blake and Allison Carson
Lisa Domengeaux and Angie Gaeto
Kelly Acree, Kathleen Wilson, Kelly Geer and Colleen Wilson
Felicia Collier and Beth Lara
Diana and Ronnie Kelly
Melonie and Mark Garmon
Donna Carpenter and Saundra Piggies
Janie Venters and Josh Friedl with Allyson and Shannon Smith
Julie and Jason Kiper
Michele Meyers and Carol Meyers
Traci Stubblefield and Julia Chicoskie
Peggy Killett and Wes Parker
Mary Ferguson, Renee Morris and Miki Skeen
Tiffany Crumpton and Jeana Bailley
Daniel Reid and Margaret Griffith
Chris and Katie Webb
Greg and Amy Waller
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Ave Maria Gala Dinner Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
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rank Gattuso Jr., executive director of Ave Maria Home, welcomed guests to the Colonial Country Club for the 2015 Ave Maria Gala Dinner. Serving as emcee for the event, Gattuso announced this year’s recipients of the Blessed Mother Society Award: John Murphy, J. Martin “Marty” Regan and Kathryn “Kae” Werkhoven. Murphy, Dean of St. Dominic School, was recognized for his career that spans over 30 years at St. Agnes-St. Dominic School. Regan was recognized for his professional contributions as an attorney and shareholder with Lewis, Thomason, King, Krieg & Waldrop, P.C. He also serves as a senior staff attorney for the City of Memphis. Werkhoven was Susan and Steve Vescovo recognized, posthumously, for her years of service as administrator at St. Peter Villa Nursing Home, her core Green House training for Shabazim and her fund-raising efforts for Ave Maria. Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Ave Maria capital campaign, dedicated to building additional Green House homes (private apartments) for the facility’s elderly residents.
Dr. Chris Patrick, Jami Gattuso, Marta Patrick and Frank Gattuso Jr.
James and Linda Gattas
Dr. John Smarrelli Jr., Jack Hargett and Deana Sanford
Maria Wilson and Beth Williams
Carolyn and Benjamin Head
Caritas Village Gala Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
F
riends and fans of Caritas Village gathered in the Parish Hall at the Church of the Holy Communion for an annual fund-raiser to benefit the nonprofit organization. Founded in December 2006 by Onie Johns, Caritas Village is part coffee shop, part community meeting hall and part art gallery and performing arts theater. “Caritas Village was intended to give people in the Binghampton neighborhood a safe haven that offered nourishment for the body and the soul,” Johns explained. “For instance, we serve over 20,000 meals annually, one-third of which are served free of charge to those in need of a hot meal.” Individuals serving on the Caritas Village board of directors were recognized Joyce Cobb and Onie Johns for their support and contributions to the ongoing success of the organization. The Joyce Cobb Quintet provided musical entertainment. Emcees for the evening were WMC-TV meteorologist Ron Childers and Dara Davis. Angela Bryant Sykes, event manager for the gala and auction, said proceeds from the event will be used to support operations and programs at Caritas Village.
Staci Johnson and Victoria Loudon Hossler
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Billy Vaughan and Joni Laney
Art Sutherland, Ken Hall and Janice Vanderhaar
Angela Bryant Sykes and Tom Shadyac
Lucy Waechter Webb and Maureen Sorrells
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Suburban Garden Club Christmas Tea Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
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Leslie Dunavant and Melinda Pigors
he Suburban Garden Club held its annual Christmas Tea at the home of Lisa Bobango. The theme for this year’s event was “A Woodland Christmas.” The woodland theme was carried throughout the house with natural materials accented with metallic and crystal decorations. The front yard was decorated with wrapped packages tumbling from a sleigh and a pair of deer made from greenery boughs. In the backyard, a carriage was decorated with Lisa Bobango, Lynda Smith greenery and looked ready to take celebrants for a ride. “The overall effect was like a walk in and Michael Donahue a snowy woods – soft, shimmery and delightful,” Lynda Smith, president of Suburban Garden Club, said. Michael Donahue tickled the ivories, supplying background Christmas music. Suburban Garden Club members provided an assortment of tea treats, both savory and sweet. The event’s Theme Chairman was Melinda Angel Rothenberg. Tea Table Chairmen were Maggi Cobb-Boyd and Nancy Cowen. Design Chairmen were Dianne Callahan, Elizabeth Ferguson, Pam Key, Nancy Klepper, Anne Piper, Jo Lawson, Kitty Stimpson, Priscilla Thompson and Donna Worley.
