April
2009
Stetsons & Stars Oscar Night速 America Madonna Circle Preview Gala Germantown Horse Show Royal Ball Q&A with Marguerite Piazza
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CONTENTS
Contents April 2009
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Sam Samudio Best known as Sam the Sham, this singer lent his signature voice to hits like “Wooly Bully’” and “Lil’ Red Riding Hood” and even won a Grammy, but says he’s still looking for his greatest achievement.
Stetsons & Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
10 SIGNATURE MEMPHIS Sam Samudio
Partygoers “Cowboyed Up” for the Alzheimer’s Association fund-raiser at Minglewood Hall.
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 & 20 While training in the Mississippi for a kayak race, he got the idea to start a race of his own. The Tennessee Genealogical Society (TNGS) can put you in touch with your roots with the aid of helpful volunteers like the TNGS president. StreetSeens spotlight Joe Royer and Jim Bobo.
22 OSCAR NIGHT® AMERICA Daryl and Tamara Hodges
APRIL 2009
Oscar Night ® America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Memphians watched a live telecast of the Oscars® in style during the annual Ronald McDonald House® benefit at the Tower Room.
RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
4 RSVP
A trek across the city’s party landscape.
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34, 35 & 44
12 STETSONS & STARS Al and Kathy Wiggins
Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.
Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Q&A with opera diva and St. Jude philanthropist Marguerite Piazza.
40 MADONNA CIRCLE PREVIEW GALA Emily Landrum and Wanda Barnes
Madonna Circle Preview Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 The Madonna Circle debuted the Memphis Antiques, Garden & Gourmet Show with a preview party at Agricenter International.
Germantown Horse Show Royal Ball . . . . . . . . . . .45 The Germantown Horse Show Association introduced its 2009 royalty with a blacktie affair at Woodland Hills.
RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
18
300 Things That Annoy Me RSVP funnyman Dennis Phillippi pulls an all-nighter to concoct his list of 300 nonsensical people, places, novelties and sports teams, and throws in some random garbage to boot.
STREETSEEN Joe Royer
45 GERMANTOWN HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL Cody Nelson and Selina Ribnick
Cover Photo Brian Yoakum and Jennifer Yoakum at Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation Photo by Roy Haithcock
Joel Hobson III
Barbara Cowles
Paul&Meredith McDonald
Janis Canale Hasen
HobsonRealtors.com
Jeanene Lawhead
Lila Saunders
Robert & Nina Tayloe
Carolina Capote
Faith Gary Kaye
901-761-1622
Charlotte Lyles
Dave Weisbeck
Barbie Dan
Laurie Stark
Teresa Wherry
367 Tara Lane. Lila Saunders
$1,295,000 312-2986
ew Listing! 1655 Harbert $349,500 Joel Hobson 312-2929
7294 Abercrombie Deborah Mays
570 Club Walk Lila Saunders Meredith McDonald
$174,500 312-2939
$335,000 312-2986 312-2940
280 E. Cherry Lila Saunders
$699,000 312-2986
Fairway Towers 475 N. Highland #4G $155,000 Lila Saunders 312-2986
5581 Hackberry Cv. Michele Crump
206 N. Highland Meredith McDonald Paul McDonald
$499,000 312-2955
$359,900 312-2940 312-2957
4074 Barone Way Lila Saunders
$299,500 312-2986
4053 N. Rose Rd. Deborah Mays
$268,500 312-2939
456 Kingsgate Lila Saunders
$350,000 312-2986
530 Peabody Green Barbara Cowles
Allen Hamblin
59 Lombardy Meredith McDonald Paul McDonald
$429,000 312-2940 312-2957
2 West Condominiums $219,000 and Up Open Sun 1-4 Barbara Cowles 312-2979
27 Grove Run Meredith McDonald Paul McDonald
$374,900 312-2940 312-2957
Has a pool! 5331 Pecan Grove $339,000 Betsy Kelly 312-2969
6984 Cannondale Cv. Deborah Mays
$139,900 312-2939
2123 Saintsbury Mary Jane Fuller
1845 York Deborah Mays
$197,500 312-2939
576 Country Club Ln.
$439,900 312-2937
Lila Saunders
$195,000
312-2986
5247 Hedgewyck
Betsy Kelly
Robbie Ann Pahlow
Stephanie Evans Taylor
Richard Howle
Butch Rice
Laurie McBride
Dare Pugh
$310,000 312-2979
Edith Barlow
Camille LeMaster
Katie Hill
Ellie Tayloe Bennett
Patrick M. Crump
Mary Jane Fuller
Mary Frances Vookles Pitts
Robert Tayloe Nina Tayloe
Mary Ruleman
$359,500
312-2988 312-2978
ew Listing! 4926 Briarcliff $349,000 Patrick M. Crump 312-2932
2277 Massey Meredith McDonald Paul McDonald
$339,000 312-2940 312-2957
First Ad! 1774 Central Charlotte Lyles
Hobson Realtors * 5384 Poplar Avenue, Suite 250 * Memphis, TN 38119
Ruth Morris
Michele Crump
Ela Witmer
Lynda Biggs
Gordon Stark
Virginia Sharp
Amy Moss
$459,000 312-2938
Bob Rowe
Tonya McDowell
Deborah Mays
Volume XIV
Number VII
April 2009 PUBLISHER
Roy Haithcock EDITOR
Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ruth Cassin Jonathan Devin Dennis Phillippi Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR
Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS
APRIL 2009
Roy Haithcock John Hammer Don Perry Steve Roberts SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
6
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Toni Ander son
RSVP
Libby Huff ACCOUNTING
Ruth Cassin RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $75.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104
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MARTHA ANN PHELPS - HARP, PIANO & ORGAN NATHAN PHELPS - TRUMPET & CLASSICAL GUITAR Weddings, Receptions, Dinner Parties, Liturgical Music, Corporate Events marthaaphelps@comcast.net
(901) 756-1399 • (901) 487-8055
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LOOK NO FURTHER
Thursday, April 16 It’s the biggest sale of the season, where you’ll find clearance prices at premier retailers with a reputation for style. Plus savings are so big; the shops are open until 10 pm!
Poplar and West Farmington 4 miles east of I-240, Germantown, TN www.shopsofsaddlecreek.com
7 RSVP
Moonlight Madness Sale
APRIL 2009
FOR MOONLIGHT SALE SAVINGS.
APRIL 2009
BARBARA & BILLY BAXTER
VICKI BLACKWELL
CARMEN BROWN
ROBERT GORMAN
CAROLE HINELY
CAROL IVERSON
LOUISE JORDAN
BARRY LESS
ANN MCKEE
JUDY MCLELLAN
LILA MEHDIAN
STANLEY MILLS
JIMMIE & BOB TAPLEY
DAVID TRUONG
JUDY & CHET WHITSITT
LISA DAVIS WILLS
RSVP
8
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Landis Foy Managing Broker 756-8900 lfoy@crye-leike.com
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From the Editor
T
imes are a changing, and with the change comes a redistribution of priorities. For some people, that means cutting out any unnecessary spending and downsizing, but others approach the situation from a non-monetary standpoint (i.e. refocusing free time on friends and family). Then there is a group who believes if it ignores a crisis all together, hard times will just disappear. While any one solution isn’t better than another, one truth remains the same: you have to tailor a plan that you will put into action. Some things, like the number of benevolent individuals in this city, seem to be weathering the storm, so to speak. At any given event, I seem to meet new people who have recently initiated an interest in charity work and in being productive citizens. One young lady in town has taken matters into her own hands by putting on the Autism Festival of Memphis, to be held April 4 at Riverdale School, to help provide a soothing environment for children with autism. Many more charitable events are also coming up this month, so you will have a plethora of chances to dive into worthy causes. Hopefully, those of you who are Memphis Tigers fans have recovered from March Madness by now and have freed up your social calendar for several of the following events: the Memphis Zoo’s Wild World of Wine and Beer on April 3, the Germantown Performing Arts Center’s Ports of Call Gala on April 4, Brooks Uncorked on April 10, the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy’s Green Shoe Gala on April 17, the Marguerite Piazza St. Jude Gala on April 18, the National Kidney Foundation’s Gift of Life Gala on April 24 and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Masquerade Ball on April 25. For a more inclusive list, please visit our events blog, www.rsvpswhatsgoingon.blogspot.com. Seize the day and this warm weather. While you’re at it, check out our StreetSeen features on pages 18 and 20 for inspiration to paddle the Mississippi or find your family tree. Don’t fight the urge to discover the unknown! Photo by Steve Roberts
O u r Regional Our Regional H Headquarters’ eadquarters’ S Sales ales Professionals closed 1,581 home sales MI LL I O N in 2008! for $248 MILLION Congratulations to these Quail Hollow Sales Leaders:
Leah Fitzpatrick editor@rsvpmagazine.com
fashion
accessories
style
Trunk Show & Personal Appearance Friday, April 17 Saturday, April 18 11am - 4pm chickasaw
oaks
village
•
3092
poplar
ave.
