GPAC Gala Memphis in May International Gala Memphis Taste of Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball Fashion Week Jubilee
703 Justana Road
5005 Minden Road
5142 South Charlotte Circle
$494,900
$825,000
$439,900
Unincorporated, TN 38017
Beautiful home. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Energy efficient. Like new with plantation shutters throughout in Spring Creek Ranch Collierville Reserve. No City Taxes. Minutes from 385. Open floor plan with 2 bedrooms and a large office downstairs. Chef's kitchen, large dining room and great room, butler’s pantry, spa master bath, large closets. 3" nail down throughout home and upstairs too in hall. Bonus room, media room, Olympic size pool and tennis in neighborhood included in homeowners’ association. So much room. Well maintained.
Memphis, TN 38117
Memphis, TN 38117
Luxury around every corner in this 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath home located on one of the most desirable tree lined streets in the heart of East Memphis. This home boasts a gourmet kitchen equipped with a Viking stove, built-in refrigerator, double ovens, ice maker, farm sink and large island! The open floor plans invites entertainment with spacious rooms, cedar and stone accents, surround sound and a 30x20 hearth room. The theatre room is equipped with a movie screen, media equipment, surround sound and wet bar. You'll also appreciate all the energy efficient upgrades this home has to offer.
Nancy Huddleston
Beautifully renovated home in one of East Memphis’ most desirable neighborhoods! Sidewalks, tree lined streets and award winning schools! (Richland and White Station) Over 3100 sq. feet, 3 bedroom including luxury master suite and 3.5 baths. Fabulous upscale kitchen features Thermador double ovens, professional level gas range and Sub-Zero 48” refrigerator. Large rooms throughout, side load double car garage. Corner lot. Patio and picture windows overlooking lovely yard. Hardwood throughout, walk up attic, irrigation and storage room off of garage. Just minutes from upscale shopping and dining options!
Sally Isom
Angie Ware
901.484.9494 huddleston@collins-maury.com
901.219.8882
901.598.0447 ware@collins-maury.com
isom@collins-maury.com
24495 Highway 76
255 Ridgewood Drive
160 E. Wickliff Creek Circle
$875,000
$897,500
$1,195,000
Somerville, TN 38068
Incredible horse property on 28.5 acres just east of Somerville, TN. Southern living house plan built in ’05 with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2 half baths. Separate den, dining room, office, library and 3 car garage. Library has hidden storm/safe room. Large laundry room and pantry. Morton 8 stall barn loaded with amenities, detached oversized 2 car garage, 2 separate out buildings for equipment and storage. 90% fenced. Whole house generator “for safety and security!” Check out YouTube video and SomervilleHorseProperty.com
Bill Maury
901.751.4311 maury@collins-maury.com
Piperton, TN 38017
Eads, TN 38028
For those who appreciate timeless elegance, this Magnolia built jewel is nestled on .93 acres and boasts a state-of-the-art kitchen, masterfully crafted wood beams, generous millwork and finest finishes throughout. This stately country-French retreat houses 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths, theater room, bonus room, butler's pantry and sewing/office space. Savor entertaining like never before! Gunite pool with 2 fountains, 2 covered porches, 2 outdoor fireplaces and sensational pool house/guest quarters. Amenities galore and low taxes! Once you see this home, you'll be SOLD!
Kathy Counts
901.493.3701 counts@collins-maury.com
Luxury living in a peaceful serene upscale, gated community minutes from Collierville and Germantown. Custom built with every detail, beautiful hardwoods, travertines, and marbles throughout this home. Luxurious master suite with large sitting/dressing area and office down, amazing outdoor living space with fireplace and screened porch overlooking private yard. Beautiful Architectural design, entertainers dream, every detail thought of in the 5 suite masterpiece.
Tiffany McLemore
Cathy Banks
901.606.2374 banks@collins-maury.com
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
901.259.7829
mclemore@collins-maury.com
Contents June 2017
Features
From the Editor • 8
Emily Adams Keplinger
The value of volunteering
Signature Memphis • 10 Edward Dobbs A President and a King
StreetSeen • 18 Robert Johnson A woodworker of national renown
StreetSeen • 20 Mia Gianotti Henley
Events
Executive Director of Creative Aging Memphis
RSVPhillippi • 53 Two Dark Days Dennis recounts his bout with entertainment withdrawals
Raquel and Tommy Carls
GPAC Gala • 12 A celebration of Memphis music
Esmerelda and Ezekiel Torres
Memphis in May International Gala • 30 Celebrating Colombia
Kelley Lewin and Rusty Robinson
Memphis Moments • 22, 24, 26, 32, 34, 38, 40, 41, 50 & 51
Cover Photo
Sarah Vogelfanger and Bowe Travis at Memphis in May International Gala Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo
Ben Butler's "Old Growth" in Overton Park Photo by Krista Geyer
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Sloan McHugh and Shea Taylor
Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball • 36 Coronation celebration
Avianna Monestario
Memphis Fashion Week • 42 Showcasing local and regional fashion
Ann Kelley and Teri Trotter
Taste of Jubilee • 46
Support for the Blue Streak Scholarship Fund
Volume XXII • Number VI
June 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 Photographers Don Perry Steve Roberts Rebekah Yearout Account Executive Chris Pugh 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 Visit us online at:
www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event:
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Unusual Fabrics
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D sign Consultation
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Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
RSVP Memphis Magazine
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Copyright 2017 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
RSVP Staff
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.
Krista Geyer 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
June
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STYLE I N STO R E
ccording to the Independent Sector’s latest estimated value of volunteer time, a volunteer’s time is worth about $24.14 per hour in the United States and about 1 in 4 adults volunteer in the United States every year. That translates to nearly 63 million Americans volunteering about 8 billion hours of time, talent, and effort—resulting in approximately $193 billion worth of people’s time being contributed nationwide. But the value of volunteers shouldn’t be measured solely in monetary terms. Volunteers make enormous impacts on the organizations, churches and schools they serve and the communities which house them. What is it that makes volunteers so willing to freely give of their time and talents? Ask 10 volunteers that question and you are likely to get 10 different answers—because the motivation is almost always a personal one. For some folks, it is as simple as wanting to support a given cause. Others find that volunteering allows them to satisfy their need for a sense of community with others. Older volunteers often appreciate that volunteering allows them to continue to contribute to their society and that, in turn, gives their own lives more meaning. And as we are learning about the younger generation known as millennials, many want to achieve the satisfaction that comes from knowing that they can foster a change or make a difference in the lives of others. Last month our city hosted its 41st annual Memphis in May International Festival. Although most of the festival events were packed into a month-long celebration, the truth is that it took teams of volunteers working for months, some even year-round, to bring that event to fruition. In all, over 1,500 volunteers gave approximately 20,000 hours of service. And over the last few years, the MIM volunteer program has been named by the International Festival and Events Association as the Best Volunteer Program—three times. Another local tradition, Carnival Memphis, brings together groups of people for plenty of merry-making this month, but many of those participants also volunteer their time to raise money for designated children’s charities. This year’s beneficiaries are The Erika Center at Bodine School, Church Health, and Knowledge Quest. Since the inception of the Children’s Charity Initiative in 1999, more than $2,200,000 with matching funds has been donated to local children’s charities. Our volunteers are a very valuable part of our community. If you are serving as a volunteer—Thank you! If not, please give some thought as to how you might contribute to the enrichment of the lives of others, as well as your own.
