January
2009
Enchanted Forest Preview Party Chefs' Celebrity Gala Sip Around the World
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CONTENTS
Contents January 2009
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Pat Halloran At the helm of the Orpheum Foundation, this Memphian keeps bringing Broadway’s best to the city’s most historic theatre.
10 SIGNATURE MEMPHIS Pat Halloran
Enchanted Forest Preview Party . . . . . . . . . . . .12
20
Visiting the Enchanted Forest has been a tradition for several decades and is still going strong as evidenced at the preview party benefiting Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center at the Pink Palace Museum.
STREETSEEN Sarah Cooper
JANUARY 2009
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 & 20 Working with dogs proves advantageous for this officer’s commitment to keeping the airport safe. This jewelry collector has bragging rights with her personal vintage costume jewelry collection, but she also has a booth at Sheffield's Antiques with equally exquisite finds. StreetSeens spotlight Officer Tim Adams and Sarah Cooper.
4 RSVP
Chefs’ Celebrity Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Area business professionals took on a new role as celebrity servers for a dinner ben-
12 ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY Becky and John Childress
efiting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center at Hilton Memphis.
Sip Around the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
22 CHEFS’ CELEBRITY GALA Patty Donnelly and Judy McGuire
The National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee welcomed the masses to its annual fund-raiser, akin to a wine wonderland, at the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 & 33 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.
RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 A trek across the city’s party landscape.
RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
16
The Volunteer State Dennis Phillippi gears up for a new year filled with niceties. Bah, humbug!
STREETSEEN Officer Tim Adams
24 SIP AROUND THE WORLD Quinn Powers and Katie Clark
Cover Photo Casandra and Jack Moriarty at Chefs’ Celebrity Gala Photo by Leah Fitzpatrick
Volume XIV
Number IV
January 2009 PUBLISHER
Roy Haithcock EDITOR
Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ruth Cassin Dennis Phillippi Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR
Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS
JANUARY 2009
Roy Haithcock John Hammer Don Perry Steve Roberts SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Toni Ander son ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Libby Huff
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ACCOUNTING
Ruth Cassin
RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $50.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104
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JANUARY 2009
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From the Editor
O
JANUARY 2009
Photo by Steve Roberts
ne recent, excruciatingly cold Saturday morning, I found myself on Riverside Drive bearing the brunt of an early wakeup call and a nonforgiving wind for the unthinkable: a St. Jude Memphis Half Marathon cheerleader. Ha! I don’t even know if you could call me a cheerleader, as it seemed more runners shouted my name than I did theirs. However, I realized that sometimes just being there matters more to friends and loved ones than anything else. After all, crossing the finish line with no one waiting on the other side can’t be fun for anybody, especially when you factor months of training into the mix. Afterward, I questioned whether I could have accomplished the same feat that thousands of other runners did that day. The truth is probably a big fat yes, but the reality of constantly following healthy eating habits and a strict training schedule says otherwise. Someone like me has to find other outlets that push physical and mental capabilities to the limit, and I think I’ve found just the fix with this New Year’s resolution thing. Since resolutions are self-made, they can range from the bravest of challenges, like skydiving, to the tamest of conquests, like enrolling in a cooking or foreign language course. The options are endless, but the execution is where sheer willpower comes into play. A feasible resolution has to be more fun than work, yet still increase your self worth. Whether you choose to keep resolutions private, which I’m doing, or make them public knowledge, remember that no one can hold you accountable except yourself. My accountability to you, the RSVP readers, this month was to fill an issue with people who exude a special happiness as a result of bringing their passions, skills or career goals to fruition. Now, it’s your turn to create happiness for a memorable 2009.
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Leah Fitzpatrick editor@rsvpmagazine.com
Orpheum Foundation President/Member of The Broadway League Board of Directors
Hobby: Painting. Your mantra: Do it today! Favorite album: Any Dean Martin CD. Ideal vacation spot: Cabo San Lucas. Movie you could watch over and over again: Gladiator. Words or phrases you overuse: “To make a long story short.” First job: Janitor for my family’s movie theatre in Omaha, Nebraska. One thing you can’t live without: My best friend and wife, and our kids. Last book you’ve read: Where Have All The Leaders Gone by Lee Iacocca. First concert: The Broadway play “Mister Roberts,” starring Henry Fonda, in 1951. Personal hero: Dr. Henry King Stanford, who is a retired president of the University of Miami. One thing most people don’t know about you: I have invested in three thoroughbred race horses. Your greatest achievement: Being part of a group that has made The Orpheum what it is today and picking up two Tony Awards along the way.