•
901.452.2323
Singer/Member of the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum Advisory Board of Directors/Just a Man
APRIL 2009
SIGNATURE MEMPHIS
Sam Samudio
Personal hero: My father. Your mantra: Just a Man. One thing you can’t live without: Air. Guilty pleasure: Taking time for myself. Hobby: Photography, because I love faces. Words or phrases you overuse: “I” and “me.” First concert: My momma singing “Red Wing.” First job: Bus boy for a $1 a day when I was 14. Last book you’ve read: The Book of Proverbs by Solomon. Historical figure you most identify with: Peter the fisherman, for his boldness. Favorite Memphis musician: Depends on the session I’m cutting, but they’re all great; that’s why they have a reputation the world over. Ideal vacation spot: Ziwataneo, Mexico, but I would have fun in a 40-foot pit. Where you take out-of-town guests: Graceland, Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the river, to go eat barbecue and then back to my favorite spot, the back porch at sunset. Childhood ambition: To be somebody until I found out I couldn’t be somebody, so I became myself.
photo by Steve Roberts
RSVP
10
EVENT
Stetsons & Stars
STETSONS & STARS
“Cowboy Up for Alzheimer’s
T
APRIL 2009
Janet Piacenti and Mike Maness
Sam Russell and Nikki Gast
RSVP
12
he return of Stetsons & Stars sat well with Alzheimer’s Association supporters, who were more than happy to dust off their cowboy hats, boots and spurs for another Western-themed night. This year, the party moved to Minglewood Hall, where the action didn’t stop until the bulls, or the bull riders, came home. The Cowboy Up Committee, headed by Jeff and Valerie Morris, wrangled up hearty doses of music, food and activities for the “herd.” The Ranch Hand Dinner Buffet was the first spot to visit on the trail, and it certainly hit the spot by offering generous servings of steak, chicken, corn on the cob, cornbread, red beans and rice, pasta, apple churros, chocolate cupcakes and bread pudding. Pitchers of sweet tea helped wash down the eats, as did various shooters. Silent auction goodies, like a B.B. King blues print, a skating party and an Eric Church concert and dinner package at Minglewood, tempted partygoers as they stood in line for the feast. A live auction, manned by Mr. Morris, also featured choice items, including a David Yurman necklace, a Viva Las Vegas trip and a Lake Tahoe vacation. DJ Mark Anderson kept the country hits spinning during dinner, but the headlining act came afterward, when KingBilly, a country/rock/bluegrass band from Nashville, took the stage. The Daisy Duke Girls also injected some energy with their dance number. Other action took place in the bar area, where a toy pistol shoot-out and a mechanical bull-riding competition took place. Brian Elder and Jay Young of KIX-106 and Cameron Harper of ABC-24 Eyewitness News emceed the affair that had guests’ showing off their flashiest country gear for charity. Attendee Shawn Danko, dressed in a black long-sleeve Western shirt with stitched flowers said, “I bought this shirt just for tonight.” Dressing up for the cause was just half the fun, but the other half was knowing that money raised went to help more than 90,000 people affected by Alzheimer’s in the Mid-South. In this spirit, the event chairs presented Lisa Bobal, the West Tennessee regional development director of the Alzheimer’s Association, with a check for $95,000, a sum raised thanks to attendees’ lovin’ hearts.
Lindsey Baker and Mae Chandler
Steve and Lisa Doss
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Jane Hodges and Mac Gulley
Becky and Neal Davis
Cathy Weaver and Terry Lynch
Brian Hansford, Lauren Bobal and Bobby Marino
Daniel Walker and Leah Massee
EVENT STETSONS & STARS APRIL 2009
Leigh Shockey, David Poole and Jennifer Kettler
Ericka and John Milford
Marcia Massengille, Lisa Bobal and Amy Jenkins Pirtle
Randy and Ami Austin
Ernie and Ethele Hilliard
RSVP
14
Wayne and Beth Segars
Jared Franks and Kelly Corum
Sean and Beth McCarty
Noel Parsons, Candace Griffin and Rachel Haughton
Jay Mehan and Terry Smithson
Trudy Pfisterer and Joi Taylor
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EVENT STETSONS & STARS APRIL 2009
Clayton and Jean Andrus with Parker Pickle and Alice Higdon
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Pam and Ted Mackey
Patrick and Jill Collins
RSVP
16
Shawn Danko, Nikki Jimenez, Rachel Cangelosi and Lana Danko
(large manufacturer of children's clothing) Spring & Fall hand smocked clothing, separates, sweaters, bibs, blankets, garment bags, totes & pillows.
ALL ITEMS $45.00 OR LESS
Tuesday, April 28th â&#x20AC;˘ 9AM-7PM Wednesday, April 29th â&#x20AC;˘ 9AM-3PM
Please visit www.littleenglish.com for location
Jerry and Michelle James
Bill and Mary Pennington
STETSONS & STARS E V E N T Sarah Morris and Cheryl Herndon
APRIL 2009
Tom and Sheila Moore
Charlie Worsham, Donny Fallgater and Kevin Weaver RSVP
17
Joey and Amy Dudek
Peter Atkeison and Jennifer Burkeen
Nikki Schroeder, Renee Trammell, Michelle Trammell and John Vincent
STREETSEEN
Joe Royer River Racer
APRIL 2009
O
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18
nce a competitive kayaker and U.S. Olympic team hopeful, Joe Royer knows which titles are worth the paddle to the finish line. Fittingly enough, after Royer retired from competition, he gave fellow kayakers an opportunity to seize a prestigious title right here in Memphis when he founded the Outdoors Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race. Now in its 28th year, the event’s success is largely due to Royer’s vision of hosting an allinclusive race, or one embraced by amateurs and professionals. “The racing element and the participation element are equally important and complement each other,” he says. Also rewarding is the number of entrants who keep coming back for more. Olympic gold medalist Greg Barton, who holds the fastest Outdoors Inc. Race course time at 15 minutes, 39 seconds, has competed seven times, while one father/daughter team has been involved since day one. Royer knows of many others who have participated 20 times. He laughs, “When I look at the crowd now, I see quite a few people that weren’t born when I started the race.” Having both categories of participants race on the same route of the Mississippi River has worked in the event’s favor thanks to Royer’s high emphasis on safety. He enlists expert kayakers to paddle alongside some 300 competitors to ward off potential accidents during the 5,000-meter competition, and has the Harbor Patrol, Tennessee State Wildlife Resources Agency and the Memphis Police in on the action as well. The local leg of the Coast Guard actually shuts down barge traffic during this time, and Royer also prohibits any alcoholic beverages at the top end of the race. “This [the Mississippi] is a serious river, so you need to have some basic kayak or canoe experience,” he cautions. “After all, this race is the fastest 5,000-meter race in the world because of the current of the Mississippi.” Royer’s intention, however, is not to scare off those eager to make their race debut. In fact, overcoming the mystique of how dangerous the Mississippi is was a challenge for Royer when he first began marketing his idea. He says racers eventually became comfortable enough to brave the U.S.’s longest body of water, much like people have overcome fears of paddling in San Francisco Bay. Even Royer’s wife has joined the ranks. “My wife, who is a financial advisor, has to have a rhyme and reason for what she does, but I got her to come with me in a kayak on the river, and she loves it,” he shares. If anything else, Royer hopes he’s inspired Memphians to look at the river in a new light and engage in “human-powered recreation,” which he considers high-quality living. Maybe you should jump on the boat May 2—race day. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
STREETSEEN
Jim Bobo Ancestral Hobbyist
APRIL 2009
S
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earching for one’s family roots was once regarded as an elitist endeavor, however the Tennessee Genealogical Society (TNGS), located in Germantown, proves just the opposite with its open door policy. People of all ages and backgrounds can utilize the society’s extensive 50year-old library collection and access online subscription databases at no charge. Jim Bobo, the society’s president, adds that genealogy research has become a popular pastime. “We’ve seen an explosion in the number of people interested in genealogy in the past 10 years because of the Internet,” he says. In the beginning stages of research, some people harbor fantasies of discovering a famous relative, but Bobo admits that most people are realistic about the demographics of their ancestors. He does confirm that TNGS visitors have reconnected with long-lost relatives after pouring through data or reading a family member’s name in the society’s quarterly magazine, Ansearchin’ News, which was digitized into a searchable format last year. As for setbacks, researchers sometimes hit a roadblock when trying to retrieve information about family members before the 1850s, a period when reliable census records weren’t the norm. Also, different generations often changed the family surname (Bobo says Gillespie has 32 spellings alone), and ancestors’ education levels stand in sharp contrast to today’s standards, making accurate data hit and miss. The TNGS president’s best advice is to be flexible in your search parameters and to acquire knowledge of regional history, specifically migration patterns, natural disasters or health epidemics. County records, including birth, marriage and death certificates, further aid the discovery process, and Bobo says Memphians are at an advantage because Shelby County has an electronicallyrecorded system for important records. He mentions, “What I really hope for visitors is that on their first visit they recognize the depth and variety of resources available and are able to identify at least two generations on one side of their family.” Founded by Virginia Brooks in 1952 and chartered by the state in 1954, TNGS hosts numerous in-house and offsite programming, with a seminar featuring a nationally known genealogist coming up May 16 at the adjacent Pickering Center. More obscure highlights include a new Native American collection and members who possess talents in everything from photo restoration to penning family legends. “The Tennessee Genealogical Society is made up of all volunteers, which is great because it takes a village to get info out,” Bobo shares. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
Spring Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is May 10th
has Sprung! Join in the fun with these specials during April.
