Memphis Fashion Week
FedExFamilyHouse Jockeys Gala and Juleps
1930 Chelsea Park Drive
526 Justana Drive
45 Balmoral Court
Germantown, TN 38119
Collierville, TN 38017
Eads, TN 38028
$559,900
$515,000
$849,000
Beautiful and immaculately maintained 5 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath home between Houston Middle and Houston High. Lots of updating with 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths down! Bedroom, bath and huge playroom up. Open kitchen to keeping room with fireplace. Plantation shutters up and down. Gorgeous hardwood floors, 9' smooth ceilings and handsome millwork. This is an awesome home!
This gorgeous 5 BR/4BA home located in the sought after Spring Creek Ranch Community features exquisite architectural details & upgrades throughout including gourmet kitchen w/ granite, Jenn Aire appl's including a 6 burner gas cooktop, custom cabinetry, new light fixtures, refinished HW floors including brand new nail dn HW floors in the master bedroom, custom barn doors & shiplap walls in office or 2nd BR down, 26x11 screened patio w/ fireplace, lg custom built deck, irrigation system + so much more! Community Pool & Tennis Courts. County Taxes Only! Call Sissy today to schedule an appointment!
Luxury abounds in this beautiful estate just as you cross into Fayette County! Former Vesta Home Show Favorite with all the extra amenities. Enjoy the perfect outdoor space with automated screens off 2 large covered porches, beautiful hot tub and recently resurfaced gunite pool. Smart home, beautiful new roof, new exterior paint, storm shelter, Smart House, and so much more. Private master suite with private screen patio, walk through shower, huge closets with quick access to beautiful office with wood paneling, fireplace and built-ins. For a video tour visit mclemore.collins-maury.com
LD
SO
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Bill Maury 901.751.4311 maury@ collins-maury.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Sissy Vaughan
Tiffany McLemore
901.870.6227 vaughan@ collins-maury.com
901.233.3060 mclemore@collins-maury.com
5404 N. Clover Drive
2938 Mallard Lane
2943 Tishomingo Road
Memphis, TN 38120
Germantown, TN 38138
Memphis, TN 38111
$550,000
$1,144,000
$999,900
T ES SE U G OU H
Rare opportunity to own a 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!
Sally Isom 901.219.8882 isom@collins-maury.com
Charm…oozing from every square inch of this gorgeous home in one of Germantown’s estate areas. 5 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half baths. Oversized rooms and wide open spaces. Formal living room with coffered ceilings, huge bright great room with gallery with built-ins and wet bar. Updated kitchen. 4 more bedrooms and bonus/media room up. Magnificently landscaped yard with water feature and koi pond. Azaleas, dogwoods and specimen plantings make this your own serene retreat. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Alta Simpson 901.484.6040 alta.simpson@ collins-maury.com
Chickasaw Gardens at its finest! Beautiful total renovation with attention to details. Two luxury master suites. Finishes include Thassos marble vanities, Waterworks fixtures and custom lighting. Each bedroom with ensuite luxury baths. Exceptional guest house completely rebuilt with vintage beams and pine floors. Take a stroll around the lake to meet your neighbors and enjoy the lifestyle of Chickasaw Gardens. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Milleigh Pearson 901.550.1517 Pearson@ collins-maury.com
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
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SUMMER SALE BEGINS JUNE 8!
CONTENTS
June 2018
Features
Signature Memphis • 12
Events
Alan G. Crone
StreetSeen • 14
Senior Policy Advisor to the Mayor of Memphis
James Alexander Charting a musical legacy with a soulful purpose
Earl and Hope Cook
Memphis Moments • 16, 24, 28, 29, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40 & 46
StreetSeen • 18 Karen Bottle Capps Work reflects her roots in aspects of the Southern experience
RSVPhillippi • 49
Jeannine and Bill Watts
FedExFamilyHouse Gala • 20 Celebrating Home and Hospitality
Dennis Phillippi Welcome to our slice of heaven
Cover Photo Chip Carruthers, Jill Haag and Susan Walker Photo by Don Perry
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Allison and Kip Long
Jockeys and Juleps • 30 A Run for the Roses
Table of Contents Photo
Memphis Fashion Week • 42
Photo by Roy Haithcock
Celebrating its 7th year
June 2018
You’re Invited!
SUMMER PREVIEW EVENT June 14-16
20% off Exclusions apply
apparel • shoes • jewelry gifts • cosmetics 2140 West Poplar Avenue Suite 104 Collierville, TN 38017 901.221.7479 shopsouthernmuse.com
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 PAIR
RSVP Staff Volume XXIII • Number VI
June 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.
Bruno
Gilbert
Bruno and Gilbert have been with Sunny Meadows since 2012. They were rescued from a life of hell where they were forced to live in small cages filled with urine and feces. They were only ever used for breeding, treated like property instead of pets. They had no names and no love. Bruno and Gilbert had no reason to trust humans when we got them because they had only been mistreated. Humans meant abuse and neglect. They are very timid, understandably so, and take a lot of time to warm up to anyone. These two know each other and love each other. Each one depends on the other as a sort of rock, a comfortable foundation to lean on when terrified. Because of this, we decided long ago to keep the two little guys together as a bonded pair and require them to be adopted together. They will need lots of patience and love in whatever home they end up in. We know that home is out there somewhere! Won’t you please give them a chance. They are very calm and quiet boys who just need a place to call their own. If you would like to open your home and hearts to them please reach us at tnsafehavenforpets@yahoo.com. Or call Amy at 901-831-5567.
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 Baxter Buck 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:
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:
Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Kim Coleman Art Director
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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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.
