March 2016
Staxtacular Tool Box Bash Italian Winterfest Memphi Mid-Winter Ball Q&A with Holly Swogger
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 3
Contents
Features
March 2016
From the Editor • 8 Signature Memphis • 10 New president of Southern College of Optometry, Dr. Lewis Reich, invited RSVP to his humble abode to meet his two rescue dogs, Honey and Tobe, and talk about the first car he ever owned.
Events
StreetSeens • 16 & 18 This fine arts photographer spent the last 10 years documenting the beauty of clouds with her unique mixed media process. The creator of the Bikesmith mobile truck has expanded his bike repair business to include a modern brick and mortar establishment near Broad Ave. StreetSeens highlight Catherine Erb and Jim Steffen.
Vox Popular • 22 Q&A with Holly Swogger, president and board chair of West Tennessee Veterans Home, Inc.
RSVPhillippi • 57
Fashionably Late
Dennis Phillippi ruminates on the clothing we keep for sentimental reasons vs. fashion reasons. Don’t judge his leather "Frankencoat," and he promises not to make fun of your outdated concert tee.
Novella Smith Arnold and Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell
Staxtacular • 12 It was a night of soul, love and basketball as the Memphis Grizzlies and the Soulsville Foundation threw one unforgettable benefit at the Stax Museum.
Amber Perkins and Melissa Noire
Memphis Moments • 20,
21, 32, 34, 35, 42, 43, 48, 50, 52, 53 & 54
Cover Photo Laura and Joey Russell at Memphi Mid-Winter Ball Photo by Don Perry
4 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Jack and Abby Phillips
Memphi Mid-Winter Ball • 26 The Mystic Society of the Memphi presented its new duchesses and dukes and celebrated with an American-themed ball and dinner.
Carolyn and Jimmy Holmes
Tool Box Bash • 36 Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis beat the post-winter blues with a spectacular benefit at the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Sophie Matheson and Lindsay Sigler
Italian
Winterfest • 44 Elvis was in the building for this fund-raiser and celebration of Memphis Italian heritage.
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 5
6 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Volume XXI • Number III March 2016 publisher
Roy Haithcock Editor
Rachel Warren contributing writers
Bill Bannister Suzanne Thompson Cozza Emily Adams Keplinger Patrick Lantrip Dennis Phillippi art director
Krista Geyer photographers
Don Perry Steve Roberts 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 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
We’ll make your golden years shine
Follow us on:
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Gated Community Located in Midtown Memphis in the Historic Evergreen District with Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments
Grand Living in Midtown Kara Holston
Executive Director
Copyright 2016 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
1550 North Parkway | Memphis, TN 38112 | 901.726.4881 | theglenmary.com March 2016
•
RSVP
• 7
From the Editor T
his month as we prepare for the Easter Holiday and St. Patrick’s Day, we may plan on getting together with family and friends. Some of those friends and family may be veterans. According to the president and board chair of West Tennessee Veterans Home, Inc. (WTVH), Holly Swogger, there are 66,000 veterans in the Shelby, Fayette and Tipton counties, the largest concentration of veterans in Tennessee. So whether you are aware of knowing a veteran or not, the possibility that you do is large. This month, I interviewed Mrs. Swogger, who is leading the grassroots effort to build a State Veterans Home to provide these veterans with long-term care and rehabilitation services. We feature Swogger’s and the WTVH’s ongoing mission in our Vox Popular feature story (page 22). Presently, there is no long-term state run facility like this that exists in the tri-county area. Many people may picture an older man when they hear the word veteran. In fact, many of our area-veterans don’t fit this image. While there are many older male veterans, there are now large numbers of young veterans, both men and women, who have or are returning from service and need care, job training and rehabilitation, as well as a team of caring individuals to help them adjust to civilian life. Personally, I had no idea that Shelby County was without a state-run long-term care facility for veterans. In fact, there were many things I was unaware of as far as the wellbeing of veterans in our city and counties until I spoke with Swogger. It is something I rarely thought about, and I don’t think I am the only one in that boat. I ask that everyone do a little research, talk to the veterans you know and let’s see if we can tackle this problem and eliminate many of the holes in our care of local veterans. After all, as Swogger asked, what is the price of someone’s service to his or her country? Priceless, is really the only answer. But the least we can do is provide them with long-term care and support. Read this month’s Vox to learn how you can help the WTVH organization. While Memphis is working toward state veteran care, there are several local nonprofits that are already providing these services to veterans, such as Alpha Omega Veterans Services, Inc. and the Wounded Soldiers Program. National nonprofit, the Wounded Warrior Project also supports Tennessee veterans. Let’s give our veterans, young and old, man and woman, the support they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives.
8 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 9
Dr. Lewis Reich President
of
Southern College
of
Optometry
Hometown: Edison, NJ.
Last Dish You Cooked: Grilled steaks. Favorite Southern Idiom: “Bless your heart.” Who Would Play You in a Movie: Eugene Levy. Best Advice You Ever Got: Never stop learning. Your Best Quality: My wife says it’s my integrity. Favorite Song: “Doctor my eyes” – actually, just kidding. First Car You Drove: Light blue ’73 Beetle affixed with decorative rust patches.
Favorite Place to Travel: A city, state or country that I have never visited before.
Best Memphis Hangout: The lobby of The Peabody Hotel – people and duck watching!
Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Street fairs like the Cooper Young Festival and the RiverArtsFest.
A Nonliving Celebrity/ Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: Benjamin Franklin would be an
Photo by Steve Roberts
interesting dinner guest.
10 •
RSVP
• March 2016
MED SPA
H A I R S T U D IO
M E D 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 •
• Xtreme Lashes
Nails •
$50
• Laser Treatments
In March, receive TOWARDS
BOTOX
OR
FILLER
when you refer a new client for Botox or Filler!