5 FREE Units of BOTOXÂŽ Cosmetic! With purchase of any BOTOXÂŽ treatment area. $50 Value
BIG Savings on our New XC Laser Peel! ProFractional XC DayPeels just $250 each. $50 Savings
Dermatology Derma tology Re Realm alm 901-362-7170 2-7170 www.dermatologyrealm.com .dermatologyrealm.com 2120 Mer Merchants chants Row, Row, Suit Suitee 2 Germantown, Germant own, TN 38138
Cosmetic CConsultations Cosmetic ar ayss fr ay aree alw always free.
Easy Rebates on RestylaneÂŽ & PerlaneÂŽ Up tto $150 off by mail-in rebate. $100-$150 Value
Come Join Us at the Spring Market!
(901) 309-2200 7990 Trinity Road Memphis, TN 38018
The whole gang will be there! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be offering fantastic specials on our most popular procedures and products, giving FREE Hand Treatments to all, and holding drawings for FREE BOTOXÂŽ! Dr. Baker and Staff will be on hand to answer questions and there will be plenty of pictures and information. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much like our popular Open House, only better! You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss it.
LIVE ;\dfejkiXk`fej Â&#x203A; FREE $25 Gift Cards (while supplies last) FREE 9FKFOÂ&#x17E; ;iXn`e^j Â&#x203A; FREE ),' ?Xe[ Ko Â&#x203A; )' F]] Obagi
APRIL 2009
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21 RSVP
AGRICENTER INTERNATIONAL
®
EVENT
Oscar Night America
OSCAR NIGHT ® AMERICA
Live Telecast Party
R
APRIL 2009
Matt Peace and Rae Lyn Hartley
Gary Jones and Teresa Starnes
RSVP
22
ed carpets aren’t reserved just for Hollywood anymore, as evidenced at Memphis’ own Oscar Night® America party. Bedecked in fashionable ensembles, 450 movie gurus traveled 35 stories high to the Tower Room for a beautiful view of the city lights and today’s hottest stars, or rather their look-alikes. Sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, the party provided a front row seat to the Oscars® and helped raise more than $65,000 for the Ronald McDonald House® Charities of Memphis. The event continues to grow in popularity each year, with 2009 marking Oscar Night America’s eighth anniversary. And it’s no wonder, as each guest is shown a true red carpet experience, complete with adoring fans, paparazzi and a pre-show reporter asking, “Who are you wearing?” Upon arrival, attendees also scored champagne, complemented by innovative cuisine from 10 participating restaurants: Pearl’s Oyster House, Itta Beena, Just for Lunch, Magnolia Grill at The Horseshoe, Kooky Canuck, Tower Room, The Melting Pot, Ciao Bella, Café Toscana and Paula Deen Buffet. Each vendor offered its finest appetizers and/or desserts in hopes of winning a coveted Food Star Award. Savory selections like Jack Daniel’s chocolate bellinis, she-crab soup and mini turkey and tomato sandwiches with pesto mayonnaise made the judges’ decision tough, but nonetheless awards went to Kooky Canuck (Best Dessert), Ciao Bella (Star Chef) and Paula Deen Buffet (Best Cuisine). Magnolia Grill also earned the Best Movie Themed Booth for its tribute to Johnny Cash in Walk the Line. Throughout the evening, a silent and live auction offered guests many luxuries. From an Oscar package to a Jaffe Studio black and white portrait package to a spa day at Pavo Salon, there was an endless array of tempting goodies. The Share-A-Night live auction item drew the most attention to the cause, since its bidder helped raise money for families to continue to stay free of charge at the Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. Guests could also throw in a donation of their choice for a chance to have a picture taken in front of an Oscar backdrop. As the best actor and actress winners were announced in the Academy Awards Viewing Room, good times abounded in the ballroom, where partygoers danced to favorite ‘80s covers by Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster. Presenting sponsor Century Management LLC/ McDonald’s, gold sponsor Harrah’s Entertainment and several in-kind donors helped make this high energy evening possible, all to support Memphis’ “home-away-from-home” for families staying in Memphis during their child’s medical treatment. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Photos by Don Perry Password: RSVP
Jim and Camille Dixon
Ashley Tankersley and Alan Faircloth
Kelly and Steve Pairolero
Julie Hopkins and Parker Patterson
Greg and Allison Gilbert
Jill Barnum, Mark Walden and Cindy Teigland
Chrissie and David Tashie
EVENT Steve and Lisa Doss
Margaret and Don Smith
Madelyn Gray and Sherry Brooks
APRIL 2009
OSCAR NIGHT 速 AMERICA Tom and Laura Withers
RSVP
23
Jeff and Valerie Morris
Keith Davis and Traci Pigue
Chris Thomas and Melinda Aldison
Suzie Wade and Anner Echols
EVENT OSCAR NIGHT 速 AMERICA APRIL 2009
Shelly Baker and Tiffany Deal
Steven Hunter and Rashedah Young
J.D. and Michele Spears
John Jenkins and Gayl Baker
Warren Pan and Andrea Dunger
RSVP
24
Bo and Laura Adams
Jenny Larkin and John Campbell
Tom Prestigiacomo and Codi Robbins
Steve and Marcie Lykins
Eva Lynn Bishop and Ally Luciano
Hope Dooner and David Gingold
Sharon Young Mycra Pac Sandy Starkman Nick and Zoe 600 West Brighton Onex Shoes Vanilia Jeans And Tribal!
Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates, PLLC Purvisha Patel MD, FAAD, FASDS Board Certified Dermatologist Fellowship Trained Mohs and Cosmetic Surgeon • Dermatological Treatment of Skin Conditions, Hair and Nails • Botox, Fillers, Chemical Peels and Liquid Lift • Skin Cancer Screenings • Removal of Cysts, Warts and Moles • Skin Cancer Surgery
Gracie
2 Girls & A Trunk Unique Women’s Apparel & Accessories 694 N. Germantown Pkwy # 60 Trinity Commons - Cordova, TN
7658 Poplar Pike • Ger mantown, TN 38138 901.759.2322
758-6311
Located Across from Germantown High School. Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Mon. - Sat. 10 - 6
APRIL 2009
(Mohs Micrographic Surgery)
spring has sprung The auction event not to be missed!
This casual evening features tapas, open bar, the winemakers of Spring Mountain and 55 live & 60+ silent auction items including these highlights: · Unforgettable trip to Spring Mountain with airfare, limousine, fine dining, and private tours · Charleston beach house
grand auction sat may 9 5 pm $150 per person
· 12 pieces of original art · Mega bottle of 2004 Aragone with original artwork by Michael Stipe of REM · Exclusive wine dinners, tastings, and cellar tours Sponsors: Acura of Memphis · Pinnacle Airlines Corp. · Stanford Private Wealth Management · The Parker Family, in memory of Tony M. Parker, Sr. · Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar · Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs · David Lusk Gallery · Buster’s Liquors & Wines · Hart Davis Hart Wine Co. · Oak Hall · Memphis Magazine · Paulsen Printing · RAM Entertainment · Thomas Chu, M.D. · Athens Distributing Co. of Tennessee · Delta Wholesale Liquors · Southwestern Beverage Distributing · Star Distributors · United Liquors · The Victor L. Robilio Company · VIP Memphis Magazine · DCI Gallery · Michael Carpenter & Switch Creative · Graphic Systems, Inc.
to purchase tickets, visit www.theartofgoodtaste.org or call 544.6209
RSVP
25
Jeanne Arthur
Fontaine Taylor BROKER
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OPENING DOORS SIN
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651 Oakleaf Office Lane
Memphis, TN 38117
(Phone) 901-767
Camilla Brinner
Carrie Brody
1785 Harbert Avenue $ 949,000 Jeanne Arthur
REDUCED PRICE!
