RSVP Magazine September 2014 by RSVP Magazine

September 2014

SportsBall Wine and Dine Blues on the Bluff速 Dreamgivers Gala Phoenix Club Summer Party Q&A with David Porter

CONTENTS

Contents September 201 4

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 RSVP meets up with woman of the “historically hip” Memphis neighborhood, Tamara Cook, executive director of the Cooper Young Business Association, to discuss some of her favorite places in Memphis and her homemade chicken and dumplings.

Wine and Dine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Some of the finest chefs in the city prepared special dishes for the Special Olympics of Greater Memphis.

12 WINE AND DINE Carmen A. Jones and Andrew Butler Jr.

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 & 20 He is establishing a veterans resource center in the historic Ashlar Hall. This duo is bringing fresh and healthy meals straight to your door. StreetSeens highlight Jerome Hardaway along with Nevada Presley and Holly Guthrie.

DREAMGIVERS GALA Ann and Bill Hobbs

SportsBall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 14

Guests wore sneakers with their suits at the annual SportsBall in support of Big Brother and Big Sisters of Greater Memphis.

Ambassador Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 A Claire Vision Eugene Pidgeon features author Claire Fullerton, former Memphian and California transplant, and he delves into the nature of writing as a Southerner and the nuances of a great writer.

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Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Q&A with David Porter, legendary songwriter as well as the chairman, president and founder of The Consortium Memphis Music Town.

46 PHOENIX CLUB SUMMER PARTY Mary and Stuart Maxwell

Blues on the Bluff® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Blues, barbecue and beer at the National Ornamental Metal Museum was the order of the day at the blusey fund-raiser for Memphis’ only listener-supported radio station, 89.9 FM WEVL.

SPORTSBALL Adrienne and D’Army Bailey

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44, 52, 53, 62 & 63 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

Phoenix Club Party Summer Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Summertime and the living was easy at the Phoenix Club of Memphis’ party in the Overton Square Courtyard.

Dreamgivers Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Forever Young Senior Wish Organization raised money to send WWII veterans back to Belgium to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.

RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Parenting the Norwegian Way This month, Dennis Phillippi humorously dishes out advice about international parenting practices, something every parent wants to hear from a “nonparent.”

BLUES ON THE BLUFF® Emily and Joe Litzow

30 VOX POPULAR David Porter

Cover Photo Ashley Jolly and Lauren Bowie at Phoenix Club Summer Party Photo by Don Perry

R SV P S TA F F Volume XIX

Number XII

September 201 4 PUBLISHER

Roy Haithcock EDITOR

R achel Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Adams Keplinger Dennis Phillippi Eugene Pidgeon Suzanne Thompson Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR

Patrick Aker s

CHRIS PUGH, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 901.276.7787, EXT. 103 chris@rsvpmagazine.com

Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Baxter Buck Patrick L antrip Don Perry Steve Roberts ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Chris Pugh Robin Morgan ACCOUNTING

ROBIN MORGAN ,

Ruth Cassin

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 901.276.7787, EXT. 104 robin@rsvpmagazine.com

EDITORIAL INTERN

Patrick L antrip

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6 RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to: Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104

Having worked in advertising for 13 years, Robin is most passionate about magazine print. Her energy is contagious and she counts as her hobbies running, shopping and spending time with her girl friends. Robin's "bright spot" is her daughter Emily Anne. Robin loves living in downtown Memphis, which affords her the opportunity to run down Riverside Drive anytime!

For advertising information contact Roy Haithcock Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax (901) 276-7785 e-mail publisher@rsvpmagazine.com WEB

www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event. Call 901-276-7787, ext. 105 or fax to 901-276-7785. e-mail editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on

RSVP Memphis Magazine

PATRICK LANTRIP, EDITORIAL INTERN 901.276.7787, EXT. 107 patrickl@rsvpmagazine.com

Patrick Lantrip is currently seeking his journalism degree at the University of Memphis, where he also serves as the managing editor of The Daily Helmsman. A native of Midtown Memphis, Patrick is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys mountain biking, hiking, camping and wildlife photography. He enjoys spending his downtime with his daughter, Anna and their cat, Bella.

From the Editor

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elcome to September, Memphis! As you can see, I cannot hide my excitement. With the month of September comes autumn, my favorite of all the seasons. Some people may like it hot, but I like it cool. Scarves, chunky sweaters and falling leaves, these are some of my favorite things. Not to mention, all the great seasonal beers our favorite local breweries start creating during the colder months. This year Labor Day falls on the first of the month, giving us an appropriate moment to welcome the cooler months to come with a three-day weekend. September also means it is time for every Midtownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite event: the Cooper-Young Festival! Held this year on Saturday, September 13. I caught up with Tamara Cook, executive director of the Cooper Young Business Association, for our Signature Memphis feature on page 10 and discussed how this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festival promises to be bigger and better than any we have seen before. It will be a one stopshop for all your early holiday shopping as well as a time to revisit old friends and meet some new neighbors. This month, RSVP has tracked down some incredible locals who are using the revitalizing power of autumn to share their missions of health and happiness. On page 18 Jerome Hardaway is turning the historic Ashlar Hall into a veteran resource center. Holly Guthrie and Nevada Presley of Get Fresh Memphis are providing healthy and nutritional grab-n-go food for busy Memphians on page 20. I also met up with the world-famous songwriter David Porter to discuss his growing music mentorship program, The Consortium Memphis Music Town, as well as an exciting new fund-raiser the organization will be throwing this October (hint: it involves Stevie Wonder). Memphis is truly the place to be this fall.

Rachel Warren editor@rsvpmagazine.com

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Executive Director, Cooper Young Business Association

Hometown: Marion, Ark. Who Inspires You: My 82-year-old Mother. Who Would Play You in a Movie: Meg Ryan? Favorite Southern Idiom: “That dog won’t hunt!” Biggest Pet Peeve: Trash thrown on the ground. Place You Go to Think: My patio in the mornings. Favorite Song: “Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison. Best Advice You Ever Got: “It won’t always be like this.” Your Best Quality: Loyalty, and I have a great belly laugh. Best Gift You Ever Received: My oldest son cured of cancer. Favorite Place to Travel: Virgin Islands – St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, etc. Best Dish You Cook: Homemade Chicken and Dumplings (I don’t use biscuits!). One Goal You’d Still Like to Accomplish: I would love to be a news anchorwoman. Coolest Thing About Memphis: Elmwood Cemetery and the Memphis Zoo – I can spend hours and hours at these two places. Proudest Moment of Your Life: My youngest son, Will, took my face in his hands and said, “You are the bestest mom that has ever been.” Something You’ll Never Live Down: A Saturday night at my lake house in Greers Ferry, Ark. that involved eight of my crazy girlfriends and some black magic markers.

Photo by Steve Roberts

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Tamara Cook

EVENT

Wine and Dine

WINE AND DINE

Cheers to the Special Olympics of Greater Memphis

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Carmen A. Jones and Andrew Butler Jr.

JR Williss and Lisa Taylor

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uests at the fourth annual Wine and Dine event enjoyed sumptuous small plates and glasses of première wines while taking in one of the best views of the city. Benefiting the Special Olympics of Greater Memphis and presented by Kirby Wines and Liquors and Chef Chair Ryan Trimm of Sweet Grass/Southward Fare & Libations, Wine and Dine was held at the Tower Center of Clark Tower. With large windows surrounding the entire dining room and lounge, over 270 guests were able to enjoy a beautiful sunset as it sunk into the Memphis skyline. This wonderful event hosts the crème de la crème of local chefs whose creations are paired with a large selection of fine wines. As attendees arrived, they were greeted with a warm hello from the Special Olympics party hosts and given a glass of pink rosè champagne to accompany them on their ride up the elevator to the 33rd floor. Ed Finney, local jazz musician, set the relaxed yet, cool tone of the evening with several of his jazzy ensembles. Several food stations lined the dining room, offering select small plates from 12 different eateries and restaurants all over town. Tim Bednarski of Elwood’s Shack catered to the crowd’s Southern sensibilities with barbecued ribs along with pork and brisket sliders for good measure. Felicia Willett of Felicia Suzanne’s followed in the same vein of downhome cooking with her country gumbo and potato salad. Owen Brennan’s Restaurant impressed with their crawfish beignets paired with micro greens and a Siracha tartar sauce. Erling Jensen served up fresh and flavorful Blake Farm pork tenderloin with summer vegetables. Ryan Trim of Sweet Grass/Southward kept it simple and delicious with fresh oysters and caviar. Frost Bake Shop had the sweet portions of the night on lockdown, offering their famous carrot cake, strawberry cake and gooey butter cookies. Wine was aplenty thanks to Kirby Wine and Liquors, which provided 20 different types of wines to pair with the food. Guests tried Cupcake Prosecco, Sofia Sparkling, A to Z Pinot Gris, Decoy Sauvignon Blanc, Cline Cashmere and Tres Picos Garnacha, to name only a few of the evening’s select wines. An opportunity to take home a luxurious gift basket filled with items that valued in range from $600 to $3000 garnered a lot of attention. The purchase of a $25 ticket put guests in the running to win hot items such as the “Elegant Date Night Out on the Town” basket, which had gift certificates to Acre, Erling Jensen, Folk’s Folly and Sweet Grass alongside things like a box of Godiva chocolates, a bottle of Cupcake Prosecco and a one night stay at the Courtyard Marriott. Another basket, “Fore!,” was the most valuable and included rounds of golf for a group of four at Spring Creek, TPC Southwind and Ridgeway Country Club. Over $30,000 was raised for the Special Olympics of Greater Memphis.

