Jockeys & Juleps
Carnival Memphis
Gift of Life Gala
2500 Johnson Rd.
4600 Maple Glen Ct.
2036 Flowers Oak Cv.
Germantown, TN 38139
Lakeland, TN 38002
Germantown, TN 38138
$1,350,000
$599,900
$641,000
Elegant yet with the feeling of home. New Orleans ambiance is expressed from the 2 acres of professional landscaping with fountains, brick paths, a grand pool, lovely peaceful setting. 5 BR, 5.1 bath home, over 7500 sf,plus 4 car garage with gated entry. If a Chef's kitchen is your dream this one has it! Sub-zero Refrigerator, double oven by VIking & Wolf Gas cook top. Roof is 7 years old! A Special feature is the ELEVATOR! One of a kind glass art panels in the downstairs Master Retreat with a closet that is breathtaking! Master up has added suite as well. More than can be described here! A peaceful setting that has been truly loved!
Luxurious French style home designed for entertaining with 4 bedroom/4.5 bath & bonus room & Crestron Smart Home system. 3 tiered 7.1 Dolby theater. Stunning lighted flagstone courtyard with fireplace & lighted fountain overlooking conservation green space. Chef's kitchen granite counters & soft close drawers. This is a stunning home! Check out YouTube Video.
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Patty Everitt 901.487.7709 peveritt@ collins-maury.com
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Bill Maury 901.751.4311 maury@ collins-maury.com
Amazing French Country home In the heart of Germantown. Minutes from Saddle Creek and East Memphis, this home is move-in ready with master and second bedroom down. This home has beautiful hardwoods, chef's kitchen with large hearth room which overlooks park-like setting in well landscaped backyard, covered patio, 3 car garage, irrigation, large bedrooms throughout, large bonus room and office upstairs.
Nancy Huddleston
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
901.484.9494 huddleston@ collins-maury.com
12379 Cascabel Ln.
934 Toscana Park Ct.
9085 Riveredge Dr.
Collierville, TN 38017
Memphis ,TN 38117
Memphis, TN 38018
$572,000
$610,000
$734,000
2019 New Build in Premier neighborhood of Spring Creek Ranch by Artisan Custom Homes. Elegant country living! No city taxes. Top-end neighborhood amenities: pool/tennis/lake/golf. Just minutes from Collierville Town Square.
You will fall in love with this fantastic home! Custom-built in a prestigious East Memphis gated community, it boasts 4 bedrooms (3 en-suite) plus an office with stunning bespoke woodwork! Gorgeous chef's kitchen with a huge island and Bosh appliances, spacious rooms and walk-in closets, 2 fireplaces, irrigation system, deck, surround system throughout, Crestron Home Automation System: this home has it all! Call today for a private showing!
Enjoy your summer evenings hosting your tennis group or a pool party. This summertime resort has room for everyone with over 7000 sq. ft , 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. Luxury Master suite down with updated master bath and dressing area. Large rec room overlooks your 4 acres, salt water pool and lighted tennis court. 5 car garages plus workshop area. Don't miss this opportunity to create memories for a lifetime.
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist ©
Marty Smith
Alie Jones
901.674.1031 msmith@ collins-maury.com
901.550.5235 jones@ collins-maury.com
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
CONTENTS July 2019
Features
Signature Memphis • 12
StreetSeen • 18
Ben Johnson Team Manager for the Memphis Redbirds
Matthew Hasty Broadening his artistic horizons
StreetSeen • 20
RSVPhillippi • 49
Sam Bomarito Co-owner and General Manager of Pete & Sam’s
My Great Sports Story I was there when Mark McGwire hit infamous 61st home run.
Events
Dick Klenz and Carol Straughn
Memphis Moments • 22, 23, 30, 31, 32, 33, 40, 42, 44 & 46
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Cecilia Walker and Curtis Heffington
Jockeys and Juleps • 14 Guests enjoyed an afternoon of socializing and Derby-watching.
Mace and David Gearhardt
Carnival Memphis • 24 Carnival Week began in style with the Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball
Teresa and Bill Bullock
Gift of Life Gala• 34 Honoring those who give to the National Kidney Foundation
Cover Photo: Catherine and Virginia Owen at Carnival Memphis. Photo by Don Perry
RSVP Staff Volume XXV • Number VII
July 2019 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 Virginia M. Davis 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, 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
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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RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2019 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
From the Editor
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July
S
ummer and baseball just go together. The words “Take me out to the ball game” apply whether you taking the field as a team member, coaching a Little Leaguer or cheering for a local team. We are so fortunate to have the Memphis Redbirds as our home team. The Redbirds came back this season as the reigning Triple-A National Champions. The Memphis Redbirds are one of nine Minor League Baseball affiliates of the St. Louis Cardinals. With 70 home games this season, 12 of them taking place in this month, there are plenty of opportunities for you to cover your bases and get in the swing of things. With special promotions like “All-You-Can-Eat Ribs Night,” “Woof Wednesdays,” “Throwback Thursdays,” and “Prairie Farms Ice Cream Sundays,” there’s fun taking place both on and off the field. And don’t forget, just like the pros, kids run the bases on Sundays after home games. Mark your calendar for July 3 and 13 when you can see the night skies light up after the game with a fantastic fireworks show. Want to know more? Check out our Signature Memphis profile to learn about Ben Johnson, a native Memphian and former St. Louis Cardinals outfielder, who is the new Memphis Redbirds’ manager for the 2019 season. Another summer tradition in Memphis is outdoor music concerts. On July 13, the Live at the Garden series is bringing The Doobie Brothers to the Memphis Botanic Garden. And on July 20, the annual Blues on the Bluff, a fundraiser for WEVL FM 89.9, is showcasing the talents of the Ghost Town Blues Band, The MDs, and Lightnin' Malcolm on the grounds of the National Ornamental Metal Museum. More local talent is showcased in our StreetSeen profiles. Sam Bomarito, a second-generation family member of the good folks who founded Pete & Sam’s Italian Restaurant, talks about some of their time-honored traditions and dishes on a few new developments as well. For artist Matthew Hasty, the sky is the limit as he broadens his horizons. Hasty’s artwork is showing up in public spaces and private collections from Midtown to places around the globe. So get out — have a ball — tune in to live music — and enjoy some of the culinary and artistic delights that are unique to our community.