THIS M O N T H AT SA D D L E C R E E K
JUNE 18TH Celebrate Dad with a gift as awesome as he is. You’ll find great gift ideas at our unbeatable collection of merchants such as Allen Edmonds, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, J.Crew, Lucky Brand Jeans and more!
OPENING SOON Jos. A. Bank & lululemon
901-753-4484
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Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
June
Edward Dobbs
President, Dobbs Management Service and 2017 Carnival Memphis King
Hometown: Memphis Your Best Quality: Generosity Place You Go
to
Think: My office
Your Lucky Charm: Pictures of my kids Best Advice You Ever Got: Just be nice First Car You Owned: 1985 Nissan 200SX Favorite Place
to
Travel: Beaver Creek, CO
Best Memphis Hangout: Ernestine and Hazel’s Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: The Grizzlies Favorite Song: U2 – Where the Streets Have No Name Your Most Annoying Habit: There are too many to list Who Would Play You Proudest Moment The Highlight
of
of
in a
Movie: Brad Pitt, clearly!
Your Life: The births of my 3 children
Your Day: Coming home to see my family
Favorite Southern Idiom: The sun shines on a dog’s (behind) some days A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite One Goal You’d Still Like
to
to
Dinner: Thomas Jefferson
Accomplish: To make a lasting impact on the city of Memphis
Best Thing About Carnival Memphis: This year we will donate over $250,000 to children’s
charities in Memphis
Something You’ll Never Live Down: Getting a car stuck and it subsequently catching on fire
Photo by Steve Roberts
and burning to a crisp (it’s a long story)
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GPAC Gala
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GPAC Gala
I Valerie and Jeff Morris
Debbie and Angelo Caserta
10th Annual Celebration
n its 10th year, the 2017 GPAC Gala was a celebration of Memphis music. Blues man Daddy Mack played his guitar outdoors, as the guests entered to a champagne welcome. During the cocktail hour, Joyce Cobb played in the lobby, which was bathed in blue light. Servers passed through the crowd offering hors d’oeuvres provided by Simply Delicious Catering, including a perfect bite of Memphis, a la Corky’s, in the form of “BBQtinis,” (salad greens topped with twice baked potato, pulled pork, barbecued ribs, spaghetti, baked beans and coleslaw—all together in single servings). Dinner, prepared by Chef Erling Jensen, was served onstage in the Duncan-William Performance Hall, which was decorated in royal blue, a nod to Royal Studios. The meal began with a spinach salad, followed by squid ink pasta with lobster and adobo cream. The next course featured beef filet with wild mushroomtruffle demi-glace. DeltaCapella performed a Memphis music medley as guests enjoyed their meals, which ended with a to-die-for chocolate soufflé. Jo Anna Harris received the Chairman’s Award. Sharon and Lee Grinspan were presented with the Patron of the Arts Award. Drs. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Lynn and Keith Foley, event chairs, received special recognition from Paul Chandler, executive director of GPAC, who presented Keith Foley with a jacket from Lansky’s “Clothier for the King” that was a replica of one Lansky designed for Elvis Presley. As a treat for Lynn Foley, Boo Mitchell of Royal Studios handed her a special addition to her table’s centerpiece the Grammy Award he was given for recording the Bruno Mars hit “Uptown Funk.” The award was returned to Mitchell at the end of the evening. Auctioneer Jeff Morris got top dollar for a group of unique items, including a shindig for 60 in The Grove at GPAC, a new outdoor venue being designed by Archimania that will add to the concert space on the grounds. Char and Amerigo’s will handle the grilling for the party. A set of David Yurman bangle bracelets and matching earrings, donated by Medinkow, and dinner for eight at the home of rocker Jason D. Williams, prepared by celebrity chef Jennifer Chandler, were also included in the auction. The event ended on a high note with the tunes of Memphis Jones and Lil Rounds, who had people crowded onto the dance floor until the end of the evening.
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Judge George and Lillian Brown
Story by Suzanne Thompson Cozza Photos by Don Perry
Malini Gupta and Mayor Mike Palazzolo
Dan and Brooke Dishmon
John Elkington and Valerie Calhoun
Alice Krista and Phil Tadlock
Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, Raul Cardenas, Rowena Desouza and Tanya Mitchell
Jennifer and Paul Chandler
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June
Susanna Klocke and Tina Bates
Esie and Kevin Williams
Audrey and Evan Arrindell
Autumn Goerke and Melinda Pigors
Chad and Rebecca Cullison with Cynthia and Roel Smit
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Deni Hirsh and Ron South
Betsy and Doug Enoch
Shannon and Nick Vinson
Tracy McGee and Kahari Nash
Carol and Robert Stearns with Sharon and Tom Donovan
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Robert Johnson Honing His Natural Talent Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
June
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StreetSeen
obert Johnson is a woodworker of national renown, yet if you asked most people in Memphis, they are not likely to recognize his name. However, his work speaks for itself. With a list of private clients that reads like a Who’s Who of titans of industry, Robert stays busy without having to advertise his trade. In addition to designing and building custom furniture, Robert does a good deal of furniture conservation work for private individuals with collections. Walnut, cherry, Honduran mahogany and quarter-sawn white oak are often the mediums for his craft. Intricate work such as carvings on furniture legs and architectural pieces like mantels and moldings show off his skill.
Born in Memphis, Robert attended Christian Brothers High School then went off to college at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. “Both of my parents were outdoor enthusiasts and I loved to fish, so I settled on Marine Biology as a major,” recalled Robert. “After graduating from college, I worked as a marine biologist in Alaska for two years.” However, Robert moved back to Memphis in 1981, and fell back on what he knew and loved—a natural talent for designing and building furniture. “Both of my grandfathers made a living as wood workers, one in Southeast Missouri and the other in Yazoo City, Mississippi,” said Robert. “Additionally, my father enjoyed it as a hobby. And I’ve been building objects out of wood as long as I remember.” Robert first set up shop in the small town of Williston and worked at a furniture shop in Collierville. In 1985 he relocated his business to Diana Street, near Overton Square. He found a permanent location in 1989 when he purchased a circa 1905 building on South Main. “My shop is set up in the building that formerly housed Memphis Lumber Company,” explained Robert. “South Main was still waiting for its growth when we opened here. I’ve seen a lot of positive changes over the years. It’s interesting that more than 100 years later this building is being used for wood again.” For all intents and purposes, the old plaster-over-brick building is perfect for Robert’s business, Robert Johnson Furniture. With 13-foot ceilings and walls of windows, there’s ample ventilation and light. And the two-story building offers 14,000 square feet—plenty of room for housing copious quantities of templates and wood, as well as working on large projects. “The biggest piece we’ve done was actually a room,” said Robert. “We built the hand-carved reconciliation room (confessional) for St. Peter Catholic Church on Adams Avenue.” Wondering how Robert honed his mastery of such Old World craftsmen skills and techniques?
