Moonshine Ball
AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
Red Boa Ball
2840 Rue Jordan Cove
125 Serenbe Cove
4777 Barfield Road
Germantown, TN 38138
Collierville, TN 38017
Memphis, TN 38117
$888,900
$697,000
$675,000
A stunning one owner home in the heart of Germantown. Custom built by Magnolia Homes and features 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 1 half bath, media room and upstairs recreation room. Open design with soaring ceilings into the great room accentuated by exposed beams, detailed millwork and limestone mantel to capture the French country style. Professional kitchen with a butler's pantry is perfect for catering large events. A master suite on the main floor with a luxury bath. Covered patio overlooks the lavish backyard with a gunite pool, fireplace and outdoor cooking. Call to schedule a private showing!
Custom built Dickens home two blocks from Collierville Town Square in the private gated community of Washington Gates. Magnificent 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 1 half bath, office and bonus/exercise room. Sprawling front porch with a screened patio. French doors open from the great room into an outdoor screened patio with wood burning fireplace and ventilated grilling area. Backyard is highlighted by a heated gunite pool and hot tub. Spacious kitchen with a walk-in pantry. Master suite on the first floor with a luxury bath highlighted by a free-standing tub. Call to schedule a private showing!
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Jason Gaia 901.338.6677 jason@jasongaiateam.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Jason Gaia 901.338.6677 jason@jasongaiateam.com
12347 Cascabel Lane
6085 Wild Oaks Drive
Collierville, TN 38017
Memphis, TN 38120
$589,000
$950,000
Completely renovated open concept in East Memphis. Start your own cooking show in this pro kitchen with quartz counters, spacious island & walk-in pantry. Appliances include gas range, stock faucet, double ovens & refrigerator. Luxurious master suite & private bath updated with European soaking tub & walk-in shower. California style laundry room connects to walk-in master closets. New roof, electrical, plumbing & hot water in 2018. Smart Home featuring Nest thermostats & Ring cameras. Call to schedule a private showing! Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Jason Gaia 901.338.6677 jason@jasongaiateam.com
195 W. Chickasaw Parkway Memphis, TN 38111
$599,500 LD
SO
Under Construction NOW ! in Spring Creek Ranch (site of the 2020 Vesta Home Show). Situated off Raleigh-LaGrange Road in the Collierville rural preserve area, Boyle’s master-planned 820-acre development site surrounds a 330-acre Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Collierville’s most upscale and serene residential community, this prime location is sure to be just what you’re looking for! Built by Artisan Custom Homes. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Marty Smith 901.674.1031 msmith@ collins-maury.com
Grand Master Bedroom Suite with study. Stunning Chef ’s kitchen with huge commercial Kitchen Aid gas cooktop, 2 ovens and built in microwave. Hardwood floors throughout home, including upstairs. Main floor: Master Bedroom, Office/Study, Formal Dining Room, Living room or Den with gas fireplace, Huge tiled kitchen, Breakfast area, Laundry room and Heart room, one bath and also one half bath. Upstairs: Three Bedroom suites, each with full baths, and a spacious Playroom. Oversized 3 car garage.
Saeed Nia, Broker 901.337.1020 saeed@collins-maury.com
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!
Bill Maury
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
901.751.4311 maury@ 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
FROM LARGE TO SMALL
CONTENTS February 2020 Features
Events Signature Memphis • 10 Paul Chandler GPAC Executive Director
StreetSeen • 22 Miles Tamboli Fresh Italian Food Made for the People
Caroline Salman and Jessica Gomez
Memphis Moments • 12, 26, 28, 36, 37, 42 & 44
Courtney and Sharon Rudolph
AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala • 14 Kicking Off a New Year
StreetSeen • 24 Virginia Stallworth Executive Director of the Memphis Child Advocacy Center
RSVPhillippi • 49 Comic Cons When I was a kid comic books actually meant comic books, not movies..
Demetri Kampa and Jessica Van Eyck
Moonshine Ball • 30 Benefiting The Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum
Teresa and Steve Wilson
Red Boa Ball • 38 Benefiting the American Red Cross
Cover Photo: Erika and Brian Smith at the AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala. Photo by Don Perry Contents Photo by Roy Haithcock 4
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RSVP Staff Volume XXVI • Number II
February 2020 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.
Editor Emily Adams Keplinger Copy Editor/Accounting Ruth Cassin Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Erin Ortasic Dennis Phillippi Gaye Swan Art Director Kim Coleman Photographers Baxter Buck Don Perry Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Carter Davis
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.
RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to:
Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact:
Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787 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 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Kim Coleman
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.
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Copyright 2020 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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From the Editor
February
V
alentine’s Day is on the calendar this month and there are plenty of events happening around town that will warm your heart. Pull out your calendar and fill it with events that you want to support and show them some love. Kicking off the month are two galas taking place on February 1. Cirque du CMOM will be “a masterpiece of a party” with an art-themed evening. This benefit for The Children’s Museum of Memphis will offer food and drinks from some of Memphis’ greatest chefs, as well as a silent disco and live entertainment provided by SoulSations. On the same night, the Page Robbins Winter Gala will have people kicking up their heels at the Guest House at Graceland. The event will be hosted by Page Robbins Adult Day Center. For lovers of literature, the 10th annual Literacy is Key Luncheon will take place Feb. 6 at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis. This book and author event offers a luncheon and conversation with award-winning authors, all to benefit literacy in the Mid-South. Plan a romantic Valentine’s date night on Feb. 14 at Memphis Botanic Garden at “Wine, Whiskey & Chocolates.” Phillip Ashley chocolates will be paired with libations, and there will be a cozy fireside cocktail lounge and live music by Nick Black. As the 28th annual Works of Heart returns to the Memphis College of Art, be sure to check out our profile on Viriginia Stallworth, executive director of the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. This heart-themed art show and auction will be held Feb. 15 and will feature works by more than 100 local and regional artists. Enjoy beer, wine and appetizers while bidding on your favorite artworks, all for the heart-warming benefit of supporting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. More fun as the month goes on. Raise your glasses high to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation at their 10th annual Wine for Wishes event at the Cadre Building on Feb. 21. Mark you calendar for Feb. 22 when the annual Heart Ball will take place at The Peabody, Proceeds go to support the American Heart Association. And on Feb. 23, Soup Sunday will return to The FedExForum as a benefit for Youth Villages. Closing out the month will be the Bodine Bash, held on Feb. 29 at the Children’s Museum of Memphis. Playing to the theme of "Run for the Roses,” guests are encouraged to wear their best Derby attire and enjoy delicious Southern cuisine and libations, along with live and silent auctions and an evening of dancing. Also on Feb. 29, Alpha Omega Veterans Services will host its Military Masquerade Ball at Annesdale Mansion. Guests are encouraged to add a mask to their elegant cocktail attire as they let the good times roll in this Mardi Gras-inspired fundraiser.