Park Terrace Penthouse $ 319,000 -- $399,000 Jeanne Arthur
3015 Tishomingo Lane $ 399,000 Jeanne Arthur
450 Alexander Street $ 219,000 Debbie Gould
Cissy Brown
Fontaine Brown
Jeannie Bruce
Rita Burgess
Elaine B. Creson
2996 Iroquois Road $ 699,000
Jenny Grehan & Fontaine Brown
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A Trek Across the City’s Party L andscape MCA Works of Heart Auction and Exhibit benefiting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center
cious concourse of the Memphis College of Art, where complimentary beer and wine were served. On the ground level, Fratelli’s Fine Catering provided scrumptious trays
A week before Valentine’s Day, love
laden with spicy chicken satay, panini sand-
was already in the air, not to mention all
wich bites, mini crab cakes with remoulade,
over the walls and several tables, at the
cheeses and chocolate-dipped strawberries—
Memphis Child Advocacy Center’s (MCAC) 17th annual MCA Works of Heart Auction and Exhibit. Stephen and Beth Crump
Once again, an A-list crowd of Memphis artists was given 12-inch wooden
in an array of chic finery, with volunteers
hearts to use for many diverse creations, all
donning blazing red feather boas. MCAC director Nancy Williams and staffers Virginia Stallworth and Beryl Wight were on hand to welcome guests as celebrity
APRIL 2009
emcee Kym Clark of WMC-TV 5 got the Louise and Cliff Hunt
Smith’s “Haven” sparked quite a bit of interest with its 4-foot-tall wooden ladder
28 RSVP
auction underway. Of the art, Dolph
perfect for one of the first nights this year
reaching into the center of a simple, red
that hinted of springtime weather.
heart where an open window revealed a
The auction did not begin until 7 Robert Brace and Gene Laurenzi
homelike setting. Perhaps the most off-the-
p.m., but 15 minutes prior, the auction was
wall creation was a heart-themed music
already packed with art-hungry guests,
video created by Jon Sparks. Certainly the
of which were auctioned off for the benefit
including Congressman Steve Cohen, Mary
most of-the-moment creation was Brantley
of the programs and services of MCAC.
Ann and Bob Patterson, Robert Brace, Gene
Elzey’s Obama-themed heart.
This year more than 100 artists participat-
Proud event sponsors included
ed, including headliners Dolph Smith, John
Good Advertising, Jaco-Bryant Printers,
McIntire, George Hunt, Valerie Berlin,
Morris & Associates and Roadshow BMW
David Mah, John Robinette, Maysey
Mini, which provided two fire engine red
Craddock, Mimi Semmes Dann, Ted Rust,
Mini Coopers that greeted guests at the
Agnes Gordon Stark and Niles Wallace.
door.
The event took place on the spaStory and photos by Jonathan Devin
Kelsey and Wes Melton
Laurenzi, Kelsey and Wes Melton, Louise and Cliff Hunt, Julie and Steve Hoyman, Maritza Davila, Kristi and Jim Duckworth, Beth and Stephen Crump, Jessie Smith, Jean and Sam Moss, Becky and Jeremy Meredith Joyner, Leah Joyner and Martha Lanier
McElduff, Meredith Joyner, Leah Joyner and Martha Lanier. These attendees arrived
Symphony League “Unforgettable Valentine Luncheon” Roses were red, but hearts were not blue at the Symphony League’s Unforgettable Valentine Luncheon.” This “U
pre-Valentine’s party, held at the Memphis
program and knew it was going to be fun
Hunt and Polo Club, warmed everyone’s spir-
because it featured jazz vocalist and guitarist
its by offering a dose of romantic tunes
John Pizzarelli. The main course entailed a
before Cupid came to visit.
tribute to the great Nat King Cole. “So much of Nat King Cole’s music is beautiful ballads, so I think it’s a good pairing with Valentine’s Day,” Schlegel said. Local singer Joyce Cobb rounded out the agenda with her rendition of “Unforgettable” and many other hits, like Shelby Terry and Billie Jean Graham
“Walking in Memphis.” John Thomas Page accompanied her on the piano. A dessert of
and CEO of the Memphis Symphony, took the podium next and spoke about the symFlorence Leffler and Charlotte Neal
phony’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. tribute concert, a free event which occurred the fol-
The lunch hour began with Florence Leffler, the Symphony League president, say-
lowing Sunday at the Cannon Center and featured the Central High School Choir. He
ing, “It is so encouraging to know we have so many people who support us.” Indeed, guests filled the dining room,
Betty Cruzen, Bobbi Ferraro and Betty Crowe
Valentine monkeys. As lunch was served, Amy Meadows, chair of the nominating com-
peppermint ice cream with chocolate sauce and heart-shaped sugar cookies complemented the sweet sound nicely. Those enjoying the festivities that Nancy Lou Jones, Bejay Gronauer and Renay Jones
brought awareness to the arts were Charlotte Neal, Scottie Cobb, Gloria Nobles, Caroline
offered attendees a 10 percent discount on
Brown, Shelby Terry, Betty Cruzen, Bobbi
tickets and encouraged members to buy their
Ferraro, Betty Crowe, Susan Burrow, Mimi
tickets quickly since 8,000 people had
Roy, Geri Cuoghi, Rose Mary Pace, Carolyn
already requested seats.
Carnesale, Foy Coolidge, Cristina Ward,
Guest conductor Rudi Schlegel was Amy Meadows, Scottie Cobb, Gloria Nobles and Caroline Brown
Jones. Billie Jean Graham chaired the event,
geared up for the symphony’s Saturday-night
and Sissy Long was the club hostess.
mittee, announced the slate of officers for
Valentine’s concert. Schlegel said he put
the 2009/2010 season. Ryan Fleur, president
together a buffet of Pops favorites for the
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Nancy Lou Jones, Bejay Gronauer and Renay
also in attendance to get luncheon-goers
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hearts, music notes, mini-keyboards and
APRIL 2009
which had been decorated with balloons,
Youth Villages 20th Anniversary of Soup Sunday It was a frigid winter morning in Downtown Memphis as people bundled in coats and hats waited in long lines for a piping hot cup of soup…but this was no ordinary soup kitchen. Youth Villages presented the 20th annual Soup Sunday at the FedExForum, with almost 50 restaurants participating in what has clearly become a staple of the Memphis social calendar. Booths representing restaurants, including Houston’s, Charles Vergo’s Rendezvous, Automatic Slim’s, The APRIL 2009
the forum to the delight of hundreds of eager soup tasters like Jessie
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Costello, Eenise Farris, Jim Elliott, Isa and Jes Crownover, Gayle
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Melting Pot and Ruth’s
and Michael Hapner, Cheryl and Brian Bockhold, Crystal and Rick
Jessie Costello and Eenise Farris
Chris Steak House, lined the circular concourse of
McDonald and Melissa, Bill and Matthew Crosno. Adding to the merriment were the Memphis Grizzlies Dance Team and the Memphis Doctors Dance Band, who performed jazz standards for the 13th year. A children’s area complete with an inflatable castle and Oreo-stacking contest lit the faces of the event’s smaller participants. Some of the soup offerings included a beer cheese soup from the Flying Saucer, an exquisite roasted red pepper soup from Just for Lunch, the Dixie Café’s to-die-for chicken noodle
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French, Kitty Bridges, Bessie Gordon, Gwen and
Gayle and Michael Hapner
Rick and Crystal McDonald with Cheryl and Brian Bockhold
Anthony Watkins, Sherri and Tatum Butler and Emma, Tristan, Melissa and Austen Onek, were given a cardboard cupholder at the door and often broke smiles as they balanced multiple cups of soup while working their way around the premise. Attire for the event was clearly casual with most arriving in
1950s skirts, acid green feather
APRIL 2009
blue jeans and tee shirts under their
boas, sunglasses and tiaras to add a
31
warm winter wrappings. Volunteers for the event, however, donned red
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touch of rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll to the atmosphere.
Emma, Tristan, Melissa and Austen Onek
Esteemed sponsors for the
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Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis,” said event planner and Phoenix Club member Gaines Conaway. Gaming tables were all but abandoned as Lord T. and Eloise fans crowded the stage to hear a special performance by the nationally celebrated local “aristocrunk” rappers. And in good Fat Tuesday form, drinks were a-flowin’ amidst cocktail dresses, dress suits and jeans and tee shirts. Bill, Matthew and Melissa Crosno
Nine college-age men, who had the
Jonathan Kelly and Meredith Marr
12,000 emotionally and behaviorally troubled
intention of performing community service
children.
by helping juvenile delinquents, started the
Stramel, Kate Clinton, Phil Goforth, Bill
Phoenix Club in 1955. Through the past 10
Justice, Patrick Jordan, Dave Smith, Christina Ramsey, Meredith Marr, Marcus
Story and photos by Jonathan Devin
Grandberry, Darrin Hines, Diego Quinonez, Julio Alvarado, John Jenkins, Gayl Baker, Nathan Hill, Aaron Brownward, Megan Hill,
APRIL 2009
Mardi Gras in New Orleans, when you can
32
head downtown and throw down at the Cadre
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Phoenix Club Mardi Gras Party
Building? At least that was the mindset of
Why drive five hours (depending on your ethics on speeding) to experience
close to 1,400 revelers at this year’s Phoenix Club Mardi Gras Party.
Gaines Conaway, Nathan Hill and Aaron Brownward
years, the annual cash contributions by the Phoenix Club to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis have ranged from
Michael McLaughlin, Jessica Sarno and Keli Rabon
$146,000 to $175,000 from the Mardi Gras Party, the annual Greeting Card Campaign,
Courtney McGinnis, Jocelyn and Oscar
the Send a Kid to Camp project and other
Atkinson, Frank Langston, David Ratton,
fund-raising efforts.