“I spent a short time studying at Sotheby’s in New York City as a restoration craftsman,” recalled Robert. “I saw what they were doing and realized that I was doing the same thing in Memphis. I moved back to Midtown and began doing some conservation work for the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. I hired a series of European craftsmen who were trained the old school way—the guild system of apprentice, journey man, then master. Currently Mirek Sniezek, a craftsman from Poland, is working with me.” Word of mouth brought people to Robert’s door. “What we do is strictly custom work,“ explained Robert. “Prototypes are first worked out as plywood templates to allow us to get the dimensions correct before we start on the actual piece. We often work with architects and interior designers. Custom doors are my items of largest volume. Extra touches, like using lovely restoration glass, make each door truly one-of-a-kind.” Along with extensive experience, Robert has an impressive library of furniture books that he uses to study the details of various styles. “That’s kind of the fun of it,” said Robert. “Often a client does not know exactly what they want and we are able to design and build a piece of furniture that meets their individual needs. For instance, we can make furniture with an 18th century look using very traditional joinery. We have experience in a variety of styles ranging from Federal to Arts and Crafts to Art Deco to contemporary designs.” “I take pride in my creations and each needs to be correct in terms of shape, colors, form—the whole thing,” continued Robert. “There is a little bit of myself in every piece and I sign everything I build. My furniture is for the enjoyment of people now and will be here long after I’m gone, a little physical evidence that I was here on Earth.” For more information, visit Robert’s website www.robertjohnsonfurniture.com
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Mia Gianotti Henley Enriching the Lives of Older Adults Through Music and the Arts Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
June
Joyce Cobb with Bosco's Trio—Mike Adams, Jimmy Arnold and Hank Sable
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Ron Jewell performs as Mark Twain
ia Gianotti Henley says she has always had a love of history. Living in historic Central Gardens, she has been surrounded by homes built at the turn of the twentieth century that helped cultivate her appreciation for the kind of charm that often comes with age. That appreciation rings true for people as well as things.
“My grandparents were a big part of my childhood,” recalled Mia. “So, I have always felt at ease—a definite connection—with older people.” After attending Immaculate Conception School, Mia headed to the West Coast to attend the University of Oregon in Eugene. She returned to Tennessee to attend law school at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville. “Sometimes it takes leaving to appreciate the sense of community that a place holds,” explained Mia. “After being away from Memphis for nine years, I was ready to come home and begin putting down some roots.” When it came time to launch her fulltime career, Mia said that Memphis was the only place she considered. Initially she worked for Judge Frank Crawford of the Tennessee Court of Appeals, then she accepted a position with Burch, Porter & Johnson law firm, where she was named a partner. After she and her husband, Paul, started their family, Mia decided to leave the workforce to stay home with their children (who are now 17, 15, and 12). When she returned to her practice of law, she spent a couple of years with Bass, Berry & Sims. Wanting to pursue her interest in nonprofits, Mia ultimately left the practice of law and became a Senior Consultant with Consilience Group, LLC, a boutique consulting firm focused on the non-profit sector. “I worked with a Justice Department effort related to youth violence prevention and through that endeavor began a six-year relationship with Traci Sampson, who is the principal partner of Consilience Group,” recalled Mia. “Most of my work pertained to strategic planning projects for nonprofit organizations, like Church Health, The Salvation Army, Friends for
Life, and others.” “I served as a volunteer and board member for a variety of nonprofits, but I really came to know and understand nonprofit work in a unique way through the insider’s view of my consulting work,” continued Mia. “Honest and unfiltered, that type of vantage point allows you to understand the complexities of the world in which nonprofits navigate.” Last March, Mia solidified her place in the nonprofit sector when she accepted the position of Executive Director for Creative Aging Memphis. “The mission of Creative Aging is to enrich the lives of older adults by bringing music and the arts to places older adults live and gather,” explained Mia. “Through our programming, we offer musical performances and hands-on workshops that include drawing, ceramics, mosaics, glass blowing, and other arts. Additionally, our Senior Arts Series brings music and theatre to over 1,000 older adults by offering four events per year at Theatre Memphis.” The organization operates as a virtual office. In addition to Mia, there are two staff members, Assistant Director Terrie Kirksey and Program Coordinator Teresa Schuman. Mia is utilizing her experience with strategic planning. She is exploring opportunities to realign marketing and communication, and outreach efforts, as she works to increase the number of adults that Creative Aging serves. “I’d love to see us increase the frequency of our events, reaching more older adults who are aging in place (remaining in their homes),” said Mia. “That’s an important programming stream that we hope to further develop.”
With over 650 performances each year in Memphis area senior communities, like assisted, independent and nursing communities, as well as senior citizen centers, Creative Aging is going where older adults live and gather. “Even though we touched over 26,000 individuals in more than 50 participating communities in 2016, we’ve only scratched the surface,” said Mia. “There are 115,000 people over 65 in Shelby County, of that number about 30% live alone.” Mia continued, “Creative Aging wants to help build connections to the community for older adults. We believe that when you enhance seniors’ social and community engagement you are actually improving their quality of life. Participation in and enjoyment of music and the arts has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety. And creating new neural pathways through novel experiences has a positive effect on older adults’ mental agility.” So as more people want to age in place, Creative Aging has its mission firmly in place to bring seniors out and keep them active in the community. “Everyone has some sort of creative talent,” concluded Mia. “Through the programs offered by Creative Aging, we’re trying to leverage those qualities.” Creative Aging Memphis’ Senior Arts Series will host performances at Theatre Memphis at 1 p.m. on June 21, August 23, and October 18. Tickets are available at the door for a $5 donation. For more information about program offerings, visit www.creativeagingmidsouth.org or call (901) 272-3434.
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Memphis Moment
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Memphis Women’s Summit Elevating Memphis
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he Junior League of Memphis (JLM) hosted the second annual Memphis Women’s Summit at the University of Memphis. Valerie Calhoun, anchor of FOX13 Good Morning Memphis, gave the opening remarks. Susan Packard, co-founder of Scripps Networks Interactive and former Chief Operating Officer of HGTV was the Keynote Speaker. Under Packard’s leadership, HGTV became one of the fastest growing cable networks in television history. Breakout sessions and vendor networking filled most of the schedule of the one-day event. Topics ranged from getting more of what one wants out of life to ways women could best connect and make a difference in their community. Sally Pace, a former JLM president and Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications for FTN Financial, made a presentation to college juniors and seniors in the summit’s Leaders of Tomorrow program about how to best develop their potential. Jenny Taylor, current JLM president said, “The Junior League of Memphis (JLM) Memphis Women’s Summit was designed as a community-focused leadership conference that spanned themes of professional, personal and community leadership to invigorate and empower women to elevate themselves and Memphis.”
Gay Landaiche, Jan Cornaghie and Mary Helen Bailey Bondurant
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Sarah Sutton, Elaina Ortega, Emily Vallor and Chloe Lawson
Yelica Pejanovich, Natalie Moore and Sydney Blair Watson
Sally Pace and Leah Fox-Greenberg
Jenny Taylor and Susan Packard
Caroline Kuebler and Page Boden
Margot Chapman, Maggie Cooper and Bonnie Walker
Sarah Colley and Jenny Robertson
Susan Clark and Amy Stack
Jodi Runger, Cathy Perkins, Pat Pope and Wanda Brooks
Karimeh McDaniel and Erin Phillips
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Michelle Johnson, Emily Harrison, Kaelyn Knight and Anna Marsh
Lauren Bowie and Olivia Hammond
Services Offered:
• Microneedling • Botox & Fillers • Chemical Peels • PRP treatments for Hair & Skin Rejuvination
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Sunday June 25th
2:00-5:00pm
7455 McVay Station Court, Suite 110 Germantown, TN 38138 901.244.5688 memphisskindoc.com
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Memphis Moment
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Society of Entrepreneurs Silver Anniversary Celebration
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t was an electric evening at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis as hundreds gathered for the Silver Anniversary Celebration of The Society of Entrepreneurs to recognize Memphis’ greatest entrepreneurs from the past 25 years. As a fitting tribute, artwork by Lisa Dick represented each past recipient of the Master Entrepreneur Award. “Founded in 1991 to foster the development of the entrepreneurial spirit, members of The Society of Entrepreneurs are community leaders and company executives, chosen by their peers, who help nurture the community’s entrepreneurial spirit,” explained Bob Wilson, president of the organization. Don Hutson was Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Ellen Rolfes presented the history of the organization to the crowd. Dr. Mary C. McDonald discussed the book There’s Something in the Water: Intimate Account of River City Pioneers and Innovators. The work was unveiled at the dinner and contains profiles written from interviews with all 117 members of the society. All in attendance agreed, Memphis is on the move thanks to the incredible group of folks honored at this year’s annual celebration.