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
February
Paul Chandler GPAC Executive Director Hometown: Memphis, TN Favorite Song: There are so many. Today it is “When I get to Heaven” written by John Prine and engineered by Memphian Matt Ross-Spang. Every day my favorite song is “Althea” by Robert Hunter.
Your Lucky Charm: My wife, Jennifer Hanemann Chandler Your Best Quality: I am an empath. A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite
to
Dinner: Pope John Paul II
Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: I have always agreed with The King -- “Someone asked me what I miss most about Memphis and I said, everything.” - Elvis Presley
Favorite Place
to
Travel: Any beach in the world, especially the
one by Eastern Lake in Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Best Memphis Hangout: The backroom at Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen First Car You Owned: 1988 Silver Honda Prelude Place You Go
to
Think: Driving in my car by myself
Favorite Southern Idiom: “Errybody” Best Advice You Ever Got: Plan your work and work your plan – Maurice Lipsey
Your Most Annoying Habit: I largely ignore grammar and spelling, which The Highlight
of
Your Day: The first half of a cup of black coffee
Proudest Moment
of
Your Life: When our daughter Hannah climbed
Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa and when our daughter Sarah won the second degree black belt Taekwondo National Championship
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Photo by Steve Roberts
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Memphis Moment
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February
Howl at the Moon Benefit for Streetdog Foundation
A
full moon and folkabilly tunes provided the perfect setting for Streetdog Foundation’s seventh annual Howl at the Moon. Since its founding in August 2009, the organization has rescued, rehabilitated, and found homes for over 1,000 fortunate pups, and the event serves as its primary fundraiser. Guests grazed on an impressive spread from 50 local caterers and eateries, with dishes such as Italian spinach from Coletta’s, pizzas from Memphis Pizza Cafe, and blueberry biscuits from Rise, while sipping unique hot and cold cocktails by Old Dominick Distillery. Howl at the Moon also featured live and silent auctions, with offerings ranging from doggy spa days at BrownDog Lodge to a snow coach tour for two of Old Faithful. To top off the night, founders Melanie and Kent Pafford were surprised with a $20,000 grant from Focus MidSouth for their hard work and dedication to this wonderful cause. Story and Photos by Erin Ortasic Kent and Melanie Pafford with Stanley
Landon and Libba Simmons
Jordan and Alexis Myers
Victoria Vastagh and Katie Burnette
Kaylee Keyes and Stanley
Kelsey Money, Ally Spraker, Cortnee Rowell and Kade Bryant
Kathy and Berlin Howell
Faren Lee, Chris Brock and Katie Minner
Mary Padron, Celina Roseberry, Lisa Sanders and Johnna Popper
Christa Gilliland, Kent Wills, Meghan Verrell and Emily Facello
Lauren and Scott Shelton with Cathy and Charlie Winfield
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February
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Memphis Moment
Come shop our upholstery sale! 30% OFF
LEE INDUSTRIES MSRP ON SPECIAL ORDER UPHOLSTERY
February 17th - March 2nd We're here to help you choose the right fabrics and furniture styles for your custom pieces. Stop by to see us!
Laurelwood Shopping Center
420 South Grove Park Road • Memphis, TN 38117 • 901.207.4392
Who Let the Dogs Out Harbor Town Dog Show
Lindsey Gordon and Robert Stevens with Hero
Kim Jameson and Bruno
B
ack for the 15th year, the Harbor Town Dog Show had pooches and their people strutting their stuff to the delight of the gathered crowd. Celebrity judges for this year’s event included Valerie Calhoun, Jack Kenner, Michelle Lewis, Jon Sparks, and Amy Speropoulos. Kym Clark served as emcee. The canine competitors came in all shapes and sizes and vied for such titles as Most Mysterious Heritage, Best Tail Wagging, Terrific Pet Trick, Least Obedient, Look Alike and Most Original Costume. Angela Miller and her Chinese Crested, Harry, took home Best of Show. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Angela Miller with Harry
Julie Ray and Greg Belz
Renee, Thomas and Stella Cole with Darcy
Robert Hayes and Valerie Calhoun
Maritza Davila and Jon Sparks
Kym Clark and Amy Speropoulos
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AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
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February
Kicking Off the New Year AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
A
Marie and Larry Howell
Kenny and Susan Lannou
s folks were preparing to count down to the new year, a crowd gathered at The Peabody for one of the premier parties of the season to also count down to the kickoff of the 62nd AutoZone Liberty Bowl. The 2019 President's Gala began with a cocktail reception in the Continental Ballroom with guests sharing their predictions for the outcome of the next day’s game between the Navy Midshipmen of the American Athletic Conference (AAC) and the Kansas State Wildcats of the Big 12 Conference. The group moved to the Peabody Grand Ballroom where the local group Almost Famous provided musical entertainment. Harold Graeter, Associate Executive Director of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, welcomed attendees and called for a procession of VIP dignitaries to come to the front of the room. City of Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland spoke to the crowd, explaining the significance of the Liberty Bowl to the overall bowl tradition. He also provided the evening’s invocation. The seated dinner was catered by The Peabody and offered a menu of green salad with dried cranberries and walnuts, and a double entree of chicken and filet served with asparagus, carrots and mashed potatoes. A dessert duo included crème brûlée and a chocolate mocha torte with fresh fruit. The wives of the teams’ head coaches were honored as Steve Ehrhart, See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Executive Director of AutoZone Liberty Bowl, made the traditional presentation of crystal vases to Rhonda Klieman, wife of Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman, and Barbara Niumatalolo, wife of Ken Niumatalolo, head coach of the Naval Academy. Next, awardwinning country music star Scotty McCreery was brought to the stage as Bill Giles, President of the 2019 AutoZone Liberty Bowl presented him with the Outstanding Achievement Award. “Each year, this award is presented in recognition of excellence in the field of music and entertainment, as well as service to the community,” explained Ehrhart. “In 2011, Scotty McCreery won the 10th season of American Idol. He made history when he became the youngest male artist of any genre, and the first country music artist ever, to have his debut album (Clear as Day) enter at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, Among past recipients of the Outstanding Achievement Award are Danny Thomas, Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Lou Rawls, Clint Black, Little Richard, Alabama, The Beach Boys, and The Temptations.” Scotty McCreery was the headline entertainment at the gala. His high energy music brought people to their feet, filling the dance floor to overflowing. McCreery also starred the next day in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s halftime spectacular.