See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Taylor Lichliter and Kristen Kines

Story by Rachel Warren Photos by Baxter Buck

Clare Anderson and Jeff Allen

Charlie and LaQuita Donelson

Erin Howle and Laura Swearingen

Jim Palmer and Ashley Griffin

Dalton Martinez, Angela Watson and Emily Martinez

Megan Carolan and Ian Johnson

EVENT WINE AND DINE

Valerie and Jeff Morris

Paul and Debbie Reid

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Ashley Fuchs and Candice Free

Michael and Ashley Boggs-Robilio

Danny and Cheryl Kingsley

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Harold and Felicitas Sloves

Rio Hannah and Wendy Hannah

Mike and Tonya Miller

Mandy Cox and Jordan Russell

Nicholas Rice and Sarah Wages

Forrest Clayborne and Missy Ricketts

EVENT WINE AND DINE

Nancy Taylor and Susie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell

Karen Vanelli and Shegufta Dismukes

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Lorie Pendergrass and Tracy Wartenberg

Samantha and Chris Dean

Jill Deleon and Erin Sublette

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Allen and Dale Hill

Buck Lawson and Lindsay Pate

Ray and Lakesha Adams

Phil and Terry Woodard

Sam Johnson and Olivia Fraser

Sandy and Gary Hudson

EVENT Jo Ann Biggers and Sherron Biggers

Julie Miller and Joanna Brown

Charlotte Patterson and Alan Moltz

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WINE AND DINE Anna Snickenberger and Shelby Edwards

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Angie and Mark Kingsley

Kristy McNabb and Michael Catlin

Karishma Ranchod and Kim Davis

Michael Leonard and Jeff Martinez

STREETSEEN

Jerome Hardaway Heroes Hall

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hen thinking of military veterans, many civilians have a tendency to picture an older gentleman, perhaps wearing his faded battle dress uniform. Leftover from the Vietnam War, this image of the older male veteran does not properly reflect the new generation of military veterans. Jerome Hardaway, U.S. Air Force veteran and founder and CEO of veteran nonprofit Frago, is in the midst of transplanting the organization to new territory where it will create a place for veterans and civilians to mingle and reverse stereotypes as well as a place that connects veterans to job resources and business opportunities. The name FRAGO, a military term meaning Fragmentary Order, reflects the organization’s mission to complement the already present veteran assistance in Memphis, but one that reaches out to new veterans before they struggle with civilian life. Hardaway, along with Alex Brown, Frago COO, and Adrian Friday, Frago CFO, wants the nonprofit to be that in-between assistance for these recent veterans, veterans who are 24-48 months out of their service. “We will also teach these new veterans how to successfully take their military skills and use them in a civilian setting. You know, you can’t do certain things you did in the military in the civilian sector as far as appropriate business attire and the way you communicate with your new work peers,” Hardaway says. The organization will be located in the historic Ashlar Hall, soon to be renamed “Heroes Hall,” and will offer local businesses the opportunity to set up shop on the first floor. The second floor will offer hard and soft job skills training for veterans focused on translating military skills into a civilian employment setting. After Hardaway and his team of volunteers complete their cleanup of the building that has suffered from blight after its short life as a nightclub, “The Castle,” Ashlar Hall will be a place for new veterans to adjust to civilian life. Hardaway is the opposite of that image of the older veteran. He is 28, and some of his interests include comic books, martial arts, computer programming and spending time with his wife and their child. Young, energetic and ready to take on a positive role within the civilian sector, Hardaway is the new picture of the American military veteran. Unfortunately, despite their youth and vigor, many recent veterans fall through the cracks as they attempt to cope with a common and invisible scar of war: combat stress. This, combined with adjusting to their new civilian lives as well as settling into a difficult job economy, has left many veteran men and women feeling lost, waiting to hit rock bottom and qualify for major assistance. He adds that when he first rejoined the civilian world, he had a hard time framing the several military achievements he had made into marketable job skills. Citing the time he negotiated a treaty in an Afghanistan village that allowed a team of female translators to speak to women in the village about their healthcare with zero fatalities as an example, Hardaway says that many times potential employers were not certain how to qualify those skills in terms of the civilian skills they were looking for in an employee. Frago will also offer “development boot camp” courses that will teach computer science skills. In addition to offering new veterans job skills, Frago is also releasing a smart phone app called V.E.T., Veterans Enriched Training. The app will be released this November and will include an electronic portfolio feature for veterans. Donations and support can be taken at their new website www.fragomemphis.org. Hardaway says Frago is also vetting board members and interested parties can contact the Frago website. A Veterans Suit-Up Day will be held September 11 at Ashlar Hall where people can donate their gently used professional attire. Hardaway states that Frago and its mission is not a parttime job, saying, “I tell my team this is not an idea. This is reenlisting. They do not leave here and leave the workday behind them. When they go out, anywhere, they wear the paint of the veterans everywhere. That is what pushes me to do this. All of us are veterans.” Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

STREETSEEN

Nevada Presley and Holly Guthrie Healthy To-Go!

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ver wished your only option on weeknights when you were too tired to hit the grocery store wasn’t a greasy burger and fries? Well, Get Fresh Memphis (GFM), a local to-go food business is offering Memphians delicious vegetarian and vegan foods as an option when cooking at home isn’t. The brains behind the operation is dynamic duo Nevada Presley and Holly Guthrie. “Our mission is to help people live healthy and eat a more plant-based diet. We think that that is really important,” says Presley. Operating since 2011 in the kitchen of First Congregation Church, GFM is helping Memphians “get fresh” one dish at a time. Presley, a certified natural food chef from Colorado, puts her vegetarian and vegan spin on southern classics. Guthrie, a Memphis native, is the marketing side of the operation and is a personal fitness trainer in the area. Guthrie said that when the pair met, they had both been preparing healthy meals for their clients, Guthrie as a personal trainer and Presley as a personal chef. Finally, it began to make sense to combine their efforts and go into business together to offer what many in the city were craving: fresh, easy meals that they could pick-up or have delivered. “It is hard to get refined, healthy food for busy people that have a hectic schedule. We thought, ‘If they had actual food prepared for them and ready to go, it would make it a lot easier for them.’ We could do something to help them eat healthy, a least for a larger part of the week,” Guthrie comments. With mouth-watering dishes like collard wraps, stuffed poppers, Indian bowls, spinach enchiladas and homemade black bean burgers, GFM is anything but dull, and it is especially not unrecognizable “froo-froo” vegetarian/vegan food. Presley and Guthrie create dishes with a down-home flair using savory flavors from vegetarian ingredients instead of using animal products. It is all in the meticulous eye of Presley who showcases the real flavor of the vegetable dishes she prepares. Presley says, “We also want our food to really be approachable. Sometimes vegan and vegetarian foods can get so precious and esoteric that you are left asking, ‘What is that?’ When really, just home-cooked, fresh food tastes really good. We use easy substitutes to bring depth to our dishes, the same way fatback adds depth to a lot of Southern vegetables.” Guthrie and Presley both agree that once many of their nonvegetarian customers try their foods they are impressed and soon appreciate the range of flavors from animal product-free dishes. The two also are also committed to making their service green and sustainable, and the majority of their ingredients are locally sourced (even growing some of their own produce in the First Congregation garden) and their containers are earthfriendly and sustainable. GFM has also recently been Project Green Fork certified. Nothing is wasted. Everything is recycled, and waste is composted. “We are like-minded in so many ways. They offer recycling for all of midtown,” Presley says, commenting on First Congregation’s shared mission of recycling. To get your fresh fix, go their website www.getfreshmemphis.com or send a message containing your order to getfreshmemphis@gmail.com. You can also join their email list to receive their always-changing lunch menu. Ordering takes place the Friday before and pick-up is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Congregation Church as well as their East Memphis pickup site at DCI located in Brookhaven Circle. GFM has partnered retailers like Cosmic Coconut, Delta Groove Yoga and Envision Memphis to offer their grab-n-go meals. GFM also delivers to offices and homes within the Midtown and Downtown area. As far as plans for the future, Guthrie says, “We hope to grow. We are a start-up business. We are looking into how to broaden our services and get our food to more people. We would ideally like to have our own storefront in the future.” With people hungry for healthy and ready-to-eat meals, there is no doubt GFM will continue to flourish. Story by Rachel Warren Photo by Steve Roberts

