Bodine Bash
Mid-South Heart Ball
Hands of Hope
515 Big Bell Loop
100 E. Parkway Ave. N.
2370 Carters Grove Lane
Eads, TN 38028
Memphis, TN 38104
Germantown, TN 38138
$950,000
$925,000
$1,075,000
You will be wowed when you drive into the gate of this dream estate! Almost 15 manicured acres with stunning, fully renovated 4 bedroom 5 bath main house with screened in porch overlooking separate guest quarters, beautiful pool, stocked pond, tennis court, play court, outdoor grilling/patio area and barn. Check out YouTube video and BigBellEstate.com
Bill Maury
Tim O’Hare
901.751.4311
901.609.5038
maury@ collins-maury.com
ohare@ collins-maury.com
Capture the essence of Midtown Memphis in this beautifully restored European Chateau near historic Overton Park. Inside the gates of this majestic 1.25 acre property is the primary residence along with a separate 2-story guest home and detached 4 car garage. Hardwood floors, detailed millwork, magnificent staircase and original stained-glass windows greet you upon entering the foyer of this turn of the century home. 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 1 half bath in the main home. Updated kitchen and bathrooms are among many of the modern luxuries you will enjoy. Fireplaces in the dining room, living room, billiard/play room and master suite. The breakfast room and solarium overlook a private backyard oasis in the city complete with a heated gunite pool and bath. The guest house features a full size kitchen, den, laundry, 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Renovations include new mechanical systems and back-up generator. Video tour of this home at https://youtu.be/71MQuZ0K9SU
Spectacular location on a 1.39 acres estate in the heart of Germantown. This custom built home is nestled among mature trees and features 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 2 half baths. Private master suite and renovated luxurious master bath to get away. Open plan is perfect for entertaining. Beautiful windows and sunroom overlook the picturesque property, expansive patios and gunite pool. Other amenities include a game room, separate study and craft room in this 8300+ sq ft home. Call today to schedule a showing! Video Tour of this home at https://youtu.be/ar8cU_ZDOwk
Jason Gaia
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists ©
Jason Gaia
901.338.6677
901.338.6677
jason@jasongaiateam.com
jason@jasongaiateam.com
12424 Zapata Cove Collierville, TN 38017
$529,000
Melissa Reed 901.212.3234
Alie Jones 901.550.5235
Janey Outlan 901.487.3292
Sally Isom 901.219.8882
Mary Williams 901.283.7795
Alta Simpson 901.484.6040
Patty Everitt 901.487.7709
Nancy Huddleston 901.484.9494
Cathy Banks 901.606.2374
Lexie Johnston 901.489.1604
Barbara Weir 901.412.7489
Debbie Holtermann 901.389.8948
“Under Construction Now” Artisan Custom Homes : Elegant living just 4 minutes outside of the city limits ( North Collierville Reserve area) in the Neighborhood of Spring Creek Ranch; featuring an Olympic style Swimming Pool ; Tennis ; Lake ; Trails and a Jack Nicklaus Designed Golf Course. 5Bd/4ba ; Featuring a painted white brick exterior , latest colors and styles, with Completion date approx. May 2018, Builder/Agent
Marty Smith 901-674-1031 msmith@collins-maury.com Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Collins-Maury.com 5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 Memphis, TN 38120 901.259.8550
3276 Goodman Rd. Southaven,MS 38672 662.548.2000
968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Collierville, TN 38017 901.259.8500
2015 Infiniti Q50 21k miles, Silver, $25,850
2013 BMW X3 119k miles, Carbon Black, Black, $15,990
2017 Porsche Panamera 2k miles, Volcano Grey Metallic/Black, $134,500
2014 E350 Cabriolet 22k miles, Dune Silver/Espresso Brown, $35,500
2015 GLA250 42k miles, Universe Blue Metallic/Beige, $23,750
2015 E250 BlueTec 30k miles, designo Cardinal Red/Silk Beige, $34,950
2014 C300 23k miles, Polar White/Almond, $19,950k
2015 S550 39k miles, Anthracite Blue/designo Deep Sea Blue, $59,750
CONTENTS
Features
April 2018
Signature Memphis • 12 Don Hutson CEO of U. S. Learning strives to be an inspiration to others
StreetSeen • 14 Dr. Noelle Trent Life path led to the National Civil Rights Museum
StreetSeen • 18 Richard Copley Telling unforgettable stories with his photographs
RSVPhillippi • 49 Dennis Phillippi Demographics if television advertising says a lot
Events
Hunter and Kim Thompson
Bodine Bash • 24 Fundraiser commemorated the school’s 45th anniversary
Julie Escobar and Stephanie Connelly
Memphis Moments • 16, 20, 22, 30, 31, 36, 42, 44 & 46
Cover Photo David and Angela Moss at the Mid-South Heart Ball Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo Mississippi River Landing, Memphis Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons
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Andre and Monica Wharton
Mid-South Heart Ball • 32 Event spreads awareness of cardiovascular disease and healthy living
Lauren Yoakum and Madelyn Gray
Hand of Hope • 38 Auction Party benefits the Exchange Club Family Center
A boutique for the selective shopper
Sunny Meadows Safe Haven for Pets is the largest no-kill rescue in the Mid-South. We are lucky enough to have a large facility where we house most of our animals until they find a new forever home.
BONDED PAIRS
RSVP Staff Volume XXIII • Number IV
April 2018 Publisher Roy Haithcock
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.
JayJay
Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Virginia Davis Dennis Phillippi Gaye Swan Rebekah Yearout Art Director Kim Coleman Photographers Baxter Buck Don Perry Steve Roberts Rebekah Yearout
Louise
Andrea Zucker
Account Executives Chris Pugh Carter Davis
Carter Davis
Account Executive
Daisy
LayLay JayJay and LayLay are two little chihuahuas that we pulled from a shelter in Dyersburg. They're the cutest pair that absolutely adore being able to explore a new yard or sit in someone's lap and cuddle. LayLay has a large mammary mass that we are constantly monitoring at this point (more health info can be given to any interested adopters). They are both eleven years old with JayJay weighing 9 pounds and LayLay weighing 6 pounds. These two oldies need a forever home to spend the rest of their lives at together!