Ron Wong and Pam Kimery
Tabitha Carpenter and Sidney Shields
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Ronald and Carolyn Kent
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Rick and Hemmy Patel
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Wendy and Dave Joachin
February 2020
Leslie Shifflett and Guy Proctor with Meghan and Chad Halbert
J.W. Whitten and Katie Ligon
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AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
Sarah and Glen Barlow
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February
Jim and Barbara Ruth Googe
Jennifer and Eric Cupp
Jennifer and Bennett Wimberly
Chris and Carmen Hicks with Tawanda and Derrick Marble
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Mike and Celeste Longo
Angelo and Debbie Caserta
Gavin and Carolyn Bell
Erin and Tony Harvey
Julie Crawford and John Dunavant
Jim and Denice McMahonn with Ann and Gary Meyer
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February
Chris and Aparna Narayanan
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AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
Mark and Brenda Pryor
SCOUT ANTIQUES | INTERIORS
5040 SANDERLIN AVE. SUITE 104, MEMPHIS, TN 38117
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David and Shanea McKinney
Stanley and Valerie Jones
February 2020
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AutoZone Liberty Bowl President's Gala
Dana and David Norwall
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February
Mary and Keith Billingsley
Tammy and Dale Kennedy
K. K. and Johnnie Gross
Christine Donhardt and Sue Skaer
Doug Browne and Chelsea Lumpkin with Holly and Paul McElyea
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Alia and Lasonya Hall
Graham and Ashton Elwood
Scot Bearup and Valerie Morris
Terry and Toi Beckford
Calvin Anderson, Mark Russell and Greg Duckett
The Rices wrote the book on divorce. Literally. The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice is published by the American Bar Association and is recognized as the standard reference for divorce lawyers across the nation for decades. For the 30th Anniversary Edition, the Rices co-author their book with over a thousand pages of insight, experience, and techniques. Lawyers seek out Larry’s expertise and he has lectured on divorce in most states and in some foreign countries. As the only Super Lawyer in the Mid-South certified as a Family Law Specialist, Larry Rice spends most of his time practicing law with the Rice Divorce Team. Thomson Reuters repeatedly ranks Mr. Rice as one of the top 100 lawyers in all fields of law in Tennessee. Larry received The National Academy of Family Attorneys Top Ten Attorney Client Satisfaction Award and is rated on AVVO as 10 out of 10. Nick Rice grew up with the law. After graduating from CBHS and UT-Knoxville, Nick clerked while attending The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Nick has lectured on several occasions and was recognized as one of Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars. Nick is rated on AVVO as 10 out of 10. He is a Rule 31 Family Law Mediator. The Rice Divorce Team is a practice group within Rice, Amundsen & Caperton, PLLC. The Rice Divorce Team is exclusively committed to family law - from prenuptial agreements to final decrees, from parenting time to property division and everything in between, and it includes: Larry Rice; Nick Rice; Erin O’Dea; Jessica Farmer Ferrante; Chelsea Knox; Faith Sanford; Christopher Burt; Jennifer Goodin; Andrea Schultz, ACP; Susan New, ACP; Tyler Walker; Cyndy McAfee; Lisa Blackledge; Krista Burt; Ken Schultz; Linsey Boatner; C.J. Parrish; Irris Williams and Blake Alford. The team applies generations of legal experience, nationally recognized expertise, and up-to-date technology to lead their clients through negotiations, mediation, arbitration or litigation. The depth of The Rice Divorce Team’s personnel provides the ability to tailor representation to each client’s individual needs and goals. While the team is proud of courtroom success, their greatest satisfaction often comes from obtaining a quick and quiet settlement favorable to their client. Divorce is difficult. Divorce is made worse by misinformation people have about divorce. The Rices’ guide for clients, “About Divorce”, is available at aboutdivorce.com.
275 Jefferson Avenue Memphis, Tennessee 38103 901.526.6701 firm@ricelaw.com • aboutdivorce.com
Food for the People
MILES TAMBOLI Story by Emily Adams Keplinger • Photos by Steve Roberts
February
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StreetSeen
“The Italian philosophy regarding food is based on quality ingredients and working with what is affordable and accessible.”
M
iles Tamboli moved back to Memphis in 2014 and in just a few short years has secured a place in the city’s food landscape. Born and raised here, he already had deep ties within the community. Now he is putting down roots down that go back several generations to his family in Italy.
