A HOME BUILT BY FAMILY FOR FAMILY MAKE A SPLASH!
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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2018
30|HOME: Walker Uhlhorn, of the Uhlhorn Brother’s Builders, creates his family a home for the long haul
40|DESIGN: Michael Christie, of Christie Cut Stone Company, shares tips to help you make the most of your corner of the great outdoors.
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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2018
52. F O R YO U 16
healthy you Top 10 Ways to Be healthy and Live Well
48.
84.
98 on a good note RedZone Ministries
HOME & DESIGN 26 at home with Jim Norton 30 home feature On the Move 40 design The Great Outdoors: Outdoor Living 48 in the garden Zinnias to the Rescue
T R AV E L & C U L T U R E 52
60.
getaway The Way Life Should Be - Autumn in Maine
60 travel The Thing About Golf Trips 70 experience this Go Ape! USA 74 social Mid South Happenings 78 wedding Varner/Macaskill
FOOD & DRINK 82 entertaining Sophia's Candy Land 90 dining out Milk Dessert Bar 92 happy hour The Fountain of Youth 94 in the kitchen King Ranch Chicken 10 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
IN EVERY ISSUE 14 | PUBLISHER'S NOTE 97 | SOURCES
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SEPTEMBER 2018 • VOL. 17 NO. 6 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com
ART DIRECTOR ANNA HALEY | aleppert@athomemms.com
EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION MANAGER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com
MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com
COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER
INTERN HILLARY CLAIRE HANCOCK
IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com
ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MEGAN EIDT | meidt@gmail.com BRITTANY MCDONALD | brmcdonald45@gmail.com GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com
BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com
MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com
HOW TO REACH US 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11 | Cordova, TN 38018 901.684.4155 | FAX 901.684.4156 WEBSITE: athomemms.com
At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.
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publisher’s note Welcome to fall, well, almost, and our September issue. This month truly marks the start of my favorite season. The humidity is on the decline and football has returned, making both me and my hair happy. Like the home feature this month, AT HOME is experiencing its own “keeping it in the family” theme. We welcome Aubrey Ann Monger, my daughter-in-law, as our new Managing Editor. Who would have thought when I took the publishing plunge 18 years ago this month, that my husband and I would end up purchasing the magazine and later bringing our son’s wife on board? To broaden our family ties a bit more, next month our daughter, Callie, will be writing the Travel feature! We truly are family At Home. When this magazine began production in September 2001, I was asked to join the effort. The publisher was a very special man who, for some reason, thought I would be an asset to his team and he wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. That man was John K. Lawo, who left us August 9 and will be greatly missed. It goes without saying that I would not be here without him. I would like to dedicate this September issue to John. I will have to say that makes me a bit nervous because although he is in heaven, there is no doubt he will be reading this issue, cover to cover, pointing out to me in some way where it could be improved. I say this with all due respect and admiration, as he was a very special man and there is no doubt I would not be able to share with our readers all the beautiful things Memphis and the Mid South have to offer every month without his guidance. Thank you, John, for your love of the publishing business, your trust in me and your friendship. It is truly because of John that I am here today and you are able to enjoy AT HOME in your home every month.
— Margaret
Publisher
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healthy you
Top 10 Ways to Be Healthy and
Text by Michelle Johns
Live Well
1 Set SMART goals. SMART is a commonly used acronym in the health and wellness world to guide individuals in living well. S – Be specific in what you are trying to achieve. For example, your goal may be to eat more fruit or vegetables, to give yourself more space in your personal life or to move more. M – Measure your progress. Journaling is a great way to do this. Designate a journal specifically for the goal or goals you are achieving. I buy small, inexpensive notebooks in three-packs. Currently, I have one titled “spiritual growth” and one titled “physical activity.” In the spiritual growth journal I keep track of time spent in prayer, God’s word and meditation. The physical activity journal is for me to keep track of the types of physical activity I do each day, what worked and how much time I spent in the activity. A – Achievable goals bring the most success and make it easier to move the mark and continue growth. Don’t try to be an overachiever; just set goals you know you can manage. For example, if you haven’t exercised in years or ever, try starting with a goal of walking for 10 minutes each day. R – Realistic goals are best, as well. Make sure you can actually work the goal you set for yourself. A goal of losing 50 pounds in 30 days may be unrealistic. Instead, work with your physician to set a realistic goal based on your needs and your ability. T – Time...consider how much of it in your schedule you have to commit to achieving your goals. Perhaps you have only times a week when you can set aside a block of time for meditation and spiritual growth. Schedule time you know you can actually commit to to help you reach your goal. 2 Breathe – Breathing is proven to be one of the best techniques for relieving anxiety and tension. It works! Placing your hands on your torso while you are breathing is a nice touch, literally. It is great to feel the energy from your own body and to sit quietly for just a minute as you feel your breath enter and exit your body. 3 Eat Well – Every day, eat at least two meals that serve your body nutritionally. Eating well helps you maintain a healthy weight and improves overall body functions. For example, fiber is good for the colon; fruits and vegetables promote good eyesight and brain functioning. 16 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
healthy you 4 Fast – Give your body a break from food. A 13- to 16-hour fast each day helps kill damaged cells and promotes use of good, healthy cells in the body. 5 Sleep – The average person needs seven to nine hours of sleep each day. Proper sleep makes a world of difference in your day. It promotes good emotional state and healthy brain functioning, and provides the body energy. 6 Move – Try to find a minimum of 10 minutes each day to accelerate your heart rate. (Make sure you are healthy enough to participate in activity that increases the heart rate.) Increasing your heart rate improves the flow of oxygen in the body, makes the heart stronger and builds stamina. Try walking stairs, walking quickly, jogging, etc. 7 Water – Drink it! Water hydrates the body and helps digestion. Try to drink at least four to six cups of water each day. 8 Socialize – Spend time with family and friends who make you feel good and enjoy life at least twice a week. 9 Laugh – Every day, find something to laugh about. Read or watch something funny. Laugh with friends and family. 10 Clean Up – Make yourself a nice place to be. What needs to be cleaned up? Brush your teeth, your skin and your hair. Wear clean clothes. Tidy up your living and working spaces. Declutter. These tips are not foolproof, but they have been shown to improve quality of life. It’s important to remember, though, that we all fall short at times in being our best and achieving our goals. Be gracious with yourself, but don’t give up. Never give up. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 17
spotlight
Church Health Right now, people all over Memphis and Shelby County are in need of healthcare. They work hard, but they may not have access to an employersponsored health plan, or they may be ineligible or priced out of coverage through government health programs such as TennCare or ACA Marketplace plans. Oftentimes, they have to choose between paying for a doctor visit or paying for groceries. They may live in fear and pain. But since 1987, Church Health has given them hope and comfort.
