Memphis in May Gala
Crown & Sceptre Ball
Gift of Life Gala
195 W. Chickasaw Parkway
60 Whitehall Court
1130 W Old Hearthstone Circle
Memphis, TN 38111
Eads, TN 38028
Collierville, TN 38017
$695,000
$582,500
$525,000
5Br, 4 bath on 2 acres, You will feel the relaxing ambiance the second you come into the elegant almost English countryside. Built with excellence in quality & amenities! Custom details throughout 6 zone irrigation system for your 2 acres of bliss. Come to Eads, close but not that close to all your needs for city living in a country setting with a secluded feeling. offered by Coldwell Banker, Patty Everitt, CRS.
This Custom Built in the prestigious Hearthstone Community of Estanaula Trails. All the expected details you would find in a Coldwell Banker Luxury Property, such as the balcony overlooking the expansive hearth room, the relaxing sounds of the waterfall cascading into the 48 ft pool, the luxurious master suite with coffee bar in the salon style bath on the main level. You will also find a professional kitchen highlighted by a 5-burner gas cooktop. Smart home ready with a dedicated computer room wired for servers and mesh-networking.
You are going to love this incredible, updated 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath Chickasaw Gardens home! 2 bedroom, 2.5 baths down and study down, master bedroom up and down. All bedrooms have private bath. Open kitchen to keeping room. Gated for security. Check out YouTube video! Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Bill Maury 901.751.4311 maury@ collins-maury.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Patty Everitt 901.487.7709 peveritt@ collins-maury.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Jason Gaia 901.338.6677 jason@jasongaiateam.com
5404 N. Clover Drive
9784 W. Laurel Hollow Lane
Spring Creek Ranch
Memphis, TN 38120
Collierville, TN 38139
Collierville, TN 38017
$999,900
$575,000
$550,000-$650,000
COMING SOON! Gorgeous 2006 Custom built home on one of the best lots in East Memphis! Distinctive architecture with fabulous open floor plan! 5 Bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths, office, Hearth room, huge expandable and playroom. Upscale kitchen with spacious island, top of the line appliances, granite, marble etc. Irrigation system, professionally landscaped, exposed beams, stacked stone fireplace in hearth room with cathedral ceilings. 2 bedrooms downstairs including luxury master suite. Extensive custom millwork and built-ins throughout. Unbelievable closets and storage. Just under an acre level lot on most private location in Subdivision. This is truly an exceptional home!
COMING SOON! Exquisite Showplace! Gorgeous custom home in The Laurels! Over 4000 sq. ft. of impressive quality and amenities! 3 or 4 bedrooms, luxury master down and 3 or 4 living areas! Incredible outdoor space by Gurleys including pond/waterfall! Chef ’s kitchen with Viking Professional and Bosch appliances. 3 car garage. FABULOUS! Call Sally for more info.
Featuring new custom homes in Spring Creek Ranch: Collierville Reserve. Just minutes from the Collierville City Limits ; County Taxes only; New Homes $550,000-$650,000
Sally Isom
Sally Isom
901.219.8882 isom@collins-maury.com
901.219.8882 isom@collins-maury.com
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
CONTENTS
Features
July 2018
Signature Memphis • 13
StreetSeen • 14
Herb O’Mell
Laurie Smith
President of Herb O’Mell Productions
A Woman of Design Inspiration
StreetSeen • 18
RSVPhillippi • 49
Lydia Frank
Dennis Phillippi
From Hobby to Heirlooms
Give the Baby His Blankey
Events
Roger and Cathy Sapp
Tiffany Brimhall and Patti Russell
Memphis Moments • 16, 17, 28, 29, 34, 35, 40, 42, 44 & 46
Carnival Memphis • 20 Crown & Sceptre Ball
Cover Photo Kim and Johnny Pitts at Carnival Memphis' Crown & Sceptre Ball Photo by Don Perry
Table of Contents Photo
4
Sharon and Tracy Miller
Bailey and Ryan Deady
Memphis in May • 30
Gift of Life Gala • 36
2018 International Gala
Benefiting the National Kidney Foundation
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July 2018
Photo by Roy Haithcock
JOSEPH RIBKOFF TRUNK SHOW
JULY 26
GERMANTOWN COLLECTION / 7820 POPLAR AVE #3 / GERMANTOWN TN 38138 / 901.754.0018
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10-5
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.
Please help us find our forever home
RSVP Staff Volume XXIIII • Number VI
July 2018 Publisher Roy Haithcock
Chris Pugh
Account Executive
Willow
Casey
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.
Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Virginia M. Davis Dennis Phillippi Gaye Swan Art Director Kim Coleman Photographers Don Perry Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Carter Davis 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:
Punkin
Meesha Glo
Harlem
Carter Davis
Account Executive
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.
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:
Jackie
Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Kim Coleman
Henry & Melvyn Finn 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.
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RSVP Memphis Magazine
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.
Copyright 2018 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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2015 Jaguar XJ 26k miles, Status Grey Metallic, Saddle, $37,850
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From the Editor
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July
W
934 TOSCANA PARK CT
$635,000
4 BR/4 BA in a private gated community located off Park Ave. between Perkins and Cherry.
105 HOLLYOKE LANE
$750,000
4 BR/4 BA in the Pidgeon Estates subdivision
e’ve all heard the saying, “Memphis is Music.” Well, this summer there are more ways than ever to enjoy homegrown talent, as well as regional and national bands, so map your own musical tour. If you want to start at a place that is synonymous with music, head to Beale Street and play tourist in your own town. Places like B.B. King's Blues Club, Blues City Café, Hard Rock Café, Rum Boogie Café, and Tin Roof serve up Memphis-style food and musical talent every night of the week. The eclectic neighborhood of Cooper-Young offers newer venues, like Bar DKDC, which hosts live music on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays and Railgarten which has live music Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and Sundays afternoons. There’s live music happening almost every night in Overton Square, too, at places such as Bayou Bar & Grill, Blue Monkey, Huey’s, Indian Pass Raw Bar, Lafayette’s Music Room and the Zebra Lounge. Several additions to the Downtown scene include Dirty Crow Inn (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights), Sunrise Memphis (weekends on their outdoor patio, weather permitting), and Carolina Watershed (Thursdays offer a Memphis Songwriters Night/Open Mike; Saturdays, Acoustic Night, and more live entertainment on Sundays, 6 - 9:30 p.m. each night). Also check out Central BBQ (Saturdays and Sundays, afternoons). A perennial favorite can be found in the heart of Overton Park at the Levitt Shell. Free concerts take place almost every Thursday-Sunday, 7:30 10 p.m. Confirm performances at https://www.levittshell.org. The Live at the Garden annual concert series at Memphis Botanic Garden, now in its 18th year, continues to offer big name talent with Boy George & Culture Club with The B-52s, Gladys Knight, and Big & Rich in this year’s lineup. Lawn seating encourages blankets or chairs and coolers are welcomed. Confirm dates and times at https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com. For over two decades the Mud Island Amphitheater has been drawing folks to the river to enjoy music under the stars. Alison Krauss will bring her brand of bluegrass/Americana to this venue this month. Details can be found at http://www.mudislandamphitheater.com. And you can get your groove on as The Peabody hosts its Rooftop Parties on Thursday nights through August 16. These see-and-be-seen parties are hosted by Nugget from Q107.5 FM and DJ Epic, and feature live entertainment, too. Other options include shows at The FedExForum, Minglewood Hall and The Orpheum. And mark your calendars for the 30th annual WEVL Blues on the Bluff, July 21. This event will take place at the National Ornamental Metal Museum, celebrating another year of amazing Memphis music. Let’s support Memphis Music!
