M ARCH 2017
Page Cirque Memphi Mid-Winter Robbins Staxtacular du Ball Gala CMOM
546 N. Collierville-Arlington Road
24495 Hwy 76
Unincorporated, TN 38017
Somerville, TN 38068
Just Reduced! Get away from it all and come home to this beautiful custom-built modern day farm house, nestled on 26 rolling acres and located only minutes outside of Collierville. The stunning 4 bedroom, 3 full and 2 half baths home has a media room and separate oversized bonus room over the 3 car garage. You’ll feel like you’re on a constant vacation enjoying the custom designed pool while gazing over the 26 acre farm. This equestrian enthusiast’s dream also boasts a separate apartment attached to the barn that includes 1 bedroom with bath, living room, kitchen and laundry room. The horse barn has 9 fully equipped stalls and opens up to the irrigated riding arena. For an exclusive view of this estate visit www.546ColliervilleArlington.com
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!”
$1,325,000
Cathy Banks
$995,000
Angie Ware
Bill Maury
901.598.0447 901.606.2374 ware@collins-maury.com banks@collins-maury.com
901.751.4311 maury@collins-maury.com
Cathy Banks 901.606.2374
Jeanne Billings 901.493.0100
Marina Brinkley 901.619.4023
Laura Clark 901.483.2117
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Jessica Collier 901.832.4294
Cynthia Davis 901.574.2792
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Sally Isom 901.219.8882
Lexie Johnston 901.489.1604
Alie Jones 901.550.5235
Barbara McKee 901.277.2821
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Janey Outlan 901.487.3292
Milleigh Pearson 901.550.1517
Silvana Piadade 901.647.6661
Kendra Robson 901.610.1851
Kathleen Sampson 901.359.6800
Rejane Slocum 901.652.8798
Caitlin Soma 980.329.7700
Diane Stribling 901.831.1755
Sissy Vaughan 901.870.6227
Barbara Weir 901.412.7489
Collins-Maury.com
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5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
3276 Goodman Rd. Southaven,MS 38672 662.548.2000
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
Contents March 2017
Features
From the Editor • 8 Emily Adams Keplinger Get out and explore
Signature Memphis • 10 Mike Warr Making a difference in the lives of others
StreetSeen • 18 Talbert Fleming Spearheading a revival in South Memphis
StreetSeen • 22 Olga King Channeling creativity through jewelry design and painting
Events
RSVPhillippi • 49 The Drinking Ages Protocol through the decades
Antonio and Kimberly Taylor
Cirque du CMOM • 12 A Western Roundup lassoes support for Children's Museum of Memphis
Donna and Keith Renard
Memphis Moments • 20, 30, 31, 38, 40, 42, 43, 44, 46 & 47
Sharon and Kelly Truitt
Memphi MidWinter Ball • 24 A British Invasion at Memphis Country Club
Cover Photo
Metcalf and Madeleine Crump at Memphi Mid-Winter Ball Photo by Don Perry Table of Contents Photo by Krista Geyer
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Alise and Scott Davis
Page Robbins Winter Gala • 32 A benefit for adult daycare
Brandi and Deryl Gardner
Staxtacular • 36
Progressive party raises funds for Stax Music Academy
Volume XXII • Number III
March 2017 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor & Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Suzanne Thompson Cozza Robin Gallagher Dennis Phillippi Rebekah Yearout Art Director Krista Geyer Photographers Don Perry Nicole Robbins Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Kim Johnson RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to:
Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact:
Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax: (901) 276-7785 publisher@rsvpmagazine.com 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:
Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2017 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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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.
Kim Johnson
Account Executive Kim has worked in advertising for thirty years in the Memphis area, starting with The Memphis Business Journal, radio, television and now back to print. She loves meeting new friends as well as helping the old ones with their advertising needs. Going to movies, shopping, cooking and playing with her dog are among her favorite activities! RSVP feels like an extension of her family.
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
March
S
pring is just around the corner, and you can see the impact of the warmer weather not only on flora and fauna, but also on people. While redbuds and tulip poplars are quietly slipping into their showiest of seasons, people are also rousing from their hibernating habits and starting to venture outdoors more often. Shaking off the winter doldrums can be both a mental and a physical activity. With the completion of Big River Crossing and additional bike lanes crisscrossing the city, it is easier than ever to find a path to help you enjoy outdoor pursuits. The Memphis and Shelby County Bike Map can help you plan a route with over 60 miles of bike lanes, off-road trails and protected pathways. You can pick up a copy at local Memphis bicycle repair shops or any area Visitor Center. But just to get your gears going, here are a few ideas: The Shelby Farms Greenline is a 7-mile paved pedestrian/biking trail that connects Midtown (at Tillman Street) to Shelby Farms. And once you arrive at the eastern terminus, there are a variety of paved and unpaved trails to explore if you want to extend your ride. On the north side of town, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers a 5-mile intermediate trail. And Overton Park, another of Memphis’ prime green spaces, is located right in the heart of the city and provides walkers and bikers a shady 2.5 mile path and nearly 200 acres of public space. The Big River Crossing is the longest public pedestrian bridge that spans the Mississippi River. With its completion last October, you can now walk or bike across the river, from Downtown Memphis all the way to Main Street in West Memphis, Arkansas. For those hoping for an even longer haul, the Mississippi River Trail takes riders on a 32-mile segment that passes through Shelby County, including MeemanShelby Forest and Downtown Memphis. This route crosses into Arkansas as well. Additionally, this is a great time of year to get out and explore. Go find out what’s been happening around town by making treks through neighborhoods that have been undergoing revitalization efforts. Take an afternoon to explore Soulsville, check out the new businesses and eateries opening in Crosstown, and see what’s new in pedestrian-friendly areas like Broad Avenue, Cooper-Young, Highland Row near the University of Memphis, Overton Square and South Main. Physical recreation can help quell a sense of restlessness and clear out mental cobwebs. There’s so much to see and do—and this is one of our most comfortable seasons for being outdoors. Find out for yourself what it is that makes Memphis “The City of Good Abode.”
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Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
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Mike Warr
Chairman, Porter-Leath Early Childhood Foundation Your Lucky Charm: A smile Hometown: Jonesboro, Arkansas Favorite Place
to
Place You Go
Travel: Italy
to
Think: Spa/Hot Tub
Favorite Southern Idiom: Down to the lick log Favorite Song: “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd Best Advice You Ever Got: Do it right the first time Who Would Play You The Highlight
of
in a
Movie: Jack Nicholson
Your Day: Any victory large or small
Proudest Moment
of
Your Life: Sold all my restaurants
Your Best Quality: Getting things done quickly and correctly Your Most Annoying Habit: Excessive Assertiveness—Pushy! Best Memphis Hangout: Restaurant bars like Erling’s, The Half Shell and
River Oaks
Best Thing About Working
for a
Satisfaction
Nonprofit: Mission Focus and Job
First Car You Owned: 1958 Oldsmobile—cost $400 and had to jump start it twice a week
A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite Dinner: John Belushi
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Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Dining out in eclectic Memphis independent
restaurants
Something You’ll Never Live Down: Owning an $18,000 T-shirt as a result of a bad business decision involving a tractor trailer load of fried chicken--July 4, 1980.
