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November 2023 PUBLISHER

LIFESTYLE LETTER

November 2023: Give Thanks The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those we love and encourages giving back in meaningful ways. Amidst the preparation, cooking, polishing, strategically placing, traveling, placating, and so on, we can easily miss the importance of simply being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have nurtured us along the way. After all, in the wise words of Barbara Bush, "When all the dust is settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family and friends." In addition to the abundance on our tables and in our lives, this month we celebrate our two-year anniversary as a publication. My own gratitude list probably looks like yours: my healthy family, friends who are my chosen family, a rewarding career and new beginnings. Before River City Lifestyle, I never could have dreamed I would have the distinct pleasure to work alongside this group of women I admire immensely, sharing enriching and uplifting stories imbued with pride for the River City we all call home. We are supported by a cast of partners who share our vision and enable us to bring you this magazine each month. We are thankful for you, our readers, who continue to inspire us to uncover and relay the grit, grind and goodness that is here. Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back. We are thankful for the residents and businesses who help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We celebrate time-honored Thanksgiving traditions seen through a new lens by first-time hostess Kit Garrott. We take a breathtaking look at horses and heirloom jewelry and provide an education in all things sterling silver. We meet the wonder woman behind Rachel's Kids and we count our blessings. Finally, for those of us lucky enough to be hosted, we have a round up of hostess gifts sure to please. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings. May your cup runneth over and your sterling be sparkly. Blessings to you and yours,

Christian Owen | christian.owen@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Lindsey Tonkin | lindsey.tonkin@citylifestyle.com PUBLICATION DIR ECTOR

Jeannie Tabor | jeannie.tabor@citylifestyle.com PUBLICATION MANAGER

Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com MAR KET AR EA COOR DINATOR

Malise Culpepper | malise.culpepper@citylifestyle.com PHOTO EDITOR

Sarah Bell, Sélavie Photography STAFF PHOTOGR APHER S

Bonner Morgan, Izabella Sandoval STAFF WR ITER S

Amy Birdsong Golden, Margaret Ledbetter CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Sierra Daugherty

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

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Proverbs 3:5-6 River City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River City area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in River City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

20 A Sterling Holiday Season

Lifestyle Letter

Local Limelight A RTS + C U LTU R E

Education Corner A RTS + C U LTU R E

Hosting Tips HO ME + DES I GN

Must See A RTS + C U LT U R E

Our Town LI FE + C U LT U R E

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Locally Sourced S HO PPI NG

Polished and Ready to Sparkle

24 The Heart of Hosting

Embracing Timeless Traditions and Creating New Memories

30 Transforming Treasures

Crafting Bespoke Beauties from Beloved Family Gems - The Art of Repurposing Heirloom Jewelry

34 Rachel's Kids

Embracing Binghampton and Gaining Gratitude

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Bonner Morgan Horsing Around is a love story set against the breathtaking backdrop of Spring Mill Farm where Dee and Dave Pellegrini's love for one another and for horses continues to inspire riders of all ages.

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PASSING THE TORCH Abby Phillips Transfers Leadership of Arrow Creative In the heart of Midtown Memphis, a story of artistic vision has been unfolding over the last 11 years. After years of inspiring and innovative work that has altered the face of creativityin Memphis, co-founder and Executive Director of Arrow Creative, Abby Phillips, will be passing the torch on to new leadership. Since its inception in 2012, Phillips and her

co-founder, Dorothy Collier, embarked on a mission to create a haven for artists; a place where they could not only sell their work, but could receive top notch entrepreneurial enrichment and a sense of community. This dream culminated in 2021 when Arrow Creative found its forever home, a 23,000 square foot gem in Midtown. As this chapter reaches its end, Phillips looks back on the remarkable journey. “I’m incredibly proud of the work that has gone into this organization. [Co-founder] Dorothy Collier and I set out to build a space for artists to work and sell in one location, for art enthusiasts to find a place to create, and for mini makers to learn from working artists. It's been a privilege to work with such inventive talent, both in our artists, as well as our staff. With the organization in a stable place and experiencing continued growth, it is now time for new leadership to step in and help Arrow grow to its fullest potential.” While Phillips is stepping away from leadership at Arrow, her vibrant legacy carries on. Over the years she has touched