Adam Cartwright, Susan Mealer and Kelly Crutcher
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Bryan and Casey Burnett
Diane and Richard Copley
Denise Burnett Stewart and Stacie Waddell
James and Rita Kelly
Pat Kerr and Ken Hall
Paula Wagner and Pearson Crutcher
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Peter White, Dusky Norsworthy and Mark Heyman
Walker Uhlhorn, Mayor Jim Strickland and Ellen Rolfes
Jack Belz with Alice and John Dudas
Laura and Jim Ganier
Memphis Moments
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A Night to Remember Benefiting Alzheimer’s Association
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n summer solstice June 21, the longest day of the calendar year, teams of volunteers will join a global effort to raise funds and awareness for the care, support and research provided by Alzheimer’s Association. Supporters in the Memphis area gathered for “A Night to Remember Black and White Party” at Visible Music College downtown as a prelude to benefit the effort. Alzheimer’s Association Mid-South Chapter organized the event, which netted over $8,000. Festivities included a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres by In a Pinch and dancing to the music of DJ Funn. Event sponsors were Elmcroft Bartlett, Guardian Pharmacy, Jones Eyecare, Quail Ridge Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, Shoemaker Financial, and Ron and Lisa Bobal. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline is 800-272-3900.
Deb Kornrumpf, Regina Campbell, Angela Bowden, Stephanie Casey and Roneshia Gentry
Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Steve and Carol Williamson with Christine Williamson, Talbot Buys and Carolyn and William Baddeley
Shawn and Whitney Lane
Louis and Regina Campbell
Kara Holston and Damon Sanders
Zach Kirby with Matt and Courtney Lubozynski and Phillip Branch
Down to Earth Festival Embracing Environmental Sustainability
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helby Farms Park sparkled like a green jewel as it showed itself off to thousands of visitors during the 10th annual Down to Earth Festival. The event sprawled across the grassy plateau that surrounds the park’s new First Tennessee Foundation Visitor Center. For many, the festival afforded a first opportunity to view and enjoy amenities included in Shelby Farms Park Conservancy’s ambitious Heart of the Park enhancement project, completed in 2016. The non-profit conservancy operates and maintains the 4,500-acre public park and 10.8-mile Shelby Farms Greenline urban trail. Down to Earth Festival at Shelby Farms Park embraces environmental sustainability. From simple beginnings, the event has mushroomed into the largest celebration of its kind in the region. Chipping in to present the 2017 version were ARS/Rescue Rooter; Brother Office; Conway Services Heating, Cooling & Plumbing; IKEA; Kroger; Whole Foods Market and YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.
Brendan Donlevy and Kyle Duke
Kevin Thomason and Tara Surratt
Story and Photos by Virginia Davis Arianna, Carolina, Natalie and Danny Garcia
Elizabeth and Aaron Wallace with Bucky
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Lurah Ridenour, Michelle Bowers and Rela Goodwin
June 2017
Ben Siler and Spencer Heard
Matt Womack and Monique Stitts
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EMPHIS
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Paula Sternberger
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Blake Sternberger
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Memphis in May International Gala
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June
Memphis in May International Gala
T Justice Janice Holder and Judy Baker
Mack and Fay Weaver
Al and Jan Lyons
he Skyway at the Peabody Hotel took on an international flavor as Memphis in May (MIM) hosted its annual gala. This year marks the 41st celebration of the Memphis in May International Festival. As a tribute to this year’s honored country, The Republic of Colombia, libations and food were Colombian-themed. Dozens of red roses, a large export from Colombia to the United States, added to the colorful displays. Dancers from the Colombian Forkloric Ballet in Houston, TX, wearing authentic Colombian costumes, greeted guests as they entered the gala. Cocktails were served as the bidding began on silent auction items. As attendees were seated for dinner, they dined on a first course of shrimp and octopus ceviche with avocado and plantain chips. The main course coupled filet mignon and pork belly with white yam puree, arepa, hogao salsa, merlot cumin jus, glazed baby carrots and asparagus. Dessert was flan de coca, a coconut flan served with caramel and fresh berries. A specialty coffee bar, provided by Dr. Bean’s Coffee &Tea Emporium, added a fitting Colombian finish to the meal. Jim Holt, MIM president and CEO, welcomed the crowd and introduced the evening’s honored guest His Excellency Andrés González Díaz, Ambassador of Colombia to the Organization of American States. Ambassador Gonzáles Díaz gave a heart-felt speech highlighting many similarities between Memphis and Colombia. Additionally, See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Audrey and Andrew Liles
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Viva Colombia
he expressed his country’s gratitude for being selected as the 2017 Memphis in May honored country. Next Bobbi Gillis, 2017 Chairman of the MIM Board of Directors, told of her travels to Colombia with a group of leaders from the Memphis in May International Festival. In addition to economic development and diplomatic duties, the group explored the country’s cultural amenities and sourced program elements for the 2017 salute to The Republic of Colombia. Gillis highlighted the large number of local teachers and students who benefit from the annual MIM curriculum guide that is developed and distributed throughout Shelby County Schools. She encouraged attendees to visit Colombian-related exhibits on display until the end of May at venues around the city. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell and City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland both acknowledged the international spirit that is fostered by Memphis in May and thanked Jim Holt, the MIM team and Bobbi Gillis for leading the 2017 efforts. Before leaving the stage, Ambassador Gonzáles Díaz and his wife, Ines, were presented with a commemorative wall plaque made by local artist Stephen Hudson. 2017 International Gala chairwoman Leigh Shockey introduced the evening’s emcee, weekend anchor Rudy Williams of TV Channel Local 24. Internationally renowned performer, songwriter and producer Richard Marx provided music for after-dinner dancing. Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Kevin and Hayden Kane with Trip Trezevant and J.W. Whitten
June 2017
Melyne and Mayor Jim Strickland
Bobbie and Jerry Gillis
Pat and Mayor Mark Luttrell
Ambassador Andrés González Díaz and Inés Elvira Shuck Aparicio
June
Samantha and Pierce Sullivan
Rich and Deb Peterson
Patrick and Machala Gilbert
Marc Surprenant and Sylvie Lebouthillier
Juan Felipe Camacho, Brooke Tweddell and Jim Holt
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Memphis in May International Gala
Amy and Jeff Elmore
Jennifer and Don Lasseter
George Monger and Melodie Holt
Shawna Engel and Seamus Loftus
Nelia Dempsey, Pat Tigrett, Ron Coleman and Beth Flanagan
June 2017
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Memphis Moment
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June
Big Orange Gala Rocky Top Comes to Memphis
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undreds of University of Tennessee supporters gathered at the Memphis Botanic Garden for the annual Big Orange Gala. Knoxville campus leaders Chancellor Beverly Davenport, Vice Chancellor and Athletic Director John Currie and Floyd Akins, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Development, were joined by UT alumni, friends and family for an evening of camaraderie in Memphis. This fun-filled event included dinner, a silent auction and entertainment by Almost Famous. UT has embarked on a journey to become a Top 25 public research university. Attendees of the gala were asked to “join the journey” by being a voice for the university, sharing their UT stories and showing their colors by wearing orange on designated days called “Big Orange Fridays.” Ryan Groves, Memphis UT Knoxville Alumni Chapter Board member, said, “Proceeds from the Big Orange Gala will be used to support Tennessee Pledge Scholarships for students from the Memphis area and West Tennessee. Currently more than 250 students from Shelby County receive the Tennessee Pledge Scholarship.”