One Goal You’d Still Like
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Accomplish: Complete Early Childhood
Photo by Steve Roberts
Education Rehabilitation Plan for Shelby County—Be chosen for the for the MacArthur $100 Million Dollar grant
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Cirque du CMOM
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Jerrold and Elin Irvin
Matt and Wendy VanCleve
Kaleb and Angie Brown
n the true spirit of the Wild West, costumed guests donned their best fancy duds, Stetsons and boots to attend “Saddle Up! Deep in the Heart of Memphis.” The annual Cirque du CMOM party was a fundraiser for the Children’s Museum of Memphis. Chairmen for this year’s event were Emily Banks and Carol Stout, and IBERIABANK was back in the saddle as title sponsor. Even though the weather was rainy and cold, the crowd attending the gala was heating things up with The Mustache Band, a 90s Country Party Band. The group crooned hit after hit, while party-goers did their boot-scooting best to kick up their heels. It was clear that the crowd loved the western theme. Folks were comfortable “getting their cowboy on” as they made their way through the museum to sidle up to watering holes sponsored by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Tennessee, 10 full service bars which included 2 bars that featured a myriad of spirits and Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water and 2 Fireball shot bars. Guests were offered a photo op by Cathy Wood, owner of Phancy Photo Booth. With all of her cowboy-themed props, cutout mustaches on a stick and a variety of comical signs, Wood was good for her word to “make the party Phun.” Another source of entertainment came from singing duo Grant Vogelfanger and Marla Morris, who stationed themselves in chairs on a platform high above the crowd as they sang country cover songs. At the King Ranch, the VIP See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Jamie and Cory McCabe
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A Wild West Roundup
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room for IBERIABANK guests, Michel Leny of Cafe Society served up baconwrapped shrimp with a horseradish sauce and teriyaki-marinated beef tenderloin kabobs. Elsewhere in the museum, Hog Wild offered pulled pork sliders and Lyfe Kitchen plated chicken tostadas served with a spicy libation called a Smoky Rita. Taziki’s served spicy pimento cheese, as well as pasta, and Babalu dished up barbecue and grits. Itta Beena offered bitesized cucumber BLT’s and Char provided their signature pork rinds. VIP Lounge sponsor White Door Events provided all the western decorations, with interior designer Elizabeth Malmo taking the reins as Decorations Chairman, along with Elizabeth Hutton. VIP Lounge food was provided by SDC Catering and Tin Roof. Gill Properties was the presenting sponsor of the ride-em-if-you-dare mechanical bull. Kendra Scott was on hand to add to the festivities with a Mystery Jewelry Pull. For $50 donations, guests could select mystery boxes containing earrings, necklaces or bracelets that were valued between $50 and $195. As part of their community support, Kendra Scott contributed 100 percent of its proceeds from the evening to CMOM. Richard C. Hackett, chief executive officer of the Children’s Museum of Memphis, said, ”We thank our team of approximately 150 volunteers who helped with this year’s fundraiser. Proceeds from the event will support the educational programs and exhibits at The Children’s Museum of Memphis.” Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Nicole Robbins
Drs. Henry and Kavita Dalsanja with Amber and D.J. McCabe
Toni and Larry Bray
Rob Hatchett and Samantha Gould
Paul and Jamila Young
Marla Morris and Grant Vogelfanger
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Elizabeth Smithers, Michael Schmitt and Jutta Schneider
Ann Marie Heaslett, Michael Abernathy and Karli Province
Helene Harris and Virginia Couch
Chandler May and Alicia Casias
Liz Hutton, Angie Smith, Lexis Harron, Kyle Hunter and Ross Larson
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Jon Destaphis and Eli Ellis
Krista and Phil Tadlock
Grace Skertich and Mary Maddox
Tim and Marta Mitchell with Glenn and Autumn Goerke
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Talbert Fleming
A Recipe for Neighborhood Revitalization Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
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• StreetSeen
rowing up in South Memphis left its mark on Talbert Fleming — so much so that it stirred a passion in him to give back to not only his hometown, but specifically to his former neighborhood. In the same block of Bullington Avenue where he grew up, Talbert has been quietly, but steadily, spearheading a revival.
“After leaving Memphis for college, then joining the military, I moved around from Seattle to Atlanta,” recalled Talbert. “I studied mechanical engineering and marketing, and worked in both fields for large corporations like IBM, Digital and Kohler. Through my position with La Face Records in Atlanta, I discovered that what I really enjoyed was brining others into the spotlight.” When La Face was purchased by Arista Records, Talbert saw the opportunity to return home and put his experience into practice. He started a travel agency with an emphasis on entertainment, designing music festivals both in the states and internationally. “As my success grew, I got together with my two brothers, Sheldon and Reginald, and my mother, Darlene West, and decided that the best way to ‘give back’ was to help my former community re-emerge and thrive,” said Talbert. “We decided to open a small restaurant with locally grown food, cooked by my family, that could help feed the people in the Bullington Avenue area. Many of the neighbors are now elderly, with limited transportation and abilities to cook for themselves. We wanted to provide good, healthy meals at prices they could afford, and make it accessible.” The first year Talbert said he and his family focused on remodeling a house they were given by family friend who was supporting their efforts to revitalize the neighborhood. They named their restaurant Jim & Samella’s after Talbert’s maternal grandparents. “We let our neighbors know that we were here for them and began sourcing most of our food from the South Memphis Farmers Market, located
just down the street from our restaurant,” said Talbert. “Our second year we worked on developing our plans, in terms of how to best serve our community. By the third year we had all the working parts in place and were spreading our wings. And, now in our fourth year, we feel like we have established our place in South Memphis.” Since founding Jim &Samella’s at 841 Bullington in the heart of Soulsville, in July 2013, Talbert and his family have received community support from outside of their neighborhood as well. “Memphis City Beautiful provided us with a Community Mini-Grant, then IKEA donated furnishings and accessories to help tie it all together,” said Talbert. “Additionally, The EDGE gave us a $25,000 forgivable grant that we used to remodeling the kitchen, put in new indoor and outdoor lighting, and better develop our landscaping.” As their plans grew, so did the restaurant. It has become a gathering spot for neighbors. That development has served as a stimulus for the neighborhood’s revitalization. “As neighbors get to know each other again, they’ve started feeling a renewed sense of community pride,” explained Talbert. “And as we continue to evaluate how we can best serve them, we’re expanding our operation in a number of ways.” Plans for the future include launching a Penny Drive to encourage neighbors to collectively save money to help rebuild their neighborhood. And the restaurant is going to cultivate land to grow vegetables that area residents can come pick for free. “We’re also developing recipes for the foods we plan to grow to encourage people to eat ‘heart healthy’ meals,” added Talbert.