Stephanie Brick
Medical Aesthetician
Amanda Taylor
Medical Aesthetician
Jac Curran, RN Aesthetics Nurse
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 11
Staxtacular “T B ’B ” he
allers
all
T Cathy and Tim Dalfiume
Tiffany and Walter Brewer
Marc Gasol and Cristina Blesa
David and Penney Williams
12 •
RSVP
• March 2016
he Soulsville Foundation, in partnership with the Memphis Grizzlies, brought basketball, mentoring and music for one great night of funky fun at the organization’s largest annual fund-raiser, Staxtacular. Presented by SunTrust, Memphians from all corners of the city gathered at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in the Soulsville neighborhood. Besides exciting musical performances, premium nibbles and noshes and an adult arcade room, the event featured appearances from Memphis Grizzlies players. Grizzlies forward Vince Carter acted as the evening’s illustrious host. Guests dressed in their hippest duds to celebrate not only the site that gave birth to some of the best music in history but, also, to support the Stax Music Academy and the Soulsville Charter School (all part of the Soulsville Foundation). A large silent auction full of sought-after items caught the attention of attendees. Up for grabs was everything from packages for entertainment, jewelry, sports and music memorabilia, travel and art. Art included Adam Exelbierd’s piece depicting the late U of M basketball player and coach Larry Finch passing a basketball to the Grizzlies’ Mike Conley. There was also original hand-drawn artwork by Soulsville Charter School student Khadir Muhammad featuring the Stax marquee and Isaac Hayes. Entertainment packages included a Wiseacre Brewing tour, a Memphis Riverboat experience, and a private performance from Stax Music Academy students. Considering this was “The Ballers’ Ball,” there were oodles of sports memorabilia pieces such as a basketball signed by the Memphis Grizzles, a Vince Carter jersey, and a basketball signed by Dave Joerger. Cocktails and a private tour of Stax with Wayne Jackson and an in-studio experience with a Concord Music Group artist during the recording of an album were popular music packages. Attendees enjoyed a bounty of delicious food catered by CFY Catering located throughout the museum, including a beef tenderloin bar, barbecue nachos, and shrimp and grits. The CFY team also handed out shrimp lollipops – shrimp on a stick brushed with a fresh mango sauce. Strawberry, chocolate and banana mini cupcakes were part of the sweet fare at the Frost Bake Shop table. For the first time, the Soulsville Foundation partnered with popular arcade bar and hangout, Rec Room, creating the “Rec Room South” in the Stax Music Academy building next to the museum. “Rec Room South” made adults feel like kids again with arcade basketball machines and video games. As guests shot hoops and beat high scores, Sekisui Restaurant served sushi rolls and pork loin on rice plated in cute Chinese take-out boxes. Creating unique live art on the spot was local artist Jamond Bullock. Throughout the course of the evening, the G3: The Garry Goin Group, Marcella & Her Lovers, and sets from the Stax Music Academy provided the rocking soundtrack for the night’s festivities. The mission of the Soulsville Foundation is to uplift and invigorate the music a heritage of Stax Records, to develop young people for lifelong success, and continue to inspire and transform the world through the power of soul music. Former Grizzlies players Shane Battier and Brian Cardinal and their wives hosted the original fund-raiser that became Staxtacular, after being inspired by the great work the Soulsville Foundation does with at-risk young people. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry
Jack Sammons with Rhonda and David Porter
Ruthie O’Ryan and Blake Lichterman
Novella Smith Arnold and Tim Sampson
Rachel Belz and Steven Gubin
Kim and Richard Finch
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 13
Denice Gore, Carter Beard and Lisa Ortosecco
Noelle Trent, Terri Freeman, Ron Taylor and Tsitsi Jones
Minerva Little and Linda Carter
Bruce and Camille McMullen
George Kawell, Mike Conley and Hannah King
14 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Eric Hasseltine and Chelsea Chandler
Deannie Parker and Michele Smith
Vince Carter and Jeff Green
Thomas Woodley, Edith Moore, Gene Toy and Lisa Sloan
Carolyn and Marino Hardy
Missy and Nicholas Barhnart
Alana Wright and Alisha Clark
Addie McGowan and Jesse Zellner
Elza and Mike McKenna
Erin Dunaway and Jeb Hart
Jonathan and Alex Rudner
Terry and Caroline Gaines
Daniel Russo and Natalie Martin with Brandon and Emilee Herrington
Tangela Morgan and Angela Anderson
Michelle and Paul Musolf with Marisa and Daniel DeHann
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 15
Catheri n e Erb L C ooking to the
louds
S
elf-taught fine arts photographer Catherine Erb says she has always had her head in the clouds. Her most recent exhibit, “Thin Air,” was a testament to a lifetime of looking to the clouds for inspiration. Featured at David Lusk Gallery, “Thin Air” was the result of 10 years of work for Erb, documenting clouds in planes, cars and on foot. Erb’s pieces are more than beautiful photos of clouds. She used a multi-layered mixed media process that utilized wax and pastels, resulting in stunningly complex and intricate works that glint and glimmer with depth and movement, just as they would in the sky. “Clouds have always fascinated me. When I was a kid, I would look at the clouds, and I thought I could just change their shapes with my mind. I literally believed that so much longer than I should have believed it!” Erb says, laughing, “The good news is that it taught me that my thoughts are very powerful. Maybe I wasn’t changing the shapes of clouds, but my thoughts do affect how people feel and the world around me. When I started shooting ‘Thin Air,’ I was kind of realizing that.” Erb used a specific process for her “Thin Air” pieces. Working with a fine arts pigment printer, she printed her photos to her desired size (for “Thin Air” she went big to encapsulate the feeling of sky). Each print was then put onto a birch board where it was layered with pastels and pigments along with layers of encaustic wax. The core of what Erb does is always her photography, but she is constantly developing the focus and magnifying the energy of her subjects with intuitive and playful touches through the use of her mixed media. She says that she began to get interested in photography in high school, beginning with her art teacher recommending the dark room to her. “My art teacher told me he thought I would be better in the dark room than I was in the classroom. He put me in the dark room and taught me how to process film and make print. He left me there for four years, which was just the greatest thing that ever happened. I didn’t know that I wanted to do photography as a career, but I knew photography was something that was a part of me.” After traveling in Europe for a while and working with other photographers, Erb says she began to use the camera as her journal. “I always wanted to write. I didn’t have the discipline, but I found that I could explore things in images. If I was working on an issue, I would journal about. If I was celebrating something, I would journal about it. But it was all in the form of images.” Recently, Erb participated in an exhibit in New York called “The Memphis Bowery,” a two-day exhibit featuring the work of five Memphis artists. She says she was honored to show with some of the best in Memphis and show off her Memphis pride in New York City. “Memphis is the best place in the world. It is a creative incubator. There is something secret in the air here. As a Memphis artist, I have felt safe to explore my work and share it with people. As an artist, you are constantly exposing yourself, and Memphis is just the softest place to land in terms of that,” Erb says. Erb isn’t stopping at David Lusk. In April, she will show in an exhibit in Charleston, S.C. called “Broad Spaces” and curated by Memphis art consultant Anna Wunderlich. Erb says she is constantly working on several projects at once. Polaroids are fascinating her presently. She says that she and her family stays in California in the summer because of her daughter’s allergies, making it hard for Erb to use her fine arts printer and other studio tools. So, she began tinkering around with Polaroids. Using her Mamiya camera with a Polaroid back, Erb has been handmanipulating the developer across her Polaroid images, adding gold leaf to them and creating small colorful, abstract images. Found objects also inspire much of her work, and, at the moment, she is working on photographing “portraits” of a collected set of moths and butterflies that were preserved in an antique entomological display case Erb recovered in a shop. “I just love taking old things like that and honoring them. I shot them like portraits, and they tell a little story. They are special.” Go to www.catherineerbphotography.com to see more of Erb’s work. Check her out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CatherineErbPhotography and Instagram @c_erb_photo. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts 16 •
RSVP
• March 2016
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 17
Jim MSteffenC
Bikesmith: Pushing
emphis
ycling
Forward
L
ocal Jim Steffen simply wanted to provide excellent bicycle repair service to anyone, anywhere in the city. Steffen and his wife played around with the idea of him going out to community centers with his repair tools packed in his car to work on bikes. What he and his wife, Julia, jokingly called “Bike Doctors Without Borders” quickly became a staple in the Memphis community: the Bikesmith mobile truck. Steffen’s mobile truck features an eye-catching black, white and gold color palette with the Bikesmith logo prominently displayed on the side. The back end of the truck offers the uplifting suggestion: “It’s a Great Day for a Ride”. “The mobile truck lets me take the truck into neighborhoods that don’t have bike repair shops. We wanted the truck to look awesome and quickly catch people’s eyes, and I think it definitely does that. It was a convenient way for people to get their bikes repaired who may not have access to a bike shop, or, perhaps, they have too many bikes to transport them to a shop. So it allowed me to go to them and work on their bikes,” Steffen says. With the success of the Bikesmith mobile truck, Steffen and his team opened the Bikesmith shop this year. Located on 509 N. Hollywood St., right next door to Broad Ave., the Bikesmith shop is a car garage converted into a stylish and modern bike repair facility. Steffen has created a cheerful, fun spot where cyclists can sit down at one of the tables, have a beer, soda or coffee as they watch Steffen and mechanic David Evans fix their bikes in the repair stations located right on the display floor. Even if you don’t have a bike that needs fixing, Steffen invites you to stop by and have a drink and chat with them. Taking in the fabulous Memphis-themed Lauren Rae Holtermann's artwork on the shop’s back wall is more than enough reason to stop by and pay the team a visit. “We have placed repair stands out in the middle of the floor with bar tables and stools. Having that visibility keeps the service front and center and allows people to learn from what we are doing to their bikes,” Steffen says, adding that, presently, the Bikesmith shop offers a monthly class on the basics of bike maintenance, fixing flats and such, but they plan on offering more advanced bike repair classes in the future. Education is something the Bikesmoth team wants to continue providing the local community. Currently, the mobile truck still goes out to neighborhoods but returns every night to its new garage home at the Bikesmith shop. Steffen notes, “The truck is really the heart of this operation.” Displayed in the shop are bikes of all types of new and vintage bikes for sale – cruisers, mountain, road, fixed gear, commuters and bikes for kids. Steffen says they will fix any bike you have, citing a time when he was called to repair a pedicab downtown. Steffen says he is proud to be part of a growing bike scene in Memphis saying, “The bike culture here, I think, goes across a lot of different cultures, which is what I like about it. Everyone wants more people on bikes. Bikers want more people on bikes. I don’t care what kind of biking you do, just get on a bike and have fun.” Visit Steffen and his team at the Bikesmith shop TuesdaySaturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays from 12-5 p.m. Need them to come to you? Give them a call and make an appointment. Follow Bikesmith on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheBikesmithTruck and check out their website www.bikesmithtruck.com. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts 18 •
RSVP
• March 2016
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 19
Adapt-A-Door Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
M
emphis Heritage, Inc. (MHI) hosted its seventh annual AdaptA-Door fund-raiser. Guests gathered at Howard Hall to bid on doors and windows that had been “adopted” by local artists, architects, design firms and other creative minds who then “adapted” and transformed them into works of art and functional furniture. These one-of-a-kind auction items were tangible reminders of what MHI does best, recycling the past. Mollie Riggs took top bragging rights for “Best of Door” with her very special homage to the late great Anderton’s Restaurant that graced Madison Avenue. “As Davey and MJ Weakes Memphis Heritage celebrates its 40 year anniversary, we continue to be the voice for the preservation of the Memphis area’s architectural heritage,” June West, MHI executive director, said. “Our mission is to educate and coordinate individuals and groups to save, improve, reuse and architecturally maintain historically significant buildings, neighborhoods, parks and cultural artifacts of Shelby County, Tennessee.”