GERMANTOWN COLLECTION / 7820 POPLAR AVE #3 / GERMANTOWN TN 38138 / 901.754.0018
From the Editor
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June
I
t’s June! And things are really starting to heat up in Memphis. We’ve already had quite a few days that felt like summer, with temperatures well into the 90s. But summer doesn’t officially arrive until the summer solstice on June 21, specifically at 5:07 a.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT). The summer solstice is often called “the longest day of the year” because that day brings us the most hours of sunlight during the whole year. With summer comes more daylight and more time to be outside to do things you enjoy. Think back to the summer days of your childhood, weren’t a good part of them spent outdoors? Even though life is more complicated for adults, with jobs and other responsibilities, you can still recreate some of those “lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer.” Best of all, many of the things that mesh with the carefree summer season cost little to nothing to do. Start in your own background and go from there. Invite friends and family over for a backyard barbecue and make your own popsicles for dessert. Set out plenty of chairs for stargazing. Have a box of Mason Jars at the ready, along with a hammer and nail to put holes in the jar lids, and have fun catching fireflies. Don’t forget to have bottles of bubbles to blow for entertainment. That old saying “simple pleasures are the best” is really true! Enjoy some summertime recreation. Take a bike ride around town on the miles and miles of bike lanes we now have to enjoy. Head to Patriot Lake at Shelby Farms Park and rent a canoe or a paddle boat. Horses are available to rent for trail rides, too. Experience yoga in a new light at the Sunrise Yoga class held at The Dixon on Wednesdays from 6:15 - 7:15 a.m. or the new offering of Sunset Yoga on the third Thursday of each month, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. (free for Dixon members, $5 non-members). Marvel at the wonder of the Mighty Mississippi with a hike across the Big River Crossing. And don’t forget to take a ride on the Downtown Trolleys. Venture off your usual path with a trip to a local pick-your-own berry patch. Strawberries are in abundance at places like Jones Orchard in Millington and in the fields they operate at the Agricenter International. Blueberries can be found just across the state line at the Nesbit Blueberry Plantation on Bankston Road. Looking for more berries? Head north to Rosemark Farm where you’ll find blackberries, boysenberries and even muscadines. Eat ‘em fresh or try your hand at canning and savor the sweet taste of summer for months to come.
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SAM HENDERSON MIKE LAWING 901-753-0010 Our designers can help you choose just the right drapery treatment for your home. We bring nearly 30 years of experience and have one of the largest fabric libraries in Memphis. Call today for all your drapery needs.
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Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
June
Alan G. Crone Senior Policy Advisor to the Mayor of Memphis; Attorney and founder, The Crone Law Firm; Deacon, Catholic Diocese of Memphis in Tennessee Hometown: Memphis, Tennessee Favorite Song: The University of Memphis Fight Song Your Lucky Charm: My faith in God’s boundless love and mercy Your Best Quality: Thinking on my feet A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: Ronald Reagan Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Family dinner at The Rendevous Favorite Place
to
Travel: St. Louis, Missouri
Best Memphis Hangout: The P&H Cafe First Car You Owned: 1979 Ford Thunderbird (Baby Blue) Place You Go
to
St. Louis, MO
Think: White House Jesuit Retreat Center,
Favorite Southern Idiom: Bless his heart Best Advice You Ever Got: You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Your Most Annoying Habit: Always being right of
Your Day: Coming home to my family
Proudest Moment
of
births of my three children
Your Life: It’s a tie — my wedding day and the
Who Would Play You
in a
Movie: Dan Aykroyd
Something You’ll Never Live Down: I should have fouled Mario Chalmers in San Antonio in 2008.
One Goal You’d Still Like the United States Supreme Court
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Accomplish: Argue a case before
Photo by Steve Roberts
The Highlight
9030 Poplar Pike, Suite 107 Germantown, TNwww.josefsjewelers.com 60 years in business * Family owned and operated * On site jeweler
June 2018 •
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JAMES ALEXANDER Still Making Soulful Music
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
June
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StreetSeen
ou might think that growing up across the street from Stax recording studio would almost guarantee that James Alexander was headed towards a career in music — but it didn’t start out that way. “I wasn’t musically inclined,” said Alexander. “However, my brother, Ben, exposed me to great music because he was a jazz buff.” By the time Alexander started Porter Junior High School, he had decided that he wanted music to be a part of his life. But it wasn’t as easy as he thought. “I wanted to play snare drums in the school’s marching band, so my mother borrowed money from a finance company so she could buy me a parade drum,” recalled Alexander. “But on our way to the music store she was pick-pocketed. My heart just sank. Then the school’s band director said he didn’t need any more drums.” Instead, Alexander was guided towards playing the sousaphone (a marching band tuba). “Although the bell of most sousaphones and tubas are fiberglass now, back then they were all metal,” explained Alexander. “I had to take it home every day to practice. It was very awkward trying to carry it home on a bus. I thought about giving up.” But things turned around for Alexander. He caught onto playing the tuba, playing so well that he made All-State and had the chance to study at a summer program at Belmont College in Nashville. “It was there I discovered I really loved playing music,” said Alexander. “Later I switched to upright bass, and then to electric bass. I started meeting people, including the guy who turned out to be my best friend, Phalon Jones. We formed a junior high jazz band and started practicing at Porter Junior High’s gym.” Alexander continued, “As time went on, a group came together called ‘The Imperials.’ Their bass player didn’t have a bass. So I would ride my bike, carrying my bass, to meet them at someone’s house so they could rehearse. One day I rode over and their bass player didn’t show up. Since I was the one with the bass, the other guys invited me to play with them — but at that time I couldn’t play bass. They offered to show me some basics and by the time the original bass player came back, the guys in the band said that he wasn’t the bass player anymore — I was.” The Imperials played together in the early 1960s and by 1964 they morphed into The BarKays. Alexander credits David Porter, Isaac Hayes and Booker T. Jones as being instrumental in getting The Bar-Kays signed with Stax. Alexander explained, “The original band
Top: Current members of the Bar-Kays posed for this shot at Earnestine & Hazel’s on S. Main.
consisted of Jimmie King (guitar), Ronnie Caldwell (Hammond B3 electric organ), Ben Cauley (trumpet), Phalon Jones (saxophone), Carl Cunningham (drums) and me (bass). We signed with Stax Records in 1967 as a recording act and as an alternative studio session band for when Booker T. and the MG’s were unavailable. And even though they were young at the time themselves, Booker T. and the MG’s were our mentors. We were headed up the charts and had secured the spot as back-up band for the legendary Otis Redding on his American tour.” However, that trip ended in a tragic finale. Otis Redding and four members of The Bar-Kays perished in a plane crash. “The only reason I’m still here is because there had not been enough room on that plane and
Above, right: These outfits worn by Bar-Kay members Larry Dodson and James Alexander are on display at the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
it was my turn to fly separately,” said Alexander. “After the crash, Ben Cauley, the sole survivor among those who were aboard the downed plane, worked with me to reform the band. Subsequently, the Bar-Kays’ work was featured on the soundtrack recording of the Academy Awardwinning theme song from the 1971 feature film, ‘Shaft’ — with me playing bass guitar.” As of 2010, Alexander is the only original member still alive in the still-active Bar-Kays. The group continues with an influx of new members, including a new lead singer, Chris J. The band travels the world, continuing to chart their musical legacy with a soulful purpose.
