rsvp magazine january 2009

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CChheeffss'' CCeelleebbrriittyy GGaallaa

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Bar, raised. Bench, marked.

Introducing the new 2009 BMW 3 Series. For years the

3 Series hasn’t just been a car. It’s been the standard by which

all others are judged. And our new model elevates the

bar even higher. Viewed from the side, the car appears even

more dynamic and stretched with a powerful stroke of

horizontal lines. We’ve also widened the front and rear tracks

to improve stability and handling. And for those seeking the

utmost in fuel effi ciency, a new diesel version debuts this year.

In short, the new 3 Series leaves the competition with a lot of

catching up to do.

The UltimateDriving Machine®

BMW 2009The new 3 Series

bmwusa.com1-800-334-4BMW

©2008 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

405 N. Germantown Parkway • Memphis, TN • 910.365.2584(Just North of Walnut Grove Road)

www.roadshowbmw.com

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CONT

ENTS

10SIGNATURE MEMPHIS

Pat Halloran

16 STREETSEEN

Officer Tim Adams

12ENCHANTED FOREST PREVIEW PARTY

Becky and John Childress

20 STREETSEENSarah Cooper

24SIP AROUND THE WORLD

Quinn Powers and Katie Clark

22CHEFS’ CELEBRITY GALA

Patty Donnelly and Judy McGuire

Cover PhotoCasandra and Jack Moriarty

atChefs’ Celebrity Gala

Photo by Leah Fitzpatrick

ContentsJanuary 2009

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Signature Memphis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Pat Halloran

At the helm of the Orpheum Foundation, this Memphian keeps bringing

Broadway’s best to the city’s most historic theatre.

Enchanted Forest Preview Party . . . . . . . . . . . .12Visiting the Enchanted Forest has been a tradition for several decades and is still

going strong as evidenced at the preview party benefiting Le Bonheur Children’s

Medical Center at the Pink Palace Museum.

StreetSeens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 & 20Working with dogs proves advantageous for this officer’s commitment to keeping

the airport safe. This jewelry collector has bragging rights with her personal vintage

costume jewelry collection, but she also has a booth at Sheffield's Antiques with

equally exquisite finds. StreetSeens spotlight Officer Tim Adams and Sarah Cooper.

Chefs’ Celebrity Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Area business professionals took on a new role as celebrity servers for a dinner ben-

efiting the Memphis Child Advocacy Center at Hilton Memphis.

Sip Around the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24The National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee welcomed the masses to its

annual fund-raiser, akin to a wine wonderland, at the Memphis Botanic Garden.

Onsites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 & 33Gatherings that have earned an honorable mention.

RSVPeople . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28A trek across the city’s party landscape.

RSVPhillippi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32The Volunteer State

Dennis Phillippi gears up for a new year filled with niceties. Bah, humbug!

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Volume XIV Number IV

January 2009

P U B L I S H E R

Roy Haithcock

E D I T O R

Leah Fitzpatrick

C O N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R S

Ruth CassinDennis Phillippi Lesley Young

A R T D I R E C T O R

Patrick Akers

P H O T O G R A P H E R S

Roy HaithcockJohn HammerDon Perry

Steve Roberts

S E N I O R A C C O U N T E X E C U T I V E

Toni Anderson

A C C O U N T E X E C U T I V E

Libby Huff

A C C O U N T I N G

Ruth Cassin

RSVP Memphis is published monthly byHaithcock Communications, Inc. First class

subscriptions are available for $50.00 per year.Send name and address with a check to:

Haithcock Communications, Inc.2282 Central AvenueMemphis, TN 38104

For advertising information contactRoy Haithcock

Phone (901) 276-7787, ext. 101Fax (901) 276-7785

e-mail [email protected]

W E B

www.rsvpmagazine.comFor editorial information or to request

coverage of an event, pleasecontact RSVP Magazine

one month prior to the event. Call 901-276-7787, ext. 105 or fax to 901-276-7785.

e-mail [email protected]

Copyright 2009 Haithcock Communications, Inc.

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40 Distinctive Shops & Restaurants

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One recent, excruciatinglycold Saturday morning, Ifound myself on Riverside

Drive bearing the brunt of anearly wakeup call and a non-forgiving wind for theunthinkable: a St. JudeMemphis Half Marathoncheerleader. Ha! I don’t evenknow if you could call me acheerleader, as it seemedmore runners shouted myname than I did theirs.However, I realized thatsometimes just being therematters more to friends andloved ones than anything else. After all, crossing the finishline with no one waiting on the other side can’t be fun foranybody, especially when you factor months of training intothe mix.

Afterward, I questioned whether I could have accom-plished the same feat that thousands of other runners did thatday. The truth is probably a big fat yes, but the reality of con-stantly following healthy eating habits and a strict trainingschedule says otherwise. Someone like me has to find otheroutlets that push physical and mental capabilities to the limit,and I think I’ve found just the fix with this New Year’s resolu-tion thing.

Since resolutions are self-made, they can range fromthe bravest of challenges, like skydiving, to the tamest of con-quests, like enrolling in a cooking or foreign language course.The options are endless, but the execution is where sheerwillpower comes into play. A feasible resolution has to be morefun than work, yet still increase your self worth. Whether youchoose to keep resolutions private, which I’m doing, or makethem public knowledge, remember that no one can hold youaccountable except yourself.

My accountability to you, the RSVP readers, thismonth was to fill an issue with people who exude a specialhappiness as a result of bringing their passions, skills orcareer goals to fruition. Now, it’s your turn to create happi-ness for a memorable 2009.

Leah [email protected]

From the Editor

Photo by Steve Roberts

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Pat HalloranOOrrpphheeuumm FFoouunnddaattiioonn PPrreessiiddeenntt//MMeemmbbeerr ooff TThhee BBrrooaaddwwaayy LLeeaagguuee BBooaarrdd ooff DDiirreeccttoorrss

HHoobbbbyy:: Painting.YYoouurr mmaannttrraa:: Do it today!FFaavvoorriittee aallbbuumm:: Any Dean Martin CD.IIddeeaall vvaaccaattiioonn ssppoott:: Cabo San Lucas.MMoovviiee yyoouu ccoouulldd wwaattcchh oovveerr aanndd oovveerr aaggaaiinn::Gladiator.