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EVENT

SportsBall

SPORTSBALL

Benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Memphis

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Chris May and Kim Davis

Joyce and Gordon Fykes

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Tom and Jen Oeschger

Ron Wong and Selina Chan

t was time to get your game on at the 17th annual SportsBall hosted by 92.9 ESPN’s Gary Parrish and Chris Vernon. The event, formerly known as the Black Tie & Tennis Shoe Gala, was held at Minglewood Hall. Michael Blair of Funtastic served as the evening’s emcee as approximately 700 guests wearing lace-up sneakers with their evening wear danced and played games while raising money to help children facing adversity. Proceeds benefitted the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Memphis (BBBS). “We believe that mentoring is not just about providing role models to our children, but it is also about strengthening the bonds that hold our community together – and we do it one match at a time,” said president and CEO of BBBS of Greater Memphis, Adrienne Bailey. “We know mentoring works because the children who are a part of our program consistently show improvement in school, growth in personal relationships and gain greater self-esteem.” The party was designed to bring out the kid in everyone. Guests enjoyed mock casino games ran by volunteers from Casears Entertainment as well as other interactive games and even jousting. Continuing with the not-so-typical gala atmosphere, guests mingled around tables showcasing silent auction items while munching on party fare, provided by Harrah’s, with sports-related names like Quarterback Chicken Sliders, Divot Dogs & Sausage, Deutschland Bites, Mulligan Steak Sliders, Barbecue Nachos and Fugazett (Argentine stuffed pizza bites). Platters of vegetable crudités along with imported and domestic cheeses were also available. The Draft Beer Potatoes (beer cheese sauce over garlic roasted potatoes and applewood bacon) proved to be a crowd favorite. Desserts included specialty cupcakes called Darryl’s Strawberry Torte, Pee Wee Reece’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake and Babe Ruth Cookies, which sported a center made from Baby Ruth candy bars. The Dipping Doughnuts station offered triangular doughnut puffs upon which guests plied on toppings of whipped cream, chocolate, caramel, strawberry and pineapple. The awards portion of the evening brought into focus the real reason for the event – BBBS’s mission to create a better future for Memphis-area youth by offering them one-on-one mentoring. Two individuals were recognized for personifying this: Melvin Cosey, big brother to Marcus Thompson, was the Big Brother of the Year, and Shameka Hampton, big sister to Zackell Malone, was the Big Sister of the Year. The Commercial Appeal was named as this year’s SportsBall Honoree for its role in supporting and encouraging community involvement and growth. Since it became a supporter six years ago, the newspaper has frequently sustained both fundraising and community awareness efforts. “I’ve been a Big Brother for 15 years, serving in four different states,” said George H. Cogswell III, publisher of The Commercial Appeal, who also serves on the BBBS board of directors. “There are so many young boys and girls facing adversity who need mentors. I encourage everyone to consider helping our youth by serving as a mentor. It is a way that you can truly impact lives and improve the future of our community.” See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Baxter Buck

Davis Dodson and Allie Martin with Alissa and Riley Fowler

Kristen Bell and Joe Bell

Michelle and Randy Songstad

Kelly and Gary Parrish

Nikki Gibbs and Belinda Simpson

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EVENT SPORTSBALL

Claudia and George Cogswell

Sharon and Dan Pallme

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Cynthia Thompson and Rachel Jackson

Raymond Limas and Mallory Lay

Mason Massey and Lindsey Allison

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Jasmine Eggleston and Pendora Sumlar

Chris Fox and Ricky Hicks

Davis and Jennifer Gordon

Trisha Thompson and Layna Boyd

Rob and Adrena Cornelius

Laura Hine and Dr. Phillip Northcross

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EVENT SPORTSBALL

Amy and Elliot Hughes

Joe Lackie and Laura Hoffman

Mark and Cynthia Godby

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Dorothy Sisnett and Kia Robinson

Brittany Alexander and J. Pallme

Sam Johnson and Olivia Fraser

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Rod and Kristy Marter

Jeff Hartman, Thelia Campbell, Jasmine Sutton and Tom Simpson

Tameka and Haki Muhammad

Deborah Myatt and Dominique Myatt

Joanna Brown, Lisa Taylor and Julie Miller

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THE AMBASSADOR SERIES

The Ambassador Series By Eugene Pidgeon

A CLAIRE VISION

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published poet and an essayist. She has also authored three novels. Her first novel “A Portal in Time,” published in November 2013 by Vinspire Publishing is a feisty, paranormal period piece she developed from an experience she had when she and her husband were visiting an inn with an eerily romantic history in Carmel. The reviews have been favorable. Fullerton’s second novel “Dancing to an Irish Reel,” also published by Vinspire, is set for release in early 2015. It is a fictional chronicle of her experience in

Photo by William Feil

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hat makes a good writer? Good writers love words and can loop and array these words in marvelous and often captivating reams. Good writers can take words and make toasts, caption greeting cards, christen ships and newborn babies. Good writers are fun to read. They are often quoted and are very clever. Now what makes a great writer? Great writers love words too, and they can deftly contort them in ways far and above the manner by which they were originally conceived. Yet that which may, ultimately, separate a good writer from a great one is in how a great writer will also understand words. This understanding is not so much linked to the definition of words as it is to the impact of words. It is only when a writer can fully reconcile the impact of words that he or she can be free enough to test the boundaries of language and then exceed them. Great writers are not necessarily clever. They don’t need to be. A great writer bares his work with no gimmick. There is no “schtick.” More often than not, any writer without a gimmick is the one who will be remembered. Former Memphian Claire Fullerton is a good writer. She may very well be on her way to becoming a great one. It is a little too early to call the race. However, there are certainly indications of greatness in her work. Fullerton now resides in California, where she divides her time between a comfortable Malibu office/residence and a little cottage up the coast by the water in Carmel. She shares her life with her husband and a few canine companions. Possessing a splendid command of language, Fullerton’s writing environment is not limited to a single style, cadence or format. Her voice is powerful and it is sweetly versatile. The way she employs and commits her voice is in no way superficial. In fact, it is quite deft and affecting. With such an authentic voice, there is no need for her to draft or channel the Deus Ex Machina – perhaps the most exploited of all literary fallbacks in the broad and consummate history of the written word. Fullerton definitely has a richly diverse writing career percolating. She is a

Galway on the west coast of Ireland where she lived for quite some time. Currently, Fullerton is in the process of composing her third novel. This one will surely resonate with the hometown crowd. “It is a Southern family saga that actually takes place in Memphis,” Fullerton reveals. “I was always going to write this one, and it is happening now.” Fullerton may also hold another card, which will aid in her trajectory. More than anything else and whether good or great, she is proudly and indelibly, a Southern writer. What does this mean? Fullerton is quick to explain. “A Southern writer is a writer who is sensitive enough to pick up on the soul and the nuances of what it means to be a product of the South.” Further, she asserts, “being from the South becomes a perpetual frame of reference for the rest of your life.” As a writer and as a Southern writer, Fullerton is quite effusive in her praise of other Southern writers who have either directly or indirectly influenced her. However, the one significant influence she has adhered to resolutely and without apology is her own intuition. She emphatically

states, “For me and unabashedly, it was about writing from the core of who I am. By that I mean…by the way that I talk. The way that I talk is a direct result of having grown up in Memphis and the South. There is a certain cadence, certain word usage.” With a natural and almost elegant deference Fullerton beams, “Southerners tend to be very colorful and beautiful linguists.” Her ability to personally metabolize the language of the South has become a wonderful tool to sharpen her own writing voice. Fullerton can also boast to having a keen ear as well. From this ear she has responded to the uniquely ambient works of other prominent writers whose writing is an authentic reflection of the southern experience. One of her favorite authors is Pat Conroy, the arbiter of such stalwart southern masterpieces as “The Great Santini” and “The Prince of Tides.” “I worship at the altar of Pat Conroy,” confesses Fullerton. “Yet for as much as I love him and others, he was not necessarily the reason I wanted to write. What made me want to become a writer was when I had the realization I was already writing. I was already keeping a journal. I was already observing the world.” Her contention is that she already possessed the implements necessary to becoming a writer without ever really being conscious or aware that she was cultivating a “writing” career. Another indication of Claire Fullerton’s ascension to becoming a great writer is how she knew her writing would never be about a singular or culminating effort. “Being a writer was never going to be about one book for me,” she asserts purely. “It has always been about a long range career path. When I’m in my seventies, I hope I am still on this same path!” Perhaps another important tool possessed by a great writer is an unrelenting hunger for the story and for the connection. If this is true, Claire Fullerton is bound for glory. She has an insatiable, interrogative vigor, and, by all accounts, her muse is ravenous.

To make a suggestion or pitch a story idea to Eugene, feel free to e-mail him at eugenepidgeon@rsvpmagazine.com.

VOX POPULAR

Vox Popular Q&A with David Porter

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RSVP: What are the details of the merger between The Consortium Memphis Music Town and the Memphis Music Foundation?