Emily Adams Keplinger editor@rsvpmagazine.com
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JOHN WEST
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Signature Memphis
July
Ben Johnson Team Manager for the Memphis Redbirds Hometown: Memphis, TN Favorite Song(s): “Purple Rain” and “Solsbury Hil” Your Lucky Charm: A Buckeye Your Best Quality: Self-evaluator A Nonliving Celebrity/Role Model You Would Invite to Dinner: Steve McNair Your Favorite Memphis “Thang”: Memphis in May Favorite Place
to
Travel: San Francisco
Best Memphis Hangout: Beale Street First Car You Owned: 1986 Chevy Silverado Place You Go
to
Think: The gym
Favorite Southern Idiom: “Make hay while the sun shines” Best Advice You Ever Got: Work hard, help others, and have fun Your Most Annoying Habit: Being judgmental The Highlight
of
Your Day: Spending time with family
Proudest Moment(s)
of
Your Life: Getting married, having children,
and becoming a Major Leaguer
Who Would Play You
in a
Movie: Samuel L. Jackson
family during playing career
One Goal You’d Still Like
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Accomplish: Paying off my house
Photo by Steve Roberts
Something You’ll Never Live Down: Not making more time for
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Jockeys and Juleps
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Jenny and Nick Vergas
Luke and Elizabeth Leatherwood
An Equestrian Fundraiser
iving up to this year’s theme of “Big Hats, Bourbon and Bluegrass,” all three spotlighted-articles flooded the senses at the fourth annual Jockeys and Juleps event. The party, held at the Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy in Collierville, was the perfect set-up for guests to enjoy an afternoon of socializing and Derby-watching. During the pre-race festivities, ladies strolled around the center’s grounds showing off their spring fashions accessorized with delicate fascinators and lavish hats. Some creations were handmade, while others came from “across the pond,” like the blush-hued topper worn by Samantha Towne, who located her choice chapeau during at trip to England (and hand-carried it back home on the plane). For her, it was a case of select the hat, then find the dress. Many gentlemen were sporting the first of the season’s seersucker. And because of all-day showers, almost everyone was outfitted with either rain boots, cowboy boots or hunting boots. Silent auction items included many equestrian-themed works of art. Photographs by Richard Copley and Drew Doggett, among others, were also up for bid, along with a get-away to Asheville, NC, spa services for pets, and gift certificates to area businesses and restaurants. A “Giving Wall” was set up to allow party-goers to make donations See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
to provide riding lessons, summer camp sessions, and equestrian equipment. A selection of sweets were provided in the room housing the silent auction. Derby-themed cookies from black-eyed Sue bakery in Memphis, handcrafted pralines from Leon’s Candies in Nashville, and julep and bourbon cupcakes by Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery in Collierville offered guests just the right amount of sugar to keep up their stamina as they prepared to cheer for their horse of choice in the 145th Kentucky Derby. At the covered pavilion, food stations and bars dotted the perimeter of the ring, offering tasty tidbits like sliders, charcuterie and a tater tot bar. True to race tradition, floral arrangements featured red roses. Mint Juleps were the drink of the day along with a vodka-spiked fruit punch. There was also a Vodka Bar sponsored by Old Dominick and a Bourbon Bar by Athens Distributing. Event chairs for this year’s Jockeys and Juleps were Lee and Margaret Alexander, Charles and Judy Burkett, Bryan and Kim Jordan, and Bryan and Courtney Smith. Honorary chairs were Carolyn and Kent Brown, whose son, Parker, is a participant in the Southern Reins program. All proceeds benefited Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy.
Keith and Morgan Melancon
Diane and Richard Copley
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Don Perry
Tim and Rachel Landsdown
Sander and Holly Snowden
Kim and Johnny Pitts
Barbara Patronis, Al Owings and Barbara Parham
Albert and Lelia Green
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Tanya and Mark Hart
Aparna and Chris Narayanan
Kaitlyn Everroad with Judy and Charles Burkett
Peter and Allison Lemm
Rob and Kelly Shurley
Charlie Russell, Stacey Haney, Tim Morgan and Angela Russell
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Quitman Deloach and Kendal Gill
Pat and Jan Dickey
Valerie Calhoun and Sandi Bellanti
Tyler and Lauren Cannon
Ann Moore, Tanna Bruce, Robin Borczon and Darla Bruce
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Jockeys and Juleps
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Courtney and Bryan Smith
Todd and Raina Laessig
Mason and Ben Cooper
Greg and Susie Gregory
George and Blair Connor
Parker and Carolyn Brown with Ronald Penn
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Eric and Brittany Henry
Ashley and David Wallace
Tim Brennan and Lindsay Reed
Metrick and Jackie Houser
Sara Beth Raab with Cameron and Duncan Howell
July
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
Matthew Hasty Broadening his artistic horizons
July
B
• StreetSeen
orn in Memphis, Matthew Hasty’s early childhood took place in the University of Memphis area. His mother worked as a cosmetic buyer for a downtown department store, but was an artist at heart. Matthew remembers her working on paintings, drawings, watercolors and oils in a style he termed “figurative symbolic surrealism.”
“I had access to all of my mother’s artistic tools and art books,” recalled Matthew. “She also made a point of taking me to art museums as often as possible.” When Matthew was 6 years old, he and mother left Memphis and began an odyssey that took them, first to Ft. Worth then Dallas and later onto New Orleans. Each stop along the way broadened Matthew’s exposure to art. Upon graduating high school, Matthew enrolled in the Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. After he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, he set his sights on living in New York City. “I went to New York thinking that I was going to get into the art scene up there — but after living there for three years, I conceded that I wasn’t fully prepared for that after all,” said Matthew. “I moved back to Memphis and was still trying to find my voice through art. At the time I was painting all kinds things that were symbolic to me. I hadn’t tried landscapes yet. However, a friend showed me a picture “Moonlit Night on the Dnieper” by Russian artist Arkhip Kuindzhi. It was just captivating — and it changed everything for me.” Soon after, Matthew said that landscapes became a large part of his work.
