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St . Jude R ed Ca rpe t Bash Si gna tu re Ch ef s Au c ti on速 Bone Bash Q &A w ith Li z L ark i n
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CONTENTS
Contents December 2008
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Steve Ehrhart The AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s executive director is gearing up for the 50th anniversary of one of the city’s premier sporting events.
St. Jude Red Carpet Bash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
18 ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH Jacqueline A. and Edward Woods
Partygoers bedecked in ‘80s gear danced to the beat at St. Jude Children’s Research
30
Hospital’s annual blowout at Hollywood Casino Tunica.
StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26, 28 & 30
STREETSEEN Dr. Douglas R. Morrison
This designer is fashioning a following one custom necktie at a time. His movie DECEMBER 2008
won multiple Indie Memphis Film Festival accolades. He’s constantly amazed at the sweet sound coming from the city’s young musicians. StreetSeens spotlight Jo’V,
Morgan Jon Fox and Dr. Douglas R. Morrison.
Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32, 40 & 56 Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention
10 RSVP
Vox Popular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Q&A with Liz Larkin, the president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Foundation® of the
26
Mid-South, Inc.
42
Signature Chefs Auction
STREETSEEN Jo’V
®
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION® David Krog and Britney Baygents
Noted chefs turned up tastebuds at The Peabody to benefit the March of Dimes®.
RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 A trek across the city’s party landscape.
Bone Bash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 The Balinese Ballroom became a haven for costume lovers, who dressed incognito in support of the Arthritis Foundation.
RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 The Spirit of Giving…Less
28
58
The holidays are drawing near, and so is Mr. Phillippi’s thankfulness for fewer present options.
STREETSEEN Morgan Jon Fox
BONE BASH Anika Fageol Cover Photo Brad Troxel and Ansley Foxwell Murphy at St. Jude Red Carpet Bash Photo by Don Perry
Volume XIV
Number III
December 2008 PUBLISHER
Roy Haithcock EDITOR
Leah Fitzpatrick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ruth Cassin Kelly Cox Jonathan Devin Dennis Phillippi Lesley Young ART DIRECTOR
Patrick Aker s PHOTOGRAPHERS
DECEMBER 2008
Roy Haithcock Don Perry Steve Roberts SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Toni Ander son ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
12 RSVP
Libby Huff Seth Joneas 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
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 Copyright 2008 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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DECEMBER 2008
From the Editor
W
DECEMBER 2008
Photo by Steve Roberts
hen I rush out the door for an event, my mind adopts autopilot mode. Its goes something like this. Camera? Check. Notepad and pen? Check. Address? Check. Phone in case I get lost? Double check. Backup camera battery? Triple check. The list goes on, but one thing I never forget is a smile because I know one smile can multiply into a dozen more. While covering a particularly fun party last month, a smile I was not prepared for crept across my face as someone dear pointed out I’d been with RSVP for a year now. “A whole year?” I said. I couldn’t believe it! Where did that memo get misplaced? Anyway, my reaction was probably worth a thousand words as I broke out in celebratory spirit. Then, I began to do the inevitable—overanalyze. In light of 365 days swiftly passing by, the meaning of time became a question of utmost importance. If time is an invaluable commodity I thought, then what one chooses to do with that time must be worth the effort. It took not even a second to realize my time with the magazine has been more than well spent. Not only have philanthropists educated me about the good will behind at least a hundred local nonprofits, but I’ve met, written about and developed relationships with some of the city’s most noted movers and shakers, making for a great crash course I jokingly call “Getting to Know Memphis 101.” So, whom are you getting acquainted with in this month’s issue? You’ll meet a man in charge of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, which by the way is coming up January 2, in the Signature Memphis section. The StreetSeen features will introduce you to an oh-so-innovative men’s necktie designer, an acclaimed indie filmmaker and a maestro cultivating some of the area’s most promising musical talent. Last, but not least, the Vox Popular feature highlights one woman’s passion for giving through her involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of the Mid-South, Inc., a story not to be missed with the holidays upon us. Enjoy RSVPers, and thanks for giving me the year of my life.
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Leah Fitzpatrick editor@rsvpmagazine.com
AutoZone Liberty Bowl Executive Director/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital National Sports Council Co-Chairman
DECEMBER 2008
SIGNATURE MEMPHIS
Steve Ehrhart
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photo by Steve Roberts
Last book you’ve read: Hijacked, a true story about three FedEx pilots who fought off a hijack attempt in 1994. Favorite Memphis musician: Andy Childs, who always plays at the AutoZone Liberty Bowl Presidents’ Gala. Personal heroes: Billy Dunavant, Fred Smith and Pitt Hyde—Memphis entrepreneurs who used their ingenuity, creativity and dedication to build wonderful companies that have given jobs to hundreds of thousands of people globally. Movie you could watch over and over again: Rudy (I had the opportunity to get to know the real “Rudy” when he spoke to one of our teams). Favorite concert: The Doors, who I contracted to play at my college homecoming. Ideal vacation spot: The Colorado Rockies, since I was born and raised in Colorado and my great-grandfather ran a stagecoach through the mountains. Hobbies: Golf, racquetball and watching great competition on the football field. Your greatest achievement: Raising two great sons, Ryan and Brandon.
DECEMBER 2008
ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH
EVENT
St. Jude Red Carpet Bash “Dance to the Beat, and Help Kids Get On Their Feet.”
B George and Tracy Chism
Stephen Oseman and Sarah Logan
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ig hair with big bows, mullets and rat tails, jelly shoes, fingerless gloves, Michael Jackson and Cyndi Lauper! Hollywood Casino Tunica was once again the site of one of Memphis’ favorite parties as hundreds of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital supporters took a trip back to the 1980s at the St. Jude Red Carpet Bash. Many dressed in the spirit of the theme, which meant women with side ponytails and pouffy prom dresses and men in “Miami Vice” fashion and parachute pants. Throughout the ballroom, 50 tables were festooned in shiny black linens and glitter with era-specific memorabilia, such as skinny wrap sunglasses and Rubik’s Cubes. A silent auction opened during the cocktail hour, giving attendees opportunity to check out the plethora of donated items lining the walls. Guests then feasted on an impressive dinner buffet comprised of exquisite fare, such as shrimp, Chanterelle mushroom and bacon tartlets, crab legs, oysters on the half shell, toast points and caviar, crab and avocado salad, Pacific Rim chicken salad, Lobster Francaise, tortellini with sweet potato velouté, French cut lamb chops and Beef Wellington. The finishing touch was Hollywood Casino Chef Wayne McFall’s dessert extravaganza. Following dinner, emcees Jill Bucco of FM 100 and Brad Carson of KQK 94.1 introduced former St. Jude patient Tim Carpenter, who gave a moving inspirational speech. Jeff Morris served as auctioneer for the live auction, and with “Give to Live” on their minds, attendees gave generously through their bids and purchases. The live auction featured an evening with the Charlie Daniels Band, including dinner for 24 and a private concert, a Carrie Underwood autographed guitar and a 2009 Breeders Cup Weekend. The night really revved up as partygoers rocked out to their fave 80s tunes from Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster and DJ Tree. First time co-chairs Lana and Shawn Danko were extremely pleased and excited how the event turned out and gave enormous credit to John Osborne, vice president and general manager of Hollywood Casino Tunica, and to their committee chairs, including Sarah Logan, Nicole Shafer, Lee Gattas Proctor and Carmen Bond.