WHO WE ARE Church Health is a charitably-funded, faith-based organization located in Memphis, Tennessee, that provides comprehensive healthcare and health services to individuals with little or no access to affordable healthcare. In the last year alone, Church Health encountered more than 50,000 patient visits and extended training, education and outreach to countless individuals and organizations. With the generous support of volunteer providers, donors and community partners, Church Health works tirelessly to improve health and well-being so that people can experience the full richness of life. The Model for Healthy Living serves as the cornerstone of care and outreach. Joy or pain of any kind inevitably affects overall health and well-being. A balanced, healthy life encompasses faith, movement, work, emotions, nutrition, friends and family, as well as medical care. Recognizing the relationships between all these parts of our lives, the Model reflects the realities of our everyday lives—families, jobs, schedules—and reminds us of areas we may neglect. In Spring 2017, Church Health moved operations from 13 separate facilities and consolidated services under one roof at Crosstown Concourse. “THE BEST CARE I’VE EVER RECEIVED” Church Health delivers patient-centered primary and specialty healthcare to working uninsured people and their families. With a full support line that also includes dental, eye care, behavioral health support, physical therapy and even nutrition services, patients are treated with compassion and dignity. Arn Vertrea, an artist living in Memphis, credits Church Health with saving his life. When his doctor found a baseball-sized tumor on his kidney ten years ago, he received treatment through Church Health’s health coverage program for self-employed people. Known as the MEMPHIS Plan, the program relies on a robust network of volunteer primary- and specialty-care providers in Memphis and serves small businesses based in Tennessee. “You only have a 60 percent chance of surviving renal cancer, but I beat it,” says Vertrea. Three years ago, after a CT scan examining a quarter-sized cyst on his lung revealed multiple tumors over his lungs, Vertrea again relied on the care he received through Church Health to save his life. “I’m alive today because of Church Health,” he says. Early this year, Vertrea was diagnosed with stage 4 bone cancer. Despite everything he’s experienced over the years, his attitude is hopeful and upbeat. “When I stop and think about it, I am a very fortunate fellow in that God has allowed me to get to know him better and in ways that I wouldn’t have known him without having gone through this prolonged illness. Nothing is wasted or unimportant.” HOW YOU CAN HELP A donation to Church Health helps someone see a doctor, manage diabetes, recover from a fall, overcome addiction, return to work, care for their family, reclaim hope. And smile. Gifts of all sizes add up to make a big impact. No matter how you choose to give, donations keep this vital Memphis organization in operation and serving more patients each year. Do you know someone who is working but lacks healthcare? Refer them to ChurchHealth.org. To make a gift to Church Health, call 901-272-7170 or log on to ChurchHealth.org/donate. 18 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
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home trends
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at home with
At Home With
Jim Norton Text by Ginni Jones Photography by Darren Lykes
We are excited to announce our latest addition to the At Home Memphis & Mid South team, Jim Norton. Jim will be taking over our “In the Kitchen” feature each month, sharing great recipes and tips that we are excited for our readers to enjoy. After chatting with Jim, we think he is wonderful and we know you will, too! Read below for a bit more about how Jim got started…
Q&A At Home Memphis & Mid South: Tell us a little about your background, both personally and professionally. Jim Norton: That’s a loaded question, LOL! I was born and raised in Sonoma County, which is in the heart of Northern California’s wine country. At 20, I packed everything I owned, which was nothing more than my clothes and a boombox, into my 1986 Camaro and moved to Nashville to be a “big country music star.” I didn’t know a soul in Tennessee! I ended up in a one-bedroom apartment in a pretty bad area of town, sleeping on a 99-cent blow-up mattress from Walmart. I was young and I was chasing a dream. I pretty quickly learned a career in country music was not likely, but I was always happy with my decision to move to Tennessee. At 26, I met my partner of 18 years, Robert. Together we started a wholesale art business, have retail space offering home decor items, and we have completed interior design jobs from Greenwich, Connecticut to St. Croix. I have always loved being in the kitchen and having family and friends around my dining table. Over the years, we have hosted hundreds of dinner parties in our home and it was just over a year ago that I realized, “Hey, I might have something here.” I started my Facebook page, “The Norton Recipe,” and things have just kind of taken off from there. Not long ago I was asked to be one of only eight cooks/chefs across the South to participate in a new coffee-table book due out in the spring of 2019. I have a weekly cooking segment on an ABC affiliate (WBBJ) which airs every Monday, I am working with a publicist from Los Angeles, and was just recently asked to take over the “In The Kitchen” section of At Home Memphis & Mid South magazine. I am really excited to see what the future holds for me. 26 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
AHMMS: What inspires you? JN: Oh gosh, so many things! The people in my life inspire me. I want to succeed and be the best I can be for those that I love. I am inspired by other cooks and chefs; they inspire me to create delicious recipes of my own. I am inspired by interior design, and the way that makes me really look at my dining table as a blank canvas and a place to create something magical for my guests to enjoy. AHMMS: What’s your favorite thing about your job? JN: Oh, that’s easy… it’s the people I get to serve! To be in the kitchen and take a variety of ingredients and create one amazing dish is so gratifying. But the icing on the cake (no pun intended) is to watch someone eat your food and know by the look on their face that they are enjoying every single second of it. Being able to help people become better cooks and teach them about entertaining at home is priceless. AHMMS: What advice would you give to people who want to succeed in their dreams? JN: Don’t stop dreaming! You have to be realistic, but also optimistic. I am 44 and my “career dreams and goals” are just now an arm’s length away! AHMMS: What do you like to do when you aren’t working? JN: Ummm...shop! Hello?!? I’m a pro! AHMMS: What are your favorite places in the Mid South? JN: The Mid South has so many things to offer! The Orpheum, the Brooks Museum, the Dixon and so many amazing restaurants in Memphis. In Jackson we have a revitalized downtown with an amazing farmers market and a great outdoor music venue called the Amp. There is never a shortage of great things to do in the Mid South.
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home feature
ON THE MOVE: Text by Jordana White | Photography by Steve Roberts 30 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
After seven relocations, one of the Uhlhorn brothers builds his family a home for the long haul.
home feature
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home feature
W
alker and George Uhlhorn know a lot about houses. After all, homebuilding has been their family's business for a century! It all started with their great-grandfather, who was one of the earliest builders in Memphis, and it continued from there. As George explains, “My father raised us in the business, and he’s been building for 37 years. We love building homes! It’s in our blood.” In their blood or not, building expertise has not always added up to staying in one spot for long. For Walker, half of the Uhlhorn Brothers team, settling down in one place has been a bit of a struggle. Walker admits to always being on the move. Together with his wife and four young children, ages seven, six, three and almost two, he has moved seven times in the last nine years. If that sounds unconventional, rest assured, Walker agrees: “It's not like we enjoy moving,” he says, “we’ve just been presented with great opportunities.” Case in point: Walker’s current residence, situated high atop a hill overlooking Galloway Golf Course in Memphis. For years, the brothers had watched the lot as it sat empty. It belonged to an individual who planned on building his dream home on the site…but never did. When the time was right, Uhlhorn Brothers bought the property to keep in inventory. It was such a special lot they wanted to patient with planning to ensure a perfect fit for it. So began yet another move in the seemingly endless progression for the family. As soon as Walker realized he’d be building on the Galloway lot for his personal use, brother George let him take it from there. Although George says he and his brother “have a great relationship,” it seemed wiser to let this build be his sibling’s alone.