photo by Steve Roberts
SIGNATURE MEMPHIS JANUARY 2009 RSVP
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Pat Halloran
JANUARY 2009
ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY
EVENT
Enchanted Forest Preview Party Festival of Trees
I Todd Weddle and Barbara Jones
Ryan and Erin Butterick
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12
t was indeed an “Enchanted Evening” as hundreds turned out at the Pink Palace Museum to be among the first to view the 2008 Enchanted Forest and Festival of Trees. Presented by the MidSouth chapters of TWIGS (Together We Initiate Growth and Sharing), the annual event, which raises funds for Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center, is a treasured Memphis holiday tradition. Guests were captivated as they admired the dazzling display of nearly 50 trees lit with more than 30,000 twinkling lights and designed and decorated by local businesses, schools, churches and community organizations. Among the spectacular themed trees were Ameriprise Financial’s “Under the Sea,” the Harley Owners Group’s “The Tree that Keeps on Giving,” and the East Senior Center’s “Memphis BBQ” tree. Upon entering the forest, one could not help but be charmed by the animated characters—teddy bears beckoning, elves busy at work and penguins at play in the Penguin Pond—all featured in a magical snowy setting. Local groups also created a delightful Gingerbread Village with dozens of gingerbread houses, in competition to be the most imaginative of the season. Surrounding the village was an impressive miniature train display. The “Holidays Around the World” exhibit highlights the ways in which different countries around the world celebrate the holiday season. A silent auction, featuring such items as the first pitch at a Memphis Redbirds game and team memorabilia, a YMCA family membership, University of Memphis football tickets and commemorative wine glasses hand painted by Le Bonheur Cardiac Kids’ Camp attendees, furthered the event’s philanthropic efforts. Many Memphis restaurateurs, caterers and beverage distributors, including Lu’s Catering, Le Chardonnay, Lucchesi’s Ravioli and Pasta Company, Anne’s Bakery, Half Shell, D. Canale and Spirits at Timber Creek, generously donated plentiful and delicious hors d’oeuvres and libations for partygoers’ enjoyment. Meanwhile, the Gecko Brothers Band, a perennial favorite, entertained the crowd with ‘70s disco, R&B classics, as well as ‘80s rock and contemporary top hits. Erin Duncan, a member of the steering committee for this year’s event, said that organizers were “excited that the party had such a great turnout and hoped future efforts will be as successful.” Party proceeds totaled $11,000 thanks to more than 400 guests who embraced the true Christmas spirit.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Tim and Bridgette Flack
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by John Hammer
Doug and Candace McGowen
Chris Kauker and Ellen Douglan
Nick Dwyer and Nicole Douglas
Steven and Angela McCarter
Mallory Barnes, Santa Mike White, Salen White and Candice Young
Jennifer and Dale Stover
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EVENT ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY JANUARY 2009
Josh and Ursula Roman
Angela and Tom Bindbeutel
Billie and Dan Work
Courtney and Kevin Stamps
Latisha Yarbrough and Jim Houchin
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Mark and Debbie Blevins
Erin Duncan and Meridith Vezina
Wendy and Lauren Farrior
Shelly and Chris Burr
Elise Veazey and Stephanie Twiford
Michelle and Jorge Salazar
JANUARY 2009
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STREETSEEN
Officer Tim Adams Deterrent and Detector
JANUARY 2009
M
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ost dogs are only regarded as pets, but Officer Tim Adams and his canine companion, Rex, have a much deeper connection. That’s because the pair serves in the K-9 unit at the Memphis International Airport Police Department. “Our relationship is basically like a marriage because we are together 24 hours, seven days a week, and I have to make sure we get along,” Officer Adams says. Founded in 1990, the airport’s K-9 unit provides support for patrol and security of the airport to ensure visitors and travelers that no potential hazards or explosives are present. Most dogs possessing the skills and stamina needed for the job are usually German Shepherds from Germany, however Rex is from Holland. Once they arrive stateside, dogs undergo training at the Department of Defense Military Working Dog School at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, where their drive, scent work and bite work are put to the test. Dogs don’t have to be a certain age to qualify for the unit, rather they are picked based on maturity. Officer Adams adds, “K-9 dogs are also trained to be single purpose dogs, meaning they’re only used for detection, and not to attack, because we work in an environment where we have people everywhere.” After a dog is deemed ready for work, officers go to Texas for 10 weeks of training and to be “married” with their canine partner in crime. Handlers then become custodians of the dogs, meaning they are responsible for their companion at all times, but the federal government assumes ownership. K-9 officer requirements include always being accessible, learning commands in German, accommodating a canine partner at home and having a spleen, since a dog bite could result in death for someone lacking this organ. A handler also trains his dog on a daily basis. “Your dog is like an Olympian,” Officer Adams says. “You want them to be the best because we don’t have room for error.” At a moment’s notice, the team could be called to search an aircraft for explosives, which are best detected by dogs because they are one million times more sensitive to odors than humans. Though Officer Adams confirms that an explosive has never been found at the airport, he says if one were to be discovered, a K-9 dog would show a change in behavior and become passive, or sit, to make a handler aware of the hazard. Like any relationship, trust is a big issue. “We put these dogs through the ringer with hundreds of hours of training because they have to be dependable,” Officer Adams emphasizes. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