By mid-April, Talbert and his family want to provide a different kind of nourishment — food for the soul. “We’re striving to bring culture by opening an open-air amphitheater adjacent to the restaurant,” said Talbert. “We want to give local musicians a new venue for their own exposure, while bringing some local color back to the neighborhood. Planned events will also include outdoor art shows for visual artists.” Capping off their revitalization efforts, Talbert and his supporters are planning to establish a Cherry Blossom Festival. “We want to literally bring a bright spot to our area and give people something else to be proud of,” said Talbert. “We want to see our area thrive and we hope to do that by attracting a younger generation who put their roots down here, too. We hope they will purchase blighted properties and rehab them for their own use. The long-term goal is to keep this community alive, and not have it die out with the remaining elderly people who live here now.” Just a few weeks ago, Talbert learned that the purpose of his establishment had come full circle. “An 88 year-old man came by for a visit and brought his family to see the house,” said Talbert. “He told how his family was too poor to go to the hospital for their children to be born, and yet, while he was growing up here, his mother would cook to help feed the neighbors. It is somewhat miraculous that this house, re-established as Jim & Samella’s, is now continuing that tradition of community service.” For more information about Jim & Samella’s, check out their page at facebook.com/jimandsamellas
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Memphis Moment
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Incognito Art Auction and Gala Supporting Memphis Botanic Garden
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he Incognito Art Auction and Gala was held at Memphis Botanic Garden. This evening of food and fun is an annual fundraiser for the wonderful programs of art, education and horticulture put on by Memphis Botanic Garden throughout the year. Admission included two drink tickets and access to a wide assortment of fine wines and beers, as well as delicious hors d’oeuvres from Stone Soup Cafe’, Fratelli’s, and Another Roadside Attraction. Gibson’s Donuts provided a mouth-watering donut bar including hot coffee along with red velvet and blueberry delights. The sold-out event featured over 100 artists who were wearing masks so as not to be recognized. Guests bid on art works that struck their fancy without knowing the name of the artists who created their selections. Special guest host was Kacky Walton of WKNO’s “Checking On The Arts.” This year’s Incognito Art Auction was presented by Suntrust Bank. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Gay Johnston and Eileen Cashbaugh
Marty and Bob Parker
Bob and Katherine Lussier
Cynthia and Malcolm Pratt
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Cyndy Grivich Tucker and Susie Jabbour with Bayard and Lisa Snowden
Diane and Walt Chambliss
Barton Lynch and Danette Lawrie
Connie Lampen and Destiny Barfield
March 2017
Judy Harber and Janie Fulmer
Mireya Mejia and Connie Chavez
Kathy Sorrels and Mike Meyer
Chris Miller and Shelby Trevathan
Olga Kin g The Evolution of an Artist Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
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lga King’s artistic sensibilities surfaced when she was a school girl in Moscow, Russia. She participated in an after-school art program for two years and said that she always loved to paint.
“I’ve known I have the heart of an artist,” said Olga. “I always painted, and even won citywide school competitions in Moscow.” But as she grew up, Olga shelved her art because at the time, the economy was not very encouraging. Instead, she focused her knack for attention to detail in another direction—engineering. She learned the skill of making chips for microelectronics. However, again the economy directed her vocation and she found herself working as a loan officer for European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), analyzing potential funding and approving loans for small businesses. “I was responsible for a $3 million portfolio,” recalled Olga. “It wasn’t until I came to the United States that I returned to my art. However, it wasn’t a deliberate path, but more of one out of necessity. When something on a piece of my
own jewelry broke, I repaired it. My creativity resurfaced as I found I could add different stones and exchange clasps to get a different look. That’s how it all started. It wasn’t a plan, but more of an evolution.” In Olga’s beginning as a jewelry designer, she brought amber beads from Russia, selling them and ultimately adding different stones to her necklaces. It was when she starting working with freshwater pearls that she found her passion. The exotic, natural-colored stones, ranging in shades of white to ivory and champagne as well as shades of gray and black, became the basis of her signature line. Using sterling and gold-filled wire components, she handcrafts necklaces, bracelets and earrings in unique, one-of-a-kind designs. Olga said, “To promote my jewelry, I wore my creations and made personal calls on retailers to see if they would carry my line.” With a school-age son, Olga did not want the travel associated with building a regional wholesale trade. Instead, she says she prefers to show locally, and has a large showcase filled with over 100 pieces of her collection at Palladio. She has cultivated a reputation for custom-designed jewelry, including bridal and bridesmaid jewelry
• StreetSeen
and treasured keepsakes. After setting up shop, she found she had extra time on her hands and saw the opportunity to return to her first love—painting. “Art is what I love, what I always wanted to do,” said Olga. “I began with pencil and watercolors, then acrylics, and worked my way to mixed media.” In an airy study of line and shape, Olga’s abstract art is very minimalistic. Female forms and floral still lives are rendered in graphite with a pop of color. “My studies are captured quickly,” explained Olga. “Other paintings evolve as layers of colors are applied. Often I’m inspired by an expression of a face. I don’t try to draw exactly what I see. Instead, my art is more emotional. I try give the impression of a look.” Now Olga spends her days working and painting. Her jewelry is her main business, but she is also exhibiting her art in area galleries, like the Annesdale Gallery and Crosstown Arts. To see more of Olga’s work, follow her on Instagram at @olgavking. For more information, send an email to olga@olgaking.com.
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Memphi Mid-Winter Ball
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Memphi Mid-Winter Ball
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Ricky and Catherine Harris
Kelly Jo and Mitch Graves
The British Invasion
he Mystic Society of the Memphi held its Mid-Winter Ball at Memphis Country Club. A string quartet from Memphis Symphony Orchestra played as guests were greeted in a reception line by Memphi’s host couples. The British Invasion was the 2017 theme, a hint of which was evident to guests before they entered the club, as two gentlemen attired as Queen’s Foot Guards, complete with tall, black bearskin hats, stood outside the front doors and stoically opened them. The ballroom was swathed in red, white and blue chiffon, which was draped from the center of the room to its four corners, completely covering the ceiling. General chairpersons Steve and Pam Guinn chose the theme, which was executed to perfection from the club’s décor to the featured band, “Liverpool, a Beatles Tribute Band.” “Memphis Country Club has been transformed into something spectacular,” said Steve Guinn during his opening comments as he thanked the decorating committee. Memphi members and 2017 King of Carnival Edward Dobbs circulated among guests before the presentation of royalty began, wearing tuxedos accented with signature green sashes. Green satin ribbons marked an aisle in the center of the ballroom, which was lined with chairs to give the families of Memphi royalty front row seats at the presentation ceremony. The identity See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
of the duchesses was held in secret until their presentation at the Mid-Winter Ball. The Queen of Memphi and the Ouro, or king, will be presented at the Crown and Sceptre Ball, the most formal of all Carnival Memphis events, to be held in June. Before the presentation of the six duchesses, each escorted by her husband-duke, replicas of the gates of Buckingham Palace swung open. This year’s duchesses and their escorts are Melissa and Tim Adams, Kathryn and Jim Gilliland, Kelly Jo and Mitch Graves, Catherine and Ricky Harris, Joan and Mike Heflin, and Anneliese and Will Watts. Each duchess, dressed in a plum-colored sleeveless gown with a rhinestonetrimmed empire waist, entered the room on the arm of her duke, and they danced down the center of the ballroom to a Beatles tune. At the end of the ballroom, each duchess stepped onto a platform, where she twirled and curtsied, before dancing back to the front of the room. After the presentation, guests took their seats for dinner. The duchesses and dukes were seated on a dais at the center of the dining room, where red velvet curtains served as a backdrop. Dinner consisted of lobster bisque, followed by an entrée of braised beef short ribs served with horseradish mashed potatoes, along with roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy leeks. A dessert of pear crème brûlée with hazelnut biscotti finished the meal.