Daisy and Louise are two poodles with a ton of personality! We also pulled them from a shelter in Dyersburg. Louise has Cushings disease and an old eye ulcer that ruptured while Daisy has bilateral cateracts (more health info can be given to any interested adopters). However, neither of these girls act like anything is ever wrong! They get around just fine and have confidence like no other. Louise is ten years old and weighs 12 pounds. Daisy is eight years old and weighs 12 pounds. These two outgoing poodles would love a home to call their own!
At the core of Sunny Meadows, there is a small staff of hard working people just trying to help all the animals we can. We take pride in knowing all we can know about our current furry residents so we can help match them with the ideal family and make that transition as smooth as possible.
4066 New Getwell Rd. Memphis, TN 38118 tnsafehavenforpets@yahoo.com ° sunnymeadows.org 6
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Carter is native Memphian and a veteran of the broadcast industry, and magazine publishing. He is also a freelance voiceover talent and can be heard on WKNO 91.1FM on Sundays. Carter is an avid animal lover and likes to work with aquariums as a hobby. He enjoys his East Memphis home with his wife and 2 dogs, and 6 cats.
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
Kim Coleman
Follow us on:
Art Director
Kim oversees all visual aspects of the magazine — advertising and editorial. Her career encompasses working with both print and digital media for magazines, newspapers and e-publications. Kim and her husband are raising their two children in the Cooper-Young area where their family enjoys the artistic atmosphere and entrepreneurial spirit of Midtown.
RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2018 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
April 2018
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From the Editor
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April
Phyto Scalp Analysis: Thinning hair or Hair loss associated with such factors as hormonal imbalance stress, aging, or chemtherapy. We now have the technology to look at the scalp and hair to see exactly what is happening and offer solutions to turn the thinning around or stop it.
CALLIGRAPHY CUTTING Combines careful craftmanship, passionfor creativity, and innovative techniques using a special toolto give fuller more manageable hair. Used only by intensively trained experts.
I
t is exciting to see that the annual “Greening of Memphis” is happening. Flowering trees and all sorts of bulbs are in bloom. The landscape is awakening its softer side after the winter and its time for us to get outside while the temperatures remain relatively mild. Check out the many trails at the Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). Or meander the garden paths at The Dixon. With Food Truck Fridays returning this month, admission to the gardens is free on Fridays from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Looking to add to your own little patch of green? You’re in luck because this is also the month for our local Spring Plant Sales. Dates for the one at MBG are April 12, preview party; and April 13 & 14, plant sale. Lichterman Nature Center will hold its sale on April 13, too. The Dixon will not hold its Spring Plant Sale this year; however, some plants will be for sale when they host the Memphis Flower Show, April 14 & 15, which is open to the public, free of charge. The Dixon is also offering Saturday morning tours of its Memphis Garden Club Cutting Garden. Another way to “get your green on” can be found at our area farmers markets. Locally grown produce that has been nurtured on area farms and is now making its way to a farmers market near you. But before you head out the door, there are a few markets that, for one reason or another will be missing this seasons: Arlington Open Air Market - Walker Street; Church Health and MIFA Farmers Market - Union Avenue; Memphis Botanic Garden Farmers Market - Cherry Road; and MFM Squared - Court Square in Downtown Memphis. Some of these markets, like the one in Arlington, expect to return in another season or two, with bigger and better facilities. The others...well, not so much. But don’t despair, there are plenty of markets taking place across our community, and many of them will open this month. If the timing of these markets doesn’t mesh with your schedule, there’s something new since last Spring that might help — a Farmers Market delivery service call SingBean. You can pick and choose what you want and how much you want from a variety of farmers by going online to www.singbean.com. Customers can pick up their orders at Trolley Stop (704 Madison) on Wednesdays, from 3 - 8 p.m. Free deliveries are available on Wednesdays, 3 - 8 p.m. for orders of $25 or more, in selected zones (see the delivery map on their website). Watch for them to grow their hours as the summer season progresses.
A new system to help clients to see what colors will make them look their best. No more guessing about make up, haircolor and shades of colors to wear.
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
American Board Certified Haircolorists We have two ABCH colorists specializing in fabulous haircolor.
MASTER DESIGN SALON OFFERS BEAUTIFUL HAIR THROUGH EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY.
5149 WHEELIS DRIVE | 901-685-2351 10
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GERMANTOWN COLLECTION / 7820 POPLAR AVE #3 / GERMANTOWN TN 38138 / 901.754.0018
Signature Memphis
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Don Hutson Speaker, Author, Sales & Negotiations expert, and CEO of U. S. Learning Meaningful affiliations: The U of M Board of Visitors; The Society of Entrepreneurs; Founding Board, Past President of The National Speakers Association.
Hometown: I was born in Norman OK, but didn’t care for
Oklahoma, so moved to Memphis when I was 6 months old… here ever since.
Favorite Song: Rhapsody in Blue (and anything else Gershwin)
Your Lucky Charm: My wife, Terri Your Best Quality: Genuinely wanting to be an inspiration to others
A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: Sir Winston Churchill. If he’s tied up, Mark Twain. If another guest is allowed, I would love to have Jesus join us.
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Boating on the Mississippi River Favorite Place to Travel: Singapore Best Memphis Hangout: The University Club First Car You Owned: A ’57 Oldsmobile 88 Coupe Place You Go to Think: My study, my deck or our community park Best Advice You Ever Got: Think abundance, not scarcity, in everything you do. Your Most Annoying Habit: To some, I’m sure it’s my endless optimism. The Highlight of Your Day: Waking up healthy and happy in America! Proudest Moment of Your Life: Walking down 6th Avenue in New York City with Dr.
Who Would Play You in a Movie: Mel Gibson Something You’ll Never Live Down: My nickname from high school, “Duck.” One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: I’d like to achieve total peace and joy in knowing I’ve had a life well-lived — I’m still working on it!