Chris and Lauren Winchell
Dr. Beverly Davenport and John Currie
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Kelly and Brent Bunch with Adam Hensley and Pat Demere Nick Rice and Ashley Crawford with Joy and Larry Rice
Kevin Berg and Floyd Akins
Mary Braddock and Amy Ozment
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Ellie Mullock and Kristin Wise
John Lawson and Amanda Duckhorn
June 2017
Keith and Katie Cole with Claudia and Bill Haltom
Katy and Taylor Thomas
Kevin Alexander, John Young and Justin Parks
Katie Norrid Photography
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June 2017
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Memphis Moment
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June
Boll Weevils Party Annual Green Bash
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he riverfront was awash in a sea of green as the Boll Weevils held their annual party downtown. For guests, there was no mistaking that they were in the right place as not one, but two, bright green buses parked along the entrance to the Riverfront Bar & Grill. The buses are the official transportation used by the “Mischief Makers of Carnival.” Members of the Secret Order of Boll Weevils are known for their merriment, and this party was no exception. Local party band City Mix held court on the open air pavilion as party-goers made their way back and forth from the dance floor to the indoor party room. His Evil Eminence Todd Brown (head of the Boll Weevils) was joined on stage by Carnival President Jeff Cole to honor this year’s King and Queen of Carnival, Edward Dobbs and Tayloe Lowrance. Per the krewe’s tradition, there was a formal unmasking of one of the Boll Weevils, Van Raby. Members of other Carnival krewes joined in the fun as the event heralded the upcoming the Carnival Week.
Jackie Zimmerman, Amelia Davis, Mary Alice West and Jaime Hopkins
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Nan Buck and Greta Coger
Vickie and Stephen Cruzen
Ed Galfsky and Todd Brown
Tempe Thompson and Lisa Bobango
Royce Miller, Traci Hamerson and Kacy Maxwell
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June 2017
Maggie Loftin and Brinkley Raby
Ashley Fox and Deana Sanford
Tayloe Lowrance and Edward Dobbs
Thomas Holmes and Gloria Dobbs
John Bobango, Jeff Cole and Buddy Dearman
Kat Scoggins with Beth and Sam Bomarito
Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball
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June
Germantown Charity Horse Show
M Kaitlyn Keppen and Josiah Simmers
Daniel Barron and Virginia Barron
Thomas Loftis and Garner Lesley
ore than 500 guests were present at the beautiful Woodland Hills Ballroom for an elegant evening of royal revelry at the 2017 Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball. The festivities began with a cocktail hour complimented by a table of scrumptious hors d’oeuvres laid out on fine linen. Delicious snacks included an assortment of gourmet cheeses along with hummus and veggies and a mouthwatering spinach dip. After mingling, partygoers took their seats at the banquet tables for the welcome by special celebrity emcee Mike Montana of the Mike and Mandy morning show, and the presentation of the 25 princesses, followed by the coronation of Queen Virginia Elizabeth Barron. It was an historic occasion because Queen Virginia also happens to be the granddaughter of Mrs. Mary Liz Foster and the late Sonny Foster, who was one of the founders of the Germantown Charity Horseshow back in 1947. Chairman of this year’s ball was Mary Aubrey Stafford, Princess Chairman was Nancy France, and the 2017 committee consisted of Cameron Kawell, Robyn Rudisill, and Ali Slott. Also on hand were President Virginia Walker, Vice President Bill Dudley, Secretary Lynda Smith, Treasurer Bill McGaughey, Executive Director Robert C. Lanier, Immediate Past President Jimmy Chancellor, and Directors at Large Brooke Ballenger, Audrey Landrum, and Mary Livesay. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Virginia Walker and Bobby Lanier
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Royal Ball Revelry
June 2017
Guests were invited to wear “Black Tie, Red if you have it”, to set the festive tone of this year’s ball. Germantown Vice Mayor Mary Anne Gibson was among the dignitaries present. After an elegant dinner, partygoers danced until half past eleven o’clock to the sounds of Jeremy Shrader and The Quintessentials. The 2017 Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball was sponsored by Outback Steakhouse, Conway Services Heating and Cooling, Audrey Landrum and Linda Sparks, Chancellor and Son, Chris and Dan Richards, FedEx Corporation, Pegasus of Germantown, R&R Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors, Sunrise Pontiac Buick GMC Truck, and the family of Harold Deford Walker Jr. Queen Virginia’s tiara was contributed by DeAngelis Jewelers, and the Queen’s Gift was contributed by King Furs and Fine Jewelry. The Germantown Charity Horse Show is one of the Mid-South’s oldest and biggest charity events, attracting participants and visitors from all over the world. This year’s benefiting charity is The Exchange Club Family Center. Begun in 1984 to help prevent child abuse, The Exchange Club’s Mission is to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect by replacing abusive and violent behavior with effective parenting skills. The 69th annual Germantown Charity Horse Show will be held June 6 - 10 at the Germantown Charity Horse Show Grounds in Germantown. Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Tim and Mindy with Sandy McCormick and Ross Herrin
Bret James and Pidge MacDonald
Doug Windham and Karen Carlisle
Phillip Lawson and Laura Shifflette
Ashley Evans and William Draper
June
Maggie McCormick and Lauren Parks
Zachary Towne and Meghan Tuttle
Sam Boysen and Kiersten Sudlow
Gene and Shannon Carter
Melissa Jones and Lucia Outlan
Katherine Kollias, Melissa Beall and MaryLisa Wagner
• Germantown Charity Horse Show Royal Ball
Janie Henderson and Lanetta Lanier
Luke Georgi and Sophie Christopher
Reed and Diane Kirksey
Colin Ferguson and Sarah Foster
Samantha and Mark Towne with Liz and Sam Coverdale
June 2017
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Memphis Moment
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June
Cocktails and Conservation Supporting TennGreen
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ocktails and Conservation event at The Old Dominick Distillery. The fundraiser served as an opportunity to announce the organization’s new East Memphis office and their upcoming local projects. Hosted by the Canale Family, Henry and Snow Morgan, and Looney Ricks Kiss, the event also served as a public unveiling for the distillery. “Old Dominick Distillery is a 54,000 square-foot set of historic industrial buildings restored as a spirits distillery,” explained Chris Canale. “But it’s more than a production facility. We’ve designed it to be a destination where people can get together.” Guests were the first to share a sip of pure Memphis as employees of the distillery offered tastings of the signature drink called “Memphis Toddy.” A silent auction served as another highlight of the evening with items such as nature photography, active wear clothing, and gift certificates for unique conservation experiences not normally available to the public. Proceeds from this event will support the ongoing work of TennGreen as the organization continues to focus on conserving wildlife corridors and natural treasures. For more information about TennGreen, visit www.tenngreen.org or call (901) 820-4447.