“I came to realize that I’m mostly interested in the sky in these scenes. That’s what I get the most charged up about, working on atmospheric light.” “Not a lot of artists were doing landscapes at that time, but I saw the beauty in Memphis,” recalled Matthew. “I came to realize that I’m mostly interested in the sky in these scenes. That’s what I get the most charged up about, working on atmospheric light.” For that reason, most of Matthew’s paintings capture early morning light or sunsets. He also loves the way landscapes look by the light of the moon. When asked what he likes most about being an artist, his response was simply, “It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. I have a creative side that needs a voice. I try to appeal to people’s emotions, but not through some sort of hidden messages, rather through the sheer beauty of my scenes.” Matthew continued, “My inspiration is drawn from the luminous colors of nature, as well as the
works of landscape painters of the nineteenth century. Prominent landscape and marine painters of the Hudson River School, the Luminists, the Barbizon School, the Dusseldorf School and innumerable painters from Russia, such as Arkhip Kuindji, Isaac Levitan, and Ivan Aivazovsky, are some of my strongest influences.” In the last year, Matthew has expanded his art in another way. He has moved from his home studio to a space at Marshall Arts. “The interaction with other artists is enjoyable and inspiring, too,” said Matthew. “I like the feeling of being a part of a community of artists.” Additionally, being at Marshall Arts has afforded Matthew the space to work on larger projects, like the pair of paintings, each measuring 6.5 feet by 18 feet, that will soon be placed in the new Shorb Tower at Methodist University Hospital. Other works by Matthew are in homes of local individual collectors, as well as the corporate headquarters of Regions Bank, International Paper and at Interim Restaurant. As for his plans for the future, Matthew said he has a show planned for October in Hot Springs.“Also, I’d like to travel and paint scenes from Italy, France and Spain,” said Matthew. “I may be trading cotton fields for vineyards — but the skies are gorgeous wherever you go.”
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Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
SAM BOMARITO
Co-owner and General Manager of Pete & Sam’s
July
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StreetSeen
“My father, Sam, started the restaurant with his brother, Pete, and now I’m a co-owner with my brother, Michael. And some of our employees have been with us for 25 years, so they are very much like family.”
S
am “Sammy” Bomarito, 50, is such a fixture in the Memphis community that it seems like he must have always been here — but, that’s not the case. He grew up on a family farm in Independence, Mississippi (about 30 miles from Memphis) and spent his later childhood years (grades 6 - 12) in Murray, Kentucky. It was not until he enrolled in the University of Memphis and started working full-time at his father’s restaurant, Pete & Sam’s, that Bomarito put down his own Memphis roots. But he said that he always felt he would go into the family business.
“It was pretty much always my plan to become part of our restaurant,” recalled Bomarito. “My father, Sam, started the restaurant with his brother, Pete, and now I’m a co-owner with my brother, Michael. We have a couple of cousins who are working with us, too. And some of our employees have been with us for 25 years, so they are very much like family.” When asked about his first memories of helping out in a kitchen, Bomarito shared that with his mother, Tru, raising four children, it seemed like there was always someone in the kitchen stirring something, and that’s where he got his start. Without formal culinary training, Bomarito learned classic Italian cuisine from timehonored recipes passed down through generations of his family. One dish that has become his specialty is ravioli. “I’m in charge of making all of our the ravioli, that includes the meat fillings, as well as the home-made pasta,” said Bomarito. “First, we cook 150 pounds of meat, a mixture of beef and pork. When that cools, we grind it up with a dry mix
of seasoning and parmesan cheese. Then we start making the dough, 60 pounds at a time, and run that through our pasta machine. It takes about an hour and a half to prepare 150 pounds of meat and turn it into approximately 10,000 ravioli, and I do that on a weekly basis. Some of the ravioli are served in the restaurant and some of it is frozen and packaged, available for take-out.” Bomarito said that another family recipe is used to make their meat gravy. “My dad got the recipe from his parents and we have never changed it,” continued Bomarito. “We use a mixture of beef and pork and really quality Stanislaus brand tomatoes, cooking 30 gallon batches four or five times a week.” There’s no doubt that Pete & Sam’s has developed a loyal following over the years. Generations of families have followed the Bomaritos from the first location near Airways Boulevard and Alcy Road in 1948, to Airways and Lamar, and ultimately to the current location on Park Avenue, where the restaurant has been since 1960. When asked what was his favorite thing
about Pete & Sams, Bomarito replied, “Most of all, I love the family atmosphere we offer. We know so many of our customers by name, both our regulars and those who celebrate their special occasions with us.” Indeed, Pete & Sam’s is based on traditions. But recently the Bomaritos have shaken things up a bit. There are no changes to their high-quality Italian dishes, but extensive renovations after a fire in December 2017 showcase renovated interiors and a newly added bar. “Our customers seem to really like the new bar,” said Bomarito. “We designed it to be cozy and comfortable, with an ‘old school’ feel. We get a lot of comments saying it is like it has always been there.” As a dinner-only restaurant, other changes involve expanding their services to onsite catering for special events. To learn more about Pete & Sam’s, check out their website, peteandsams.com, or follow along on their Instagram and Facebook pages.
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Memphis Moment
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July
Memphis Symphony League The Wind Beneath Our Wings Luncheon
M
embers of the Memphis Symphony League and their guests gathered at the Memphis County Club for the organization’s annual luncheon. The group dined on roasted chicken and bow tie pasta with garlic chips, diced tomatoes and asparagus tips topped with an herbal white wine sauce. Chocolate bread pudding with vanilla Anglaise ended the meal on a sweet note. Memphis Symphony League President Betty Weiss welcomed attendees and introduced Kevin Kern, Vice President of Communication Memphis Tourism, as the event’s Master of Ceremonies. Sam Graham, CEO of Diversified Trust, gave the Invocation. Musical entertainment was provided by The Memphis Children’s Chorale, directed by Terri Theil, and accompanied by Molly Pennington. Peter Abell, President and CEO of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO) presented the 2019 Hebe Award to Paul and Linnea Bert for their outstanding contributions to the arts. At the conclusion of the luncheon, Maestro Robert Moody and MSO members performed a musical tribute to Josie Todd. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Carolyn and Scott Heppel with Summer Godman
Liz Simonian, Kathy Gardner and Carol Clouch
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Margaret and Sam Graham with Billie Jean Graham
Donna Flinn, Linda Dervch, Katherine Godoy and Mary Beth Bryce
Jessica Robinson and Joyce Ruby
Mary Pat Custer and Vicki Singh
Ellen Rolfes and Susan Robinson
Kathy Sapp and Eula Horell
Elisa Marus and Sally Perry
Nancy and Rodgers Menzies
Paul Bert and Jean de Frank
Sharon McDonough and Lura Turner
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Memphis Moment
Green Shoe Gala Benefiting Shelby Farms Park
T