David Tester
Co-Owner/Broker, Marx-Bensdorf, REALTORS Life Member Multi-Million Dollar Club Memphis Area Association of Realtors
office: 901-682-1868 ext. 324 mobile w/ text: 901-351-3439 10
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July 2018
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
FRAN BARNETT
BARBARA DUFOUR
JO LYN BEAVER
CATHLEEN BLACK
SHARON CARRIE TURNERANDERSON
MEG MARGARET ESCUE
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BURKE
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CATHLEEN BLACK
RIP KATIE HANEY
NICHOLS COOK
SUE BONNER
BARBARA
MARGARET OWNER BURKE
OWNER BRONZE
JIM JIM BLACK BLACK
ALEESA DAVID BLUM OKEON
JIMMYASHLEY REEDBONDS
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ELIZABETH WEBSTER
LINDA
PAULA SANSOM
MYRA SHEDDAN
MARTHA KAPLAN SHIPP
LAURENCE KENNER
Relocation
OWNER
JAKE OWNER LAWHEAD
TRACY LOMBARDO
JIM BLACK
EILEEN CHERNY
DAVID OKEON
Need help Job for yo
MINDY OKEON Special ne of Marx & MATTINGLY
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DAVID TESTER OWNER
Explore our firm and the market at www.marx-bensdorf.com 5860 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 100 Memphis, Tennessee 38120 • 901-682-1868
LAUREN HARKINS WIUFF
2018 MAAR President
EILEEN CHERNY
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1706841
AVOID THE HASSLE OF A JUMBO LOAN WITH A CONVENTIONAL LOAN UP TO $679,650 12
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State Farm, Bloomington, IL
July
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Signature Memphis
Herb O’Mell President of Herb O’Mell Productions Hometown: Memphis, Tennessee Favorite Song: “Because Of You” by Tony Bennett Your Lucky Charm: My wife, Laura O’Mell Your Best Quality: Friendliness A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite Dinner: Steve Jobs
to
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Music — The Memphis Sound Favorite Place
to
Travel: Monte Carlo
Best Memphis Hangout: Ciao Bella First Car You Owned: A black, two-door 1941 Oldsmobile that I bought in 1951
Place You Go
to
Think: My front porch
Best Advice You Ever Got: There’s not a right way to do a wrong thing. Your Most Annoying Habit: Biting my finger nails The Highlight
of
call it “Cafe Poplar”
Your Day: Sitting on our front porch with my wife, we
Proudest Moment
of
Your Life: The days my two sons, Brandon O’Mell
and Michael O’Mell, were born and the day my grandson, John William O’Mell, was born
Who Would Play You
in a
Movie: Matt Damon
Something You’ll Never Live Down: I said, “ Thanks, but no thanks”
when Elvis Presley invited me to go with him as his guest to his 1973 TV special, Aloha From Hawaii. to
Accomplish: More grandchildren Photo by Steve Roberts
One Goal You’d Still Like
This is a memorial tribute to our friend, Herb O’Mell (August 3, 1935 - June 12, 2018).
July 2018
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by James Patterson Photography and Mary Kate Steele Photography
LAURIE SMITH
A Woman of Design Inspiration
July
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StreetSeen
L
aurie Smith was one of the first designers to hit the airwaves on TLC’s (The Learning Channel) home design hit show Trading Spaces in 1999. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Smith came to Memphis by way of several other cities (Miami, Houston, El Paso — just to name a few). Her creative streak bubbled to the surface when she was a young child, beginning with an interest in theater and dance. “Growing up, theater was a love of mine,” recalled Smith. “I also enjoyed writing and ultimately majored in journalism, with a minor in art history. I spent a semester in Italy as part of a summer program and realized that I had a passion for art, architecture, color and composition.” Smith returned to Atlanta after college when she accepted a position with CNN. That’s when Smith met Heather Dewberry-Stoller who helped steer Smith towards a career that would combine all her passions — interior design. “I was working as a Turner Home Entertainment writer and became best friends with Heather, who was an interior designer. Often I would shadow her on weekends, and she gave me my introduction to the world of interior design. She also introduced me to Dan Carithers, one of the country’s leading design talents. He encouraged me to go to design school. But first, he suggested that I test the waters by taking three specific classes; color theory, drafting and spatial planning. And, if I liked those classes, then I needed to put together a portfolio and apply to design school.” Smith heeded the advice and took night classes at the Atlanta Art Institute; subsequently,
she enrolled in the New York School of Interior Design. “I’d always dreamed about being in Manhattan,” said Smith. “I moved there when I was 26, completed the program and then worked for an architecture firm.” Matrimony led her down the path back to Jackson, MS. “Within a few weeks of being in Jackson, I was working for a local designer when I received a call from Heather,” said Smith. “She said a production company out of Knoxville had bought the rights to a British show called “Changing Rooms” and was hiring to launch the American version (Trading Spaces) on TLC — and that she had recommended me. In a strange twist of fate, I was well familiar with the British show because one of my friends at design school was from London and every week her mother sent us a VHS tape of the show to watch.” The production company was impressed with Smith’s background in broadcasting, theater and design. They called her to audition and quickly surmised that she was a fantastic fit. They shot the pilot and the first episode on the spot. Smith was a designer for the first run, which lasted eight years and garnered multiple
Emmy nominations, working as part of a team that remade a space in just 48 hours. Smith was also in the public’s eye through numerous articles in House Beautiful, House & Garden, Metropolitan Home, Better Homes and Gardens, Southern Living, Woman’s Day, Guidepost, O Magazine, People and Parade. Also, she appeared on The View and decorated Katie Couric’s office on The Today Show. “Additionally, I had the opportunity to have my first book, ‘Discovering Home – Find Your Personal Style,’ published,” explained Smith. When the show went off the air in 2008, Smith stayed home with her young children to be a full-time mother. However, she kept her hands busy with design work, developing a lighting line with the Charleston manufacturer Quoizel Lighting and a line of textiles sold exclusively through Hancock Fabrics. Then in 2017, after a 10-year absence, it was announced that Trading Spaces would be back on the air and Smith returned to the show. The new season aired this past spring with eight episodes and has been renewed for a second season. What’s next for Smith? Currently, she enjoys traveling on the lecture circuit — stay tuned for further details.