Joan Heflin, Nancy Cowan and Laura Cofield
Libbee Clifford, Beverly Neale and Meegie Glass
Gena Morrow, Nancy Klepper, Jeanna Fortney and Betty Green
Eileen Callahan and Amy Phillips
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Pam Montesi and Elyse Grant
Catherine Harrisk, Linda Middlecoff and Priscilla Thompson
Betsy Kauffman, Glenda Caldwell, Carole Nelson and Emily Bader
Jennifer Dunavant, Kelly Burron, Lisa Mischke and Elaine Hare
Elizabeth Martin and Carole Hinely
Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
M
ethodist Healthcare Foundation hosted its 14th annual Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon at The Peabody Hotel. The event benefited the West Cancer Center. Robin Roberts, cancer survivor and co-anchor for ABC TV’s Good Morning America, was the featured keynote speaker. She spoke about her life and career, and her battle with cancer. Methodist Healthcare Foundation supports Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare by inviting philanthropic partners to invest in research, Pam Harris and Michael Ugwueke facilities or programs. Cigna was the Presenting Sponsor and FedEx was the Diamond Sponsor of this year’s luncheon.
Leighanne Sodon, Erich Mounce and Elaine Hare
Rev. Diane Harrison and Robin Roberts
,
Patricia Cranston, Susan Hunt and Cheri Theil
Randy Irving and Candace Ashir
Gary Shorb, Paula Jacobson and Joe Birch
Salvation Army Women s Auxiliary Christmas Tea in Fairyland Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
F
or the second year, the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary (SAWA) held a Christmas Tea in Fairyland at Millstone Market and Nursery, an event sponsored by Harris Madden & Powell Insurance, Inc. The Fairy Gardens, whimsical, miniature gardens contained in pots, were the order of the day. Millstone owner, Tricia Hunt, donated ten percent of sales to SAWA. Off the Square Catering provided a light buffet of cucumber sandwiches, savory macaroons and cheese straws. All proceeds raised by Tricia Hunt and Penny Aviotti SAWA are used for funding programs such as the Emergency Family Center, Single Women’s Lodge and The Renewal Place, all a part of the Purdue Center of Hope. “All of the revenue stays in Memphis,” Morrison said.
Capt. Anita Howell, Heather Stallings, Jane Harris and Lt. Stephanie Vincent
Capt. Shelley Bell, Susan Madden, Christina Roberts and Capt. Zach Bell
Rosemary Ballinger and Lisa Morrison
Carol Wolf, Suzanne Lee and Indira Umarov
Linda Miller, Cyndy Straube, Sherry Rhodes and Holly Sealey f e b r ua ry 2 0 1 6
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Toy Bash H G oliday
iving
S Donna and Jon Van Hoozer
Ken McCown and Sara Hall
anta’s elves were busy this holiday season as they helped gather toys at the seventh annual Toy Bash held at the Propcellar. Most of costumed cuties were really members of the University of Memphis Pom Squad. They had their work cut out for them as over 600 people came to the event in support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. “In addition to supporting our Memphis Tigers, the Memphis Pom Squad goes out in force to provide community service year-round,” Pom Squad member Cristen Quick explained. With guests in a festive mood, it was quite a party, but adding to their holiday glow was the warm feeling that came from knowing they were helping others. BNSF Railway presented the Toy Bash. Cost of admission was a ticket and a toy. “Our goal is to serve over 3,500 kids, ages 6 to 18, in the Memphis area this Christmas,” Keith Blanchard, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, said. “We distribute through our six clubs located across the city. For some kids, our gift will be their only present. We believe that each child should be able to open at least one gift during the holiday season, and this is our way of fulfilling that wish.” The evening consisted of live music and performance by the Memphis Soul Revue, along with a Bacardi Bar and a whiskey tasting station. Savory food items from CFY Catering included penne pasta in pesto cream sauce with black olive and tomatoes, charcuterie, hummus with pita chips, couscous, herb-roasted chicken kabobs with tzatziki sauce, babaganoush and shrimp and grits. Krispy Kreme set up a Santa’s Sweet Shop, offering doughnut holes and Nothing Bundt Cakes provided a variety of mini-bundt cakes. Memories of the evening’s festivities were captured by Amurica Memphis photo booth and capped off by a special guest appearance by Santa.