Lisa and Hugh Mallory
Nancy and Jim Brooks
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Joanie and Michael Lightman
Story by Suzanne Thompson Cozza Photos by Don Perry
Mimi and Jim Taylor
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Mike and Joan Heflin
Honey and Rudi Scheidt with Ceil Walker
March 2017
Cindy and Edward Dobbs
March
Will and Anneliese Watts
Susan and Bobby Solberg
Donna and Mike McManus
Al and Jan Lyons
Lida and Walter Bross
Andrew and Ashley Shipman with Laura and Joey Russell
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Cecilia Walker and Mike Templeton
Peggy and L.R. Jalenak
Jana and Andy Lamanna
Stephen and Vickie Cruzen
Ed Galfsky and Donna Melton with Myra and Anthony Clark
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Memphi Mid-Winter Ball
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Memphis Wine +Food Series Celebrating our 25th anniversary, the Memphis Wine + Food Series proudly continues our tradition of bringing together award-winning chefs and prominent vintners for a series of fundraising events that directly impact our museum’s ability to bring art education to some of the most underserved in our community.
March 31 Brooks Uncorked
Corey and Michelle Epps with Micah and Ruthie Layman
Our Series kicks off with this Disco BALL, wine and food tasting at the Brooks! General Admission $100 before March 20, $125 thereafter.
May 19 Grand Artisans’ Dinner This exclusive and intimate dinner will be held at the historic Hunt-Phelan mansion. $800 per person. Complimentary admission to the Grand Auction is included.
Rebekah and Rusty Shappley
Melissa and Timothy Adams
WINEMAKERS: Scarpetta Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson and Bobby Stuckey, Master Sommelier Whetstone Jamey Whetstone | Rudius Jeff Ames CHEFS: Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman with Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson and Ryan Prewitt
May 20 The Grand Auction Don’t miss this high-energy live auction under the tent on the museum’s plaza. Raise your paddle and raise a glass to the event that just gets better with age!
Ginger Collier, Vicki McCullough and Chris Brubaker
$150 per person / $2000 reserved table for 12.
memphiswine.org/tickets Memphis Brooks Museum of Art in Overton Park Steve and Pam Guinn
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Mike and Martha Hess
March
Natalie and Matt Swoboda
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Jim and Kathryn Gilliland
Marcus and Mary Ann Hodges with Barbara and Joe Walker
Anne Piper and Carroll White
Ben and Beth Buffington
Pam Montesi, Janette Krauch and Kim Pitts
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Memphis Moment
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Urban Arts Commission Celebrating its 20th Anniversary
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undreds of supporters of the Memphis Urban Art Commission gathered at the Medicine Factory at 85 Virginia Avenue West in downtown’s toney South Main Arts District for a fundraiser to mark the commission’s 20th anniversary. Guests mingled to the sounds of DJ Alex Turley while enjoying champagne, premium liquors, a huge selection of fine wines, and ice cold PBR. Food for the occasion was provided by Brown Burch, Second Line, Bounty on Broad, and Burning River Catering, and was truly fitting for a gathering of discerning art lovers. Partygoers enjoyed such culinary delights as Fois Gras Pannacotta, oysters on the half shell with marinated mussels, Crawfish Salad, Flounder Ceviche, Pork Belly Bites with pate and skewers of white anchovy and olives served alongside cups of chicken and sausage gumbo on a fluffy bed of rice Sponsors included Anna Wunderlich Consulting, Phillip Ashley Chocolates, Looney Ricks Kiss, and Loaded For Bear. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Bill and Jessica Ganus
Mark Adams and Gina Prater
Shawn Massey and Todd Richardson
Anna Wunderlich and Catherine Erb
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Angie and Jim Lenschau
Ritchie Smith and Chip Pankey
Susan Maakestad and Joel Parsons
March 2017
Brit McDaniel and Lauren Carlson
Emily Halpern and Ben Stanley
Luis and Lisa Toro
Suzanne Carlson and Rachel Knox
Dr. Meredith Davis and Mersadies Burch
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Memphis Moments
Ennead Coronation A Celtic Garden Party
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Barbara Patronis and DeVoe Burford
he Ennead coronation kicked off this year’s Carnival Memphis events as members and guests assembled at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis for the 27th coronation of the krewe’s king and queen. The scene was set for a Celtic Garden Party, a theme which paid tribute to the heritage of this year’s royalty. Ascending to their respective thrones were Queen Dottie Crihfield and King Charles Humphreys. Their royal court included Duchesses Sally Gentry, Connie Spencer and Teresa Turan, each attired in emerald green satin strapless gowns featuring a fanshaped bodice which resembled tulip petals, and Dukes Jim Sharpe, Ed Wallace and Don Davis. Joining them was Richard Raichelson, chairman of Ennead. Bernie Krock served as Flagman and Jerry Michie and Randy West were the queen’s guards. Piper J. Stephen Sanders announced the royal procession and everyone was invited to participate in supporting Carnival’s Krewes for Kids endeavors. Then as flecks of emerald green light enveloped the room, partygoers began to dance the night away to tunes performed by Even Odds. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Stephanie and John Koshak
Will Taylor and Loghan Smith
Ken Hall and Tiffany Brinhall
Dottie Crihfield and Charles Humphreys
Italian Winterfest That's Amore
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Louis Vescovo, Mayor Jim Strickland and Steve Vescovo
pproximately 800 guests attended the 7th annual Italian Winterfest at the Racquet Club of Memphis. The event featured fare from 15 Memphis restaurants and included music performed by Tony Barrasso and the DJ expertise of Michael Spano. Sponsored by First Tennessee, the event benefitted the Catholic Education Scholarship Fund and Ave Maria Home, a long-term care community. The event raised “a little over $42,000,” said Lisa Bell, Ave Maria’s Director of Advancement. Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland was the 2017 Honored Guest of Winterfest and the Most Reverend J. Terry Steib, S.V.D., Diocese of Memphis Bishop Emeritus was recognized with the Outstanding Service Award. In accepting their awards Strickland said, “I believe the best days are ahead,” and Bishop Steib brought smiles as he led guests in his well-known saying, “God is good all the time.” Story and Photos by Robin Gallaher Branch
John Bobango, Brother Joel McGraw and Lisa Bobango
Drew Pera and Natalie Chamoun
Bishop Martin D. Holley and Bishop J. Terry Steib
Delaine Luster, Zachary Street, Bonnie Barrasso, Zack Street, Wesley Street and Angie Street
March 2017
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Page Robbins Winter Gala
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March
Page Robbins Winter Gala
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James and Mary Nelson
Sophie Samuels and Alex Petraglia
Ann Dandridge and Lester Brown