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Porter: The importance of this program and, of course, the concept of this program is in The Consortium’s role in the program. The merger is a piece of it. But the importance of this is the overall benefit of the community, of a music industry. The merger is a part that this, but the overall importance is the mission to get a music industry back in Memphis. The goal of the merger is simply to bring additional complements to all of the other music genres that are apart of the Memphis community. Meaning that, we will supply significant supplements to those various aspects in the music community. The ultimate goal is for us to have a thriving industry in this community. We want to come through this merger with efforts that can have purposeful additions to those who are serious about these other areas like gospel, rock, etc. The merger aspect of the program deals with the other genres in addition to the Soul music of The Consortium MMT’s mission and goal. There are many varied disciplines in music, other than Soul music, and people find all kinds of things that they are passionate about. Those are the kind of talents in the community that historically have gone to the MMF for support. Our goal is to find out all the things that were worked in that scenario with the MMF. We will be taking charge of the MMF’s former Memphis Resource Center. The Memphis Resource Center was focused on those music areas that may not be considered “mainstream” and was not necessarily Soul music. It is an intricate and important part of what makes a music community a thriving community in that it adds value to every aspect of a community. We want to be the vehicle that assists and enhances whatever those areas are. That is the goal of the Memphis Music Resource Center. RSVP: What is the Memphis Music Resource Center? Porter: In terms of the merger, the MMF will cease to exist. There was a component in the MMF structure, which was titled the Memphis Music Resource Center. That part of the MMF will become a part of The Consortium MMT. We view that as a value to the music community overall. We were approached to take that component of that project and incorporate it into our program as an addition. We are taking the Resource Center, combining it with what we are doing now and looking for ways to add value to what was already in The Consortium and make it even more impactful to the overall community. This adds another element to The Consortium and adds an open door for all the other musical genres to come to The Consortium for any information or resources they may need. We have created a structure for the Consortium, and we know that we are getting results. We want to do the same thing for the Resource Center. Having said that, there were some individuals who worked in that setting and were more knowledgeable about what the Resource Center catered to, and we are going to bring them aboard. We want to let these knowledgeable individuals share with us all of their information that shows the

good workings of what that was. Whatever was working in the Memphis Music Resource Center, we want to take advantage of that. RSVP: Will there be any physical moving of office locations?

Photos by Don Perry

SVP editor, Rachel Warren sits down with Stax Records legend, American record producer, Hall of Fame songwriter and president and founder of The Consortium Memphis Music Town (MMT), David Porter at the Greater Memphis Chamber to discuss the organization’s recent merger with the Memphis Music Foundation. Porter describes how The Consortium is bringing major music industry attention to Memphis and announces The Consortium’s October 11 fund-raiser, The Epitome of Soul Award Honoring Stevie Wonder A Soulright Evening.

Porter: The Consortium is located in The Greater Memphis Chamber. We will have another location that we will be using by the end of the year. The new location will house the Talent Development Center, which is the official title. In the Talent Development Center will be the Memphis Music Resource Center in one part of the building. The other part will be the Consortium’s Emerging Stars Network, which is a program with talents that would have already gone through The Consortium MMT six-week program. These Emerging Stars will have a place in an area and further develop their musical skills. That will be the component that creates a focus point for record companies, music publishing, production companies so that they can come to Memphis and there is a source for them to have vetted talent. These music industry figures will not have to wonder where the talent is in Memphis. They are located under one roof. While that is going on, the Resource Center will open the door for talent in other areas. From there, we want those talents to get to the level of the Emerging Stars program. RSVP: What is The Consortium MMT’s mission? Porter: There has always been a great deal of support for the music industry in Memphis that were funded by the city and the county as organizations that were created by philanthropists, citizens that wanted to give to the arts, and certainly to the music industry. That has been appreciated, and I think not enough is said about those who have really been supportive of the music industry through the years. What, in my view, was not being done, as well as it could have been done, was that at the end of the day when the support was put there and when things were given to these organizations, where were the results? Where were the meaningful types of circumstances that said, “Wow, this is working.” So The Consortium idea was born out of that. I wanted to see some meaningful results for those that support the music industry. It meant something for you to give your support to it. The Consortium and its programs are about getting that result and creating a music industry presence. That is the value of what we are doing with The Consortium program that through the structured processes of giving talents an idea about successful producers, songwriters and recording artists. Our talents are learning from people that have sold two or three billion records. I don’t mean making records. Billions sold. We have Earth Wind & Fire and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. We have had Valerie Simpson. We have had so much incredible talent at The Consortium, giving their expertise to

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RSVP: What are the results that The Consortium MMT is providing for new talent?

Porter: I am talking about record deals, publishing companies, production companies and record labels. I am talking about all of it coming out of Memphis. It is possible. I am talking about that, but I am also talking about not talking about it. I am talk32 ing about doing it. But, you do it with an elevated quality of your talent pool. We are tremendously excited by the results. We are going to have a Talent Development Center where we are going to vet our talent. So when we start showing talent through this program. So when we say they are “Emerging Stars” you are going to know. We have a young songwriter, and we have two or three companies that would like to do something with her right now. Her name is Sheridan Taylor and her co-writing and producing partner is Keenan Smith. We went to New York a couple of weeks ago with their material to meet with Alicia Keys’ producer. They were totally blown away by Taylor and Smith, and there will be lots of opportunities forthcoming for them. Tim “Coldway Pro” Moore also came through our program, and he is a songwriter, producer and artist. He has recently been in a Spike Lee movie that is coming out, and he has a song in that movie. We have LaShonte “Princess of Pop” Anderson who has been on tour for three months in China, and she is getting ready to go to Korea. When she gets back to the States, we will record her. Those are just three examples of the up and coming talent coming from The Consortium program. When you create a place where people can go and meet the talents who have been vetted it creates opportunities to collaborate and get better. That is what we did at Stax Records. At Stax, you know, I would go into a room where Eddie Floyd would be singing the song “Knock on Wood.” I was singing in the background on “Knock on Wood.” William Bell and I are singing in the background. Take for instance, “Soul Finger,” I created the crowd and directed the kids. It was Isaac Hayes that came up with the title of “Soul Finger.” My point is, when you create an environment of collaboration, and people of like talent are in the same space as each other, there is a giving. It magnifies the incredibility of what they have. That is what the Emerging Stars program does. I know that because I lived it. Now we have created a place that does that. No one is more proud of their history than me. I have had unbelievable success. I am very, very proud of that. I know that life does not begin and end with me. So if you are able to take someone else and give them some insight then they are the next David Porter, the next Isaac Hayes, the next Al Green and the next Elvis Presley. Just creating a vehicle that does that…that is a greater legacy RSVP

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those in our program. You get some information from those who have sold millions and millions of records. Many are like me. There are only around 300 plus people who have been inducted as songwriters into the Hall of Fame in this country. We have four of those people who are part The Consortium right now. When people first heard about this they suggested moving the program to Nashville. I said no, we have to do this in Memphis. The Consortium’s focus is Soul music. The reason that The Consortium focuses on Soul is because in the early 1970s the third largest employer in city of Memphis was the music industry. The brand value of Soul music is revered and respected today all over the world. So it made all the sense in the world for us to embrace what already gives it the brand value that others aspire for. So that when folks like me and others who were part of that trailblazing music are gone, the younger folks have it. Before the year is out, we will have a major record company based in Memphis with national distribution. We are already having conversations about that. The support we have gotten from all different areas has been wonderful. So many people, beautiful people, in our community are supporting this. Amazingly, Southeastern Asset Management came up to the plate with unbelievable support. The talent that goes through our program that is focused on Soul music, and they understand that there is a little bit of a difference in Soul music in the sixties and Soul music today. You have to understand that we are not trying to rewrite Soul. We are trying to get you to be soulful and understand that there is value to embrace what Soul music was but still finding your individuality in Soul and finding out what Soul music means today. What we have done is create a process in a program that gives talented young people the motivation to push themselves to higher limits. Those are the results that open up doors of opportunity for young talent.

VOX POPULAR than any record I have had. In The Consortium program, we have created books and a structured program where students are receiving relevant information with learning outcomes as well as moments where these celebrities interject how that point played out in their music industry career. The Consortium is not like a school. It is more powerful.

RSVP: Why is Memphis the best place for new musical talent? Porter: You know, that is the universal question. Why Memphis? I think Memphis touches so many varied influences and concepts. So many American influence seem have cumulated in Memphis, and it has created a uniqueness that you can’t find anywhere else. You can’t put a label on what makes it unique. You just know that there is something about Memphis. For Memphis, it is the appreciation and the respect for the power of rhythm. Rhythm is what Memphis thrives on. What Soul music did was find a personality out of that rhythm. We are conscience of that personality. We have, in the city, some extremely talented individuals. I have them onboard at The Consortium. I believe the lifeblood of any startup lives in the future of these young individuals. I have some talents that have been extremely beneficial for the program like George Monger III, Consortium vice president and executive director, Claire Kolheim, Sheridan Taylor and Milan Roby. Even with the gifts I have been given, it would not happen without these young talents. It doesn’t happen with just one person. It takes quality. The quality of people happens with younger people. I am passionate about this having a future effect, and it can’t happen without young people. RSVP: Are there any upcoming events we can look at out for from The Consortium MMT? Porter: On October 11 The Consortium MMT Presents: The Epitome of Soul Award Honoring Stevie Wonder A Soulright Evening at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts at 8 p.m. This historic event will be a fund-raiser for The Consortium as well as a launching pad for the music industry in Memphis. The event is the first of its kind and promises to catch the attention of the national music industry for years to come.

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Porter: Without a program like The Consortium, everyone who imagines that they have talent can put it online and in all kinds of other vehicles. Their creation will be in the same large pool with good, marginal and bad creations. The world is flooded with aspiring music talent online. The only way that there is a legitimate opportunity to be sure you have a legitimate chance is when your talent has been elevated to a certain extent that makes you competitive with the best. Also, if you are getting insight from some of the best music industry figures then you are able to incorporate that insight with you, and now you have the chance to be better than the norm that is out there. You have been elevated in a world where everybody has the chance to be seen. Without this you are in a big pool with everyone else. With this you are in a big pool with everybody else, but you are wearing a shiny suit.