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Bryce and Sara Whitaker
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by Don Perry
Lana Danko and Karen Foster
Anna and Tom Palozola
Fred and Gayle Kuhl
Kim and Kevin Humphries
Shawn Danko with Beth and Clay Auttonberry
Jonathan Portnoy and Amber Rish
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EVENT ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH DECEMBER 2008
Sam and Melissa King
Matt Howell and Jill Bucco
Deelo Thompson and Kennedy Elsey
Andrea and David McKee
Mike Fowler and April McKee
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April Maltman and DJ Tree
Pam Oates, Jennifer Jaudon and Pam Nolley
Angela and Chris Thomas
Philip Gattas and Kaci Murley
Bobby McGinley and Ray Rico
Marina Yukon with Chris and Tina Badciong
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EVENT ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH DECEMBER 2008
Frank and Christina York
Jason and Caroline Walker
Kent and Dana Farmer
Nikki Jimenez and Cindy DeBardelaben
David and Portia McKee
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Tony and Jennifer Strafaci
Anne and Thayne Muller
Christy and John May
Drs. Emily and Paul Rettinger
Lori Turner and Mike Wilson
Carolyn and Terry Brigham
EVENT ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH DECEMBER 2008
J.R. Parsons and Christin Yates with Jill and Mike Hansen
Jennifer and Chad Fowler
Jimmy Richards and Joy Gribble
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Chris and Kate Peck with Julie and Joe Pepe
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EVENT
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DECEMBER 2008
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ST. JUDE RED CARPET BASH
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STREETSEEN
Jo’V Updating a Classic
DECEMBER 2008
W
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hen Jo’V set out to redesign a men’s wardrobe staple, the necktie, he did it out of necessity. However, the entrepreneur, who also sings, paints and specializes in home interiors and set design, decided that intimidating price tags would no longer hinder a golden career opportunity. That’s how JoVenTosh, a predominantly male fashion line the designer describes as “modern vintage couture,” was born. Since introducing JoVenTosh in 2003, Jo’V, whose moniker is a combination of his given name, Jonathan, and the word “vintage,” has come a long way from the days of recovering a “Looney Tunes” necktie with denim scraps and learning how to sew. He admits God inspired him to delve into fashion and feels fortunate that friends provided old clothes in the beginning when he couldn’t afford fabric. Even his first sewing machine was a gift from a stranger. “I was sitting in an office venting to a friend on the phone about not having a sewing machine when the receptionist overheard me and offered to donate her old sewing machine,” Jo’V remembers. Now the high fashion designer scours fabric stores in Atlanta and New York for vintage materials he says most people overlook. He prides himself on ignoring trends and creating one-of-a-kind tiescots, tiescarves and newsboy style caps, to name a few. Though no one style dominates, lots of Asian-inspired pieces can be found in his collection. His clientele includes models, trendy professionals and even everyday people, but one characteristic unifies JoVenTosh fans. He elaborates, “I like to see people polished. When they step out of their house, I like them to look runway ready.” Speaking of runways, Jo’V achieved an industry milestone when asked to be a featured designer at New York Fashion Week last year. He outfitted 42 models in ensembles from his winter collection, and a show attendee liked the JoVenTosh line so much that the designer was asked to be part of another fashion show in the Big Apple. Jo’V has also participated in Memphis Urban Fashion Week and is gearing up for a dog line called Jo’V Puppy Couture, which will debut in March of next year, as well as a fall 2009 clothing campaign. Currently, Jo’V only sells clothing through his Web site, but he dreams of opening a big store that will showcase all of his talents. With creativity as his forte, a tailor-made business should suit this designer just fine. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
DECEMBER 2008 RSVP
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STREETSEEN
Morgan Jon Fox Motion Picture Master
DECEMBER 2008
M
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organ Jon Fox’s fourth feature-length film, OMG/HaHaHa, co-written with John Tom Roemer, might have swept the 2008 Indie Memphis Film Festival in six award categories, but the filmmaker admits messing up a lot before bringing projects to the big screen. “My friends and I would goof off in high school and shoot stuff with home video cameras,” Fox says. “Later, I saved up money to buy equipment and made a lot of short experimental films…then you couldn’t make digital films like you can now.” Take his current film, for example, which started out with a completely different title and didn’t contain the Web cam scenes and onscreen blog posts that resonate well among today’s technologically savvy generation. Fox, under the auspices of his production company, Sawed-Off Collaboratory Productions, originally shot OMG/HaHaHa in the summer of 2006, but he wasn’t happy with the finished product. So, he brought on Jake Casey to play Derrick, a teenage blogger who weaves the stories of his friends’ lives together. Fox loved the “silly and playful” quality the film took on after adding Casey’s character and subsequently spent 600 to 700 hours in the editing process. However, the authentic storyline in OMG/HaHaHa remains ever-present in Fox’s films. He thrives on telling stories that are highly personal and doesn’t shy away from addressing organic, human issues, like relationships between parents and children. His friends even comprise much of the cast, and the setting, largely based in Midtown Memphis, showcases some of Fox’s favorite stomping grounds. “In general, my films have a sense of fragility to them and are so representative of the people and places I love,” Fox says. The film’s actors also utilized improvisational techniques to preserve a naturalistic element. Fox provided scene outlines and character workshops prior to filming, but a script wasn’t provided until shoot days. A lot of actors didn’t even know with whom they would be sharing a scene until the time came to film. Fox laughs, “There was a method to my madness because I wanted to push the element of surprise and wanted the actors to have the knowledge of their roles as themselves.” As the filmmaker with a deprecating smile stores away his movie awards, which include the Best Hometowner Feature, and wraps up work on Craig Brewer’s $5 Cover Webisodes, he only has one wish. “I hope I can write a film that can touch just one person, then my life will be worthwhile,” Fox says. Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
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DECEMBER 2008
STREETSEEN
Dr. Douglas R. Morrison Musically Inclined
DECEMBER 2008
D
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r. Douglas R. Morrison has been a conductor for 30 years but swears one of the best orchestras he’s heard plays here in the Bluff City. Critics might say he is biased, yet others would say a conductor with his experience probably knows a thing or two about a standout musical ensemble like the Memphis Youth Symphony. “Their level of performance is incredible, which is exciting because these kids are the future of music,” Dr. Morrison muses. Though working with youth orchestras has occupied a small percentage of his musical career, he relished the opportunity to serve as the Memphis Youth Symphony’s conductor/ music director. During his audition for the role more than a year ago, he was blown away by the group when he led a Sunday-afternoon rehearsal. “There was no reason for them to play as well as they did, and they’re even better now,” he says of the 65-member strong symphony. The kids played to his heart strings that day, making the decision to relocate from Amarillo, Texas, where he was the conductor/music director of the Amarillo Symphony Youth Orchestra and resident conductor of Chamber Music Amarillo, an easy one for him and his wife, a pianist and violinist. Now in his second season with the Memphis Youth Symphony, the maestro, who still wears a pair of cufflinks from his high school band instructor during every performance, is preparing for the ensemble’s concerto concert on February 22 at U of M’s Harris Recital Hall, a spring concert held during the Candle on the Bluff Celebration and Awards at Hope Presbyterian Church on April 3 and a season closer on May 3 at the Cannon Center. He only works with the young musicians on Sundays for three hours during the school year but emails the kids practice schedules to follow between rehearsals. For the remainder of the week, he studies scores, does programming for the upcoming season and administrative tasks. He would also like to plan more outreach programs for the symphony because he firmly believes that meeting other musicians is essential. “I tell the kids to start networking now because music is the smallest profession in the world,” Dr. Morrison smiles. For those aspiring young musicians, Dr. Morrison offers the age-old adage “practice hard,” but he also urges kids to not get discouraged while attempting to overcome that first hurdle, when holding a note seems impossible. “Just like anything else, you need to know what you’re doing before you can have any fun,” he says. “First comes the discipline, then comes the freedom.” Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photo by Steve Roberts
DECEMBER 2008
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Carissa Nowak and Roy Algea at Rock for Love 2
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32 Marvin Stockwell, Morgan Card and Jeff Hulett at Rock for Love 2
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t was a record year,” according to University of Memphis special athletic events coordinator Judy Gupton. Not only did 250 guests make an appearance at the Tiger Athletic Classic fund-raiser, but they also helped raise $160,000 for the University of Memphis Tiger Athletics Department. Now in its sixth year, the special event was held at the U of M Holiday Inn in the main ballroom. Donors dined and sipped while listening to jazz guitar played by Joe Restivo, and bid for such key items as a private dinner for eight with Chef Erling Jensen, the opportunity to assist John Calipari in coaching the Tigers for one night, and a round-trip ticket to Washington, D.C. on a FedEx jet. To kick off the SunTrust Rock for Love 2 benefit concert, Ardent Studios, one of the event’s presenting sponsors, hosted a barbecue reception at its famed recording studio. During the next two evenings, Memphis music fans were treated to some great tunes at the Hi-Tone. This annual musical showcase raised more than $22,800 for the Church Health Center, which helps provide affordable healthcare to the working uninsured. The Mid-South Chapter of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association (HSMAI) recently hosted an inaugural Chinese auction at the Doubletree Memphis. Introductions were made, friendships were sparked, and fun was had by all amidst great food, drinks, and entertainment. The organization auctioned off romantic weekend getaways, Elvis merchandise, and much more at this fast-paced auction to benefit the Child Advocacy Center and HSMAI’s Scholarship Fund. Memphians flocked to AutoZone Park for a day of treats, games, entertainment, and mouth-watering ice cream flavors as Ronald McDonald House® of Memphis celebrated its 14th annual Big Scoop Ice Cream Festival. Big Scoop provided a day of magic for kids big and small, including a rock climbing wall, the rocking sounds of The Summers, the beats of the Watoto de Afrika Dance Group, Ronald’s magic show, and an ice cream feeding contest. Proceeds totaling more than $40,000 will benefit Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. Story Submitted and by Lesley Young Photos Submitted and by Drew Smith and Lesley Young
Jared, Branson and Wesley Summers with Ronald McDonald at Big Scoop Ice Cream Festival
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Vox Popular Q&A with Liz Larkin
W
hile children around the world eagerly scribble their holiday wish lists, Liz Larkin will be receiving wishes of another sort. As president and CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of the Mid-South, Inc. for the past three years, Larkin processes wishes from children with life-threatening medical conditions. Since the Mid-South chapter’s founding in 1986, the local office has never turned down a wish from lack of funding and has set a remarkable precedent among nonprofits with its employee-giving campaign. RSVP editor Leah Fitzpatrick met with Larkin, who formerly served as the regional vice-president for the American Cancer Society® in Arkansas for 13 years, to uncover what keeps bringing smiles to thousands of kids whom benefit from the organization’s 66 chapters nationwide.
Larkin: The mission-it’s such a solid mission, and knowing that what we do truly makes a difference in children’s lives. So many other organizations are research and treatment based, and we are able to supplement that research and treatment, often times giving the child something to look forward to—the hope, strength and joy they need to get through treatment. With Make-A-Wish, we grant a wish and see the outcome right then and there, and the donor sees the outcome.
DECEMBER 2008
RSVP: How long does it take to grant a wish after it’s referred?
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Larkin: We have granted a wish in days. That’s not the ideal situation though. My husband actually worked on a wish for a child from another chapter who was here at one of our local hospitals. We got the call on a Friday afternoon, and they wanted us to grant the wish that weekend. So, we came in on that Sunday, and the child’s wish was to meet the Cincinnati Bengals, and of course that couldn’t happen because the child was here, but the Bengals were wonderful and sent a box full of helmets, pajamas, uniforms and streamers. Typically, from the point of referral to the time the child’s wish is granted averages three to six months. The doctor is going to be involved in the process from day one, and the doctor’s going to let us know when he or she thinks the wish should be granted. Typically, when a child is going through treatment and if it’s a travel wish, the doctor is going to have us wait until treatment is over. If it’s a gift wish, then we can often grant those during treatment. The timing relies heavily on the doctor. RSVP: Have any doctors reported back to you about their patient’s morale after getting a wish? Larkin: Absolutely. I heard a wonderful quote this morning from a video that our national office has done, and it was a doctor who was quoting it, and he said, “A wish gives a child hope, and that hope gives the child the strength to fight.” We truly believe that. We don’t want to take anything away from modern medicine because, of course, there’s been advances in technology and research, and we’re seeing the efforts of that. We’re seeing childhood leukemia that used to be a death sentence, and now 90 to 95 percent of children are surviving with it. Truly, Make-A-Wish feels that we can step in and
grant a wish that gives the child something to fight for. It gives them so much to look forward to, and inner strength is a big part of the healing process. RSVP: Does a child know beforehand that his or her wish is being granted? Larkin: Ideally, the child does not know until we grant the wish, but there can be time between the granting of the wish and the going. Families for the most part do a great job of keeping it a secret. We’ve pulled the wool over some kids’ eyes. There’s a joke we say around here: lying is bad, but at Make-AWish, it’s ok to tell little white lies. We’ve told children a range of lies to get them to come to where we’re going to grant the wish. One thing our chapter does that we’re very proud of is a lot of our sponsors are involved in telling the child their wish is being granted. We’ve got a great program called The Kids for Wish Kids. It’s a program in schools where students, faculty and even parents raise money throughout the year, and then they grant a wish. I mean, who is more creative than a group of teachers and their students? We want the wish granting experience to be as magical as the wish itself, and our sponsors go all out. Photos by Don Perry
RSVP: What first attracted you to the president/CEO job at Make-AWish?
RSVP: Do you remember the first wish that was granted when you signed on board here?