Jonathan Kelly, Pat Keathley, Jake McRae,
“What it all comes down to is raising
Michael McLaughlin, Jessica Sarno, Keli Rabon, Kat Gordon, Jonathan Large, Adam Emerson, Ginger and David Slocum and Chris Sovczha. Story and photos by Lesley Young
Adam Emerson, Ginger and David Slocum and Chris Sovczha
One of several fund-raisers held throughout the year by the club to sponsor the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, the event drew a record attendance, and
Megan Hill and Courtney McGinnis
Orpheum Theatre’s Dinner on Stage
funds raised were in excess of $25,000. “This was something we could never have imagined. We nearly tripled our profit from last year, and all of that money goes to a very important, local cause—the Boys and
Theatre lovers got behind-the-scenes money for the Boys and Girls Clubs of
access to the Orpheum Theatre at the
Greater Memphis. We just like to have a
Orpheum’s Dinner on Stage event. The inti-
good time doing it,” Conaway said. Others in attendance included Sarah
mate affair was limited to 90 people, who helped support the Memphis Development
lobby for a champagne toast. Halloran then captured everyone’s attention by sharing historical tidbits of the theatre’s heyday and explaining how the foundation was developed. Guests also got a sense of the facility’s finery, including the elaborate chandeliers boasting Czech crystals that hang in the
Mark and Judy Long, Casey Greer and Alan Greer
foyer; each of these chandeliers would cost $2.5 million to replace, according to Halloran. The tour moved to the auditorium, where the action picked back up with a performance by
optic backdrop of twinkling lights, which made it appear as if guests were dining underneath the stars. Adding to the elegance was a delicious buffet of broccoli salad, caprese tartlets, sesame sautéed asparagus, herb encrusted pork tenderloin, Low Country shrimp and grits, Death by Chocolate and bread pudding prepared by A Moveable Feast. Beautiful arrangements of calla lilies mixed with red roses arranged by Holliday Flowers were the finishing touch to the tables, which were positioned across the Orpheum stage, giving guests the perspective stage actors would have during a performance. A Broadway trivia contest also took place
Leanne McQuown, Kate Hackett and Anne Halloran
Heather Holliday, who was last year’s Orpheum Star Search runner-up. Halloran said that this competition is one of the Orpheum’s programs of which he is most proud, as it gives young vocalists
during the feast. Tables competed against each other by answering a list of questions, like who the male leads were in Damn Yankees and the most consecutively well-attended show at the Orpheum. The winning team, which consisted of Judy and
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backstage tour, where guests could walk the halls, which were lined with actors’ signatures from Broadway performances, and visit dressing rooms once used by stars like Robert Goulet and Yul
Michelle Freire and Anthony Troxel
Mark Long, Casey Greer, Alan Greer and Jason Bowles, took home Orpheum scarves and a copies of the movie shown earlier that night. Others who enjoyed the festivities were Anthony Troxel, Michelle Freire, Leanne Jennifer Stange and John Hill
McQuown, Kate Hackett, Anne Halloran, Jennifer Stange and John Hill.
night! For this occasion, Halloran debuted a fiber-
225 Arbor Common Circle Memphis, TN 38120
901.747.2011 www.ArborsRiverOaks.com riveroaks@fogelman-properties.com
Brynner. The evening’s finale was the hit of the
Arbors of River Oaks
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
APRIL 2009
opened the evening by greeting attendees in the
33 RSVP
Pat Halloran, the Orpheum president,
Arbors of River Oaks
Orpheum.
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Foundation, which is a nonprofit that runs the
ONSITE
Onsite
Youth Villages Soup Sunday Kickoff River Oaks Garden Club Valentine’s Dinner Polar Bear Plunge Celebrity Waiters’ Night
Y
APRIL 2009
John Kimbrough with Sara and Bryce Whitaker at Celebrity Waiters’ Night
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34
Bonny Kinney, Sherri Maxey and Jim Byrd at Celebrity Waiters’ Night
outh Villages celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Soup Sunday fund-raiser with a kickoff party at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Sponsors, restaurants, volunteers and founders united for the occasion to sample hors d’oeuvres and see the unveiling of the main event posters. Danny Sumrall and Mike Warr were also honored as the Restaurant Association Humanitarians of the Year. The 65 women who are members of the River Oaks Garden Club celebrated their accomplishments for the past year at the group’s fifth annual Valentine’s Dinner. The special occasion was held for the first time this year outside of one of the members’ homes at the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club. The evening began with wine and appetizers to the soothing tunes of the Living Daylights Jazz Trio, then progressed to dinner, complete with the club’s signature dessert—hot fudge brownies—and finished with dancing to hot sounds by DJ Huff. Though temperatures hung in the ‘60s, the Mississippi River remained cold enough to call the ninth annual Polar Bear Plunge by its rightful name. The fund-raiser attracted fraternities, church groups and supporters of the Special Olympics of Greater Memphis to Wolf River Harbor on Mud Island River Park to taste test some chili and raise dollars by garnering sponsorships to take the plunge into the Mighty Mississippi. Close to 100 people braved the numbing waters, some in costumes, while onlookers enjoyed an unusually warm day. Local media personalities tried their hands at waiting tables to kick off the 18th annual ROCK 103 Ronald McDonald House Radiothon. Boscos Squared hosted the Celebrity Waiters’ Night event, which was well represented by Celebrity Waiter alums Cameron Harper, Tim Spencer, John “Bad Dog” McCormack, Ric Chetter and Tom Dees. Rookie waiters included Markova Reed, Bonny Kinney, Devin Steele and Lee Warren. A portion of proceeds from Boscos’ special “Radiothon Brew” and “Cheeseburger Pizza” and all of the Celebrity Waiters’ tips benefited the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Memphis.
Ken and Brenda Glass with Ron and Patti Callan at River Oaks Garden Club Valentine’s Dinner
Kay and Jim Liles at River Oaks Garden Club Valentine’s Dinner
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick and Lesley Young Marilyn Kain, Paul Coombs and Sandi Tucker at Youth Villages Soup Sunday Kickoff
Sloane Taylor, Patrick Healy and Lisa Taylor at Polar Bear Plunge
Ron Wong with Hallie and Noel Crook at Polar Bear Plunge
Brad and Joanna Brown with Melissa Taylor and Jeff Goggans at Polar Bear Plunge
Jamesa and Perry Sponseller at Youth Villages Soup Sunday Kickoff
ONSITE
Onsite
Grand Krewe of Luxor Coronation Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation American Cancer Society Cocktail Reception
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Valerie Morris, Leighanne Hart and Ellen Grisanti at American Cancer Society Cocktail Reception
Story by Ruth Cassin, Leah Fitzpatrick and Lesley Young Photos by Skipworth/Craig Collier, Leah Fitzpatrick and Roy Haithcock
David Minto and Anna Humerickhouse at Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation
Jamille Laughlin, Tom Cross and Buddy Finley at Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation
Matt Wilson with Gary and Judith Edge at American Cancer Society Cocktail Reception
Bill and Sherri Lunn with Wanda Barzizza at Grand Krewe of Luxor Coronation
Witt Neloni with Lauren, Jennifer and King Don Lasseter at Grand Krewe of Luxor Coronation
APRIL 2009
Kate Pera and Russell McDaniel at Grand Krewe of Sphinx Coronation
35 RSVP
Dr. Irvin Fleming, Lisa Roth and Peter Pettit at American Cancer Society Cocktail Reception
he bugle sounded, and the ceremonies began to announce this year’s royal court of the Grand Krewe A Call to Post—A Day at of Luxor. On a night themed “A the Races,” King Don Lasseter and Queen Lanetta Lanier, along with their guards and duchesses, walked the royal procession to kick off the evening. The Esplanade in Cordova was transformed into a race for royalty during the special occasion, while the King Beez delighted the ears of diners and drinkers. Joining the cortege were representatives from the 2009 Carnival Memphis children’s charities, including the Memphis Oral School for the Deaf, Streets Ministries and Youth Villages. It was a star-studded night as the Grand Krewe of Sphinx celebrated the coronation of its 2009 royalty at Memphis Botanic Garden. Held the evening before Hooray the Academy Awards, the party’s theme was “H for Hollywood,” and the black and gold color scheme featured decorations of stars, balloons, faux Oscar statuettes, filmstrips and “take” board cutouts. The royalty tables were decked with roses atop miniature pillars and strewn with pearls. Following the presentation of Queen Judy Jones, King Russell McDaniel, Grand Duchess Debbie Hummel and Duchesses Libby Jones Zoghby, Gloria Kirk, Debbie Bryant, Virginia Cortese and Pam Cain, attendees enjoyed a sumptuous cocktail buffet and danced the night away to the sounds of Moriah. Bob Bryant is this year’s Sphinx chairman, and Hooper Jones serves as the flagman. Robert and Jennifer Hanusovsky hosted the American Cancer Society Cocktail Reception at their home to bring awareness to the nonprofit’s Hope Lodge campaign. Frank and Ellen Grisanti supplied the hors d’oeuvres for the event, which had a turnout of nearly 100 supporters. The Hope Lodge will serve as a shortterm residential facility equipped with 40 patient suites, where any patient receiving oncology treatment at a Memphis hospital can stay free of charge. The facility will be located next to Sun Studio on land donated by the University of Tennessee.