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home feature
Walker contacted Doug Enoch of T Douglas Enoch Architects & Associates. “He came and took a look at the lot,” Walker says, “and he got excited about designing something that would fit the spot perfectly.” Given the property’s enviable location—as Walker explains, “I think it's one of the best views in the city”—the family sought to take advantage of the natural surroundings. “We wanted walls of glass and a cozy front-yard screen porch, plus plenty of terraces overlooking the golf course that we could use when entertaining.” With that directive, Enoch came up with a perfect plan. According to the architect, “Windows are the personality of the house,” so he designed a 6,200-square-foot, white brick, English-style manor, replete with large walls of floor-to-ceiling windows. To offset this extremely modern design feature he incorporated rustic touches like exposed beams and five-inch oak plank flooring throughout much of the home. In the kitchen, the “rustic modern” element once again came into play, as gray marble countertops and traditional white cabinetry counterbalanced sleek GE Monogram stainless steel appliances. A similar mix came to be in one of the many screenedin porches, where cedar walls and a white brick fireplace came head-to-head with ultra-modern scored concrete flooring, a design choice that was repeated in Walker’s home office.
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home feature
With the bones in place, Walker called in Uhlhorn Brothers’ decorator, Leigh Dill, to help make the house feel like home. “Leigh is amazing”, Walker says. “Even when I think I know the proper use for a space, she surpasses all expectations with awesome ideas!” Using a medley of modern and rustic furniture and a mostly neutral palette with occasional pops of color, Dill got the basics all set up. Then it was time for some extra special details. Of course, any home with four residents under the age of eight requires a functional and utilitarian mud room, but with a little ingenuity, even that space became elevated. “Whenever George and I do a remodeling project, we love finding a way to repurpose some of the period pieces in the original home,” Walker explains. “We'd recently done some work on a Midtown home from the early 1900s, and we saved some of the exterior shutters.”
34 | At Home Memphis Mid South September 2018Whitney Winkler. The commissioned Art&above Ivy's•bed, is by Artist
home feature
“Even when I think I know the proper use for a space, she surpasses all expectations with awesome ideas!”
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home feature
So, as the eight-month process of building his own home came to a close, those shutters found a place of pride on the mud room wall, perfectly uniting Walker’s personal and professional passions in one simple hanging. Both the Uhlhorn brothers consider building large custom homes a science, a calling and an art. Still, Walker admits, doing it for his own family will always be something special.
To Phares, this dichotomy is the ultimate mark of success. “There is no shock factor in the home,” she says with pride. “Everything is carefully edited. Nothing is contrived or over designed. That is a reflection of my clients knowing just where to stop. They were great in recognizing balance in design.” 36 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
home feature
“Building for yourself just takes you out of that business mindset.” “You’re not building it for a living, but to suit your family’s needs. It’s just deeply personal.”
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design
THE
GREAT
OUTDOORS:
How to Up the Ante on Outdoor Living Spaces 40 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
design
Outdoor living areas have become major selling points in homes across the country and especially here in the Mid South, where the weather allows for longer stretches of al fresco enjoyment. From patios and fire pits to swimming pools and outdoor kitchens, options abound to fit any property and budget. To help make sure your home’s outdoor area is up to snuff, At Home Memphis & Mid South sat down with Christie Cut Stone’s Michael Christie. He shared tips to help you make the most of your corner of the great outdoors. Text by Cara Seivers | Photos courtesy of Michael Christie September 2018 • athomemms.com | 41
design
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home trends At Home Memphis & Mid South: Your family has owned and operated Christie Cut Stone for over 100 years—that’s a rich history! How has the company changed over the years to stay relevant?
El Cosmico
Michael Christie: For us, staying relevant is all about staying in tune with the constant changes of our industry. These changes can come in the form of styles, patterns, sizes or colors. Dealing with natural stone and brick, along with fabricating architectural limestone, has helped us stay ahead of trends; being flexible and capable of making those changes is also key. Having strong relationships with so many suppliers has allowed us to make necessary changes and provide our customers with the most in-demand options of the current times.
AHMMS: What are some of the most popular requests for outdoor living spaces these days? MC: As far as popularity, outdoor fireplaces are really big right now. Our clients like to see them tied into a nice covered patio, complete with a built-in kitchen and all the outdoor appliances. This still seems to be our most desired outdoor living request. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 43
design
AHMMS: What trends are you seeing more of right now, both in pool design and in general outdoor living? MC: Pool designs seem to stay fairly consistent in our region. Our company works with several different pool contractors, each of whom designs in a different style. Some are known for lagoon-style pools, an option that provides clients with a more free-form shape that also allows for boulders and waterfalls. Others tend toward clean lines and take a more formal approach to pool design. Regardless of the shape our clients prefer, we offer a wide range of materials that are suited to fit both designs, from limestone coping to broken flagstone, an option that is suitable for the increasingly popular beach-style entry.
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Photographer: Persuasion Photography
design AHMMS: Which materials are clients leaning towards for pool decks? MC: The materials used really depend on the pool project budget. I like to think everybody prefers stone coping with a stone pool deck, but that can get expensive. That’s why a good designer can come in handy. A seasoned expert can suggest more budget-friendly materials, like stone bands and accents, that can help reduce the cost of a project without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal. AHMMS: What’s the best way to tie outdoor projects into the main home’s exterior? MC: Outdoor living spaces should always be an extension of the home. With that being said, keeping complementary colors and styles, or even using the same building materials as your home’s facade are great ways to tie everything together.
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getaway
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in the garden
Zinnias to the Rescue!