When Tamboli first returned to town, he said he had no real plans to stay in Memphis. “I thought I might be here for maybe a month or two,” recalled Tamboli. “But it didn’t take long for me to see that, for a number of reasons, Memphis was fast becoming an entrepreneur’s paradise. Start-up costs were relatively low, as were other barriers to entering the marketplace. And more importantly to me, the food culture was growing and space was available to grow food. It was just luck that I happen to stop in and recognize what was going on here. The timing was just right.” Tamboli first stepped into the local food scene by launching and managing the Girls, Inc Youth Farm. He started a program there to give young people an opportunity to do meaningful work while producing food and getting paid. In addition to employment, the farm gave the students an education about food and first-hand opportunities to learn about entrepreneurship. “Through the farm, we offered a critical business component by immersing ourselves in it as
a functioning business,” explained Tamboli. “We sold our produce at the Memphis Farmers Market, as well as to a number of area restaurants, and we started a small CSA (Community-Supported Agriculture) program. The goals were eco-sustainability and financial sustainability.” More recently, Tamboli’s future became impacted by his past. He took a trip to Italy to discover his family’s roots. While there he also discovered a new understanding of Italian food that perfectly synced with his own aspirations of growing food in the Memphis area. “The Italian philosophy regarding food is based on quality ingredients and working with what is affordable and accessible,” said Tamboli. “It means eating what grows well locally, and growing food without the use of chemicals. Pastas and pizzas are mainstays of the Italian diet.” When Tamboli returned to Memphis, he said that he started making his own pasta because he wanted to eat it. “I started making pasta almost compulsively,” recalled Tamboli. “Then I started selling it at the
Memphis Farmers Market, along with produce. Ultimately, I started assembling what was basically a take-home meal kit, with pasta, sauces, cheeses and fresh produce. The endeavor became a conduit to provide healthier, affordable eating for others. Pretty quickly I realized that there was a market for it and I started looking for a way to reach a broader audience and feed more people.” Tamboli began sub-leasing an upstairs kitchen at the former Fuel Cafe, a building on Madison Avenue owned by his father, Roy Tamboli, and his step-mother, Carol Buchman. Soon the site became a space to host pop-up dinners. When Fuel closed, it seemed like everything fell into place for Tamboli to take over the lease. “Though my long-term association with the place, I had developed a vision of what a restaurant could be like in that space and how the flow would work,” said Tamboli. To that end, Tamboli enclosed the former patio space to add more seating. And by design, the kitchen is in full view from the dining area. “To me, it feels like our guests are having a dinner party in a house with a very nice kitchen,” said Tamboli. “Offering affordable, nourishing food in a space that has nice ambience is the goal.” Now Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza, at 1761 Madison, is serving casual Italian food. Tamboli describes it as food of the land that is filling and nourishing — food for the people.
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
Virginia Stallworth Executive Director of the Memphis Child Advocacy Center
February
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StreetSeen
“Like a lot of people in the nonprofit world, I sort of fell into it. Luckily, I found it was the right fit for me — a place where I could do meaningful, impactful work.”
V
irginia Stallworth came to Memphis from Pascagoula, Mississippi by way of “Ole Miss.” She left her coastal hometown to study at the University of Mississippi, earning an undergraduate degree in History, with minors in English and African American Studies. After college she moved to Jackson, Mississippi for a short while before coming to Memphis for a job.
“My first professional job was as the Education Director for Friends for Life, a local and regional HIV-AIDS service organization,” recalled Stallworth. “Like a lot of people in the nonprofit world, I sort of fell into it. Luckily, I found it was the right fit for me — a place where I could do meaningful, impactful work.” Stallworth enrolled at the University of Memphis to further her education. She completed a master’s degree in Communications with an emphasis on Organizational Communication and Nonprofit Administration. “Most of my projects and papers were focused on the nonprofit world,” said Stallworth. “I started identifying local nonprofits organizations that
had missions I felt strongly about — places where I might be interested in working. The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) was one of those organizations.” While still a grad student, Stallworth observed a CAC board meeting, and also and interviewed former executive director Nancy Williams. Stallworth completed her graduate work in August 1988 and that fall the CAC posted a newly created position for a Development and Community Relations Director. Stallworth applied, got the job, and has been there ever since. She became Executive Director in 2014 when Williams retired. “The Child Advocacy Center is a nonprofit organization that works
towards safety, healing and justice for victimized children,” explained Stallworth. “Specifically we work in public-private partnerships with law enforcement, child protective services, the District Attorney’s office, and other agencies in response to reports of child sexual abuse, and other severe abuse. Our staff includes therapists, forensic interviewers, advocates, prevention educators, and other professionals.” One of the ways the CAC is financially supported is through its annual Works of Heart fundraiser. Many guests make Works of Heart part of their annual Valentine celebration, enjoying complimentary beer, wine and appetizers while bidding on their favorite artworks. This year’s Works of Heart will take place Feb. 15, 7-10 p.m., at the Memphis College of Art. The artwork actually goes on public display for a week prior to the event (Feb. 10 - 14), in the college’s main gallery during business hours. The preview is free. Last year’s Works of Heart event raised $85K, and Stallworth said they are working hard to reach $100K this year. There are new sponsorships in
place and all proceeds from the event directly support the services provided for children at the CAC. “The Child Advocacy Center opened its doors in 1992,” said Stallworth. “During my tenure at the CAC, I’ve seen such a change of awareness in our community. We have a ‘Bear Wall’ where each child who comes to our center gets to pick a teddy bear to take home as a comfort companion. When I first started giving facility tours, I often heard the comment, ‘I wish there had been a Child Advocacy Center when I was a kid.’ Now instead of saying, ‘I wish…,’ it isn’t uncommon for adults to say they still have their bear. We’ve been around long enough to see adults who had the benefit of the CAC now living and thriving as happy people. It is proof that kids are really resilient if we provide the right kind of treatment and coping mechanisms for them to help them see that there is light at the other end.” For more information about the Memphis Child Advocacy Center, located at 1085 Poplar, visit MemphisCAC.org.
February 2020
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Memphis Moment
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February
Memphis Heritage, Inc. Adapt-a-Door
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he 11th annual Adapt-a-Door fundraiser brought folks out to support Memphis Heritage, Inc. (MHI) and its mission of historic preservation. The event took place at Howard Hall and included a silent auction of artwork and furniture created by local artists, architects, woodworkers and other creative makers. This year’s creations were crafted from not only doors and windows, but also from architectural salvage of any kind. The resulting one-of-a-kind objects took the form of desks, side tables, shelving units, and more — collectively delivering a tangible message of recycling the past. “Guests had the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece, resulting in George and Jane Scarbrough taking home bragging rights as Best of Show for their piece, ‘Shutter Bar’,” said June West, Executive Director of Memphis Heritage. “Proceeds from the evening will support what MHI does best, giving Memphis’ past a future.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Bethany Price, Stephanie Wexler-Price, Nigel Price and June West
Barry and Charlotte Sparrow
Christian and Susie Kardas with Alex Jones
Richard Carr and Laurie Williams
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February 2020
Carol Hagan and Sterling Fisher
Katherine Jones and Floyd Brummett
Suzy Hendrix and Terrie Hageveen
Jon Russ and Jenny Levi
Leah Fox-Greenberg and Robert Hughes
Emily McEvoy, Chris Byrd and Pamela Hauber
Joe and Katy Spake
Lucinda Letson and Julie Ray
Memphis Moment
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February
Junior League of Memphis Celebrating Party Potpourri
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enerations of Memphis cooks have turned to the Party Potpourri cookbook for tried-and-true recipes, as well as entertainment inspiration. To celebrate’s the book’s 50th anniversary, the Junior League of Memphis (JLM) hosted a celebratory luncheon. The event was chaired by JLM Sustainers Katherine Godoy and Nancy Klepper. Among the guests were women who were original contributors and past JLM presidents and other leaders of the organization. Party Potpourri has earned a special place in the hearts and kitchens of many cooks, and it has also earned a place in Southern Living’s Hall of Fame. With a nod to that honor, Sid Evans, editor of Southern Living, was the luncheon’s guest speaker. “Party Potpourri was literally a ‘Hostess How-To’ and defined entertaining,” said Evans. “In addition to providing recipes and helpful hints, it is a prime example of how community cookbooks empowered women to be able to raise their own money and make a difference in their communities.”