“I've been a huge fan of Arrow's mission since they launched. I'm still pinching myself to have the privilege of leading their next exciting phase of programming, growth and impact!" - Elizabeth Lemmonds, Executive Director

Elizabeth Lemmonds, Arrow Creative's new Executive Director.

ARTICLE BY SIERRA DAUGHERTY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ARROW CREATIVE

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

the lives of over 300 artists and designers through her visionary initiatives. As the Arrow community reflects on Abby’s impact, they also look forward with excitement at the new opportunities on the horizon under new Executive Director Elizabeth Lemmonds. Lemmonds has been working her way toward this position for over a decade at powerhouse organizations such as Epicenter, New Memphis and Start Co. She originally got to know Arrow Creative as a mentor through Epicenter. Phillips says of Arrow’s new Executive Director, “Elizabeth was top on my list to step into the Arrow ED position and take the reins. Her knowledge of entrepreneurship, specifically with artists and makers, makes her a perfect fit. She has worked with some of the most inspiring organizations in Memphis and has the gusto to grow Arrow to its full potential.” During this time of transition and celebration, Arrow invites everyone to visit their inspiring space this month and in December for their highly anticipated 4th annual Holiday Bazaar and get to know their amazing staff, artists and community that continue to help Arrow reach new heights.

Co-Founders Abby Phillips and Dorothy Collier at the grand opening of Arrow.

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A Sterling Holiday Season POLISHED AND READY TO SPARKLE ARTICLE BY CHRISTIAN OWEN

In the spirit of holiday decorating, we focus on the timeless, ornamental choice that is sterling silver. When making spirits even brighter as you polish the silver treasures throughout your home or gift a keepsake, silver objet d’art to someone on your Christmas list, you might develop a more informed appreciation for silver by taking a closer look. The markings on your cherished piece may tell a story about its history and value. The word “STERLING” in capital letters generally indicates that a silver object was made in the United States. Any article marked STERLING in America must contain a minimum of 925 parts silver for every 1000 parts of the material. This “sterling standard” ratio was adopted in the United States during the mid-1860s. Vintage American marks on 925 sterling silver made in America from the 1860s through the 1970s—especially items made before 1940—are almost always alongside the company name, patent date or number, pattern shape or model number, or other marks and symbols. Not all pieces made with the sterling standard ratio in the United States bear the label of STERLING, however. American-made objects often bear the maker’s mark in full within a border, whereas a maker’s mark in the UK is

EDU CAT ION C OR N E R | ARTS + CULTURE

usually the silversmith’s initials. The silversmith may also be represented by a symbol such as a knight indicating Mary C. Knight. Jeremiah Dummer (1645–1718) is credited with being the first American-born silversmith. Interestingly, another major maker was the War of Independence folk hero Paul Revere (1734–1818). Distinct designs, typically in keeping with significant art movements and period styles, point to when an object was made and often to the individual silversmith. Tiffany & Co., founded by Charles Louis Tiffany (1812–1902) as a fancy-goods store in New York City in 1837, became America’s leading silver, jewelry and glass manufacturer. Charles’ son, Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848–1933), took control and became the company’s first artistic director. Under his leadership, the Tiffany company produced objects in the Art Nouveau fashion. Characteristic of the times, during the 1950s, Tiffany objects in silver took on a simpler form. A valuable commodity—silver has required a standard of purity for centuries. While the English use of the sterling standard predates the 18th century, American manufacturers did not adopt it universally until the end of the 19th century. Other countries used different standards—as low as 800 and as high as 950. While multiple countries have distinctive marks for silver, markings are often inconsistent and require a specialist to determine the true identity of each object. Today, 925/1000 is a globally accepted silver standard, and “925” appears on most of the world’s new silver, including reproductions. Although a mark of ‘sterling’ alone doesn’t guarantee a piece is old, it is generally true that silver marked “925” only or “sterling” and “925” has been made since the 1970s. CONTINUED >

“What story does your favorite family heirloom or that special item on the store shelf tell? It could be an engaging conversation starter around this year’s Thanksgiving dinner table.”