Ashley Fisher and Julie Ray
Robert Hodges and Lucinda Letson
Mariam Ebeid and Elizabeth McNeely
20 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Leigh Gilliland, Bill Crowder, Jane Harwood and Janice Smythe-Tune
Ginger Johnson, Lori Patton and Rhonda Jones
Amy Schaftlein, Ben Rednour, Keith Cooper, Frank McCallen and Graham Winchester
Shawna Engel and Jennifer Parsons
Rodney Nash and Cindy Sharpe
Jolee Love and Mollie Riggs
Joey Hagan and Sterling Fisher
Carrie Stetler and June West
Taste the Flavors: Craft Beer & Food Pairing Event Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
T
Aisha King and Jeffery Charmin
Matt Coots and Ashton Deshazier
Meg Ryan, Lauren Rae Holtermann and Kaherawaks Thompson
Amanda Eckresley and Shaun Bernard
he Sickle Cell Foundation of Tennessee hosted its second annual craft beer and food-pairing event, Taste the Flavors. This special event partnered with Cash Saver and the Madison Growler & Bottling Shop to raise awareness and educate Memphians about Sickle Cell. Beer aficionados and foodies alike gathered at Just for Lunch, located in Chickasaw Oaks Village, and enjoyed more than 25 different styles and brands of craft beer paired with delectable small plates from nine local eateries. Rizzo’s Diner served up brisket bruschetta, Central BBQ brought their popular Erica Taylor and Sara Alwafai barbecue nachos, and Local Gastropub offered attendees chorizo and pineapple tacos. Just for Lunch, Pink Diva’s Cupcakery and Déjà vu Restaurant provided desserts. Local breweries present included Memphis Made Brewing Co., Ghost River Brewing, Bosco’s and High Cotton Brewing. Along with AS Barboro, home brewers were also well represented as Bluff City Brewers & Connoisseurs, Memphis Brewers Association, MidSouth Malts and Memphis Filling Station handed out their creative brews.
Michelle Peterson and Kristina Gerlach
Dr. William Terrell
Kevin and Kim Williams
Alexandra Martin and Melissa Marek
Vernessa Lester, Myra Whitney and June Griffin James
Justin Flowers and Juanita Vann March 2016
•
RSVP
• 21
Vox Popular Q&A H S with
olly
wogger
RSVP: What is WTVH, Inc.?
RSVP: What will that funding go toward?
Swogger: It is an organized grassroots effort to ensure that have the skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services that veterans here have earned and deserve. The way we do that is two-fold. We do it through raising public awareness through advocacy programs and other kinds of events. Because of that, we can raise funds. As of now, our sole purpose is to raise the $25.5 million for the local portion. Once we supply the local portion, we can apply for the federal government to cover the rest of the $72 million. Presently, we have $7.2 million pledged or in the bank.
Swogger: Our plan is to build housing for the large number of veterans here and in surrounding counties. In most places, local governments have provided housing for those who have served, but they haven’t here. WTVH, as a group, needs to raise $15.5 million. The state will then contribute $10 million, creating that $25.5 million. We are working to help people understand something that we call “Project 100,” which is a campaign that we encourage veterans’ families, local businesses, social and fraternal organizations, along with the general public to honor a veteran by donating to this
Photos by Don Perry
L
ocal real estate agent Holly Swogger is leading the crusade in Tennessee to build a staterun veterans' living facility. As president and board chair of West Tennessee Veterans Home, Inc. (WTVH), she and a dedicated group of people are on a mission to provide long-term housing, care and rehabilitation services to veterans of all ages and backgrounds. When not acting as a real estate agent with Weichert, Realtors - Benchmark or tutoring second graders at Hawkins Mill Elementary School, Swogger is attempting to raise $25.5 million for this endeavor. Swogger met with RSVP Editor Rachel Warren at Veterans Plaza in Overton Park to speak about this important mission and the challenges many Tennessee veterans face.