he Page Robbins Breakfast At Tiffany’s Winter Gala was held in the stately grand ballroom of the Peabody Hotel. The annual fundraiser, which was attended by more than 400 guests, supported the ongoing work of the Page Robbins Adult Daycare Center in Collierville. Page Robbins began in 1995 as an outgrowth from the work of a group of compassionate people in the Collierville area who recognized a significant need in their community in caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Dress for the event was black tie optional, but many partygoers showed up dressed as their favorite Breakfast at Tiffany’s characters. Guests were greeted at the entrance to the ball by volunteers seated in front of a large cardboard replica of the New York City skyline constructed and painted by the talented artists among Page Robbins’ clients. Available for purchase were beautiful hand painted wine glasses also crafted by clients. For a donation of $50, guests could buy a wine glass that came with unlimited refills. With the cocktail hour underway, plenty of mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres were on hand like Tenderloin Rossini Bites with wild mushroom in puff pastry, along with marinated artichoke bites and boursin cheese in bread crumbs, all created by the Peabody’s master chefs. As guests mingled, they perused the dozens of tables in the silent auction, bidding on items from Babalu,
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Café Piazza, Folk’s Folly, James Gattas Jewelrers, The Dive Shop, and Theatre Memphis. On display were jewelry and accessories, fine wines, bourbons and rums, framed artwork, designer handbags, celebrity cookbooks, and Breakfast At Tiffany’s memorabilia. At 8 p.m. guests were seated at elegantly appointed tables in the grand ballroom and formally greeted by Gala Chairs Dodd and Carole Williams. Father Jeff Marx, Rector at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, was present for the Invocation. Dinner was a delicious three course affair staring with Tiffany’s BLT salad of butter lettuce, roasted tomatoes, with sourdough and pork belly croutons topped with buttermilk ranch dressing. Next came filet mignon and grilled prawns, a soft poached egg over white cheddar grit cakes and green tomato chow-chow. Dessert was appropriately decadent, and featured passion fruit opera, almond cocoa nib sponge, passionfruit buttercream, and a white chocolate dome with a hazelnut cremeux center and chocolate crunch. A live auction was held during dinner by Terri Walker of Walker Auctions. Winning bids took home treasures including a peridot and diamond necklace from James Middleton Jewelers, a $1200 antique English platter circa early 1800’s, a one-week stay at a Cape Cod vacation home, and an afternoon of flying in a private plane. After dinner, guests enjoyed a photo booth, and danced until midnight to the sounds of The Soul Shockers.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Emily Hill and Austin Bullock
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“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
March 2017
Barbara and Tim Lohn with Peyton Halle
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Mike Worsham and Debbie Morrison
Bill and Lisa Hogue
Emily and Tom Love
Emily Pilkinton and Kerry Wilson
AS SEEN IN
THE SCOUT GUIDE M E M P H I S, T N
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March 2017
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Page Robbins Winter Gala
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March
Leanne and Darian Chasteen with Sandra and Roger Lewis
Don and Cathy Helms with Kent and Kay McKee
George and Cari Baird
Amy and Aaron Chestnut
Sarah Villane with Krista and Josh Robinson
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March 2017
Chris and Jaime Deal
Matt and Aimee Gegg
Steve and Anita Brunson
Ramona Rork, Ed Farler and Jill Dyles
Gild the Lily
5101 Sanderlin, Suite 112 | Memphis, TN 38117 901.682.8277 Since 1993
ROUTE 66
WILLY WONKA
March 10 – 2:30 & 8 p.m.
GUY BAVLI
Friday to Sunday March 23, 24, 25 – 7 p.m. March 26 – 2:30 p.m.
Feel good 1950’s musical. KING OF THE ROAD – FUN, FUN, FUN Get Your Kicks on ROUTE 66.
April 15 – 8 p.m. “Master of the Mind”
Classic musical tale of Charlie & the Chocolate Factory! – GREAT FAMILY FUN –
– WE’LL MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE – Let BPACC host your Reception – Meeting – Workshop – Celebration in our theater or one of our unique spaces.
Ti c k e t s & I n f o B PA C C . o rg o r 9 0 1 . 3 8 5 . 6 4 4 0
Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center March 2017
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Staxtacular
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March
Staxtacular
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Mary Austin and Scott Smith
Mark and Kim Ward
Lynsey Kamine and Roy Wells
he Soulsville Foundation was joined by Grizzlies guard/forward Vince Carter and the Memphis Grizzlies in hosting the 13th annual Staxtacular. The event was presented by SunTrust at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and served as the largest fundraiser of the year for the Stax Music Academy (SMA). This year’s event was presented as a progressive party, with attendees treated to complimentary parking as they started their evening at the Soulsville Charter School’s AutoZone Get in the Zone Gymnasium. There guests had the opportunity to mix and mingle with Carter and other members of the Memphis Grizzlies. Musical entertainment was provided by students of the Stax Music Academy. For next stop, the party proceeded to the adjacent building housing the Stax Music Academy for food and cocktails. Also, guests tried their skill at vintage video games and shot hoops with equipment games from Broad Avenue’s Rec Room. And, party-goers took to the dance floor to enjoy the musical entertainment provided by the Stax Music Academy Alumni Band (Stax Academy graduates.) The final party destination was the Stax Museum for more food and cocktails, a silent mobile-bid auction, dancing, and live music by the new Stax Records/Concord Music Group artists Southern Avenue. “Southern Avenue is the first Memphis band signed to the new Stax Records/Concord Music Group label,” said Tim Sampson, communications director for the Soulsville Foundation. “The band’s keyboardist, Jeremy ‘Mr. 88’ Powell, was the first former Stax Music Academy student See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Gerald and Sha Fanion
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Fundraising is Music to Their Ears signed to Stax Records. It felt like we were making history again, much in the way that the original Stax Records did, by featuring special hometown talent from Memphis.” Powell is considered by many to be one of the best keyboardists playing today. “Stax taught me discipline,” Powell says. “I started playing trumpet just one year before joining the Stax Music Academy. That after-school program helped me to develop my passion and ear for music. While learning theory and different compositions on the trumpet at Stax, I taught myself to do the same on the keyboard at home.” Guests circulated among tables to place their bids on silent items such as sports memorabilia, music-related items, jewelry, original art and vacations. One of the most popular items featured cooking lessons with a Sousville Charter School student who has worked at Chez Philippe, Capriccio Grill and Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, and is now employed by Catherine and Mary’s. The item garnering the highest bid was a privately-chartered airplane trip. Over the years, Staxtacular has raised more than $1 million for the Stax Music Academy. “All proceeds from Staxtacular 2017 benefit the Stax Music Academy, which inspires young people and enhances their academic, cognitive, performance, and leadership skills by utilizing music with an intense focus on the rich legacy and tradition of Stax Records,” explained Sampson. “Almost all of our SMA students attend via scholarships provided by the Soulsville Foundation through fundraising efforts such as Staxtacular.” Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Nicole Robbins
Josh Segovia, Lori Shelton, Chris Reid and Jordan Michael
March 2017
Molly and Jason Wexler
Sally Summers and John Nichols
Madison and Merry Moore
Qualice and Daryll Seymour
March
Trey Carter and M.P. Carter
Adam Hargrove and Dave Hash
Jeff and Jen Kollath
Suzana and Michael Lightman Jr.