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Washing and Polishing Silver Tarnished silver and silver-plated items can be effectively cleaned and polished by hand using a soft cloth and a silver cleaner (and perhaps an entertaining podcast to pass the time). However, all such cleaners have a mild abrasive action and remove a minute layer of silver from the surface with each cleaning.

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Gently wash, rinse and dry the silver. For light tarnish, use a cloth infused with your silver cleaner of choice. More severe tarnishing requires a liquid or paste. 2. Apply cleaners with care: Put on white cotton gloves, apply liquids or pastes sparingly and rub with a soft cloth. Rotate the cloth as it becomes soiled. For recessed or engravedareas, use a soft-bristled brush. After tarnish removal, wash, rinse and dry with a soft towel. 3. Final polishing: Buff the surface with another clean, soft cloth or chamois leather. A fine-bristled artist’s brush is ideal for buffing recessed areas.

REMOVING COFFEE AND TEA STAINS FROM SILVER: 1. Mix 5 ml (1 tsp.) of borax with 600 ml of hot water. 2. Fill the silver container with this solution and let it sit for two hours. 3. Swirl the mixture around the container with a soft-bristled artist’s brush. 4. Pour out the solution and wash the item with warm, soapy water. 5. Rinse with clean, warm water. Dry with a soft towel.

LOCAL INSIDER TIPS: Babcock Gifts, one of the River City's largest, curated selections of silver objects and flatware, maintains an elegant collection of both sterling and silver-plated goblets, bread baskets, serving bowls, trays and more. For cleaning and polishing, Brooks Terry, owner of Babcock Gifts, recommends Hagerty silver cleaner, which they use and keep in stock for customers. Regarding long-term care, Brooks says silver-plated objects are, in some ways, more

EDU CAT ION C OR N E R | ARTS + CULTURE

desirable because a silver-plated item can be re-plated. Yes, sterling silver is more durable and resistant to tarnishing than silver-plate, but sterling requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Brooks explains that, if too far-gone, the alloyed sterling silver material can be impossible to fully restore, whereas a new coating of silver plating is a simpler fix for well-loved pieces. For more challenging silver revival, his shop has a relationship with a local resource for detailed cleaning and re-plating.

For severe tarnishing, consider an electrochemical dip. The process is less abrasive than manual cleaning and will not remove a thin layer of silver, making it the best choice for cleaning worn silver-plated objects.

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A table set for eight with enough room to relax and enjoy.

THE HEART OF HOSTING

ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BELL, SÉLAVIE PHOTOGRAPHY

EMBRACING TIMELESS TRADITIONS AND CREATING NEW MEMORIES

H OST IN G T IP S | HOM E + DE S I GN

The art of hosting is passed down from generation to generation. The knowledge, tips, recipes and tableware that are shared take on a life of their own as the traditions change hands. These traditions and heirlooms that accompany them impact holiday tables for decades to come. The Thanksgiving memories from childhood spent drinking sparkling apple cider and eating fresh dinner rolls linger in our minds as we begin hosting gatherings of our own. Since childhood, I have been surrounded by incredible hosts and hostesses - mothers, grandmothers, aunts, uncles and everyone in between. I ate at beautifully and thoughtfully set tables for holidays growing up, only partially recognizing the attention to detail and guest experience each host considered in their own way. Whenever prepping for an event, dinner or hosting opportunity, my mother, who now runs a successful event and floral design business, Windsor & Willow out of East Tennessee, always considers these six key things: the purpose of