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STREETSEEN
Sarah Cooper Jewelry Enthusiast
JANUARY 2009
B
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y Friday afternoon, Sarah Cooper already knows which estate sales she’ll be hitting up on Saturday. Constantly on the prowl for unique pieces, she scours Memphis, and anywhere she travels, for vintage costume jewelry from the 1930s to the 1980s, and asks everyone she meets about all things related to her favorite hobby. A methodical organizer, Cooper can tell you where any piece of jewelry she owns is stored, which is a feat in itself as she doesn’t have a quantitative figure for her collection. She says, “Just in my earring collection alone, I have more than 300 pairs, but I stopped counting after 300.” From an Eisenberg Original sterling and rhinestone pin to a Coro owl duette to Bakelite (an attractive plastic used in jewelry from the 1920s to the 1940s) bangles, Cooper’s collection is all-inclusive. But she harbors a particular fondness for parures, which are four or five matching pieces, because she says they are rare. “If I just find a Weiss pin, for instance, I get a feeling like there’s a bracelet out there, so I’ll look for it,” she says. “Hunting for a piece and the anticipation of finding it are tremendous!” Cooper’s husband, who motivated her to turn jewelry collecting into a hobby in the first place, helps her stay abreast of vintage costume finds by going along on jewelry excursions. Cooper acknowledges that he has a good eye for choice items, and says novices can too if they learn to acquire pieces for their unusual designs, a designer’s signature, date and quality condition. She also urges people not to be mesmerized by just rhinestones because there are many other intriguing vintage finds, from glass crystal beads to jade pendants. For those seeking more indepth detail, Cooper encourages people to seek reference books on the subject to learn fun facts about designers and their respective eras. “Half the fun of owning a piece is knowing its history, so you can imagine who might have worn it previously,” Cooper says. Jewelry makes up such a large part of her life that Cooper buys lots of blazers to display pins on, wears earrings with a swimsuit and lays out her outfit for the next day the night before to pair jewelry with it. “When I have on a piece of vintage costume jewelry, I feel special because there may not be another piece like it in the world, and I’m not likely to run into someone wearing the same thing,” she smiles. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
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EVENT
Chefs’ Celebrity Gala
CHEFS’ CELEBRITY GALA
Benefiting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center
W
JANUARY 2009
Laurie Holt and Victoria Busey
Renea and Phillip Orr
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ith “Tip Me” buttons pinned to servers’ aprons, there wasn’t a shortage of opportunities to throw in some change for the Memphis Child Advocacy Center (CAC) at the Chefs’ Celebrity Gala. Now in its 19th year, this delectable affair, sponsored by the American Culinary Federation, Greater Memphis Chapter and Hilton Memphis, ranks as the nonprofit’s most successful and longest running fund-raiser. During the server reception held before the main event, Nancy Williams, executive director of the Memphis CAC, welcomed 100 “celebrity” servers to the Hilton Memphis. These servers, who were VPs, CEOs and representatives from the companies that sponsored tables, learned about the dishes they would be serving to guests later in the evening. Williams also announced that this year’s gala was dedicated to event chair Carol W. Prentiss’ late husband, Jim Prentiss, who passed away in February. Carol has fulfilled the chairman duties since the event’s inception. Half an hour later, 600 philanthropic supporters gathered for a silent auction and appetizers in the hallway outside of the ballroom doors, which were soon opened for guests awaiting the five-course feast. White cloths draped over their arms, servers graciously presented anxious diners with a roasted butternut squash bisque, Champagne kiwi sorbet, Kentucky steak roulade and pistachio-crusted Chinook salmon, Lorenzo salad and, finally, a butter cake with mango coulis and fresh berries. The Jim Johnson Orchestra and impeccable service were the winning accompaniments to the elegant affair. “We’re trying to battle each other to see who can talk people out of the most tips,” server Steve Ehrhart smiled. “All the tips we get go to the Child Advocacy Center, so we’re having a lot of fun.” Guests also contributed to the cause by purchasing “Teddy Bear Surprises,” which were positioned across the ballroom stage. For a $250, $500 or $1,000 contribution, attendees received a gift certificate enclosed in an envelope attached to a teddy bear. Once the envelopes were opened, guests oohed and aahed over luxuries like catered dinners and weekend vacations. Perhaps the best surprise of all came for the Memphis CAC staff, which is delighted the gala helped bring in $207,000 for an organization devoted to helping children who are victims of sexual and physical abuse.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Winston Wolfe and Valerie Calhoun
Yendry and Brent Alvord
Jessica Murphy and Jeff Mollerup
Jennifer and Jimmy Murphy
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
Darlene Winters and Andy Whiteley
Jane Ezzell, Gina Tanzer and Janie Sims
Bill and Anne Russell
EVENT CHEFS’ CELEBRITY GALA Phillip Leach, Darin Ballew and Stacey Pfund
Child support guidelines in the state of Tennessee recently changed once again. Unfortunately, not only are these guidelines in constant flux, but they can also be exceedingly vague and complex depending upon the situation. If you have questions about child support in Tennessee, Mississippi or Arkansas, or need information about other divorce-related issues, visit www.MemphisDivorce.com or call 901-683-1850.