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Memphis Moment
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Luxor Coronation Some Enchanted Evening
F
ormal presentations of queens and kings, along with their courts, are among annual traditions cherished by members of the Carnival Memphis organization. During late winter Carnival’s support groups, known as grand krewes, hold separate coronation ceremonies that herald the beginning of Carnival season, which culminates in a week-long flurry of activities during early summer. The Grand Krewe of Luxor held its 2018 coronation of Queen Patricia Ramage and King Joe LoPresti at Esplanade Banquet and Conference Center. Their majesties’ appearances were preceded by introductions of Luxor’s royal court of duchesses and dukes. Following the ceremonies, guests, who included members and royalty of other grand krewes, enjoyed a breakfast buffet and dancing to music provided by the King Beez. Carnival Memphis’ grand krewes work throughout the year to raise funds for Carnival Children’s Charity Initiative, which in 2018 will benefit Agape Child and Family Services, Emmanuel Center and Memphis Athletic Ministries. Story and Photos by Virginia M. Davis
Greta Coger, Tiffany Brimhall and Donna Renard
Susan Angel and Sharon Fewell
Al and Lelia Green with Tom West
Fontaine Moore and Valerie Gore
Bob Bowen, Francine Klein, Marsha Hardin and Mike McNeer
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Luxor Queen Patricia Ramage and King Joe LoPresti
Kevin Bentley and Susie Blaiss
Don Dodson and Yvonne Fournier
Chuck and Mary Stewart
George Flinn and Wendy Smith
LaVonn Stauffer, Judy Harg, Ginny Lawrence, Pamela Rutherford and Lisa Vance
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
Creative Collages Are Her Brand of Art
KAREN BOTTLE CAPPS
June
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K
aren Bottle Capps grew up surrounded by several generations of her family in a small community just outside of Hot Springs, AR. Each relative had his or her own influence on Capps' life and her distinctive form of art. “My paternal grandfather made wood carvings and carved puppets out of wood,” recalled Capps. “My mother’s father was a welder and was very creative. And my father built underground structures out of rock and was good at landscaping. My mother made quilts and crocheted.”
Capps continued, ”It was my maternal grandmother who taught me to be aware of nature. We’d go fishing every chance we got.” Growing up in a rural setting, Capps and her siblings were able to roam the land, which included numerous trips to the local dump. For Capps, this was a wonderland where trash could be transformed into treasures. “I began making object collages with the odds and ends I found,” said Capps. “It might not have been ‘art’ in the strictest sense of the word, but it was the springboard to my being an artist today. My mother supported my creative side, taking me to art lessons with a watercolorist in Hot Springs. There I learned about color and composition and how to use the different brushes. I’m still very grateful for those lessons.” Capps discovered early on that art was her passion. That calling that led her to Memphis in the mid-1980s when she enrolled as a student at the Memphis College of Art. “I was a print-making major, but I only completed three semesters,” said Capps. “With no financial backing, I had to leave school and go to work.” Capps worked in screen-printing for a variety of companies in Memphis, including Nike, which produced 1 million prints per month. The experience is still a component of the work she produces today, often utilizing painting and
screen-printed backgrounds. Although her main interest was making collages, she “had to let it slide while trying to make a living.” However, in 1999 Capps began working on collages again and took on the name Karen Bottle Capps. “I started making collages that featured cars with blues artists in them, pairing the model of the car with the year of the musician’s biggest hit,” explained Capps. “Then I branched out into house portraits. To personalize these collages, I would ask people to bring me things from their junk drawers — items they hung onto because they couldn’t bear to throw them away. Some of those objects included keys, broken pieces of jewelry, etc.”
When asked where she now finds most of the objects for her collages, Capps said that she is still drawn to places on the river. Favorite items include river glass, rusty nails, vintage toys, cigarette lighters, shotgun shells and, of course, bottle caps — the item for which she is most noted. “McKellar Lake, and areas off Norris Road yield consistent finds,” said Capps. “And I like to kayak waterways and backwater areas. Going to those places reminds me of the time I spent fishing with my grandmother. She was the one responsible for my love of nature and my love of bright colors. In fact, I feel like she still lives on through my art.” Capps’ upbringing is reflected in her work today, with her images of fish, chickens and pigs, as well as vintage cars and old houses. You can also sense the influences of other regional artists like Carroll Cloar. “My work has roots in aspects of the Southern experience, with much of it drawing on my childhood spent in the wilds of Arkansas,” said Capps. “And my environment continues to influence my work. I live in the colorful Cooper-Young neighborhood where I have a studio and a screen-printing work space.” To see more art by Karen Bottle Capps, visit karenbottlecapps.com.