he Green Shoe Gala took place at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms. Presented by First Tennessee Foundation, the event included cocktails, dinner and dancing, games, and an after party complete with silent disco. Guests enjoyed a seated dinner created by Chef de Cuisine Schuyler O’Brien of A Moveable Feast and Hog Wild Catering. Ron Childers and Joyce Peterson served as the evening’s emcees and led the crowd through a live auction. A whiskey and wine pull, a Kendra Scott jewelry pull and a silent auction also added to the evening’s coffers. “The Green Shoe Gala is our largest annual fundraiser for Shelby Farms Park + Greenline,” said Angie Whitfield, Communications Manager for the park. “It takes $14,000 a day to operate our park, so we are extremely grateful for the support of everyone who came out for this year’s gala, as well as those who support us with their memberships and donations.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Brenda and Greg Duckett with Ann Marie Wallace
Ron and Jan Coleman with Belinda and Calvin Anderson
Franck and Hanna Oysel
Nina Gardner and Liz Barksdale
Ruby Zielinski and Zach Kremer
Dave and Toni Evans with Randa Rosenblum and Evan Mann
Dana and David Dye
Yancy Villa-Calvo and Mauricio Calvo
Austin Henyon and Abe Powell
Bonnie and David Thornton
Janie and Bruce Hopkins with Jaime Deal
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Carnival Memphis
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Carnival Memphis
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Jeff and Floy Cole
Michael and Dr. Shelley Thannum
Crown & Sceptre Ball
arnival Week began in grand style with the annual Crown & Sceptre Coronation Ball. Dressed to the nines, members of Carnival Memphis’ Royal Court and its Grand Krewes gathered at the Memphis Hilton for an elaborate presentation of the King and Queen of Carnival, along with the Royal Court. Although each of the Grand Krewes hold coronation balls to celebrate their own royal courts, this white tie affair was the occasion when the new King and Queen of Carnival ascended to their thrones. Guests started the evening with cocktails before heading into the lavishly decorated dining room to take their seats at tables elegantly set with dashes of chartreuse, silver, turquoise, and bright pinks against black tablecloths. Lilies provided a lovely touch to the centerpieces, as well as a delightful fragrance. The focus of the room was the golden-hued thrones, and all eyes were upon King Robert Vernon Berry and Queen Catherine Tabor Owen as they were presented, followed by the charming young Royal Pages. Members of the Loyal Order of Scarabs formed part of the coronation procession. The Scarabs are a group of young men who served as the Royal Guard for Their Majesties,
the King and Queen of Carnival. The 2019 Royal Court included 45 princesses of Carnival, beautifully dressed in white gowns – truly the “fairest of the land.” In keeping with Carnival tradition, the green-clad Boll Weevils concluded the presentation with a comical skit. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal complemented with wine, followed by dancing to the lively sounds of the Jimmy Church Revue. Carnival Memphis has promoted the commerce of the Mid-South since 1931 and celebrated a selected business industry each year. In 2019 Carnival Memphis honored the Home Furnishings and Décor Industry. In addition, all Carnival and Grand Krewe Royalty participated in their community involvement program called the Carnival Children’s Charity Initiative, three local children’s charities are selected by Carnival and the Grand Krewes, begun in 1999. This year’s charities were Neighborhood Christian Centers, Palmer Home for Children, and Porter-Leath. “Since 1999 we’ve raised over $2.8 million, with matching funds, and we added a record amount (*) to that total during this year’s Carnival Week,” said Ed Galfsky, Executive Director of Carnival Memphis.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Ben and Beth Buffington
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Stephanie Koshak and Valerie Morris
Story by Gaye Swan Photos by Don Perry
Carl and Trish Ring
Whitney and Jennie Robbins with Smith Mallory
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Brad Stafford and Natalie Davis
July 2019
Liza, Thomas and Stacey Hussey
David and Mace Gearhardt
July
Mike and Martha Hess
• Carnival Memphis
Patricia Milliken and John Linder
Stephenie, Sarah and Anthony Ward
Jeff Box and Carla Albonetti
Sam Zalowitz and Kathleen Laflore
Beautiful and lasting memories are as simple as
rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our website. If you’re looking for a photo that one of our photographers took at a major social event featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available online. Just go to our site, click on the event and remember the password: rsvp. Leslie Hathcock, Elizabeth Gaia, Kristen Crone, Emmy DeLasho and Hallie Flanagan
July 2019
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Carnival Memphis
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July
King Robert Vernon Berry and Queen Catherine Tabor Owen
Joey and Amy Dudek
Jack Powell and Elizabeth Cole
Carla Albonetti and Devoe Burford
Chip And Sarah Trouy
Will, Julia, Virginia and Whit Owen
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July 2019
Karen Johnston and Kirby Floyd
Sandra and Judge Ron Lucchesi
Jennifer and Joel Hobson
Greg and Marianne Stiel
Peyton and Lockie Wade with Laura and Buddy Dearman
July
July 2019
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Carnival Memphis
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July
Nan Buck and Annette Scott
Charles and Elizabeth Mitchell
Melissa and John Gwin
James and Elizabeth Wolfe
Connie and Art Cruthirds
Harold and Dawn Graeter
Lisa, Molly Claire and Gaylon Lawrence
Lucy Currence, Sally Chambers, Ann Mills Cobb and Hagen Weiss
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July 2019
Ryan Harris and Katie Jenkins
Christian and Davis Owen
Ellie Rhea, Lilly Hussey and Mary Allen Wallace
July 2019
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Memphis Moment
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July
Women of Achievement 35th Annual Reception and Awards
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undreds of people gathered at the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis as Women of Achievement (WOA) celebrated its 35th anniversary of educating, celebrating and inspiring women. WOA founder Deborah Clubb welcomed the crowd and WMC News anchor Kontji Anthony hosted the awards ceremony. This year nine women were honored for their change-making leadership. Estelle Axton and Cornelia Crenshaw were recognized with the Heritage Award, Mildred Richard-Edwards received the Courage Award, and Rachel Coats Greer and Mary E. Mitchell were the recipients of the Determination Award. Maxine Starling Strawder was honored with the Initiative Award, Carol Danehower received the Vision Award, Gabriela Salina was the recipient of the Heroism Award and Jane Hooker was recognized with the Steadfastness Award. The event also served as the unveiling of a new Memphis Women’s History Trail, with a printed guide, online historic content and soon, a mobile app, organized by Women of Achievement historians. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Dorothy Gunther Pugh and Maxine Strawder
Lisa Moore and Deborah Clubb
Pan Awsumb, Bettie Northcross and Emily Neff
Kim Danehower and Valerie Barris
Mayor Jim Strickland and Paula Casey
Peggy Caffrey and Beryl Wight
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July 2019
Africa Gonzalez McCloy and Amy Mulroy
Leila Hamdan and Josalyn Hoyle
Pat Morgan and Nikki Gibbs
Devin Dearmore and Savannah Thompson
Margaret and James Toles
July
• Memphis Moment
Investing in a Better Memphis Orion Federal Credit Union New Headquarters