Text by P. Allen Smith Photography by Kelly Quinn, Donna Evans and Jason Masters
As September has rolled around, we continue to plod through the dog days of summer. If your garden is anything like mine, it’s showing a little wear and tear, responding to the extreme summer heat and drought. The bloom is off my roses, literally, and most other flowers in the garden are a little crispy around the edges. Everything, that is, except the zinnias. Zinnias are among those rare flowers that not only laugh in the face of heat and drought, but also put on such a colorful, glorious display, the rest of your summer garden will be embarrassed. Their large, petaled faces come in all shades of pink, yellow, orange, red and purple, making a garden full of them look like it’s loaded with large, colorful lollipops. And the pigments are so rich and clear—exactly what the eye is searching for on a sweltering late summer day. This bold annual has been in cultivation for hundreds of years and originates in the southwestern United States, Mexico and Central America, which explains why it’s such a great performer in hot, sunny locations in the garden. Flowers last for such a long time in pristine condition that zinnias are sometimes known by the common name “Youth and Old Age.” Gardeners have a great sense of humor, don’t we? Look around and you’re likely to see zinnias everywhere in a garden, starting at the front of a bed at six inches tall, all the way to the back, standing at a stately four feet, and everywhere in between. And butterflies? Zinnias attract butterflies like moths to a flame. Regardless of which form the zinnia flower comes in, from singles, doubles and ruffles to dahlia and cactus forms and small pompoms, they make perfect landing pads for monarchs, swallowtails and other butterflies. This nectar-rich jewel is a must-have for all butterfly gardens. You can start zinnias by seed indoors four to six weeks before the last average frost date for your zone, or wait and sow them directly in the garden when the weather warms. It’s an incredibly easy plant to grow from seed, great for children and beginning gardeners. I’ve even had zinnias sow themselves from seed that appeared on stems from the previous year. I plant zinniaFountain seed directly in the soil successively every two weeks in patches at Moss Mountain Farm (Zone 8a) as late as August; Forsyth always ensuring plenty of blooms in early fall and through October. 48 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
in getaway the garden The only disease issues to keep an eye out for are leaf spot and powdery mildew. The main culprits are too much water, high humidity and poor air circulation. During the height of summer, water at the base of the plants so that leaves remain dry, and let them dry out between waterings. Pick up and discard brown, fallen leaves, and space plants so that there’s enough room for good air circulation. If necessary, treat affected plants with a fungicide such as neem oil. But honestly, I think the zinnia’s overwhelming flower power is enough to overcome any spots or blemishes you might encounter. Some of my favorite zinnia varieties include: Zinnia elegans 'Cut and Come Again' — These three-foot-tall double flowers feature blooms about 2 ½ inches wide. As you might guess, they make great cutting flowers, producing new flower buds throughout the growing season. Zinnia elegans 'State Fair' — The classic zinnia and my gold standard variety. Plants reach about 2 ½ feet tall, and flower heads are an amazing five to six inches across. You can see these blooms from a mile away. Zinnia elegans 'Benary’s Giant' — The go-to zinnia for the cut flower industry, 'Benary’s Giant' has luscious, dahlia-type flower heads and extra sturdy stems. Plants reach about three feet tall, with blooms five inches wide. Zinnia elegans 'Magellan' — Considered a dwarf variety, 'Magellan' reaches 12-14 inches tall, with double flowers. This variety has a tidy, uniform growth habit, so is perfect in containers and window boxes. Zinnia elegans 'Thumbelina' — A true dwarf at only four to six inches tall, 'Thumbelina' is a great selection for the front of the border or as part of a container planting display. Zinnia marylandica 'Profusion' — Exceptional disease resistance and a compact, uniform habit make this another really popular variety. Plants reach about 18 inches tall and can spread to about 18 inches wide. These qualities make it a great selection for garden planting en masse. Zinnia angustifolia — Also known as creeping zinnia, this plant features narrow leaves and is often used at the front of the border, reaching about 12 inches tall. Z. angustifolia is even more robust than Z. elegans, so you’ll often see it in mass plantings. This is just a small sampling of the many zinnias available, and new varieties are introduced every year. Just let some of the names entice you: Whirligig Mix, Peppermint Stick, Red Spider, Queen Lime with Blotch, Persian Carpet and Raggedy Ann. My fingers are twitching for a seed catalog, and I hope yours are, too.
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home trends
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getaway
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getaway
“The Way Life Should Be”
An Autumnal Maine Getaway Text and Photography by Alice Fugate
French Quarter
Here in the South, it’s hard to believe the fall equinox comes in September as the temperatures beg to differ, but it’s a different story Down East. Advertised with slogans including “Vacationland” and “The Way Life Should Be,” Maine promises a crisp, colorful autumn unlike any you’ve experienced close to home. Here’s a quick guide to a few places you must visit for a long weekend. 52 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
Portland You’ll most likely fly into the Portland airport, and the town is well worth a visit. This artsy little port city is easy to navigate and full of local flavor. The best donut I’ve ever had was at The Holy Donut, where the large, moist pastries include a “secret” ingredient: mashed potatoes. Sounds odd, but they’re simply delectable. Try the maple glaze and sea salt chocolate. And what’s Maine without a lighthouse? The nearby Portland Head Light was first lit in January 1791 and sits adjacent to Fort Williams Park, which features lovely walking trails. Becky’s Diner, a breakfast, lunch and dinner joint open from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. FridaySaturday) was deemed good enough to be featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. If you want more of Portland, stay downtown at the Danforth Inn, a boutique hotel established in 1823.
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getaway
Freeport Shoppers, look no further than Freeport, Maine. Just half an hour outside of Portland, this town is filled with outlet stores including J. Crew, The North Face, Patagonia, Toad & Company, NIKE, and, of course, L.L. Bean. Freeport is the home of the expansive L. L. Bean flagship store, featuring the world’s largest Bean boot. The outfitter’s campus is comprised of multiple buildings that include a home store, a hunting and fishing store, an apparel store, an outdoor adventure store with kayaks and canoes, and more. Walk across the street for a meal at Linda Bean’s Maine Kitchen and Topside Tavern. Kelpie slaw, lobster rolls, fried haddock sandwiches, lobster macaroni and cheese—yum! Linda was a relative of Leon Leonwood Bean himself.
Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
St. Charles Streetcar
Belgrade Lakes Roughly two scenic hours north of Portland is the Belgrade Lakes region, nestled between Long Pond and Great Pond. Apple picking, hiking, drinking hot cider, snuggling up around a fireplace at night, stargazing on a dock, and listening to the eerie song of the loons swimming past all day and night: Belgrade Lakes is the perfect place to experience Maine in the fall. Rent a lake house (most are quaint old fishing camps built in the 1930s) or stay at The Village Inn and Tavern, famous as the place that inspired playwright Ernest Thompson’s awardwinning On Golden Pond, later made into the classic 1981 film of the same name. The Inn can help organize boat rentals so you can enjoy the wide, clear waters of Long Pond or Great Pond. Although August is the best time of year to swim here, taking a boat out in the fall affords breathtaking views of the beautiful fall colors against the clear blue of the water.
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getaway
Camden Within driving distance of Belgrade Lakes is the charming seaside town of Camden. Drive up to the top of Camden’s Mount Battie for a spectacular view of the town, sailboats in the harbor, the islands and mountains of Acadia National Park on the horizon, and a sea of cardinal red, rusty orange and goldenrod yellow—a vast forest in all its autumnal glory. If you want to linger in this delightful village longer, stay at the Whitehall hotel, where the 19th-century Maine poet Edna St. Vincent Millay recited her poem “Renascence,” which was inspired by her view from Mount Battie.