the gathering, your guests, the season, what you have, what you’re serving and the vibe. I have watched her run through this list of questions as the holiday or event drew closer. She asks herself what the purpose of the gathering is for this group of guests at this specific time of year. She lays out the appropriate table setting, adds fresh greenery and pairs each dish with the correct serving vessel the night before. Finally, and most importantly, she considers the energy, formality and length of the event. She truly asks how she wants her guests to feel. This thought process stuck with me, keeps me from forgetting things and keeps the guests' experience at the center of the preparation. This year is my first year hosting in any real sense of the word. As I step into this new season of life, I am beginning to see behind the curtain of hosting and appreciate the worthwhile effort. The trappings and crucial elements required to host any number of guests can sometimes seem overwhelming. When selecting items for a wedding registry, there are certain boxes to check to start building this collection. These days, many brides are wary of including a large set of silver, crystal glassware and other finer things. After living with roommates for years, sharing the same set of dishes from Target, or observing as hosting at home has become more and more casual, it’s hard to envision an occasion when a set of china would be truly necessary. Elizabeth Malmo, interior designer and owner of Collected on Broad, went so far as to register for the same china that her mother has. Brilliantly, she now has a treasure trove to dip into if she needs an additional place setting

Orange glasses provided by Collected by Elizabeth Malmo.

Adding greenery under a place setting connects each setting to the centerpiece. Twisted candles and candle holders provided by Collected by Elizabeth Malmo.

or serving platter for a hosting occasion. Other newlyweds are not registering for a complete set of china or glassware but rather a limited number in case their tastes change and they want to incorporate new patterns and styles later in life. I, however, listened to my mother, motherin-law and grandmother-in-law’s counsel and included the formal standards on my own registry. They had the vision and experience to see the utility and the memories those pieces would soon hold for me. After using the glassware, silver and china for the first few times this past year, seeing it all collected on one table, I began to understand why people continue to host and prepare for their guests so intently. CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

As hosting styles and traditions change, it is important to remember the moments, memories and rituals that stand the test of time. My mother passed down her mother’s Limoge china set to me. The simple yet detailed green and gold pattern evokes memories of my grandmother filling gravy boats and wiping the edges of any rogue drops before setting them on the table. The memories tied to each physical piece of a table setting connect

“They had the vision and experience to see the utility and the memories those pieces would soon hold for me.”

Flowers by Garden District

H OST IN G T IP S | HOM E + DE S I GN

generations and will continue to be a part of traditions for years to come. This connection between gatherings across time and place adds a depth to the occasion that would otherwise fade into the background. One thing that will never change is the joy a beautiful table can bring guests. There are many ways to accomplish the goal of a welcoming holiday table. Floral arrangements and greenery elevate a table immediately. A long, flowing centerpiece that allows guests to chat easily across the table adds life and vibrancy. If you don’t want to make a large arrangement and would rather keep table space open for serving dishes, you can include greenery or blooms as a part of the place setting. Not only does this add interest to your table, but it also makes guests feel like the host personally considered each of them. Including a name card with a little “Thank you!” is another simple way to elevate each guest’s experience.

The vibrant flowers encourage a celebratory energy.

Always consider: the purpose of the gathering, your guests, the season, what you have, what you’re serving and the vibe.

Mixing new trends, colorful glassware, with traditional crystal adds personality to the table.

Whether your family enjoys decades-old traditions or starts new ones, hosting and gathering is a gift. Enjoying the company of family and friends, surrounded by fresh flowers, in front of a thoughtful place setting is a cherished experience that should always stand the test of time. The knowledge and traditions our mothers, grandmothers and their predecessors have taught us, through words, but more so by example, are things I am increasingly thankful for every year. Flowers provided by Garden District. Candles, votives and select glassware pieces compliments of Collected by Elizabeth Malmo.