effort. With nearly 66,000 veterans in our community, our goal is to raise $100 for each of them. Each dollar raised with Project 100 will go directly to the building fund. After all, what is a veteran’s service worth? It’s priceless. There is no way anyone can put a price tag on it. So we suggest that every veteran’s service is worth, at the very least, $100. That is a number that most people can say, “I can do that.” So people can make these contributions in honor of loved ones that have served. When we started this, there were 70,000 veterans in Shelby, Tipton and Fayette counties. Now, we are down to about 66,000. It is the biggest concentration in Tennessee. But if you multiply 70,000 times 100, then you have $7 million dollars, half way to our goal. This is a $72 million dollar construction project, and it is going to create 230 to 250 brand new jobs. RSVP: How did you get involved with the WTVH? Swogger: For me it was totally by accident. A person at my church asked me if I knew anything about fund-raising, and I foolishly said yes. But I didn’t! It always seemed like it was a good project. The application for it went in in 2004. So here we are. It’s all these years later, and it was 2009 when I joined the group. We are still meeting once a month for lunch at Delta Medical Center and talking. We are hoping that we meet our goal by this summer. If we don’t get there, we just continue on raising funds until we do get there. We don’t get cut off. It’s not the end of the road. It’s nothing like that, but the longer it takes us to get the funds raised, the longer it will take us to get into to what they call Priority 1, which is the place where an application can be made for a matching grant from the federal government. RSVP: What would be the next step that would happen after you filed that application? Swogger: At that point the state takes over. This building will be owned and operated by
22 •
RSVP
• March 2016
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 23
the state. It will be their responsibility to get the matching funds from the federal government. Then it takes about 18 months to build the facility. Right now, we are in the cellar. We are not even in the line yet. We want to get in that line. We have found out that there are about a gazillion small groups of people who want to help veterans, mostly who are vets serving vets. That is a really big deal. That is what veterans do. Vets volunteer at the VA Hospital, they do motorcycle runs to raise funds, they give vets the opportunity to get clothes and food and talk to people about their VA benefits and all that. But here is what I found out about these groups: they are people who are well-intentioned, but many of these groups don’t know how to get a 501(c) (3) and many don’t know how to fund-raise. They get what they can get, and they do what they can do, which is fantastic. We have this organization now that can, hopefully, be the supporter of these groups and provide assistance to them. We have a 501(c)(3). We serve veterans. We have a board of directors. We have people that care, more than anything else, about veterans’ well-being, and we know how to raise funds. We want to be a place where these groups can turn to and get advice on fund-raising, getting certified as a 501(c)(3) and getting recognized. We had to work really hard to become a credible force, and now we are a force. The way we have done this is by spreading awareness. I talk to everybody I can about this as does everybody else who is involved in it because people are really dedicated to it. Now we have Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell Jr., State Senator Mark Norris and Shelby County Commissioner Terry Roland, as well as a bunch of other people that want us to succeed. They all work hard to support us. There are so many people I have met that really care about the veterans and want them to get a fair shake. RSVP: What are veterans’ options for housing right now? Swogger: Organizations like Alpha Omega Veterans Services, Inc. work hard to this end. There are also a number of homeless shelters that are working to make Memphis and Shelby County homeless veterans free. There are many nonprofits and government help that are trying to address veteran homelessness. The problem is, you don’t remove homelessness until you are able to address mental illness, PTSD, and ensuring veterans are trained for jobs. The building we are planning will, hopefully, offer services to veterans with these issues, or it is going to be a kind of clearing house where we can get veterans where they need to be. At the moment, we are really focused on our Project 100. With Project 100, we give out brochures, and we are asking loved ones of veterans, veterans or supporters of veterans to donate with these brochures. They can indicate the 24 •
RSVP
• March 2016
name of the person, where they served and so on. In the future, we hope to be doing something that memorializes the people that really made this possible, as well as honor the veterans’ service. All the contributions come to me. People can donate online at www.veterans-home.com or read more about WTVH, Inc. at www.facebook.com/WestTNVeteransHome. Facebook is a great way to keep up with us. We will be hosting a benefit on April 17 at Neil’s on Quince Rd. We will have a silent auction and lots of bands. We will be showing a movie at Malco Theatres sometime in April that was created by Memphis residents. We want to do something every month up until July, our internal time period to raise the $25.5 million. Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association is awesome, and they do so much for us, including hosting a golf tournament
for us soon. We love it when people do things for us so that we don’t have to spend the money that we have saved for the home. Many great people help us and support our mission. We call them Guardian Eagles. Our board put in $6,500 to start this fund, and we’ve raised $272,000 from individual contributions. I love doing this, and I just got lucky that I happened to be in the right place at the right time. There are so many things to learn, and there are so many things that people don’t know about veterans. When I say veterans, I mean all ages. Another thing people don’t realize is how many women veterans we have. We have a lot! Even members of steering committees are considered veterans. I just feel incredibly lucky to be a part of a mission to help veterans get the treatment and services they deserve.
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 25
Memphi Mi d -Wi n ter Ball “S A ” pirit of
merica
T
Teresa Hurst and Mike Roberts
Kim Pitts and Cindy Gambrell
Elizabeth and Russell Williamson
he Memphis Country Club sported a presidential look as the Mystic Society of the Memphi hosted its Mid-Winter Ball. This year’s theme was “Spirit of America – Memphi Celebrates our Grandest Gatherings.” As such, this event was dubbed "Memphi’s Mid-Winter Inaugural Ball." The formal affair carried out its theme with guests greeted during the cocktail hour by patriotic tunes performed by the Bartlett Community Concert Band. Memphi General Chairman Chris Brubaker and his wife, LaUna, greeted over 300 partygoers. Guests mingled throughout the main hall and dining area in anticipation of the evening’s main event – the introduction of this year’s duchesses and dukes: Roberta and Steve Anderson; Martha and Mark Billions; Beth and Ben Buffington; Heather and Henry Grosvenor; Sharon and Josh Shipley; and Susan and Bobby Solberg. The 2016 Memphi duchesses wore two-piece dresses of iridescent Wedgwood-blue taffeta. Each of their strapless ball gowns featured an embroidered bolero jacket with three quarter length sleeves, an asymmetrically gathered bodice accented with a hand-beaded embroidered appliqué, and a draped full skirt. As each duchess was presented to the Society, she was escorted through the ballroom by her duke, followed by a flagman carrying a banner proclaiming her name. After the formal presentation, guests enjoyed a seated dinner that continued the inaugural theme. The head table in the dining room was festooned with red, white and blue ribbons and bunting. The color scheme was carried through in the floral centerpieces as well, with arrangements of red roses, white hydrangeas and white roses punctuated by orchids, bells of Ireland and other greenery. American flags, white votives and metallic gold stars made for a festive atmosphere. Place settings of presidential-looking china featuring the seal of Memphi were set upon gold chargers. The three-course meal began with a “Red, White and Blue” salad that included cranberries, candied pecans, hearts of palm and bleu cheese in mixed greens topped with sherry vinaigrette. The second course was an “All-American Surf and Turf” that combined beef medallions in a foie gras sauce with Maine lobster tails served with a lemon butter sauce. Desserts or “favorite finishes across the USA” were served in the cocktail lounge. After the meal, guests were drawn to the dance floor by the music of Radio Incorporated. This year’s celebration salutes the automotive industry. Jay Keras is the 2016 king of Carnival Memphis and Sarah Williamson is this year’s queen of Carnival. This year’s president of Carnival is James Brinkley Taylor Jr. The 2016 designated Children’s Charities are Best Buddies, The Exchange Club and the Stax Music Academy. "The original Mystic Society of the Memphi was founded in 1872 and sponsored the initial Memphis Mardi Gras celebrations of the 1800s," Ed Galfsky, executive director of Carnival Memphis, said. "When Carnival started 85 years ago, the Grand Krewe of Memphi was re-instated as our first support group. Today Memphi and it's members continue a proud tradition of supporting Carnival Memphis and the betterment of our community." See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Rudi and Honey Scheidt
26 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Kemp and Anne Conrad
Heather and Henry Grosvenor
Dianne and Brad Champlin
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Ashley Shipman, George Sousoulas, Abe Plough and Pam Sousoulas
Mitch and Kelly Jo Graves
Nancy and Chuck Coe
Summer and Cecil Godman
Carl and Trish Ring with Pam and Chris Anderson
Mike and Joan Heflin
Mike and Martha Hess
James and Melinda Liles
Frank and Leslie Colvett
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 27
Michael and Dr. Shelly Thannum
Karen and Kirk Johnston
Walker and Jennie Robbins
Mimi and Jim Taylor
Joey and Amy Dudek
Steve and Roberta Anderson with Susan and Bobby Solberg
28 •
RSVP
• March 2016
David and Amy Turner
Mark and Martha Billions
Ben and Beth Buffington
Josh and Sharon Shipley
Judy Akins, Chantal Johnson and Patty Welch
Nancy and Jim Brooks
Ricky and Catherine Harris
Jan and Chris Cornaghie
Dennis and Sarah Norton
Jack and Lauren Stimac with Emily and Oliver Banks
Allie and Michael Varner
Mark and Virginia Griffee
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 29
30 •
RSVP
• March 2016
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 31
Ave Maria Wine Tasting and Art Show Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
A
Nancy Adair and Courtney Adair
Mike and Peggy Callahan with Connie and Eric Scott
Lindsay Sigler and Eric Buring
Marcy Crews, Joan Hug and Jane Tonning
32 •
RSVP
• March 2016
ve Maria Home held its annual Ave Maria Wine Tasting and Art Show, presenting original works of art by talented locals and premium wines from Delta Wholesale Liquors. The show was held at the Ave Maria’s Assisi Adult Day Center on Charles Bryan Rd in Bartlett. Bill Lucchesi of Delta Wholesale Liquors served attendees and art lovers a tasting of hand-selected wines as the crowd perused the large selection of art for sale. The art show offered works from 35 local artists such as Nancy Adair, Greg Bowden, Rena Chiozza, Carolyn Moss, Adam Shaw and Yancy VillaLora Jobe and Ralph Gagliano Calvo. St. Francis of Assisi Knights of Columbus served tasty heavy hors d’oeuvres. Proceeds from this event benefit programs and services for Ave Maria residents. Ava Maria home offers adult day care and assisted living and nursing facility to individuals.