July 2018
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Memphis Moment
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July
ADS Trivia Night Alzheimer’s & Dementia Services of Memphisl
T
emple Israel opened its doors for the 13th annual ADS Trivia Night. After perusing and bidding on items available in the silent auction and participating in a wine pull, guests enjoyed a delicious buffet from Hog Wild Bar-B-Q. The popular dessert bar featured “Better than Sex” Cake, Car Bomb Cake, Caramel Praline Cake and much more. After dinner the trivia game began. Each table competed to correctly answer 10 rounds of 10 questions on topics ranging from science to literature. The theme was “Are You Smarter Than a 6th Grader?” Rob Grayson was the emcee, and Brother Ignatius Brown celebrated his 13th and final evening as the ADS Trivia Night Quizmaster. “This is our largest fundraiser at ADS,” said Development Director Stacey Sears. “It helps support our therapeutic adult day program, including Tai Chi, music and art.” Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Rick and Karen Anderson
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Judy Davis and Stacey Sears
Lily, Eric and Eli Cloud
Staci, Ceylon and Jack Blackwell
Brad Hyde, Lynn Doyle and Lori Kent
Julie Repking, Paul Martin, Josh Goldin and Judy Hall
Fedricka Hobbs and Dan Rojcewicz
Ruthann and Hank Shelton
July
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Memphis Moment
Ave Maria Silent Auction and Concert Giving for Living Life to the Fullest
A
Mark and Diana Billingsley with Steve Dunavant
Ricky Bursi and Greg Voehringer
ve Maria presented its 17th annual Silent Auction and Concert in Christian Brothers High School’s Heffernan Hall. Emceeing the event was WMC-TV chief meteorologist Ron Childers, who doubled as chief auctioneer during a live auction following the dinner buffet and silent auction. As he warmed up the crowd, Childers explained just how easy it was to place a bid. “All you have to do is raise your hand,” he coaxed. In the end, guests did his bidding and opened their purses and billfolds wide. A performance by Bryan Hayes and The Retrievers capped the evening. Proceeds will provide assistance for Ave Maria residents and help fund a variety of resident programs and activities. Story and Photos by Virginia M. Davis
Richard Green, Mark Dietrich, LaNelle Green and Patty Dietrich
Pam Graves, Felicia Bursi, Julie Cochran and Claire Chamoun
Mary Louise Chitwood with Michael and Ann Marie Paccasassi and Phyllis Brandon
Reba Sparks and Frank Dominioni
Valerie Harris and Julie Trayal
Lauren and Philip Albertine
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
LYDIA FRANK From Hobby to Heirlooms
July
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ydia Frank claims Memphis as home. She moved here with her family as an infant after her father accepted a position at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Throughout her school years at Snowden Elementary and Immaculate Conception Cathedral School she displayed a strong creative streak and enjoyed sewing, smocking and crafts. After graduating from Vanderbilt, Lydia married her husband, Erik, and returned to Memphis. They had three children (Louis, Walter and Mary Margaret) and settled into a comfortable lifestyle in East Memphis. It was when the family moved to England for a two-year assignment that Lydia’s life took a different turn. “In 2008, my family and I moved to a little town called Virginia Water, just outside of London,” recalled Lydia. “My husband worked for Dun & Bradstreet and went to England to manage their overseas offices. Ultimately that adventure gave me two years ‘to play’ and I began collecting bits and pieces of antiques items like watch chains, shoe buckles and jewelry as a hobby. It was a perfect location to be able to scout antique fairs, flea markets and estates sales.” Lydia continued, “I have a love for old things. I appreciate that someone has spent time handcrafting pieces, versus today’s mass-produced products. Even if an item was broken, I wondered about its past. Feeling that these things still had meaning, I was drawn to try to put them to use again.” After two years of gathering and collecting items, Lydia and her family returned to Memphis. But Lydia said it wasn’t just the items that were significant. “The most important things I returned with were my acquired contacts,” explained Lydia. “In fact, I still do most of my shopping with estate brokers, either domestically or abroad.” Since returning to Memphis, Lydia has become a self-taught jewelry artist. Her
company, Pindi House, is named after the residence where her family stayed in England. She perfected soldering through practice and has developed quite a following for her vintage-inspired collection of bracelets and necklaces. Lydia’s pieces are unique due to the oneof-a-kind items she uses, but they also stand out because she brings some contemporary elements into play to connect with the Old World feel of her jewelry. “I try to find a new use for old items, but keep them from feeling stuffy,” said Lydia. “Beautiful brooches, which may not be as fashionable now as they once were, are incorporated into necklaces, giving them a new wearability.
Shoe buckles are another item that women don’t usually wear now, but I refashion them into bracelets and necklaces that can be worn everyday. Each piece has a story — who has owned it, why they’ve held on to it, etc. People bring their own pieces for me to rework into something they can enjoy.” As for the future, Lydia said there are several exciting developments on the near horizon. “I’m opening an online store, The Pindi House Jewelry (www.pindihouse.com), this month,” said Lydia. “And for the month of September, I will have a pop-up shop in New York City, at the corner of 46th and Lexington in the Roger Smith Hotel. After that I expect to stay busy with my regular inventory and the custom work I do for the holidays. I love what I’ve learned, but truly what is so wonderful and so humbling are the new friendships I’ve made, which were completely unexpected at this point in my life. And, I’m always excited to see other people enjoy my pieces and know that those things have renewed meaning. For me, that’s how heirlooms are created.” Follow Lydia on her website (pindihouse.com), Facebook (thepindihouse), Instragram (pindihousejewlery), or Twitter (pindihousejewlery).