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A SOPHISTICATED LOOK AT THE IDEAS, PLACES, PASSIONS AND LIFESTYLES OF PEOPLE WHO PROUDLY CALL THE SOUTH HOME.

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Black Artists in America From Civil Rights to the Bicentennial D I XO N G A L L E RY A N D G A R D E N S O CTO B E R 2 2 , 2 0 2 3 – J A N UA RY 1 4 , 2 0 2 4 Presented by the Joe Orgill Family Fund for Exhibitions Organized by Dixon Gallery and Gardens

4 3 3 9 PA R K AV E N U E MEMPHIS, TN 38117 W W W. D I XO N .O R G

CHARLES WILBERT WHITE, Fulfillment (detail), 1966; Oil on canvas; The John and Susan Horseman Collection, Courtesy of the Horseman Foundation © The Charles White Archives

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

TRANSFORMING TREASURES ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIT GARROTT

Crafting Bespoke Beauties from Beloved Family Gems The Art of Repurposing Heirloom Jewelry

Heirloom jewelry carries with it a rich history. Whether it's a cherished grandmother's diamond ring or a great-aunt's pearl necklace, these precious pieces are often imbued with memories of love, celebration and legacy. However, as times change and styles evolve, these heirlooms may find themselves tucked away, waiting for a new purpose. Skilled jewelers step in, breathing new life into these timeless treasures. Bill Ferrell, owner of Jewelers’ Choice is often called upon to repurpose special family pieces. Since 1990, Jeweler’s Choice has been a part of new beginnings and celebrations. Known for exquisite craftsmanship, creativity and valued customer relationships, many trust the Jeweler’s Choice team with giving family treasures new life. Indeed, many individuals possess jewelry that no longer suits their taste or lifestyle and turn to skilled artisans for transformation. Bill has clients come in for this service at least two-to-three times a month. "Some customers have an idea of what they would like," explains Bill, "but most need ideas of what will work." This is where expertise comes into play. A jeweler's eye can envision the potential of each piece, even when clients may be unsure. Reimagining a piece of jewelry is an art form in itself. Bill’s process and inspiration differ depending on the piece. "The process is much easier if all the diamonds or

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

colored stones are the same size, but that is not often the case," he shares. Understanding the client's style and preferences is crucial. "I start by understanding what the customer would wear more often, then, more ideas can be drawn from past custom jobs." When asked about the hardest part of the process, he notes, "Most customers can envision our thoughts for a new design, but sometimes drawings or computer imaging is a better way to show the customers how the final item will look." Clear communication and visualization tools are pivotal in ensuring the client's vision aligns with the jeweler's craftsmanship. "People often bring in cluster-designed rings," Bill reveals. "They want to repurpose these rings into a bracelet or necklace more in line with current trends." This shift toward versatility and contemporary aesthetics reflects the evolving tastes of the new generation while preserving the sentiment of the past. In the hands of a skilled jeweler, heirloom jewelry can evolve, finding a new place in the heart and wardrobe while preserving the cherished sentiments of generations past. So, consider the possibilities the next time that vintage jewelry box is opened—you may discover a beautiful story waiting to be rewritten.

JEWELER’S CHOICE

Trust the Process

1 | Unlocking the Possibilities 2.

After 24 years in the jewelry industry, Bill has seen the impact of maintenance. "Regular cleaning and polishing is essential, and keeping jewelry items separate when storing pieces will keep them from getting scratched or tangled." These simple practices can go a long way toward ensuring that heirloom pieces continue to shine brightly.

2 | Passing Down a Legacy When asked for tips on choosing a piece of jewelry to pass down eventually, Bill decidedly says, "Classic designs of solitaire rings, earrings or pendants." These timeless pieces tend to transcend fashion trends and remain beloved across generations.

3 | Reinventing Classics When you start with something classic, it's easy to see the vision for something a bit updated.