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Photo by Steve Roberts
Ken Blanchard from a Fox Business News interview to ABC-TV for another one after learning that our recently-launched ONE MINUTE ENTREPRENEUR book had just hit #1 on The New York Times and Wall Street Journal Best-Seller lists.
e
730 West Clover Drive | Memphis, TN 38120
Eddie Scruggs | (901) 212-8257
$1,480,000
9116 Belle Fleurs Cove | Germantown, TN 38139
Eddie Scruggs + Karen Foster | (901) 466-4000
$1,295,000
9161 Belle Fleurs Cove | Germantown, TN 38139
Greg Renfrow | (901) 283-2899
$900,000
1702 Padington Park Lane | Germantown, TN 38138
10890 Monterey Road | Unincorporated, TN 38028
234 Chadwick Woods Lane | Collierville, TN 38017
Eddie Scruggs + Karen Foster | (901) 466-4000
Eddie Scruggs + Karen Foster | (901) 466-4000
BHHS New Home Sales Team | (901) 466-4040
$760,000
$1,249,000
$592,900
“Berkshire Hathaway is the world’s most trusted and respected corporation” – Barron’s
901.466.4000 || bhhstaliesynrealty.com Find + Like us on Facebook! 7990 Trinity Road | Memphis, TN 38018 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC
Dr. Noelle Trent Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
All roads led to the National Civil Rights Museum
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r. Noelle Trent, a native of West Chester, PA, moved to the Washington, DC area as a teenager. She remained in DC for college, and earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees, at Howard University, where she was Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude graduate. Although she started college with an undeclared major, it soon become clear that American history was her calling. “It wasn’t a great surprise for me that my career path led me to working in a museum,” explained Dr. Trent. “I grew up going to art museums, history museums and African-American museums. But even more influential was my relationship with one of our church members, an anthropologist who had a collection of black dolls, some dating back to the 1830s. These African-American images made me wonder about the stories connected with those dolls. That curiosity spilled over into questions about people. I found I was passionate about their histories and experiences. And being in DC, that’s like being in the ‘Hollywood’ of public history.” Dr. Trent’s academics were combined with internships at some of the nation’s most prominent institutions, like the National Archives and the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. She later worked as a Park Ranger at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. These experiences cemented her desire to preserve people’s stories and their legacies. After graduation, she worked as a freelance researcher and contributed to the permanent exhibitions at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington. With an eye toward doing something different, she began a job search that led to a posting for a position at the National Civil Rights Museum. “I had only been to Memphis once for a brief stay, but I liked what I had seen,” recalled Dr. Trent. “After a series of interviews and an in-person tour of
the museum that included meeting a number of staff members, I waited to hear their response. When the phone call came that they wanted to hire me, I was on my way to Memphis within two weeks. That was in August 2015.” Now as Director of Interpretation, Collections, and Education at the National Civil Rights Museum, Dr. Trent is having a profound effect on the face and the future of the facility. “If you want to look at, learn about or donate something, you come see me,” explained Dr. Trent. “I have team of five staff members that facilitates how the public interacts with the core exhibitions, items, programs of the museum.” Also, Dr. Trent works with the museum’s
Collections Manager, discussing possible acquisitions and traveling exhibitions. She explained that the exhibit “MLK 50: A Legacy Remembers” will include rarely seen photos from 1968, Dr. King’s last year. Of the museum’s 23 galleries, Dr. Trent recommended starting with the introductory film. “It gives background to help understand why the civil rights movement needed to happen,” said Dr. Trent. “Another place not to be hurried through is the Memphis Sanitation Workers exhibition. I think the museum does a really great job of honoring the voices of the sanitation workers. Also, through our presentation guests can hear a recording of Dr. King talking about his commitment to the workers. And what everyone wants to see is “The King Room,” Room 306 in the Lorraine Motel. That room has a very strong sense of ‘power of place’. It is one of the things that sets our museum apart, being on location where history happened.” Dr. Trent also pointed out that the museum’s outside courtyard offers iconic views and interpretive facts. “We want to inspire people to see themselves as part of the continuum for positive change,” concluded Dr. Trent. “Now, as it was then, regular, everyday people deciding to step up and take action.” For information about the National Civil Rights Museum and planned events, visit mlk50.civilrightsmuseum.org.
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Memphis Moment
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Alpha Omega Veterans Services Military Masquerade Ball
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he second annual Military Masquerade Ball was a spirited fundraiser designed to raise money to help veterans and spread awareness about Alpha Omega Veterans Services (AOVS). Cordell Walker, executive director of AOVS, explained, “Alpha Omega Veterans Services is a nonprofit organization that helps homeless and disabled military veterans reintegrate into society by providing them with housing and other essential supportive services.” In keeping with the Mardi Gras theme, guests were encouraged to wear masks with their party attire. Colorful strand of beads decorated tables and Chef Gary Williams showed off his Creole cuisine with traditional dishes of red beans and rice, chicken and sausage jambalaya, crawfish etouffée, and bread pudding. Chef Erling Jensen spiced things up with an offering of buffalo meatballs. The Mighty Souls played lively tunes while guests perused silent auction items and later in the evening Memphis rapper Al Kapone brought his brand of music to the stage.
Gracie Leathers, Samantha Taylor and Kayla Hillhouse
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Peggy Voeller, Rieta Selberg, Peggy Larkin and Teri Boatwright
Daniel and Charmaine Taylor
Jon Bernhardt, Krissy Drake and Steve Bernhardt
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Mayor Jim Strickland and Cordell Walker
Katy Langston, Nathan Berry and Bevan Lee
Luis and Colleen Orbegoso
Oona Mitchell and Al Kapone
Anne Tweet and Penne McWaters
Alayne and Paul Arbogast
FOR SALE
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UNDER CONTRACT
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Mike Parker, ABR, GRI
Affiliate Broker, Multi-Million Dollar Lifetime Member
c. 901-277-7275 mikeparker-realtor.com mparker@m-brealtors.com Since 1868
Capturing history in photographs
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
Copley Richard
April
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ichard Copley grew up in Memphis. He went to Kingsbury and was a member of the first class to attend there for all 12 years. Upon graduation in 1964, he had begun to develop an interest in photography. In that way, the proverbial apple didn’t fall from the tree.