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2018 FedExFamilyHouse Gala
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June
2018 FedExFamilyHouse Gala
M Ann and Michael Johnson
Robert Douglass and Dr. Christian Smith
Celebrating Home and Hospitality
ore than 730 guests gathered at The Peabody for one of the year’s biggest fundraisers, the FedExFamilyHouse Gala. A cocktail reception and silent auction began the evening’s festivities. Items up for bids included an iMac desktop computer, a Williams Sonoma cooking class at Whole Foods, a membership package at Windyke Country Club, Manolo Blahnik signed art and shoes, memorabilia signed by Mick Fleetwood, and a FedEx Boeing 777 model airplane. Dinner was held in the Grand Ballroom with Honorary Chairs Cristina and Marc Gasol and celebrity guest Drew Brees delivering the opening remarks. A fresh salad of romaine with avocado and hearts of palm got things started, followed by petite filet mignon with port wine sauce and dill crusted filet of salmon on creamy mushroom risotto served with grilled fresh asparagus and a rich beurre blanc. Dessert was a chocolate lover’s dream featuring chocolate mousse, flourless chocolate cake and a bittersweet chocolate tart. Other sweet delights included southern pecan pie, red velvet cake and key lime pie. After dinner, bidding began in the live auction with items including a Caesars Palace Las Vegas VIP See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
experience with limo and dinner, a New Orleans Saints getaway for four, complete with hotel and Saints memorabilia, and a seven-night family vacation on the famous 30A in Santa Rosa Beach Florida. Other one-of-a-kind treasures included a Longboat Key weekend getaway for six guests, a trip to New York City for the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, complete with accommodations at the Ritz Carlton, a delicious dinner for 10 at the home of Susan and Alan Graf, and a Justin Timberlake concert experience at the FedExForum. After the live auction, guests continued to show their support by purchasing “Light Up The House” keepsake necklaces. With the night still young, partygoers hit the dance floor and grooved to the music of Memphis Soul Revue. Then guests moved to the Continental Ballroom for late night music and dancing with DJ Spice Girl Janet Wilson. FedExFamilyHouse opened its doors in December 2010 and is the first home of its kind for families at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. This unique institution has served over 40,000 family members from around the world and they continue to provide free, comfortable accommodations to out-of-town families of patients at Le Bonheur.
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Yuhan and Nate Wells
Bo Adams and Petra Knoedel
Michelle and Ryan Ehrhart
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Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Baxter Buck
Corey and Michelle Epps
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Michelle and Brandon Edgerson
June 2018
Marc and Cristina Gasol with Denise and Bob Henning
Jennifer Roberts and Jeff Smith
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June 2018
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2018 FedExFamilyHouse Gala
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June
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Wendy and Rusty Phillips with Kim Kyker-Morris and Bret Morris
Cindy and David Allen
Trey and Angela Eubanks
Ali Kaplan and Tony Sheyeyn
Elaine Wilkins and Amir-Kia Waxman
June
Diane Fahney and Joe Schiffhour
Katie Carter and Brian Campany
Ed Davison and Cathy Janasie
Tommy and Kris Ferrari
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2018 FedExFamilyHouse Gala
Madeleine and David Martin with Edie Eorrigan
Sarah and Thomas Lopez
Kathryn and Carl Asmus
June 2018
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Memphis Moment
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June
Grand Krewe of Ennead Coronation Life is a Dance
T
he first coronation of the 2018 Carnival Memphis Season was held in style as members of the Grand Krewe of Ennead and their guests assembled to crown Queen Sahara XXVIII and King Ennead XXVIII. The University of Memphis Holiday Inn hosted the event, and the ballroom was ablaze with beautiful purple and cream decorations to complement the theme “Life is a Dance.” Dancing was indeed the order of the night as guests enjoyed the lively sounds of the featured band, King Beez. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2018 Royal Court, led by King David Kelley and Queen Jean Oliver. Ennead is a singles-only krewe which is active all year long with both social and charitable activities. Along with the other grand krewes of Carnival Memphis, Ennead supports Agape Child and Family Services, Emmanuel Center and Memphis Athletic Ministries. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan Dottie Crihfield and Charles Humphreys
Paola High and Richard Raichelson
Patti Oliver and Ramon Glassey
Ron Swaffer and Anne Manning
Nancy Cox, Dot West and Jo Jackson
Don Davis and Sally Gentry
Lelaine Cleaves and John Goodyear
Jeff Box and Barbara Patronis
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June 2018
Robert Trouy and Jeff Box
Jackie and Ken Zimmerman
Bob and Cynthia Thomas
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MARGARET OWNER BURKE
OWNER BRONZE
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Ca l l One Of Our Sea soned P rofessiona l s With 25 Yea rs Av era ge ExperienJERRY c e!
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PAULA SANSOM
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Relocation
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JAKE OWNER LAWHEAD
TRACY LOMBARDO
JIM BLACK
EILEEN CHERNY
DAVID OKEON
Need help Job for yo
MINDY OKEON Special ne of Marx & MATTINGLY
DIANE BENSON MALKIN
t he bo o k o for you
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Call Eil Relocation Serv
Esta bl ished 1868
Whether listing or looking call (901) 682-1868 and visit: MIKE PARKER
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Explore our firm and the market at www.marx-bensdorf.com 5860 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 100 Memphis, Tennessee 38120 • 901-682-1868
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Memphis Moment
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June
RaMet Coronation “The King and I”
T
he Grand Krewe of RaMet held its annual coronation celebration at Opera Memphis. Carnival royalty and their guests enjoyed an open bar, a heavy hors d’oeuvres buffet, and the lively sounds of the band Front and Beale. The theme was “The King and I,” chosen by Queen Maat LXXVI Hope Cook. “My king and I have been married 61 years in February,” she said, referring to her husband King Ra LXXV, Earl Cook. “I saw the Orpheum production in the fall and I thought, what a wonderful title. And I love the songs, so it was perfect.” The charming theme was carried out in the gold, pearl and beaded table decorations, the costumes worn by the Queen’s pages, and the music that introduced the royal court. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Jere Gerard and David Kelley
CC Brewer with John and Sandy Brewer
Tom and Pam Vornberger