Larkin: I do. It was my first week on the job, and it was in January, and I went with one of our development coordinators down to Hernando, Mississippi for a school wish. This little boy was precious, and they gave him Spiderman pajamas because he loves Spiderman, and his wish was to go to Walt Disney World. All of the students got involved, and I’m boo-hooing because it was so magical. I came home and told my husband, “This is the best job ever!” You know, you get to a point where you’ve been involved in so many wish grantings that they kind of run together. I share this with the staff often: when we get to the point where it’s not touching us, then we’ve got to get re-energized because it should always touch us. RSVP: How many wishes have been granted through this chapter so far this year? Larkin: Our goal this year is 275, and our fiscal year just started September 1, and 34 wishes have been granted thus far. Since our inception, we’ve granted over 3,100 wishes through this chapter,
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which includes all of Arkansas, West Tennessee and North Mississippi. RSVP: What is your interaction with other Make-A-Wish chapters? Larkin: We have a great relationship with the other 65 chapters. We get together as a body twice a year for something called our Leadership Council, and it is made up of chapter leaders and their board chairs, and we make recommendations and vote on things presented to our national board. The networking is phenomenal, and we try to break down into chapters of like sizes. We’re also able to share resources, which is really nice. However, we are still very much a grassroots organization in the sense that every wish has two volunteers that work on a wish. We also have volunteers that work on events and in the office. You know, our chapter has a staff of 19, but we have 500-plus volunteers and could not do it without them.
DECEMBER 2008
RSVP: Has this chapter ever received a special award? Larkin: We did. One year ago in October, we received the Infinite Wish Award. There’s only one a year, and it’s given to a chapter that grants a wish that really involves the entire community. “Sam’s Wish” is what that wish has come to be known as because the kid wanted a baseball field in his backyard. The entire wish cost us around $3,500, and we had over $30,000 of in-kind donations. There’s a lot of in-kind donations, and obviously there’s a lot of expenses associated with a wish, but we try to get as much as we can donated.
RSVP: What is the most expensive wish this office has funded? Larkin: We have granted some very expensive wishes, including a European cruise, as well as trips to Hawaii and Australia. To sponsor a wish is $5,000, and that used to be your average cost of a wish. Unfortunately, with rising travel costs, that wish cost has gone up. Our average cost is really more like $7,500 now. We have kept the wish sponsorship level at $5,000 because so many wish sponsors are groups of individuals that come together and might think $7,500 is such an astronomical number and walk away. So, we’ve created some giving opportunities, such as a U.S. travel sponsorship and an international travel sponsorship, that helps offset the costs above the $5,000 because travel is our highest cost. RSVP: The Make-A-Wish Stories of Light Radiothon is coming up, so can you please share some details about this fund-raiser? Larkin: It is December 11 and 12. Our main site will be at the Carrefour Shopping Center on Kirby and Poplar. We will transform an empty shop there into Make-A-Wish headquarters. We partner with FM 100, so they’ll be set up there and will broadcast live those two days. There will be a phone bank, and volunteers will come in and share their stories about why they got involved in the organization, and children will share stories about their wishes. Then, we will have volunteers on the street corners accepting donations. It’s our annual campaign, but it’s an opportunity to talk about the entire organization. It’s not just a fund-raiser. RSVP: How much money did the radiothon raise last year?
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Larkin: We have two fund-raisers in Memphis, one being Dishes for Wishes, which will be held April 26 at Felicia Suzanneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. This is an upscale food event that is less of a gala with a huge staff, and more of a mission-based event because more funds go to the cause than expenses. It has been met with overwhelming applause. We also have the Shaun Micheel Make-A-Wish Golf Classic in the summer. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really neat because every team has an honorary wish child as its team captain, and so everyone is playing for that team captain. We pride ourselves on keeping our event expenses under 10 percent, and sometimes under 5 percent. We also have a whole list of external events that other companies put on to raise funds for Make-AWish. RSVP: What has been your most memorable experience with Make-A-Wish? Larkin: One thing Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been proud of is our chapter started a WishmakerÂŽs at Work program, and we have had 100 percent participation for the last three years. Every staff person is giving some dollar amount out of their paycheck. Being a nonprofit, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make the largest salaries out there, but to be able to go out to a company and tell them we are a staff of 19 that is funding a wish every year is just phenomenal. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re actually raising money for our fourth wish now.
Larkin: Absolutely. In the past, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been so focused on granting a wish for $5,000 that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve turned some people off who think they can never raise that amount of money. The first thing we want people to know is that any dollar amount will help us. You may not be able to do $5,000, but you might can do $5. Even a small dollar amount like that might be too much for some people, but we also need volunteers, who are the backbone of our organization. Another thing with the volunteers is they might be eligible to refer a child to us, however we only take referrals from one of three sources: the child, the parent or legal guardian or a medical professional. We do not solicit wishes. The wishes have to be referred to us.
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RSVP: Are there any other internal fund-raisers Make-A-Wish puts on?
RSVP: Are there ways for people to contribute to Make-A-Wish if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not able to do so financially?
RSVP: How do you think Make-A-Wish stands out from other charities that benefit children with life-threatening medical conditions? Larkin: Once our donors give us $5,000, and are in turn able to grant a wish, they are seeing right then and there the impact their gift has made. An objection we sometimes hear from a new donor is, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why should I give you that amount of money to help one child, when I can give someone else said amount of money and help a lot of children?â&#x20AC;? Our answer back to that is, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A wish literally touches more than just the wish child.â&#x20AC;? There is the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family, their school, the community, healthcare professionals, etc. That is why we invite people to share the power of a wish.
DECEMBER 2008
Larkin: In two days, we raised more than $500,000 last year.
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DECEMBER 2008
he Peabody Hotel’s Grand Ballroom looked pretty in pink to pay tribute to the Mid-South’s AfricanAmerican breast cancer patients. Nearly 500 people turned out for the fourth annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon hosted by the Sisters Network Memphis Chapter, the only national African-American breast cancer survivorship organization in the country. WLOK’s program and music director Kim Harper served as emcee, and Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton was the Shawn Sandy, Charles Shepherd and Christy Prewitt at guest speaker. A portion of the proceeds from the Crescent Club Charity Classic luncheon will benefit the Sister House, which is a home away from home for breast cancer survivors and their families while they receive medical treatment. Mavis Stanley Memorial” Charity Event The “M offered attendees a night of ballroom dancing at Briarcrest Christian High School. Barry Stanley, whose late wife Mavis lost her battle with cancer this year, and his family members were honorees for the evening. More than 130 USA Dance, Greater Memphis Chapter members and the Jim Mahannah Band also participated in this black-tie event that benefited the American Cancer Society®. The fourth annual Tennessee Week for the Animals got a running start with a kickoff party at the Blue Plate Café on Poplar. Local artist Debbie Richmond was on hand to unveil her painting recently 40 featured on the cover of Animal World USA, while clasDara Vongphrachanh, Curtis Parker, Sophie Chytla and Adrian Nguyen at sical harpist Erica Ball-Holmes entertained the room Crescent Club Charity Classic overflowing with animal supporters. McAlister’s Deli, D. Canale Beverages, Inc., and Blue Plate Café provided hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Spearheaded by Michelle Buckalew, this statewide event designed to highlight animal awareness and education will expand nationally in 2009. Advocates for Planned Parenthood Greater Memphis (PPGM) gathered at Occasions for the Bob James Award Presentation. This honor was bestowed upon Virginia “Ginger” Ralston for her continued dedication to the ideals of Planned Parenthood and for donating $100,000 to the organization for the Roy and Virginia Ralston Fund. Nora Boone served as event chair for this fourth award ceremony, which raised Desire’ McCain and Frank Holeman at funds for PPGM’s programs that provide affordable, “Mavis Stanley Memorial” Charity Event reproductive health care. Foodies and vino lovers savored and sipped for a good cause at the Crescent Club Charity Classic. Crescent Club executive chef Allen Spivey prepared the six-course meal paired with wines courtesy of Victor Robilio Company. A silent auction also offered goodies and helped raise $3,000 for the Commission on Missing and Exploited Children, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and ClubCorp’s Employee Partners Care Foundation.