WWoorrddss oorr pphhrraasseess yyoouu oovveerruussee:: “To make a longstory short.”

FFiirrsstt jjoobb:: Janitor for my family’s movie theatre inOmaha, Nebraska.

OOnnee tthhiinngg yyoouu ccaann’’tt lliivvee wwiitthhoouutt:: My bestfriend and wife, and our kids.

LLaasstt bbooookk yyoouu’’vvee rreeaadd:: Where Have All TheLeaders Gone by Lee Iacocca.

FFiirrsstt ccoonncceerrtt:: The Broadway play “Mister Roberts,”starring Henry Fonda, in 1951.

PPeerrssoonnaall hheerroo:: Dr. Henry King Stanford, who is aretired president of the University of Miami.

OOnnee tthhiinngg mmoosstt ppeeooppllee ddoonn’’tt kknnooww aabboouutt yyoouu::I have invested in three thoroughbred race horses.

YYoouurr ggrreeaatteesstt aacchhiieevveemmeenntt:: Being part of a groupthat has made The Orpheum what it is today and picking up

two Tony Awards along the way.

HHoobbbbyy:: Painting.YYoouurr mmaannttrraa:: Do it today!FFaavvoorriittee aallbbuumm:: Any Dean Martin CD.IIddeeaall vvaaccaattiioonn ssppoott:: Cabo San Lucas.MMoovviiee yyoouu ccoouulldd wwaattcchh oovveerr aanndd oovveerr aaggaaiinn::Gladiator.

WWoorrddss oorr pphhrraasseess yyoouu oovveerruussee:: “To make a longstory short.”

FFiirrsstt jjoobb:: Janitor for my family’s movie theatre inOmaha, Nebraska.

OOnnee tthhiinngg yyoouu ccaann’’tt lliivvee wwiitthhoouutt:: My bestfriend and wife, and our kids.

LLaasstt bbooookk yyoouu’’vvee rreeaadd:: Where Have All TheLeaders Gone by Lee Iacocca.

FFiirrsstt ccoonncceerrtt:: The Broadway play “Mister Roberts,”starring Henry Fonda, in 1951.

PPeerrssoonnaall hheerroo:: Dr. Henry King Stanford, who is aretired president of the University of Miami.

OOnnee tthhiinngg mmoosstt ppeeooppllee ddoonn’’tt kknnooww aabboouutt yyoouu::I have invested in three thoroughbred race horses.

YYoouurr ggrreeaatteesstt aacchhiieevveemmeenntt:: Being part of a groupthat has made The Orpheum what it is today and picking up

two Tony Awards along the way.

SIGN

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ENCH

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Mallory Barnes, Santa Mike White, Salen White and Candice Young

Todd Weddle and Barbara Jones

Ryan and Erin Butterick

Chris Kauker and Ellen Douglan

Nick Dwyer and Nicole Douglas

Steven and Angela McCarter

Tim and Bridgette Flack

Doug and Candace McGowen

Jennifer and Dale Stover

It was indeed an “Enchanted Evening” as hundreds turned out atthe Pink Palace Museum to be among the first to view the 2008Enchanted Forest and Festival of Trees. Presented by the Mid-

South chapters of TWIGS (Together We Initiate Growth andSharing), the annual event, which raises funds for Le BonheurChildren’s Medical Center, is a treasured Memphis holiday tradition.

Guests were captivated as they admired the dazzling displayof nearly 50 trees lit with more than 30,000 twinkling lights anddesigned and decorated by local businesses, schools, churches andcommunity organizations. Among the spectacular themed trees wereAmeriprise Financial’s “Under the Sea,” the Harley Owners Group’s“The Tree that Keeps on Giving,” and the East Senior Center’s“Memphis BBQ” tree. Upon entering the forest, one could not helpbut be charmed by the animated characters—teddy bears beckoning,elves busy at work and penguins at play in the Penguin Pond—all fea-tured in a magical snowy setting. Local groups also created adelightful Gingerbread Village with dozens of gingerbread houses, incompetition to be the most imaginative of the season. Surroundingthe village was an impressive miniature train display. The “HolidaysAround the World” exhibit highlights the ways in which differentcountries around the world celebrate the holiday season.

A silent auction, featuring such items as the first pitch at aMemphis Redbirds game and team memorabilia, a YMCA familymembership, University of Memphis football tickets and commemo-rative wine glasses hand painted by Le Bonheur Cardiac Kids’ Campattendees, furthered the event’s philanthropic efforts.

Many Memphis restaurateurs, caterers and beverage distribu-tors, including Lu’s Catering, Le Chardonnay, Lucchesi’s Ravioliand Pasta Company, Anne’s Bakery, Half Shell, D. Canale andSpirits at Timber Creek, generously donated plentiful and delicioushors d’oeuvres and libations for partygoers’ enjoyment. Meanwhile,the Gecko Brothers Band, a perennial favorite, entertained the crowdwith ‘70s disco, R&B classics, as well as ‘80s rock and contemporarytop hits.

Erin Duncan, a member of the steering committee for thisyear’s event, said that organizers were “excited that the party hadsuch a great turnout and hoped future efforts will be as successful.”Party proceeds totaled $11,000 thanks to more than 400 guests whoembraced the true Christmas spirit.

Story by Ruth CassinPhotos by John HammerSee all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com

Password: RSVP

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Angela and Tom Bindbeutel

Billie and Dan Work

Josh and Ursula Roman

Latisha Yarbrough and Jim HouchinCourtney and Kevin Stamps

Mark and Debbie Blevins

Shelly and Chris Burr

Erin Duncan and Meridith Vezina

Elise Veazey and Stephanie Twiford

Wendy and Lauren Farrior

Michelle and Jorge Salazar

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Officer Tim AdamsDeterrent and Detector

Most dogs are only regarded as pets, butOfficer Tim Adams and his canine compan-ion, Rex, have a much deeper connection.