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Carnival Memphis
July
Carnival Memphis
T
Floy and Jeff Cole
Todd, Mary Allen and Crocker Wallace
Crown & Sceptre Ball
The start of the 2018 Carnival Week commenced as Carnival Memphis celebrated its 87th anniversary with the Crown & Sceptre Ball. The event was held at the Hilton Memphis and included all of the grand traditions of pomp and pageantry expected from this white tie ball. Although each of the Grand Krewes had already held their separate coronations for their kings and queens and royal courts, the Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball is the occasion when the King and Queen of Carnival are formally presented and ascend their thrones. Ginger Collier, 2018 President of Carnival, (the first woman to hold this title) welcomed the crowd as Carnival Memphis honored the Fashion Apparel Industry. Collier explained, “Each year we celebrate a different business industry. Additionally, each year we raise money for three children’s charities. This year our beneficiaries were Agape Children’s & Family Services, The Emmanuel Center, and Memphis Athletic Ministries.” As the coronation ceremonies began, King of Carnival, James Brinkley Taylor, Jr., escorted Queen Ellen Lane Horn to their respective thrones. Taylor connects to the fashion industry, as his wife, Mimi, and daughter, Semmes Humphreys, are co-owners of The Pink Door, a Lilly Pulitzer signature shop in East Memphis. His family is deeply rooted in Memphis history, including his See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
great-great-grandfather, Robert Campbell Brinkley, who built the original Peabody Hotel, and Taylor has been active in Carnival Memphis since 1995. Ellen also continued her family’s tradition of participating in and supporting Carnival Memphis. Her grandfather, Ralph Horn, served as King of Carnival in 2002, and her aunt Maggie was Queen of Carnival in 2007. Ellen began her own ties to Carnival as a Royal Page and later as a Court Princess. She recently graduated from The University of Tennessee - Knoxville. The Carnival Royal Pages followed next in the procession, along with members of the Loyal Order of Scarabs, a group of young men who serve as the Royal Guard for the King and Queen of Carnival. Next the “fairest ladies of the land,” the princesses of Carnival, were presented and escorted to the front of the room, followed by the Ladies of the Realm. This year’s royal court consisted of 30 young women, all rising college sophomores, from across Memphis and the Mid-South. As the coronation festivities continued, royalty from each of the Grand Krewes were presented before the King and Queen. The Boll Weevils, wearing their unique costumes of green, concluded the procession. As the evening progressed, The Jimmy Church Revue provided musical entertainment that brought people back to their feet to dance the night away.
Nancy and Jim Brooks
Jim and Christina Roberts
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Dabney and Ginger Collier
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Anne and Kemp Conrad
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Lana and Cy Holmes
Kelly Jo and Mitch Graves with Jim and Mimi Taylor
July 2018
Nayla and George Nassar
Carnival Memphis •
July
Elizabeth Cole and Paige Patteson
Joey, Charlie and Amy Dudek
Hugh and Laurie Armistead
Leslie and John Daniel
Corey and Mary Trotz
Natalie and Michael Davis
Jennie Robbins and Beth Buffington
Meredith White and Roddey Player with Victoria and Steve White
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July 2018
John Barton and Caroline Farrell
Sam Zalowitz and Leslie Darr
Gina Webb, Janette Krauch and Cindy Gambrell
July
Liz and Tom Baker
Jennifer Anderson and Melissa McEniry
Ivan Rich and Liz Monaghan
Sam Bomarito and Kat Scoggin
Earl and Hope Cook
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Carnival Memphis
Don Dodson and Carol Wasielewski
Mike Nussbaum and Susan Angel
Amy and George Gates
Lori Wyckoff, Selden Humphreys, Lara Scott, Traci Hamersen and M.L. Weber
Joe Lopresti and Patricia Ramage
Sandra Lucchesi, Dodie Hunter, Joyce Nussbaum, Gloria Campbell and Sharon Fewell
July 2018
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Carnival Memphis
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July
Keith and Donna Renard
Stuart Collier and Maxwell Greenbaum
Greg Sones with Lauran and Jack Stimac
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July 2018
Margaret Loftin and Kevin Collins
Pat and Ron Solberg
Barry and Debbie Marshall
Sharon and Connor Truitt
July
Tracy and Jim Alexander
Sarah Yandell and Zea Taggart
B.J.Gullett and John Barzizza
Lillie Kay Mitchell and Albert Markle
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Carnival Memphis
Patti Russell, Susan Jones and Cheryl Pennock
Karen and Kirk Johnston
Donna Melton and Ed Galfsky
July 2018
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Benny Carter
Fontaine Brown
Steve Bearman
Jeanne Arthur
Managing Broker
Tommie Criswell
EAST ME
crye-leike.com
Didi Dwyer
Loura Edmondson
1938 Laurel Lane $442,000 Clara Yerger 901-834-0099
4031 Baronne Way #81 $594,000 Jeanne Arthur 901-634-2800
4050 Baronne Way #34 $399,000 Nick French 901-356-2810 Clara Yerger 901-834-0099
800 Sanga Creek Road $379,000 Jeanne Nixon 901-550-2482 Mike Ward 901-277-3869
Janie Hopkins
Barb Frazer
Nick French
Jan Gordon
Walker Hays
Trey Hogue
Sylvia Joure
585 South Perk
EMPHIS
m | 901.766.9004
Camille Zanone
Clara Yerger
Candy Uhlhorn
Michael Varner
Carol K. Stout
Blake Sternberger
35 Ralpop Lane East $350,000 Tommie Criswell 901-230-7653
9045 Winston Woods Circle North $975,000 Candy Uhlhorn 901-786-8356
Martha Robertson
Suzanne Plyler
SOLD 318 Angelwood Circle West $769,000 Trey Hogue 901-652-3644
kins, Memphis, TN 38117
1461 Horseshoe Circle $397,000 Jeanne Arthur 901-634-2800
Joy Kimbrough
Nan Lee
Jim Pascover
Toni Martello
Jeanne Nixon
Memphis Moment
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AIA Awards American Institute of Architects annual gala
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he Memphis chapter of American Institute of Architects (AIA) held its annual gala at the stunning new Ballet Memphis in Overton Square. The elegant event was catered by CFY Catering, who served up a delectable selection of hors d’oeuvres. A silent auction featured framed design work and sculptures donated by the University of Memphis Department of Architecture, jewelry, calligraphy and photography. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of eleven design awards to local architectural firms. Taking several honors was the renovation work done on the Crosstown Concourse. archimania led the field with 6 awards. Other winners were Looney Ricks Kiss, brg3s, Self & Tucker and Pat Kelley Magruder, Jr. Story by Ruth Cassin and Photos by Roy Haithcock Matt Barnett and Alexa Alcala
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Jason Schroder and April Wise
Phil and Terry Woodward
Robert Bryant and Cindy Mallard
Gary and Dr. Kimberly Whittam
Jeff Eakes and Ron Spurlin
Barbara and Frank Ricks
Krissie and Scott Mahr
Taylor and Blake Tyler
Ashley and Evan Morrison
Sonia Raheel and Nestor Lobus
Lauren Ricks and Caleb Sears
Parker Joyner and Megan Weinstein
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July 2018
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Memphis Area Master Gardeners Annual Spring Fling