Bar Harbor A little over two hours’ drive from Belgrade Lakes is “Bah Habah,” as the locals call it: a tourist town full of all the “lobstah” rolls and Maine souvenirs you could ever want. Explore Acadia National Park from here, and afterwards go into town to eat and shop. Be sure to check out Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium for ice cream (including a lobster flavor!) and homemade fudge and candy. Take your sweets to the park that overlooks ships in the harbor. The quest for the best fall colors continues in Acadia. It’s a small park, an easy drive around Park Loop Road, but be sure to see Cadillac Mountain, the tallest point on the eastern seaboard and the first place you can see the sun rise in the United States. You can hike up the mountain in about three hours, but to make the most of a short visit, drive up for the view after walking around the nearby Jordan Pond or hiking up smaller Mount Katahdin. Don’t miss lunch at the lovely Jordan Pond House restaurant located at the head of the lake.
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getaway
Bourbon Street
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home trends
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home trends home trends El Cosmico
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travel
The Thing About
Golf Trips Text by John Edwards Photos courtesy of Regency Travel, Inc.
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travel Putting together a golf trip is different than planning any other type of trip. The destination is normally not a city or even a country; it is most likely a particularly famous golf course. Two such iconic courses are the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland and Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin. The great thing about these destinations is that they offer much more than just the course for golfers and non-golfers alike.
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travel St. Andrews is located on the east coast of Fife in Scotland, approximately 30 miles northeast of Edinburgh. Over the centuries, this destination has come to be synonymous with the game itself and the Old Course at St. Andrews is known worldwide as the birthplace of golf. The sport (or something close to it) has been played on the Links of St. Andrews since 1400 A.D. King James II of Scotland banned golf in 1457 for national security reasons—he felt the game kept young men from practicing their archery—however, King James IV restored the game in 1502 and became a golfer himself. The course has been home to players, caddies, club and ball makers, and today you can add hoteliers, restauranteurs and guides to the list. Each year, thousands of guests ensure that St. Andrews keeps its position as a mythical shrine to which all golf enthusiasts must make a pilgrimage. The destination is, however, more than just the Old Course; it is truly a must-see for those with a passion for golf, history or both.
Old Course at St. Andrews Six other championship courses are within an hour’s drive. The New Course at St. Andrews, oddly, is not exactly new, having opened in 1895. The course is more conventional than the Old Course with defined fairways, and it is said to be more difficult. Another course in the area is Carnoustie, which hosted The Open Championship (British Open) this year for the eighth time. Known as one of the toughest courses in the world, Carnoustie is very long with thin fairways that are almost always buffeted by high winds. Opened in the early 2000s, Kingsbarns is set on a stunning stretch of coastline. Its wide fairways are inviting to all players. Balcomie Links is home to the Crail Golfing Society. As the seventh oldest golf club in the world, the course is extremely short by today’s standards. When the crosswinds pick up, however, it is challenging for even scratch golfers. The nearby Medal Course in Monifieth boasts a combination of links and parkland that opened in 1858. It was used in 2007 as the final qualifying course for The Open Championship. The Panmure Golf Club was built as a nine-hole course in 1845 and redesigned into a full 18 holes in 1922. This spectacular example of a links course helped Ben Hogan win his only Open Championship in 1953. Hogan practiced at Panmure for two weeks prior to the tournament at Carnoustie. 62 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
getaway In addition to spectacular golf courses St. Andrews offers visitors historic castles, cathedrals and universities. In addition, distilleries (over 120) and the romantic Scottish Highlands are nearby. St. Andrews Castle, located in Fife, is a picturesque ruin that sits on a rocky point overlooking the North Sea. Originally built in 1189, the castle housed everyone from kings to the criminally insane before falling into disrepair. The Cathedral of St. Andrews is also of significance. Built in 1158, the cathedral was the center of the Catholic Church in Scotland and remained so until the 16th century, when the Catholic mass was outlawed. The structure fell into disuse and is in ruins today. The University of St. Andrews is a vibrant center of higher learning. The oldest university in Scotland is also the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Founded in the early 1400s, it boasts many famous alumni, including Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.
St. Andrews Castle Another highlight in the area is the Kingsbarns Distillery. This relatively new distillery was the brainchild of former caddie Douglas Clement. He worked at Kingsbarns Golf Links for 13 years and gathered business cards from wealthy golfers he met. These connections, as well as a grant from the Scottish government, helped Clement get his business off the ground. Finally, with help from the Wemyss Family, owners of Wemyss Malts, the distillery opened in 2013. It is a perfect spot to take a tour and perhaps buy some whisky just a few miles from St. Andrews. The Highlands are just a beautiful car ride away. No trip to the region is complete without a day trip to Inveraray Castle, Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, Edradour Distillery, Cairngorms National Park or one of Scotland’s picturesque small towns and villages. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 63
travel Whistling Straits, in Kohler, Wisconsin, is arguably the greatest championship golf course in the United States. Since opening in 1998, the course has hosted the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships, the 2007 U.S. Senior Open, and is the future site of the 2020 Ryder Cup. Nestled along a two-mile stretch of Lake Michigan, eight of the course’s holes replicate the ancient seaside links courses of Scotland and Ireland. A flock of Scottish Blackface sheep wanders freely and stone bridges punctuate the landscape, amid vast rolling greens, deep-pot bunkers and grass-topped dunes. Fairways hold very few trees, leaving them open to wind and the elements.
Kingsbarns Golf, however, is not the only reason the town of Kohler is on the map. In 1873 Walter Kohler took a cast-iron water trough, enameled it, added four claw feet and thus created the bathtub. Legend has it that he sold it to a local farmer for a cow and 14 chickens. The success of that brilliant idea led to a state-of-the-art factory and an immigrant workforce that needed housing and a community. Kohler believed “a worker deserves not only wages, but roses as well.” One of the first and most successful planned communities in the United States started with a dormitory that included a pub, bowling alley, barbershop, and a school for English lessons and citizenship. The Olmstead Brothers, designers of New York’s Central Park, established the area. Today, the village of Kohler is one of the most beautiful in America; it appears to have emerged from a Norman Rockwell painting. The American Club, once the dormitory for immigrant workers, is now a five-star, full service hotel Forsyth Fountain catering to golfers and non-golfers alike. 64 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
Whistling Straits Golf is the reason most guests come to Kohler. The area boasts three additional championship courses, each with its own distinctive features. The Irish, also a links course, is just inland from the Straits. It is divided by meandering streams, grassland and what can seem like 10,000 sand traps. Lakes, 80-foot high dunes and formidable wind make the course a true challenge. Blackwolf Run, consisting of two separate courses, the River and the Meadow Valley, is on the south side of Kohler. Two centuries ago the Winnebago tribe and Chief Blackwolf lived in the Sheboygan River Valley. Today, in that same area, formed by glacial runoff, lie two scenic courses designed by Pete Dye. The River course sits on rich land once favored for hunting and fishing by the Winnebagos and Algonquins. The Sheboygan River and its gorges wind through 14 of the 18 holes. This course is one of the most beautiful, as well as one of the most difficult in the U.S. Although Meadow Valley is considered challenging for professionals and low handicappers, the placement of tees and landing areas throughout the winding valleys and rolling meadows can be friendly to the higher handicapped golfer.