Ashley Lunsford, Chris Ware and Morgan Carver
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Leighton and Paul Foster with Lon McDurmon and Kristen Frisby
Diana and John Threadgill
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Chuck and Nancy Coe with Estie and John Sheahan
Alice Hudson and Jenessa Casey
Alex Castle and Mark E. Stewart
Laura and Robert Sloan
Allan Ruleman and Henry Morgan
Elaine Spear and Camille Gotten
Wes Milligan and Caroline Smart
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June 2017
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June 2017
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Memphis Moments
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June
Josephine Circle Supporting Their Passion Through Music and Fashions
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s members of Josephine Circle and their guests stepped off the escalator at the Memphis Hilton to attend the organization’s annual fashion show luncheon, they were greeted by festive tunes performed by the Renee Koopman Latin Jazz Trio. This year the fundraiser’s theme was “At the Copacabana.” Table centerpieces carried out the tropical theme with lush arrangements of bromeliads and greenery by Holliday’s Flowers. Champion Ballroom Dancer Josie Howser and Ultimate Ballroom Instructors Anthony Parks and Iura Kora performed to the title song, “At the Copacabana.” Women’s, children’s and men’s fashions for the show were provided by the Shops of Saddle Creek. Rick Gruber, manager of Brooks Brothers, said, “This season’s fashions are showing tropical shades of green, aqua, peach and orange, even in our menswear. The focus is on comfort with fabrics of cotton and linen—and seersucker is always a popular choice for our Memphis climate.” “Proceeds from the event will support the organization’s loans and scholarships program for college students from the Mid-South,” explained Brenda West, president of Josephine Circle.
Jonnafae Hewitt and Patty Calvert
Amanda Kunkle and Elizabeth Spiers
Brooke Vogel and Madelyn Gray
Brenda West and Patti Russell
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Brenda Coppedge, Jane Hester and Sandra Lee Trammell
Gail Kreunen, Elma Schnapp and Jeanne Jones
Dishes for Wishes Benefiting Make-A-Wish Mid-South
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elicia Suzanne’s was packed with folks enjoying food, music and fun during the 12th annual Dishes for Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish Mid-South. Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, Blue Monkey, DeJavu, Majestic Grille, McEwen’s on Monroe, Rendezvous, Restaurant Iris, Rizzo’s Diner, South of Beale and Sweet Grass offered up tasting portions of favorite dishes to lucky ticket holders of the sold-out event. Felicia Willett, chef and owner of Felicia Suzanne’s, hosted the event, and servers passed through the crowd with her smoked salmon deviled eggs topped with caviar. Oh My Ganache Bakery and Smallcakes stocked a cupcake tower. Steve Conley and Karen Perrin emceed the event, with entertainment provided by the Side Street Steppers. Armstrong Relocation Companies and nexAir matched funds that were raised in the Fund a Flight segment, which followed a live auction.
Terri Murphy Hutson, Glenn Floyd, Don Hutson and Kirby Floyd
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Kim and Jeff Kitterman and Bonnie Thornton
Karen Perrin and Steve Conley
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Felicia Willett, Haley Floyd and Amanda Wiig
June 2017
Nat and Molly Akin
Carla Beth and Lee McCallum with Liz Nelson
June
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Memphis Moments
Overton Square Crawfish Festival Mudbug Mania
H Jillian Barron and Marquis Dijon Archuleta
Jessica Tinsley and Berakkah Kuyler
ordes of unsuspecting Louisiana natives showed up at Overton Square in Midtown Memphis one sunny day, ending an annual pilgrimage first attempted by their ancestors 23 years ago. The pilgrims didn’t linger. A throng of eager well-wishers greeted the arrivals, promising that all would have a good time. And then they ate ‘em. Five thousand pounds of mudbugs met their fates in vats of spiced boiling water at the Overton Square Crawfish Festival. Steaming red heaps of the juicy critters slipped down craws as quickly as purveyor Cajun Crawdad’s dished them up. About 15,000 people attended the 2017 festival, sponsored by A.S. Barboro, Bayou Bar & Grill, Event EMS, Memphis Flyer and Waste Pro. Proceeds benefited Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Isaiah Nolan and Thomas Nolan
Ryan Vandinter and Laura Wilkinson
Robyn Butterfield and Marisa Whitsett
Nolan O’Brien and Jim O’Brien
Kaleidoscope Food Festival A Flavorful Experience
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n Greek, the word “Kaleidoscope” means “observation of beautiful forms.” There were many beautiful forms of food and drink to behold and enjoy at the first ever Kaleidoscope Food Festival held at the Wiseacre Brewery in Binghampton. It was a free family friendly event where even the family dog was welcome. Delicious fare included Indra’s Dumplings, Ibti’s Soup, Aroma Kitchen by Flora and CC, and mouthwatering Gyros and Falafel from Raffe’s. All these scrumptious goodies were perfectly paired with a uniquely flavorful assortment of fine craft beers from Wiseacre. Guests were able to experience cultures and flavors from around the world, along with storytelling and performance. This delightful day in the sun was hosted by Little Bird Innovation, and Binghampton Development Corporation.
Kelley Lewin and Rusty Robinson
Michael Armstrong and Paige Penn
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Paul and Samantha Miller
Scarlet Ponder, Kyle Kordsmeier, and Edie Love
Abby and Will Collins
Alex Bienz and KasCandra Dougherty
June 2017
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Memphis Fashion Week
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June
This year Memphis Fashion Week garnered a lot of excitement. In August, they introduced the Memphis Fashion Design Network (MFDN) as the umbrella for all the arms of the ever-growing programs and this January they received an official non-profit status! The MFDN mission to cultivate and educate the fashion industry in Memphis is being supported by the class offerings with the Community Education fashion design courses at Memphis College of Art and the work with emerging designers at the incubator space, The Lab, located on Flicker Street. The classes at Memphis College of Art provide the knowledge to create garments, starting with the basics and then moving towards more disciplined principals. While The Lab currently serves design entrepreneurs and compatible businesses with an environment that will support start-ups, promoting increased success in the Memphis market. The Lab incubator includes studio space, flexible leases, shared us of common sewing and office equipment, direct business assistance and mentoring, and other technical resources. Moving forward, Memphis Fashion Week will continue to be one of the major funding sources for the Memphis Fashion Design Network. This year MFW presented collections of 5 designers along with 18 Emerging Memphis Designer Project (EMDP) designers showcasing 41 looks. Tiena Gwin, a 3 time EMDP alumni, showed her eponymous brand T I E N A as did MFDN member Monte Stewart’s Beg and Borrow Apparel. Memphis Fashion Week also welcomed local designer Sheila Jay, regional designer Sloane Lenz from Austin TX and National headlining superstar designer Nicole Miller, presented by Archer Malmo, to the runway. Runway models weren’t the only stars, the freeze models tripled in number as MFW welcomed more boutiques to showcase their store’s lines during intermissions. The shows couldn’t have been more successful and the launch of the Memphis Fashion Design Network will only bring more success to the annual fashion event. Visit memphisfashiondesignnetwork.com to get involved in the local fashion community.