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rion Federal Credit Union has moved their corporate headquarters from 7845 Highway 64 to the historic Wonder Bread bakery building at 400 Monroe. This relocation breathes new life into a building that has been vacant since 2013 and serves to anchor this important downtown neighborhood. Nearly 150 Orion employees, executives and guests were on hand for the official ribbon-cutting celebration. As guests mingled and took in the view from the observation deck overlooking the city, two full bars served premium libations to complement the delicious fare from Wade & Co. caterers. Orion’s board of directors and executive team made the move to address long-term blight and drive economic development in the Edge district. Orion CEO Daniel Weickenand said, “When considering a new location for our headquarters, we saw an opportunity to benefit Memphis and the communities we serve.” Orion Federal Credit Union was founded in Memphis in 1957. Story and Photos by Bill Bannister Floyd Brummett and Calvin Anderson
Michelle Fowlkes and Belinda Anderson
Alton Cryer and Chris Smith
Ted Townsend with Shelby Peranich and Ryan Ramkhelawan
Casey Condra and Mike Adams
Carol Hagen and Avneet Cheema
Maritza Anderson with Andre Fowlkes and Kevin Adams
Philip Jones with Kim and Frank Stallworth
Fatima and Rick Jarrar
Gary Prosterman with Daniel Weickenand and Stuart Harrington
Verity Goodell and Courtney Griesenauer
Carrie Jones and Sara Adams
July 2019
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Memphis Moment
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July
The Society of Entrepreneurs Annual Awards Banquet
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uests arriving at The Society of Entrepreneurs 27thAnnual Dinner and Awards Banquet were greeted with delectable Beef Wellington, coconut shrimp appetizers and a glass of wine in the lobby of the Holiday Inn - University of Memphis. Upstairs, the ballroom was decorated in glowing shades of gold and blue with delicate floral arrangements on each table. The Gerry Finney Trio provided live music. A seated dinner was served before the induction program for three new members; Christopher W. Bird, Dr. Steve Charles and Carl D. Ring. Robert Wang was honored as the recipient of the 2019 Master Entrepreneur Award. The Society of Entrepreneurs was founded to foster the development of the entrepreneurial spirit and to recognize the contributions of area entrepreneurs. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan Kerri Campbell, Hope Johnson and AnDrea Hargrove
Katherine and Bill Kaelin
Deme Yuan and Aayush Thakur
Audra and Brady Block
Kathy and Tom Lannan
Walker and Ann Uhlhorn with Don Hutson
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July 2019
Eugene Wang with Susan and Robert Wang
Alton and Karlisa Cryer
Kim Cherry, Rudi Scheidt and Pearson Crutcher
Mary and Daniel Dalto
Barbara and Jim Phillips
Jagger Sudbury and Jamie Sudbury with Jane and Bob Adams
July
• Memphis Moment
Party on the Patio Collierville Chamber of Commerce
Lynn Hays, Will Hays and Rod Lovelace
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he Collierville Chamber of Commerce hosted its first “Patio on the Party” recently, for members and friends under a beautiful summer sky. A crowd of 250 enjoyed an assortment of catered wonders provided by Collierville eateries, and participated in an evening of networking.”
Robyn Tyler, Missy Marshall and Marianne Dunavant
Mayor Stan Joyner, Linda Joyner and Ann Heuberger
Mempops
Wendy VanCleve, Matt VanCleve and Vivian Jeans
Greg Harris and Mark Heuberger
Junior League of Memphis Garden Club (Seated, from left) Sarah Richardson and Gay Landaiche, (From bottom left, clockwise) Sally Perry, Christy Cornell, (standing from left) Melanie Gillespie, Charlotte Gillespie, Didi Dwyer, Madeline C. Nunn, Mary Alice West, Mary Autumn Goerke, Karen Johnston and Samantha Towne Ruleman and Deborah Tipton
(Seated, from left) Kim Pitts, Nancy Coe, Buff Adams, Pam Montesi, (back row, from left) Jenny Vergos, Trish Ring and Leslie Drinan
Anne Snowden, Dinah Makowsky, Elizabeth Martin, Nicole Jones and Betty Weiss
(From bottom, clockwise) Foy Collidge, Mary Joy Knowlton, (From bottom left, clockwise) Beverly McClatchy, Pamela Susan Wilson, Nancy Klepper, Bobbie Bessire, Judy Parker, Williams, Ellen Kirkpatrick, Suzanne Brown, Jan Cornaghie, Patty Welch and Tracy Shane Kramer Lucie Rutledge, Andrea Stratton and Anne Brand
Celebrations in Table Design
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s the doors opened into The Goldsmith Room at the Memphis Botanic Garden, a series of 19 tables came into view. Each table had its own theme, carried out in detail with centerpieces, dishware, stemware, tablecloths and toppers. The gathering was the Junior League of Memphis Garden Club’s inaugural “Celebrations in Table Design.” Proceeds from admissions and bids from a silent auction raised funds for the club’s community projects. Tablescape themes ranged from “Out of Africa” complete with an animal print tablecloth, dishes and stemware to “In An English Country Garden” featuring a silver tea service, violet-patterned china, crystal stemware, and an abundance of flowers arranged in a loose garden style. Other displays brought smiles with their play on words, like “Breakfast in Bed” which featured place settings arranged around the edges of a table with a headboard and “Geisha had to be There” which showcased an Ikebana arrangement and offered a pair of traditional Japanese sandals as party favors. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
July 2019
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Gift of Life Gala
July
Gift of Life Gala
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Adam and Karen Hamburger
Nimmi and Surgit Kamra
2019 National Kidney Foundation
he work of the National Kidney Foundation goes on every day of every year in the Mid-South. Through the tireless efforts of both physicians and volunteers, the mission of preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases and improving the health and well being of those affected by kidney disease is fulfilled by these dedicated individuals. Programs and events held year-round include Kidney Camp, the Kidney Bean 5K, the Chocolate Fantasy, Kidney Cars, KEEP Healthy, Your Kidneys and You, the Kidney Walk and the NKF Konica Minolta Golf Classic. One of the organization’s biggest fundraisers was recently held at The Peabody in the Skyway. The 2019 Gift of Life Gala brought together over 200 supporters and guests for a fabulous evening of dining, dancing and honoring those who give so generously of their time, talents and hard work to the National Kidney Foundation. The festivities began with a cocktail reception featuring hors d’oeuvres of tender Southern chicken skewers and mushroom tarts with goat cheese and fresh herbs. These tasty morsels complimented a spread of fresh fruits and cheeses. Guests also enjoyed libations from two fully stocked bars as they See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
began to peruse silent auction items. Treasures up for bids included a wide assortment of fine wines and liquors by Four Roses, Elijah Craig, Ghost River Gold and a bottle of small batch 1792. There were original oil paintings by Julie Hill, gift certificates from Living Health Day Spa and Southern Airways Express, an Oleg Cassini crystal dice paperweight, balcony seats for “Anastasia” at The Orpheum, a signed baseball by former Cardinal pitcher Jason Motte, and a 1960s era microphone used by CBS to broadcast the Danny Thomas Classic Golf Tournament. The Peabody’s rooftop was open for guests to take in a breathtaking sunset on the river before settling in for the official introductions by Gala Chair Susan O. Smith. Dinner began with a fresh hearts of Romaine salad, merlot poached pear, whipped fromage blanc, spiced pecans, Peruvian pepper and white balsamic vinaigrette. The evening’s duo entrée was a tender filet mignon with seared salmon, risotto cake and lemon asparagus in a roasted shallot cream sauce, followed by a mouth-watering dessert duo of Fresh Opera and Strawberry Pistachio Cakes. After the recognition of honorees, guests danced to the sounds of Funkytown.