Sid and Susan Evans with Erica Coopwood and Marsha and John Evans
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Julie Maroda and Lisa Bobango
Lida Bross and Barbara Prest
Suzanne Mallory and Mary Joy Knowlton
Joyce Nussbaum and Jan Cornaghie
Nancy Klepper and Katherine Godoy
Summer Godman and Caroline Kuebler
Jennifer Chandler and Jean House
Charlotte Gillespie, Christy Cornell and Missy Rainer
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February 2020
Ellen Kirkpatrick, Karen Lawhorn and Beverly McClatchy
Pam Williams and Samantha Towne
Meegie Glass, Ellen Rolfes and Nancy Menzies
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Moonshine Ball
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February
Moonshine Ball Benefiting The Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum
I Melinda Keathley and Eric Epperson
Robert Addie and Stephanie Norwood
t was truly a stellar event, with stars from the ranks of the performing arts elite gathering to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Landing on the Moon. Pat Kerr Tigrett chaired the Moonshine Ball and was joined by honorary co-chairmen Priscilla Presley, Senator Marsha Blackburn and Tennessee Entertainment Commissioner Bob Raines. Angel Cropper, Carla and Dr. Paul McCombs, and LaRawn Rhea were Moonshine Ball co-chairmen. Corporate Sponsors included Graceland, B. B. King’s Blues Club, The Ayers Foundation, Carla and Dr. Paul McCombs and Tigrett. “The evening was in honor of ‘America’s Favorite Astronaut, Buzz Aldrin,’ and served as a benefit honoring our brave veterans who provide our freedom, and our policemen and policewomen in blue who help keep us safe, 24/7,” explained Tigrett. “We were also honoring Tennessee, where America’s music was born.” As guests stepped onto the entry plaza of the Graceland Entertainment Center, they could tell they were in for a very special evening. Just inside the front doors, billowing clouds of white balloons lent a festive air to tables that were laden with silent auction items. There were many types of musical memorabilia, up for bid, as well as jewelry, Malco movie tickets, dining See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
gift certificates, and tickets to a favorite perennial event, the Jingle Bell Ball. There were also ball caps personalized with “Bluff City Law,” a VIP package to Raiford’s Disco and several pieces of original art by Michael P. Maness. Actor Morgan Freeman and musician Steve Cropper were two of the luminaries in the evening’s crowd. Well-known local community leaders included Jack and Leighanne Soden, Boo Mitchell, Jerry Phillips, Kevin Kane, Steve Ehrhart, Lucy Woodson, Bob Berry, Randa Rosenblum, and former mayors Mark Luttrell and Bill Morris. As the party started, guests mingled and made their way to find their assigned tables. Dinner was served buffet-style with dishes from B. B. King’s Club, Central BBQ, Lafayette’s Music Room, Rizzo’s, Sekisui, The Cupboard, and Westy’s. Dinstuhl’s provided sweets for dessert. While dining, party-goers enjoyed star-studded entertainment. First was Al Green’s Full Gospel Tabernacle Choir and Band, followed by Southern Halo, Wendy Moten and Jason D. Williams. Alston Meeks performed in the VIP Jungle Room piano bar. It all added up to a truly “out of this world” evening. Proceeds from the Moonshine Ball will benefit The Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum.