Alan and Brooke Balducci
Hannah and Mike Moton
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Password: RSVP Photos by Don Perry
Marc Gurley and Jessica Clarke
Steve and Teresa Williams
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Mark Erskine and Diana Comes
McKenzie Madden, Cristen Quick and LeAnna Sides
Kathy and LeBraun Andrews
Dayna Madison and Lacy Lee
Hillary Barwick and Lance Barney
Hilda and Braun Stephens
Ben and Beth Buffington
Dan and Brooke Dishman
Josh Ripple, Greg Stone, Erin Mazurek and Bruce Hopkins
Jonathan Chapman and Suzanne Chapman
Melissa Byrd and Carter Fleming
Stacy and Jeremy Black
Daniel Bader and Savannah Bearden
Charlie Lackey, Shane Moton, Leigh Blanchard and Jim Moton
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Monica and Russ Williams
Raneka Norfleet and Rhonnetta Robinson
Jessica Griffin and Chris Bounds
Bob Thomas and Cynthia Talley
Leigh and Guy Guasco
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Reina and Ellis Christian
Joseph Little and Deana Davis
Susannah and Skip Hutchins
Matt and Emily Mulqueen
Aarti and Mark Bowman
Eddie and Stephanie Chittom
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River Oaks Garden Club Holiday Luncheon Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
T
he ballroom at Memphis Hunt & Polo Club was decorated in grand style for the River Oaks Garden Club’s Holiday Luncheon. Centerpieces of red and white roses and lilies trimmed with Holly berries and Cedar topped towering vases filled with peppermints. Party favors, which included either a candle or a holiday-themed china cup and saucer rested on chargers at every place setting. After sipping champagne punch, the ladies enjoyed a meal that began with a mixed green salad, followed by creamed-chicken filled crepes, along with wild rice pilaf and baked Ellen Westbrook and tomatoes with spinach. Servers then delivered dessert, a peppermint ice cream pie with chocolate cookie crust. After lunch, member Betty Debbie Binswanger Green read “The Southern Night Before Christmas,” and the vocal group “High Note,” came jingling in singing Christmas carols.
Kay Liles, Kathleen Pender and Louise Barousse
Sandra Sperry and Diane Davis
Jane Sorsby, Jeanne Fortney and Fini Koerner
Carrie Riedmeyer and Pam Montesi
J.J. Krauch and Cathy Weil
Duration Fine Arts Club Christmas Luncheon Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
D
uring the holidays, the ladies of the Duration Fine Arts Club gathered at the Chickasaw Country for their annual Christmas Luncheon. Everyone enjoyed a scrumptious lunch catered by the club and the program included a musical performance by the Hutchison Middle School Choir “Just Bee Choir,” who sang a variety of holiday tunes and carols. The Duration Club was founded in the 1940s to assist World War II veterans and was intended to last the duration of the war. After the war ended, the club lived on and the name was Kay Prince and Nora McCrory later changed to the Duration Fine Arts Club, with a vested interest in supporting and promoting the arts.