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RSVP: What are some of the challenges aspiring musicians face today without a program like The Consortium MMT to help them navigate the music industry?

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Blues on the Bluff

BLUES ON THE BLUFF ®

“Summer’s Best Party”

O Josh Throndson and Leah Singh

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Janine and Ron Scott

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n a clear, beautiful, unseasonably cool July evening overlooking the Mississippi River at a location that Mark Twain once called the best view between Cairo, Ill. and New Orleans, guests converged for a night to remember. It’s hard to imagine that anyone would have the blues that night, however, not only did the nearly 800 people that showed up get the blues – they couldn’t have been happier. Combining the blues, barbecue and the river, the 26th annual Blues on the Bluff®, held at the National Ornamental Metal Museum, offered guests a chance to enjoy an authentic Memphis experience while raising money for the city’s only independent, volunteer radio station, WEVL FM 89.9. “We like to call it the summer’s best party, and it was made even better with temperatures in the seventies,” station director, Judy Dorsey, said. “We could not have ordered better weather for WEVL’s flagship event.” This year’s lineup consisted of The Gerry Burnside Band, whose front man is the son of the influential blues artist, R.L. Burnside; soul revival band, The Bo-Keys, comprised of quintessential delta bluesman a certifiable “who’s who” of Stax-era musicians; and quintessential bluesman, Blind Mississippi Morris, who is the cousin of the late Willie Dixon. The doors opened at 6 p.m. as guests arrived early to set up their blankets and lawn chairs before the festivities began. Central BBQ, the event’s official food sponsor, provided barbecue pork sandwiches and nachos, rib plates and watermelon slices, while beer sponsor, Schlafly, allocated the adult beverages. All of the profits from food sales were also donated to the listener-supported radio station. A lavish silent auction with items donated by a wide array of sponsors was set up near the entrance. Tickets to Memphis Tiger football games, Cooper-Young Regional Brewfest, Minglewood Hall and King Biscuit Blues Festival; entertainment packages for the Peabody Hotel, Cooper-Young and East Memphis; a smorgasbord of folk art and jewelry by local artisans; and even two private shows by local singers, Joyce Cobb and Nancy Apple, were just a few of the many items up for bid. Founded in 1976, WEVL’s mission is “to entertain and inform its audience through diverse music programming with an emphasis on the culture of Memphis and the South.” WEVL is not owned by any governmental, educational or commercial entity, and funding is listener generated. Additionally, with only three paid staff positions, its workforce, both on and off the air, is primarily volunteer driven.

Lauren, Fort and Jay Robinson

Jonathan McCarver and Linley Schmidt

Story and Photos by Patrick Lantrip See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP Sally and Clayton Holmes

Richard Chotard and Judy Dorsey

Jim Mertzlufft and Carol McCrudden

Justin and Lisa Abart with Andrew Holmes

Tarika Boswell and Shannon McNally

EVENT BLUES ON THE BLUFF 速

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Dennis and Norma Johnson

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Mike Dennie and Hunter Oppenheimer

Collins, Isabelle and Renee Dillard RSVP

Chase Cobb and Elisabeth Benson

Charlie Smithers and Kim Leonard

Paola Palazzolo, Bill Pope, Sharron Key and Marty Bond

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Joe Restivo, Howard Grimes and Percy Wiggins

Danielle Rassoul, Meredith Taylor and Ryan Murray

Johanna and Pete Pranica

Pete Kowalski and Anita Shrew

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Melanie Cox and Steve Auterman

Becky Todd and Emily Todd

Trenton Ayers, Melody Cummings, Kyle Bors-Koefoed and Blind Mississippi Morris

Carmine Cox and Michelle Glass

Kristen Dickerson, Brad Dickerson and Meghan O’Brien

EVENT Olivia Suryo and Brett Rehberg

Tina and John Leoncavallo

Jana Leoncavallo and Joseph Qualls

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BLUES ON THE BLUFF 速 Bart and Teri Hammers

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Dr. Terri Alford, Lisa Taylor and Olga King

Jay and Phyllis Leoncavallo

Marcus Boyd and Leslie Matlock

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Keith Knowles, Lisa Burnett, Stephanie Lawson and Mike Smith

Parker Holland, Beth Gentleman and Jimmy Lacy

Bruce and Barbara Newman

Aaron and Pearline Slayden

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David True and Donna Bowles

Bill Moyt, Jody Moyt, Morgan Moyt-Grow and Louise Moyt

Lashunda Wiggins and Mary Wiggins

Ethan and Emily Ashby

Candice Lermusiaux, Candice Briggie and Lindsay Briggie-Johnston

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Pam Schmidt, Janice Negri and Sara Negri-Whitmer

Heidi Ho, Jeanne Gray-Carr and Tara Taylor

Mark and LaNita LaFon

Paula and Scott Froboese

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Maggie Carlson and David Mitchell

Nevada Presley, Hailey Thomas and Mary Linder

Lisa and David Harris

Mike and Cookie Swain

Jonathan Jackson, Anna Howell, Elizabeth Tarsi and Rae-Ann Pitts

EVENT Therese Davis and Bob Pegram

Claire Bergman and Michael Joyner

Haylie Geske and Grady Light

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BLUES ON THE BLUFF 速 Elizabeth Shaffer and Bob Reiss

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Sarah and Herschel Freeman and Lily Rutledge

Chris and Rebecca Luter

Rick and Carla Masson

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Children’s Museum of Memphis Girls’ Night Out

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The evening was filled with glitz and glamour for the younger set as the Children’s Museum of Memphis (CMOM) held its second annual Girls’ Night Out event. Personal pampering activities included manicures and airbrushed tattoos. Glamour photos were available to capture the primped-up results. The Emma Webb band offered musical inspiration with songs by Taylor Swift, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood and others. Sewing into Dreams kicked off the event with a fashion show of original designs by young ladies aspiring to become fashion designers. Modeling both their own designs as well as those of some of the other girls, the designers took to the catwalk to showcase their talent. For entertainment, guests had their choice of movie watching or learning the latest line dances. Caza Teatro presented an original skit titled “The Case of a Missing Love.” Guests enjoyed a variety of other activities including crafts like designing tie-dye t-shirts and sewing their own totes with Mrs. Sew & Sew. “The entire night came about from an idea to give girls an outlet to express themselves in a creative way. Being Mother’s Day weekend made a perfect opportunity for girls and their mothers to build memories together,” said Felicia Peat, director of education and programs for CMOM.

Cookies for a Cause The Girl Scouts Heart of the South (GSHS) Council held their fourth annual Cookies for a Cause event at the East Memphis home of Mary Katherine and Elmer Stout. Guests enjoyed a buffet of ham and biscuits, chilled shrimp and a multitude of sweet treats made by area restaurants. Each dessert incorporated one of the organization’s famous cookies. Southward Fare & Libations made Samoa Trifles, and Ciao Bella used Savannah Smiles and Dulce de Leche layered with marscapone custard caramel sauce and vanilla whipped cream to make Girl Scout Trifles. Amerigo Restaurant used Samoas to make fudge brownies. Local cookbook author Jennifer Chandler contributed Do-Si-Do peanut butter truffles. Seasons 52, Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous and Laura Lee’s Lunchables donated appetizers. GSHS CEO Melanie Schild greeted the crowd and shared some of the organization’s plans for the future, including the development of a Teen Leadership Memphis program. Missy Rainer, alumnae and fund development manager reminded attendees that the organization’s main fund-raiser is the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

“Hairspray” Preview Party Benefit for Spirit of SRVS The Preview Party for the Spirit of SRVS event took place at Playhouse on the Square with a benefit performance of “Hairspray.” Approximately 250 people turned out to support the fund-raiser. Honorary event chairmen were Paula and Steve Sansom. Event chairmen were Frances Metheny and Harvey Middleton. Attendees enjoyed appetizers of beef tenderloin sliders and chicken kabobs along with bruschetta and tiramisu for dessert, all provided by Automatic Slims restaurant. In addition to the performance, SRVS unveiled this year’s commemorative art-work, an acrylic titled “Brother’s Keeper” by guest artist Edwin McSwine. A Memphis native, McSwine has work hanging at the National Civil Rights Museum as well as in the private collection of Oprah Winfrey. He is an early member of the National Institute of Arts Artist Collective and has completed public art works for the Urban Arts Commission and the South Main Arts District. His sister, Tonda, attends SRVS Learning Center. Proceeds from the “Hairspray” benefited SRVS’ individuals and organizational programming. SRVS provides assistance to more than 860 individuals with disabilities. Services range from housing, employment and clinical services to elder care, family support and skills development at the SRVS Learning Center.