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LeAnn Drewry, Lou Housholder and Cathy Bellehumeur
emphis Area Master Gardeners showed off their “plant power” at their annual Spring Fling Garden Show and Plant Sale. The event was held at the Big Red Barn at the Agricenter and featured bargain prices on plants, tabletop gardens ready to add a little green to home decors and gardenready plants sure to beautify shoppers’ yards. Speakers and demonstrations offered advice about selecting trees, growing vegetable gardens and starting gardens from seed. A photography exhibition provided plenty of inspiration and stacks upon stacks of used garden magazines and books gave their own lessons in being green with thoughtful recycling of useful written materials. There was even a mini flea market called “Garden Jumble” that offered gently used garden tools, implements and art. Memphis Area Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who help the local Extension Service share gardening information with the community. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund the Master Gardener program. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Blann Britton, Sarah Richardson and Bill Dickerson
Cathy Laughlin and Beverly Radford
Jessica Rando and Sarah Burns
Donna Pretto and Carol Austein
Peggy and Bob Dowdie
Laura Edwards and Carol Watkins
Daniela Jacobo and Andrea Jacobo
Kandi Reilly, Annie Pomeroy and Pat Brawley
Olivia Vitter and Teresa White
July 2018
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Memphis in May
July
Memphis in May
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Tiffany Collins and Berlin Boyd
Jacek and Halina Dutkiewicz
2018 International Gala
uests filled The Skyway of The Peabody for the 2018 International Gala of Memphis in May. A silent auction served as a fundraiser for the Memphis in May International Festival, which was celebrating its 42nd anniversary. As a tribute to this year’s honored country, The Czech Republic, libations and food were Czech-themed. For the seated dinner, guests dined on an appetizer of Vlassky Salat, a traditional spread of fermented cabbage in a tomato wrap, with baby frisee and garlic cream. An entree of braised short ribs “Czech Republic Gulasch Style” featured braised beef with paprika, onions and tomatoes served with bread dumplings and pickled vegetables. Dessert was Bublanina, a Czech Bubble cake with seasonal berries, sauce Anglaise and vanilla-infused whipped cream. Wines Chateau Valtice “Vino z Czech” Rivaner 2016 and Templar Cellars Pinot Noir 2013 were served at the table. Jim Holt, MIM President and CEO, welcomed the crowd and introduced Kristen Wright, 2018 Chairman of the MIM Board of Directors. Wright thanked Holt and the MIM staff, and recognized International Gala chairwoman Leigh Shockey for organizing the gala. Wright also thanked her parents for enabling her to travel abroad during her youth, which she credited for establishing her
life-long love of travel. Wright introduced Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell and City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland, who both addressed the crowd. Mayor Strickland shared that CNN had selected Memphis as the #1 city, in the world, to visit during May. And he told of the $111 million economic impact the festival has on the city. Next, honored guest His Excellency Hynek Kmonicek, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the United States, was introduced and expressed gratitude on behalf of his country for being this year’s MIM honored country. The celebration coincided with the 100th anniversary of The Czech Republic’s independence. Wright presented Ambassador Kmonicek with a Memphis in May limited edition commemorative plaque crafted by local artist Stephen Hudson. The hand-painted piece included components that celebrated the City of Memphis, highlighting Memphis music and Memphis barbecue. After dinner, hometown favorite Booker T. Jones and his band took the stage. They performed many of the hits that propelled Memphis music to world-wide fame. Tunes included “Dock of the Bay,’ “Knock on Wood,” “Soul Man,” “Mr. Big Stuff” and the instrumental rock and soul classic, “Green Onions.”
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Brad and Dianne Champlin
Tracy Chism and Kathleen Glass Burk
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Sally and Lyman Aldrich
Mayor Jim and Melyne Strickland
Leigh Shockey and Pat Tigrett
Mayor Mark and Pat Luttrell with Beth Flanagan and Tim Maxwell
Karen Carlisle and Doug Windham
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Veronica and Brett Batterson
Karen and Richard Coleman
Joan and Edward Collier
Greg and Brenda Shelton
Ty and Tamera Boyland
Calvin and Belinda Anderson
Memphis in May
Eric and Lauren Brookman
Karen Foley and Eldridge Thompson
Brooke Tweddell and Jim Holt
Kim and Maurice Denbow
Kristen Wrright, Ambassador Hynek Kmonicek and Indira Gumarova
July 2018
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Memphis in May
July
Judy and Jim Baker
Evan Diener and Erin Marbut
Doug Browne and Katie Gore
Ashley and Leah Monney
Shanea and David McKinney
Paula Basek with Tim and Melanie Brahm
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Ashley and Jason Lewin
Ron Coleman and Janice Holder
Kevin and Candace Taylor
Faith Robinson Tolivar and Cynthia Smalls
Austin Baker and Kaci Murley with Lindsey and Nielsen Ferry
Memphis Moment
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Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival A Benefit for Porter-Leath
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ouisiana Bayou Country came upriver and settled in Downtown Memphis for the 26th annual Stinson’s Industrial Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival. The event was a benefit for Porter-Leath, a nonprofit organization which empowers at-risk children and families to achieve healthy, independent lifestyles. Memphis Second Line Jazz Band kicked off the event as festival-goers lined up for boiled crawfish and beer. Throughout the day live music performances included Black Oak Arkansas, Marcella + Her Lovers, FreeWorld, Under the Radar and the legendary Bar-Kays. There were games for all ages including crawfish bobbing, crawfish eating and crawfish racing, as well as arts and crafts vendors and a play area for kids. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee Community Trust Swamp tent was filled to capacity for a VIP experience and featured all-you-can-eat crawfish, along with other Cajun cuisine. Cash Saver sponsored a Louisiana Gumbo Cookoff with cash prizes. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister Kim Harlow with Daniel Ezell and Tammy Vann
Taylor Lee with Chris Martin and Chris Smith
Matthew and April Jackson
Justin Benjamin and Meghan Stuthard
Robert Williams, Brandy Allaire and Michael Martin
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Rachel Burkett with Kurt Carie and Bill Pope
Josh and Vicki Taylor
Alan Lusk with Linda Sandiford and Geoff Maynard
Holly Whitfield and Anthony Rautine
Mark and Misty West
Rick Williams and Drew Sampson with Cindy and Mike Brown
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Carnival Memphis 10th Annual Krewes for Kids