Dr. John Rada and Llana Smith
Jim and Janine Carney
B.J. Gullett and John Barzizza
Sam Zalowitz and Kathleen LaFlore
Ally Luciano with Oliver and Kat Scoggin and Teresa Coop
Pam Cain and Tiffany Brimhall
Joe Krolik and Jeni Diprizio
Patti Russell and David Everson
Paul Ince and Jim Henderson
Will Taylor and Logan Smith with Molly and John Goggans
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Albert Markle, Lillie Kay Mitchell, Dee Stephens, Earl and Hope Cook, Patricia Cook, Cheryl Pennock and Susan Jones
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June 2018
June
• Memphis Moment
Grand Krewe of Ptolemy Coronation A Royal Celebration
W
ith carnival season in full swing, hundreds of guests came together at The University Club of Memphis for one of the most fun-filled parties of the year. The event was the coronation of Sammy Bomarito as King Soter XVIII and Kat Scoggin as Queen Cleo XIX of the Grand Krewe of Ptolemy. Fine wines and premium libations were provided by The University Club. A delicious array of food featured shrimp, Italian ham, turkey and salami sandwiches on ciabatta rolls, beef sliders, black onion dip, and an assortment of cheeses, including a pimento cheese spread, with crackers. It didn’t take long for the dance floor to fill to capacity as The Dantones took to the stage playing their special brand of classic rock hits. The Grand Krewe of Ptolemy was founded in 2000 and has helped to raise more than $1 million for local children’s charities. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister Rusty Gammon, Ally Luciano, Leigh McDaniel and Charles Cox
Sharon Fewell with Carla Albonetti and Marilyn Gurley
Mike and Gail Huey
Thomas Holmes and Christopher Morledge
Sarah Scoggin, Gideon Scoggin and Carly Scoggin
Kristin Prein, Kim Flynn and Phyllis Cline
Marion Marr and Dr. Carol McCourt
Maggie Swett and Emmy DeLasho
Kirstin Wilkinson and Stacy Wyckoff
Dodie Hunter and Larry Rice
Leslie Hathcock and Angela Williams
Amber Roettgen and Cheryl Bledsoe
June 2018
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Jockeys and Juleps
June
Jockeys and Juleps
O Annie and Kathy Butler Thompson
Russell Anderson and Kathy Simonetti
A Run for the Roses
ver 800 people made their way to the Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy in Collierville for the third annual Jockeys and Juleps Derby Party. The equivalent of stretch limo golf carts were at the ready to whisk partygoers from their cars to the entrance of the gathering. Pre-race fun showcased some of the very best spring fashions as ladies expressed their inner Southern Belles. Fancy dresses topped by delicate hats or whimsical fascinators were the choice attire for women, while many dapper gentlemen sported bow ties and seersucker suits. With clouds darkening as the afternoon wore on, the most practical of footwear turned out to be rain boots. But spirits were high, not the least bit dampened, as Trip Thompson welcomed guests to the party. Silent auction items were on view in the house and included many horse-themed works of art. Dining tables were stationed under the cover of the equestrian arena, and true to the tradition of The Kentucky Derby, floral arrangements featured red roses. Food stations and bars dotted the perimeter of the ring, offering tasty tidbits like pulled pork sliders, charcuterie and a tater tot bar. Mint Juleps were the drink of the day along with a vodka-spiked fruit punch. There See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
was also a Vodka Bar sponsored by Old Dominick and a Bourbon Bar by Athens Distributing. Sweets included hat-shaped iced cookies and shot glasses filled with banana pudding or various flavored cakes. Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell spoke to the crowd, reminding everyone that The Kentucky Derby was the longest running sports event in American history, and also the most exciting two minutes of sports. Valerie Calhoun and Darrell Greene, of FOX13 Memphis, served as emcees for the event and led the afternoon’s live auction. Items up for bid included duck hunt excursions, a summer vacation in Colorado, a progressive dinner at Horseshoe Lake, several special at-home dinner offerings, a bourbon tasting in Middleton, TN, and an opportunity for two people to experience the Country Music Awards in Nashville. Event chairs for this year’s Jockeys and Juleps were Courtney and Bryan Smith, Kim and Bryan Jordan, Bridget Trenary, and Charles and Judy Burkett. They were joined by honorary chairs Mike and Liz Neel, whose daughter is a participant in the Southern Reins program. All proceeds from the event benefit Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy.
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Lyda and Walter Bross
Betsy And Darrell Horn with Courtney and Bryan Smith
June 2018
Janie and Bruce Hopkins
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Barbara and Stefan Smith
Barbara and Mike Pera
Dabney and Ginger Collier
Trip Trippeer and Patricia Wheller
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
66 Monroe Ave RG 6 &7
1574 E. Whitmar Place
$524,900
$799,000
2 BR/3.2 BA in historic Shrine Building
5 BR/4.1 BA in East Memphis
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
505 Tennessee St. #325
3599 Golf Walk Circle E.
$217,000
$849,000
1 BR/1 BA in the Lofts of South Bluffs
5 BR/5.1 BA in Southwind
SOLD
1336 Carr Avenue In Central Gardens
485 Monteigne In South Bluffs
946 Harbor View In Harbor Town
Mike Parker, ABR, GRI
Affiliate Broker, Multi-Million Dollar Lifetime Member
c. 901-277-7275 o. 901.682.1868 mikeparker-realtor.com mparker@m-brealtors.com Since 1868
1182 E. Island Place North End of Mud Island
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Jockeys and Juleps
June
Emily and Bradley Rice
Tommy and Kay Floyd
Barbara Patronis and Jeff Box
Sallie and David Harris
Caryline Adkins and Brandon Edgerson
Matt and Wendy VanCleve with Anne and Ben Nicol
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June 2018
Pat and Jan Dickey
Kelly and Sharon Truitt
Jeany Dionne and Valerie Middleton
Chris and Anne Fairey
Kristi Slipher, Megan Grinder and Courtney Clift with Romy and Morgan Brett Grinder
June 2018
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Memphis Moment
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June
Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation “The Gallop for the Gardenias”
A
s the 87th year of Carnival rolls on, the Grand Krewe of Sphinx gathered at the club house at TPC Southwind to crown its King and Queen. It was a festive occasion that started out with cocktails and music by Jamie Baker and the VIPs. Guests snacked on a delicious assortment of cheeses and fruits, along with mouth-watering boudin balls served with remoulade sauce. Master of ceremonies Bradford W. Flynn kicked off the evening with the presentation of the flag and a stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by Maurice Williams. In attendance were the 2017 Sphinx Royal Court, Former Queens of Sphinx and Royalty from visiting Krewes. The excitement built until the presentation of the 2018 King of Sphinx Horus LXXIII, Sam Zalowitz and 2018 Queen of Sphinx Tiaa LXXIII, Leslie Darr. Royal Proclamations and the official Royal Dance followed the Royal Address and Toast.