Buddy and Queen Lanetta Lanier at Grand Krewe of Luxor Coronation
VOX POPULAR
Vox Popular Q&A with Marguerite Piazza
T
hroughout her career, Marguerite Piazza traveled extensively for stage and television engagements, but since her retirement, this opera star hasn’t settled down one bit. Instead, Piazza, a cancer survivor herself, has dedicated her efforts to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through the Marguerite Piazza St. Jude Gala. RSVP editor Leah Fitzpatrick met with Piazza in her home, which is filled with numerous mementos and photographs of Piazza’s singing days, to learn the dynamics behind the longest continuously running charity gala in Memphis. On April 18, hundreds will gather at The Peabody for the 34th anniversary of the gala in her namesake, and Piazza hopes to help raise $1 million that night to cover one day’s worth of St. Jude’s operating costs.
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Piazza: It was in a way. I was going to open in Houston at the Fairmont, and I had a completely new act and needed a place to try it out. So, the man I had here said, “I’ll tell you what. Why don’t we have a gala, and we’ll give the money we make to a charity?” Then he asked who I wanted to give the money to, and I thought I’d been there with Danny [Thomas] at the opening of St. Jude, so why not just give the money to St. Jude. Then, my husband and I rented the hotel [the airport Marriott Hotel] and all the orchestra, and my son, Gregory Condon, did the lights and the sound, and we were off and running. We sold the tickets to our friends at the Memphis Country Club mostly, and it was great. We had about 400 people, and we made some money and gave it to St. Jude, and, of course, it didn’t cost as much in those days to run St. Jude as it does now. RSVP: Which do you think was scarier: your first gala for St. Jude or your debut at the Metropolitan Opera? Piazza: [Laughs] Well, I almost burned down the Met, you know. I was all set to go on, and I had a vast dressing room with lots of Kleenex that I used to put on and take off my makeup and clean up. With about 10 minutes to go before the show started, I decided I would flush the Kleenex in the toilet, and the toilet in the dressing room was so old that it had a tank above it, so I thought I would stop the toilet up if I flushed the tissue. I then thought I would just burn the tissue, so I got some matches that I had there, but what I didn’t know was that the wooden seat was so old, it was covered with celluloid, which is flammable. So, when the lit match hit the seat, this big flame came up, and I thought, “Oh my God!” and then I hear this knock on the door, “Miss Piazza, you’re on.” The man who was doing publicity for me came and took out his handkerchief and wet it, and I said, “You’ll never put it out with that!” That’s the way I went on for the debut, so I didn’t have time to think about anything. RSVP: What motivated you to continue the gala after the first one?
Piazza: The first one was so successful, and John Ford Canale was one of the three men who Danny came to, to see where he could put a shrine he was going to build. Another of the three was a doctor, and he said, “Danny, instead of spending the money on a shrine, why don’t you give it to us and let us do research?” Danny thought that was a good idea, so they did research, and out of that came the hospital. So, John Ford suggested we do the gala again since it was successful, and we did, and that was number two. Then we did three or four, and then I got a board of directors. RSVP: Why do you think people in Memphis received the event so well? Piazza: It was the first time Memphians had ever seen a gala of that type in the city. At the same time when I was doing all this, I did the first ball for the symphony, and that was very important because they had never paid more than $10 to see anybody. I said, “If I’m going to do it, you gotta get $40 a head.” With fear and trembling, they went with me. Now, my friend, Teddy Donahue, gave the lighting…you can’t imagine what lighting does for a show. He sat down with a woman who was lighting most of the shows on Broadway and her assistant, and they came and looked at the club [the Memphis Country Club]. They decided what they would need and went back to New York and rented the equipment to send down to Memphis. People didn’t know the magic that was created with the lighting, and I don’t think they ever really thanked Teddy Donahue for what he did. This was a long time ago, but he spent $4,000 on the lights—that was a big contribution. Photos by Don Perry
APRIL 2009
RSVP: I’ve heard that the first Marguerite Piazza St. Jude Gala was a rehearsal. Is that true?
RSVP: What are some of the different ways you think the gala has evolved through the years? Piazza: Well, we’ve had all kinds of entertainment. The first 10 years, I was the one who did the entertainment, but then we had all the singers of the day. Jim Nabors came and didn’t charge us a cent. [Laughs] I have a picture over there [points] of Jim singing “Indian
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VOX POPULAR
Love Call” with me. RSVP: Do you have a favorite memory from one of the galas? Piazza: Of course, every one is unique. My daughter, Anna Becky, sings and was the star last year. She also wrote most of the songs she sang, so that was special. RSVP: How did the Healing Rose Humanitarian Award come about? Piazza: I gave the first award to Danny Thomas. I have the rose right there [points] on the shelf. We’re giving two this year, and I’m the one who selects the award, which is given to someone who has done something really great for St. Jude.
RSVP: Have you ever been a mentor to any of the kids at St. Jude who were interested in singing?
Piazza: The entertainment is a surprise, but we are honoring all the hospitals around the world that are St. Jude hospitals, and I think there are four: one in China, Lebanon, South America and Mexico. All of the research we have here [in Memphis] goes directly to them, so that they are able to treat children.
Piazza: No, most of them are too young. I will listen to somebody though, under the proviso that I will them the truth. Other than that, I will not listen. It’s a difficult life, and make no mistake about it, it’s self-sacrifice constantly. If you sing, the singer’s instrument is his or her body, and if you don’t take care of the instrument, which is your body and your mind, forget it. I can’t tell you how often I felt like I was cloistered in a convent because I had to save every ounce of my strength to do two shows a night—one at 8 and one at midnight, for an hour on the stage. It is tough. Then you must rest your body, watch what you eat, drink, everything—it’s called discipline.
RSVP: Did you ever have any doubts about the gala continuing?
RSVP: Who taught you all this discipline?
RSVP: Can you tell me any special features at this year’s event?
APRIL 2009
Piazza: No, because people love it, and it’s such a marvelous cause. St. Jude is something that only happens once in a lifetime, and they’re so generous with everything they discover and share it with the world for free, and no one pays to be treated there. We have a chorus of young people, some from St. Jude, who perform at the gala if they’re able to do it. Bob Westbrook came up with that idea, and I thought it was great. We have several of them who’ve sung that are cured patients, and that’s wonderful, too.
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a girl from New Orleans, and there’s one at the Three Arts Club. I don’t know her name, but she sings very well.” He ended up calling me on the phone that was in our hall and said, “You’ll never guess how I found you,” and I went right in to being the leading lady at his show for 13 weeks, with Robert Merrill as the boy and Rudolf Friml as the conductor. RSVP: Do you have a show or performance that you regret not doing? Piazza: I did pretty much what I wanted to do and did a lot of it, but when I came home to Memphis and had children, I took my personality like my coat and left it at the door. I didn’t ever talk about my career in Memphis or anything like that, and my children didn’t really know that much about what was going on. RSVP: Why did you turn down singing in movies? Piazza: Because I was a star on television. I went out and I did the interviews and all that stuff, and I had the contract for a Mario Lanza film, but I put in the contract a little clause that would get me out. I thought about it and thought about it, and I said, “If I do this, I might just end up a kid on the lot, and I won’t be a star. I’m a star on television.” They didn’t know at that time who would win out: television or movies. It turned out to be the only flop Lanza had in his whole career. I was lucky.
APRIL 2009
Piazza: Well, my first teacher, when I was in school at Loyola, Mr. Dunkley, was an Englishman, and he was not a singer, but he had an analytical mind, and he could tell you things that brought it into focus immediately. He saw in me something that made him know that I had the time and makeup to do it. So, he said to me one day, “You see this piano? It’s got all kinds of books all over it. It’s a mess. If you put a speck of dirt on it, it wouldn’t matter, but if it was all cleaned up and you put a dab of dirt on it, that would be terrible. That’s the way you must be. You go for perfection, and when you have perfection, no dirt is allowed, so you try your best never to have a blemish.” I learned. And I had a show in New Orleans with a band. We sang pop stuff, and Jack Simpson was the producer of the show. We had a sponsor, and the show was called, “Enjoy Life Down South with Jack’s Beer.” When I went to New York and was working as a student really, Jack Simpson tried to find me. There was a girl who lived at the Three Arts Club, and I didn’t know her, but she used to hear me practice singing. And Simpson put out a call for girl singers from New Orleans, and I had no way of knowing that because I didn’t know they did things like that, but the girl from the club worked at NBC and went to him and said, “Mr. Simpson, I know you’re looking for
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SINCE 1995
Advertising in RSVP Magazine places your message before an active, affluent market of Mid-Southerners who desire the best in quality and service.