4 | The Art of Re-imagination "Customers know that they will always have a piece of jewelry from their family member even if we redesigned it," Bill says when working through the design process.

4. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

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Rachel's Kids Rachel’s Flower Shop is a familiar name to most Memphians. The business was created more than 65 years ago by Mark and Patricia Hammond, who started modestly with a small workroom on Poplar Avenue and named their business for their daughter Rachel. Rachel grew up working in the shop. “Daddy worked the outside of the store in his suspenders smoking a Parliament cigarette, mom worked the books and wrote a personal note to each customer and I created flower arrangements and manned the front desk,” she recalls.

What many Memphians might not know is that eponymous owner Rachel Greer is busy doing a lot more for our city than arranging flowers. Along with her late husband Harry, Rachel created an organization called Rachel’s Kids to help the children living in the Binghampton area. “We did not intend to start a nonprofit or to be surrounded by kids twenty four-seven. Harry and I thought we had successfully raised two children that were college bound and it was time to relax and play. Oh my, did the good Lord have a different plan for us when our shop relocated

EMBRACING BINGHAMPTON AND GAINING GRATITUDE

ARTICLE BY JEANNIE TABOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNER MORGAN

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to Binghampton and young boys aged seven to thirteen would come to the shop asking for work.” At first, Rachel and Harry were reluctant to allow the boys to work in the store. But the boys were persistent and they became staples at the shop, sweeping and helping customers to their cars. Gradually, the boys and their sisters and families became a more permanent fixture in Rachel’s and Harry’s lives. “Each afternoon when we left the store, the kids would wrestle one another to see how many could jump in our car and go home with us. We would take them swimming at my mom’s house and feed them. Those kids were always hungry. They could eat nonstop.” Once Rachel and Harry became involved in the children’s lives they realized the importance of living near them and investing in their community. So they bought a home in Binghampton and immersed themselves completely in the lives of the families who lived there. “Right away we began to realize that many of the children struggled in school, so we started a tutoring program well before we were a nonprofit. Lots of local high school students needed community hours and came to volunteer. I never realized that every kid did not have the advantage of getting poster boards, folders and markers for their school projects.” So Harry and Rachel helped them get the necessary school supplies as well as clothing and transportation to school and other activities. They attended church with the neighborhood kids. Rachel’s church, Central Christian, embraced the kids and sold them their church bus for $1 to help bring in as many kids as possible. “Harry and I knew most of the kids were not coming to church for the sermon but for the excursion after church to a new restaurant. But we were thrilled that they were hearing the same familiar message from all the many churches we attended: love your neighbor.” And love your neighbor is exactly what Rachel and Harry continued to do. They opened their store on Wednesdays, their day off, to support the Children with Disabilities Program in Memphis

city schools. The children were allowed to arrange flowers in beautiful vases with the help of Rachel’s many friends as volunteers. They helped John and Judy Lang open and run a free healthcare clinic in Binghampton, which has since closed. They even helped neighbors who had fallen on hard times purchase homes. “Harry and I realized that many of these families needed help. We were not independently wealthy and so we borrowed from our own home so that we could help families who deserved to be living in better environments purchase their own homes.” Now they are able to do even more with the help of generous donors and the creation of the nonprofit Rachel’s Kids. Through this organization, Rachel is able to help children attend summer camp, pay for portions of college tuition and fees and provide furniture and clothing that has been generously donated. I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel a few months ago. A friend told me that Rachel’s Flowers would gladly accept used floral containers. So, I cleaned out my attic and headed her way. We got into a long conversation about her passion for helping others while one of “Rachel’s kids” helped me haul the containers out of my car. Reflecting on the success of her floral business, Rachel credits the strong relationships that were formed with customers beginning with her parents. “The part of the business that I enjoy is building relationships with people. We have been there with our customers at some of the happiest times and some of the saddest moments.” Many of these customers are the most important providers of support for Rachel’s nonprofit. When I was in the store, Rachel told me about a young man from Binghampton who received a full scholarship to Vanderbilt. He wanted to go but couldn’t afford to buy the necessary items to furnish his dorm room. Rachel reached out to one of her customers to see if she would be willing to help. That customer was thrilled to be able to take the young man shopping to get all the items necessary to start the year off right.