The American Club
travel
The Kohler Company, renowned for faucets and fixtures, is also known for its Kohler Waters Spa, located next door to the American Club. The facility touts an impressive list of services that could occupy and pamper guests for days. Choices run the gamut from hydrotherapy, massages, manicures and pedicures to bathing and eyelash extensions. This is one of only sixty five-star spas worldwide. While in the area, a tour of the Kohler factory and the Kohler Design Center is a must do. In the Art Deco designed factory visitors learn the proud history of our country’s largest plumbing manufacturer. Participants visit several buildings to get a look at the entire production process. The Kohler Design Center is a three-story showcase of innovative product design, technology and American history. Offering a fusion of old and new, the company’s most innovative products are on display alongside examples of wares from Kohler’s earliest days. Shopping areas in the village are filled with wonderful boutiques selling everything from commercial tile to clothing. The Kohler Art Center has various exhibitions from different artists on display. A successful golf trip requires planning around a number of factors. For a specific course, the location, the weather and the time of year are all significant components to consider. The most important thing to remember, however, is that there is always much more to a golf location than just the course! September 2018 • athomemms.com | 65
travel Blackwolf Run
For information on planning a golf trip, call the travel advisors at Regency Travel, Inc. at 901.682.9065 or visit www.regencytravel.net.
Kohler Waters Spa
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experience this
G
! e p A o
Text by Kathryn Winter Photos courtesy of Go Ape! USA
What started as a way to give back to local communities has made its way to Shelby Farms Park. With16 locations across the US, Go Ape Treetop Adventures is more than just a zip line; it’s a unique outdoor experience. The fully immersive forest exploration is a self-guided journey high among the treetops. Guests can choose their path based on the level of difficulty, and each location features zip lines that transport adventurers from one series of obstacles to the next. Suzanne Coblentz, head of marketing for Go Ape, says that every location has a unique course designed to flow seamlessly with the natural topography of its setting. “Guests can move at their own pace and can choose obstacles based on the level of difficulty. Whether you are an adventure junkie or ready to cross something off your bucket list, we have an unparalleled experience for all levels,” she explains. 70 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
The Memphis course takes two to three hours to complete and is open rain or shine. Temperatures are usually several degrees cooler under the forest canopy and water stations are located throughout the course. Guests will navigate 41 crossings like the Tibetan Bridge, Flying Carpet, two Tarzan swings and six exhilarating zip lines spanning Pine Lake. The longest zip is 623 feet, and the highest platform is 40 feet in the air. The longest crossing is 63 feet and the total length of the course is 2,566 feet. Some restrictions apply at the Treetop Adventure. The minimum age to participate is 10, minimum height is four feet, seven inches, and maximum weight is 285 pounds (subject to harness fit). One participating adult is required to supervise up to two ten-to-15 year-olds. Participants aged 16 and 17 do not require an accompanying adult but must have a waiver signed by a legal guardian.
Picnic Time
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experience this
Other requirements include sneakers or ankle boots. No sandals, open-toed or slip-on shoes are allowed on the adventure. “Go Ape is a workout and guests should come prepared in exercise gear,” Coblentz says. The experience starts when guests are fitted with safety gear including harnesses, pulleys and carabiners. Then they receive a 30-minute safety briefing on how to use the equipment and course etiquette. Once guests complete the brief, they are free to enjoy an independent and self-paced adventure in the trees. Instructors patrol the forest and can answer questions or give tips on how to conquer an obstacle. Friends and family can watch participants from the ground via free trail access. Cameras, phones and other devices are allowed on the course as long as they are secured and tucked away to prevent them from getting caught or falling on the ground.
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“We love helping guests conquer their fears. Go Ape is the perfect way to overcome a fear of heights and simultaneously build a sense of accomplishment,” Coblentz says. Companies and organizations use Go Ape as a team activity to build camaraderie and have fun. Go Ape started as a mission-driven organization and supports the public park systems by sharing revenue from every adventure booked. Says Coblentz, “Our employees engage through stewardship throughout the year and include things like invasive species removal, river and waterway cleanups, trail maintenance and tree plantings. We’re doing our part to ensure everyone has the opportunity to love life adventurously and enjoy the great legacy of public parks and recreation spaces.”
To book a treetop adventure at Go Ape go to www.goape.com. The price for ages 16 and up is $58, and $38 for those 15 and under. Follow @goape.Memphis on Instagram for behind-the-scenes views of Shelby Farms Park. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 73
social
Live at the Garden Presents:
Gladys Knight Photography by Steve Roberts
On July 28, Memphians welcomed Gladys Knight to the Live at the Garden stage. Mississippi blues man Dexter Allen opened the show, starting the fun on the night to remember. Now in its 18th year, Live at the Garden is held on the beautiful grounds of the Memphis Botanic Garden in East Memphis.
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social
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social
Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare Celebrates Centennial with "Party of the Century" On Saturday, June 23, Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare hosted the Party of the Century at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park to commemorate the organization’s 100th anniversary. Over 800 guests attended the elegant evening, which featured special guest Magic Johnson, live musical entertainment, a silent disco, gourmet food, cocktails and special indoor and outdoor activities, all overlooking beautiful Hyde Lake at Shelby Farms Park. Event proceeds will help further the healthcare system’s mission for the next 100 years. Text and photos courtesy of Sarah Farley, Methodist LeBonheur Corporate Communications Specialist
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home trends social
GPAC’S What’s Your Jazz? El Cosmico
GPAC’s main stage was the site of this summer’s What’s Your Jazz? Event, a fun cocktail party for GPAC jazz aficionados including Jazz Society members, Jazz Set members and subscribers to GPAC’s Jazz Series. On July 19, guests raved over the fabulous bites provided by Glenda Hastings and her Napa Cafe team, and cocktails by GPAC Master Mixologist Brad Pitts. AMRO Music brought the entertainment, showcasing the fantastic Steinway Spirio player piano, treating guests to an evening of jazz piano history. GPAC offers a variety of membership societies for donors which include perks such as the What’s Your Jazz? event. Along with its popular Jazz Series, GPAC presents Jazz in the Box six times per year, when the Watkins Studio Theater transforms into the best secret jazz club in town. Text and photos courtesy of Nevada Presley, Germantown Performing Arts Center
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wedding
Austin Varner Ben Macaskill September 16, 2017 Memphis, Tennessee Parents of the Bride: Suzanne & Jim Varner Parents of the Groom: Bridget & John Macaskill 78 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
wedding
SOURCES Event Planner: Russell & Ruthie Events Wedding: Memphis Hunt & Polo Club Photographer: Kristyn Hogan Florist: Le Fleur Wedding Dress: Mira Zwillinger Party Dress: Carolina Herrera Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier Hair: Farrah Taylor Makeup: Faces by Seven Band: Jessie's Girls
Tent & Rentals: White Door Events
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entertaining getaway
Candy Land
Text by Ginni Jones | Photos courtesy of Josh Hammond
Attention Candy Lovers— Take a Step Inside Sophia’s Sugar-Filled Birthday Party!