Dennis and Vicky Juniors
Kristi Emmons Jones and Gary Jones
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Dr. Luis and Corinna Campos
Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Bailey and Ryan Deady
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Melissa Mooore and Michelle Floyd
July 2019
Christi Hanna, Vasanthi Balaraman and Rebecca Nenon
Dr. James and Laura Eason
Divorce is a bad choice, but it may be the best choice.
The more you know about divorce, the better decisions you will make about divorce.
More than thirty years ago, this philosophy led us to write our client guide to divorce. It was updated again this year and can be accessed on our website, aboutdivorce.com. Divorce is a tragedy. It is the end of a relationship that the parties intended to last a lifetime. That tragedy is compounded when a party comes to the process with inaccurate information. A small amount of time spent reading the relevant portions of the guide can save a lot of time, anger and money. Whole books are written on some of the topics we treat with a few paragraphs. Our hope is that neither you, nor anyone close to you, will need this information. The reality is that you probably know someone who needs this information so they can make a choice that is best for them. Larry Rice
Nick Rice
aboutdivorce.com Rice Divorce Team 901.526.6701 divorce@ricelaw.com
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Gift of Life Gala
July
Felicia Phillips and Alan Harris
Dominga and Dr. Jacinto Hernandez
Mashhud and Sharon Mirza
Cedric and Tammy Pate
Paula Rutledge, Ingrid Bolding and Tiffany Clay
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July 2019
Cynthia and Terry Lawrence
Dr. Peter and Christine Horton
Leland and Erica Burress
Jamie and Julie Hill
Ryan and Christine Helmick
Molly and Alan Hamburger with Paula Quarles
July
Dr. Marc and Elaine Stegman
Chester and Michelle Gilchrist
Brad and Kim Van Frank
Cathy and Martin Pantik
Drs. Willis and LaKisha Davis
Mona Wicks, Sherry Webb, Jami Brown and Muriel Rice
• Gift of Life Gala
Glenn and Dena Frazier
Martin and Gloria Carr
Drs. Vida Zare and Nosra Nezakatgoo
Sara Beth and George Silverman
Isabel, Andres and Elena Campos
July 2019
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July
John and Laura Reed
Ana Maria and Dr. Francisco Cebollero
Michael and Serena Davis
Christopher Gordon and Wilda Jeans
Karl and Stacey Farmer
Karen Montgomery, Tanya Warmbrod and Ann Jenkins
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July 2019
Theresa Kinman and Wakesha Watkins
Allyson Wilson and Randrea Wallace
Brock Kent and Cindy Cannon
Janet McClora and Katie Carter
Bowyer and Terri Freeman
Memphis Moment
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July
Hoedown for Hope Boot-iful Party Gives a Boost to Hope House
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icture four snoozing infants in a cheery daycare room. Nine toddlers play in a room nearby. Estimate how many fresh diapers it takes to accommodate the needs of 13 babes for five days a week in a year’s time. Hope House’s dedicated staff and volunteers changed 7,308 diapers during 2018, according to the nonprofit’s annual report. Hope House’s nationally accredited daycare and preschool programs for children affected by HIV and poverty require hefty investments in diapers, meals and classroom supplies. For the past five years, Hoedown for Hope has come to the rescue. The annual shindig raises money to help fund Hope House’s early childhood services programs. This year’s hoedown at Propcellar was themed “Red, White and Boots,” which occasioned the wearing of gingham, bandannas and cowboy hats. Guests enjoyed a buffet prepared by John Dawson and music by DJ Nugget. King’s Liquors donated wine.
Marc and Caitlin Berry, Lauren Berry, Trey and Garner Keppen, and Sam Johnson
Story and Photos by Virginia M. Davis
Carol Adams, Ruby Ellison, Mona Gaudin and Ora Burgs
Zac Easley and Cammie Carlson
Josh and Lacye Story
Betty Dupont and Allie Lindsey
Sciara Childress and Paula Thomas
Lisa Dawson, Amy Ball and Sarah Applebaum Alexis and Jordan Myers with Michael and Tina Niclosi
Brad and Anna Birkedahl
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Meka and Gary Brooks
July 2019
Hannah Hill and Lindsey Wagner
Marissa Clark and Sam Baldwin
Jaylisa Hudson, Jessica Cox and Sandy Howell
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Memphis Moment
July
Junior League of Memphis Carnival Princess Luncheon
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he elegance of Carnival Memphis was on grand display as the Junior League of Memphis (JLM) hosted a Carnival Princess Luncheon during Carnival Week. Young ladies and their mothers (and a few fathers) dressed in style for a lovely afternoon gathering, with some women wearing fashionable hats and fascinators. “Junior League and Carnival go hand-in-hand, in terms of community service,” explained Didi Dwyer, luncheon chairman. “At this event, we honored the Junior League’s princesses; JLM Princess Margaret ‘Maggie’ Muller, JLM Garden Club Princess Hannah Chandler, and our Germantown Charity Horse Show Princess Josie Butler.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Stephanie Hughes, Jenny Haddad and Betsy Scott
Hannah Chandler, Josie Butler, Didi Dwyer and Margaret Muller
Mary Helen Butler, Jennifer Chandler and Christy Muller
Elizabeth Farnsworth, Lizzie Ball, Julia Perry, Mollie Claire Lawrence, Curry Wilson and Rachel Kimery
Samantha Towne and Kim Pitts
Suzanne Oliphant, Ginger Owings, Connie Spencer and Joyce Nussbaum
Lillie Kay Mitchell, Ginger Collier and Patti Russell
Christy Cornell and Stacey Sears
Southern Junkers Vintage Market
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he Southern Junkers Vintage Market was the place to be for folks in search of rare collectibles and one-of-a-kind treasures. It was a curated sale that showcased Farmhouse Style, art and antiques, handmade items and “really cool junk.” With 55 dealers from seven states, booths featured painted furniture and vintage textiles mixed with china and glassware from bygone days. Vinyl records (LPs) and Victorian jewelry, some pieces incorporating British and French medals and medallions, proved that the allure of items from a range of time periods endures today.