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EVENT
Sip Around the World Wine Tasting
SIP AROUND THE WORLD
D
on’t have time for an escape to the world’s most noted vineyards? Then the annual Sip Around the World Wine Tasting,
right here in Memphis’ backyard, provides the next best thing. With 1,200 vino connoisseurs and novices alike convening at the Memphis Botanic Garden, this 14th-anniversary event raised more than $60,000 for the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee (NKFWT). Gazing across a standing-room-only hallway, Mable Barringer, the NKFWT executive director, smiled, “This is the
JANUARY 2009
Hollie Fischer and Mark Harris
Avery Hughes and Mary Ruth Yates
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largest crowd we’ve had in several years.” Athens Distributing Company supplied some 250 wines from 100 wineries for the occasion. Stateside wines included those from California and Oregon, and that was just the beginning. Argentina, Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and South Africa were also represented at 30 tasting tables stationed throughout the Botanic Garden facility. A few of the more interestingly named wines that volunteers poured included Toad Hollow Eye of the Toad Rose, Epiphany Gypsy, Paradise Ridge Rockpile Cab and Jacuzzi Primitivo. When not imbibing, guests savored delicious appetizers like smoked salmon on toast points, various cheeses and strawberries with chocolate fondue. Kirk Smothers Trio and Disc Jockeys etc. buzzed with some classic tunes enjoyed by those bidding on silent auction items. Bill Banister of WRVR manned the live auction, which featured luxuries such as an in-home wine tasting extravaganza for 12 donated by Kirby Wines and a Fleming’s wine dinner for six donated by Fleming’s Steakhouse. DaVita was the gold sponsor for Sip Around the World, an event that pours generous donations toward prevention of kidney and urinary tract diseases.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Laurie Betesh and Brian Vallandingham
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
Scott Hagen and Gina True
David and Pearl Pollow
Kirby Houston and Michelle Davenport
Dr. Jim and Sharon Brawner
Brisa Samudio, Mackenzie Fowler, Rob Rutledge and Kristy Street
Edwin and Susan Smith
EVENT SIP AROUND THE WORLD George Gill and Elaine Fetzer
JANUARY 2009
Shawnelle and Omar Davis
Jennifer Hendrix, Natalie Dellinger and Lacey Pease RSVP
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Alicia Dean and Kevin Kearn
Jimmy and Ginger Moore
Angie Harris, Paul Hale and Shannon Barnes
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Dancing with the Docs Fall Architects Party Victory Ranch Fund-raiser Association for Women Attorneys Banquet
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JANUARY 2009
Bobbie and Bob Eoff at Victory Ranch Fund-raiser
Ruby and Mayor A C Wharton at Association for Women Attorneys Banquet
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Jennifer Hagerman and Shari Myers at Association for Women Attorneys Banquet
ook out Hollywood…here come the docs! This fall, Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center physicians waltzed, rumbaed, twirled and twisted at the second annual Dancing with the Docs fund-raiser with the help of Dancesmith’s Fred Astaire Dance Studio. Nearly 350 guests convened at the Cannon Center to help raise money for the hospital’s Cardiac Kids Camp, a program enjoyed by children with cardiac-related diagnoses. Memphians were designed to party at the 20th anniversary of the Fall Architects Party held at Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects. Close to 250 architects, doctors, pilots and partiers came to drink at the cash bar, listen to Cherry Brooks and the Subtonics and the Memphis Snake Doctors and mingle at what some call the party of the year. The International Children’s Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping children with congenital heart defects in developing countries throughout the world, was the event beneficiary. The second annual Victory Ranch Fund-raiser paid tribute to the West with cacti décor, a rodeo trick roper show by Burt Hairgrove and music by Country Grammar. Held at the Peabody Rooftop, the party offered cowboys and cowgirls a chance to participate in Leave Your Mark” campaign, which has roped in the “L $60,000 to date. In exchange for a donation, donors’ names will be “branded” on bunk beds, lodges, climbing towers or horse stalls at the 500-acre ranch devoted to nondenominational Christian activities and retreats. The Association for Women Attorneys (AWA) Banquet highlighted the presentation of the Marion Griffin-Frances Loring Award to Ruby Wharton for her contributions to the legal profession. AWA members and their guests also enjoyed cocktails, dinner and a silent auction, which raised funds to support the group’s scholarship fund. During the occasion, several U of M law students were awarded scholarships, and the group announced Jennifer Hagerman as the new AWA president. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick and Lesley Young
Denise and Harold Ware with Anne Smith at Victory Ranch Fund-raiser
Crystal Thomas-Hughey, Beth and Benji Smith and Holly Knight at Dancing with the Docs
Nancy Keys and Victoria Kronenewetter at Dancing with the Docs
Lucie Brackin and Nicole Manley at Association for Women Attorneys Banquet
Don Hutson with Elizabeth and Dr. William Novick at Fall Architects Party
Spence and LeAnn Byrum with Lisa and Adrian McCall at Fall Architects Party
Frank and Ashley Clark at Fall Architects Party
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A Trek Across the City’s Party L andscape Backstage Ball 3 “Red-Carpet Rodeo”
JANUARY 2009
The Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum served up some country favorites at the Backstage Ball 3, aptly titled “R Red-Carpet Rodeo.” From vittles to boot scootin’ to wagon wheels, the party held at the FedExForum’s backstage offered an assortment of themed memorabilia and sweet fun, all to preserve the story of Memphis’ music legends. Upon arrival, country singing sensations, or rather their impersonators, greeted attendees. A few familiar faces included Shelley Truax as Reba McEntire, Matt
Hurdle, Gretchen Wollert McLennon, Brad and Dina Martin and Kent Underwood. Look to the Rock ‘n’ Soul staff to bring the city an even more original musical theme at the Backstage Ball 4, as it continues to create an authentic backstage experience. Rock divas and garage bands
Kent Underwood and Matt Snyder Kerry Snyder and Sherry Shackelford
28 RSVP
where Neely’s Bar-B-Cue came in with country-fried sliders, green chili chicken cheddar cornbread (a mouthful in itself), Western wings and Sock-It-To-Me cake. Re-energized, country cuties and their cowboys headed to the “Rockin’ Saloon” for a hoedown courtesy of Jimmy Davis and the RiverBluff Clan, followed by karaoke for the bravest of country fans. More than 60,000 songs were
Juli Hurdle and Gretchen Wollert McLennon
Snyder as Porter Wagoner, Kerry Snyder as Loretta Lynn and Sherry Shackelford as Dolly Parton. A Minnie Pearl look-alike, complete with a straw hat and price tag, even made an appearance. John Doyle, the executive director of the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, partook in the spirit by donning a bolo tie. Red bandanas were also popular accessories since they were handed out as party favors. Hobnobbing with the “big names” gave way to hearty appetites, and that’s
available for single and group sing alongs, but popular hits like Gretchen Wilson’s “Redneck Woman” and Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places” won out. Thanks to Pam Hetsel, director of programming for the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the theme remained ever-present throughout the decor. No corner was left unadorned, from centerpieces made of
are themes being tossed around, but one never knows what will unfold during a backstage after-party…the beauty of anticipation. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
WKNO Art and Antiques Auction Preview Party Adding to your art collection got a whole lot easier with the 18th anniversary of the WKNO Art and Antiques Auction. Held on the South Campus of the University of Memphis, this showplace for works by the area’s most revered artists proved a popular spot on opening night.