Patricia Meyers and Kay Robilio
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Gail Thompson, Donna McManus and Karen Gahan
Ann Welch, Hilda Mullen, Claire Schneider and Jennifer Schneider
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SAA-SDS Gingerbread House Ladies Night Preview Party Story Submitted | Photos by Jennifer Gionfriddo and Ginger Jordan
S
hoppers and visitors experienced an enchanting winter wonderland from the moment they pass through the doors at the 6th annual Gingerbread House presented by St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School in December. The event kicked off with a Ladies Night Preview Party on Friday before the main shopping event that weekend. Guests were able to enjoy delicious cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from Coletta’s Restaurant while they shopped. The Gingerbread House featured over 60 vendors with an incredible array of unique and imaginative items for holiday gift giving. Chairs of the Karen Mullins and Cathy Bennett Gingerbread House were Allison Smith, Marnie Slattery and Alison Pieralisi. Approximately 600 guests attended at the Gingerbread House Preview Party.
Karen Meredith, Karen Leathers and Linda Speer
Madeleine Martin, Holli Kenney and Leanne McQuown
Karen Seelig, Karen McLaughlin and Kellie Prescott
Amy Folk, Trish Forsdick and Leslie Coleman
Meredith Canale, Haley Ruleman and Whitney Morse
Rachel Thillen and Nancy Kensinger
John and Denyse Bean
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Jennifer Bubrig, Marta Patrick, Linda Habashy, Laura Cary and Kathy Hayes
The Cancer Card Xchange Story Submitted | Photos by Ellie Beard
T
he Cancer Card Xchange (CCX) held its 3rd annual holiday cocktail fund-raiser in December. The event was hosted by Walt and Kelli Geminn at their historic home in Collierville Square. Guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers while Michael Cooper & Friends entertained with Christmas favorites and other songs. Nearly $6,000 was raised to brighten the day of people who are facing cancer. The CCX is a Collierville-based Emily Thomas and Rose Parke nonprofit that was founded by Emily Tickle Thomas in 2011. CCX collects gift card donations to then send to cancer patients. To date, CCX has sent $170,000 plus in gift cards to over 1,800 people all over the country. “We depend 100% on donations. This is the only event we hold all year. We look forward to it every year – enjoying the holiday season while doing good for others.” Jean Roberts and Laura Edgerton
Shelby Geminn, Kelli Geminn, Kaitlin Johnson and Ellie Beard
,
The Exceptional Foundation of West Tennessee Chili Cook-Off Story Submitted | Photos by Megan Zarshenas
T
he Exceptional Foundation of West Tennessee (EFWT) held its fourth annual Chili Cook-Off. EFWT invited chili competitors and chili lovers to enjoy home-style chili, music and games. Also included in the day’s festivities were food trucks and a hot dog eating contest. After cooking their hearts out, first place was awarded to Jim Lewis, second place was awarded to Helen Lewis and The Clear Channel team took home third place. The crowd also gave supplied their own judgMarisa Baggett and Helen Lewis ment and awarded the Temple Israel Brotherhood team as the people’s choice winner and awarded the L’Ecole sponsored team Frick and Frack with the spirit award.
Adam McCollum and Jeff Rosenberg
Becca Childress, Marla Mounce and Jim Lewis
Salvation Army Women s Auxiliary Christmas Card Re-Enactment Story Submitted | Photos By Ellen Westbrook
A t The Peabody Hotel and close to the holidays, professional singers re-enacted artist Steve Nelson’s painting that is featured on the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary 2015 Christmas Card. In 2006, The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary began sponsoring a Christmas Card project to benefit important Salvation Army programs. Each year, since 2012, celebrated local artist and Salvation Army advisory board member, Nelson, has created a beautiful representation of the spirit of Christmas. The original painting is then turned into Christmas Cards, available for purchase. Each card purchased benefited the work of The Mary Nelson and Jenny Hurt Salvation Army.