Kenny and Dianne Llanes
Mary Louise Chitwood and Mary Bowman
Patty Scully and Tina Niclosi
Frank and Jami Gattuso
Leah Cluck and Amy Cluck
|
The UltraShape reduces fat on arms, thighs and love handles too. It's even newer technology.
Medical Administrator - Amy Funderburk, M.D.
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 33
St. Jude Memphis Marathon Pasta Party Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
T
he St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memphis Marathon is one of the biggest events of the year, and to kick off this year’s 14th annual run, over a thousand runners, supporters and their family members gathered at the Memphis Cook Convention Center for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Pasta Party. Guests dined on a delicious array of bowtie, rotini, and penne pasta with sauces, scrumptious baked chicken, and breadsticks. For dessert there were generous plates of brownies and chocolate chip cookies on each table. WMC-TV Joe Birch was the host of the evening, and St. Joe Birch and Rick Shadyac Jude Children’s Research Hospital president and CEO Rick Shadyac provided the keynote address. St. Jude’s heroes shared their stories of how the hospital provides hope to children stricken with catastrophic illness all over the world. This year’s event raised $8.1 million.
Emily Quayle and Becky Jones
Steve and Margie Crawford
Megan Kirby, Christian Kirby, Christian Kirby II and Anne Kirby
Anna Claire, DeAnna, Kyle, and Koby Walker
34 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Vince and Dina Vassil
Renee Haveman, Leighann Frederick and Trina Lengyel
Ryan, Shelley, Sarah Kate and Reagan Sisson
Alex and Eli Milner with Makenzie King
Rachel Harris and Katy Ravensberg
Heather Kopsky, Danny Dragicevic, Lauren Quillo and Lisa Derus
Kathy, Richard, Luke and Brendan Gruver
Association for Women Attorneys Annual Banquet Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
T
he Association for Women Attorneys (AWA) held its 36th Annual Banquet at the Tower Room of the Tower Center, where members and guests filled every seat to honor 2016 Marion Griffin-Frances Loring Award winner, Maureen Holland, and the 2016 scholarship recipients. As the program began, 2015 AWA president, Keating Lowery, welcomed the attendees, and introduced Eileen Kuo, who gave a brief overview of the group’s Judge Loyce Lambert Ryan Continuing Legal Education program. Amy Mulroy then spoke about the Step Ahead Foundation, and Teresa Jones which provides free long-term birth control, and for which AWA raises funds. One of AWA’s long-time members who recently passed away was honored that night by naming an event in her honor, the Mary Wolff Memorial AWA Golf Tournament. Scholarships totaling $10,000 were awarded to seven law students, after which Holland took the stage to thank AWA for honoring her. A Vermont native, Holland was one of the attorneys on the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges case, which granted marriage equality to same-sex couples in June 2015. Holland was introduced by her daughter, Yvette G. Holland, who is an attorney at her mother’s firm, Holland & Associates.
Sally Barron, Craig Cowart and Melissa Paul
Lisa Gill and Judge Gina Higgins
Laura Deakins and Kirkland Bible
Justice Holly Kirby, Holly Renken, Judge Dan Michael and Linda Holmes
Ali Davey, Ashley Finch, Madison Patey and Danielle Salton
Dean DeCandia, Mary Morris, Nathan Bicks and Earle Schwarz
Keating Lowery and Maureen Holland
Kamilah Turner and Milandria King Hull
Callie Tran, Holly Stanford and Meagan Jones
Lisa Overall and Ginny Bozeman
Sloane Hankins, Barbara Arnold, Diana Comes and Marianna Garner March 2016
•
RSVP
• 35
ToolT Box Bash I
Providing the
ools for ndependence
G
Eric Hasseltine and Chelsea Chandler
Melissa and Bill Prigge
iving revelers an opportunity to shake off the post-holiday blues, Habitat for Humanity hosted its 14th annual Valero Memphis Refinery Tool Box Bash at Memphis Botanic Garden. “This year, we decided to host Tool Box Bash in January to offer a fun way for attendees to cut loose after the busy holiday season while supporting Habitat,” Dwayne Spencer, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, said. Heart & Soul Catering by Michael Francis served guests a tempting buffet, which included chicken and waffles, bruschetta and pasta. There was also gelato for dessert from The Creamery Memphis. The Stellar Cellar Wine & Spirits, Eagle Distributing Memphis and Coca-Cola provided beverages. Stellar Cellar also sponsored a whiskey tasting and a Wall of Wine, where guests could make a donation to Habitat and receive a mystery bottle of wine. The evening’s festivities were presided over by Chelsea Chandler of WREG-TV. G3: The Garry Goin Group provided entertainment while guests reviewed an assortment of auction items such as a live painting by Adam Exelbierd, trips, Memphis-themed gift baskets and activities, restaurant gift certificates and winery tours and tastings. A House Shingle Auction offered guests another way to support the cause. Hotshots Photobooth was onsite to provide guests with festive mementos of the evening. Ashlye McCormick Design, Payton Perfect Designs and Holliday Flowers & Events, Inc. provided table centerpieces. Through the “Fund-A-Need” auction, sponsored by First Tennessee Bank and Tower Ventures, enough money was raised to purchase all the tools needed to construct 21 new homes during that project. All proceeds from the Tool Box Bash go to support Memphis Habitat’s work – empowering local residents to build strength, stability and independence through housing, including new home construction, rehabilitation work and Aging in Place home modifications. “Everyone had a great time, and the event was a big success,” Spencer said. “Funds raised at Tool Box Bash will help support all our work this year, including Habitat for Humanity International’s 2016 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in August. It was an amazing night, and we are so grateful to the sponsors who made the event possible and to everyone who attended the event.” See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
36 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Rachel Remington and Jeff Peterson
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Valerie and Jeff Morris
Zack Underwood and Jenny Williams
Samantha and Bradley Weatherford
Ryan and Shell Ross
Leigh Washington, Chris Riedell and Niki Dunavant
Joy and Bill Routt
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 37
John and Tiffani Stemmler
Steve and Teresa Williams
Kristina and Tom Waldman
James and Sharon Barnes
Kim Morrison and Kris Kirby
Barbara Patronis and Kathy Brooks
Asia and Michael Meador
Sandra Cooper, Jimmy Lovitt, Vickie Carwell and Liza Robinson
38 •
RSVP
• March 2016
James Rudolph and Pamela Haymer
Keith and Pam Scarbrough
Meredith Carrozza, Katie Walsh, Amy Strickland and Bethany McBae
You’re Invited! Easter Open House Saturday, March 19 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Shopping • Food Tastings Fun Activities for Children
901.730.1183 • millstonenursery.com 6993 Poplar Avenue • Germantown, TN 38138 March 2016
•
RSVP
• 39
40 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Dondi and Brian Black
Chris and Snow Jumper
Neal and Marti Ramsey
Greg and Cecilia Webb
Randy and Sally Proctor
Dr. Carla Martin and Dayna Webb
Paul and Shelley Hopkins
Sue and Ed Clark
FINALLY A NON-SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS SOLUTION. Christy Moseley and Stefan Wunn
Almeta and Keith McWright
ORBERATM, a weight loss balloon that can help you meet your goals
DISCOVER ORBERA
TM
Lynne Brotchner, Carol Mason and Phil Bryce
Better Body Memphis Phillip R. Bowden, M.D, P.A. (901) 272-2700
Register for a free seminar today!