Delta Symposium Reception The Crump House was the location for a reception commencing the 2014 Delta Symposium. The soirée gave esteemed guests an opportunity to mingle with this year’s symposiasts the day before the conference. The ninth annual symposium aimed to celebrate the “history, culture and life of the Delta region” while raising money for the University of Memphis Libraries. This year’s event was titled: “Two Sides of the River,” and was hosted by Willy Bearden, local writer and filmmaker. “The Southeast is the best place for archeology,” panelist Sam Brookes told guests as he socialized at the lavish former home of turn-of-the-century politician E.H. “Boss” Crump. Story and Photos by Patrick Lantrip

Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger

Missy Rainer, Peggy Butze and Venus Chaney Shira Lee, Edwin McSwine and Mattie McSwine

Hickman Ewing and John Shepard with Dr. Nick and Pamela Gotten

Monica Sanches and Christy Sanders

Emily Peachey, Savannah Banks, Kristin Peachey, Katie Peachey and Jessica Banks

Anna Jones

Cindy Ware

Susan Thomas, Sophia Bollinger, Mary Katherine Stout and Meghan Barksdale

Carter Beard, Diana Fedinec and Terry Reeves

Sam and Marilyn Brookes

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EVENT PHOENIX CLUB SUMMER PARTY

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Phoenix Club Summer Party Party in the Square

Kevin Alexander and Mary Alice Ruleman

Gary Leach and Amy Hudson

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ith the dog days well under way, the Phoenix Club of Memphis hosted its aptly named Summer Party, benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis (BGCGM), at the Overton Square Courtyard. Tickets were $20 in advance or $30 at the door, but offered access to a buffet of libations and entertainment by local favorites, The Soul Shockers, who played everything from Bill Withers and Frank Sinatra to Pharrell and Usher. A wristband ensured a free-flowing supply of Budweiser and Bud Light, or one of the Phoenix Club’s homemade concoctions like the Transfusion, Memphis Margarita, Lynchburg Lemonade or Electric Lemonade. There was even an ice luge engraved with the Phoenix Club’s logo for shots. For a little extra, VIP wristbands that granted access to the second and third story balconies were available. The backroom of Delta Groove Yoga was converted into a VIP room complete with a full bar and buffet spread that included guacamole from Babalu’s, pizza from Memphis Pizza Café and imported meats and pickled mushrooms from Bari Ristorante. For more than 50 years the Phoenix Club has nurtured a close-knit relationship with the BGCGM. In fact, the two organizations have been inseparably intertwined since the Phoenix Club helped established a local Boys and Girls Club chapter in 1958. While the party aspect may have become synonymous with the Phoenix Club, the philanthropic nature of the organization remains the driving force behind its social events. “Our sole purpose is to raise money for the BGCGM,” Zac McRae said. “We don’t exist without them.” McRae, a former club president and brother of the current president, Jake, said the coalition between the two organizations provides underprivileged youth with access to resources and interactions that they may not receive elsewhere. Camp Phoenix, on the shores of Sardis Lake in Mississippi, is one such unique resource. Camp Phoenix offers 800 inner-city kids the opportunity to make friends, learn skills and gain new perspectives away from the pressures of their neighborhoods. Founded in 1906 as The Federated Boys Clubs in Boston and now known as The Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the organization has grown to encompass more than 1,140 independent organizations that operate out of 4,074 chartered facilities and provide support for over 4 million children annually. A generous, yet anonymous benefactor matched all proceeds generated from the Summer Party.

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Scott Briggs and Shannon Little

Story by Patrick Lantrip Photos by Don Perry

Whit Cooper and Taylor Easton

Amanda Smith and Natalie Szulyk

Heather Wallace and Clark Schifani

Do Nguyen and Mary Hoang

Marcus Walker, Amelia Brown and Larry Hill

Devon Neely and Kareem Staples

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PHOENIX CLUB SUMMER PARTY

Mark McCleskey, Jessie Milam and Jon Roser

Arlena Davis, Shelley Madison and Alice Sartin RSVP

Haley Bastien and Zach Sain

Johnny Dillon, Kelsea Johns and Megan Marchant

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Matt and Rachel Young

William Lucas and Kristin Moss

Amanda Gootzeit and Faith Ruch

Monica Lott and Patrick Bounds

Katie Frett and Jess Blackmon

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Sarah Vogelfanger and Bowe Travis

Hayes Leslie and Kallan Klinger

Ashley and Corey McCullough

Jeanne Billings and Marla Pennington

Brittney Harper and Trey Brooks

Jane Sayle and Stewart Taylor

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PHOENIX CLUB SUMMER PARTY

Marina Brinkley, Barbara Weir and Jill McKnatt

Sam and Lesley Marks with Pam and Jack Wohrman RSVP

Lori Shelton, Kate Morisse, Lauren Ware, Emily Young and Caitlin Shelton

Stewart Warner, Sara Blayne Dupuy and Spencer Mobbs

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David Ridenhour, Tony Barone Jr., Graham Askew and Marcus Grandberry

Katherine Wright, Annie Kutsikovich, Constance Conley and Vesna Milojevic

Emily and Jay Hazen

Ross McCraw and Andy Welch

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John Steinert and Lindsay Peluso

Ali Jennings and Sarah Weir

Stephen Wieck, Whitney Barton, Jay Martin, Ellen Dennis and Brad Reedy

Lauren Taylor and Gentry Martin

Meghan Stuthard, John Martin and Samantha Konstantin

EVENT Ashley Jolly and Lauren Bowie

Angel Walker and Anthony Mervine

PHOENIX CLUB SUMMER PARTY

Trey Herlein, Sarah Briley and Chad Blackburn

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Laura Pope, Matt Rasberry, Allison Hart and Kathleen Barry

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Judy Cole and Woody McRae

Princess Taylor and Sharon Howard

Austin Easley, Jenny Smith, Michael Waters and Jessica Rifanburg

Robin Hoskins and Justin Reynoso

Paige Juchheim, Samantha Rivera, Sarah Katherine Faucheux and Alfred Cowles

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Boll Weevil Party

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The Boll Weevil’s annual bash honoring Carnival Memphis’ royalty held at the Warehouse in downtown Memphis is always a blast and this year was no exception. Masked members of the Secret Order of Boll Weevils, known as the Merry Mischief Making Men of Carnival, circulated through the crowd, plastering ladies with their signature yellow stickers. The Super T band had the whole place rockin’ and music spilled out onto the porch where guests occasionally reposed for a breath of fresh air. Bob Wilder was recognized for his contribution to the group and Carnival Memphis Executive Director Ed Galfsky was made an honorary member. The king and queen of Carnival, John McCullough and Suzette Coors, addressed the crowd and encouraged merriment. In the celebratory spirit, some ladies took the message to heart and joined the band onstage to dance. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Pop Andrews Golf Classic Reception

Symphony League Officer Installation

River Oaks Garden Club Spring Luncheon

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) held a reception for its 27th annual Pop Andrews Golf Tournament at the lovely Germantown home of Dr. George and Barbara Bouldien. Named after Nancy Bramlett’s father, Pop Andrews, the tournament began the following day. Golf pro Larry Mize, a TPC Champion and former winner of the Masters Tournament, was on hand and joined other guests who enjoyed a light buffet of sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips and brownies. FCA ministers to middle, high school and college students in 60 schools locally. Larry Coley, area director of FCA for Memphis and Shelby County, says because athletes and coaches are role models, sports opens the door for them to carry the message of Christ without waiting for them to go to church. Funds raised by the tournament benefit FCA and the John Bramlett Ministries.

The ballroom at the University Club was packed with ladies dressed in the latest spring fashions at the Memphis Symphony League’s officer installation luncheon, “Joy-Full in May.” Prior to lunch service, the room was filled with the noise of happy banter among the group, many of whom were obviously old friends and long-time supporters of the symphony. Each table had an arrangement that included lilies and African violets, later offered for a donation. When the program began, the room filled with a different sound as Allison Kerr and Peyton Cook played their violins. The two young ladies are students of Joy Brown Weiner, concertmaster emeritus for the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Weiner, who has toured throughout Europe, was presented with the Amphion Award, created in 1983 to honor an individual for outstanding international contribution and service to the arts. During the luncheon, Lura Turner, League president, announced the 2014-2015 officers and named Kathy King as president.

Flowers were in bloom inside and outside Memphis County Club when the River Oaks Garden Club met for its annual Spring Luncheon. The passing of the gavel from outgoing president Susan Plough to incoming president, Mary Jan Hamlet, was the focus of the luncheon along with the slate of 2014-2015 officers. Many past presidents were on hand, including Paula Buttross, Betty Green, Janice Akins, Cathy Weil and J.J. Krauch. Lida Kruchten, daughter of member Jennifer Kruchten, was also honored. Lida represented the club as a princess in the court of Carnival Memphis.

Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson

Hilda Mullen and Betty Green

Dee Stephens, "Shrek" and Michelle Kornberger Barbara and Dr. George Bouldien Lura Turner and Billie Jean Graham

Jennifer Kruchten, Lida Kruchten and Susan Madden Ray and Betha Gill

Vicki, John and Jenn McCullough

Nancy and John Bramlett and Larry Mize with Stacy and Andy Bramlett

Clark McGee, Kathy King and Jane Mims

Larry and Pam Coley with Debbie and Tony Maddox

Roland Valliere and Honey Scheidt

Gwen Montague and Manju Gupta

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Shaun Micheel Make-A-Wish® Golf Pairings Party

The theme was big hair, and the aim was to make a big impact. Both were achieved at the first ever Raising Hair fund-raiser held at the Memphis Central Station downtown. Area salons and local community members came together and raised more than $20,000 for the Memphis Child Advocacy Center (CAC). The event included a big hair contest, a fashion show, a live and silent auction, live music, drinks and food trucks. Each of the 10 participating Mid-South salons presented a model in an effort to see who could achieve the biggest hair, with themes ranging from sci-fi to beauty pageant queens. Attendees “oohed” and “aahed” at the artistic hair presented during the fashion show. A silent auction of more than 100 stylingthemed items brought in more dollars, including a selection of “Big Hair Bears” – Teddy bears dressed up in the latest fashions with plenty of big hair of their own. The group famous for their big dos, The Bouffants and Loveland Duren were the musical entertainment for the night. “It’s a very unique event. It’s really neat and such a good idea – really fun and fabulous and creative,” communications coordinator for the Memphis CAC Beryl Wight said.

What better way to gear up for a day of putting and driving on the greens than a meal of barbecue and beer? At least that’s the way they do it in the Bluff City, especially when it’s for a good cause. To kickoff the 11th annual Shaun Micheel Make-A-Wish® Golf Classic, Make-A-Wish® Mid-South threw a Pairings Party the night before. Event committee member and former chair Nick Vergos offered his world famous barbecue establishment, Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous, as the night’s venue along with all the fixings. Sausage and cheese plates got things started, followed by ribs and sides and an open bar was there for the taking. Golf enthusiasts, community members, local businesses, family and friends mingled and welcomed the opportunity to shake hands with the tournament sponsor and namesake Shaun Micheel, the winner of the 2003 PGA Championship and native Memphian. The evening never veered off track as Wish Kid Ke’Shaun shared his story alongside his family and friends. “Shaun is very deeply committed to the children and to Make-AWish’s mission,” Miranda Harbor, director of community outreach for Make-A-Wish® MidSouth, said. Each year the tournament brings in between $100,000 and $150,000 and has raised more than $2 million not counting this year’s donations. The Make-A-Wish® Foundation devotes itself to granting wishes to children with life-threatening conditions so they and others may experience hope, strength and joy.

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Dr. David Rudd Reception Former University of Memphis provost Dr. David Rudd was named as the University’s 12th president. The doctor of psychology held court to meet his fellow Tiger fans in his new role. Blue and gray enthusiast, Harold Byrd, presented the reception. Byrd, founder and president of the Bank of Bartlett, said, “It’s one of the most important things in our community once you get past faith and family. It’s one of the most important forces for good.” Byrd pulled out all the stops, presenting Rudd to the community at the bank-owned 89 S. Front Street Building, a renovated cotton classing building complete with a rooftop views of the Mississippi River sunset, a wine cellar and a professional quality kitchen. Rudd spoke to a sea of blue and gray ties, gowns and other accoutrement to express his excitement about the University’s future while supporters dined on barbecue and sipped toddies. Neither the sunset nor the president disappointed. Story and Photos by Lesley Young

Alicia and Keith Norman with David Rudd and Harold Byrd

Story and Photos by Lesley Young

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Artisans, potters, art students and community members got to see their handiwork in action at the second annual Memphis Empty Bowls Project (MEBP). Wood bowls, blue bowls, multicolored bowls – there were over 400 handcrafted vessels from which guests could choose and give a test run by filling them with soup prepared by some of Memphis’ finest eateries, such as Tsunami Memphis, Café Society, Folk’s Folly, Alchemy Memphis and McEwan’s Memphis. The allyou-can-eat affair was held at the Church Health Center Wellness in Midtown in an effort to raise money to help those who struggle with food insecurity. This event benefited the Double Greens Program of GrowMemphis and the Church Health Center. “Our goal for the event this year is to raise funds and awareness about the lack of access to healthy fresh food to local Memphians. The Double Greens Program of GrowMemphis matches dollar for dollar on SNAP benefits. The farmers market accepts SNAP benefits, and the Double Greens program will double the amount of fresh food you buy at the market with SNAP. Sarah Ranson, codirector of MEBP said”the program increases access to fresh food people can’t have otherwise.“

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t was a night of honor and memories at the fifth annual Forever Young Senior Wish Dreamgivers Gala. The enchanting event was a time for Korean, World War II and Vietnam veterans along with their friends, families and supporters to come together, share memories and tell a good joke or two. Held in the beautiful Tennessee Ballroom of the Memphis Hilton, this event raised funds to send World War II, Battle of the Bulge veterans back to Belgium to find honor, healing and hope. Forever Young is a nonprofit dedicated to granting individual wishes for senior war veterans as well as funding one big trip each year for senior veterans to a place of military and emotional importance. Past trips have included Pearl Harbor, Normandy and the Vietnam Wall in Washington D.C. The patriotic affair was given the theme of “Dancing with the Star and Stripes” and guests arrived in their best formal wear ready to dance the night away. “This year is the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. We will be taking 14 men who fought in that battle to Belgium. All money raised from this evening goes toward that important trip. It just such an honor working with these veterans, knowing the service they have done for our country. The trip is a time for us to return the favor and give these veterans a time to heal and find closure,” said Diane Hight, founder and president of Forever Young. The cocktail hour had attendees chatting and mingling with old friends as everyone scoped out the silent auction. It was hard to pair down the bidding to just a couple of select items. Guests intensely bid on items such as jewelry from J. Jill and Mendikow. Several luxurious gift baskets caught bidders eyes like the Scentsy Gift basket filled high-end scented candles and perfumes or the Salon Liani basket filled with expensive hair products. Several wines were up for grabs as well as a bottle of limited edition Jack Daniels® Whiskey. A live auction with auctioneers Dave Nelson and Andy Gaia also got the crowd going with hot steals like the “Band of Brothers” Europe Tour, which include a 11-day tour of Europe, the beaches of Normandy and the “Eagle’s Nest,” among other places. Two special video presentations, “Back to Belgium” and “70th Anniversary of D-Day” were also part of the program. A Grand Salute topped of the evening, followed by dancing late into the night as the Memphis Jazz Orchestra compelled everyone onto the dance floor. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

Diane Hight and John Shipp

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Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South held its 29th annual Bowlin’ on the River Bowl-A-Thon at bowling centers across the region – Billy Hardwick’s All-Star Lanes, Winchester Bowling Center, FunQuest Family Entertainment Center in Collierville and Strike Zone Bowling Lanes in Southaven. Its largest fundraiser of the year, Junior Achievement’s bowling event drew more than 100 local corporations and organizations and thousands of bowlers to build team morale and have a good time all while supporting the community’s youth who participate in Junior Achievement programs. “Every dollar raised during Bowl-A-Thon helps Junior Achievement train the MidSouth’s next generation of leaders and goes a long way to boost each child’s chance for success in life,” said Larry Colbert, Junior Achievement president and CEO. Story and Photos Submitted

OutBid

Join Hands for Change Gala

Tennessee Brewery Untapped

The Memphis Gay and Lesbian Community Center (MGLCC) held their third annual fund-raiser, OutBid, to continue their mission of “empowering, connecting and advocating for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community of the MidSouth.” As guests arrived, they took in the sounds of The Randy Ballard Jazz Collective and enjoyed a cocktail or two as they mingled in the beautiful setting of the Clark Opera Memphis Center. Off the Square Catering provided some delightful treats for partygoers like mini Eggo waffles topped with chicken nuggets and maple syrup as well as bacon wrapped dates. The night also included a silent and live auction. Will Batts, MGLCC executive director, said, “MGLCC is a happy place where people can breathe. It is a safe place where people can be respected and loved.”

Guests at the Join Hands for Change Gala celebrated the American Civil Rights Movement’s influence on music, fashion and culture. Held at The Hotel Memphis, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., the gala was presented by The Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change. Located at the University of Memphis, the Institute teaches, studies and promotes civil rights and social change. The gala’s honoree was Beverly Robertson, longtime president of the National Civil Rights Museum. The evening included dinner, cocktails, music and dancing. Many guests donned their best sixties-inspired attire, from Flower Children and Mods to Black Panthers. Daphene McFerren, Director of the Hooks Institute, delivered a presentation called “The Civil Rights Movement’s Institute on Music, Fashion and Culture.” Cortney Robinson & Inspire, Julia Hicks, and Catherine Dixon all provided music. All joined together to perform a heartfelt rendition of the classic civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome,” with the audience joining in and joining hands.

Seeing the potential in the Tennessee Brewery that has been facing an unknown future for sometime now, some Memphians came together to make a plan to either throw a last hurrah for the brewery or a party to celebrate the beginning of a new future for the site. Michael Tauer, Andy Cates and Doug Carpenter came together and created “Tennessee Brewery Untapped,” a free, popup event that was made to display the brewery in a new light – one that would open up Memphians eyes to the possibilities the building has to offer the city for little over a month. The last day of this pop-up event featured the same crowd favorites: food truck meals, beer on tap, games, music and dancers. There was even a memory wall where members could memorialize their memories of the building in Sharpie on a piece of fabric. Ultimately, the real attraction was the site itself, which is well over 100 years old. This historic appeal drew hundreds of locals despite the Memphis springtime heat. The last day featured the event’s Sunday occurrence of “Beer Garden with Benefits,” which refunded $1 in the form of a token to a customer who purchased a beer. The tokens could be donated in buckets representing a charitable organization in the community.