While Rachel has given so much to the Binghampton Community, she is simply grateful for the opportunity to help.

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"We were not on a mission and not any type of ministry. We were just trying to do some good in the world and make a better place for these kids.” - Rachel Greer

Rachel Greer continues to build lasting relationships in the Binghampton community.

Betsy and Richard Shaw, together with their church Advent Presbyterian, began supplying boxes of Christmas cheer to 14 Binghampton families. About 10 years later they were wrapping and delivering gifts to over 700 families with the aid of 4 Suburbans and a trailer! There are numerous stories like these from churches and individuals around the city who connect with Rachel and want to touch the lives of those in need. At the store that day, Rachel lamented that not all of Rachel’s kids had found success. There have been prison sentences, drownings and shootings. She has attended a lot of funerals over the years. Rachel even told me about the time her car was stolen and she discovered that two of the young men involved were part of the Rachel’s Kids program. Rather than being angry, however, Rachel was sympathetic. “My favorite slogan is: ‘Don’t judge people for the choices they make if you don’t know the options they had to pick from.’” Rachel is well aware of the difficult situations many of these kids are experiencing. “I have seen the effects of drama in the home and what the kids must do just to survive. I have witnessed the sadness and

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effects of eviction that happen in my kids’ lives regularly. I saw the fear in their faces when they worried if they would have heat in the winter and a roof over their heads.” While Rachel has given so much to the community, she is grateful for the opportunity to help. “I give gratitude to the Lord every day for allowing this to be my path. I will forever be grateful to the people and the churches and the organizations who embraced us and gave me the opportunity to be in the lives of some of the finest kids and families. Step out of the box. It is slippery sometimes, but the reward of making a difference changes lives and will be what changes Memphis to be the loving and caring and safe city we all want it to be and know it is capable of being.” Rachel encourages our readers to shop locally. “Build a relationship with businesses in your neighborhood. Get involved with any organization that speaks to your heart, whether it is hands on or financially,” she urges. If you are interested in learning more or donating to Rachel’s Kids, please visit rachelskidsinc.org.

Rachel's Kids was created because young men from Binghampton showed up at the shop looking for work.

"Get involved with any organization that speaks to your heart.” - Rachel Greer

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Horsing Around

A RIDING RENAISSANCE ARTICLE BY MARGARET LEDBETTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNER MORGAN

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Enduring enthusiasm for equestrian sports in the River City begins with a love of horses. Its success for hundreds of years can be attributed to our temperate weather and abundant surrounding farmland and woods. From work horses to show horses, and hunter jumper barns to show grounds to polo fields, the greater Memphis area offers riders endless opportunities. The sports have attracted devoted riders for generations, and the COVID pandemic sparked a renewed interest in riding, which remained a safe, outdoor and wholesome family activity throughout the lockdowns. Virtually every barn in the area kept its programs alive and welcomed new riders at every level. One such barn, Spring Mill Farm, owned and operated by Dee and Dave Pellegrini for over 20 years, offers boarding, training, and the opportunity to compete for riders of all ages and abilities. Theirs is a love story: love of one another and of horses. Married almost 40 years, Dee and Dave are both accomplished competitive riders with many accolades and championships between them. With a skilled team of trainers, barn managers and grooms, they board almost 100 horses with meticulous care and train riders as young as six. The beginner riders train at Spring Mill’s sister farm, Aintree Farm Stables, where they learn basic horsemanship. “The horses pique the riders’ interest in the beginning and there is a natural progression to competition” says Dave. On more than 80 acres of land northeast of Memphis, Spring Mill offers 30 acres of outdoor riding, an outdoor ring, a lighted indoor ring and multiple viewing areas for students CONTINUED >