“My father was a really good amateur photographer,” recalled Copley. “And, my mother was gracious enough to let him use our only bathroom as his dark room. I fondly remember negatives and prints dripping from the shower rod over the bathtub to dry.” One of Copley’s first jobs after graduating high school was at Blue Light Studio, on the corner of Main Street and Beale. On Friday and Saturday nights, he says, “every walk of life would come in to get their picture taken.” Copley also found that he could earn extra income shooting weddings. Things moved up a notch while Copley was a student majoring in journalism at Memphis State. One of his fraternity brothers hooked him up with a parttime student job in photo services. “It was there that I met my mentor, Gil Michael, who was director of photo services at that time,” said Copley. “He called me in one day and told me that there was a union that needed some pictures taken. I was 22 years old at the time and had no idea what I was stepping into. It turned out to be the most important job of my life.” The union of reference was involved in the 1968 sanitation strike. “On Dr. King’s first visit to Memphis at Mason Temple, I covered that speech and he promised to come back to lead a march,” said Copley. “Then came a huge snowstorm that completely shut down the city, so the march was postponed. But on March 28, Dr. King led a march that started at Claiborne Temple and went to Beale Street. Sadly, the march turned violent. There was screaming and glass breaking — all hell broke loose. Almost immediately I was sprayed with pepper gas and tear gas, but I could still hear what was going on. It was a very sad day in Memphis.” Copley continued, “The National Guard was called in with tanks and patrolled the streets of Memphis. The next day there was a peaceful march that went on without incident and I managed to take my favorite photo of the civil rights movement.” That photo, titled, “Dignity,” features two sanitation workers wearing their Sunday best and stern looks, with
the word “Dignity” stenciled on a sign. However, Copley said his most famous photo from that time in Memphis is called “I am a Man”. Copley thought his goal was to become a photographer with National Geographic, but that didn’t happen. Five or six days later the sanitation strike was settled and he was back to being a college student — without any idea of the magnitude of the pictures he took being as important as they are today. As Copley’s career progressed, he became notable for other Memphis photos featured on CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite, and shot live pictures from a helicopter showing limousines pulling out of Graceland for Elvis’ funeral. Copley worked in New York City providing photo coverage for NBC, CBS and ABC. He covered Katrina from Biloxi, and was on the top floor of “30 Rock” with Tom Brokaw doing the news the night of the 9/11 attacks. Fifty years after the MLK assignation, Copley’s iconic images are still taking him places. “I have an exhibit on display at the Stax Museum, as well as a show called ‘Striking Voices’ at the main library,” explained Copley. ”The latter photos are combined with photographs by Darrius Williams, who took portraits of family members of the sanitation workers.” Also, Copley is starting a countrywide tour to take his images to places that held significant events during the Civil Rights Movement, such as Greensboro, NC, where the International Civil Rights Center & Museum is located and where the now famous sit-in took place at a Woolworth counter. “The AFL/CIO is putting up an exhibit of my images in Washington, too,” added Copley. Copley’s iconic images are back in circulation, helping to tell the unforgettable story that happened right here in Memphis. For more information about Richard Copley and his photographs, visit https:// www.facebook.com/Richard-L-CopleyPhotography-122796538477005/.
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Memphis Moment
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Page Robbins Winter Gala The Emerald City
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uests “followed the Yellow Brick Road” to the Grand Ballroom of The Peabody for the 2018 Page Robbins Winter Gala. The evening began with socializing and hors d’oeuvres. Attire for the event was black tie optional, but some partygoers showed up dressed as their favorite Wizard of Oz characters. Inside the ballroom, music from the iconic movie added to the festive atmosphere. Gala chairs Dodd and Carole Williams welcomed the crowd and Father Jeff Marx, Rector at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, gave the Invocation. A live auction, led by Terri Walker of Walker Auctions, added to the coffers of the evening in support of Page Robbins Adult Daycare Center. Attendees danced until midnight to the sounds of The Soul Shockers and a photo booth, sponsored by Renasant Bank, offered the opportunity for partygoers to capture their visit to “The Emerald City.”
Steve Cooper, Linda Stephens with Diane and Rogan Fry
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Dan and Patty Bullock with Jacqueline Lycan and Patrick Brannon
Leah and Ben Shull
Alexander and Elizabeth Mathew
Jennifer Reginelli and Jana Simmons
Mary Iberg and Sue Berry
Joel and Emily Thomas
Emily and Austin Bullock
Alan Durham, Andy Bramlett and David Spencer
Kim Spencer, Stacy Bramlett and Heather Durham
Jeff Marx and Susanne Heartsill
Mia and Paul Henley
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Memphis Moment
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Association for Women Attorneys Annual Awards Banquet
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he Association for Women Attorneys paid tribute to The Hon. Claudia Haltom during its 2018 banquet. Haltom accepted AWA’s Marion Griffin-Frances Loring Award, which recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to women in the legal profession. Upon retiring from Memphis and Shelby County Juvenile Court, Haltom’s experience of serving as juvenile court magistrate for 17 years led her to found A Step Ahead Foundation. Since 2011 the foundation has provided Shelby County women free access to the most effective, long-acting, reversible methods of contraception. Its resources help women prevent unplanned pregnancies and enable them to plan their lives and their families. The banquet also included inductions of AWA’s 2018 officers and scholarship presentations to four students at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Story and Photos by Virginia M. Davis Judges Garland Erguden, Mitzi Pollard, Terre Fratesi and Loyce L. Ryan
Claudia Haltom and Tanja Mitchell
Tiffany Bowders, Anne Davis and Leah Hillis
Eileen Kuo and Laurie Christensen
Kimbrely Dandridge, Melody McNally, Diana Comes and Jeremy Holliday
Elizabeth and Judge David Rudolph
Nathan Till and Colby Morgan
Megan Warden and Jenna McDonald
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Karlyn Washington, Whitney Snow, Tiffany Smith and Victoria Cooper
Belinda Simpson and Nikki Gibbs
Listening & understanding, available here.