Emily and Joel Thomas
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Anna Ruhl and Virginia Boyd
Kelly and Suzanne Lomax
Jordan and Alexis Myers
Deidra Scott and Scott House
Somer Smith and Jack Replinger
Hazel Sharpe and John Watts
March 2017
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Memphis Moment
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March
Literacy is Key Luncheon Book & Author Event
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he Memphis Alumnae Association of Kappa Kappa Gamma (KKG) Fraternity hosted its seventh annual “Literacy is Key: A Book & Author Event” at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis. Approximately 450 guests attended the event, which included a luncheon followed by presentations by featured authors Elin Hilderbrand, Karen White and Deborah Wiles. Burke’s Book Store partnered with KKG for book sales and after the luncheon, attendees had the opportunity to meet the authors as they signed copies of their works. Proceeds from this event will benefit literacy-oriented agencies including First Book Mid-South, a nonprofit organization that provides children from low-income families with their first new books. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Patti Russell, Jackie Mitchell and Connie Mitchell
Summer Godman, Heather Grosvenor and Hillery Efkeman
Elaine Hare, Fini Koerner, Maggie Cobb Boyd, Sarah Black and Jan Cornaghie
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March 2017
Margo Germany and Karen White
Maria Folk, Charlotte Bray and Margaret Ledbetter
Kim Weiss and Madelyn Gray
Cheryl Mesler and Eileen Adams
Ellen Wells, Debbie Pryor and Elizabeth Martin
Judy McCommon and Teresa Boone
Janet Phifer, Samantha Towne and Beth Carter
Susan Yount, Leigh Harwell and Beth Dowdie
krocmemphis.org March 2017
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Memphis Moment
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March
Les Passees Cabaret Ball “Puttin’ on the Ritz”
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he Les Passees Cabaret Ball, in its 96th year, was “Puttin’ on the Ritz” at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Adam Heart Memphis tickled the ivories, as guests enjoyed appetizers and mingled while browsing silent auction items. Inside Hardin Hall, tables were draped in black and white linen, with towering black vases filled with white Calla Lilies as centerpieces. Incoming president of the club, Judy Ashby, was introduced by outgoing president Joyce Carter, who made welcoming comments. “We’re going back to the roaring 20s, the era of our founders,” she said. “Though things have changed dramatically for women since then, the mission of Les Passees has not.” Les Passees is the city’s oldest women’s charity, with the mission to enhance the lives of children and families in the Mid-South. Part of the annual tradition at the Cabaret Ball is the introduction of “Living Ads,” accomplished young women who are sponsored by companies. Each young lady and her escort was preceded by a page, dressed for the theme, who also had an escort. The Living Ads stepped to the center of the ballroom, carrying armfuls of Calla Lilies. Charlotte Livesay represented FedEx, Emily Garrison represented the Henry Turley Foundation, Kenedee Cummings represented Bank Tennessee and Gill Properties, Jeanne Tutor represented James Middleton Jewelers, and Mary Addison Wadsworth represented Travelennium.
Anna Grace King, Eli Whittington, Justine Ettingoff and Lawton Curry
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza Jeanne and Tommy Childress with Deborah and Hugh McVeigh
Isaac Whittington and Georgia Sink
Annie Taylor and Leslie Darr
Anca Marra and Kathy DeFreece
Sam and Linda Aljundi
David and Merri Curry
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March 2017
Noel and Maxine Oliver
Mary Addison Wadsworth, Jeanne Tutor and Charlotte Livesay
Kenedee Cummings and Robert Cummings
Craig and Karyn Whittington
Joe Brandenburg and Judy Looney
Suzanne Allen and Becky Boone
Memphis Moments
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Soup Sunday Supporting Youth Villages
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early 50 Mid-South restaurants and over 2500 patrons turned out for the 28th annual Youth Villages Soup Sunday at the FedEx Forum. In addition to signature soups, restaurants also served up specialty items including appetizers, breads, and desserts — all as a benefit for Youth Villages Mentoring Program. The Memphis Doctors Dance Band entertained the crowd and a Kid Zone offered activities to keep the younger set engaged. A VIP Souper Party on the Pinnacle Level offered additional speciality items and adult beverages. In a People’s Choice contest, Babalu Tacos and Tapas’ Chicken Tortilla Soup won top bragging rights for Best Soup, while Hope Church Memphis won Best Specialty Item for their Pimento Cheese with Crackers, Nothing Bundt Cake garnered Best Dessert with their assorted Bundtinis and the Souper Spirit Award went to A Moveable Feast & HOG WILD Catering Companies for their Chicken and Waffle Fritter with North Memphis White Sauce.
McKinley Farese, Samantha Hyneman, Callie Compton and Makenzie Craig
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Anette Poole, Barbara Layman, Pat Massengill and Ann Wieties
Ben Rader and Victoria Dove
Bob Loeb, Clementine Taylor and Mary Loeb
Janice Bell and Eric Mayer
Tim and Kristie Goldsmith with Melanie Rutland and Jeff Goldsmith
Ptah Coronation A Royal Presentation
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he Grand Krewe of Ptah held its Coronation Ball at The Great Hall in Germantown. Tables with centerpieces of red roses were strewn with diamond-shaped crystals. A large, glistening crystal chandelier dangled above the thrones where the King, Ken Zimmerman, and Queen, Karen Davis, sat after the court was presented. Queen Karen chose “Queen of Diamonds and Soul” as the 2017 Ptah theme. “My grandmother started my love of fine jewelry when I was a child,” she said. They were flanked by their princesses, Selina Chan Smith, Jackie Zimmerman, Julie Eaves and Mary Alice Royko. A buffet of light appetizers was available throughout the evening, and The Dantones played while the group danced until midnight.