betterbodymemphis.com
For more safety information visit Orbera.com Carol and Tom Fuller
Aimee and Joe Davidson
GREAT THINGS GO ON HERE! Beth Smith, Dawn Sharp and Beth Morris
6075 Poplar Avenue – Ninth Floor Memphis, TN 38119 901-684-1010 Crecent-Club.com March 2016
•
RSVP
• 41
Playhouse on the Square Curtain Up Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
P
Courtney Oliver and Christopher Blank
42 •
RSVP
John and Laura Engbretson
layhouse on the Square hosted its annual fundraiser at the theatre in Midtown. Featuring five parties under one roof, the theatre’s Curtain Up event always draws a big crowd who are ready to support their favorite theatre. Playhouse’s Main Lobby hosted the Side Street Steppers as well as a barbeque spread and an ice luge. In the Theatre Café, the crowd listened to music by Carla McDonald, Claire D. Kolheim, Nikisha William, Alexis Grace and Katie and Bruce Miller Thomas Bergstig. Underneath the Playhouse stage, a speakeasy atmosphere of poker, strong libations and musical entertainment provided by singer Austin Carroll lured guests down below. Upstairs, on the theatre’s second level, was the Madjack Record room, where The Memphis Dawls, Delta Joe Sanders and Mark Edgar Stuart performed. Guests enjoyed a spectacular view of the city, a bonfire, burgers and hotdogs, S’mores and music by Playhouse Associate Members Nathan McHenry, Isaac Middleton and Dane Van Brocklin on the theatre’s rooftop.
Karen Kehbein and Eric Phillips
Jordan Russell
Jennifer Hinson and Kelly Phillips
Kiran Riar and Alexis Grace
Caroline Simpson, Noby Edwards and Atam Woodruff
Whit Mavec and Taralyn Gallahan
Krista Wroten and Mary Oglesby
Canby Frazier and Thomas Woodley
Bobby Reynolds and Ashley Peisher
• March 2016
Brew for a Cure Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
F
Will O’Bar, Karyn Waxman, Kim O’Bar and Jerry Waxman
George and Maryanne Cibulas with Susan and Rick Clifford
John and Amy May with Lodie Biggs and Susannah Herring
Meredith Murphy with Ryan and Gene McClatchey and Anne Nesta
or the second year, and with the help of local brewers, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) held the Brew for a Cure event. Inside The Cadre Building downtown, bistro tables were encircled by guests, enjoying a variety of food provided by area restaurants, such as The Arcade Restaurant, Ciao Bella Italian Grill, La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, One & Only BBQ, Tzaiki’s Mediterranean Café, Woodridge Farms, and Frost Bake Shop. The benevolent brewers who Amy and Scott Puddephatt participated included Bernoulli Brew Werks, High Cotton Brewing Co., Memphis Made Brewing Co., Ghost River Brewing and Sweet Water Brewing, and each handed out liberal portions of their libations. Signature t-shirts and “Brew for a Cure” mugs were available for purchase. Music by Super 5 entertained the crowd. Madison Pharmacy, Hollywood Feed, Lexus of Memphis and Mattei’s Garage sponsored the beer-filled bash. Funds raised will be used to help people living with Type 1 Diabetes.
Chris Ballentine and Kimberly Hill
Al Jacobs with Michelle and Raj Midha
Denis and Susan DiAngelo
Sarah Dietrich, Rachel Cohen, Melissa Purcell, Dane Smith and Alam Sharifi
Clay and Jennifer Sisson with Bobbie and Danny Nance
Damie Roberts with Jim and Linda Turpin and Rebekah Coker March 2016
•
RSVP
• 43
It“Ealia:nCWinterfest I ” lvis
iao from taly
T Nick and Jenny Vergos
Betty Ann and Frank Palumbo
he Italian Winterfest returned to the Racquet Club of Memphis for its sixth year. A benefit for the Ave Maria Home and Catholic Education Scholarship Fund, the event brought friends and family together for another celebration of fine Italian cuisine and signature dishes from 15 area restaurants. The event was also a chance to honor Tom Bowen, University of Memphis athletic director, as the third annual Honored Guest of Winterfest. Additionally, Rev. Msgr. Peter Paul Buchignani was the recipient of the Italian Winterfest Outstanding Service Award. New to the event was nationally renowned William Stiles, Elvis tribute artist who presented “Elvis: Ciao from Italy.” Of course, Tony Barrasso, cofounder of the event, was there with his accordion, serenading the crowd tableside. Guests indulged in variety of Italian dishes and treats. Coletta’s Restaurant served its popular barbeque pizza. Muffuletta sandwiches were handed out by Dino’s Grill, and Pete and Sam’s pleased the crowd with its traditional offerings of lasagna and Italian spinach. The Italian Rebel had a delectable fried rice ball with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and topped with marinara sauce. La Baguette was a newcomer this year and delighted everyone with scrumptious chocolate, lemon and pecan cream cheese tarts. Other restaurants presenting delectables were Ciao Baby! Collierville, Folk’s Folly, Garibaldi’s, Lucchesi’s Pasta, Lynchburg Legends, Pesce’s Authentic Italian Sausage, The Racquet Club, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, Rizzo’s Diner and Vanelli’s Deli. Elvis impersonator Stiles sang a selection of Elvis favorites with an Italian twist. Stiles is a World Champion impersonator, holding two international titles in Elvis competitions in Memphis. He has appeared in Elvis documentaries and has performed as Elvis all over the world. In 2014, Stiles was chosen by CNN to appear as Elvis for the network’s travel segment filmed in Memphis. Later in the evening, Janet Donato, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, honored Barrasso with an award to thank him for organizing the event year after year. Joe Birch of WMC-TV acted as the auctioneer for the live auction. DJ Michael Spano also provided dancing entertainment. Italian Winterfest is dedicated to the memory of Barrasso’s two late co-founders, Angelo A. Lucchesi and Sam Bomarito. The Catholic Education Scholarship Fund was established through the Catholic Diocese of Memphis to assist families who desire a Catholic education for their children and need supplemental funding for tuition. The Ave Maria Home in Bartlett offers a faith-based mission of care including assisted-living, skilled nursing, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, adult day center and non-medical home and community-based services for the elderly and young disabled adults in the Greater Memphis area. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
44 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Audrey and Erik Matheson
Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Don Perry
Sam Liberto and Marti Marsh
Nic and Marianna Vescovo
Tony Barrasso, William Stiles and Janet Donato
Vita and Scott Perkins
Monsignor Peter Buchignani, Phil Woodard and Armando Velarde
Erin Mazurek and Greg Stone
The Chauffeur
Concierge
PRIVATE CAR SERVICE • Out of town trips to the tri-state area • Corporate events & downtown excursions • Service to the Airport, Graceland or wherever your needs take you • White glove car service with the best trained chauffeurs
The Chauffeur Concierge strives to exceed your expectations in all aspects providing ef�iciency, �lexibility and reliability.