Forsyth Fountain Text by Ginni Jones
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getaway entertaining
The Inspiration
Sophia Hammond is a big fan of anything sweet—candy, donuts, cake—she loves it all. So when coming up with a theme for her birthday, her family knew right off the bat that it had to involve lots and lots of sugar! They drew inspiration from The Sugar Shak in Rosemary Beach, Florida, and Dylan’s Candy Bar in New York.
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entertaining
The Decor The Hammonds love decorating for Christmas at their house, so much so that they start decorating before Halloween! For the birthday party, Lindsay, Sophia's mom repurposed the giant candy ornaments that usually cover her daughter's pink Christmas tree. “We have two sparkly white trees that flash colored lights, so I decided to decorate them with Sophia’s ornaments and have them be the anchors for the candy table. The candy buffet was every kid’s dream. I tried to incorporate unique and old-fashioned candy, along with popular things like Kit Kats. Most of the items came from Wayne’s Candy (the best-kept secret in Memphis). The cookie tables were decorated with large candy tubes and scattered treats like Twinkies and candy bars. The room was decorated with inflatable donuts and pink and purple tulle. And finally, a giant cupcake piñata hung from the doorway, where a butler polar bear serving candy greeted guests,” Lindsay says.
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entertaining
The Menu
Party goers enjoyed lemonade, ice cream and pink cotton candy. After all, sugar was the theme of the day! The kids also got to eat the cookies they had decorated and any candy that had been scattered around the room.
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Create Your Own Lindsay suggests, “If you are planning a candy-themed party, I would advise doing it in an ‘off’ season for candy sales. For example, right before Halloween and Valentine’s Day, candy prices are higher. Sophia’s birthday is in May, so we just got lucky.” “For gifts and parties, I tend to buy things throughout the year and store them in my attic until I need them. I picked up a lot of the candy ornaments on sale at Hobby Lobby in January. When you see a picture of something you like, keep it for inspiration. I found pictures of cakes that I liked on Pinterest and sent them to the baker,” she explains. Lindsay calls Oriental Trading Company her go-to resource for kids’ parties. “You can buy trinkets for the favor bags in bulk and they have many options for party themes.” She also scours Target regularly; it’s where she found popsicle lip glosses that were perfect for the favor bags. At a children’s party, activities are a must to fill up time. Sophia’s party included candy necklace making and cookie decorating, as well as a cotton candy machine, a piñata and a candy buffet. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 87
entertaining
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dining out
Milk Dessert Bar Text by Cara Sievers Photography by Annabella Charles
Stepping into Milk Dessert Bar at 1789 Kirby Parkway, Suite 10, in East Memphis feels like a bit of a time warp—but in the best sort of way. There is an ease, a slowness, if you will, that makes the retro ice cream parlor feel a bit different from everything else outside. The decor is simple with a vintage flair; and from basic to fanciful, every menu item is handmade from scratch daily with a little imagination and a lot of love. Caterer and Mid South native Sharon Cohn opened Milk Dessert Bar in June with a clear goal: to give Memphis back something it had lacked since Café Expresso closed several years ago. She felt an element was missing in the dessert landscape of the city—a place to enjoy a variety of delectable goodies, whether as a mid-afternoon treat or a late-night snack. “I travel a lot and have family in L.A. and New York,” says Cohn. “After a night out or a show, you could always go get dessert; Memphis didn’t have that.” Cohn’s love of baking, which was inspired by her blind grandmother, led to the creation of Milk Dessert Bar. She knew she wanted to offer traditional favorites like ice cream cones and cakes, but she also had some more unusual ideas in mind. “I didn’t want it to be one-note,” she recalls. “That’s why I came up with the crazy shakes and cookie doughs, among other things.” The menu is a reflection of the restaurant’s motto, “Where classics meet the unexpected.” For example, customers can opt to have classic chocolate chip ice cream scooped onto a pretzel or blue corn tortilla cone. Traditional cheesecake gets a trendy twist too; Milk offers it in interesting flavors including air travelers favorite Biscoff cookie. 90 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
home trends Cohn’s milkshake creations are a spectacle for the eyes and the taste buds. The colossal unicorn shake is a colorful, magical masterpiece topped with rainbow ribbon, cotton candy, candy crystals and a shiny unicorn horn. The Cookie Monster shake is made with blue vanilla ice cream mixed with cookie dough and Oreo chunks, then topped with chocolate chip cookie crumbs and rock candy. Take your love of cookie dough to the next level by sampling one of Milk Dessert Bar’s homemade cookie doughs; try one or get a flight of four different kinds. You may have trouble choosing with artisanal flavors like gooey butter cookie, confetti, S’mores and pretzel bark. No need to worry; all the dough is made with pasteurized eggs and heattreated flour, so it’s safe to eat raw. While ice cream, shakes and cookie dough top the list of warm-weather favorites, an evolving and tantalizing fall menu is just around the corner. The very popular unicorn shake will morph into its cold-weather cousin, the unicorn hot chocolate, which also comes in a special mug and dressed up to the nines. Cohn plans to offer several types of seasonal and holiday-themed hot chocolates, like Candy Corn or Witches’ Brew for Halloween, and maybe a peppermint hot chocolate around Christmas. She’s also looking forward to selling products online and continuing to grow and develop the menu. Cohn admits that expansion, whether within or outside of Memphis, is on her mind, but she is taking things one step at a time. For the time being, she is happy to sit back and enjoy the warm welcome Memphis has extended to Milk Dessert Bar. She admits that in the short time it’s been open her business has already experienced more success than she had ever hoped. “I just wanted to have a place where families and kids could come enjoy dessert,” says Cohn. “My heart is singing when the place is packed with families. It’s crazy and I’m tired, but it’s amazing and I’m so thankful.”
El Cosmico
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happy hour
The Fountain of Youth
• • • •
Few things are as refreshing in a cocktail than fresh-squeezed juice. From lime juice in daiquiris and lemon juice in the infinite varieties of sours down to the French 75, pairing the myriad of flavors with the right spirits can be a fitful task, even for the skilled drink maker. When developing a cocktail it is important to try various types of Ingredients Directions base spirits until you achieve the ultimate balance 1 ½ oz. aged Puerto Rican rum • Combine alland ingredients except orange peel indrink, a of flavor, bitterness nuance. For this mixing glass and stir until well chilled. the dryness of a wheated bourbon like Weller ¾ oz. fennel-infused Dolin Dry Vermouth Special Reserve pairs well with candied • Strain into cocktail coupe orthe highball glass withbitters ice. 1 bar spoon of Jack Rudy Grenadine imparted from the grenadine and grapefruit juice. • bourbon Spritz orange peel over cocktail and garnish. A sweeter would change it entirely Orange peel for garnish because• ofFor this interaction. Add splash fennel-infused vermouth: Pourahalf a bottle ofof dry bubbly for extra fun if the moment requires it. vermouth into a jar or bottle with fresh slices of fennel root. Store Cheers! in refrigerator for one week before use.