Linda Miller, Peggy Duke and Susan Madden
Steve Nelson and Ron Belz
Capt. Zach Bell, Brandon Kelly, Capt. Shelley Bell, Capt. Anita Howell and Emerson Davis f e b r ua ry 2 0 1 6
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Josephine Circle Holiday Luncheon Trezevant Manor Holiday Celebration Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
M
embers of Josephine Circle met at The Crescent Club for a holiday luncheon honoring its six new members. After welcoming remarks, club president Sue Taylor wished all members the joy of the season. The theme of “Joy” was her motto during her year as president. “Joy comes from the meaningful work of helping others,” Taylor said. She turned the mike over to program chair Tommie Pardue, who introduced a surprise guest, opera diva Kallen Linda Photopulos, Nan Buck Esperian. Accompanied by Gary Beard, Esperian sang Christmas carols, and as an and Linda Ashmore encore performed an aria from “Carmen.” Josephine Circle provides scholarships and no-interest loans for students pursuing college and graduate degrees.
Story Submitted | Photos by Emily Palmer
R
esidents and friends of Trezevant Manor celebrated the holidays in style at the retirement community’s annual Christmas celebration. Guests were treated to a cocktail hour, dinner and live entertainment from Memphis-based musical duo, Payne and Anderson. Trezevant is a continuing care retirement community in the heart of Memphis, located at 177 North Highland. Trezevant has undergone a $120 million renovation and expansion Mary Minor and Chris Garrett project, which signifies Trezevant’s effort to consistently provide world-class service to current and future residents while continuing to be an anchor in the community.
John and Dottie Grayson
Donna Sue and Wayne Shannon
Ben Bledsoe and Susan Herron
Dixie Power and Ann Bailey
Gary Beard, Sue Taylor, Kallen Esperian and Tommie Pardue
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Connie Walker, Andrea Weaver and Rita Garrigan
Becky Barton, Marsha Cayce and Annette Poole
Pat Ellis, Janie Lappi, Sue Johnson and Josephine Chrestman
Tish Pierce, Tricia Sepko and Mary Ellen McDow
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Judy and Fred Wimmer with Rev. Robin Hatzenbuehler
Photo by Phillip Van Zandt Photography
Meet Platypus!
I’m Platypus, a 12-year-old neutered male black cat. I originally came to the Humane Society back in 2013 with an ulcer on my lip and a severe flea allergy. I looked pretty rough, and I didn't feel good at all. After medication and a little healing time, there's a world of difference: my coat is shiny and smooth again, my lip is healed, and I'm interested in everything around me! I'm a big, friendly boy who loves being petted and strolling around investigating new smells – not too active, not too lazy, but just right! My adoption fee is $75 and that includes me being neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated. HSMSC is offering $50 adoption f February 5-7 as part of our 2nd Annual Kitten Bowl! fees for ALL cats from
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Association of Women Attorneys Judicial Reception Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson
E
ach holiday season, the Association of Women Attorneys (AWA) hosts a Judicial Reception at the home of a different local lawyer. The 2015 event was held at the lovely Hein Park home of attorneys Claudia and Bill Haltom in Midtown. The annual gathering takes place in December as a precursor to the group’s annual dinner, which occurs in January. AWA member Mary McGinnis laid out a spread that included boiled shrimp, roast beef sandwiches with horseradish sauce, ham, deviled eggs, Lauryce and Harrison McIver and fresh fruit. Hostess Claudia Haltom has acted as the AWA board Community Outreach Chair for two years. Founded in 1979, the AWA conducts fund-raising events for its scholarship fund to help women aspiring to become attorneys and promotes public service throughout the community. Ashley Martin, an associate with The Landers Firm, chaired the event.