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Memphis Fashion Week
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June
AVIANNE ROBINSON Teen Collection CASEY BECK Singles Collection MARY AMBROSE Mini Collection
PRES ARCH
SHEILA JAY Memphis, TN BEG AND BORROW Memphis, TN THIS IS SLOANE Austin, TX TIENA Memphis, TN
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June 2017
June
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Memphis Fashion Week
ENTED BY HER MALMO
CARRIAGE CROSSING ECLECTIC EYE INDIGO THE IVORY CLOSET JOSEPH KITTIE KYLE SACHI SPRUCE SUGAR PLUM THERAPY TROUSSEAU Photography
Cover Model: Grace Lee Hair: Pavo Salon Makeup: Shaka Diamante and Feathers Spa Layout: Jo Ann Moss
June 2017
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Taste of Jubilee
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June
Taste of Jubilee
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Scotty and Misty Boone
Janet Donato and Sherry Justice
Fundraising for Education
he 13th annual Taste of Jubilee event at Minglewood Hall benefiting the Blue Streak Scholarship Fund Inc., broke sponsorship records, helping raise tens of thousands of dollars for education. The Blue Streak Scholarship Fund is a nonprofit organization that raises scholarship money to give innercity Memphis children the chance to receive private, faith-based educations. Students attend the Jubilee Schools of the Diocese of Memphis. Of all the students at the schools, 87 percent come from families that are at or below the federal poverty level. Didier Aur, a founder and board member for Blue Streak, said the silent, online-only auction raised about $10,000 and said anywhere from 700 to 800 people attended. Ticket sales alone helped net more than $50,000 for the scholarship fund. Funds were also raised with a wine and liquor pull. “We had more in sponsorships, we had about five new sponsors this year,” Aur said. “So we hit a record with sponsorship. Last year we set a record, and this year, we broke that record.” Guests indulged in a variety of tastes and drinks from the menus of some of Memphis’ finest restaurants, including Slider Inn, Memphis Pizza Café, The Butcher Shop, Bosco’s, Half Shell, Lucchesi’s, Bangkok Alley, Grove Grill, Erling Jensen, Blind Bear and Patrick’s. The band in the main hall, The
Deftonz (Robin Gallo, JT Page, Jim Pettit, Scott Reding and Donnie Sowell), specializes in weddings, parties, corporate functions and charity events. In addition, David Poole was entertaining folks in another room off the main hall. “The two bands, they were just awesome,” Aur said. “They played every different kind of music.” Full bars, a VIP room with an hors d’oeuvres table and specially mixed cocktails featuring locally brewed beers, Minglewood Hall’s specialty smoking room and an open smoking area offered attendees many places to sit and socialize, which Aur said has always been one of the best parts of the Taste of Jubilee event. “With people walking around, mingling, two different bands going on, all that, people didn’t have their cell phones out, they were talking to one another,” Aur said, noting that’s why the event is set up in such a format, to encourage socialization. The registration and auction were online only this year. All the feedback he’s gotten from the public about the event has been great, he added. “I’ve had so many people telling me how awesome the event was,” Aur said. “All in all, it was just super positive, and it’s all to help the kids of Jubilee to pay their tuition, so it’s for a great cause.” Except for Minglewood employees, Aur said all the people working the event were volunteers., The nonprofit is already making plans for next year’s 14th annual Taste of Jubilee.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Adam and Rosa Tutor
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Liza and Jack Wohrman
Story and Photos by Rebekah Yearout Bart Shannon and Brooke Prudhomme
Cara Geissler and Danielle John
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Travis Woodbury and Lauren Goddard
June 2017
Bill and Melanie Miles with Joey and Charla Accardi
Amanda and Ben Ricketts
Taste of Jubilee
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June
Lisa Sikkink, Rachel Levine and Trey Lawson
Laura Schifani, Alex Odegaard and Joe Scamardo
Wesley and Emily Goodnight
Vicki and Ken Billett
Laurel Miles and Michael O’Neil
Leslie Harden, Janelle Booker, Jonathen Willinger and Lillie Johnson
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Lisa and Matt Kiser
June 2017
Renee and Larry Karban
Debbie Sneed, Lydia Frank, Catherine Pohlman and Julie Zdancewicz
June
Katie Pickler and Katie Callahan
Leigh Hendry and Abby May
Emily Graham and Allison Buchanan
Sarah and Marvin Stockwell
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Taste of Jubilee
Taylor Vaughn Jr., Jack Delak and Bryan Watson
Debbie and Kevin Reilly
Sarah Benzie and Rachel Amadeo
June 2017
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Memphis Moments
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June
Brewfest A Celebration of Beer
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or the first time in history, craft beer has surpassed a 10% share of the overall U.S. Beer industry. It was with this in mind that hundreds of local beer lovers gathered at AutoZone Park downtown for the Memphis International Beer Festival, Brewfest 2017. Guests wearing necklaces made of pretzels went from table to table sampling beers from all over the world. Ales, Lagers, IPAs, Stouts, and Pilsners were there for the tasting, along with Central BBQ, El Mero Taco, Wolf River Popcorn and 901 Mini Donuts. Artist and painter Nelson Perez Jr. was on hand with his fabulous 3D paintings, as well as fine cigars from Havana Mix Cigar Emporium. Proceeds from Brewfest 2017 went to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.
Nicole O’Malley and Chris Heine
Jason Massey and Teresa McDaniel
Chase and Katie Nabkouk
Ashley Gordon and Matt Rich
Felicia and Bobby Current
Shawn and Heather Gross
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Leon Burnes and Candice Cole
Erica Anderson and Heather James
Hoedown for Hope A Western Style Gala
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oedown for Hope, a fundraiser for Hope House, was held at Propceller, where guests enjoyed a downhome buffet, complete with chuck roast, turnip greens and cornbread, provided by Heart & Soul Catering. People crowded the dancefloor to participate in a line dancing lesson given by Benji Smith, owner of DanceSmiths. Volunteers handed out MemPops’ frozen treats and Phancy Photo Booth was on hand, so partygoers could take away a memento of the fun night. To top off the hoedown experience, there was even a mechanical bull and a beauty queen! Daring guests took turns riding the bull, and Callie Compton, Miss Memphis, mingled and posed for pictures with guests. Hope House helps HIV positive Memphians by providing rent assistance, case management, day care and other services.