Tracy Allocca and Jana Wilson
Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Calen and Holly Barber
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Holly and Brent Nichols
July 2019
Larry and Deb Atkinson
Lauren Currier, Brenley Currier and Brittany Petty
Lydia Sharpe and Anne Marie Simmons
Jaq Poteet and Cambrea Poteet
July
• Memphis Moment
A Red Carpet Affair Meritan Hosts First Annual Senior Citizen Prom
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Kyndal Hayes and Gary Jewel
Susan Murley and Charlie Belenky
roms are not just for high school seniors -- senior citizens everywhere enjoy joining the fun. That’s why Meritan, Inc. hosted a Senior Citizen Prom, a gala affair held at the Lichterman Nature Center. Guests walked a red carpet that led from their car door to the entryway with a stop for photos. Music and dancing beckoned partygoers in, and the lovely décor closely resembled prom nights many remembered from high school. The event included a silent auction, a photo booth, a character artist, and delicious food and beverages. A highlight of the evening was the crowning of the Prom King and Queen, Ray Williams and Martha Quesenberry, respectively, honoring the seniors who raised the most money for Meritan through the organization’s online crowd funding site. Meritan is an agency that has worked with seniors for nearly 60 years, with the goal of improving the well being of senior citizens and promoting their independence with quality and compassion. Story and Photos by Gaye Swan
Benji Smith and Mary Hines
Kyle Hayes and Chessie Biggam
Kelly Inman, Lisa Shurden and Brenda Grace
Martha Quesenberry and Ray Williams
Richard McNeil and Margaret McNeil
Beth Marczynski, Briana Brady, Tammy Pierce and Terilyn Blockman
Shawnese Rucks, Angela Lowe, Janet Chesnut and Pat Myers
Sheronda Jones and Alfred Dickson
Estella Taylor, Lenora Davis, and Ruby Harris
Letitia Wilson, Scott Murrell and Susan Szeto
July 2019
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Memphis Moment
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July
Memphis Garden Gala Apres Ski Garden-Inspired Dinner
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outed as the “coolest party of the year,” guests were invited to hit the slopes at Teton Trek at the Memphis Zoo for the third annual Memphis Garden Gala. The event, sponsored by Southeastern Asset Management, Inc., benefited Big Green Memphis, a nonprofit organization with a mission to build a healthier future for children through a network of Learning Gardens at 122 schools across the city. Encouraged to wear their best “chalet-chic” attire, party-goers turned out in cozy sweaters, leather leggings, fur-trimmed vests and boots, snow caps and goggles to have the “thyme” of their lives. Frosty cocktails were served before attendees were seated for a dinner featuring fare from local chefs Jose Gutierrez, Patrick Reilly, Will Byrd, Zach Thomason and Konrad Spitzbart. Apres Ski’s special musical guest was none other than Biff Gore, the recipient of The Voice’s coveted four-chair-turn-around response from the show’s judges. At a silent disco afterparty powered by Silent Events, revelers were encouraged to “dance to their own beet.”
Ty Bushart and Jason Foley with Leah and Phil Willcoxon
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos submitted by Big Green Memphis Connor Glennon and Kristen Rotenberry
Brooke Vogel and Matt Ortman
Missy and Nicholas Barnhart
Christie McGee and Meghan Green
Daryl Smith and Kontji Anthony
Mitchell and Emily Lindsey with Robyn Sharp, Jessie Williams, Breanne Jackson and Clayton Trice
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July 2019
Biff Gore
Helena and Jack Shannon
Donnie and Katherine Simmons
The Grizzline
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Memphis Moment
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July
Carnival Memphis 11th Annual Krewes for Kids
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he Grand Krewes of Carnival Memphis presented this year’s Krewes for Kids party at Crosstown Concourse. With a theme of “Play, Party, Give,” this FUNbelievable night was filled with food, libations and music. A silent auction staged in the Crosstown Concourse Theater gave party-goers plenty of options to support the Carnival Memphis Children’s Charity Initiative (CCI). The 2019 charities are Neighborhood Christian Centers, Palmer Home for Children and Porter Leath. Proceeds from a live auction added to the evening’s coffers with items up for bid such as box seats at The Orpheum to attend “Hamilton,” a dinner party on the porch at the home of Carnival Queen Catherine Owen in the charming Delta town of Tunica, a duck hunt at Coca Cola Woods, vacations to the Isle of Palms South Carolina and San Miguel, Mexico, and the opportunity to be a Boll Weevil for a day. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger Patti Russell, Sharon Ross and Ann Newell
Michel Allen, Sarah Laucirica and Elizabeth Martin
Jay and Laura Cofield
Laura and Kenny Charbonnet
Michael and Jessica Waters
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Donna Melton and Ed Galfsky
July 2019
Bart and Ashlee Reid
Katie and Tommy Stephenson
Jim and Mimi Taylor
Mike and Cynthia Cross
Julia Forrester and Charotte Gillespie
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Crossword
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RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS
18 Little Mermaid's love 19 Traveled by car 20 "as you __" 21 Lager 22 Buttocks, slang 24 Saliva 26 Dancer Rogers 27 Tooth covering 30 Crafts
1 Sacred song 6 George Bernard __ 10 Went to the bottom, as a ship 14 Reason 15 West African republic 16 Schema 17 Great ape 1
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ACROSS 1 Sacred song 6 George Bernard __ 10 Went to the bottom, as a ship 14 Reason 15 West African republic 16 Schema 17 Great ape 18 Little Mermaid's love 19 Traveled by car 20 "as you __" 21 Lager 22 Buttocks, slang 24 Saliva 26 Dancer Rogers 27 Tooth covering 30 Crafts 31 Houston resident 32 Indian, for one 33 Pro gridiron group 36 Employing 37 Expression of discovery 38 Knowing
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Work soil Tender Seaweed substance Tennis fault judger
July 2019
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1 Work soil 2 Tender 3 Seaweed substance 31 Houston5resident one-millionth of4 aTennis gramfault judger 5 one-millionth of a gram (abbrev) 32 Indian, for one (abbrev) 33 Pro gridiron group 6 Soft-finned fish 6 Soft-finned fish 7 Tortoise and the ___ 36 Employing 37 Expression of discovery and the8___ 7 Tortoise Boxer Muhammad 38 Knowing 9 Kansas city 8 Boxer Muhammad 40 Possessive pronoun 10 Small bunch of flowers Kansas city 41 Abash 9 11 Isolated Small bunch of flowers 43 Going10 fees? 12 Lowest point 44 Colored of eye Isolated 11part 13 Leg joint 45 Nothings 12 Lowest point 21 Feel unwell 46 Repents 23 Traps 13 Leg joint 49 Would like (for) 25 Antarctic birds 50 Loath21 Feel unwell 26 Wonderful 51 Agt. 23 Traps 27 Decorative needle case 52 Mined25metals Antarctic birds 28 Bird's home 56 Animal fat 26 Wonderful 29 WWII Allies enemy 57 Drink made with honey 30 case Throbs 59 Order27 Decorative needle 32 Fertile desert area 60 Muck28 Bird's home 33 Treaty organization 61 Prude 29 WWII Allies enemy 34 Gratis 62 Cosmetic giant Lauder 30 Throbs 63 Winged 35 Not as much