10%
OFF
BEFORE
P ROMS BOOKED M ARCH 15 TH
www.thechauffeurconcierge.com 901.249.5586 reservations@chauffeurconcierge.com
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 45
Eric Buring, Mary Ann Townsend and Bishop Terry Steib
Georgia and Deacon Bill Davis
Michele and Jacob Buring
Madeline Matheson, Maurice Buring, Sophie Matheson and Libby Buring
Mike Garibaldi and Frank Lamanna
46 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Anna Vescovo and Cindy Dorian
Margaret and Kirk Davis
Chris and Pam Koch
Brian and Kristi Baird with Angela and Joe Fox
Bond and Kelly Smith
Rhonda Willer and Jerry Harrison
Mike Edelmuth, Karen Leathers and Kathleen Edelmuth
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 47
Memphis Grilled Cheese Festival Story and Photos by Patrick Lantrip
W
ith the soon-to-be completed Crosstown Concourse providing both a scenic backdrop and, perhaps, a sign of things to come for the Midtown neighborhood, hundreds of Memphis residents packed a closed off section of Cleveland Ave. for Memphis’ cheesiest new festival. The maiden Memphis Grilled Cheese Festival was organized by the Hi-Tone Café, which moved into the up-and-comMary Bandy ing neighborhood in 2013, and benefitted ALIVE and Rico Fields Rescue Memphis, whose mission is to help find a good homes for rescued animals. Teams with names such as Grit, Grind and Cheese; Mississippi Hippie Cheese Grillers and Chillers; and Cheezus competed in five categories with more familiar opponents like Tamp & Tap, T J Mulligan’s, and Newby’s. Cheezus finished first in the category of “Most Cheesiest,” and Peace, Love and Cheese was awarded “Best Tomato Soup.” T J Mulligan’s Kirby location were the winners of “Most Ridiculous,” and “Fan Favorite,” while Tamp & Tap took the top honors as “Grand Champ.”
Sally Gentry and Rick Williams
Lana DeLuca and Betsy Pollard
Lydia Fuson and Kyle McAthy
Ashlee Jones and Lindsay Higgins
48 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Mark Handwerker and Leigh Hawkins with Maxx
Michael Gipson and Briana Byler
Frank and Natalie Estrada
Megan Pulido and Kelsey Loeffel
Katishia Perry and Dalynn Stewart
Colin Bergstrom and Rahul Jeevan
Danny Bader, Savanna Bearden, Brantley Ellzey and Jim Renfrow
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 49
DeNeuville Learning Center Gala and Auction Story and Photos by Rachel Warren
D
eNeuville Learning Center held its 14th annual Gala and Auction at Hutchison School. Themed “A Trip Around the World,” the gala featured various wines, cocktail buffet, silent and live auctions and entertainment from the Memphis Raqs. The honorary chair was Kimberly C. Cherry, executive vice president for corporate communications at First Horizon National Corporation. Lori Bramlett, DeNeuville Learning executive director, gave opening remarks and welcomed guests to a night of fun and giving. The evening’s emcees included Ron Childers and Kym Clark of WMC-TV. Childers and Clark got the live auction going as guests bid on select Sandra Johnson and Stephanie Tucker packages such as two courtside seats to the Memphis Grizzlies game of the winner’s choice, dinner at Folk’s Folly, the “Chattanooga VIP Weekend Vacation,” and the “Breckenridge, CO Vacation.” The purpose of the night was to raise funds and awareness for DeNeuville. DeNeuville works to guide women from all backgrounds and cultures in learning the skills needed to make positive choices for themselves and their families, which is accomplished through education and counseling.
Burton Bridges, Elise Dillingham and Katy Nair
Cara K. Jamison and Mary Catherine Fogleman
Mary Jean Crenshaw and Claire Gavin
50 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Chris Frazier and Lisa West
Laura and John Hehn
Mickey and Dana Foster
Lori Bramlett and Ron Childers
Tracie Burke, Maureen O’Brien and Becky Wauford
Miranda Lensing, Chuck Siegfried, Kimberly Cherry and Tami Salvaggio
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 51
Hearts for Hope Gala Story Submitted | Photos by Van Jolly
T
Clay and Jennifer Durley
he Associated General Contractors – West Tennessee Branch (AGC) are working toward “Building a Better Memphis.” The group held its 2016 Hearts for Hope Gala which benefited the Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM). The gala was held at Woodland Hills Event Center and featured an evening of dancing, heavy hors d’oeuvres and silent and live auctions. Guests enjoyed live music from party band The Soul Shockers. The silent auction offered the crowd the chance to bid on autographed sports and music memorabilia, weekend retreats, and gift certificates Randy and Kesandra Odom to some of the best restaurants in town. AGC is known for building highways, railroads, buildings and bridges but decided in 2014 that it wanted to also be known for helping build better futures and lives in Memphis. It began its Hearts for Hope Campaign that works toward supporting organizations providing help and opportunities to Memphis residents. MAM provides access to quality mentoring programs with well-trained staff to at-risk youth through eight neighborhood centers in disadvantaged Memphis neighborhoods in partnership with families, schools and community organizations.
Pat and Kim Siano
Mike and Lynda Fulton
Kevin Crow and Kelly McQuage
52 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Theresa and Ron Sheppard
Chad and Heather House
Jonathon and Janne Torres
Valarie Hight and Kenny Hight
Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell Jr., Chuck White, State Senator Mark Norris, Randy Odom and Skip Burks
Grand Krewe of Ennead Coronation Ball Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
T
he Coronation Ball of the Grand Krewe of Ennead, held at the University of Memphis Holiday Inn, always marks the start of carnival season, and coronation balls will be held for each of the other nine Grand Krewes during the upcoming months. When the program began, royalty of other Krewes in attendance were recognized, and Ennead’s 2015 King and Queen, Bill Hunt and Barbara Baker, took the stage to bid their subjects adieu. The procession of the 2016 royalty began with flagman Stacey Montgomery, followed by duchesses: Paola High, Peggy Fitzgerald and Camilla Wilson, and Joanie and Michael Lightman dukes: Steve Grushkin, David Brockman, and Jim Frommel. King Alan Barfield and Queen Pat McWilliams were then presented. In her remarks, McWilliams demonstrated to all just how deep the roots of Carnival run in some of its members. “My first experience with Carnival was when I was in the 2nd grade,” McWilliams said, remembering her attendance at the Children’s Ball. The king and queen took to the dance floor for the first dance of the evening, signaling the beginning of the royal reveling.
Pat McWilliams and Alan Barfield
James Aldinger, Sharon Fewell and Thomas Holmes
Brad and Debbie Halbrook
Annie Taylor with James and Keri Taylor
Donna Strazi, Charlie Shoaf, Barbara Benstein and Mike McNeer
Andrew and Ashley Shipman with Kirk and Karen Johnston
Steve Grushkin, Stacey Montgomery, Marion Marr, Jim Frommel and David Brockman
Richard Hendricks and Laura Alexander-Dodds
Paola High, Peggy Fitzgerald and Camilla Wilson
Judith Johnstone and Joe Brandenburg March 2016
•
RSVP
• 53
Heartlight Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
T
he Versant Supply Chain Warehouse took on a second life as an event venue when Agape Child & Family Services hosted its 2015 HeartLight event. Approximately 1,300 people turned out to support Agape’s mission of transforming lives. Guests dined on a buffet of nachos, shrimp and grits, catfish, barbecue and desserts catered by First Choice Catering. Grizzlies’ PA Announcer, Rick Trotter welcomed the crowd. The featured keynote speaker was Martha Carter Marion “Big Dog” Brown from SOS Ministries. David and Christine Wood Jordan, executive director of Agape, spoke to the crowd about “being part of the solution” by investing in the lives of others, as well as the local community. The evening was capped off by performances by singer/ songwriter Ellie Holcomb whose personal reflections shared uplifting messages of hope and encouragement. She joined her husband’s band, Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors, for a second set as the couple lit up the stage with their music, their brand of medicine for the soul.