Joe Oakley and Lia Roemer
Lyn and Harry Anderson
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Angela Andreuccetti and Cynthia Giannini
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Baxter Buck
Jake and Callie Habrun
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Colonel Elmer and Debbie Follis
Al Kapone, Oona Mitchell Bean, Daniel Bean and Boo Mitchell
February 2020
Kevin Kane and Steve Cropper
Moonshine Ball
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February
Marne Anderson and Charles Warner
Darrell and Lisa Sheffield
J.M. and Deborah Van Eaton
Donnie and Tonya Culver
Leland and Joseph Fox
Orson and Vicki Weems with Lydia and Al Bell
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February 2020
James Dowd and Torrey Hughes
Michael and Megan Sousoulas
Vicki and Ron Olson
Kimberly Douglas and Ken Hall
Laura O’Mell, Jerry Phillips and Celine Lee
February
Michael D. and Brigitte Rhew
Sam Bryant and Emily May
Lisa Baldwin and Allan Barton
Greg and Elizabeth Smithers
K.K. Gross and Bret Rodriguez
Emily and Chris Wiltse
David and Amy Turner with George Sousoulas
• Moonshine Ball
Matt and Heidi Runn
John Elkington and Valerie Calhoun
Geri and Hal Lansky
Paula Thompson, Sally Gentry, Rodney Baber and Robyn Birch
February 2020
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Moonshine Ball
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February
Carla and Paul Mccombs
Ford Coleman and Amy Strickland
Diane Black, Amy Wilhite and Jim Craig
Timmi and David Warlick
Mike Baber and Jodie Vance
Robert Oates, Kim Singleton and Bob Owens
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February 2020
Kristy and Stephen Gipson
Richard and LaRawn Scaife Rhea
Sonja and Maurice Butler
Susan Murrmann and Linn Sitler
Larry and Pam Laurenzi with Susan and Bob Rowan
Memphis Moment
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February
The Arc Mid-South Gala Bridging the Voices
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he Arc Mid-South welcomed guests to its 24th annual Awards and Benefit Gala with the theme “Bridging the Voices.” Memphis Botanic Garden was decked in shades of blue, with charming centerpieces on every table. The evening included entertainment from jazz saxophonist Antonio Hobson, line dancing led by instructor Tony Hearns, a live auction, and an awards ceremony honoring Janeen Gordon of WMC Action News 5, and Bev Johnson of WDIA Radio. A silent auction featured gift cards, gift baskets, hotel accommodations, trip packages, jewelry, pottery, sports tickets, and more. Complete Catering provided a delicious spread with dips, fruit and cheese, egg rolls, chicken and pork sliders, shrimp and grits, and a tempting array of desserts. The Arc Mid-South helps individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering a number of services including in-home respite care, summer camps, weekend retreats, job readiness training, job placement, and advocacy. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan State Representative Antonio Parkinson, Janis Fullilove and Janeen Gordon
Sandra White with Charissa and Brandon Wellford
Rosemary and Bill Southard
Shannon Brown and Carlene Leaper
Judge Kathy Gomes and Beth Bradley
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Kara and Damon Sanders
February 2020
Jennifer and Scott Morgan
Debra Wright and Arianna Wright
Janis and John Lichterman
Jackie Dandridge and Lester Brown
Leonel Godinez, Greg Fry and Alexis Robbins
February
• Memphis Moment
Lessons for a Brighter Future Facing History and Ourselves Benefit Dinner
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Alissa Campbell Shaw and Christy Marcrum
Deborah Northcross and Lillian Hammond Brown
ver the years one organization stands out as a beacon of hope for the future. Facing History and Ourselves has trained over 10,000 teachers who have taught over half a million students in the U.S. and Canada. Facing History develops educational curriculum focusing on prejudice and injustice in American and European society with a focus on Nazi Germany and the Holocaust. Over 700 supporters gathered at the Memphis Hilton for the organization’s annual fundraiser. Dinner began with a crisp Romaine salad, followed by a scrumptious grilled breast of chicken, baked salmon with tomato jam, green beans and carrots, roasted tri-color potatoes. Dessert included cheesecake and chocolate mousse. Featured speakers for the evening included President and CEO Roger Brooks, Benefit Dinner Co-Chair Dr. Carol JohnsonDean, Facing History students Durias Dyer and Anna Calvo, along with Executive Director Marti Tippens Murphy. Keynote Speaker for the evening was Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eli Saslow. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Alan Spearman and Amanda Lucidon
Marty and Dale Kelman
Justin and Jena Miller
Stephanie and Ron Osher
Steve Becton and Susan Graber
Anna Kathryn Word with Eli Saslow, Ashley Tobias and Roger Brooks
Mimsy Jones and Buddy Stallings
Andree Glenn and Steve Gadbois
Dawn and Thor Kvande
Marti Tippens Murphy and Joseph Levy
February 2020
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Red Boa Ball
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February
Red Boa Ball
G Laura Vaughn and John Brown
Alice Higdon and Jeff Morris
Benefiting the American Red Cross
lowing shades of scarlet lit up the evening as the American Red Cross hosted its 10th annual Red Boa Ball. From the floodlights on the large trees outside Memphis Botanic Garden to the boas available at every table to the touches of red worn by guests, the organization’s signature color was shining brightly to highlight the critical services it provides to the Mid-South. Guests were welcomed to the event by the lively sounds of The Dantones and delicious circulated appetizers from event caterer Coletta’s Italian Restaurant, including pesto chicken in pastry, mini Beef Wellingtons, and spanakopita. Just off the lobby, attendees enjoyed a photo booth with plenty of fun props. The event featured a cocktail reception, seated dinner, dancing, live entertainment, and a live and silent auction. Items for bid included sporting event passes, gift baskets, tasting tours, movie passes, art, jewelry, wine and spirits, hunting apparel, fishing tackle, delicious meals, and so much more. Violinist Donna Wolf serenaded guests as they browsed the selection, chatted, and enjoyed drinks from the bar. This year, 100 golden tickets were See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
available for purchase to win a chance to win the coveted Golden Paddle, which gave the lucky winner a $3,000 credit to the auction. A jewelry pull featured a stunning array of gold and silver bracelets from James Gattas Jewelers and Ronaldo Designer Jewelry. Inside Hardin Hall, black tablecloths and chair covers provided an elegant backdrop for redaccented centerpieces, and of course the feathered boas. Dinner included a fresh garden salad, beef tenderloin with a peppercorn demi-glace, stuffed breast of chicken with a sundried tomato cream sauce, potatoes au gratin, roasted asparagus, and for dessert, a decadent turtle cheesecake. “The Red Boa Ball is our premier humanitarian fundraising event,” said John H. Brown, American Red Cross Executive Director, Mid-South Chapter. “It brings family and mission together to celebrate and support the work we do to alleviate human suffering through our donors and volunteerism.” The event’s sponsors included the MidSouth Board of Directors, Cigna, James Gattas Jewelers, Lipscomb and Pitts, SSI State Systems, John and KK Gross, Baker Donelson, Aetna, Davies Hood PLLC, and First Horizon.