That’s because the pair serves in the K-9 unit atthe Memphis International Airport PoliceDepartment.

“Our relationship is basically like a mar-riage because we are together 24 hours, sevendays a week, and I have to make sure we getalong,” Officer Adams says.

Founded in 1990, the airport’s K-9 unitprovides support for patrol and security of theairport to ensure visitors and travelers that nopotential hazards or explosives are present. Mostdogs possessing the skills and stamina neededfor the job are usually German Shepherds fromGermany, however Rex is from Holland. Oncethey arrive stateside, dogs undergo training atthe Department of Defense Military WorkingDog School at Lackland Air Force Base in SanAntonio, Texas, where their drive, scent workand bite work are put to the test. Dogs don’thave to be a certain age to qualify for the unit,rather they are picked based on maturity.

Officer Adams adds, “K-9 dogs are alsotrained to be single purpose dogs, meaningthey’re only used for detection, and not toattack, because we work in an environmentwhere we have people everywhere.”

After a dog is deemed ready for work,officers go to Texas for 10 weeks of training andto be “married” with their canine partner incrime. Handlers then become custodians of thedogs, meaning they are responsible for theircompanion at all times, but the federal govern-ment assumes ownership. K-9 officer require-ments include always being accessible, learningcommands in German, accommodating a caninepartner at home and having a spleen, since a dogbite could result in death for someone lackingthis organ. A handler also trains his dog on adaily basis.

“Your dog is like an Olympian,” OfficerAdams says. “You want them to be the bestbecause we don’t have room for error.”

At a moment’s notice, the team could becalled to search an aircraft for explosives, whichare best detected by dogs because they are onemillion times more sensitive to odors thanhumans. Though Officer Adams confirms that anexplosive has never been found at the airport, hesays if one were to be discovered, a K-9 dogwould show a change in behavior and becomepassive, or sit, to make a handler aware of thehazard. Like any relationship, trust is a big issue.

“We put these dogs through the ringerwith hundreds of hours of training because theyhave to be dependable,” Officer Adams empha-sizes.

Story by Leah FitzpatrickPhoto by Steve Roberts

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Sarah CooperJewelry Enthusiast

By Friday afternoon, Sarah Cooper alreadyknows which estate sales she’ll be hitting upon Saturday. Constantly on the prowl for

unique pieces, she scours Memphis, and any-where she travels, for vintage costume jewelryfrom the 1930s to the 1980s, and asks everyoneshe meets about all things related to her favoritehobby.

A methodical organizer, Cooper can tellyou where any piece of jewelry she owns isstored, which is a feat in itself as she doesn’thave a quantitative figure for her collection. Shesays, “Just in my earring collection alone, I havemore than 300 pairs, but I stopped countingafter 300.” From an Eisenberg Original sterlingand rhinestone pin to a Coro owl duette toBakelite (an attractive plastic used in jewelryfrom the 1920s to the 1940s) bangles, Cooper’scollection is all-inclusive. But she harbors a par-ticular fondness for parures, which are four orfive matching pieces, because she says they arerare.

“If I just find a Weiss pin, for instance, Iget a feeling like there’s a bracelet out there, soI’ll look for it,” she says. “Hunting for a pieceand the anticipation of finding it are tremen-dous!”

Cooper’s husband, who motivated her toturn jewelry collecting into a hobby in the firstplace, helps her stay abreast of vintage costumefinds by going along on jewelry excursions.Cooper acknowledges that he has a good eye forchoice items, and says novices can too if theylearn to acquire pieces for their unusual designs,a designer’s signature, date and quality condi-tion. She also urges people not to be mesmerizedby just rhinestones because there are many otherintriguing vintage finds, from glass crystal beadsto jade pendants. For those seeking more in-depth detail, Cooper encourages people to seekreference books on the subject to learn fun factsabout designers and their respective eras.

“Half the fun of owning a piece is know-ing its history, so you can imagine who mighthave worn it previously,” Cooper says.

Jewelry makes up such a large part of herlife that Cooper buys lots of blazers to displaypins on, wears earrings with a swimsuit and laysout her outfit for the next day the night before topair jewelry with it.

“When I have on a piece of vintage cos-tume jewelry, I feel special because there maynot be another piece like it in the world, and I’mnot likely to run into someone wearing the samething,” she smiles.

Story by Leah FitzpatrickPhoto by Steve Roberts

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Chefs’ Celebrity GalaBenefiting the Memphis Child Advocacy CenterE

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Laurie Holt and Victoria Busey Jessica Murphy and Jeff Mollerup

Renea and Phillip Orr Jennifer and Jimmy Murphy

Winston Wolfe and Valerie Calhoun Darlene Winters and Andy Whiteley

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Jane Ezzell, Gina Tanzer and Janie SimsYendry and Brent Alvord Bill and Anne Russell

See all the party photos atrsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP

With “Tip Me” buttons pinned to servers’ aprons, there wasn’t ashortage of opportunities to throw in some change for theMemphis Child Advocacy Center (CAC) at the Chefs’ Celebrity

Gala. Now in its 19th year, this delectable affair, sponsored by theAmerican Culinary Federation, Greater Memphis Chapter and HiltonMemphis, ranks as the nonprofit’s most successful and longest run-ning fund-raiser.

During the server reception held before the main event, NancyWilliams, executive director of the Memphis CAC, welcomed 100“celebrity” servers to the Hilton Memphis. These servers, who wereVPs, CEOs and representatives from the companies that sponsoredtables, learned about the dishes they would be serving to guests laterin the evening. Williams also announced that this year’s gala was dedi-cated to event chair Carol W. Prentiss’ late husband, Jim Prentiss,who passed away in February. Carol has fulfilled the chairman dutiessince the event’s inception.