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Kathy Thurmond-Edwards, Agent 680 West Brookhaven Circle Memphis, TN 38117 Bus: 901-767-7744 Cell: 901-550-5852 kathy@teamkte.com
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State Farm, Bloomington, IL
April 2018
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Bodine Bash
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Bodine Bash
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Libby Daughdrill and Caroll Ann Pera
Michelle and Skip Redmond
Sapphires & Blue Suede Shoes
he 2018 Bodine Bash was a lively event that took place at the Memphis Grand Carousel Pavilion and Ballroom at the Children’s Museum of Memphis. The fundraiser commemorated the Bodine School’s 45th anniversary and celebrated the organization’s positive impact on numerous children and their families since the school’s founding in 1972. “Bodine is a nonprofit independent school serving students in grades 1-6 who have been diagnosed with dyslexia,” explained John Murphy, Head of School. “Bodine School’s mission is to lead the Mid-South in teaching students with dyslexia to read and succeed. Bodine students thrive in an excellent, well-rounded elementary school environment with an emphasis on research-based language arts instruction.” With the theme of Sapphires and Blue Suede Shoes, it was no surprise to see that Elvis was in the building. Actually, it was professional Elvis tribute artist Brian Lee Howell, and he made sure things stayed upbeat and “all shook up,” as attendees enjoyed a dinner on the pavilion catered by A Moveable Feast & Hog Wild Catering Co. Complimentary red and white
wine and four unique beer selections were provided by Memphis Filling Station, along with nonalcoholic sodas and bottled water. Guests made their way through tables laden with one-of-a-kind auction items like sporting event tickets, a beachfront vacation, and Memphis restaurant experiences. People used their mobile phones to place their bids on Bodine’s on-line auction site. Many of the party-goers also kicked up their heels and took a spin on the recently restored 1909 Dentzel Memphis Grand Carousel. Live music by Memphis Soul Remedy closed out the evening. “This year’s fundraiser was sponsored by FedEx,” said Gretchen Klobucar, Director of Development at Bodine. “Proceeds from this event will enable Bodine School to make enhancements to the excellent elementary school experience that it provides for students with dyslexia. Charitable support helps make the school more accessible to mission-appropriate students across the Mid-South. Bodine School’s transformative programming is an essential educational resource for the Mid-South, as it is estimated that up to 20% of the population displays characteristics of dyslexia.”
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Andrea Zucker
Loie and Melvin Watkins
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Melissa and Jason Lee
Jan and Al Lyon
Allison and Andy Cates
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Jill and Bill Giles
Mike Adams and Casey Condra with Crystal and Greg Spillyards
April 2018
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April
Jim and Kathryn Gilliland with Kirby and Windy May
Devon Rountree, Melanie Murphy and Cheryl Stegbauer
Cindy and Sean Carlson
John and Angie Ashford
Peggy Bodine, Dr. William E. Long and Cissy Long
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April 2018
Julia Allen and Ann Connell
Miriam and Dennis Kennetz
Julie and Kevin Stonebarger
Kassidy Botwell, Andy Huffman, Leslie Beard and Audrey Bradshaw
Memphis Moment
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April
ICCS Mardi Gras Putting the Fun in Fundraising
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he Cadre Building took on a festive glow with the colors of purple, gold and green as Immaculate Conception Cathedral School (ICCS) held its annual Mardi Gras celebration. The school’s chef, Anthony Terrell, catered a buffet filled with favorite New Orleans foods including shrimp and grits, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and shrimp and oysters po’ boys. King Cake and cheesecake topped off the meal. Memphis Second Line Jazz Band let the good times roll as brought their brand of music to the party and led guests in a procession. Afterwards, Fred Ross of DJ Sketchz spun records and brought everyone to the dance floor for the rest of the evening. Proceeds from the event will be used for the school’s general operating expenses. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Kerry Ross, Lauren Fuchs and Jana Robinson
Cathy Armstrong with Carl and Ann Shorter Chelsey and Katy Kitchens
Genevieve and Stanton Thomas
Dr. Mikael Carrier and Paige Williams
Carlos and Marta Rivera
Bill Pettit, Karen Gephart, Ronnie Vinson and Alan Crone
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April 2018
Misley and Leonardo Nieves
Keith and Sara Yarrow
Mona and Carlos McAfee
Father Robert Marshall with Meg and Max Koss
Dick and Kathy Hackett
April
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Whiskey, Wine and Chocolates Benefit for Memphis Botanic Garden
A
Portia Robinson and Danny Ray, Jr.
Emley Henter and Rhea Stokes
sold out crowd was treated to an evening of Whiskey, Wine and Chocolates at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Guests were greeted with a signature cocktail before heading into the Valentine’s Day-themed Hardin Hall to sample gourmet designer chocolates from chocolatier Phillip Ashley Rix, paired with select whiskeys from Old Dominick’s Distillery, rich wines, and craft beer. A catered buffet offered a wonderful variety of heavy hors d‘oeuvres and a cash bar was available. BeLeaf Cigar Company displayed handrolling techniques and had cigars for purchase, and the patio was open for those wishing to sample cigars on site. The Amazin’ Grayson showed off his magic tricks, and Objekt 12 provided live music. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Grayson Smith and Ashley Carver
Khiira Harris with Lamarr and Ka’Ren Chatman
Mark and Ryan Harris with Lee and Colleen Wilson
Jeff Soucia and Alexandra Smoliar
Justin Totty and Grace Anderson
Tiffany Evans and Rich George
AVOID THE HASSLE OF A JUMBO LOAN WITH A CONVENTIONAL LOAN UP TO $679,650 April 2018
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Mid-South Heart Ball
April
Mid-South Heart Ball
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Chirag and Mandy Chauhan
Jennifer and Paul Kelley
Rockin’ the Blues
crowd of more than 600 people gathered at The Peabody for the 2018 Mid-South Heart Ball, an annual fundraiser for the American Heart Association (AHA). This year’s Heart Ball chairmen were John and Leslie Daniel. They were joined by Brad and Dina Martin, who served as honorary chairs. The Executive Leadership Team was comprised of Darrell Doane, Rob Heard, Christopher Jenkins, Kim Jordan, John Lewis, John Maki, Paulo Teixeria and Patricia Emory-Walker. First Tennessee Foundation was the event’s signature sponsor. The event began with cocktails and a silent auction in the Continental Ballroom. Guests moved to the Grand Ballroom for dinner where all-blue floral centerpieces, designed by Greg Campbell of Garden District, provided a visual delight. Guests dined on a three-course meal catered by The Peabody. Dr. Dharmesh Patel, a cardiologist at Stern Cardiovascular Foundation and President of the American Heart Association Board of Directors, welcomed attendees and spoke about the history that AHA has of partnering with local nonprofit organizations. Gerold Blum was this year’s “Open Your Heart” honoree. Through a video presentation, his parents, Jerry and Barbara and sisters Emily and Nicole shared the story of the sudden loss of See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Gerold at the age of 18 to heart disease. They spoke about the need to fund the research of the American Heart Association and asked for others to support the organization’s mission. “AHA has given our family an avenue where we feel like we are able to find something positive out of our personal tragedy,” explained Jerry. “We think the American Heart Association is a great organization, one that is producing miracles and saving lives everyday through the research that they fund.” Barbara added, “My son, Gerold was bigger than life — he always had a smile on his face and never failed to make others laugh. Our involvement with AHA is a way for us to extend his legacy.” Auctioneer Jeff Morris led the group through a live auction of items. Afterwards, Morris solicited additional donations ranging from $500 to $10,000 as he asked patrons to open their hearts and their wallets in support of the AHA. The American Heart Association has set a goal that by 2020, they will improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20 percent while reducing deaths from cardiovascular disease and stroke by 20 percent. All proceeds from this year’s Heart Ball will be used to spread awareness throughout the MidSouth about cardiovascular disease and try to help people lead healthier lives.