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nown for some of Memphis’ grandest parties, Carnival Memphis put the spotlight on the fact that there’s a greater purpose behind the pageantry as the organization and the Grand Krewes of Carnival presented this year’s Krewes for Kids party at Crosstown Concourse. Food, libations and music set the stage for the largest fundraiser the organization has ever had. “The Carnival Memphis Children’s Charity Initiative (CCI) was developed in 1999 to assist those who improve the quality of life for children throughout the community,” explained Ed Galfsky, Executive Director of Carnival Memphis. Each year different agencies are selected to receive funds raised by Carnival and the Grand Krewes of Carnival Memphis at fundraisers throughout the year. Since the inception of the CCI (a 501c3 non-profit), with matching funds, over $2,500,000 with matching funds has been donated to local children’s charities. The 2018 charities are Agape Child & Family Services, Inc., Emmanuel Center and Memphis Athletic Ministries.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Amanda and Justin Joy
Bryan and Leslie Darr with John Vincent
Muffy and Michael Turley with Nancy and Sonny Golden
Charlotte Bray and Heather Grosvenor
Chris and Colleen Canale
Martha Billions and Lauren Wiener
Heather Smith, Will Taylor and Loghan Smith
Kirk and Karen Johnston with Martha and Mike Hess
Drs. Chuck and Melanie Woodall
Whitney and Troy Tapp with Pierre and Gay Landaiche and Gretchen Klobucar
Michel Allen and Weetie Whittemore
July 2018
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Gift of Life Gala
July
Gift of Life Gala Benefiting the National Kidney Foundation
T Matt and Elizabeth Fike
Wesley Grace and Gina Deutsch
he 2018 Gift of Life Gala brought out hundreds of supporters of the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) for the organization’s annual fundraiser. The evening began as Mable Barringer, Executive Director of NKF, welcomed guests to a cocktail reception and silent auction in The Skyway at The Peabody. The crowd also spilled onto the hotel’s rooftop to take in the scenic river views at sunset. As dinner started, Board President Joanna Hudson and Gala Chairman Susan O. Smith welcomed the crowd. This year’s honorees, John T. Morris, MD, PC, Carole M. Headley, DNSC, ACNP-BC, RN, CNN, and Lisa Varner, LCSW, were recognized for their work promoting the awareness, prevention and treatment of kidney disease. Hudson called Dr. Morris to the stage and recognized him saying, “Dr. Morris grew up in Memphis and completed his medical training at the University of Tennessee. He has been in private practice in Memphis since 2001 and is currently an active staff member of Baptist Hospital and serves as the consulting Nephrologist for the Heart Transplant and Mechanical Circulatory Support team there. In addition to his office and hospital practice, Dr. Morris rounds at 11 outpatient dialysis clinics throughout the city. Additionally he has served as the medical director for the DaVita Memphis Southeast Dialysis center since September 2017.” Then Hudson recognized the next honoree, saying, “Dr. Headley received See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Dena and Glenn Frazier
Ericka and Dr. Daniel Tucker
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a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing from Samford University and a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Her initial work as a registered nurse was within the dialysis program, where she developed an enthusiasm for nephrology. After marrying and moving to Memphis with her husband, Dr. Arthur Stacey Headley, she resumed practice in the nephrology section at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She was accepted into the clinical doctorate program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Nursing and graduated with her doctorate degree in 2003. Dr. Headley has served on several committees and boards that have helped to shape the framework of nephrology policy and practice. In 2015, she received one of the highest honors given by the American Nephrology Nurses Association, being selected as the recipient of the Outstanding Contributions to the organization.” Hudson also recognized the final honoree, saying, “Lisa Varner is a native Memphian. She received her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and her master’s degree from Oklahoma University. She returned to Memphis and has worked for Youth Villages, Fresenius Medical Care, Renal Care Group and is now employed at DaVita Memphis Central. She has been a National Kidney Foundation volunteer for many years, helping with the NKF patient support group, the Kidney Walk and other NKF events.” Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Dr. Tyrone T. Davis, Natasha Williams, Sabrina Tiller Gladney and Dr. Nathan Lucas
Dr. Donna and Tom Hathaway
Chevida and Amos Raymond
Dr. Marc and Elaine Stegman
Corinna and Dr. Luis Campos
July
William and Marie Edgerton
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Kristi and Gary Jones
Janet McClora, Katie Carter, Brenda Warren and Bernetta Stephenson
Meryl Klein and Barbara Loevy
Leland and Erica Burress
Carol Kelly and Adrian Brown
Travis Kilgore and Xiuming Jin
July 2018
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Gift of Life Gala
July
Dr. Dianne Greenhill and Dr. Wendy Likes
Margaret and David Mugg
Laura and John Reed
Venciel and Hazel Marsh
Abhishek and Amik Sodhi
Arthur and Carol Headley with Dr. Dipen Kadarian
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July 2018
Kimberley Conley and Corteney Mack
Leon Edwards and Susie Suttle
Julie and Jamie Hill
Christy and Derreck Ocker
Candy Cannon with Ramona and Michael Symonanis
July
Martin and Cathy Pantik
Drs. Leon Bedwell and Kim Huch
Cody and Dawn Nelson
Kari Jarrell and John Perrine
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Shirley, Sharon, and Matthew Burress
Tina Rhinehart and Allison Swanson
Kim Barringer and Brittney Downs
July 2018
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Memphis Moment
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July
Southern Junkers Vintage Market
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he Agricenter International Expo Center teemed with vintage and antique items, as well as hand-crafted treasures, as Ruth Barnes brought together more than 85 vendors for her Southern Junkers Vintage Market. The two-day event began with an early shopping “Mimosa Breakfast,” with food catered by Me and My Tea Room. Food trucks Say Cheese, Millie’s Gardens, and Lenny’s Links and Drinks offered additional dining options. Musical entertainment was provided by Bailey Douglass, Grace Gordon, Merit Koch, Sophia Wade, as well as Billy Wilson and Larry Willis. Shoppers cruised aisle after aisle of charming displays, many featuring Farmhouse Chic style. Also, there were “meet & greet” sessions with Kim Leggett, owner and author of “City Farmhouse Style,” and Gale Brisa, owner of “Vignette It.” One-of-a-kind art and jewelry rounded out the offerings along with, as Barnes calls it, “a lot of really cool junk.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Mary Carpenter, Ruth Smith, Linda Moore and Kellie Moore
Ruth Barnes, Mamie Pike and Paula Davis
Debi Vincent and Rene Day
Lauren Conatser, Rachel Sellers and Brenda Huggins
Lori Young and Natalie Steele
Stephanie Pugh, Christi Pugh and John Mark Sharpe Jana Wilson and Temple Daniels