Half an hour later, 600 philanthropic supporters gathered fora silent auction and appetizers in the hallway outside of the ballroomdoors, which were soon opened for guests awaiting the five-coursefeast. White cloths draped over their arms, servers graciously present-ed anxious diners with a roasted butternut squash bisque, Champagnekiwi sorbet, Kentucky steak roulade and pistachio-crusted Chinooksalmon, Lorenzo salad and, finally, a butter cake with mango coulisand fresh berries. The Jim Johnson Orchestra and impeccable servicewere the winning accompaniments to the elegant affair.

“We’re trying to battle each other to see who can talk peopleout of the most tips,” server Steve Ehrhart smiled. “All the tips weget go to the Child Advocacy Center, so we’re having a lot of fun.”

Guests also contributed to the cause by purchasing “TeddyBear Surprises,” which were positioned across the ballroom stage. Fora $250, $500 or $1,000 contribution, attendees received a gift certifi-cate enclosed in an envelope attached to a teddy bear. Once theenvelopes were opened, guests oohed and aahed over luxuries likecatered dinners and weekend vacations. Perhaps the best surprise ofall came for the Memphis CAC staff, which is delighted the galahelped bring in $207,000 for an organization devoted to helping chil-dren who are victims of sexual and physical abuse.

Story and photos byLeah Fitzpatrick

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CHEF

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SIP

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ORLD

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T Sip Around the WorldWine Tasting

Brisa Samudio, Mackenzie Fowler, Rob Rutledge and Kristy Street

Hollie Fischer and Mark Harris

Avery Hughes and Mary Ruth Yates

David and Pearl Pollow

Kirby Houston and Michelle Davenport

Dr. Jim and Sharon Brawner

Laurie Betesh and Brian Vallandingham

Scott Hagen and Gina True

Edwin and Susan Smith

Don’t have time for an escape to the world’s most noted vine-yards? Then the annual Sip Around the World Wine Tasting,right here in Memphis’ backyard, provides the next best thing.

With 1,200 vino connoisseurs and novices alike convening at theMemphis Botanic Garden, this 14th-anniversary event raised morethan $60,000 for the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee(NKFWT).

Gazing across a standing-room-only hallway, MableBarringer, the NKFWT executive director, smiled, “This is thelargest crowd we’ve had in several years.”

Athens Distributing Company supplied some 250 wines from100 wineries for the occasion. Stateside wines included those fromCalifornia and Oregon, and that was just the beginning. Argentina,Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and SouthAfrica were also represented at 30 tasting tables stationed through-out the Botanic Garden facility. A few of the more interestinglynamed wines that volunteers poured included Toad Hollow Eye ofthe Toad Rose, Epiphany Gypsy, Paradise Ridge Rockpile Cab andJacuzzi Primitivo.

When not imbibing, guests savored delicious appetizers likesmoked salmon on toast points, various cheeses and strawberrieswith chocolate fondue. Kirk Smothers Trio and Disc Jockeys etc.buzzed with some classic tunes enjoyed by those bidding on silentauction items. Bill Banister of WRVR manned the live auction,which featured luxuries such as an in-home wine tasting extravagan-za for 12 donated by Kirby Wines and a Fleming’s wine dinner forsix donated by Fleming’s Steakhouse.

DaVita was the gold sponsor for Sip Around the World, anevent that pours generous donations toward prevention of kidneyand urinary tract diseases.

Story by Leah FitzpatrickPhotos by Don Perry

See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.comPassword: RSVP

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Jennifer Hendrix, Natalie Dellinger and Lacey Pease

Angie Harris, Paul Hale and Shannon Barnes

George Gill and Elaine FetzerShawnelle and Omar Davis

Jimmy and Ginger MooreAlicia Dean and Kevin Kearn

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Frank and Ashley Clarkat Fall Architects Party

Don Hutson with Elizabeth and Dr. William Novickat Fall Architects Party

ONSITE Onsite

Ruby and Mayor A C Whartonat Association for Women Attorneys Banquet

Denise and Harold Ware with Anne Smithat Victory Ranch Fund-raiser

Bobbie and Bob Eoffat Victory Ranch Fund-raiser

Lucie Brackin and Nicole Manleyat Association for Women Attorneys Banquet

Dancing with the Docs Fall Architects PartyVictory Ranch Fund-raiser Association for Women Attorneys Banquet

Look out Hollywood…here come the docs! This fall,LLee BBoonnhheeuurr CChhiillddrreenn’’ss MMeeddiiccaall CCeenntteerr physicianswaltzed, rumbaed, twirled and twisted at the secondannual DDaanncciinngg wwiitthh tthhee DDooccss fund-raiser with the helpof DDaanncceessmmiitthh’’ss FFrreedd AAssttaaiirree DDaannccee SSttuuddiioo. Nearly 350guests convened at the CCaannnnoonn CCeenntteerr to help raisemoney for the hospital’s CCaarrddiiaacc KKiiddss CCaammpp, a programenjoyed by children with cardiac-related diagnoses.

Memphians were designed to party at the 20thanniversary of the FFaallll AArrcchhiitteeccttss PPaarrttyy held at AAsskkeewwNNiixxoonn FFeerrgguussoonn AArrcchhiitteeccttss. Close to 250 architects,doctors, pilots and partiers came to drink at the cashbar, listen to CChheerrrryy BBrrooookkss aanndd tthhee SSuubbttoonniiccss and tthheeMMeemmpphhiiss SSnnaakkee DDooccttoorrss and mingle at what some callthe party of the year. The IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall CChhiillddrreenn’’ssHHeeaarrtt FFoouunnddaattiioonn, an organization dedicated to helpingchildren with congenital heart defects in developingcountries throughout the world, was the event benefici-ary.

The second annual VViiccttoorryy RRaanncchh FFuunndd--rraaiisseerrpaid tribute to the West with cacti décor, a rodeo trickroper show by BBuurrtt HHaaiirrggrroovvee and music by CCoouunnttrryyGGrraammmmaarr. Held at the PPeeaabbooddyy RRooooffttoopp, the partyoffered cowboys and cowgirls a chance to participate inthe “LLeeaavvee YYoouurr MMaarrkk” campaign, which has roped in$60,000 to date. In exchange for a donation, donors’names will be “branded” on bunk beds, lodges, climb-ing towers or horse stalls at the 500-acre ranch devotedto nondenominational Christian activities and retreats.