Sara Van Dyke, Marlon Foster, Judy Looney and Bill Ross
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Princesses Selina Chan Smith, Jackie Zimmerman, Julie Eaves and Mary Alice Royko
Karen Davis and Ken Zimmerman
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Chuck and Mary Stewart
March 2017
Nimmi and Surjit Kamra
William Taylor and Logan Smith with Annie Taylor and James and Keri Taylor
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Memphis Moment
Works of Heart Benefiting the Memphis Cild Advocacy Center
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Judge Bobby Carter, Vince Perryman and Judge Valerie Smith
owers of flames and a heart-shaped candelabra filled with glowing votives greeted guests as they entered the main gallery of the Memphis College of Art for the silver anniversary of Works of Heart. Art lovers and supporters came to bid on more than 100 heart-themed works of art. Joe Birch from WMC served as the evening’s emcee. Volunteers called Heart Hawkers wore red feather boas and encouraged the bidding while sharing facts about the participating artists. Winning bidders acquired unique works of art made by some of the best-known names in the region, such as Jimpsie Ayres, Brin and Dale Baucum, Valerie Berlin, Karen Capps, Tom Clifton, Maritza Davila, Pinkney Herbert, George Hunt, David Mah, John McIntire, Veda Reed, Murray Riss, John Robinette, Jon Sparks, Agnes Stark, Carroll Todd, and N. J. Woods. “For 25 years, Memphis-area artists have mobilized to help our community’s most vulnerable citizens,” explained Virginia Stallworth, Executive Director of the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. “All proceeds benefit the children served at the Memphis Child Advocacy Center.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Rhonda Jones and Lori Patton
June West, Carolyn Fly-Ginski and Annette Askew
Todd and Shanna France
Murray Riss and Virginia Stallworth
Charles Kistler and John Pruett
Kathy and Kelly Fish
Tom Clifton and Evan Mann
Robert and Nancy Williams
Gloria Dodds and John Robinette
Beth Flanagan and Joe Birch
Bunny and Stanton Thomas
March 2017
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Memphis Moment
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March
Annual AWA Awards Banquet Recognizing Women's Achievements in the Legal Profession
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he 37th Annual Association for Women Attorneys’ (AWA) Awards Banquet was held at The Tower Room. Mary Wolff was honored with The Marion Griffin-Frances Loring Award for outstanding achievement in the legal profession. It was the first time in the organization’s history the award has been given posthumously. Wolff’s long-time law partner Pat Ardis, of Wolff Ardis, P.C., gave the acceptance speech, which was full of endearing vignettes about Wolff and her dedication to helping people through her dedication to excellence in the practice of law. Francis M. Riley presented $10,000 in AWA scholarships, which were awarded to seven law school students: Karlyn Washington, Stephanie Berish, Kelly Hagy, Callie Tran, Holly Stanford, Ashley Finch and Liz Stagich. In addition to the $10,000 in scholarships, two $5,000 gifts were presented, one to the Women’s Foundation of Greater Memphis, and the other to First Tee of Memphis, a program that teaches golf to inner-city school students. Claudia Haltom, former judge magistrate at Juvenile Court and founder of the A Step Ahead Foundation, was the keynote speaker. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Paul Tauberville, Anne Fritz and Colby Morgan
Kevin Bruce and Shayla Purifoy
Amy Strickland and Keating Lowery
Kim Mullins, Judge Valerie Smith and Shari Myers
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Callie Tran, Hollly Stanford, Ashley Finch and Liz Stagich
March 2017
Gracie Gelfand and Caroline Gordon
Haavi Morreim and Justice Janice Holder
Diana Comes and Laura Deakins
Karyl Washington, Stephanie Berish and Kelly Hagy
Brittan Robinson, Maggie Cooper and Elizabeth Alrutz
Jean Dobbins, Jackie Miller and Belinda Simpson
Memphis Moments
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March
Whiskey, Wines and Chocolates An Exhilirating Pairing
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he “Whiskey, Wines and Chocolates” event at the Memphis Botanic Garden was a sweet, intoxicating evening benefiting the Gardens. Attendees were able to socialize in the gallery and Hardin Hall, where the band Objekt12 was performing. Chocolates by Phillip Ashley and complementing alcoholic drinks were offered, ranging from brut champagne to lime-flavored margaritas paired with sweet bites for each drink. Guests could purchase liquor at a cash bar and BeLeaf cigars had a variety of cigars for sale. The patio outside Hardin Hall was open for cigar smokers or those wishing to take in a beautiful view of the full moon that evening. Executive Director Michael Allen said around 340 people came to the third annual event. Magician Grayson Smith circled around the crowd showing off tricks. Grayson is also a volunteer magician at the VA and has been volunteering at the Botanic Garden, including their “Tuesdays on the Terrace” event, nine years. Story and Photos by Rebekah Yearout
Lindsay Peluso and Liz Sposato
Greg and Macal Brown
Shelley Baker and Colleen Palmertree
Sara Whitten and Alexandra McDaniel
Aparna and Chris Narayanan
Kai Williams and Roquita Williams
Luxor Coronation "San Francisco Nights"
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he Coronation Ball for the Grand Krewe of Luxor, held at The Esplanade, was a celebration of San Francisco. Queen Toni Parker chose the theme, “San Francisco Nights,” in honor of the city where she and her husband met in 1984. Tables were decorated in several different ‘Frisco-related motifs. On some tables, a ship’s helm, painted with the words “Fisherman’s Wharf,” topped centerpieces, the bases of which were fashioned from lobster crate material. Other centerpieces were crowned with Chinese lanterns, on bases adorned with fans. Hanging happy faces, with peace signs on the opposite side festooned with lights, were the focal point for other tables, a nod to Haight Ashbury. Following the presentation of the four duchesses and the queen, King Gerry Ward, known for his moves on the dance floor, entered with a flourish, dancing up and down the aisle. Following the presentation, Luxor guests were treated to a full breakfast buffet.
Wynn Sorsby, Chris Bean, Jana Kearney and Lynn Albano
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Susan Babina, Shelley Hood and Kevin Danish
Mike and Cathy Walsh
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Robert Bowen and Francine Klein
March 2017
Gerry Ward and Tony Parker
Donna Kobb, Aleesa Blum, Virginia LoPresti and Stephanie Koshak
March
• Memphis Moments
RaMet Coronation "Winter Wonderland"
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Pam Cain, Al Owings and Anita Howald
inter Wonderland was the theme of the Mystic Society of RaMet’s Coronation Ball, held at Memphis Botanic Garden. Throughout the ballroom there were images that brought to mind the wintery theme. Strings of iridescent beads dangled from centerpieces made of white paper flowers, creating the effect of ice dripping from snowballs. The buffet table of hors d’oeuvres was accented with a miniature winter castle. Dr. Donnie Owens served as emcee, introducing past RaMet queens, as well as visiting royalty from other krewes. This year’s four duchesses were presented, each wearing a royal blue gown with a white stole draped over her shoulders. A former military man, King Charlie Smithers made a grand entrance through an arch of swords. Not to be outdone, Queen Sara Van Dyke gave the crowd a special treat before she entered as a group of ballerinas from the Children’s Ballet Theater danced into the room to Vivaldi’s “Winter.” Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Judy Looney, Margaret Lawrence, Gara Toohey and Rose Gwaltney
Kathleen Heim, Sarah Brown, Joy Huff, Evie Fowler, Alyssa Lucero and Sophia Holland
Lisa Parr and Joyce Wright
Kim Leonard and Joseph Gordon
Bernie Krock and Dr. Donnie Owens
Sphinx Coronation "A Night at the Oscars"
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embers of Carnival Memphis and their guests were dressed to walk the red carpet at the Grand Krewe of Sphinx’s Coronation Ball, held at TPC Southwind. Themed “A Night at the Oscars,” movie memorabilia, including miniature Oscar statues and tiny golden Champagne glasses surrounded the centerpieces. Centerpieces were fashioned out of large vases, each containing tiny footlights that illuminated a blackand-white glossy of a former Academy Award-winning actor or actress. Crowning the vase was a large, 8 mm film roll with faux film dangling from it. Queen Kim Flynn talked about the parallelism between films and Carnival Memphis. “Films are mixed genres, like the many different groups in Carnival,” she said. “Documentaries can change lives, and Carnival changes lives by supporting children’s charities.” Amber Roettgen was honored with the 2017 James Crow Award for Outstanding Service to Carnival Memphis. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