More Than 120,000 Readers Average Household Income. . . . . . . . . . .$147,000 per year. 58.16% have HH incomes greater than . $75,000 per year. Female Readers . . . 59.2% Male Readers . . 40.8% Marital Status . . . . . . . . . 62.2% married Home Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81.3% Education: Attended/Graduated College plus . . . . . .83.0% Have Post graduate degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21.6% 88.6% . . . . Purchased a Product or Visited a Store due to Advertising in RSVP. 42.6% . . . .Traveled Abroad during the past year. 52.% . . . .Eat out at least 3 times per week. 30,000 copies delivered monthly throughout the Affluent Shopping Areas of Greater Memphis From Harbor Town to Collierville.
For Information on How to put RSVP to Work for You Call 276-7787
APRIL 2009
MADONNA CIRCLE PREVIEW GALA
EVENT
Madonna Circle Preview Gala Memphis Antiques, Garden & Gourmet Show
A Michael Herr and Ashley Elliott
Regina Scruggs and Betty Radford
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ntique lovers, dedicated gardeners and foodies packed Agricenter International for a preview of the 33rd annual Madonna Circle Memphis Antiques, Garden & Gourmet Show. With the theme “A Little Romance in Tuscany,” Madonna Circle members once again presented an outstanding party and show to benefit this year’s chosen charities: The Exchange Club Family Center and the Ave Maria Home Green House Project, each of which will receive half of all event proceeds. Nearly 40 exhibitors from the U.S. and cities as far away as London and Toronto, showed their stunning wares, which included antique furnishings, original art, estate silver and vintage jewelry. The theme display garden, inspired by the hill gardens in the Chianti region of Italy and designed and constructed by Carr and Associates and Green Group of Tennessee, featured beautiful fountains, plants, antiques and a gazebo. Sumptuous offerings generously donated from local eateries, such as Lisa’s Lunch Box, The Rendezvous, Jim’s Place East, Fratelli’s in the Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Huey’s and The Peabody, were scattered throughout the displays. And if guests couldn’t locate goodies to their liking from the vendors, local businesses contributed silent auction items in the form of gift certificates from Circa by John Bragg, Viking Cooking School classes and a Chessie’s Girls’ Night Out wine and cheese party, to name a few. More unique finds like a vintage christening lace gown, an original oil painting from Ahn’s Asian Antiques and jewelry donated by Clara Hill offered even more choices. The show, deemed a great success by co-chairs Linda Armstrong and Heather Scheibelhut, lasted throughout the weekend and had a Tea Room catered by The Woman’s Exchange of Memphis, a snack bar provided by Youth Villages and a Sunday Champagne Brunch by Foozie with an informal fashion show presented by Stein Mart. The show also featured a lecture series with local interior designers Mary Hill Shroyer and Joe Tice and prominent Mid-South florist Kevin Coble, and a presentation by Sally Shy, Stan Gibson and Libby Murphy on “Tennessee Dining.” Verbal appraisals by “Antiques Roadshow” appraiser J. Michael Flanigan were added highlights, as was the gallery tour with Frank Langford. Madonna Circle was formed in 1938 and presently has a membership of 575 women who strive to raise funds for different charities. Since the inception of the Antiques, Garden & Gourmet Show, this organization has raised more than $2 million dollars for selected beneficiaries. Story by Ruth Cassin See all the party photos at Photos by Don Perry rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Donna and Robert Staub
Bill and Nanetta Hecht
Dave and Donna Nelson
Jennifer and Kreg Treece
Catherine Dismuke and Cathy Simpson
Rebecca McRae, Leesa and Pat Gavin and Tricia Marshall
Terry and Lauren Stidham
EVENT Sharon and Dr. Jim Brawner
Kent and Lori Hansom
APRIL 2009
Deb Dunlap and Mary Anna Williamson
MADONNA CIRCLE PREVIEW GALA
Phil and Terry Woodard
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Darrell and Carol Douglas with Sherry and Kent Clothier
Eric and Dawn Nielsen
Carrie and Robert McIvor
EVENT MADONNA CIRCLE PREVIEW GALA
James and Linda Gattas
Raquel and Tommy Carls
Damon Waxler and Danica Waxler
APRIL 2009
Drs. Manju and Ramesh Gupta
Mike and Barbara McCloskey
Victoria and Bill Saig
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Barbara and Bob King
Michael Herr, Gina Warr, Ronnie Grisanti and Jose Rodriguez
Leslie Donati and Bess Farris
Don West and Andrea Dahlman
Emma Jean Pierotti with Dave and Bobbie Ferraro
EVENT MADONNA CIRCLE PREVIEW GALA
Dr. Mary McDonald, Bishop Terry Steib and Betty and David Llewellyn
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APRIL 2009
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Leslie Ford, Elaina Josephson and Matt Nason
Felicia Bursi and Geno Pacini
Jere Gerard and Nicole Yoakum
ONSITE
Onsite
Le Bonheur’s Wine, Women & Shoes Staxtacular U of M Distinguished Alumni Awards
N
early 250 soul-shakin’ guests threw down at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music for the annual
Staxtacular party. Dancing to tunes by DJ Buck Wilder, shopping for silent auction goodies donated by the NBA, Memphis celebrities and soul legends and sampling appetizers by A Moveable Feast rounded out the agenda. The event, hosted by Memphis Grizzlies players Donna Derden and Jean Lewis at Le Bonheur’s Wine, Women & Shoes
Mike Conley, Rudy Gay and OJ Mayo and presented by
Kimberly and Stephen Hale at U of M Distinguished Alumni Awards
SunTrust, raked in $72,000 for the Stax Music Academy. Le Bonheur’s Wine, Women & Shoes packed a punch with the local female population, who couldn’t resist the chance to celebrate a girls’ night. The evening included a VIP fashion show, shoes from Joseph, Tyiese Scarpa, Angelio International Designs, Oak Hall Women, Lola’s Boutique, Peria, Indigo and
APRIL 2009
Crazy Beautiful and various wines poured up at booths throughout Memphis Botanic Garden. Event proceeds, totaling $94,000, benefited Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center. The University of Memphis Alumni Association
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Carol Crown Ranta, Michael Hagge and Sherry Bryan at U of M Distinguished Alumni Awards
honored accomplished graduates and university friends Donna Henry and Belinda Henry at Le Bonheur’s Wine, Women & Shoes
with the Distinguished Alumni Awards. Attendees took the “M Train” to Central Station for the black-tie gala, where Martin Zummach, the Alumni Association president, welcomed the crowd and R. Brad Martin served as celebrity emcee. Awards went to the following: Henry Turley (Distinguished University Friend), the late Thomas Boggs (Distinguished Alumni), Walter Leavy (Distinguished Alumni), Lynn Norment (Distinguished Alumni) and Bill Rhodes (Distinguished Alumni). Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick Jim Morse and Henry Kurtz at U of M Distinguished Alumni Awards
Ashley McCandless, Ruthie Hagan and Amy Worrell at Le Bonheur’s Wine, Women & Shoes
Whitman Able, Shirley Porter and Lilly Gilkey at Staxtacular
Kerry Hayes, Jenny Koltnow, Elza Krocco and Mike McKenna at Staxtacular
Zach Brimhall and Brandy Ross at Staxtacular
T
Luke and Sloan Germann
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Kyndal Hayes and Trey Norcross
45
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by John Hammer
Perrin and Grant Hunter
Ouida and Richard Hayes
Tammy and Ric Folk
RSVP
John and Sandy Maness
he onslaught of warmer temps calls for outdoor activities, which, for Mid-South horse lovers, traditionally includes the Germantown Charity Horse Show. As a way to kick off this event and announce the show’s queen and princesses, the Germantown Charity Horse Show (GCHS) Association hosted its annual Royal Ball at Woodland Hills. Amy Beth Dudley reprised the chairman duties once again and put on “A Royal Evening” that drew a record 530 attendees. The aroma of stargazer lilies and the glow of candlelight added to the ambiance, and a lavish fruit and cheese spread awaited those ready to indulge in the cocktail hour. As the presentation of royalty neared, young ladies, dressed in white gowns, and their fathers and escorts lined up on the second floor as they prepared to promenade down the grand staircases that flanked either side of the dance floor. The 2009 princesses include Reagan Bugg, Elizabeth Compton, Grace Cowles, Sophie Dunavant, Meagan Fairchild, Elizabeth Foster, Ginny Germann, Kyndal Hayes, Kyle Hunter, Alexandra King, Mary Aubrey Landrum, Kathleen Lindsey, Alex Livesay, Morgan Maness, Sarah Martin, Caroline Motta, Madeline Rardin, Selina Ribnick, Sophie Sandlin, Elizabeth Stagich, Katie Sullivan, Jorja Swaney, Mary Elisabeth Tipton, Rebecca Todd and Emily Walker. Presiding over the royal court is Queen Bailey Fedley, who was a princess in 2006. Queen Bailey gushed, “Though I’m from Wisconsin, I have a second family here in Germantown, and I thank my aunt, Lynda Smith, the GCHS president, for introducing me to this horse show.” Princesses and the queen celebrated by dancing to “At Last” with their fathers, while other guests dined on a three-course dinner. Once the last bite of Italian wedding cake was savored, the dancing shoes came out for all as the Kathryn Stallins Band took the stage until the wee hours of the night. For the past 10 years, the GCHS has concentrated its efforts on raising funds for the Exchange Club Family Center. Special guests Barbara King, the Exchange Club executive director, and Angelo Bledsoe, the Exchange Club development director, were in attendance to represent this organization, which aims to help stop the cycle of child abuse and domestic violence. Proceeds from the ball and the 61st annual multi-breed horse show, scheduled for June 2-6, are expected to reach $25,000, according to Dudley, and will be given to the Exchange Club to further its mission.