Carole Anne Furniss with Joe and DeAnne Gammon
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Ronnie Ward and Cindy Mire
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Amber Roettgen with Reece and Jane Dike
Kristi and Gammon Buckmaster
Leigh McDaniel and Ally Luciano
Hope and Earl W. Cook
Kyle Bennison and Molly Peyton
Sam Zalowitz and Kathleen La Flore
Mike and Joyce Nussbaum
Taj Schuerman and Allison Prescott
Cheryl Bledsoe and Andy Williams
Sara and Martha Mayers
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June 2018
S I N C E 1995
Advertising in RSVP Magazine places your message before an active, affluent market of Mid-Southerners who desire the best in quality and service.
More Than 120,000 Readers Average Household Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $184,500 per year Average Net Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,250,000 Female Readers . . . . . . . . 59.2% Male Readers . . . . . . 40.8% Marital Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.2% married Home Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81.3% Education: Attended/Graduated College plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.0% Have Post graduate degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.6% 88.6% . . . . Purchased a Product or Visited a Store due to Advertising in RSVP. 42.6% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Traveled Abroad during the past year. 52% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eat out at least 3 times per week. 30,000 copies delivered monthly throughout the Affluent Shopping Areas of Greater Memphis From Harbor Town to Collierville.
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June 2018
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Memphis Moment
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June
Grand Krewe of Phoenix Coronation A Night at Phoenix High
M
ore than 200 guests gathered to honor King Alexander XX, Daniel Longstreth and Queen Bastet XX, Leigh McDaniel. Complete with streamers, balloons and 45 RPM records, the gym at St. Michael School was magically transformed into a 1950s prom for the Grand Krewe of Phoenix. After the royal presentation, the music of The Dantones brought people out onto the dance floor. A huge spread of food included hamburgers with all the trimmings, hot dogs, corn dogs and pizza, as well as strawberries, watermelon, pineapple, cantaloupe and an assortment of veggies. The feast also featured a bowl of punch and chocolate and pink ladies cakes. The party at Phoenix High included premium libations flowing from the open bar as partygoers lined up in their best 1950s dress to watch a dance contest which was judged by the King and Queen of the Grand Krewe of Phoenix. Ten thousand Phoenix Bucks were awarded to the best male and best female 1950s-themed attire.
Mark Kellerhall with Tina Norris, Amber Roettgen and Cameron Blaine
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Marena McDonald and Ryan Smith-Landwehr
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Joe Brandenburg and Tara Bodansky
Joe and Carole Ann Furniss
Larry Rice and Dodie Hunter
Grant Elser with Laura and Marie Bonds
Kathleen LaFlore and Sam Zalowitz
Rob Ruble and Laura Alexander-Dodds
Brad and Kim Flynn
Ally Luciano and Sean Bonner
Gloria and John Campbell
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June 2018
Memphis Moment
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June
Carnival Memphis Business and Industry Luncheon A Salute to the Fashion Apparel Industry
G
uests gathered at the Hilton Memphis for the 2018 Carnival Memphis Business and Industry Salute. Represented by this year’s King, Jim Taylor, whose wife, Mimi, is the owner of the Pink Door, Carnival Memphis spotlighted the MidSouth Fashion Apparel Industry. The luncheon honored Oak Hall, recipient of the Cook Halle Award for outstanding contribution to the Mid-South community. Babbie Lovett was the recipient of the King’s Award. From her modeling days as a young lady to producing and serving as emcee for numerous fashion shows, Lovett is a renowned fashion icon of the Mid-South. Pat Kerr Tigrett, a talented designer of couture evening and bridal gowns, was the recipient of the Chairman’s Award. The 2018 President’s Award was presented in memoriam to Bernard Lansky, founder of Lansky Bros. Proceeds of the benefit the 2018 Carnival Children’s Charities: Agape Child & Family Services, Emmanuel Center, and Memphis Athletic Ministries. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Ginger Collier, Babbie Lovett, Jim Taylor, Pat Kerr Tigrett, Julie Lansky and Hal Lansky
Dr. Jeff and Floy Cole
John and Lisa Bobango
Tiffany Brimhall, Ally Luciano and Wendy Stanford
Rosemary Ballinger, Lynn Ballinger and Anne Conrad
Susan Angel and Sharon Fewell
Lucy Woodson and B. J. Gullett
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June 2018
Shundrika Watkins, Moziah Bridges and Tramica Morris
Alison Barton and Erika Anderson
Patti Russell and Janine Carney
Lauren Bowie, Ken Hall and Erin Phillips
June
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Memphis Moment
Grand Krewe of Ptah Coronation An Evening with Royalty
T
he Grand Krewe of Ptah crowned its king and queen at the Great Hall and Conference Center of Germantown. In attendance were former Ptah royalty, as well as Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo and visiting royalty from other krewes. Since they were both born in Amarillo,Texas and went to school together there, King Ptah XLVIII, Mike Nussbaum and Queen Sekhmet XLVIII, Susan Angel chose “Yellow Rose of Texas” as their coronation theme. The evening’s festivities kicked off early with partygoers dancing to the sounds of the Memphis Heart Band before the official welcome by Master of Ceremonies Chuck Stewart. Premium libations were flowing from the fully stocked bar and guests indulged in a feast of mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres served up in style by Simply Done Catering. There were shrimp cocktail shots, along with bacon-wrapped asparagus, roast beef sliders and succulent southwest chicken skewers with cowboy caviar by Chef Karen Shelton. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Queen Susan Angel and King Mike Nussbaum
Germantown Mayor Mike Palazzolo and Chuck Stewart
Mike and Gail Huey
David Kelley, Jackie Zimmerman and Al Owings
Phyllis and Tommy Pollard
Marti Marsh and Sam Liberto
Barbara Parham, Pam Pittman, Barbara Benstein and Sharon Fewell
Leslie and Bryan Darr
John and Molly Goggans
Bernie Krock, DeVeaux Burford, Karen Davis and Alan Barfield
Earl and Hope Cook
Mandy and Patricia Possel
June 2018
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Memphis Moment
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June
Memphis Inner-City Rugby Celebrating Student-Athletes’ Success
T
he inaugural fundraiser of Memphis Inner-City Rugby (MICR), sponsored by United Capital Financial Life Management, was held at the University Club. Board member Isabel Rodriquez welcomed everyone and MICR’s cofounder/Executive Director Shane Young reminded guests that the organization’s purpose was to expand academic and athletic opportunities in Memphis’ lowincome communities. Started at Power Center Academy, the program has expanded to Soulsville and Freedom Preparatory Academy. The three charter schools have five teams between them, two of which are all-girl teams. Guest speaker Phaidra Knight, a member of the US National Team (1999-2017), was joined by Coach Tracey Hightower of Freedom Prep and Michael Deutsch of United Capital for a special presentation to Freedom Prep team members — 2017 State Championship rings. MICR co-founder Devin O’Brien encouraged financial support for the program, which In just six short year has been proven successful by student-athletes who are making the grade at the college level.