Possessive pronoun Abash Going fees? Colored part of eye Nothings Repents Would like (for) Loath Agt.. Mined metals Animal fat Drink made with honey Order Muck Prude Cosmetic giant Lauder Winged Yarn Adolescents
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Fertile desert area Treaty organization Gratis Not as much Old hand Usurp Nada Service __ cotta (clay) Command Piece slice __ matter Revile Assess Adam's garden Perceives with the eyes Epoch Obtain
39 Old hand 42 Usurp 45 Nada 46 Service 47 __ cotta (clay) 48 Command 49 Piece slice 50 __ matter 51 Revile 53 Assess 54 Adam's garden 55 Perceives with the eyes 58 Epoch 59 Obtain
MY ONE GREAT SPORTS STORY •
July
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n September 7, 1998, I was at By Dennis Phillippi Busch Stadium when Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals hit his 61st home run of the season, breaking the record for most home runs in a season set by Roger Maris in 1960. That is a fact. I watched him hit that home run through a grate on a television over a concession stand while standing outside of Busch Stadium, but no matter how you slice it; I was there. For those of you who don’t remember, here is a little history. A few years before that historic home run there had been a baseball strike, and understandably, the public was less than enamored of millionaire athletes claiming mistreatment by their millionaire team owners. It was unseemly. Since the strike baseball had lost most of its luster as “America’s Game” and instead had taken on a mantle of entitled babies that were paid staggering amounts of money to play a game few people were watching. After all, despite their prodigious gifts, baseball players were generally roughly the same physical size as most men. Or at least, that had always been the case. Then in the late 1990s a few players suddenly were striking physical specimens. They weren’t the everyday Joe who might be caught sneaking a smoke in the dugout. They were giants with forearms the size of Virginia hams and they were hitting home runs that were further than home runs had ever been hit before, and hitting them at a pace that had never been seen before. An argument can be made that one of these men was Ken Griffey Jr., but since Griffey didn’t figure into the main story and I have limited space, we’ll talk about two men, Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire. In the summer of 1998 these two men were both clearly going to break Maris’ record and when either of them came up to bat the whole world would stop. That is not an exaggeration. In airports, bars, bowling alleys, and anywhere else there might be a television, that TV was tuned to the game where one of them was playing and when one of them came up to bat someone would inevitably say, “Sosa’ up” and everything would grind to a stop so everyone could watch. It was unlike anything baseball had ever had happen before. Many people agree that the homerun race of 1998 saved baseball. The problem, of course, was that we were all complicit in the charade. These two men, and many other baseball players, had obviously been playing around in the chem lab and were now somehow
We spontaneously decided to drive to St. Louis to see McGwire’s Cardinals face Sosa’s Cubs. The scalped tickets were somewhere in the neighborhood of twelve thousand times more expensive than we expected ... Instead, we stood outside of the abandoned concourse, our fingers clinging to the grate of a security fence and watched McGwire hit his 61st home run of the season to pass Maris.
superhuman. We knew it. We ignored it. They were hitting five-hundred foot home runs, who cared how they were doing it? That September I was talking to a buddy of mine and we spontaneously decided to drive to St. Louis to see McGwire’s Cardinals face Sosa’s Cubs. My buddy was a Cubs fan. I was a Cardinals fan. I’m not a road-trip-with-a-buddy guy, but it was too tempting to resist. We left early the morning of the 7th, got to St. Louis, somehow found a reasonably priced room at the Marriott , and headed to the ballpark to
RSVPhillippi
score some scalped tickets. The game had been sold out for weeks, if not months. The scalped tickets were somewhere in the neighborhood of twelve thousand times more expensive than we expected. Instead, we stood outside of the abandoned concourse, our fingers clinging to the grate of a security fence and watched McGwire hit his 61st home run of the season to pass Maris. We planned to content ourselves with the flimsy claim that we were there. Then a couple came out, obviously leaving the game. I asked them why and they said they were on their way out of town, but had the tickets, and just wanted to see the home run. I asked how much they’d take for their ticket stubs and the guy informed me that it didn’t matter, in order to get back in with a ticket stub you had to have a hologram stamp on your hand. I offered face value for the stubs anyway and he accepted. This is where we get into some fuzzy ethical math. I told my buddy to follow my lead and I put my stub in my back pocket. As we approached the gate I started arguing with my friend saying that it wasn’t my fault our other friends hadn’t met us where they said they were. My buddy instantly understood where this was going and began to berate me for making us miss the most historic home run in history. During this time he was handing his stub to the gate attendant and I was digging mine out of my pocket, both of us bickering and ignoring the ticket taker. When he raised an objection, noting that we didn’t have stamps on our hands I gave every indication of having no idea what he was talking about and said no one had told us we needed any kind of stamp. That’s when he said something I will never forget. He said; “Well, if you fellas go back out make sure and get a stamp.” A few seconds later, shaking with a massive adrenaline dump, we were inside Busch Stadium. Following our ticket stubs we found ourselves not only inside the ballpark, but sitting almost on the front row of the lodge, directly behind homeplate. These were fantastic seats. Fantasy seats. A guy sitting beside us asked how we got the tickets and I said we had bought them for face value from some guy outside and asked if he was going to rat us out. He said he was the brother of the guy and thought it was hilarious we had gotten away with it. He also happened to be a rich lawyer who promptly got me and my buddy hammered on big draft beers. So we were there. We were in Busch Stadium for the game when McGwire hit 61. That is a fact.
July 2019
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July
RSVPast Cotton Carnival
1961
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elinda Buss Stephens checks her curly locks during the Little Miss Maid of Cotton Contest in March 1961. The contest was part of the Cotton Carnival festivities. Photo courtesy of the American Dental Association 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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