John Vincent and Kim Flynn
Lynn Bishop and Linda Dever
Thomas J. Holmes and Chris Morledge
Laura Alexander-Dodds and Gloria Dodds
Chrissann and Jack Conway
Allyson James and Ken Hall
March 2017
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Crossword
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March
RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS 1 Resort offering 4 Bible song 9 Bikini top 12 Wuss 14 Sleep disorder 15 Colorado ski resort town 16 _______mater
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17 Lopes 18 Ancient South American native 19 Native of Athens or Atlanta 21 Topeka locale 23 Not later 24 Pigpen 25 On the ocean 28 O'Leary's drug of choice (abbr.) 31 Flair 34 Capital of Canada 36 South Korean auto maker 38 Pain unit 40 Glum 41 Type of chart 43 Mongolian desert 44 Abort 45 Nosh 46 Tillable 48 Spot 51 Sure! 53 Double-reed instrument 54 Lubricate 56 Also 58 Hiatus 61 Coffee stimulant 66 Great 67 Short person 69 Type of missile 70 Together 71 Juvenile stage of an insect's development 72 Give (up)
March 2017
73 24 hours 74 Cast out 75 Fox hole
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1 Festoon 2 Heap 3 Bullets 4 Deck 5 Spread out on the couch 6 Soon, poetically 7 Rent 8 Disguises 9 Prohibits 10 Costa ______ 11 Alack's partner 13 Standard or average 15 Old record material 20 Chew (on) 22 Dined 25 Repent 26 Wall supports 27 Hearing organ 29 Slide across the ice 30 Rotel is a popular one 32 Philippine dish with marinated chicken or pork 33 Dignified 34 Poem 35 Stage of life 37 Expression of surprise 39 Fib 42 Beam
43 Yak 47 House top 49 Bag 50 Yang's partner 52 Deprive of food 55 Soup scoop 57 Garbage 58 Ribald 59 Capital of Western Samoa 60 Metropolis 61 Grumble 62 Certain keyboard key 63 Chilled 64 Naked 65 Adam's garden 68 Bee product
The Drinking R Ages •
March
ecently I was talking with my friend Caroline when she said, “Have you ever noticed that whatever time your flight is, it’s always the right time By Dennis Phillippi for a drink?” We were, by the way, having this conversation in a bar, and went on to have a protracted discussion of drinking on airplanes. You know, how we went through a Bloody Mary phase on planes; how great it is to get bumped up to first class and get to drink out of a glass; how, in an airport bar, the answer to the question “Do you want to pay two more dollars for the big beer?” is always “Yes.” This isn’t a conversation that would be held between two people in their twenties, this was a conversation between two people who can barely remember their twenties. It made me realize that what is called for now is a basic primer on drinking throughout your life. Obviously we begin with underage drinking. We all agree that underage drinking is bad. The judgment of anyone under 21 years of age is extremely suspect. They are, after all, the same ones who insist on wearing red pants, using strange vapor smoking devices, and never seem to check the weather before they go out. Having said that, I don’t know anyone who actually had their first drink when they were 21. If someone doesn’t drink an alcoholic beverage before they reach adulthood they likely don’t plan to ever have one. That’s why I don’t know them. I would never condone underage drinking, but what I would really never condone is drinking and driving at any age. The reason young people don’t get to drink in this country is because young people can’t seem to get it into their thick heads that no one is a better driver after drinking. Not even Billy Joel. In your twenties, when you are able to drink legally, chances are you will continue to make bad decisions where alcohol is concerned because you are under the impression that you are allowed to do so. Aside from the propensity of young people to get behind the wheel pieeyed, there’s also the tendency of novice drinkers to lose control of their volume control after a few drinks. Generally this is a pretty good barometer of a person’s experience with hooch. Listen to me; no one is ever more charming when shouting. A subset of this breed are the people, almost exclusively men, who also lose control of their awareness of personal space. If you’re five inches from
me, and still yelling, you need to look around and see how the adults are behaving. In your thirties you have probably become more of a seasoned drinker. Unfortunately this often leads to the next brand of intolerable tipplers, booze snobs. Just because for the first time in your life you can afford beer that doesn’t come in a can, doesn’t mean that you have to turn into one of those people who is
In the sixth decade of your life you have been learning the ropes of alcohol consumption for thirtyish years. You have a responsibility to be an example to those coming up behind you. You’re in your fifties, so there is no excuse for staggering, slurring, weaving, stumbling or babbling incoherently, unless you’re having an aneurism, in which case it’s okay. obsessed with their beer “not being too hoppy.” This also applies to complicated mixed drinks. Look, we’re happy for you that you can pony up the dough for a complicated cocktail, but you’re still likely to look like a tool if you not only order a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned, but also insist on deciding what kind of firewater you want in
RSVPhillippi
it. If you’re in a bar that mixes fancy drinks let the bartender be the professional. By the time you reach your forties you should know what you want to drink and how many of them you are going to have. Your metabolism is slowing down by this point, so it’s important to standardize your dosage. A side note, drinkers in their forties have made it to the age where a considerable percentage have gotten divorced. There are few more dangerous combinations than divorce and drinking in public. Not that I’m encouraging you to do your drinking in private, I’m encouraging you to keep your private life private. I don’t need, or want, to hear about what an awful person your ex-husband was. I’m sure you’re right, he was a terrible husband, now keep it to yourself. In addition, if you’re in your forties and divorced, and drinking, there is no set of circumstances in which that girl or boy in their twenties is going to be interested in you. You just think they are because there’s nothing someone in their twenties enjoys more than free drinks. In the sixth decade of your life you have been learning the ropes of alcohol consumption for thirty-ish years. You have a responsibility to be an example to those coming up behind you. You’re in your fifties, so there is no excuse for staggering, slurring, weaving, stumbling or babbling incoherently, unless you’re having an aneurism, in which case it’s okay. It’s impossible for me to personally address drinking in your sixties and beyond, other than to say I encourage it. There’s something truly heartening about seeing a couple in their seventies still enjoying a glass of bourbon together—as long as you don’t contemplate what a glass or two of bourbon made you and your significant other do later. Some visuals can’t be gotten out of your head no matter how hard you try. So, to summarize, everyone gets a grace period of a decade or two, but ultimately we are all expected to act like civilized individuals, even after that fourth glass of wine. Most importantly, in the age of Uber, there is simply no excuse for drunk driving. The older one gets, the steeper the consequences for doing so. It’s bad enough to be a guy in his mid-twenties sitting in the hoosegow, but you don’t want to be the guy in his fifties sitting next to him.
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March
1943
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ewlyweds Ruth Lawler Herrington (third from left) and Clarence Goodwin Herrington (far right) met December 27, 1942, at a Christmas party in Kimbrough Towers. He proposed marriage to her the following Valentine's Day, and they married March 20, 1943. They are shown here at The Peabody Skyway Ballroom, where for years they went dancing every Saturday night. Photo courtesy of Bet Herrington Hendon If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Emily Adams Keplinger at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com. All photos will be returned promptly.
GREAT THINGS GO ON HERE! 6075 Poplar Avenue – Ninth Floor Memphis, TN 38119 901-684-1010 Crecent-Club.com
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March 2017
Don't forget Mother's Day!
F ABULOUS
NEW SELECTION OF DESIGNER ENGAGEMENT RINGS !
T UESDAY -S ATURDAY 10 AM -5 PM 9387 P OPLAR A VENUE G ERMANTOWN, TN 38138 901.758.8605 DORISMCLENDON . COM