Emily Deutsch, Molly Deutsch and Ali Deutsch
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Chris Claude and Gina Brewer
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Kierra Tuggle and Devin O’Brien
Michael Deutsch, Shane Young and LaMann Daniels
Brendan Caldwell and Moira Tescher
Coach Tracey Hightower and Phaidra Knight
Dicky Cooke and Larry Magdovitz
Tonya Randall and Alex Neale
Paul Posey and Mike Brocato
Joel Kate and Andres Lopez
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June 2018
June • Memphis Fashion Week
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June 2018
Memphis Moment
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June
Memphis Women’s Summit Promoting Personal and Professional Growth
T
he Junior League of Memphis hosted the third annual Memphis Women’s Summit at the University of Memphis. The event was designed as a community-focused leadership conference to empower women to grow professionally and personally. Vicki Clark, an organizational development consultant, gave the opening remarks. Consumer advocate Erin Brockovich was the Keynote Speaker. Brockovich is known for helping people who have suffered because of environmental contamination, unsafe medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Breakout sessions and vendor networking filled most of the schedule of the one-day event. Topics were aligned to address the different stages that women might be facing in their careers — from Leaders of Tomorrow, Entering the Workforce, Emerging Leaders to Established Leaders. A group of top Memphis women executives led a panel discussion about defining traits and accentuating strengths of women in leadership roles. And in partnership with the National Civil Rights Museum, the panel also focused on “MLK50: Where do we go from here?”.
Leah Fox-Greenberg, Margot Chapman and Jenny Taylor
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
LaShanda Massey, Katrina Heard, Yvonda Higgins and Elizabeth Jumet
Lauren Meriwether and Glendora Ditaway
Charlotte Bergmann and Lorie Ingram
Wanda Brooks and Pat Pope
Leah Fox-Greenberg, Margot Chapman and Jenny Taylor
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June 2018
Kalista Barrett and Cassidy Patrick Moore
Laura Pope, Melanie Branson and Kim Bernard
Julie Stonebarger and Christy Cornell
Sarah Richardson and Samantha Towne
Rebecca Fava, Gay Landaiche and Heather Grosvenor
Jenae Lewis and Lisa Bloom
June
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After Hours
AFTER HOURS Marx-Bensdorf Realtors 150th Anniversary
M David and Pat Okeon
David Tester and Jimmy Reed
Jim and Cathleen Black
Mike and Melanie Simpson
Barbara DuFour and Leanne Brooks
Nikki and Rip Haney
Linda and John Kaplan
John Reed and Lita Hurston-Reed
SPECIAL PROMOTION
arx-Bensdorf Realtors, Memphis’ oldest real estate firm, recently kicked off its 150th year in business with a dinner to honor its family of 45 agents and support staff at River Oaks Restaurant in East Memphis. “We attribute our company’s longevity to our agents and staff, first and foremost,” said David Tester, partner and broker at Marx-Bensdorf. “So, it made sense to celebrate this historical milestone alongside those that have played a significant role in the company’s success.” Longtime broker and former partner at MarxBensdorf, David Okeon, was honored for his lifetime of service to the local real estate company, founded in 1868.
June 2018
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Crossword
June
RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
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1 Spiritedness 4 What broke the camel's back 9 Sacred poem 14 Stain remover brand 15 Idiot 16 Map collection 17 European sea eagle 1
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ACROSS 1 Spiritedness 4 What broke the camel's back 9 Sacred poem 14 Stain remover brand 15 Idiot 16 Map collection 17 European sea eagle 18 Something very small 19 Moved stealthily 20 Interval 22 Car fuel 23 The Carribean, for one 24 Engrave 25 Submissive 27 Reasons 31 Alleviate 32 Painter Matisse 33 Chimney dirt 34 Promissory note 36 Speed measure 38 Open forcefully 39 Implant 43 Hairy men
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18 Something very small 71 Bring upon oneself 19 Moved stealthily 72 Full of swamp grass 20 Interval 73 Mem. to Atl. dir. 22 Car fuel 74 Grassland (var.) 23 The Carribean, for one 75 Popular toothpast brand 24 Engrave 76 Scarlet shade 25 Submissive 27 Reasons DOWN 31 Alleviate 32 Painter Matisse 10 11 12 13 2 List of errors1 Comic Herman 33 Chimney dirt 2 List of errors Freaks 3 34 Promissory note 3 Freaks loss 4 Dementia patient's 36 Speed measure 4 Dementia patient's loss (abbr.) 5 Small stick 38 Open forcefully (abbr.) 6 Give a new title 39 Implant 5 Small stick 7 Was out of bed 43 Hairy men 27 28 29 30 8 Keyboarder's rate a new title 6 Give 45 Roman numeral seven 9 Tempo 33 46 Student agricultural 7 Was out of bed 10 Drinking aids org. 38 8 Keyboarder's 11 rate Brew 47 Flightless bird 12 Swish Tempo 9 48 University or hospital 44 (abbr.) 10 Drinking aids13 Mountain Time 21 Not our 50 Annoyed 23 Omitted 11 Brew 53 Certain compass dir. 53 54 55 56 26 Writer Bombeck Swish 12 57 Tardy 28 Pueblo Indian trible 59 58 Was looked Mountain Time 13 at 29 New __ (city) 59 Clinton's 21 ViceNot President 30 Eye infection our 64 60 Fire remains 32 Haughty 23 Omitted 70 62 Airport abbr. 35 Lout Writer Bombeck 64 Historical26 time periods 37 Border 73 65 Look at steadily 39 trible Demonic 28 Pueblo Indian 40 One of Columbus' ships 68 Taxing month? 76 70 Baby fox29 New __ (city)41 Essence
Roman numeral seven Student agricultural org. Flightless bird University or hospital (abbr.) Annoyed Certain compass dir. Tardy Was looked at Clinton's Vice President Fire remains Airport abbr. Historical time periods Look at steadily Taxing month? Baby fox Bring upon oneself Full of swamp grass Mem. to Atl. dir. Grassland (var.) Popular toothpast brand Scarlet shade
DOWN 1 Comic Herman
June 2018
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Eye infection Haughty Lout Border Demonic One of Columbus' ships Essence Weight of a container Move forward Shred (2 wds.) Guardian Main course Toiler Cook Got comfy, like a bird Dried-up Helps Bro.'s sibling Dynamite Whiz Circle part Type of file extension (abbr.)