Shelley Truax and Rick Waits
John Doyle and Donna Glenn
apple baskets topped with guitars and cowboy hats to a giant horse surrounded by hay bales. Silent auction items positioned near the entrance also yielded goodies of Western influence. Some event supporters were Lee Reney, Suzie Bowen, Ann Page, Kathryn Morelli, Donna Glenn, Charlie Ryan, David and Stacie Waddell, Rick Waits, Juli
Shelia Donaldson and Anna Blow
Amy McDaniel, auction co-coordinator, and Becky Kelly, auction manager, spearheaded Gallery 10, which featured more than 500 pieces of art in a range of mediums: ceramics, photography, sculptures, oils, watercolors, acrylics and pastels, to name a few. Jewelry and coffee tables rounded out some of the more diverse goods. Mimi Dann, Kristen Myers, Janice Albertine, Nancy Cheairs and Tom Clifton, who also served as a resident art interpreter for the auction, were a few of the
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recognized artists whose works were on display. Artist Shelia Donaldson has contributed to the auction in the past, and this year, she chose to donate a mixed media piece titled “Courtship for Autumn,” depicting rock people nestled in a swing with leaves surrounding them. Questioned about her subjects, she said, “I learned how to make rock people in high school and have always enjoyed it.” Donaldson even carried out her artistic tal-
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ents in the hand-made ensemble she wore to the preview party. While buyers could choose their favorites during the party, bidding actually took place online and during live broadcasts held in the WKNO studio. Young artists were highlighted in one of the segments, and another special seg-
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ment called â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Collectionâ&#x20AC;? included juried works by artists like Sally Markell, N J Woods, Agnes Stark and Fred Rawlinson. Jin Powell, whose â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ballet Dancerâ&#x20AC;? sculpture was featured on the auctionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s promotional flyer, was another juried artist. A reception honoring these artists was held on the day of bidding, and Teri Sullivan, the WKNO promotions manager, said she encouraged people to come see the art firsthand to get a closer look. Bidders not only took away valuable works, but they helped raise around $70,000 to continue WKNOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to providing the Mid-South with quality public broadcasting. Those who supported the cause during the auctionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preview party were Bard Cole, Justin Willingham, Donna Hoffman, David Pritzke, Gloria Hepburn, Stewart Horton and Sandra Morley with Barbara Tanika Greene, and Paul Presley Dominique Donaldson, Anna Blow, Stewart Horton, Sandra Morley and Paul and Barbara Presley. WKNO staff thanks all who contributed to the auction and for helping make the new WKNO facility, which will be built this summer, a reality. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
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Some 1,300 people embraced the fight for human rights by attending the 2008 Freedom Award Ceremony at the Cook Convention Center. The National Civil Rights Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest annual fund-raiser, the event raked in $600,000, which will go toward the general operation of the museum, educational programming and temporary (traveling) exhibits. The Freedom Award, which began in 1991, honors those who have paved the way for current and future human rights leaders and made noteworthy contributions in civil rights. A Climate of Change,â&#x20AC;? this 17th anniversary event honDubbed â&#x20AC;&#x153;A ored three outstanding individuals: Diane Nash, the National Freedom Award recipient; Al Gore, the International Freedom Award recipient; and B.B. King, the Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Each honoree Alex Ertz, Annette Bickers and Curtis Bickers
John Williams and Eybonne Glinsey
Lenette and Robert Mebane with Angela Hinds
Penny Aviotti, John and Gina Jackson, Robert and Lenette Mebane, Angela Hinds, Carlos and Debbie Webb, Dr. Benjamin Hooks, Thomas Dubose, Leonard James III, John Faraci, J.R. Hyde III and Dave Bronczek. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
Though it is known for its ability to transport goods around the world, Memphis is not without its artistic talent. To celebrate that talent, each year the Germantown Arts Alliance awards four medals to outstanding artists from the Mid-South community at its Arts and Humanities Gala. Ladies adorned in their finest jewelry and formal gowns were escorted by gentlemen
Debbie and Carlos Webb