The AAssssoocciiaattiioonn ffoorr WWoommeenn AAttttoorrnneeyyss (AWA)BBaannqquueett highlighted the presentation of the MMaarriioonnGGrriiffffiinn--FFrraanncceess LLoorriinngg AAwwaarrdd to RRuubbyy WWhhaarrttoonn for hercontributions to the legal profession. AWA membersand their guests also enjoyed cocktails, dinner and asilent auction, which raised funds to support thegroup’s scholarship fund. During the occasion, severalU of M law students were awarded scholarships, andthe group announced JJeennnniiffeerr HHaaggeerrmmaann as the newAWA president.

Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrickand Lesley Young

Crystal Thomas-Hughey, Beth and Benji Smithand Holly Knight at Dancing with the Docs

Spence and LeAnn Byrum with Lisa and Adrian McCallat Fall Architects Party

Nancy Keys and Victoria Kronenewetter at Dancing with the Docs

Jennifer Hagerman and Shari Myersat Association for Women Attorneys Banquet

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Backstage Ball 3“Red-Carpet Rodeo”

The RRoocckk ‘‘nn’’ SSoouull MMuusseeuumm servedup some country favorites at the BBaacckkssttaaggeeBBaallll 33, aptly titled “RReedd--CCaarrppeett RRooddeeoo.”From vittles to boot scootin’ to wagonwheels, the party held at the FFeeddEExxFFoorruumm’sbackstage offered an assortment of themedmemorabilia and sweet fun, all to preservethe story of Memphis’ music legends.

Upon arrival, country singing sensa-tions, or rather their impersonators, greet-ed attendees. A few familiar faces includedSShheelllleeyy TTrruuaaxx as Reba McEntire, MMaatttt

SSnnyyddeerr as Porter Wagoner, KKeerrrryy SSnnyyddeerr asLoretta Lynn and SShheerrrryy SShhaacckkeellffoorrdd asDolly Parton. A Minnie Pearl look-alike,complete with a straw hat and price tag,even made an appearance. JJoohhnn DDooyyllee, theexecutive director of the Rock ‘n’ SoulMuseum, partook in the spirit by donning abolo tie. Red bandanas were also popularaccessories since they were handed out asparty favors.

Hobnobbing with the “big names”gave way to hearty appetites, and that’s

where NNeeeellyy’’ss BBaarr--BB--CCuuee came in with coun-try-fried sliders, green chili chicken cheddarcornbread (a mouthful in itself), Westernwings and Sock-It-To-Me cake. Re-energized,country cuties and their cowboys headed tothe “Rockin’ Saloon” for a hoedown cour-tesy of JJiimmmmyy DDaavviiss and the RRiivveerrBBlluuffffCCllaann, followed by karaoke for the bravest ofcountry fans. More than 60,000 songs were

available for single and group sing alongs,but popular hits like Gretchen Wilson’s“Redneck Woman” and Garth Brooks’“Friends in Low Places” won out.

Thanks to PPaamm HHeettsseell, director ofprogramming for the Rock ‘n’ SoulMuseum, the theme remained ever-presentthroughout the decor. No corner was leftunadorned, from centerpieces made of

apple baskets topped with guitars and cow-boy hats to a giant horse surrounded by haybales. Silent auction items positioned nearthe entrance also yielded goodies of Westerninfluence.

Some event supporters were LLeeeeRReenneeyy, SSuuzziiee BBoowweenn, AAnnnn PPaaggee, KKaatthhrryynnMMoorreellllii, DDoonnnnaa GGlleennnn, CChhaarrlliiee RRyyaann, DDaavviiddand SSttaacciiee WWaaddddeellll, RRiicckk WWaaiittss, JJuullii

HHuurrddllee, GGrreettcchheenn WWoolllleerrtt MMccLLeennnnoonn, BBrraaddand DDiinnaa MMaarrttiinn and KKeenntt UUnnddeerrwwoooodd.

Look to the Rock ‘n’ Soul staff tobring the city an even more original musi-cal theme at the Backstage Ball 4, as it con-tinues to create an authentic backstageexperience. Rock divas and garage bands

are themes being tossed around, but onenever knows what will unfold during a back-stage after-party…the beauty of anticipation.

Story and photosby Leah Fitzpatrick

WKNO Art and Antiques AuctionPreview Party

Adding to your art collection got awhole lot easier with the 18th anniversaryof the WWKKNNOO AArrtt aanndd AAnnttiiqquueess AAuuccttiioonn.Held on the South Campus of theUUnniivveerrssiittyy ooff MMeemmpphhiiss, this showplace forworks by the area’s most revered artistsproved a popular spot on opening night.

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AAmmyy MMccDDaanniieell, auctionco-coordinator, and BBeecckkyy KKeellllyy,auction manager, spearheadedGGaalllleerryy 1100, which featured morethan 500 pieces of art in a rangeof mediums: ceramics, photogra-phy, sculptures, oils, watercolors,acrylics and pastels, to name afew. Jewelry and coffee tablesrounded out some of the morediverse goods. Mimi Dann, KristenMyers, Janice Albertine, NancyCheairs and Tom Clifton, who alsoserved as a resident art interpreterfor the auction, were a few of the

recognized artists whose workswere on display.

Artist SShheelliiaa DDoonnaallddssoonnhas contributed to the auction inthe past, and this year, she choseto donate a mixed media piecetitled “Courtship for Autumn,”depicting rock people nestled in aswing with leaves surroundingthem. Questioned about her subjects, shesaid, “I learned how to make rockpeople in high school and havealways enjoyed it.” Donaldsoneven carried out her artistic tal-

ents in the hand-made ensembleshe wore to the preview party.