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A Spring Mill student prepares for a lesson

Spring Mill Farm boards 67 horses

and their friends and family. “The barn is one big happy family,” says Dave, and the feeling is shared among his enthusiastic clients. Riders get to compete against and among one another at the multiple shows in which the barns participate. “Competition allows for a regular report card,” says Dave. Students prove their hard work in the show ring under the trained eyes of judges, earning ribbons and points throughout the year. Multiple classes of competition provide opportunities for riders of every ability. Many Aintree and Spring Mill clients compete in local shows, like this month’s Harvest Time Show at Germantown Charity Horse Grounds, and

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Dee and Dave Pellegrini at Spring Mill Farm

the top students go on to compete at regional and national shows. Dave and his team customize training for each student and work to partner riders with the right mount to compete at the highest level or for sheer recreation. “Riding is a wholesome outlet for kids and great exercise, but it is also a great community,” says Dave. Horses do more than shows in the area these days. The Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy has been serving individuals with disabilities and hardship since 2015. All their programs are designed to improve clients’ quality of life through interaction with horses. Oak View Stables, another family-owned hunter jumper barn offers lessons and training and the WarHorse for Heroes program, providing equine therapy for Veterans. Building on Memphis equestrian traditions, a growing audience and local talent is “upping the ante for everyone to raise standards across the board,” according to Dave. CONTINUED >

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Abigail Arnold, a student at Spring Mill Farm, riding Keebler. Photo credit Jennifer Rypel Photography

Harvest Time Horse Show This month the annual Harvest Time Horse Show will once again be held at Germantown Charity Horse Show Grounds. Presented by the West Tennessee Hunter Jumper Association (WTHJA), the all-breed show includes multiple classes and levels of riders competing for themselves and their respective barns. The grounds will be in full flair with hundreds of riders, primarily from the Mid-South. The Show Grounds host multiple shows throughout the year, most notably the Germantown Charity Horse Show, which is held every spring and is the longest sporting event in Shelby County. For over 70 years, the show has provided exquisite competition and southern hospitality to fans, sponsors and exhibitors from all over the country. Since 1999, the Germantown Charity Horse Show has raised over $800,000 to support the organization as well as Kindred Place in Memphis which provides counseling and parenting education to children and families in the community.

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Store Credit THANK YOU AND HOSTESS GIFTS

Feather pins. Kittie Kyle, kittiekyle.com

ARTICLE BY AMY BIRDSONG GOLDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IZABELLA SANDOVAL Dear Susan, You are my magic feather during this Dumbo’s circus. Thank you for believing in me when I could not. Enclosed, a feather for your cap, jacket, or scarf. I am forever grateful for you. xx Mary Esther

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Vintage deviled egg trays. Flashback, flashbackmemphis.com

Estate Silver pieces. Consignments, Midtown

Athena Skillets Roaster. Metal Museum Store, metalmuseum.org/online-store

To James, Ralph Waldo Emerson says that he awakes each morning “with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new.” Best Thanksgiving with your fam – and special thanks for letting me sleep through the Turkey Trot. Yours forever, Leanna To my esteemed neighbor, I am hoping this gesture will make you fess up. What’s in them- is it champagne or apple cider vinegar? Dinner is more fun at your house and thank you for having us. Fondly, Reba CONTINUED >

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Blackthorn Forge Snake Mantel Clock. Metal Museum Store, metalmuseum.org/online-store

Guest book. Collected by Elizabeth Malmo, collectedbyelizabethmalmo.com

Dear Curtis, When you decided to bestow all that kindness – I am grateful it wasn’t random. Thank you for getting us through it. And most of all…your time. x The Benson Family To Ellie and Nelson, Thank you for having us to your beautiful new farm. I hope this doesn’t give you the confidence to start raising chickens; you do live in East Memphis full time. Love, Catherine

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