Sidney Johnson and Victoria Young
Penney and David Williams
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Kim and Harold Collins
Story by Gaye Swan Photos by Don Perry
Stan and Jennifer Gaines
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Ricky and Catherine Harris
February 2020
Carolyn Grizzard, Sharon Fleischut and Erin Schultz
Dr. Lynn and Mary McMahan
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February
Tommy and Lynne Thacker
Teresa and Steve Wilson
Xavier and Blandi Parham
Chris and Pam Sandoval
Kim and Mike Anderson
Renee Miller, Derna Greenberg and Peg Scott
Red Boa Ball
Stacy and Curt Davis
Jackie Pride and Kyle Hurt
Tim Maxwell and Beth Flanagan
Marci and Richard Fisher
Cason Mclean and Natalie Ried with Amber Kaminski and Ross Redmont
February 2020
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Red Boa Ball
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February
K. K. and Johnnie Gross
Robert O’Bryan and Susan Patrone
Colleen and Lee Wilson
Shelley Carr and Nikki Marsh
Barbara Benstein and Thad Nowak
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February 2020
Dr. Russell Radican and Debbie Deer
Jason and Betsy Hood
Mike and Brooke Williams
Liz and Mike Edmundson
Donna and Waid Ray
Judy Card and George Larrimore
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February
Evelyn and Logan Ward
Devvon Webster Randy Irving
Doug and Grace Christie
Henry Lyons Christina Wright
Karen Boozer Karen McNeil
Red Boa Ball
Tim and Mary Agnes Ellis
John and Kathryn Carter
Jim and Amber Williams
Tammy and Darin Drake
Jason and Alicia Ross
Ross Redmont Amber Kaminski
February 2020
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Memphis Moment
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February
MCA Holiday Bazaar Memorable and Meaningful
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he seasonal tradition of The Memphis College of Art kicked off the holidays for the hundreds of people who headed to the school’s 69th and final Annual Holiday Bazaar. The event began with a special Preview Party, where guests were treated to light hors d’oeuvres and the opportunity to make purchases during the preview hours. Its final run was bittersweet for participants and patrons alike. “This year’s Holiday Bazaar featured many of the items that made the bazaar such an iconic Memphis institution,” said Bud Richey, Vice President for Advancement and Student Affairs. “There was an eclectic, curated collection of handmade jewelry, textiles, pottery and ceramics, watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, custom prints, photography, mixed media pieces, ornaments, metalwork, woodwork, and more, spanning a range of price points.” Over 100 artists participated in this year’s event, including former instructor Dolph Smith. This show was Memphis’ original and longest-running art bazaar. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Steve and Tracy Rone
Anne Azmi and Jes Crownover
Michele Lynn and Cathy Silverstein
Murray Riss and Bud Richey
Leigh Pittenger and Baird Callicott
Renee Prosser and Mark Fleischer
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February 2020
Doug Wright and Laura Nathan
Sarah Prosser and Jennifer Karnes
Erica and Sean McCarrens
Daniel Reid and Alice Higdon
Jessie and Dolph Smith
Jessica Benitone and Robbie Weinberg
Memphis Moment
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February
Memphis Symphony Orchestra Circle of Friends
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he Memphis Symphony Orchestra’s Circle of Friends (COF) held a launch party for its 2019-2020 season. The event served as a membership recruitment opportunity as well as a chance to share information. Held at Central Station Hotel, attendees enjoyed mingling and cocktails prior to a series of presentations. “Termed ‘An Instrument of Inclusion,’ the purpose Circle of Friends is to bring people of diverse backgrounds together to be involved in the symphony,” explained Ellen Rolfes. Becky Wilson welcomed the gathered crowd and Carolyn Hardy outlined the importance of COF to Memphis. Next, Gayle Rose gave an update on the Musician Fellowship Program and described the ongoing partnership between MSO and the University of Memphis. Belinda Anderson introduced MSO Assistant Director Kalena Bovell. Dr. Candace Flippin introduced MSO Music Director Robert Moody, who gave an overview of the coming season. Rolfes and Riche Bowden gave the closing remarks and thanked everyone for their support. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Cynthia Ham and Elizabeth Rouse
Robert Moody with Earnestine Robinson, Alexandria Robinson and Todd Robinson
Bonnie Hollabaugh and Keisha Bozeman
Tracy Prewitt and Whitney Hardy
Ann Hankins, Lura Turner and Marti Tippens-Murphy
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Gale Jones Carson, Belinda Anderson and Valerie Scott
February 2020
Meg Sippey and Blake Longcrier
Ellen Rolfes, Gayle Rose and Becky Wilson
Lillian Brown, Joy Weiner and Brandon Knisley
Nancy Coe and Peter Abell
Dr. Candace Steele Flippin, Lynne Walker and Deborah Hester Harrison
February
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After Hours
AFTER HOURS A Photo Collage of the Latest Business Happenings The Skin Clinic Holiday Open House
Muffy Liebenow and Sam Colbin
Josef's Jewelers 60th Anniversary Party
Viktoria Zarovsky and Tomi Beckemeyer
Julie Canepari and Ashley Colburn
Sally Hearn and Alisha Wilmoth
Emily Redd, Brooke Ballard and Michaela Dockery
Bari Metz and Emily Van Epps
Charlene and Stan Soltis
Deborah and Bill Parks
Brandon Sheley, Michelle McIvor and Travis Sheley
Janet Roark, John Krc and Mark Eckroth
Solutions Holiday Open House
Stephanie Fleming, Matt Gossett and Kim Clark
Keri Mason and Kate Gassaway
Avery Franklin and Marisha Mounce
February 2020
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After Hours
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February
AFTER HOURS A Photo Collage of the Latest Business Happenings Blue D'or Holiday Open House
Reign Boutique Holiday Open House and Grand Opening
Kim Williams and Garrick Ealy
Leigh Montgomery and Victoria Saig
John and Kelly Ginn
Mackenzie Harris and Faith Pool
Linda Spiese and Sara Robinson
Maria Williams and Sara Kelly
Kelsey, Jane Ellen and Gary Jones
Heather Sappenfield and Brooke Ballard
Levy Dermatology Holiday Open House
Shira and Dr. Alan Levy
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February 2020
Kimberly Schratz and Taylor Page
Ali Norrid and Chelsea McCurren
Sarah Britt-Layton and Pat Britt
Lynn Dittman and Lauren Plyler
Crossword
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February
RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS
1 Scat! 5 Bulges 10 Patsy 13 Sprint 14 Broken down 15 Organization that advocates individual rights (abbr.) 16 Dueling sword
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17 18 19 21 23 26 28 29 32