Katie Smith, Jennie Ciesliga and Anna Holland
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July 2018
Jennifer and Eddy Perry
Sherri James and Patty Guy
Memphis Moment
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July
St. George’s Episcopal Church 46th Anniversary Arcade
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crowd of discerning shoppers gathered at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Germantown for the Preview Party of the 46th annual Arcade. The event offered an elegant evening at the church’s Antique, Home and Garden Show. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts prepared by St. George’s parishioners and wine were served. The smooth sounds of The Bob Sunda Trio provided musical entertainment as guests moved from room to room to peruse and purchase vintage treasures ranging from antique oriental rugs to collectibles, estate jewelry and art. A silent auction added to the event’s coffers with a myriad of gift baskets up for bid, Also a tasting tour of Old Dominick Distillery, Kendra Scott Jewelry, and gift certificates for area restaurants, golf lessons and games of miniature golf were available to the highest bidders. This year’s event was cochaired by Charlotte Albertson and Tracy Patterson. Proceeds from The Arcade will benefit Church Health, Emmanuel Center, MIFA and Room in the Inn - Memphis. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Phyllis Camado, Claire Kiser and Lydia Frank
Charlotte Albertson, Robin Friend and Tracy Patterson
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Lucie Rutledge and Michelle Lynn
Keva Duckett and Kerri Campbill
Nancy and Charlie Kistler
Jimmy and Tempe Chancellor
Lindley Martens and Catherine Harris
Erick and Whitney Wings
Amanda Vogel and Jen Larkin
Ann Wright and Carol Iverson
Susan Pope and Ann Erickson
Harry and Joan Kravets
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July 2018
Memphis Moment
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July
Queen Bees Wine & Cheese Benefiting Carnival Memphis Charities
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heffield Antiques Mall was the setting for the annual The Royal Society of Queen Bees Wine & Cheese party and fundraiser. Guests enjoyed treats provided by the krewes of Carnival Memphis, as well as wine, beer and everpopular margaritas donated by Sheffield. Serenaded by pianist Richard Raichelson, attendees hunted for hidden Queen Bee cards to win door prizes. The Society was founded in 1998 as a support group for incoming krewe queens and to support the mission of Carnival Memphis. “During our 20th anniversary year, we are thankful to be welcomed back by our friends at Sheffield Antiques. With an increase in attendance, we are able to donate more money to the Carnival Children’s Charities, supporting Memphis Athletic Ministries, Agape Child and Family Services and The Emmanuel Center,” said event chair Tiffany Brimhall. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
David and Mace Gearhardt with Ginger and Dabney Collier
Kat and Oliver Scoggin with Natalie Swoboda Mary and Chuck Stewart
Sam and Beth Bomarito
Dot West and Carolyn Mayo Ally Luciano and Jan Connor
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July 2018
Donna Renard, DeAnne Gammon and Tiffany Brimhall
Jim and Mimi Taylor
Dottie Crihfield, Carol Wasielewski, Barbara Baker, Jean Oliver and Connie Spencer
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Phyllis and Travis Shelton
Jim and Mary Alice Royko with Sandra Lucchesi and Sarah Trouy
Pam Cain, Marion Marr, Marcy McConnell and Jazmine Harris
The Reverend Colenzio Hubbard, Angie Johnson and Ed Galfsky
Mike Honeycutt with Karen and John Davis
Memphis Moment
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Southern Hotwing Festival Something to Crow About
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he 16th annual Southern Hotwing Festival flew the coop to roost at Tiger Lane, at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on East Parkway. Originally started in the parking lot of the Poplar Lounge on Poplar Avenue, for the last four years The Southern Hotwing Festival had been held in Downtown Memphis at the Mississippi River Park (on Riverside Drive between Jefferson and Union Avenues). The 2018 event drew thousands of wing-loving fans as 60 teams competed for prize money and trophies. Smokin’ Gringos BBQ took home top bragging rights and New Wing Order came in second place. Festival founder Paul Gagliano said, “Overall, we viewed it as an opportunity to ‘spread our wings’ and grow our festival. To date the festival has raised approximately $225,000 for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Memphis.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Nathan Jones, Collins Fisher and Trenton Jones
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Ashley Simon, Emily King and Penne Cromeans
Megan McDaniel and Keith Pierce
Cordell and Tawanda Pirtle
Steve Willis and John Wallace
Mark and Terri Hefley
Wayne and Maria Lohman
Ron Childers and Ken Hall
Scotti Madison and Paul Gagliano
Maya Baker, Dominik Damm and Jackie Ragan
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July 2018
Crossword
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July
RSVP Crossword ACROSS
1 Apex 5 Underneath 10 Computer "button" 14 Dock 15 Swelling 16 De __ (from the beginning) 17 Strongly suggest 18 Not ever
Edited By Ruth Cassin
19 Part of the "KKK" 20 Excuse 22 Republic in NW Africa 24 Bullfight cheer 25 Sell at a high rate, as in tickets 27 Cinders 29 Architect Frank __ Wright 32 Finned mammal 35 British nobleman 38 Stitch 39 Knotty 40 Boxer Muhammad 41 Diplomatic assistant 43 When repeated, Olympic chant 44 Backs 46 River, in Barcelona 47 Prayer ending 48 Hoist 49 New Madrid ____ 51 Musical "slow" 54 Lazes about 57 Beatles hit And I Love ___ 59 Get up 62 Egg-shaped 64 Capital of Western Samoa 66 Lamenting poetry 68 Press 69 Oracle 70 Eagle's nest 71 Missile type 72 Mouse or ant, i.e. 73 Braid 74 NYC baseball team
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DOWN 1 Peacock blue 2 Ringlets 3 Extraordinary power 4 Peeper 5 TV lawyer Matlock 6 Adam's garden 7 Jacob's son 8 Alpha's opposite 9 Goods 10 Writing liquid 11 Birth milk 12 Ellipsoidal 13 Not any 21 Sick 23 European river 26 Fence supports 28 Terminal abbr. 30 Still 31 Diminuiitive 33 Otherwise 34 Baseball's Nolan 35 Every 36 Healing plant 37 Duke vs North Carolina, i.e. 39 Zombie 41 Rock concert venue 42 Mike Pompeo is its director 45 Adam's wife
47 Characteristic traits from old ancestor 50 Lavatory 52 Foot the bill 53 Edmonton NHL player 55 Improbable drama 56 Portly 57 Fastener 58 Dueling sword 60 Arid 61 Patronage 63 Wraps up 65 Comic Carney 67 Affirmative
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RSVPhillippi
LET THE BABY HAVE HIS BLANKEY July