While buyers could choosetheir favorites during the party,bidding actually took place onlineand during live broadcasts held inthe WKNO studio. Young artistswere highlighted in one of the seg-ments, and another special seg-

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ment called “The Collection” included juried works by artistslike Sally Markell, N J Woods, Agnes Stark and Fred Rawlinson.Jin Powell, whose “Ballet Dancer” sculpture was featured on theauction’s promotional flyer, was another juried artist. A recep-tion honoring these artists was held on the day of bidding, andTTeerrii SSuulllliivvaann, the WKNO promotions manager, said she encour-aged people to come see the art firsthand to get a closer look.

Bidders not only took away valuable works, but theyhelped raise around $70,000 to continue WKNO’s commitment

to providing theMid-South withquality publicbroadcasting.Those who sup-ported thecause duringthe auction’spreview partywere BBaarrdd CCoollee,JJuussttiinnWWiilllliinngghhaamm,DDoonnnnaaHHooffffmmaann, DDaavviiddPPrriittzzkkee, GGlloorriiaaHHeeppbbuurrnn,TTaanniikkaa GGrreeeennee,DDoommiinniiqquuee

DDoonnaallddssoonn, AAnnnnaa BBllooww, SStteewwaarrtt HHoorrttoonn, SSaannddrraa MMoorrlleeyy and PPaauulland BBaarrbbaarraa PPrreesslleeyy.

WKNO staff thanks all who contributed to the auctionand for helping make the new WKNO facility, which will be builtthis summer, a reality.

Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick

2008 Freedom Award Ceremony“A Climate of Change”

Some 1,300 people embraced the fight for human rightsby attending the 22000088 FFrreeeeddoomm AAwwaarrdd CCeerreemmoonnyy at the CCooookkCCoonnvveennttiioonn CCeenntteerr. The NNaattiioonnaall CCiivviill RRiigghhttss MMuusseeuumm’s largestannual fund-raiser, the event raked in $600,000, which will gotoward the general operation of the museum, educational pro-gramming and temporary (traveling) exhibits.

The Freedom Award, which began in 1991, honors thosewho have paved the way for current and future human rightsleaders and made noteworthy contributions in civil rights.Dubbed “AA CClliimmaattee ooff CChhaannggee,” this 17th anniversary event hon-ored three out-standing indi-viduals: DDiiaanneeNNaasshh, theNationalFreedom Awardrecipient; AAllGGoorree, theInternationalFreedom Awardrecipient; andBB..BB.. KKiinngg, theLifetimeAchievementAward winner.Each honoree Alex Ertz, Annette Bickers and Curtis Bickers

Stewart Horton and Sandra Morley with Barbara and Paul Presley

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delivered an inspirational acceptance speech,but Nash, who was the official leader of theNashville sit-ins, best summarized the civilrights fight when she said, “Oppressionalways requires the cooperation of theoppressed.”

Nash added, “The only person youcan change is yourself, and that’s what wedid in the South.”

Gore joked that he was amazed heand B.B. could even share the same stagewith Nash. Earlier in the day, all three alsoparticipated in the free public forum at theTemple of Deliverance, visited the NationalCivil Rights Museum and agreed to partici-pate in the museum’s oral history exhibit,“Voices of Freedom.”

Others who participated in the cere-mony included emcees VVaalleerriiee CCaallhhoouunn,EErrnniiee FFrreeeemmaann, TTeerrrraannccee BBaatteess, BBoonnnnyyKKiinnnneeyy, UUrrssuullaa MMaaddddeenn, BBiillll LLuunnnn, MMaarryyBBeetthh CCoonnlleeyy and AAlleexx CCoolleemmaann. PPaassttoorr SSaannddyyWWiillllssoonn of Second Presbyterian Church deliv-ered the invocation. Musical guests FFaaiitthh HHiillll

and OOlleettaa AAddaammss lent their talents through-out the program, which was co-chaired byJJuuddyy CChhrriissttaa CCaatthheeyy and TToonnyy MMccDDuuffffiiee SSrr.Generous sponsorships came from SSttaatteeFFaarrmm for the entertainment, IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaallPPaappeerr for the National Freedom Award, HHyyddeeFFaammiillyy FFoouunnddaattiioonnss for the InternationalAward, FFeeddEExx for the Lifetime AchievementAward and EExxxxoonnMMoobbiill for the video sponsor.

Those enjoying the black-tie affair,which also celebrated the 45th anniversary ofthe day the Lorraine Motel became a nationalshrine, were BBeevveerrllyy RRoobbeerrttssoonn, the National

Civil Rights Museum president, GGwweennHHaarrmmoonn, director of governmental and com-munity affairs for the museum, LLiinnddaa MMoossbbyy,MMaarrkk MMaannddeell, AAlleexx EErrttzz, AAnnnneettttee BBiicckkeerrss,CCuurrttiiss BBiicckkeerrss, AAllmmaa RRoobbeerrttssoonn, KKaarreennBBoooozzeerr, TToonnii BBoollaanndd, PPhhyylllliiss FFaaiirr, JJoohhnnWWiilllliiaammss, EEyybboonnnnee GGlliinnsseeyy, TToomm and CCaarroollyynnWWiilllliiaammss BBeennnneetttt, AAlleexx TTuurrnneerr, PPeettee and

PPeennnnyy AAvviioottttii, JJoohhnn and GGiinnaa JJaacckkssoonn, RRoobbeerrttand LLeenneettttee MMeebbaannee, AAnnggeellaa HHiinnddss, CCaarrlloossand DDeebbbbiiee WWeebbbb, DDrr.. BBeennjjaammiinn HHooookkss,TThhoommaass DDuubboossee, LLeeoonnaarrdd JJaammeess IIIIII, JJoohhnnFFaarraaccii, JJ..RR.. HHyyddee IIIIII and DDaavvee BBrroonncczzeekk.

Story and photos by Leah Fitzpatrick

Germantown Arts Alliance Arts and Humanities Gala

Though it is known for its ability totransport goods around the world, Memphisis not without its artistic talent. To celebratethat talent, each year the GGeerrmmaannttoowwnn AArrttssAAlllliiaannccee awards four medals to outstandingartists from the Mid-South community at itsAArrttss aanndd HHuummaanniittiieess GGaallaa.