and Oleta Adams lent their talents throughout the program, which was co-chaired by Judy Christa Cathey and Tony McDuffie Sr. Generous sponsorships came from State Farm for the entertainment, International Paper for the National Freedom Award, Hyde Family Foundations for the International Award, FedEx for the Lifetime Achievement Award and ExxonMobil for the video sponsor. Those enjoying the black-tie affair, which also celebrated the 45th anniversary of the day the Lorraine Motel became a national shrine, were Beverly Robertson, the National
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Germantown Arts Alliance Arts and Humanities Gala
Marshall Boswell and Rebecca Finlayson
clad in black tie into the Esplanade to honor this year’s esteemed winners. Surrounded by fall-themed décor, members and supporters of the organization dined on canapés, sipped
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delivered an inspirational acceptance speech, but Nash, who was the official leader of the Nashville sit-ins, best summarized the civil rights fight when she said, “Oppression always requires the cooperation of the oppressed.” Nash added, “The only person you can change is yourself, and that’s what we did in the South.” Gore joked that he was amazed he and B.B. could even share the same stage with Nash. Earlier in the day, all three also participated in the free public forum at the Temple of Deliverance, visited the National Civil Rights Museum and agreed to participate in the museum’s oral history exhibit, “Voices of Freedom.” Others who participated in the ceremony included emcees Valerie Calhoun, Ernie Freeman, Terrance Bates, Bonny Kinney, Ursula Madden, Bill Lunn, Mary Beth Conley and Alex Coleman. Pastor Sandy Willson of Second Presbyterian Church delivered the invocation. Musical guests Faith Hill
cocktails and bid on silent auction items, such as cases of wine and weekend getaways, while awaiting the ceremonious dinner. This year the organization honored four celebrated artists and supporters of the arts, including Marshall Boswell, for Literary Arts; Dixie Carter, for Performing Arts; the Mednikow Family, for Patronage of the Arts; and Ephraim Urevbu, for Visual Arts. Candidates in the arts are chosen based on three criteria: those who have made a significant impact in their chosen field; those whose work demonstrates quality, originality and professional execution; and those who have made distinctive contributions in the arts and humanities. Meanwhile, the Patron of the Arts candidates are recognized for their outstanding achievements in the support of cultural enrichment for the Memphis area. They have shown through their devotion of time, talent and/or financial commitment that they have promoted, encouraged, stimulated and preserved a creative environment in our area. A nonprofit advocacy and funding organization, the Germantown Arts Alliance has adopted a mission to promote, enrich JANUARY 2009
Civil Rights Museum president, Gwen Harmon, director of governmental and community affairs for the museum, Linda Mosby, Mark Mandel, Alex Ertz, Annette Bickers, Curtis Bickers, Alma Robertson, Karen Boozer, Toni Boland, Phyllis Fair, John Williams, Eybonne Glinsey, Tom and Carolyn Williams Bennett, Alex Turner, Pete and
Jean Mathews and Dann Crawford
and celebrate the community’s cultural arts environment. It was originally established in 1987 by city officials as the Germantown Arts Commission, and in 1992 it became an autonomous nonprofit entity. Through the years, funding sources for the Germantown Arts Alliance have included the City of Germantown, the Shelby County Government, the Tennessee Arts Commission, corporate business and individual donors, foundations and fund-raising events. Attendees of this year’s gala included Clyde Ballard, GaNelle Roberts, Linda Stephenson, Pat Smith, Larry and Pat Scroggs, Jean Mathews, Dann Crawford, Jerome and Geraldine Patterson, Tad and Joan Foote, Bernie and Judy Brown, Justin Strafuss, Peyton Emanuel, Marshall Boswell, Rebecca Finlayson, David Palmer, Pat McCaleb, Teresa Dunlap, John and Pam Campbell and George and Linda Stephenson. Story and photos by Lesley Young
RSV PHILLIPPI
By Dennis Phillippi
THE VOLUNTEER STATE
JANUARY 2009
O