Joyce Allen, Mike Labonia and Debbie Richmond at Tennessee Week for the Animals Kickoff
Story and photos Submitted and by Leah Fitzpatrick Angela Tillman, Alex Safdari and Carole Eady at “Mavis Stanley Memorial” Charity Event
Carolyn Whitney and Mayor A C Wharton at Pink Ribbon Luncheon
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Greg and Amy Beth Hastings
Ryan and Ashley Schneider
rea chefs nourished hundreds of appetites with exquisite fare at the annual Signature Chefs Auction®. Plates in hand, guests raved about the eats as well as the impact the event’s beneficiary, the March of Dimes®, makes in the lives of those born prematurely. A silent auction and wine tasting held in The Peabody’s Continental Ballroom warmed up elegantly clad attendees for the 24 chef tastings that followed in the Grand Ballroom. Hungry crowds gathered at each station to learn about unique food combinations and the culinary geniuses behind the creations. From The Peabody’s seaweed salad, served over black sesame noodles, to The Grove Grill’s roasted butternut squash lobster bisque to The Tennessean’s chocolate Grand Mariner truffles, all tastes were covered. “If you maintain a good food to drink ratio, you’ll be content,” guest Warren Pan joked. The cause for the occasion was evident at all stations, which were decorated with posters of the chefs posing alongside children who have benefited from the March of Dimes. The youngsters’ smiles seen on the posters were priceless, but the reality is that these children have overcome the difficulties of being born prematurely. Each child’s date of birth, birth weight and weeks of gestation were listed on the posters as well. As partygoers settled in at tables adorned with twig centerpieces bearing monochromatic palettes of fruits and veggies, emcee Steve Conley of Classic Hits 94.1 KQK took the stage. “These chefs deserve a standing ovation for giving up a Sunday night,” Conley said. A resounding applause broke out, and then Irene Smith, the executive director of the March of Dimes’ local chapter, recognized Erling Jensen, executive chef and owner of Erling Jensen, The Restaurant, with a special award for serving as the event’s lead chef for 10 years. Other highlights included a live auction conducted by John Roebuck of Roebuck Auctions and a short film about John Bragg’s (owner/chef of Circa) family struggles when his son, Charlie, arrived early at 31 weeks. “The experience of seeing our child as well as others in the NICU was a special thing,” Bragg said. “Our son is now two and almost caught up for his age.” Michael K. Pigors of FedEx Express, the presenting sponsor, was the honorary chair, and Lori Groscost and Stacie Tinkey served as co-chairs. Until next year, keep your forks handy for another memorable feast! Added Smith, “In spite of these trying times, we are so grateful for the Memphis community’s support of the Signature Chefs Auction, which raised money to assure the health of both mothers and their babies.”
See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Erling and Patti Jensen
Andrea Brunson and Tom Ochman
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
Glenda and John Roebuck with Stephanie Crowe
Chris and Kelly Rogers
Shirley and Dan Mullally
EVENT Warren Pan and Molly Fitzpatrick
Regina and Mike Palmertree
DECEMBER 2008
Michael and Lisa Erhardt
SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION 速
Denise and Bobby Sharp
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Gary Mullins and Shannon Williams
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A Trek Across the City’s Party L andscape “Fall into Fashion” Variety Children’s Charity Luncheon and Fashion Show The Variety Children’s Charity has
vide deserving children with medical treat-
McComic and Katherine Keifer swapped
ment and artificial limbs, to name a few of
stories about their long-time involvement
its services. American Tuxedo, Chocolate Soup,
with the Variety Children’s Charity and what it meant to be some of the local chap-
Coldwater Creek, For You Boutique, Muse
ter’s first female members, since the organi-
and Unique Boutique presented this luncheon to help further the cause. As guests
decades and is now reaching out to a new
dined on buffet items of Greek pasta salad,
generation of supporters through events
fresh spinach salad, cedar smoked salmon
Fall into Fashion” Luncheon and like the “F
and brioche bread pudding, these sponsors
Fashion Show. On a sunny Saturday after-
outfitted models for a fashion show emceed
DECEMBER 2008
been assisting at-risk youth for seven
Lauren Chachere and Lindsay West
zation initially only allowed males member-
48 RSVP
with members of all ages. Guests Reba
ship status. These lovely ladies also shared some of the club’s background. Cynthia and Charles Thompson with Paula Schatz
Mildred Kiel and Bess Lubin
Rooted in the entertainment indus-
noon, attendees strutted into The
try, Variety began when 11 showmen found
Esplanade ready to take on the organiza-
a baby outside a theatre in Pittsburgh,
by Terry Reeves. Reeves also entertained
tion’s mission and take in the season’s
when he sang “All of Me,” which was
trends.
accompanied by the piano stylings of Irving Evans.
Attendees first greeted one another
Company d wowed the crowd as well
during a social hour held underneath a tent outdoors. Complete with a Chinese auction
with a special dance performance. A group
and a signature brunch refreshment—
of young adults diagnosed with Down
mimosas—the opening festivities provided
Syndrome, the dance troupe has performed
the perfect welcome to an occasion filled
at national conventions and participates in weekly classes to rehearse jazz, modern dance and lyrical ballet. Darlene Winters led the group this day as they performed to Mamie Jones, Libby Lucchesi and Gini Carver
“Feeling Good,” “Somewhere” and “On Broadway,” a fitting song since Company d
Pennsylvania in 1927. The baby’s mother left a note asking the showmen to take care
Lynda Thompson, Karen Wood and Sandra and David Marshall
recently returned from a trip to New York. With the collaborative efforts of
of her child, so the men, who became the
Sherri Schwartz, event chair, and Joyce
first Variety Club members, decided to
Emery, fashion show director and coordina-
adopt the baby. Other chapters arose as the
tor, the fund-raiser brought in $5,000 for
founding members moved, and now the
Variety. Event supporters included Cynthia
group has 53 chapters worldwide that pro-
and Charles Thompson, Paula Schatz,
Mildred Kiel, Bess Lubin, Ginny Music, Shirley Crow, Mamie Jones, Libby Lucchesi, Gini Carver, Lauren Chachere, Lindsay West, Lynda Thompson, Karen Wood and Sandra and David Marshall. Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
One’s personal and professional life often thrives as a result
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ates for young professionals. Events like the MPACT Maker Awards, recently held at the Jack Robinson Gallery in the South Main Arts District, not only pro-
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back reaps numerous benefits for a community’s
Business Achievement; Tarrin McGhee, Community
longevity.