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Weight of a container Move forward Shred (2 wds.) Guardian Main course Toiler Cook Got comfy, like a bird Dried-up Helps Bro.'s sibling Dynamite Whiz Circle part Type of file extension (abbr.)
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RSVPhillippi
OUR SLICE OF HEAVEN June
L
ast night I met a guy who moved to Memphis about a month ago for a new job. He was sitting with some friends of mine and I By Dennis Phillippi overheard him saying something to the effect of “Wait, what about an earthquake?” Turns out he had no idea that Memphis is a little overdue for a massive seismic event. As he said, “This never came up in the interview process.” I don’t think anyone was deliberately keeping information about the New Madrid Fault, and how it hasn’t had any real pressure release in something like two centuries, and that the last time it did the river ran backwards and what is now downtown Memphis received what is believed to have been level nine activity on the Richter Scale, it’s just that we don’t think about it. If you live in a place that had a lot of earthquake activity it’s really high on your list of things to worry about, and, crazy as it sounds, prepare for. We are not prepared. We forget that an earthquake isn’t just a possibility, but an inevitability. No one told him about it because we have a lot of other things to worry about. He lives on Mud Island and I don’t think he appreciated my crack that if the Big One happens he can wave at Vicksburg as he floats by. He moved here from Central North Carolina, which, as it happens, also doesn’t have brown recluse spiders, another thing he had not been given a heads up about. Yes, we have really poisonous spiders, but it’s their stealth that is particularly alarming. When someone told him that if he plans to put on boots that have been sitting in a closet for a while he needs to make sure and shake them out because there might be a deadly arachnid bedding down in them, he looked like he was about ready to print out a new batch of resumes. He said that he assumed no one we knew had ever actually been bitten by a brown recluse and I showed him the scar on my face where one bit me in my sleep, and the woman we were sitting with told the story of someone she knew who, you know, died from a brown recluse bite. Somehow none of this was reassuring to our new resident. There probably are things that we don’t necessarily emphasize when recruiting someone to work in Memphis. I doubt if the headhunter spent much time filling him in on proper driving etiquette here. We’re not big on using our turn signals to indicate the possibility of a turn or a lane
We forget that an earthquake isn’t just a possibility, but an inevitability. No one told him about it because we have a lot of other things to worry about. He lives on Mud Island and I don’t think he appreciated my crack that if the Big One happens he can wave at Vicksburg as he floats by. change, we just happen to have it on at random times. Just because our blinker is on doesn’t mean we’re going to be turning, and just because it’s not on doesn’t mean we won’t be moving over into your lane. Tailgating isn’t just a fun game day activity; it’s also a part of the fabric of our driving. A big part of this is most of us think of the “speed limit” as more of a suggestion than an actual law. To us it’s more of a general guideline really.
Having lived his life in the Piedmont of North Carolina, my new friend also hadn’t been fully informed about the weather he is about to experience. He had been outside on an unusually hot May day, a little over 90 degrees, and was under the impression that this was somehow preparing him for the days ahead. This was, as you can imagine, met with a hearty round of laughter. Ninety, we explained, was oddly hot for early May, but the fact that it would soon be the normal daily temperature was clearly something he had not considered. The humidity in the Charlotte area isn’t something that makes much of an impression. Their humidity compared to our humidity is roughly the difference between standing in front of a tricycle and standing in front of a moving train. Oh, and another thing they don’t get in central North Carolina? Tornadoes. They might occasionally be grazed by the effect of a hurricane on the coast, but generally speaking they’re pretty isolated from what we refer to as “severe weather.” To them “severe weather” is a couple of days of snow. To us “severe weather” is also called “summer.” Maybe the reason we don’t think much about earthquakes is because we have tornado sirens on top of our firehouses and schools. Now, mind you, Memphians don’t actively worry about tornadoes because tornadoes are just a part of reality here, like hummingbird sized mosquitoes and our newest arrivals, other than my new buddy, alligators. Yep, in recent years, due to whatever is happening with the climate, alligators have decided to swim upriver and take up residence in the Midsouth, something one wildlife official referred to as; “Not a huge threat to humans.” That’s right, with the potential earthquake, deadly spiders, frequent tornado watches, and blistering heat, alligators are relegated to “not a huge threat.” They’re a threat all right, just not a huge one. When you run across a sevenfoot prehistoric killing machine you are probably going to think of the event as “huge.” The last thing I want to do is discourage anyone from moving to our great city, or to encourage my new acquaintance to see if he can get out of his lease. I love this town with all its faults. We have so many great things here, from the sports, to the people, to the music, to the food. Memphis is a city where you actually get to know your neighbors. Memphis is a city where you can navigate using compass points because we have the Mississippi River, one of this country’s natural treasures. Please live here, just make sure and buy a couple of flashlights and bottles of water.
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RSVPast MEMPHIS COTTON CARNIVAL
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ne of the highlights of the old Memphis Cotton Carnival was a grand parade down Main Street. Carnival royalty, along with many businesses and organizations, entered elaborate floats in the parade. Pictured above is Sacred Heart School’s 1940 wedding- themed float, which featured a bevy of beautiful young ladies. At the top of the photo, posing as the bride, is Margaret Raney (Coley). Standing along side of the float are bridesmaids are Betty Raney (Walsh), Ann Cardo and Mary Ann Webb. Perched atop the float are flower girls Claire Raney (Schaedle) and Mary Ann Goldschmid (Lovell). Photo courtesy of Clare Raney Schaedle 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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