Julian Mangrum and Sara Stukenborg
Thelma and Stanton Brown
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Ann and Gene Henson
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Jeff and Belinda Roth
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April 2018
Mauricio and Yancy Calvo with Jackie and Dr. Chris lngelmo
Bruce and Janie Hopkins
April
Lauren Berry and Sarah Greenspan
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Mid-South Heart Ball
Jenna Walter and Conner Townsend
Lisa Shurden, Teresa Wilkes and Brenda Grace
Bob and Tracy Moore
Manoucheka Thermitus and Schiller Jerome
Celine, Chris and Adrienne LeBlanc with Jessica Miller
April 2018
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Mid-South Heart Ball
April
Su’Aaron and Ralph Travis
Clare and Bill Mann
James Robinson and Ashley Spencer
Deborah and King Johnson
Dr. Jennifer McNary-Mcilvain and Jeff Mcilvain
Tyler and Nicole McGlaughlin
Gail and Phil Gray
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Leslie and John Daniel
Kyle and Sarah Kimbrough
April 2018
John and Julie Craig
Jerry and Barbara Blum
Brian and Emily Singer
Lori and Tony Franklin
April
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Mid-South Heart Ball
Beauty Doesn't Happen By Chance… It Happens By Appointment Tom and Constance Conley
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Charles and Allison Vance
Kim and Kyle Nichols
Tamia Hinson and Sequoyah Lewis
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April 2018
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Memphis Moment
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April
Science of Beer Popular Local Brewers Shine at the Pink Palace
W
hen ice and snow hit the Mid-South, the 5th annual Science of Beer had to be rescheduled – but the change in date did not deter beer aficionados. A sold-out crowd thronged to the Pink Palace to enjoy beer and food tastings, fascinating lectures and the chance to chat with vendors and fellow beer lovers. Local professional and home brewers offered IPAs, lagers, ales, stouts, porters and more. Tasty treats from some of Memphis’ best restaurants were on hand as well, ranging from barbecue and fried chicken to cupcakes. Pretzel necklaces, beer goggle sports and professor-led experiments proved popular again this year. Attendees enjoyed lectures on “Homebrewing Q&A,” “I Prefer the Aquifer” and “Trivial Trivia.” Fun new activities included a silent auction and a prize pull. Guests received commemorative glasses donated by Memphis Filling Station. Event sponsors included Diversified Trust and Pinnacle Financial Partners. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan Jennifer and Michael Goodin with Lauren Wong and Andrew Lee
Donna Lee, Kristy Delaney and Christine Lee
Donna and Alan Mullen
Jermaine and Katherine Shorter
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April 2018
Regina Smith and Bob Galloway
Ben Palmer, Rebecca Rupff, Lacey Hall and Paul Shimek
Sarah and Andrew Soltau
Maurice Holeyfield and Elizabeth Moore
Phil Jones, Chuck Carter and Steve Nokes
Keana and Corey Allert
Mike and Stacey Piercey with Paul and Cathi Johnson
Hands of Hope
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Hands of Hope Auction Party
I Teri and Bart Hanners
Justin and Cara Grinder
The Heart of it All
t’s been said that a little bit of hope can make big and wonderful things happen. For more than two decades, the Exchange Club Family Center has been in the business of hope and has made life better for fragile families throughout the Mid-South through trauma-focused counseling, group therapy and educational services. More than 300 supporters gathered at the Ballet Memphis Center at Overton Square for the 2018 Hands of Hope Auction Party, an annual fundraising gala. Guests arrived at valet parking and were ushered inside where they were greeted with glasses of sparkling wine and checked in for bidding in the silent auction. Among the many treasures up for grabs were tickets from Playhouse on the Square and The Orpheum Theatre, a case of fine wines from Southern Glazers Wines and Spirits, a $200 gift certificate to Capital Grille with a set of fine cutlery, and a black mink coat by Christian Dior. Others who generously donated items included Sissy’s Log Cabin, with an array of fine jewelry, FedEx St. Jude Golf Association, Nike, Advanced Dermatology Bounty on Broad, McEwen’s, Little Red Treehouse, Visha Skincare, and Silver Dunes of Destin. The live auction, presided over by Hunter Morris, featured paintings by local artists including Paul Edelstein, Rose
Sitton, Grace Skertich, Katelyn Russell and John Warmath. There was a wine and whiskey pull, as well as handcrafted birdhouses by Family Center clients, which could be purchased for a donation. Partygoers lined up for premium libations from the fully stocked open bar and feasted on mouth-watering goodies from CFY Catering. There was hot brown mac and cheese and cola braised Claybrook Farms short ribs served over smoked cheddar stone ground grits and cups of fresh vegan tomato soup. Desserts included lemon berry tartlets, white chocolate peach bread pudding and dark chocolate mousse cups. A fun addition to the party came from Marcy Milman Productions, who set up a photo booth, complete with props, for a unique picture memory of the evening. Guests danced the night away to the soulful sounds of Peabody Rocket. Presenting sponsors were IBERIABANK and State Systems. Other supporters included Ballet Memphis, Buster’s Liquors, North Berkley Wine, Holliday Flowers and Events, inferno, Bluff City Jaguar Land Rover, MCR Safety, Grinder Taber and Grinder, Ring Container Technologies, Signworks, Memphis Made Brewing, Autozone, AC Electric, Macy’s, and Morgan and Morgan.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Baxter Buck
Lauren and Brian Yoakum
DeMone and Dr. Ledia Payne
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Dr. Mary and Judge Jon McCalla
Tommie and Webb Baird
Tanya and Boo Mitchell
Ted and Kathy Ferguson with Henry and Heather Grosvenor
Edward and Grace Hartman
April
Lauren and Matthew Gant
Barbara and Bob King
Jessica and Mitchell Horst
Ben and Emily Graham
Molly Courtney and Haynes Westlake
Nikki Gardner and Jeremy Baer
Jason Steward and Gabe Taylor
Connie and Carl Barton
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April
Drag and Flo Yarbro
Faith Sanford and Kristen Downey
Matthew and Elizabeth Domas
Teresa Buzinsky and Luiz Diniz
Emily Todd and Chris Bursi
Barbara Patrons with Ricky and Catherine Harris
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April 2018
Chad and Hattie Rounder
Wesley Grace and Gina Deutsch
Anna Phillips and Dr. Jon Low
Eraina and Matthew Schauss
Ryan Saharovich, Rachel Bressier, Lauren Pelts and Parker Trotz
April