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t was recently announced that the Chinese city of Xi’an has opened a “zombie By Dennis Phillippi pedestrian” lane for people walking and staring at their smart phone. It’s come to this. Instead of rightly ostracizing obnoxious people who can’t be bothered to be the slightest bit courteous, they are being rewarded with their own walking lane where they can continue to disconnect from the world around them. At first this pandering genuinely outraged me. The idea of catering to individuals that would rather stroll out in front of a car than stop looking at social media struck me as appalling. Then I realized something, maybe making anti-social behavior easier will make the rest of our lives simpler. We’re not really a walking city, but in places like New York and New Orleans, idiots shambling along at half speed because they’re expecting a vitally important tweet any second are a real problem. When there are several hundred people on the same sidewalk there are unspoken agreements about behavior, and one of them is that everyone should try to move at around the same speed or get out of the way. Imbeciles texting with their buddy in Colorado tend to ignore this social compact. So why not give these jugheads their own lane? It gets them out of our way, and that’s a good thing. If only it were possible to do the same thing for the half-wits that stare at their phones while they’re driving. I can’t condemn anyone for talking on their phone while behind the wheel, mainly because I’m just as guilty as the next person of doing it. When I talk on my phone while driving it is beside my head, not in front of it. Going 80 mph on the expressway with your head inclined at a 45 degree angle, focused entirely on your favorite fake news site is a quick ticket to rear-ending someone that very well might be armed. If they could be relied upon to actually use it, I wouldn’t be opposed to giving them their own lane. Maybe it could have barriers like those pop-up ones that make it possible for a four-year-old to bowl. Sure, they’d probably bang through it like bumper boats, but that’s their problem. The important thing is to get these simpletons away from those of us who would like to arrive at our destination alive. Making it easier and, preferably, isolated, might make all kinds of irritating behavior more tolerable. Wouldn’t it be great if bars had
Wouldn’t it be great if bars had a Plexiglas enclosure for people who lose volume control when they drink? It would be lovely to be able to see them shouting at one another without having to hear their opinions on sports, politics, and race. a Plexiglas enclosure for people who lose volume control when they drink? It would be lovely to be able to see them shouting at one another without having to hear their opinions on sports, politics, and race. The woman who develops a voice that could cut glass after a few chardonnays would no longer be a source of misery for everyone around her. The guy with the sunglasses on the back of his neck who starts bellowing about the government once he’s downed his second well whiskey would be put on mute for those of us who prefer to drink in relative quiet. Let’s go ahead and put in a line at airport security for the people who are going to complain
non-stop about airport security. If you put having to take off your shoes above the possibility of being exploded, please get in the line to the left, the one that has a sound-proofed tunnel. We’re awfully sorry that you didn’t build in enough time to go through an X-ray machine in order to make your flight, but that doesn’t mean I want to hear you kvetching about it. While we’re at it; hey lady who has a bunch of coupons and doesn’t intend to start writing the check for her groceries until they’ve all been rung up and put into her basket, please use the line marked “inconsiderate chuckleheads”. The same goes for people who plan to scratch off lottery tickets at the counter as soon as they buy them, people at a fast food restaurant who actually have to read the menu, and any man wearing a tank top in public. Here’s your line, please use it and don’t spread your miserable behavior on the rest of us. I say we go ahead and set aside a movie theater for the mouth-breathers that can’t last an entire feature film without looking at their phone. If I’m watching a movie set in, say, the eighteenth century, those little bright blue rectangles lighting up around the theater tend to take me out of the moment. Obviously with only one theater set aside for these meatheads there won’t be much of a choice as to what movie they’re going to see, but considering they’re constantly updating their status during the thing, it doesn’t seem to matter. As to that, what could someone possibly be posting during a movie? “I’m at a movie bothering everyone around me by doing this?” I understand at first blush the idea of bending over backwards for the very people who make us want to carry a hammer around with us seems like the tail wagging the dog. It seems like we should be able to expect just the tiniest bit of politeness out of our fellow man, but sadly, that isn’t the case. People exhibiting bad behavior generally don’t realize they’re doing so. We can no longer hope that those around us will behave according to even the simplest of societal norms, so let’s just accept it and build them their own separate society where they can roll down their windows and play their music at teeth-rattling volume, loudly have thoughts on emigration, and pay for their gas with change. It may seem like giving in because it is, but in the long run I’m guessing homicide rates would drop.
July 2018
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July
RSVPast MANASSAS HIGH SCHOOL 20TH REUNION
1988 I
n June 1988 the Manassas Class of 1968 celebrated their 20th reunion at the Ramada Inn on Mt. Moriah Road. 62 classmates met that summer to reconnect and remember an historic time. On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. Curfew hours were imposed as the city was experiencing grief, protest, and unrest. Many of the graduation activities, including prom, were canceled that year. In support of the Memphis sanitation workers' "I Am a Man" movement, students participated in rallies and marches. More than 300 students graduated in the Manassas High 1968 Class. Alumni reunites each 10th year anniversary to celebrate. On April 6-8, 2018, 90 alumni gathered at the University of Memphis Fogelman Center for their 50th reunion celebration and to commemorate MLK 50. Activities included a reception, alumni brunch, Mississippi River boat ride, and a church worship service. These Manassas Tigers pictured here in 1988 are looking forward to their next reunion and are still vowing to "Never let Manassas fall!" Photo submitted by The Publicity Committee, Manassas High School Class of 1968: Alma Binion-Williams, Gloria Cleaves-Harrington and Gwenda Coleman-Porter. 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.
Beautiful and lasting
Beautiful and lastingas memories are as simple as memories are as simple rsvpmagazine.com www.rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our More pictures than looking would ever in that one of our photographers took at a website. If you’re for afitphoto a magazine online available major social are event andand is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily on our website. If you’re looking for available through address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and a photo that one ofour ourweb photograremember event the password: rsvp. phers took at a major social
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and is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available through our web address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and
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