Ladies adorned in their finest jewelryand formal gowns were escorted by gentlemen

clad in black tie into the EEssppllaannaaddee to honorthis year’s esteemed winners. Surrounded byfall-themed décor, members and supporters ofthe organization dined on canapés, sipped

cocktails and bid on silent auction items,such as cases of wine and weekend getaways,while awaiting the ceremonious dinner.

This year the organization honoredfour celebrated artists and supporters of thearts, including MMaarrsshhaallll BBoosswweellll, for LiteraryArts; DDiixxiiee CCaarrtteerr, for Performing Arts; theMMeeddnniikkooww FFaammiillyy, for Patronage of the Arts;and EEpphhrraaiimm UUrreevvbbuu, for Visual Arts.

Candidates in the arts are chosenbased on three criteria: those who have madea significant impact in their chosen field;those whose work demonstrates quality, origi-nality and professional execution; and thosewho have made distinctive contributions inthe arts and humanities. Meanwhile, thePatron of the Arts candidates are recognizedfor their outstanding achievements in thesupport of cultural enrichment for theMemphis area. They have shown throughtheir devotion of time, talent and/or financialcommitment that they have promoted,encouraged, stimulated and preserved a cre-ative environment in our area.

A nonprofit advocacy and fundingorganization, the Germantown Arts Alliancehas adopted a mission to promote, enrich

and celebrate the community’s cultural artsenvironment. It was originally established in1987 by city officials as the Germantown ArtsCommission, and in 1992 it became anautonomous nonprofit entity. Through theyears, funding sources for the GermantownArts Alliance have included the CCiittyy ooffGGeerrmmaannttoowwnn, the SShheellbbyy CCoouunnttyyGGoovveerrnnmmeenntt, the TTeennnneesssseeee AArrttssCCoommmmiissssiioonn, corporate business and individ-ual donors, foundations and fund-raisingevents.

Attendees of this year’s gala includedCCllyyddee BBaallllaarrdd, GGaaNNeellllee RRoobbeerrttss, LLiinnddaaSStteepphheennssoonn, PPaatt SSmmiitthh, LLaarrrryy and PPaattSSccrrooggggss, JJeeaann MMaatthheewwss, DDaannnn CCrraawwffoorrdd,JJeerroommee and GGeerraallddiinnee PPaatttteerrssoonn, TTaadd andJJooaann FFoooottee, BBeerrnniiee and JJuuddyy BBrroowwnn, JJuussttiinnSSttrraaffuussss, PPeeyyttoonn EEmmaannuueell, MMaarrsshhaallll BBoosswweellll,RReebbeeccccaa FFiinnllaayyssoonn, DDaavviidd PPaallmmeerr, PPaattMMccCCaalleebb, TTeerreessaa DDuunnllaapp, JJoohhnn and PPaammCCaammppbbeellll and GGeeoorrggee and LLiinnddaa SStteepphheennssoonn.

Story and photos by Lesley Young

Lenette and Robert Mebane with Angela Hinds

Debbie and Carlos Webb

John Williams and Eybonne Glinsey

Jean Mathews and Dann Crawford

Marshall Boswell and Rebecca Finlayson

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By Dennis PhillippiRSVP

HILL

IPPI

THE VOLUNTEER STATEOkay, no pressure here. It’s only the firstissue of the year. It’s only the firstissue of the last year of the decade. It’s

only the issue that happens to hit thestands the same month that a new presi-dent takes office. Oh yeah, and that presi-dent happens to be Barack Obama. So, youknow, no pressure.

Of course, this isn’t a politicalmagazine. Flip back through it. This is amagazine about pretty people in fancyduds. This is a magazine devoted to smil-ing folks with shiny white teeth. We don’ttalk about issues in our issues.

This isn’t about politics; this isabout what might be about to happen.Eight years ago when the last Honcho inChief took office, there was no way to pre-dict what was going to occur. The worldwas a much peachier place, and the idea ofhaving a Big Boss who seemed mostlyinterested in fishing and maybe getting toride in a tank every once in a whileseemed like an okay thing.

Now things are different. Since theyear 2000, a lot of not so good things havehappened, and a lot of people got prettyjaded about the whole thing. There’s an oilcrisis? Let’s get giant cars. People in othercountries are less than thrilled to haveloud Americans banging around theirtourist spots? Vegas baby. You see what Imean.

Politics seemed to be about powerand greed and meanness. We all prettymuch stopped caring.

Then along comes this Obama withhis message of hope and service and beliefin our country and in our selves. Geez,this is going to take a lot of energy. Whenyou’ve gotten completely disengaged andcynical about everything, turning it aroundis like trying to get back in the habit ofgoing to the gym. Sure, you know it’s goodfor you, and maybe even good for thosearound you, but it also means putting insome effort and maybe even sweatingsome. That’s asking a lot.

Not that I’m likely to suddenlybecome some kind of community activist.Isn’t it enough that the wife and I actuallyuse our recycling bin? We do our part. Weget paper instead of plastic. We don’t rundown people on bicycles. We don’t run ameth lab. But it looks like we’re all goingto have to do a little more. And I have

some suggestions about how all of us canwork together to make America a betterplace.

First off, while President Obama isbusy dealing with the energy situation andthe wars and all that, let’s start doingthings that matter right here on theground. Let’s stop wearing fanny packs,unpleasantly tight sweat pants and toomuch perfume. All of that was just the

lady in front of me at the grocery storethis morning. See how much good one per-son could do if she would just try?

Second, let’s stop turning rightfrom the center lane. Let’s stop pullinghalfway into the intersection. Let’s stopdriving close enough to the car in front ofus to form an opinion on the driver’s hair-cut. These are difficult things to change,especially when you’re from Memphis.When Driver’s Ed is an elective, bad habitscome easy.

Third, enough with the ringtones.Fourth, keep your opinions off

your bumper. When we’re idling behindyou while waiting for a train to pass, wecould live without having to see thatyou’re a vegan, or love some breed of dogor that great local band that only has theone fan. If I want to know about you, I’lldo it the old fashioned way, I’ll look atyour MySpace page.

Fifth, knock off the MySpace pagething.