Sally Discenza, Debra Langston, Betty Dupont and Lenox Warren
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Greg and Elizabeth Smithers with Sonja and Maurice Butler
Melissa Ellis and Lisa Bennett
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Andrea Goughnour and Connie Lampen
June 2017
Tyler McGee and Callie Compton
Kim Sauer, Margo Hall, Monica Cardone and Tom Sauer
June
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Memphis Moment
Black Tie and Tennis Shoes Ptah’s Costumed Fun
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Anita Howald, Sharon Fewell, Barb Parham, Barbara Benstein and Pam Pittman
arnival Memphis members are a competitive bunch, and “Black Tie and Tennis Shoes,” an annual shindig thrown by the Grand Krewe of Ptah, gives them an excuse to vie for titles. Krewe members competed for bragging rights for best decorated sneakers, and which group could put on the best skit. The seven-minute performances were zany, usually comedic skits with plenty of singing and dancing. For the third consecutive year, Luxor took top honors, this year with an elaborate skit based on a “Pirates of the Caribbean” film. Ennead won second place for its act “Fractured Fairy Tales.” RaMet snagged third place with a skit depicting Democrats and Republicans battling it out, brought to peace in the end by Elsa from Disney’s “Frozen,” singing “Let it Go.” Memphi won “Best in Show,” chosen by votes from the crowd, with an act featuring the song “It’s Raining Men.” David Ratton won the prize for the Men’s Best Decorated Tennis Shoes, Dee Stephens won the women’s category and Ennead took the group award. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Cindy Mire and Cathy Walsh
Alex Burden and Lexi Perkins Judith Johnstone and Tara Bodansky
Van and Linda Phillips
Chuck Stewart, Karen Davis and Mary Stewart
Ken and Jackie Zimmerman
Mimi Taylor and Tayloe Lowrance
Drayton and Martha Mayers with Carmen and John Vincent
Robert Hanford, Betsy Ferguson and Lee Gilliland
David Ratton, Selden Humphreys and Mary Alice West
June 2017
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Crossword
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June
RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS 1 Become aware of 6 Food inspection agency (abbr.) 10 Espy 14 Back street 15 Speak indistinctly 16 Curved structure 17 Sacred song
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18 Appear 19 Decent 20 Mexican cloak 22 Women's magazine 24 Autumn flower, briefly 25 Express gratitude to 27 Movie award 29 Skill 32 Tax filing mo. 33 Often heard Olympic chant 34 Output 37 Gets older 41 Err 43 African antelope 44 Billy or Nanny? 45 Market 46 Oyster's abode 48 Bikini top 49 Expression of disgust 51 In a chunky way 54 Device used to clock races,. i.e. 56 Computer code for characters 57 Possess 58 Suffered a defeat 60 Jerked 64 Kaput 66 Entity 68 Moses' mountain 69 Denizen of Copenhage 70 Prank 71 Bullwinkle, i.e.
June 2017
72 Misrepresent 73 Fret (over something) 74 Pays to play
DOWN 1 Racers' units 2 Otherwise 3 Like a wing 4 Narrate 5 Dryads 6 Our country's military ship's initials 7 Silky 8 What Hamilton engaged in with Burr 9 What one might have carrying firewood, i.e. 10 ___ Francisco 11 ___ Ballerina 12 Happen 13 Not us 21 Simple 23 Sixth sense (abbr.) 26 Whinny 28 Cliff 29 No muss, no ___ 30 Tropical getaway site, i.e. 31 Toe part 35 Memphis to Nashville dir. 36 Quiets 38 Mongolian desert 39 ___ Grey Tea 40 Remain 42 Prune, before drying
46 Cloaks, as in darkness 47 I Love ___ (tv show) 50 Hairstyling product 52 Noxious vapor 53 Hold down someone's arms 54 Adjust 55 Witless 56 Confidential statement, as in a play 57 Chances of winning 59 Agitated state 61 One nautical mph 62 Comfort 63 Expires 65 Mountain ___ 67 Pull
D
uring one of our recent spring storms there was a loud crash of thunder and suddenly the sound went out on our television. Naturally, I leapt into action and turned the cable box off and then back on. Historically this has been an effective solution for every televisionBy Dennis Phillippi related issue. All we would have to do is sit and wait for a few minutes while the cable rebooted and we’d be good to go. The cable rebooted. The sound was still out. My wife and I have been an aberration for a long time in that we have had one operational TV. So, you can imagine the catastrophe that had befallen us. We had no television. Not if we wanted to hear what they were saying anyway. Since we were unable to find any businesses that actually repair TVs, we accepted the fact that we had to go out and buy a new one. It had been well over a decade since we had bought a new TV and we were at a little bit of a loss. The next day we visited a couple of places that specialize in selling them, and eventually were seduced by one that was UHD. That would be Ultra Hi-Def. We didn’t plan on getting an UHD TV, but the second we saw one hanging on the wall at the big store and were hypnotized by the insane clarity, we were sunk. On a side note, the same thing happened to us decades ago when we went out to buy a sensible car and came home with a shiny red sports car, but that’s a story for another time. With help from an unusually attentive employee, we were able to get the big box into the car and drive away with the thing. Once we uncrated it in our living room we spent two hours trying to hook the thing up ourselves. After a good bit of bickering, and a few attempts on my part to give up, we thought we finally had it. Holding our breath with excitement we hit the button and waited. There was no sound. And it was in black and white. Despite my misgivings I followed my wife’s advice and called the cable company. I’m pretty sure the guy who answered wasn’t given the name Scott at birth, but I’m just going by accent here. I carefully explained the situation to Scott and he carefully explained what he believed might be the problem. This called for several tries on Scott’s part. Eventually it became clear; the cable box was the culprit. The cable box that sat atop our spanking new TV, and looked down on its uninstalled, but perfectly functional predecessor. Scott clicked away
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on his keyboard and informed me that a cable guy would be by to make everything okay in two days. My blood ran cold. We were going to be without television for two days. The last time I was without television for two days was when I was performing at a resort in Lake Placid many years ago and I thought I was going to go insane. I could more easily go two days without food or sleep. Obviously, I have a problem.
Nothing pleased me more than the arrival of the DVR. Rewinding live TV has become one of my life’s great pleasures. Being able to stack up recording of things I might never actually watch, without having to have them on videotape makes me feel like a king.
_____Like most people of my generation I wasn’t just raised watching television, I was raised by television. I am the youngest of six children and I spent the vast majority of my childhood parked in front of the TV and forgotten. My preschool was Captain Kangaroo. My after school care was reruns of Gilligan’s Island and I Dream of Jeannie. The six kids on The Brady Bunch were closer to me than the five other kids living in the same house as me.
RSVPhillippi
Dark Days As a teenager, TV shows were appointments that had to be met. I know this will sound shocking, but when I was a kid there was no way to record a television show. If you wanted to be able to talk about what happened on Roots, you had to watch Roots when it was broadcast like everyone else. Our parents dragged us out of bed to see the moon landing and Nixon resigning because otherwise we wouldn’t see it. Of course I got a VCR as soon as it was possible to get one and wore out tapes rerecording over them time after time. To this day for some reason there are old VHS tapes of Twin Peaks sitting in the top of a closet in our house. Nothing pleased me more than the arrival of the DVR. Rewinding live TV has become one of my life’s great pleasures. Being able to stack up recording of things I might never actually watch, without having to have them on videotape makes me feel like a king. Just the idea that I can hit the record button and maybe watch that last fifteen minutes of a rerun of Bones at some later date thrills me. And now we were faced with two days of no TV. Sure, I could watch streaming stuff on my tablet or phone, but it’s not the same. When you do that you choose one show and you watch it, from beginning to end. There is no flipping around on Netflix. It was flipping around that I missed. Maybe it’s a guy thing. I don’t watch commercials, even though I’m occasionally on them. The second a show or game goes to commercials I’m using my bestest electronic friend, the previous channel button. If the previous channel is also on commercials it’s time to roam. I know probably thirty channel numbers by heart and I can cycle through those in less than a minute. I know instantly if there is any reason to pause on a channel, and I know when there isn’t. God, how I missed flipping around. It was a tough couple of days. These are first world problems people. The good news is; now we have two TVs.
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ca. 1910
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he historic Lyric Theatre on Madison Avenue in downtown Memphis opened in 1908, and was originally called Jefferson Theatre and later The Mazda. The theatre, which burned in 1941, was located at 293-295 Madison Avenue, just west of Junior Achievement’s current downtown facility at 307 Madison Avenue. Photo courtesy of Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South, Inc. 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.
3990 Park Ave. • Memphis • 901.276.0621 Tuesday-Friday 10:00-7:00 • Saturday 9:00-3:00 • Sunday 12:00-6:00
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