George Dunklin Jr. and Deborah Dunklin Tipton
Lynda Smith, Queen Bailey Fedler and Jan Smith Fedler
APRIL 2009
“A Royal Evening”
GERMANTOWN HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL
EVENT
Germantown Horse Show Royal Ball
Barbara and Bob King
EVENT GERMANTOWN HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL
Cabell Brown and Morgan Maness
A.V. Palazola and Grace Cowles
Barker Howard and Olivia Cohen
APRIL 2009
Mary Aubrey Landrum and Wyatt Lindsey
Amy Beth Dudley and Madelyn Gray
Sarah Watkins and Matthew Bailey
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Bobby and Angela Bledsoe
Elisabeth Sandlin and Hunter Maynard
Henri and Katrina Haggblom
Charlie and Kay Ross
Jay Brownlow, Katie Sullivan and J.R. Sullivan
Bob Compton and Elizabeth Compton
EVENT Earnie and Toni Norcross
Phillip and Brenda Hughes
APRIL 2009
Alex and Anna Tankersley
GERMANTOWN HORSE SHOW ROYAL BALL
Alison Hughes and Brandon Reed
' E T C O N N E C T E D 3 E E Y O U R A D O N L I N E
John and Sandra Longworth
Carol and Mike Motta
Nathan Reeder and Diane Ruff
Catie Haugh and Karen Foster
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RSV PHILLIPPI
By Dennis Phillippi
300 THINGS THAT ANNOY ME
APRIL 2009
G
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uys under 60 wearing fedoras. Or vests. Or smoking a pipe. Ringtones. Minor celebrities dancing. Clove cigarettes. Loud drunks. Neck tattoos. Nickelback. Healthy vacations. Healthy vacationers. Flavored water. Unleashed toddlers. Dusting. Plaid shorts on men. Math. People wearing fanny packs. Los Angeles. Terrell Owens. Huge sunglasses. Girls who “Woo.” Being neighborly. Internet personality tests. Aging. Pictures of strangers’ children. Pictures of strangers’ pets. Pictures of strangers. Ear phones. Ear hair. Matthew McConaughey’s chest. Expensive coffee. People who miss the good old days. Dunk tanks. Novels about groups of women. Board games. Card games. The Goodwill Games. The Atlanta Falcons. Oil changes. Sequels. Threequels. Prequels. Almost every TV show TV critics love. Clubs for Adults. Not that kind, the other kind. Being hung upside down. People who name their cars. Collar poppers. The theory of relativity. That Finallyfast.com kid. The Oakland Raiders, then the LA Raiders, then the Oakland Raiders again. Beer snobs. Rock snobs. Car snobs. Nancy Grace. People with a small amount of authority. Magazine inserts. Perfume ads. Perfume. Unknown comedians talking about people more famous than them. Not being hired to talk about people more famous than me. Limp handshakes. Limp Bizkit. Ads for E.D. medicines. Bike shorts. Movies longer than two hours. Cher. Middle-aged couples boogeying. Middle-aged couples boogeying to Cher. Robert James Waller. Any guy on an ad for home gym equipment. Karaoke. The Stock Market. Yard work. Scented candles. Casual sports fans with strong opinions. Uncredited repeated jokes. Ed Begley. The news. Deforestation. Corporate radio. Not having a job in corporate radio. Michael Bolton. Twitter. Commercials before movies. Not being in commercials before movies. Hypocrisy. Morrissey. Spacek, Sissy. Turkey bacon. The line for car inspections. Getting car inspections. People who volunteer advice on how to avoid the lines for car inspections. Consciousness-raising concerts. Awarenessraising events for things everyone knows about. Doo rags. Hipsters. World music. Opera. Whiny one-hit wonders. Bloggers.
Not being paid to be a blogger. Skinny girls. Suddenly Will Ferrell. Gigantic expensive watches. Ex-patriots. The Patriots. Most ex-Patriots. Reunions. Celine Deon. People who say they only like old country music. Web videos. Mentions of celebrity baby bumps. Diet anything. Guys who still road trip. Self-cheering gym guy. Most foreign films. Sanding. Priming. Painting. Non-smoking churches. Message
Trekkers. The Chicken Dance. Commemorative plates. Air guitarists. wristbands. Mincemeat. Vinyl record honks. Bumper stickers. Trends. Paris. Britney. Lindsay. My neighbors seeing my recyclables. Dane Cook. Dane Cook’s fans. Hockey. Hockey fans. Gum popping. 20year-olds. Gum popping 20-year-olds. Openmouthed chewing. Open-mouthed chewing 20-year-olds. Flossing. Not flossing. MySpace. Facebook. My face. Really tall girls wearing high heels. People who remember Punk fondly. Tuneless whistlers. Novelty ties. Serious bowlers. Trekkers. The Chicken Dance. Commemorative plates. Air guitarists. Civil war re-enactors. Equivocators. Most moderates. The Little League World Series. Camera phones. Ferret owners. People who have people. People who need people. Non-sports reality TV. Astroturf. The Designated Hitter. The phantom tag. Tournaments Tiger isn’t in. Feng Shui. Other people texting. Self check-out. Southern weather apologists. Ham radio buffs. Crazy ex-girlfriends. Tether ball. Frank Oz movies. NCAA tournament Cinderella references. The play “Endgame.” Final Jeopardy. Pau Gasol’s beard. Judo. “Juno.” Bracketology. Black lung. Pet sounds. “Pet Sounds.” Priapism. Power ballads. Gender equity. Sexism. Wafflers. Year-end top 10 lists. Any nonLetterman top 10 lists. She-Hulk. Jeff Gordon. Kelp. Super white teeth guy.
Patchouli. Tulips. Coin tricks. Rhythmic gymnastics. Canadian coins. Canadian football. Canadians. Bath mats. Change. Acquaintances’ kids’ graduation notices. Presidential libraries. Aquariums. Terrariums. Arboreums. Chris Noth. Chiclets. People who think outside the box. Tennis socks. Joakim Noah. Trucker hats. Air drummers. People who tell you how they are when you ask. Conjoined twins. Gamers. The continuing coverage of missing people I don’t know. Sand gardens. Ceramics. Take your daughter to work day. Lefties. Sore winners. Carnies. Commemorative stamps. Holocaust movies. Leno. Emoticons. General seating. Movies with cute kids. Movies with smart aleck kids. Movies with kids. Sparkling water. Las Vegas. Tuxedo tee shirts. Reboots of old TV shows. Sting. Not being able to go to Cuba. Tiny hotel soaps. Air guitarist, pool cue division. Marching bands. Children’s literature being called literature. Snuggie ads. The extinction of the hot flight attendant. The title flight attendant. Green beer. Pressure to eat sushi. Unfunny funerals. Serious co-ed softball players. Process servers. Redialed wrong numbers. Personal slogans. Personal mottos. Personal space invaders. Feeling guilty about not having a canvas grocery bag. Pet birds. Rachael Ray. Defensive driving school. Cilantro. Novelty meats. Cover bands. The Honus Wagner card. “Send in the Clowns.” Teen soap operas. Renaissance fairs. Netflix marathoners. Memoirists. Comebacks. Keanu Reeves. Surly drones. People who quote Will Ferrell movies. Sneaker squeaks. Abstract art. Bob Huggins. “Knights in White Satin.” Dallas. The last five Star Wars movies. Pictionary. Oprah Magazine. Smooth jazz. Ice in whiskey. Middle-weight boxing. Mysteries. Procedurals. Forensics. Chipper people. Very small dogs. Budgets. Wishful thinking. Negative thinking. Thinking. Best Pictures. Graduations of anything before the end of high school. ER. Afghanistan. Portrait tattoos. And, of course, Austin Onek.
Do you really want to hear 301 annoying things? Didn’t think so, so we’ll leave our resident humor columnist’s unabridged encyclopedia of annoying things at that.
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The Original Society Pages
rsvpmagazine.com
rsvpmagazine.com
APRIL 2009
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Summer Camp Special
49 RSVP
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RSVPAST
School Friendships
APRIL 2009
1940s
RSVP
50
A
fter graduation school friends often lose touch, but the eighth grade class (pictured at right) of St. Thomas Elementary School, located at Trigg and Lauderdale, has proven otherwise. Last October, the group met at Jim’s Place East to celebrate its 60th class reunion. Many of the same students from that eighth grade class were also in the second grade first communion class (pictured at left) at St. Thomas and still see each other regularly. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOYCE (STOVALL) JENSEN 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.
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