Sixth, let’s agree that our towndoes not stink. A lot of good could be doneif Memphians would all start acting likewe live in a beautiful, tree-sheltered slice

of paradise and stop complaining aboutour city like we somehow accidentallymoved to Calcutta. If you think Memphisis so terrible, please do one of two things,either move somewhere else or visit some-where else. If you visit pretty much anyother American city, you’re going to findthat their problems are the same as ourproblems, and they don’t even have one ofthe world’s greatest rivers within easy driv-ing distance. Other cities have downtownareas that are bullet-ridden wastelands. Wedon’t. Okay, we don’t anymore. Where weonce had a terrifying adventure of a down-town, we now have restaurants and storesand that sweet, sweet ballpark. Granted, itcame with the unexpected addition oftourists bumbling in front of our carsbecause they think that all of downtown isblocked off like Beale Street, but that’s asmall price to pay.

Having said all of that, here’s thebiggest thing; let’s all try to care again.For a lot of us, that’s not going to be asimple thing. We have gotten used towatching too much television, surfing theInterweb, listening to downloaded musicand stopped thinking about what’s hap-pening outside of our walls. If millions ofyoung people can put forth the effort toget a man elected who couldn’t even havevoted for himself not too awfully long ago,maybe it’s time for the rest of us to pitchin. Maybe we’re not all going to suddenlyget up early to work at soup kitchens, butwe can sure donate to food drives. Not alot of us are going to start spending timewith the elderly if we don’t have to, butlet’s be better about seeing the ones we do.

This isn’t a magazine about poli-tics, and this isn’t a column about politics.This is just a column saying that maybeit’s time we all do the hokiest thing of allto start the New Year, maybe it’s time forus to have hope.

The new year marks a new beginning forRSVP wisecracker Dennis Phillippi. Notonly is our dear satirist embarking on ajourney to do the greater good, he’s urgingothers to give up their freedom outlets,like MySpace, in hopes that people willopen their eyes to what’s happeningaround them. Though asking people togive up their fanny packs might be going alittle too far.

When Driver’sEd is an elec-tive, bad habitscome easy.

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Janice and Jimmy Reedat Tool Box Bash

Nelson and Jennifer Burfordat Tool Box Bash

ONSITEOnsite

Joey and Lisa Sulipeckat Tool Box Bash

Della and Dag Perkinsat Tool Box Bash

Catherine and Brian Chappellat Tool Box Bash

P.W. Burnett and Jessica Frenchat Tool Box Bash

TOOL BOX BASH

Guests took to heart the “BBee SSeeeenn oonn tthhee GGrreeeennSScceennee” theme of the evening for the HHaabbiittaatt ffoorrHHuummaanniittyy ooff GGrreeaatteerr MMeemmpphhiiss’’ TTooooll BBooxx BBaasshh atHHiillttoonn MMeemmpphhiiss by donning “snazzy, jazzy and green”attire to celebrate the cause of providing quality hous-ing for lower income families. The Memphis affiliatemarked its 25th year with this signature event.

Fox Channel 13 meteorologist JJooeeyy SSuulliippeecckkserved as master of ceremonies for the evening present-ed by sponsor GGEE CCoommmmeerrcciiaall AAvviiaattiioonn SSeerrvviicceess. WWiinneeMMaarrkkeett, a project manager sponsor, presented the winetasting held throughout the festivities.

As patrons mingled and perused goodies up forbid, they enjoyed sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and jazztunes performed by the TToomm LLoonnaarrddoo TTrriioo. Silent auc-tion donations ranged from whimsical hand-paintedplanters crafted by CCoolllliieerrvviillllee HHiigghh SScchhooooll aarrtt ssttuuddeennttssto Viking Cooking School lessons, given by CCeennwwooooddAApppplliiaanncceess. Highlights of the live auction included aRoy Orbison Gibson guitar contributed by TThhee GGiibbssoonnFFoouunnddaattiioonn; two round-trip tickets to Waikiki and afour-night stay at the Doubletree Alana provided byNNoorrtthhwweesstt AAiirrlliinneess and HHiillttoonn HHootteellss; and a two-nightstay in deluxe accommodations at The Peabody hotelwith a bottle of Bogle Petite Sirah and dinner for two atChez Phillipe furnished by TThhee PPeeaabbooddyy and WineMarket. MMeeddnniikkooww displayed jewelry by Rebecca, withpartial sale proceeds going toward Habitat.

JJeeffff CCaappppss, Habitat’s director of communityrelations, said the organization “could not be morepleased that so many Habitat supporters were gatheredin one place.” He added that the event brought in arecord-breaking $23,000. What a terrific way to cele-brate 25 years of service!

Story by Ruth CassinPhotos by Roy Haithcock

Neta and Keith Wildat Tool Box Bash

Molly Medlin with Nicole and Rip Haneyat Tool Box Bash

Brett and Leslie Smithat Tool Box Bash

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A Rite of PassageRSVP

AST

1959

Miss Hutchison’s School for Girls Kindergarten Class of 1959 celebrated its end-of-the-yearachievement at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. At the graduation ceremony, the kindergarten-

ers, who were the flower girls for the Senior Class, walked down the aisle with their respectiveSenior. Mary Estes Montedonico, pictured with Della Kay Ellis above right, was the Seniorassigned to Ellis for the 1958-1959 school year. The following year there was a shortage ofkindergarteners for Seniors, and with Ellis being one of the shortest students, she had the privi-lege of being assigned a flower girl role in the first grade as well.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DELLA ELLIS

If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Leah Fitzpatrick at 276-7787 ext. 105or e-mail the photo and caption to [email protected]

All photos will be returned promptly.Blossom: on view at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens

January 25 – March 22, 2009

Nationally sponsored by The Susan K. Black Foundation

4339 Park AvenueMemphis, Tennessee 38117901.761.5250 | www.dixon.org

Art of Flowers Elizabeth von Isser, Oro Valley, AZ, Shadow Play. Acrylic on canvas, 30”x20,” Gold Poppy.

rsvp magazine january 2009

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