Drew and Ellie Holcomb
Jim and Rachel Harbin with Jim Harbin IV
Amber Wakefield, Abigail Lewis and Stephanie Lewis
54 •
RSVP
• March 2016
Suzanne and Sexton Barrett
William and Ellen Losch with Brian and Tait Mellone
Kameryn Johnson, Chloe Johnson and Wendy Joachim
Brice and Katie Alvord
Andrea Carter and Kayla Rhodes
Glenn and Laura Greenwell
Katherine Cozzens, Courtney Loftis and Christy Sharbel
Twana Whitlock and Sasha Hosick
March 2016
•
RSVP
• 55
RSVP Crossword E B R C dited
ACROSS
1 Levels 6 Chances of winning 10 Frequency of rotation (abbr.) 13 Spitefulness 15 Herr's wife 16 Time period in history 17 Biased
18 19 20 22 24 26 28 29
y
Preference, slangily Perch Scams Flair Epidermis One way to serve tea Margarine Overt 30 Supreme Greek deity 31 Dorm dwellers 32 Ermine, sable or mink 33 Tear 34 Skirt edging 35 Testimonial 37 Without layovers 41 Kimono sash 42 Chimney dirt 43 Unrefined metal 44 ____ Willow Tree 47 The best local Memphis magazine 48 Make ready, briefly 49 Not out of 50 "My Country 'Tis of ____" 51 Removes moisture (var.) 52 Hair soap 54 Bait 56 Mutt 57 Conclusions 59 Team lineup 64 Gets older 65 Nary (2 wds.)
uth
assin
66 Pigpen 67 Final 68 Galloped
DOWN
1 Flightless bird 2 Moving truck 3 Santa helper 4 Bread enriching vitamin 5 Offspring 6 Not at work 7 Window coverings 8 Michelangelo's famous statue 9 Mideastern canal 10 Vend anew 11 Valued 12 Jewish breads 14 Sea eagle 21 Strainer 23 Zips 24 Goad 25 Lotion brand 27 Prompt 29 Frequently, poetically 30 Type of pasta 31 Penny 33 Deep red 34 Hoola ____ (child's toy) 36 Breast 37 New and different 38 Designer Burch 39 Mined minerals 40 Vitality
42 Memphis to Mobile direction 44 Sign of the zodiac 45 Not injured 46 Van Gogh's "___ Night" 47 Memphis college 48 Musical "fast" 50 Polynesian island nation 51 Salivate 53 Ring, as a bell 55 Coffee serving container 58 Concord, e.g. 60 Crest 61 Memphis to Jackson, TN direction 62 Scarlet
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
56 •
RSVP
• March 2016
PHILLI P I RSV B D P y
ennis
hillippi
Fashionably Late W
hen I got married in 1986 my wife bought me a nice new suit and a pair of dress shoes for the big event. Previous to this, I owned two sport coats, both of which had enormous shoulder pads and two pairs of “dress” shoes, one was a pair of boat shoes and the other a pair of cream and brown saddle ox. None of this was appropriate attire for any wedding, much less my own. The suit cost somewhere around a hundred bucks and the shoes were, I think, around thirty bucks. Back then we were both pretty freaked out to put a hundred and thirty bucks on a credit card, especially considering that having a stable relationship, and an actual place to live, meant that my waistline was already rapidly outgrowing my new suit. The shoes, on the other hand, I never outgrew, and therein laid the problem. Having been a seriously broke comic on the road, I was naturally very frugal. Those shoes fit like a dream, and there was no reason on earth for me to replace them. So I didn’t. For over twenty years. At every dress occasion where my black shoes were the proper choice, I would proudly point to them and mention that I got married in those shoes. It was over two decades before my wife finally pointed out that my “wedding shoes” were, in fact, little Capezio looking shoes that went out of style around the same time as my knit ties and double belts. To be honest, it was a shock. I had always considered myself a pretty fashionable guy, and here I was sporting shoes that made it look like I was auditioning for “A Chorus Line.” With great reluctance I parted with almost the same amount I had shelled out for my entire wedding ensemble, including a free belt and tie, for a single pair of shoes. This went against my penurious nature until I wore those bad boys, and now I’ll never part with them. You may be beginning to see the problem. There are some garments that every one of us not only can’t part with but also can’t stop wearing. My friend Johnny Hot Body, why that’s his name is a long story, continues to wear this Charlie Brown t-shirt
that, when we met, was pretty funny, but now it’s impossible to even tell that it once had a brown stripe across the front. In fact, I think it may even be a second generation Charlie Brown shirt, but this one has also long outlived its shelf life. T-shirts are one of the most common of these death-defying relics. One of my friends still wears a “Chicago” t-shirt from a concert on Mud Island in the late eighties. Norma wears one from the “Cult,” also back in the eighties. Michael can still occasionally be spotted sporting his “Pig” shirt, provenance unknown. At least people have heard of “Chicago” and the “Cult.” “Pig”
To be honest, it was a shock. I had always considered myself a pretty fashionable guy, and here I was sporting shoes that made it look like I was auditioning for “A Chorus Line.” doesn’t even play at Indian Casinos. One friend of mine said that her husband still has a tank top from Lake Havasu with a wildly tasteless spring break joke on the front. I hope to God he doesn’t wear it any more. Not because of the offending phrase, but because it’s a tank top, and no man has any business wearing a tank top in public unless he’s being paid to play a sport. I was shocked to learn that my old friend Katherine still has her gym shorts from
junior high back in Charlotte where we grew up. I don’t want to pass judgment, but she’s my age. That means gym shorts from junior high back in the seventies. Globetrotter gym shorts. “Hoosiers” gym shorts. Most of these are examples of things that are either too threadbare or too out of style to wear. One garment that I simply cannot part ways with is perfectly attractive on the outside, but is a disaster inside. It’s a really nice leather coat: four buttons, reaches right to the balls of my hands, had exactly the right amount of pockets, and is, all in all, a perfect coat. On the outside. The issue with it is we bought it at a place in New York called “Filene’s Basement.” If you’re unfamiliar with the place, it was this giant discount store where clothes deemed unacceptable for retail sale were sold at discount prices. What determines a garment’s level of acceptability was not noted on the item itself. That was left for you to discover. I bought clothes there that never demonstrated any noticeable flaw at all. This coat, however, manifested its problems quickly. Within the first winter, two of the buttons came off. In Memphis, that is not a huge disqualifier for a coat. Buttons are rarely needed during the cold months. Not long after, the bottoms of the outside pockets began to fray away, causing my keys and breath spray to slip down into the lining, causing odd fishing expeditions that must’ve made me look like I was suffering from some brain fever. Soon enough, it wasn’t necessary to go into the lining through the holes in the pockets because the lining began to split and shred in an alarming manner. Each time I put an arm in a sleeve there was another ripping sound. My thumbs would get caught in long running tears causing them to widen even more. Still, I wouldn’t give up. I asked my wife, the one of us who can sew, to put the buttons back on and then started grousing about the lining of “my favorite coat” until she agreed to take a shot at repairing the lining. Once turned inside out, the coat showed far worse symptoms than I had imagined. A trauma surgeon would’ve called it right then. But she went to work, on several different occasions. For a time there was hope, but now the pockets are already shot and the lining is coming apart like a fourteen-year old girl listening to Adele. But I love Frankencoat, and there’s a good chance you’ll see me wearing it. Don’t judge me and I won’t judge your concert tees. March 2016
•
RSVP
• 57
PAST RSV WWII: L E ove
ndures
1944 T
his handsome officer is the late Memphian Charles Pittman Cobb, who at the time this photo was made, had been recently commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. He gave the photo to his future bride, Ruth Marie Moore, also of Memphis, who cherished the keepsake while he was away during World War II. The two were married in 1948. 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.
58 •
RSVP
• March 2016