Keating Lowery, Lisa Gill, Claudia Haltom and Ret. TN State Supreme Court Justice Janice Holder
Chancellor Jim Newsom and Judge Bobby Carter
Kim Brukardt and Diana Comes
Amy and Steve Mulroy
Clark and Christy Washington with Judge Bob Weiss
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Lucie Brackin, Lisa Zacharias, Judge Lynn Cobb and Valerie Smith
Shannon and Bryan Davis
Blanchard Tual and Linda Seely
Bill Haltom and Judge Gina Higgins
Blair Chilton and Colleen Schuetz
Mary McGinnis, Shelby County Juvenile Court Mag. Mitzi Pollard and Anita Lotz
AFTER HOURS
A photo collage of the latest business happenings
L evy Dermatology’s Open House Event B enefiting Dress for Success Memphis
Beth Allison and Kim Metts
Shira Levy, Laura Sherman and Maureen Baum Raholedia Morgan, Nakeshia Walls, Beth Auttonberry and Sandra Burke
Morris Marketing Group Holiday Party & Open House
Kathy Ferguson and Penelope Huston
Valerie Morris and Patrick Hollins Mayor Mark Luttrell Jr., Beth Harrigan and Alonzo Weaver
Social, A Shop for Gracious Living Men’s Night
Carmen and Matt Bond
Stacy and Jamie Sims
Clayton Poole and Peter Poole
Dixon Gallery & Gardens Wine Down: Wines to be Thankful For
Brianna Kremblas and Jake Brett
Erin Hatley and Haley Miles
Maddie Griffith and Trell Shivley
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RSVP Crossword E B R C dited
ACROSS 1 Scat! 5 Bulges 10 Patsy 13 Sprint 14 Broken down 15 Organization that advocates individual rights (abbr.)
16 17 18 19 21 23 26 28
y
Dueling sword Beneficiary House topper Spoiled "Head and Shoulders" purpose Strike caller Public transport Shabby 29 Final points 32 Vienna ____ Choir 33 Afloat 34 Throat infection 36 Fastener 37 Raise one's shoulders 38 Want to expect 42 ____ Tuck 43 Sailors "hey" 44 Sandwich Shop 46 Football field marker 49 Stone bearing an inscription 51 Fib 52 Unpaired 53 Stir fry sauce 57 Total monetary value of a country's goods and services (abbr.) 59 Subdivision 60 Jargon 62 Repeat 66 Particularly variety 67 Marriage site 68 Payable 69 Before (prefix)
uth
assin
70 Spills 71 Not any
DOWN 1 Certain compass direction 2 Cool 3 Miner's goal 4 Brand of sandwich cookie 5 Enjoyed oneseld 6 Spanish "one" 7 Tend to 8 Entreaty 9 Was looked at 10 The "S" in BSA 11 Held high 12 Bloated 15 Orderly arrangement 20 Hoover's org. 22 Let go 23 Salt Lake City locale 24 Plateau 25 Obama's post 27 Japanese dish 30 Chart 31 Animal without a home 32 Panhandle 35 Down in the boondocks 37 ___ Lanka 38 Movie 2001's talking computer 39 Cleveland locale 40 Small lake 41 Ogled 42 Strip the skin off 44 Mock
45 47 48 49 50 54 55 56 58 61 63 64 65
Exclusive Hardships Lair Fallen tree remains Domingo was one of three Alack's partner Terminate Within Lowest in rank Slot Naval rank Egg layer Lyric poem
i t ’ s j a zz!
i t ’s cool
i t ’ s cl a ssy it’s smooth For underwriting information, call 901-678-2560 Visit us online at wumr.memphis.edu
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PHILLI P I RSV B D P y
ennis
hillippi
How to be a grown up A
lot of the time, when I’m up against a deadline for this column, I’ll surf headlines in hopes of finding a suitable topic to write about because I haven’t spent any time in the past thirty days trying to think of one on my own. If I hadn’t already written a column about how lazy I am and how much I hate doing research, I’d be set, but as it happens I wrote that one years ago. Sometimes the headline trawling is a bust because all of the headlines are so depressing. No one wants to read what I think about politics, or a bunch of nuts holding a National Park hostage, or the way some people are stubbornly contending that the booming economy isn’t booming. My opinions about important subjects are just as ill informed as everyone else’s. Then along comes a sweet header like this one: “Carjacking foiled by stick shift.” Ah, morons come through once again. Apparently a couple of young men in Pittsburgh, realizing that starting their own cheese steak joint was too much work, decided to go with a life of crime, and their crime of choice was taking other people’s cars. Unfortunately, the car they chose was a five speed, and they hadn’t learned to drive a stick. It’s like picking cat burgling as a career and not taking a safe cracking class. Granted, only about seven percent of automobiles in this country have a manual transmission, but as a car jacker that means an almost 10 percent chance of failure. You get better odds with Honda airbags. When I learned to drive, close to 40 percent of cars on the road had manual transmissions. Not knowing how to drive a stick was like not knowing how to rewind a cassette tape using a pencil. It was just something everyone learned how to do. At the time everyone also learned how to clean a vinyl record, heat up jiffy pop on the stove and untangle a phone cord, but this column isn’t about how old I am. This is about things that it seems to me every adult should know how to do. Not knowing how to drive a five speed is not