Sandie and Bill McWatters
• Hands of Hope
Christy and John Sharp
Debbie Jones, Debbie Reid, Chelsea Jones and Patricia Maynard
S I N C E 1995
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Memphis Moment
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April
Literacy is Key A Book and Author Event
B
ook lovers and literacy supporters gathered at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis for the eighth annual Literacy is Key event, presented by the Memphis Kappa Kappa Gamma Alumnae Association as a philanthropic endeavor. Andrea Harano chaired this year’s event, along with assistant chairman Janie Lowery. “Literacy is Key is a book and author event, with a luncheon and presentations by three nationally acclaimed authors,” explained Harano. Emcee Darrell Greene, of WBHQ Fox 13 News, brought authors Kristy Woodson Harvey, Christina Baker Kline and Kim Wright onstage to tell their personal stories and share background about their books. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Literacy is Key go to organizations like First Books and other local literary, non-profit organizations. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Laurie Whiteley and Chesley Porteous
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Linda Ashmore and Carole Pruett
Megan Westbrook, Emily Patterson and Sabrina Ackerman
Janie Lowery with David Harano, Andrea Harano and Marsha Berry
Tia Osment, Charlotte Bray and Samantha Towne
Marilyn Barnes and Ann Smith
Summer Godman, Heather Grosvenor and Carole Manley
Pat Luttrell and Mayor Mark Luttrell
Rochelle Fenton and Teresa Wilson
Lillie Kay Mitchell, Hope Cook and Patricia Cook
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April 2018
Memphis Moment
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April
TEP Gumbo Contest Let the Good Times Roll
D
elicious aromas filled the air at the annual Tennessee Equality Project (TEP) Gumbo Contest, as a lively crowd mingled and sampled the savory treats. Presented by Memphis Hilton, this year’s Mardi Gras celebration boasted 18 teams who competed for prizes awarded by a panel of judges, and by guests who voted for their favorites. Rouxing on the River won first place from the judges, while Roux-thless Dames captured the hearts (and tastebuds) of the people. “We are proud to do this for the eighth year,” said Jonathan Cole, chair of the event. “Gumbo is a very egalitarian dish that brings different ingredients and people together.”
Brandon Leslie and Robin Stevens
Rebecca Paulk, Laura Goodman-Bryan, Jakatae Jessup and Susan Moskop
Paul Linxwiler, Curtis Davis and Christy Tweddle
Sarah Katko, Helen Akin and Leslie Pace
Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Chaz Fowler, Bri Kirwan and Justin Smith
Judge David and Elizabeth Rudolph
James Griffith and Thais Lloyd
Stephanie Wilbanks and Jeannie Aboaasi
Gerry Thomas, Becky Treace-Entrekin and Ruthie Northcutt
Betty Lu Jones, Kay Price and Nancy Chamblin
Joan Draper, Jane Curtis and Kathrine Getske
Ann Wieties, Pat Massengill and Barbara Layman
Anne Robilio, Annemarie Bobay and Donna Godwin
Pat Dunleavy and Jean Robinson
Duration Club Fun and Fellowship
M
embers of the Duration Fine Arts Club celebrated the holidays with a festive luncheon at the Crescent Club. Donna McManus was the event chairman. Club President Tommie Pardue led the group in a blessing. The seated luncheon included green salad and Sicilian chicken with rice and asparagus spears. Apple tarts were served for dessert. After the meal, under the direction of Joseph Powell, students from the A Cappella Choir of White Station High School entertained the group. The choir sang several traditional carols, then led the group in a spirited singalong. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Lil Allen and Norma McCrory
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April 2018
Tommie Pardue and Donna McManus
Memphis Moment
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April
Wine for Wishes Benefiting the Mid-South Chapter of Make-A-Wish
T
he Make-A-Wish Mid-South Associate Board hosted the eighth annual Wine for Wishes at The Cadre Building. Over 400 guests enjoyed wine tasting, a wine pull, a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and live music. Buster’s Liquors donated the 16 featured wines, Staks Pancake Kitchen donated the desserts, and guests were treated to a signature cocktail donated by Old Dominick’s Distillery. The bartenders were courtesy of Memphis Bar Ties. Attendees enjoyed the sounds of Charvey Mac as they mingled and bid on the many silent auction items. “The Associate Board is a group of 19 young professionals who meet monthly to raise awareness for Make-A-Wish within our age group. Wine for Wishes is our premier event, and we are so happy with this year’s turnout. We expect to raise enough money to grant at least seven wishes,” said event chair Mallory Podesta.
Martha Podesta and Will Podesta
Carey and Philip Pontius
Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Ari Hertz, Lauren Williams and Joseph Robinson
Gavin Lindsey and Sierra Penrod with Sara and Bryce Miller
Kathy King and Paul Winter
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Paul Prather and Justin Miller
Jamesha Hayes and Regina DeLoach
Amanda Montgomery and Sarah Bowe
Molly Adkins, Kasandra Berry and Debbie Long
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April 2018
Casey Tansey and Mallory Podesta
Juliana Guerra, Andres Jimenez and Fernanda Guerra
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1 Fitting 4 Opaque gem 8 Lost 12 Luau dish 13 Naked 14 Ancient Roman burial stone 16 Proposes 18 Italian sausage
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Edited By Ruth Cassin
20 Guiding principles 21 Warble 23 Large weight unit 24 Digit 25 Little one 26 Writing table 27 Battle fatigue, i.e. 29 Covered in coarse hair 32 Music genre 33 Flees 34 Roman Catholic devotion 38 Frugality 40 Woeful 41 Spud 42 Decays 43 US org. responsible for public health 44 Vets 46 Adolescent 47 Information in visible form 50 O'Leary's drug of choice 51 Christmas mo. 52 Boxer Muhammad 53 Rice wine 55 Small movie part 58 Uproar 60 Addition of liquid 63 UK unit of length 64 Little Mermaid's love 65 Basin 66 Clump, as in hair
April 2018
67 Certain compass point 68 Bard's before
DOWN 1 Church part 2 Sullen look 3 (In) a jam 4 Overly fat 5 Mas' mates 6 Craft 7 Landlords 8 Org. 9 Male deer 10 One might be a Moray 11 Having wings 15 "Roots" actor John 17 Not bad? 19 Writing liquid 22 ___ A Small World... 25 Miniscule 26 Hindu goddess, consort of Siva 27 Set up, as for a meal 28 Food truck offering 29 Comedy 30 Parts of a whole 31 Tater ___ 33 University or college military instruction program (abbr.) 35 Successful 36 Bare 37 Actor Alda 39 Gemini and Apollo org.