Text and photo courtesy of Brad Pitts
award-winning 92 | At Home MemphisBrad & MidPitts Southis•an September 2018
Memphis mixologist and Beverage Manager at GPAC.
Ingredients • 2 oz. Weller Special Reserve Bourbon Whiskey • 2 oz. fresh grapefruit juice • ½ oz. Jack Rudy Grenadine • 4 dashes Angostura Bitters
Directions • Combine all ingredients in a cocktail tin and shake vigorously. • Double strain into a cocktail coupe or over crushed ice. • No garnish.
Photo by Yasmine Omari
Brad Pitts is an awardwinning Memphis mixologist and beverage manager at Germantown Performing Arts Center. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 93
in the kitchen
King Ranch Chicken
Excerpted from Simply Grilling by Jennifer Chandler
By Jennifer Chandler | Excerpted from The Southern Pantry Cookbook by Jennifer Chandler Photo by Justin Fox |Burks | Foodbytyling by Chandler Jennifer Chandler | Photo by Justin Fox Burks Food Styling Jennifer 94 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
in the kitchen getaway
This spicy chicken casserole is perfect for feeding a group. I like to serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top. A simple green salad rounds out the meal. Ingredients
Direction
• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 3 home trends skinless, boneless breasts)
• Preheat the oven to 350˚.
• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter • ½ cup diced yellow onion (about half an onion) • ½ cup diced green bell pepper (1 pepper) • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour • 2 tsp. chili powder • ½ tsp. cumin • ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper • 1 cup chicken stock • ½ cup 2% or whole milk • 1 can (14.5-ounce) diced tomatoes, drained • 1 can (4-ounce) diced green chilies • ⅓ cup sour cream • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 12 6-inch corn tortillas, cut into 1/2-inch strips • 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
Serves 6 to 8. Freezes well: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• In a Dutch oven or large stock pot melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 more minute. • Dust the vegetables with the flour and stir to coat. Add the chili powder, cumin and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute. • Add the stock and cook on medium-low heat, stirring, until the mixture starts to thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the milk, tomatoes and green chilies. Cover the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded, about 15 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. • Spoon ½ cup of the sauce evenly onto the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the tortilla strips over the sauce. Evenly place half of the chicken over the tortillas. Spoon half of the remaining sauce evenly over the top of the chicken. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of cheese evenly over the sauce. Repeat the layering of the tortilla strips, chicken, sauce and cheese with the remaining ingredients. • Bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 30 to 35 minutes. Serve warm.
Pantry shortcut: 2 (10-oz.) cans of Ro-tel® tomatoes can be substituted for the cans of diced tomatoes and green chilies. September 2018 • athomemms.com | 95
Forsyth Fountain 96 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
getaway
SOURCES 16 | HEALTHY YOU
Special thanks - Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
26 | AT HOME WITH
Special thanks - Jim Norton with the Norton Recipe thenortonrecipe.com
30 | HOME FEATURE
Special thanks Uhlhorn Brothers Builders homeowners Nikki and Walker Uhlhorn Designer Leigh Dill Commissioned art above daughter’s bed Whitney Winkler Outdoor lighting Bill Taylor with Outdoor lighting Concepts
40 | DESIGN
Special thanks - Michael Christie with Christie Cut Stone christiecutstone.com 901.382.6242
90 | DINING OUT
Special thanks - Milk Dessert Bar milkedessertbar.com 901.730.0893
92 | HAPPY HOUR
Special thanks - Brad Pitts
98 | ON A GOOD NOTE
Special thanks - REDZONE Ministries redzonememphis.org
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ongetaway a good note
Whitney Williams,
RedZone Ministries Text by Cara Sievers Photos courtesy RedZone Ministries
In the game of football, the red zone is the final 20 yards before reaching the end zone. This critical phase of the game in which players meet one obstacle or defense after another inspired the name for RedZone Ministries, a nonprofit serving Memphis’ Orange Mound community. Through outreach, education, recreation and housing, the organization aims to impact the community’s students during a critical time in their lives. The mission called to RedZone program director Whitney Williams a little more than five years ago. Williams grew up in Germantown and was an active member of Germantown Baptist Church during her youth. Her whole family is passionate about education, so a career in educational ministry might seem an easy choice for Williams. However, she describes the path to her job as a remarkable journey. “I come from a family of educators, specifically educators who are passionate about helping children who have disabilities,” she says. “My whole life, I watched my role models show me what it’s like to help people, especially those who don’t look like you or share the same needs and desires as you.” Williams decided after high school to attend University of Tennessee to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in education. Her trajectory was almost shifted twice by impactful mission trips she took in high school and college. “I was so moved by my experiences that I was ready to give up everything and become a missionary full-time,” she recalls. For the next few years, Williams divided her energy between service and education; first teaching fourth grade at an at-risk school in Memphis, and then moving to missionary work. With the guidance of the staff at Hope Church, she explored missionary opportunities within and outside the United States, trying to discern where to focus her time and passion. During this soul-searching period, while staying with her sister in California, Williams received a call from another sister back in Memphis about the position at RedZone. She had so much faith that it was meant to be that she drove back to Memphis even before her first interview. She knew it was what she was supposed to be doing. “My path to RedZone is 100 percent a God thing,” says Williams. “I know it’s cliché, but I don’t feel like I’m going to work every day. It’s a lifestyle. I love it. My life is these kids in Orange Mound.” Williams was overjoyed to join an organization doing hands-on, impactful work in the heart of Memphis. Founded about a decade ago by Howard Eddings, former CEO of Memphis Leadership Foundation and an Orange Mound native, RedZone is a faith-based organization focused on sharing the gospel creatively. The group serves about 300 youth in the community by walking alongside them daily, providing additional support for their families and teaching them to be the best possible versions of themselves. Williams’ responsibilities focus on after-school programming, which includes ACT prep, resume writing and college guidance, mixed with a healthy helping of recreational activity, creating a familial atmosphere and an ongoing draw for the students. She hopes connection will sustain the ministry for years to come. “I want our kids to go off to college and choose careers they are passionate about; but them I want them to want to return to Memphis and to Orange Mound to help the community that raised them.” “I know what I do matters, but I don’t think I’m doing this life-changing work on my own,” says Williams. “There are so many people who wake up every day and pour themselves into our kids. Even these students wake up every day and decide to do better. I would be crazy to take credit for all of that on my own.” 98 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • September 2018
September 2018 • athomemms.com | 99
getaway
September 2018 • athomemms.com | 100