knowing how to do something you can learn to do in an afternoon and be proficient at by the end of that week. Sure, there will be a few moments of panic trying to get it into first going up a hill, and you will stall at an embarrassing time, but, before you know it, you will be able to feel superior to all those automatic transmission only people. It’s like being able to change a tire. There is no reason why anyone over the age of sixteen can’t change a flat tire. Changing a tire isn’t even something you really have to learn. It’s as natural to a grown human as
I’m not trying to hurt anyone’s feelings here, but if you can’t fry an egg, bake a potato or roast a chicken you may need some kind of support animal. When I hear someone say, “I can’t boil water,” it makes me want to throw boiling water at them. catching a squirrel is to a cat. The only obstacle you really have to overcome is the sadistic tightening practices of mechanics with air wrenches. Sooner or later, applying enough pressure, including, if necessary, standing on the jack handle, you will get the lug nuts off. Being able to tell everyone later that you had to change a flat tire is a great way to secretly praise yourself to others. You get to act all angry about the hassle, and the knuckle busting, and the time it took, but all you’re really doing is telling a
story about how capable you are, while hoping that some member of your audience couldn’t change a tire on a tricycle. Smugness comes in many forms. I am capable of changing the oil in a car. I don’t change the oil in my car because it’s a pain in the neck I can pay someone else nineteen bucks to do for me, but I am capable of doing it. I am also capable of operating jumper cables. That doesn’t mean I’m going to cop to having them every time a stranger has a dead battery, I’m not running for Gandhi, but I know how to use them. It’s not the doing these things that matters, it’s the knowing how to do them that matters. I am always nonplussed by an adult male who can’t swing a hammer or operate a circular saw. To me these are basic skills that any guy should have mastered just by being yelled at by his dad or uncle or older brother. My friend Jeff is infinitely more handy than me, and most jobs at my house involve him repairing things while I hand him things. I don’t know anything about electricity because I don’t need to. That’s something else that every person should know how to do: exploit your friend’s abilities by using flattery and feigning weakness. Nobody give a copy of this column to my friend Jeff. This scam had been working for a very long time. I’m not trying to hurt anyone’s feelings here, but if you can’t fry an egg, bake a potato or roast a chicken you may need some kind of support animal. When I hear someone say, “I can’t boil water,” it makes me want to throw boiling water at them. It’s not like I’m expecting everyone to be able to make a soufflé or pick a great wine or flip an omelet, but frying an egg is something an ex-convict does three hundred times a day at the diner across the street from your office. Everyone should have enough basic cooking skills to make a meal, if not to impress someone you want to get into the sack, then at least to be able to give yourself enough sustenance to remain standing throughout the day. There are tons of other things I think all people should be able to do, but most of you have already found something in this column you can’t do, and you’re starting to get kind of mad. My apologies; now go learn how to drive a stick like a person. f e b r ua ry 2 0 1 6
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The
PAST RSV C K M isco
id in
emphis
1956
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pecial events at Channel 5 were always a treat for Midtown neighborhood children back in the 50s. On this particular visit, and after this photo was taken, The Cisco Kid visited the Fulenwider family home at 1895 Linden Ave., a gathering place for all children in the neighborhood. Leslie Fulenwider Key stands in the front row with pigtails, and Joan Fulenwider Higginbotham is situated next to her in a matching dress. Their brother, Jan Fulenwider is right behind the boy with the bow tie. The Cisco Kid is a fictional western character found in numerous films, radio, television and comic books. Photo courtesy of Joan Fulenwider Higginbotham 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.
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