40 Small lake 42 Dwells (at) 45 Moose relative 46 Written material 47 Telegraphic signal 48 Grad 49 Himalayan country 51 Playing card below trey 53 Ride the waves 54 Assist, as in a wrong doing 56 Emulate a lion 57 Pay to play 59 AC iunit 61 Wrath 62 Ad ___
GRAPHIC DEMO April
L ike a of people, as I get older I’m more and more likely to watch a rerun of an old television show than I am to watch a new one. It seems like By Dennis Phillippi most new TV shows are either about forensics, off brand superheroes, or some kind of contest where the idea seems to be to see which terrible person can be the most terrible. For me there’s great comfort in watching a sitcom from when I was younger, or even catching up on a silly detective show I never watched when it was new. The shows themselves are the broadcast equivalent of comfort food. Reruns of Cheers or Castle are like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese. The problem is that all of these shows appear on networks where the advertisers seem deeply concerned about my prostate health, possible malpractice suits I should file, or how much supplemental insurance we’re carrying. Which, by the way, is none. I refuse to take life advice from a duck. This had started to bother me because I thought; why on earth are they running ads on this channel? This is where I get my daily fix of M*A*S*H. Why aren’t they aiming at their ideal demographic? Then it started to really bother me when I realized I am their ideal demographic. Advertisers target different age groups for different things. Your 12-17 year olds are rich in stupid, so computer games and acne treatments get aimed at them. 18-24, believe it or not, is even thicker with dumb, that’s why they’re the ones flashy cars, energy drinks, and gym memberships are pushed towards. When you get to the 25-34 range you’re starting to get to people who have earned some actual money, and here come the ads for pricey booze, unpalatable but expensive beers, and websites to help them buy houses in safe neighborhoods. 35-44 is where the real moola can be found and they’re the ones who get non-stop encouragement to invest in risky things, go on ridiculous vacations, and websites to find houses in even safer neighborhoods. By the time they get to 45-54 the ads are all about the fact that the people in that demographic range are becoming aware that they are slowing down, so they need dietary supplements, cosmetic dentistry, and drugs to make a man more...manly. Then along comes my generation, I’m 54 but the 55-64 ads are mainly about whether or not using any of the things you were sold in your forties have given you a disease you don’t know you have.
My generation gets a lot of commercials about reverse mortgages, because those really safe neighborhoods don’t come cheap, invisible, comfortable, water proof undergarments and prepaid funerals.
For one thing; no one at your funeral is under oath. I don’t plan to settle for a formulaic sermon from a minister I’ve never met. I plan to have a eulogy delivered by a minister who has never met me all right, because he’s going to be reading a eulogy written by me and it’s going to be chock full of lies. Mourners are going to walk out of that service with a whole new appreciation of me. That’s the one that gets me. These ads are pure scare tactics that if you don’t go ahead and pony up the dough for your last hurrah, then you’re going to bankrupt your family, which will
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make them hate you for dying. At first the idea of spending money on something so ghoulish was disturbing. It’s the ultimate example of paying for something you will not get to enjoy. Like paying into Social Security. Then it dawned on me; I have the power to dictate my own swansong. I’ve been to a lot of funerals that were obviously part of a list of options the funeral home already has in place. It’s an awful time when you lose a loved one and it’s a lot easier to just choose package B, that comes with this price range coffin, this type of flowers, and one of the many soothing musical choices. It’s perfectly understandable that a family in this situation would take the easiest possible option, but what if you planned ahead? For one thing; no one at your funeral is under oath. I don’t plan to settle for a formulaic sermon from a minister I’ve never met. I plan to have a eulogy delivered by a minister who has never met me all right, because he’s going to be reading a eulogy written by me and it’s going to be chock full of lies. Mourners are going to walk out of that service with a whole new appreciation of me. They’ll stand around before heading to the graveside discussing how they had no idea I saved all those kids form that burning orphanage. What a surprise that a guy who talked about himself so much never once mentioned his Nobel Prize. How modest he was, they’ll say. “I had no idea he was a marine”, one would say. Another would mention my relentless efforts to eliminate homelessness. Sure, they could hear a true eulogy, which would amount to saying; “He was married for a really long time, and is not leaving his wife with crushing debt because he didn’t plan his funeral.” Oh, and don’t think for one second I won’t be making an appearance. I might not look like George Clooney now, but I’m sure I look better than I’m going to look just before I have my very disappointing visit to the Pearly Gates. Lately I’ve been thinking about going ahead and shooting my final farewells. I just won’t mention anyone by name because there’s no telling who is going to idiot themselves right out of my final farewell between now and then. Then comes the really fun part; the visit to the graveside. People might not remember my tearful goodbye or the minister’s stirring description of my many heroic deeds, but that tombstone is going to be there until the dinosaurs come back and you’d better believe it’s going to be big, have my face carved into it, and have a long list of the lies I made that poor minister read. And the last demographic? It’s just 65+. Anything over 65 is apparently considered bonus time.
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April
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his wonderful picture of young dancers all decked out in their tutus, ballet slippers and holding floral-festooned hoops, is part of the Nadia Price Collection at The Memphis Public Library and Information Center. Although we don’t know much about this particular photograph, we do know that Ms. Price was a premiere photographer in Memphis from the mid 1940s though the early 1970s. Memphians “of a certain age” will certainly remember her studio, Photography by Nadia, located on South Cooper Street. We welcome comments and/or information about this photograph, which is #84 in the Price Collection and simply titled “1958 Festival Garland Dance.” Photo courtesy of the Nadia Price Collection If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Emily Adams Keplinger at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
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April 2018