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Story Submitted Photos by Bill Piacesi

Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

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Will Batts and Larrie Rodriguez Edna Moore, Claudia McFerren-Jones, June James and Jackie Payne Erin Wendell and Ashley Meeder

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The Indian Community Fund for Greater Memphis (ICFGM) celebrated the collaboration between itself and the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM). After donating $50,000 to the NCRM renovations, the two organizations held an event at the NCRM to thanks donors for their support and to invite others to see the work that ICFGM is doing within the community. Distinguished guests at the event included Ajit Kumar, the Consul General of India (Atlanta); Beverly Robertson, president of the National Civil Rights Museum; Herb Hilliard, Chair of Board NCRM; John Crowe, Board member of NCRM and retired CEO of Buckeye Technologies; Jim Duncan, President of the Memphis Botanic Gardens; and Lyman Aldrich, founder of Memphis in May. ICFGM continues to give back to the Greater Memphis community by collaborating with organizations such as MIFA’s Meals on Wheels, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis, the Children’s Museum of Memphis and the Memphis Botanic Gardens. In addition, the organization has awarded $15,000 in scholarships students. Staying true to its mission, the ICFGM continues to seek out other groups in Memphis with worthy causes in order to offer its ongoing support of community service programs, advocate philanthropy and empower youth in the Greater Memphis area. Story Submitted Photos by Saji Madapat

DREAM Summit Drum Squad Foundation, Inc. collaborated with Shelby County Schools and surrounding counties to host the third annual DREAM (Drumma’s Education, Arts, and Music) Summit and Student Business Plan Competition for more than 100 kids, parents, educators and industry professionals in the FedEx Institute of Technology at the University of Memphis. Hosted by Christopher James “Drumma Boy” Gholson, a renowned rapper, record producer, entrepreneur and Memphis native, the event marked the first-ever in Memphis following previous DREAM Summits held in Miami and Tampa. Students, ages 12-17, attended and were exposed to the business side of the multi-billion dollar music and sports industries and how to become future business entrepreneurs, professionals and executives in the fields. Story Submitted Photos by Tony Johnson

Ashlar Hall Benefit Urban Renaissance Initiative hosted a fund-raiser to raise support and funds for the historic Ashlar Hall, remembered by many as Robert “Prince Mongo” Hodges’ “The Castle,” a nightclub in the 1990s. Kevin Medlin, the current owner of Ashlar Hall, helped throw the benefit and opened up the site to the public as a way of letting Memphians take a look at the historic structure in a different light, one that they may only dimly remember from Mongo gatherings. Medlin also wanted to promote interest in using the property as a resource center for military veterans. 2014 Miss Memphis, Christine Williamson and her sister, Christal Williamson, 2014 Miss Banana Pudding Festival Outstanding Teen, gave a lovely rendition of the National Anthem. The benefit included tours of the site, auction items, appearances from members of the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience, Bumpus HarleyDavidson, the Memphis Mixed Martial Art gym and entertainment from national band Rosewater, who travel across the nation promoting their own “Homeless Veteran Project” charity tour, which donates clothing and necessities to veteran support agencies. Local veteran service, Alpha Omega Veterans Service, Inc. was the recipient of Rosewater’s donations that afternoon. All proceeds from the benefit went toward the Ashlar Hall’s restoration plan. Story and Photos by Rachel Warren

Nick Rice with Joy and Larry Rice Scott Melton, Kelly Woods, Susan Vallier, Allison Campbell and Ben Wolfe

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Johnnie Walker and Karen Simmons Christine Williamson and Christal Williamson

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The Bastille Day Fund-Raiser, held at the Central Gardens home of Larry and Joy Rice, actually had very little to do with the French National Holiday. This annual local celebration began in 1975 while Larry was still in law school. He was looking for a way to celebrate the completion of his first year of law school as well as summer term classes. Larry recalls, “Summer exams were held the week of July 4th. The next holiday on the calendar was Bastille Day on July 14, so that become the designated theme for our celebration.” For Larry, the days of law school exams have been over for 35 years. But the traditional celebration continues. Over 125 guests enjoyed a dinner buffet of ham and rolls, prosciutto-wrapped melon and cheese, lemon petit fours and traditional French madeleine cookies. This year, the party served as a benefit for A Step Ahead Foundation (ASAF), a nonprofit organization founded by Claudia Haltom. The organization provides access to long-acting, reversible contraception for women in Shelby County. Striving to help young women plan their lives, ASAF seeks to increase high school graduation rates, lower infant mortality rates and impact the cycle of poverty within the local community.

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By Dennis Phillippi

ble bridge, and never once felt the least bit endangered. Except for when Eric Ford was around, but that was because he was a juvenile delinquent who smoked and liked to chase little kids until he ran out of breath. Which didn’t take long, but was still harrowing. I think he was, maybe, eleven. By the time I was ten or so I was taking the city bus, which isn’t a subway, but still had plenty of crazy people on them. This was not considered odd behavior back in the seventies. Then again, neither was wearing butterfly collars, using the word “boogie” as a verb, and openly admitting to being a Democrat, but that’s for another column.

See, there it is, condescending parenting advice from someone who doesn’t have kids. Don’t even bother sending the email. I have plenty already. The article also pointed out that children in France are expected to eat the same things that adults do. In France. This isn’t like if kids here were expected to eat what adults do, which is basically pizza, hamburgers, and potato chips, which kids here would eat anyway. This is France we’re talking about. The home of pâté, coq au vin, escargot, and the stinkiest cheeses on the planet. Getting an American kid, from any of the various Americas by the way, to choke down any of those things would require massive bribery. Spanish kids, we learn, go to bed pretty much whenever they feel like it. Having watched the pitched battles my

friends have gone through trying to get their kid to go to bed at seven o’clock, this seems like a good alternative. Not only will it result in the kids actually going to sleep when they go to bed, it will also eliminate the adorable little snowflakes from waking you up at dawn on the weekend. Sure, you won’t have the freedom to watch shows on pay cable that involve lots of swordfights and medieval hot tubs, but maybe spending time with the kids is a better use of your time anyway. See, there it is, condescending parenting advice from someone who doesn’t have kids. Don’t even bother sending the email. I have plenty already. The author reported in a shocked way, that in Norway, children at day care, which is largely government subsidized, can often be seen napping outside, all bundled up, in subzero temperatures. Sure, that seems harsh, but kids have to go outside sometimes, and it’s pretty much always really cold in Norway. The pictures of Norwegian kids in their bright winter coats, playing in the snow were impossibly cute, and they seemed like happy kids. I’m sure a Norwegian reporter would be amazed to see a kid here snoozing outside when it’s ninety degrees. Okay, I would be too, but that’s beside the point. The overall tone of the article, and the comments section, which, I once again reminded myself, I should never read, was that we coddle our kids, but the rest of the world is completely nuts. People in other countries seem to believe that their children are not made out of fine porcelain. They tend, it seems, to believe the best in other people and aren’t locked in some kind of anxiety that the world is out to get their little snowflake. It certainly isn’t up to me to say which is the better approach. Not that it stops me from doing so. There has to be a middle ground here. A little more respect for kids, a little less letting them have a subway pass when they still believe in unicorns. Maybe bike helmets aren’t a bad idea, but maybe insisting that children go outside more is great idea. Just so you know, Frikadeller med kartofler rodkal og brun sovs is meatballs, potatoes, and red cabbage in a brown sauce, which sounds delicious.

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hile doing what passes for research for this column, which amounts to staring at the Internet for an hour hoping for inspiration, I came across a story accompanied by a photograph of a line of strollers outside of a restaurant and the startling headline: “Danish parents leave their kid on the curb while shopping.” Thank you Internet. It turns out the story was about parenting around the world and how it differs from here in the U.S. Mostly it was about how other countries seem to expect more from their children, and other people, than we do here at home. This gives me license to write on my favorite topic: how you should be raising your kids; advice from someone who does not have children. The Danish story was apparently true. It is common practice to leave infants outside in their stroller to take in some fresh air and sunshine while the folks go inside to buy socks or have a bite of Frikadeller med kartofler rodkal og brun sovs, the national dish of Denmark. I felt a little guilty about going over familiar territory so I did a little additional research. The kids are fine. No one bothers them or runs off with them because people very rarely bother or run off with babies. Parents here live in a constant state of fear that someone is going to take off with their kid because one time they saw something on the local news about a person grabbing a kid. It turns out that virtually every kid kidnapping that ever happens is done by a relative, and almost never a stranger, but, hey, that’s what we get from people watching the news. The piece I read described how, in Japan, children as young as five routinely take the subway by themselves. Now, even to this unparent, five seems a little young to be taking a train, but I started walking to school, which was a good mile away, when I was in first grade, so that was at six. I crossed major streets, walked through a wooded dead end, over an unsta-

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rofessional golfer and instructor, J.C. “Jake” Fondren, presented Stephanie Huff as the winner of the Six-Year-Old Division Champion at the 1981 Overton Park Open Championship. PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBERT HUFF

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