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kay, no pressure here. It’s only the first issue of the year. It’s only the first issue of the last year of the decade. It’s only the issue that happens to hit the stands the same month that a new president takes office. Oh yeah, and that president happens to be Barack Obama. So, you know, no pressure. Of course, this isn’t a political magazine. Flip back through it. This is a magazine about pretty people in fancy duds. This is a magazine devoted to smiling folks with shiny white teeth. We don’t talk about issues in our issues. This isn’t about politics; this is about what might be about to happen. Eight years ago when the last Honcho in Chief took office, there was no way to predict what was going to occur. The world was a much peachier place, and the idea of having a Big Boss who seemed mostly interested in fishing and maybe getting to ride in a tank every once in a while seemed like an okay thing. Now things are different. Since the year 2000, a lot of not so good things have happened, and a lot of people got pretty jaded about the whole thing. There’s an oil crisis? Let’s get giant cars. People in other countries are less than thrilled to have loud Americans banging around their tourist spots? Vegas baby. You see what I mean. Politics seemed to be about power and greed and meanness. We all pretty much stopped caring. Then along comes this Obama with his message of hope and service and belief in our country and in our selves. Geez, this is going to take a lot of energy. When you’ve gotten completely disengaged and cynical about everything, turning it around is like trying to get back in the habit of going to the gym. Sure, you know it’s good for you, and maybe even good for those around you, but it also means putting in some effort and maybe even sweating some. That’s asking a lot. Not that I’m likely to suddenly become some kind of community activist. Isn’t it enough that the wife and I actually use our recycling bin? We do our part. We get paper instead of plastic. We don’t run down people on bicycles. We don’t run a meth lab. But it looks like we’re all going to have to do a little more. And I have
some suggestions about how all of us can work together to make America a better place. First off, while President Obama is busy dealing with the energy situation and the wars and all that, let’s start doing things that matter right here on the ground. Let’s stop wearing fanny packs, unpleasantly tight sweat pants and too much perfume. All of that was just the
When Driver’s Ed is an elective, bad habits come easy. lady in front of me at the grocery store this morning. See how much good one person could do if she would just try? Second, let’s stop turning right from the center lane. Let’s stop pulling halfway into the intersection. Let’s stop driving close enough to the car in front of us to form an opinion on the driver’s haircut. These are difficult things to change, especially when you’re from Memphis. When Driver’s Ed is an elective, bad habits come easy. Third, enough with the ringtones. Fourth, keep your opinions off your bumper. When we’re idling behind you while waiting for a train to pass, we could live without having to see that you’re a vegan, or love some breed of dog or that great local band that only has the one fan. If I want to know about you, I’ll do it the old fashioned way, I’ll look at your MySpace page. Fifth, knock off the MySpace page thing. Sixth, let’s agree that our town does not stink. A lot of good could be done if Memphians would all start acting like we live in a beautiful, tree-sheltered slice
of paradise and stop complaining about our city like we somehow accidentally moved to Calcutta. If you think Memphis is so terrible, please do one of two things, either move somewhere else or visit somewhere else. If you visit pretty much any other American city, you’re going to find that their problems are the same as our problems, and they don’t even have one of the world’s greatest rivers within easy driving distance. Other cities have downtown areas that are bullet-ridden wastelands. We don’t. Okay, we don’t anymore. Where we once had a terrifying adventure of a downtown, we now have restaurants and stores and that sweet, sweet ballpark. Granted, it came with the unexpected addition of tourists bumbling in front of our cars because they think that all of downtown is blocked off like Beale Street, but that’s a small price to pay. Having said all of that, here’s the biggest thing; let’s all try to care again. For a lot of us, that’s not going to be a simple thing. We have gotten used to watching too much television, surfing the Interweb, listening to downloaded music and stopped thinking about what’s happening outside of our walls. If millions of young people can put forth the effort to get a man elected who couldn’t even have voted for himself not too awfully long ago, maybe it’s time for the rest of us to pitch in. Maybe we’re not all going to suddenly get up early to work at soup kitchens, but we can sure donate to food drives. Not a lot of us are going to start spending time with the elderly if we don’t have to, but let’s be better about seeing the ones we do. This isn’t a magazine about politics, and this isn’t a column about politics. This is just a column saying that maybe it’s time we all do the hokiest thing of all to start the New Year, maybe it’s time for us to have hope.