Involvement; Roblin Webb, Educational
Shining the Light on Memphis’ Best” was “S the theme of the night as eight awards were
Achievement; Martavious Jones, Political Achievement; Leah Fitzpatrick, Newcomer of the Year; Girls, Inc. (represented by Stacie Waddell and Meghan Cloud), Organization of the Year; and My Harrison, Role Model of the Year. A celebration ensued with hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and mingling, and several new members were enlisted. Others partaking in the fun were Amina Dilawari, Chris Rogers, Sam Erkulwater, Warren Pan, Laura Ray, Tom Logue, Jeni Stephens, Eric Robertson, Molly Fitzpatrick, Liz Jones, John Scruggs, Susie Bjorklund, Pat Mitchell Worley and Deni and Patrick Reilly.
Stacie Waddell, Meghan Cloud, Eric Robertson and Jenny Howard
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
bestowed upon those whom have excelled in a civic
DECEMBER 2008
and/or professional realm. In honor of the festivi-
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50
ties, which were held in conjunction with MPACT Memphis’ seventh anniversary, light bulbs in every
Leadership Academy Annual Luncheon Featuring Cory Booker
size and wattage filled clear vases set atop bistro tables. The symbolism was priceless. “We are here to honor those who have a
What a turnout! Some 900 people packed into the Hilton Memphis for the Leadership
concrete impact on the community,” Gwyn Fisher,
Academy Annual Luncheon to hear how one man is
MPACT Memphis’ executive director, said.
making a difference in what was once regarded as a
“Through their efforts, Memphis will grow brighter
bleak urban landscape. Mayor Cory Booker of
ever year.”
Newark, New Jersey was the honored guest speaker that motivated the city’s top leaders and philanthropists to take their lunch outside of the office.
Amina Dilawari and Molly Fitzpatrick Kent Underwood and Lauren Lewis
Maney of Q107.5 fulfilled the master of ceremonies duties by highlighting ways for newcomers
“We actually sold out of tickets and had to
to get involved with the organization and announc-
turn 60 to 70 people away,” said Didi Crandell of
ing board nominations and the chair-elect, Jenny
the Leadership Academy.
Howard. The awards ceremony soon began with
The program began with David Waddell,
Maney saying, “This is a great way to highlight fel-
chairman of the Leadership Academy board,
low Memphians.”
enlightening the room about the academy’s mission
Awards went to the following: Ekundayo Bandele, Arts & Culture Promotions; Chris Reyes,
to locate talent, cultivate it and deploy it for the civic benefit of the city. Vice chair Martha Perine
Beard also took the floor and urged a standing round of applause for Mayors Willie Herenton and A C Wharton, who were both in attendance. Lunch then commenced as the focus turned to Gayle Rose and Mayor Booker, who were seated onstage for a question and answer style format. Rose opened up the discussion by saying,
Thomas Whitehead, Cynthia Allen and Echelle Rutschman
ple,” Booker said. “Responsibility always begins with the individual.” This event was sponsored with the help of CB Richard Ellis, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis-Memphis Branch, Hyde Family Foundations, Henry Turley Companies, Comcast, FedEx and
DECEMBER 2008
Tonya Meeks and Felicia Scarpati
“It’s good to acknowledge we’re in unprecedented times, and I’m fortunate to have the privilege of welcoming a man who has a clear vision, bold ideas and is on a mission to re-invent one of the country’s most challenging urban environments. He’s Memphis.”
David Waddell and Amos Maki
Bags for Christmas
Gerber/Taylor Associates, Inc. Those in attendance included Kent Underwood, Lauren Lewis, Keith McKibben, Jonathan Lewis, Thomas Whitehead, Cynthia Allen, Echelle Rutschman, Amos Maki, Tonya Meeks, Felicia Scarpati, Eric Mathews, Nicole Roy, Lee Warren, Dorothy Gunther Pugh, Ann Hawkins, John Weeden and Marc Willis.
Lee Warren, Nicole Roy and Eric Mathews
Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick
Booker, who took over his mayoral role in 2006 at the age of 36, has been praised for his ability to spur individuals to adopt leadership roles and for his crime-fighting tactics, including the creation of the Newark Comprehensive Center for Fathers. The mayor stressed time and again the need for citizens to adopt a larger spiritual view of their respective communities and to become preventers of crime, rather than responders. “Problems lie in the inaction of good peo-
Connections: Food benefiting Ballet Memphis It’s not difficult to imagine the many connections between the senses of taste, sound and sight, but Ballet Memphis’ fourth annual benefit performance, Connections: Food, brings new meaning to the phrase “dancing for my dinner.”
And many personalized gifts for all
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also facing a lot of challenges we have here in
The evening began in the shadowy
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ambiance of the Bridges facility downtown, where about 200 guests gathered around a candlelit reflecting pool for blueberry mojitos and highballs while listening to a four-piece jazz combo. Guests like Kate Duigman, Lisa McCaroll, Jacqueline Freestone, Alnita and Jesse McClure, Sarah Petschonek, Eric Mathews, Moira Logan, Roger Courts, Judy Tucker and Mark Ratay arrived wearing either sports blazers, business suits or the little Hannah Burton, Simone Levine and Scott Peacock
formed “A Comedie of Taste” choreographed by Jesus Pacheco to the music of Brahms and Mozart, guests savored the evening’s culinary introduction. The second dance portrayed the wild move-
Gracie
ments of salmon in their up-river journey while attendees enjoyed horseradish crusted pinwheels of
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Kate Duigman, Lisa McCarroll and Jacqueline Freestone
black dress. Artistic director Dorothy Gunther Pugh welcomed the excited crowd to be seated for dinner at
RSVP
round tables decked with white linen service and multi-colored zinnias, field grasses, beauty berries and sunflowers. Honorary event chair Chef Scott Peacock of the Watershed Restaurant in Decatur, Georgia, explained the evening’s format of matchWhere the beautiful people knit!
ing a specially choreographed ballet with each of
Philip West and Roger Johnson
salmon, turnip greens and Gulf shrimp cheddar grits by Johnny Kirk of Stella Restaurant. The
Cozy up with Yarniverse!
dance was choreographed by Jane Rehm. The third course featured Chef Jose Gutierrez’s (Encore Restaurant) beef tenderloin with orange bourbon glaze, which also turned out to be the theme of the entrée dance selection, cho-
Christin Petrin, Taylor Klock and Amanda Leemis
the four courses. The first course included an array of salads and hors d’oeuvres, including figs over goat cheese, Thai shaved steak, chicken dumplings, grilled scallop sashimi and several more, all by Karen 709 S. Mendenhall @ Poplar 818-0940 www.yarniverse.com
Blockman Carrier and Tim Barker of Automatic Slim’s Tonga Club. As Ballet Memphis dancers per-
Alnita and Jesse McClure
reographed by Mark Godden to a sensual combi-
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nation of Dvorak and Leonard Cohen.