Beneficiary House topper Spoiled "Head and Shoulders" purpose Strike caller Public transport Shabby Final points Vienna ____ Choir 33 Afloat 34 Throat infection 36 Fastener 37 Raise one's shoulders 38 Want to expect 42 ____ Tuck 43 Sailors "hey" 44 Sandwich Shop 46 Football field marker 49 Stone bearing an inscription 51 Fib 52 Unpaired 53 Stir fry sauce 57 Total monetary value of a country's goods and services (abbr.) 59 Subdivision 60 Jargon 62 Repeat 66 Particularly variety 67 Marriage site 68 Payable 69 Before (prefix) 70 Spills 71 Not any
February 2020
DOWN 1 Certain compass direction 2 Cool 3 Miner's goal 4 Brand of sandwich cookie 5 Enjoyed oneseld 6 Spanish "one" 7 Tend to 8 Entreaty 9 Was looked at 10 The "S" in BSA 11 Held high 12 Bloated 15 Orderly arrangement 20 Hoover's org. 22 Let go 23 Salt Lake City locale 24 Plateau 25 Obama's post 27 Japanese dish 30 Chart 31 Animal without a home 32 Panhandle 35 Down in the boondocks 37 ___ Lanka 38 Movie 2001's talking computer 39 Cleveland locale 40 Small lake 41 Ogled 42 Strip the skin off
44 Mock 45 Exclusive 47 Hardships 48 Lair 49 Fallen tree remains 50 Doimingo was one of three 54 Alack's partner 55 Terminate 56 Within 58 Lowest in rank 61 Slot 63 Naval rank 64 Egg layer 65 Lyric poem
COMIC CONS •
February
W
hen I was a kid comic books actually meant comic books and not movies. Most of the biggest grossBy Dennis Phillippi ing movies of the last decade have been based on comics, but I only know a handful of adults who read them, and those aren’t enough people to put a billion dollars worth of rear ends in movie theater seats. The adults I know who read comics don’t have enough friends between them to field a basketball team. What friends they do have wouldn’t be able to dribble a basketball at gunpoint, but that’s a different column. The idea that so many blockbuster movies have been based on material that hardly anyone reads is a pretty bizarre phenomenon. It would be like huge hit movies being based on microwave manuals or mattress labels. But when I was a kid everyone read comics, because comics were aimed at kids. Everyone I knew was a kid, so as far as I knew everyone read comics. We talked about them all the time, we traded them, we shoplifted them. Whether The Hulk could beat Superman was a frequent, lively debate. Back in the 1970’s DC was the reigning power in the comic books world and Marvel was the upstart kid that seemed to spend as much time making fun of DC as it did spinning exciting superhero stories. People have forgotten that at one point the founder of Marvel Comics, Stan Lee, admitted that SpiderMan was really a parody of Superman. He literally asked himself; “What is the dumbest name for a superhero possible?” He came up with SpiderMan, a scrawny teenager who was bitten by a radioactive spider and got the powers of a spider. When you look at it in that light, Spider-Man does seem pretty ridiculous. I guess Grasshopper-Man or Worm-Boy seemed too plausible. Of course, it’s all ridiculous. All superheroes wore, and still do wear, costumes. They might call them uniforms now, but they’re costumes and they always will be. A uniform is more of an outfit that denotes membership in an organization or the military. The Flash’s red tights do not fit that definition. They’re tights. That’s a costume. You know, like what Hamlet or Robin Hood wore. It wasn’t until Tim Burton made the first modern superhero movie, “Batman” in 1989, that anyone thought to turn the tights into rubber muscle suits. Before that the heroes in comics wore
But when I was a kid everyone read comics, because comics were aimed at kids. Everyone I knew was a kid, so as far as I knew everyone read comics. We talked about them all the time, we traded them, we shoplifted them. Whether The Hulk could beat Superman was a frequent, lively debate. tights because it showed off their muscles. Michael Keaton in “Batman” didn’t have any muscles, so they just built them into the suit. After that, every movie and TV superhero has worn some variation on what are obviously fake abs. When we were kids we never thought to question why superheroes wore tights, because they always had. We never even asked why they tended to wear their underwear on the outside of their tights. That’s just how it worked. Superman even had a belt for his outside underpants and we just went along with it because we were dumb kids.
RSVPhillippi
There are many, many issues with my personal superhero, Superman. For one thing; he is boring. Superman is super-ethical, which makes him dull. He has one weakness, Kryptonite, which is composed of fragments of his home planet of Krypton. For some reason, even though Krypton was supposed to be on the other side of the galaxy’ there seemed to be an awfully lot of pieces of it laying around on Earth. Still, aside from magic, Superman’s other rarely encountered weakness, only one thing can hurt the guy, and that’s pretty uninteresting. There is, of course, the fact that Superman has the most irksome disguise of any superhero — a pair of glasses. I wear glasses, but when I don’t have them on everyone still recognizes me. And it’s always bugged me that we don’t know how Superman shaves or gets a haircut. His supersuit was supposedly sewn by his mom out of the Kryptonian superblankets he arrived in as a superbaby. Um, not to put too fine a point on it, but how did she cut and sew the superblankets? Did they arrive with a supersewing kit? You would not believe how much the preceding sentences blew up my spellcheck. There was a time in the 1950’s and 60’s when a lot of superheroes got teen sidekicks. There was a lot of hubbub about grown men running around with kids that were also wearing tights. There were even, I am not making this up, Congressional Hearings about the issue. Us kids never thought there was anything weird about teen sidekicks, they were just someone we could especially identify with —a kid with superpowers. Sure Aqualad wore orange and green tights, but he could breathe underwater and talk to fish. That’s a pretty cool kid. When I was 14 I had something like 300 comic books. They were mostly in pristine condition, and I had been collecting them since I was about seven. Then I met Molly Wharton who was 16 and cute as a Supergirl. Molly was two years older than me at an age where that’s a big age gap and I thought it was important to show her that I was too mature for comic books, so I gave her little brother my entire collection. Right now I can hear the collective gasps of my comic book friends. Yes, I gave away what would almost certainly be thousands of dollars worth of comics, but I was pushing up on Molly and thought her little brother would recognize a bribe when he got one. He didn’t. She never noticed the gesture. I’m not sure she ever noticed me. And I bet that brat didn’t even take care of “Daredevil” #1. The things we do for love.
February 2020
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February
RSVPast Memphis Kennel Club's Dog Show
1931
P
ictured here is Memphis native Lillian Cunny and her two prize wire-haired terriers, Tam and Mop Top Susie. This is from a photo shoot at the Memphis Kennel Club’s 1931 all-breed dog show, which took place at the New Women's Building at the Fairgrounds, now the Creative Arts Center. Photograph courtesy of John D. McKinnon, Jr. 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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February 2020