The new year marks a new beginning for RSVP wisecracker Dennis Phillippi. Not only is our dear satirist embarking on a journey to do the greater good, he’s urging others to give up their freedom outlets, like MySpace, in hopes that people will open their eyes to what’s happening around them. Though asking people to give up their fanny packs might be going a little too far.
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Be Seen on the Green uests took to heart the “B Scene” theme of the evening for the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis’ Tool Box Bash at Hilton Memphis by donning “snazzy, jazzy and green”
Catherine and Brian Chappell at Tool Box Bash
tasting held throughout the festivities. As patrons mingled and perused goodies up for bid, they enjoyed sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and jazz tunes performed by the Tom Lonardo Trio. Silent auction donations ranged from whimsical hand-painted planters crafted by Collierville High School art students to Viking Cooking School lessons, given by Cenwood Appliances. Highlights of the live auction included a Roy Orbison Gibson guitar contributed by The Gibson Foundation; two round-trip tickets to Waikiki and a Della and Dag Perkins at Tool Box Bash
four-night stay at the Doubletree Alana provided by Northwest Airlines and Hilton Hotels; and a two-night
Neta and Keith Wild at Tool Box Bash
Joey and Lisa Sulipeck at Tool Box Bash
Nelson and Jennifer Burford at Tool Box Bash
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by Roy Haithcock
Molly Medlin with Nicole and Rip Haney at Tool Box Bash
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stay in deluxe accommodations at The Peabody hotel with a bottle of Bogle Petite Sirah and dinner for two at Chez Phillipe furnished by The Peabody and Wine Market. Mednikow displayed jewelry by Rebecca, with partial sale proceeds going toward Habitat. Jeff Capps, Habitat’s director of community relations, said the organization “could not be more pleased that so many Habitat supporters were gathered in one place.” He added that the event brought in a record-breaking $23,000. What a terrific way to celebrate 25 years of service!
JANUARY 2009
P.W. Burnett and Jessica French at Tool Box Bash
attire to celebrate the cause of providing quality housing for lower income families. The Memphis affiliate marked its 25th year with this signature event. Fox Channel 13 meteorologist Joey Sulipeck served as master of ceremonies for the evening presented by sponsor GE Commercial Aviation Services. Wine Market, a project manager sponsor, presented the wine
Brett and Leslie Smith at Tool Box Bash
Janice and Jimmy Reed at Tool Box Bash
RSVPAST
A Rite of Passage
JANUARY 2009
1959
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M
iss Hutchison’s School for Girls Kindergarten Class of 1959 celebrated its end-of-the-year achievement at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. At the graduation ceremony, the kindergarteners, who were the flower girls for the Senior Class, walked down the aisle with their respective Senior. Mary Estes Montedonico, pictured with Della Kay Ellis above right, was the Senior assigned to Ellis for the 1958-1959 school year. The following year there was a shortage of kindergarteners for Seniors, and with Ellis being one of the shortest students, she had the privilege of being assigned a flower girl role in the first grade as well.
Blossom: PHOTOS COURTESY OF DELLA ELLIS
If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Leah Fitzpatrick at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com All photos will be returned promptly.
on view at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens
January 25 – March 22, 2009
Art of Flowers
Nationally sponsored by The Susan K. Black Foundation
4339 Park Avenue Memphis, Tennessee 38117 901.761.5250 | www.dixon.org Elizabeth von Isser, Oro Valley, AZ, Shadow Play. Acrylic on canvas, 30”x20,” Gold Poppy.