Chocolate Stuffers
Leontynes and ambrosia by Chef Martha Hall Foos wrapped up the meal with Camille A. Brown’s interpretation of “Un Festin Divin,” set to music by Kurt Clayton. Company members Crystal Brothers, Travis Bradley, Kendall Britt, Nicole Corea, Stephanie Mei Hom, Leigh Lijoi, Rafael Ferreras, Julie Nierkasz, Steven McMahon, Jonathan Powell, Rachel Shumake, Hideko Karasawa, Joshua Seibel, Scott Spivey and Stacie Williams received numerous, well-deserved ovations throughout the night. Other Ballet Memphis supporters in atten-
Amy Spencer, Gloria Dodds and Ryan Swanson
(such as Sweeney Todd). Characters also ran the gamut from the celebrity-oriented (A-Rod) to the silly (the Pillsbury Doughboy) to the sinister (the most frightening scarecrow EVER).
dance included Christin Petrin, Taylor Klock,
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Amanda Loomis, Hannah Burton, Simone Levine, Phillip West and Roger Johnson. Ballet Memphis credited esteemed sponsors like ArtsMemphis, Southeastern Asset Management, FedEx and Harrah’s Entertainment
DECEMBER 2008
for another astounding evening of dance and culinary arts.
Barry Flippo and Reece Daugherty
“This really is the premier Halloween party
“Once Upon a Time...Scary Tales” Friends For Life Halloween Party
53
in Memphis,” said Bill Burtch, in braids for the evening. “These people go ALL OUT!” Shaun
YOU NEED GREAT TALENT TO THROW A GREAT PARTY
The 14th annual Halloween party to benefit Friends For Life attracted about 850 souls to the
I=: 9:BEH:NH
Mid-South Fairgrounds. Filled with fake fog and DJ Steve Anne’s tunes, the Creative Arts Building was transformed for the night into a not-to-beOnce missed masquerade ball. This year’s theme, “O Upon a Time...Scary Tales,” inspired a great many costumes from fairy tales (such as a partially-roasted Hansel and Gretel) to the fictitious
Elona Charbonnet and Patricia Split
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Story and photos by Jonathan Devin
Chaiyabhat of WREG-TV, as the Marquis de Sade, said as he shared the criteria he’d be looking for as a judge in the night’s costume contest: creativity, originality and homemade creations. First Bill Burtch and Peter Raccasi
place in the contest was awarded to
Brent Delatte as Cruella De Vil, second place went to Jessica Frey as Aeon Flux, and the third place winner was Connie Tichy as a Retired Hooters’ waitress. The prize for Best Group Costume went to Sandy Kozik, DECEMBER 2008
George Howell, and Jonathan Lewis as Space Queens. Friends For Life provides support to individuals
54 RSVP
infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, with
Happi-Stores adds the Merry to Christmas entertaining
“Butch” with Brent Delatte
services that range from food and transportation assistance to healthcare and healthy SINCE 1995
life skills training. Showing their Halloween spirit were Ken Beasley, Peter Raccasi, Klaytin Wester, Barry Flippo, Reece Daugherty, Amy Spencer, Gloria Dodds, Paul Shea, Ryan Swanson, Patrick Moody, John Scallions, Patrick Moody and John Scallions
Elona Charbonnet, Patricia Split, James
Curry, Peter Lacy, Neil McElroy, Chris Liberto, Wendy Preszler, Tammy Jordan, Buddy Maroon, John Garza, Steve Davis, Marty Acree and Rick Dupont. Story and photos by Kelly Cox
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.
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Music for Mike Arc Ball Urban Fashion Week Little Black Dress Party Vogue & Vintage Reception
M
DECEMBER 2008
Mary and Dr. Scott Morris at Arc Ball
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56 Michelle Alexander and Precious Brown at Arc Ball
usic for Mike attracted music lovers with big hearts to Yosemite Sam’s for a benefit concert. The $10 cover included food, a cancer awareness bracelet and samplings from The Reflections, Tommy Burke & The Counts, Eddie Harrison & the Short Cuts and Interstate 55. Proceeds totaling more than $13,000 will go toward Mike Stoker’s medical expenses as he battles cancer. Harrah’s Entertainment, FedEx and Sam’s Club sponsored the 13th annual Arc Ball at Hilton Memphis. Hoping…B Believing…A Achieving” was the theme of the “H night as guests bid on auction items to raise funds for the Arc of the Mid-South, an organization devoted to aiding people with developmental disabilities. Ben Watson of WMC-TV 5 emceed the fund-raiser, which featured guests speakers Dr. Scott Morris of the Church Health Center and Regina Walker of United Way of the Mid-South. An awards ceremony also took place to highlight advocates for children and adults with disabilities. Fashionistas enjoyed four days of cutting-edge style during Urban Fashion Week (UFW) Memphis. Friday night marked the Designer, Model, Martini PreParty at the Balinese Ballroom, where deejays spun tunes on both floors and guests sipped on signature martinis named after fashion designers. A portion of proceeds from this and other UFW events will help fight HIV and AIDS. Speaking of fashion, Women on the Move members turned heads in their classic black ensembles at the third annual Little Black Dress Party. Executive chef Allen Spivey prepared the eats, and 3D kept the tunes coming at the affair held at the Crescent Club. The professional women’s networking group donated a portion of proceeds to Girls Inc. of Memphis. Dress for Success® Memphis kicked off its annual Upscale Garage Sale with the Vogue & Vintage Reception. Guests gathered at the Tower Room for the silent auction filled with hats donated by Louise Patterson and lots of other trend-worthy finds. Hats off to the organization for raising around $10,000 to prepare job-hopeful females for the work force!
Mary Williams, J.W. Currin and Jacque Cole at Urban Fashion Week
Rep. G.A. Hardaway Sr. and James Davis at Urban Fashion Week
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Leah Fitzpatrick and Roy Haithcock Sherry and Mike Stoker at Music for Mike
Lea Carr, Tran Bui and Margaret Kelly at Little Black Dress Party
Cheryl Shanaghan and Debbie Neal at Little Black Dress Party
Carolyn Bishop, Shirley Kyles, Andrea Kirkwood and Gwenda Hudson at Vogue & Vintage Reception
Louise Patterson and Susan Kyles at Vogue & Vintage Reception
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EVENT
Bone Bash
BONE BASH
A Bewitching Fund-Raising Gala
G
DECEMBER 2008
Madeleine and Metcalfe Crump
Jared Powelson and Veronica Russell
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58
hosts and witches once rounded out the best in Halloween attire, but Bone Bash attendees proved that these tired costumes have long been put to rest. The upper floor of the Balinese Ballroom contained a spectacle of stylishly scary Halloweeners ready to monster mash for the Arthritis Foundation. No corner was left unadorned with spooky décor, beginning with the miniature LED candles lining the stairwell to the festivities. The brick-walled rooms at the top of the stairs immediately transported guests into a fantasy world akin to that in a Tim Burton film. Black lights cast an eerie glow on candlesticks, cobwebs and pumpkins as well as couches covered in white sheets. Orange chandeliers and string lights lent a color contrast to the atmosphere, which was intermittently filled by a smoky haze from a fog machine. Skeletons, positioned regally on two chairs placed before an orange fireplace, ravens and gooey eyeballs completed the spooktacular vibe. As the evening unfolded, so did the plethora of costumes. A lifeguard donning a sunburn and zinc oxide-painted face was on duty, as were Fred Flintstone, Indiana Jones and Jason. Couples costumes made a big showing in the form of Emeril and Paula Deen, Batman and Batgirl and the Spartan cheerleaders. All vied for the top costume honors, but Allyson Coviak, dressed as Sarah Palin, and Trey Brower, disguised as Joe “the Plumber,” swept the costume contest. Timeless couple Scarlett O’Hara (Veronica Russell) and Rhett Butler (Jared Powelson) placed second, and the ultimate redneck duo (Brandie and Stephen Walls) rounded out the third place spot, followed by a whole lot of whistling. Awards aside, guests loosened up on the dance floor to the sounds of Memphis’ own the Jumpin’ Chi Chis. In lieu of “sucking blood,” vampires and their friends opted for River Oaks Restaurant’s delicious eats: ahi tuna, smoked salmon tartlets, mini crab cakes and puff pastry-wrapped Chicken Wellington. Each bite was ghoulishly good, and River Oaks’ staffers made the service memorable by dressing as Frankensteins. Rheumatology and Dermatology Associates contributed as presenting sponsors for the affair, which raised more than $35,000 to combat the country’s number one cause of disability, arthritis. See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
David and Cindy Gambrell
Story by Leah Fitzpatrick Photos by Don Perry
Brandie and Stephen Walls
Jennifer Hobson and Ashley McCurrach
Trey Brower and Allyson Coviak
Nick and Kristi Pesce
Katie and Jonathan Crews with Carlton and Sherrie Evans
Crystal Trautman and John Robinson
EVENT BONE BASH Ben Vaughn, Audrey Stone and Kristina Ward
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RSV PHILLIPPI
By Dennis Phillippi
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING...LESS
DECEMBER 2008
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ne of the best aspects of the economic meltdown, and there have been plenty, has been the unusual restraint shown by retailers as the holiday season approaches. Normally, we can expect to see Santas and reindeer festooning the racks of stores by around, say, August, but this year they seem to have waited until it was actually Christmas time, or at least not Halloween time, to begin the onslaught. This, obviously, was great news for everyone who isn’t the kind of lunatic who buys and displays holiday decorations when it’s still tee shirt weather, and those even lunaticier who do their Christmas shopping so far ahead of time the sweaters go bad before they’re opened. The real effect of October elves is to make those of us who shop like normal people by waiting until the last possible moment before everyone is getting packs of batteries and impulse purchase items at the counters of drug stores feel oddly guilty. Why we should feel delinquent when we’re not buying Christmas presents when it still stays light until eight o’clock is beyond me, but we do. The mountains of catalogues that normally bury our flat surfaces by the first day of autumn also seem less vertiginous. Most years there are columns of glossy magazines teetering on every table, but this year we only seem to be averaging about two or three a day, which in our society qualifies as economic abstinence. Some culprits are as relentless as always. How often does Pottery Barn think we furnish our homes? Haven’t these people been to their grandmother’s house? Most of us buy a couch every, oh, 10 or 15 years or so, and from what I can gather, those stretches get longer and longer when you realize they’ll last practically forever if you cover them in plastic. We get on the mailing list when we buy something at a Pottery Barn, or in most cases I know, a Pottery Barn outlet. That purchase probably isn’t even something substantial like a rug or bureau. It’s more likely a novelty telephone or giant pencil, but then we become hostages to their incessant campaign to sell us furniture that looks like it was brought back from a safari. Looking at all these rich, chocolatey tables, chairs and sofas makes me feel like I should be wearing a pith helmet or washing Meryl Streep’s hair.
Another outfit that hasn’t gotten the e-mail about how we’re all cutting back a little since our 401Ks turned into 201Ks is that Harry & David place. Maybe you’ve gotten one or 11 of their catalogues. While many enjoy candy, popcorn and fruit, most of us don’t want it delivered in amounts that require the use of a hand truck to bring into the house. The fruit of the month club, something ripe for a joke I won’t make here, is a swell idea, but there
If your dog gets to summon you by ringing the doorbell, it’s time to question who is the pet in the equation. comes a point where a case of blood oranges delivered in February just reminds us that we’re not in Florida. Plus, it seems like they’re kind of stepping on the toes of that store at the mall that’s only open about a month a year that sells all those summer sausagelike things and processed cheese food products. Those poor kids are only open during the holidays and now Harry & David, whoever they are, are stealing all those plastic wrapped plastic food dollars for themselves. A big favorite catalogue around our house, despite the fact that we’ve never bought anything out of it, is the SkyMall. That’s the deal you get for free on airplanes that sells everything that has ever been thought of ever. You know, you forgot to bring a magazine on the flight, or you’ve realized only smart people like your wife can do those sudoku things, and you’ve exhausted the 10 minutes an inflight magazine is good for, so you dig out the old SkyMall. You flip through it for an hour easily, then you take it home with you because you can, it’s free. You have to travel a lot to need many of the things available in the SkyMall. Most of us don’t have any use for an overnight bag that can also be an air
mattress. While pants and shirts that can be rolled into a ball, sprayed with lemonade, jumped up and down on by the hotel maid, and still pop out like they were just ironed is a neat idea, they’re designed to make you look like a very well pressed selfrighteous gas bag. All that fake denim and khaki screams, “I’m an American intellectual roughing it to prove something to my junior high aged kids.” There’s also the overindulgent pet owner section. It includes, among other things, the continuously refilling water fountain for your cats. First off, if you’re incapable of carrying a bowl across your kitchen once a day, you probably shouldn’t be allowed to have pets. Second, have you ever seen the reaction a cat has to one of these things? It’s like you’ve just asked it to drive you to the dentist. Cats aren’t the smartest animals around, watch them try to get out of a bathtub sometime, and this humming waterfall doesn’t look appetizing to them. It looks frightening. There are doorbells that sense the presence of dogs. If your dog gets to summon you by ringing the doorbell, it’s time to question who is the pet in the equation. The same is true of the staircase for your small dog to get up onto your bed. If the dog has its own stairs to the bed, it’s the dog’s bed. The thing goes on and on. There are Star Wars and Lord of the Rings products you wouldn’t believe and can’t afford. Do I want a full size Storm Trouper uniform? Of course I do, but I’d also like to pay my property taxes. There are presents to be bought, and some of them from these catalogues. It’s Christmas after all. But at least this year, whether we want to or not, we’re all finally going to take it down a notch or two. Nice going greed-crazed Wall Street. You did something good for once, albeit on accident. Merry Self-restrained Christmas everyone.
RSVP’s satirical columnist, Dennis Phillippi, praises Wall Street this month for bringing him relief from excess mailorder catalogues filled with absurdities. The real question is whether Phillippi will miss being the man who can offer his house guests every variety of processed cheese log this holiday season.
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J
udy (McCreight) Gupton was with her parents and brother visiting a relative in the old Methodist Hospital downtown the same day Elvis, who was on leave from the Army, came to visit his ailing mother. A photographer accompanying Elvis encountered the 10-year-old in the hallway and asked her parents if he could get a photo of Elvis with the little girl. As Elvis admired a pin on Judyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blouse, the photographer captured the uncanny moment. PHOTO COURTESY OF LELAND GUPTON 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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