River City, TN August 2024

August - The Kids and Pets Issue, "100-Day Weekend"

We raise our kids to take risks and experience life beyond our hometown and familiar ways, but we also hope, on some level, that they will return to the River City with new skills and energy. Our children are our very best investment and hope for the future of our city.

Therefore, it’s a little bittersweet to write this lifestyle letter for the Kids and Pets issue as I send off my third and youngest child to college this month and look at empty nesting with aging fur babies.

Our family summers have always worked around visits with relatives and adventures with friends. This year was no different, as we spent three weeks in Africa and finish the summer with family up north. However, the River City has much to offer in summer, from music festivals, theatre, camps, sports, fireworks, and bountiful gardens. Looking forward to a fruitful canning season with all the tomatoes.

The 100-day weekend is open to adventures of all kinds: be it outdoor Pilates hosted by Ballet Memphis in the Overton Park Shell, matches at the incredible new Leftwich Tennis Center or star gazing at the Memphis Museum of Science and History. The long days remind us to seek adventure and air conditioning!

It’s all so fleeting as the days begin to shorten, sunflowers are planted for the fall dove hunts and the back-to-school rush begins. Then, we will be moving kids into various colleges. For my youngest, the designers of Elizabeth Malmo Interiors were heroes pulling together a dorm look with mood boards and monograms while my older boys just scavenged the many antique malls in town.

We are hopeful for a few more lazy days and farewell family dinners; perhaps a pizza at Fox Ridge, a burger at Huey’s or a final barbecue feast.

We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life as this 100-day weekend comes to a close. And keep your cool or take up bee keeping. Cheers.

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Christian Owen | christian.owen@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lindsey Tonkin | lindsey.tonkin@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Jeannie Tabor | jeannie.tabor@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Bonner Morgan | bonner.morgan@citylifestyle.com

MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

Malise Culpepper | malise.culpepper@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Amy Birdsong Golden, Margaret Ledbetter, Morgan Zanone

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Mary Demere

INTERN

Maude Burrow

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Sarah Voigt Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Duevall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster Learn

Dr. Owen Tabor, Jr.’s patients rate him a 4.9/5 stars! He is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement. He has also been involved in research related to hip and knee replacement, including a long-term follow-up study of unicompartmental arthroplasty (partial knee replacement). When patients need an empathetic, capable orthopedic specialist to help get them back to the lifestyle they love, Dr. Tabor is often their first choice.

Mix Old Dominick and Community Foundation to protect the Memphis Aquifer. Scan QR code artwork with your phone for this refreshing story.

Free Music for the Whole Fam

The Orion Free Concert Series kicks off their fall line-up at the Overton Park Shell beginning August 30th. Local, national and international acts grace the historic stage where legendary talent has left a timeless legacy. Picnic baskets, beverages, blankets and lawn chairs are welcome as well as dogs on leashes in the designated, dog-friendly PUPPY BAR. Soak up the sounds under the stars with the whole family! overtonparkshell.org/freeconcertseries

Slimetastic Kids Play Lab

When you need an indoor creative activity for the children in your life, slide over to Slimetastic's Cordova or Collierville location where you can choose your gooiest experience and leave the mess with the professionals. The lab is great for parties or rainy-day sensory play! kidsplaylab.com

Running a multi-generational business requires steady leadership and lasting relationships. When my brother and I purchased the business from our father, we made the decision to keep our business with i-bank—a valued relationship we counted on while we more than doubled the size of our business. For over 20 years now, we've trusted i-bank to be in our corner.

Scot Berry Co-Chairman, Memphis Communications Corporation (MCC)

Start your story with i-bank today, and find out why being proudly independent is the most rewarding way to bank.

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Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Lots of Redbirds home games are slated at Autozone Park this month. America's favorite pastime is fun for the whole family. Don't miss the Kids Zone offering free inflatables and face painting throughout the games and Sundays are Prairie Farms Ice Cream Sundays. Children 12 and under will receive a free ice cream sandwich upon entering the gate and post-game they can even run the bases just like the pros! milb.com/memphis

Liquor

General Admission | $70

Includes 40+ sakes, and a delicious sushi roll, composed of several different rolls from 6pm-8pm

Erīto VIP Access | $100

Includes everything from the General Admission ticket, with an extra hour of access from 5-6pm, plus exclusive sakes and other surprise options, and a unique Erīto-only sushi roll.

JOE’S WINES &

LIQUOR

Backyard Honeybee Keepers

ARTICLE BY JEANNIE TABOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Imported from Europe in the 17th century, the honeybee has developed an almost cult-like following, with an estimated 120,000 beekeepers across the US.

When asked what kind of people keep bees, Dax Torrey, two-time defending champion honey producer, said, “The common thread is people who have an appreciation for how nature works.” Torrey grew up on a farm in Millington, TN. When he moved into the city, he initially couldn’t understand why his garden didn’t do as well. Then he realized there were very few bees around. “It’s all about pollination. That’s what bees do. Without bees, we would have major problems with our food sources.” In fact, California almond growers import billions of honeybees each year to pollinate their trees.

Craig Christenbury says he became interested in honeybees around 2015. “I got into it not knowing what I was doing and fell in love with it. You discover how unique this insect is and what an incredible organism a bee colony is. The more you learn, the more you want to know.”

Two years ago, Craig and his wife, Brooke, took over a small business that supplies local stores with honey they produce on their Williston, TN property.

Like wine, the taste and color of honey is determined by location and climate. The primary determinant is the source of the nectar, a sugar-rich fluid produced by flowers that bees take for energy and feed to their young. The bees process the nectar into honey, which they store in the hive for later use. Beekeepers take some of the excess honey but leave behind enough for the hive to survive and thrive.

Getting the honey from the hive to the jar is an arduous task. The beekeeper has to don a sweaty, goofy-looking “bee suit,” introduce some smoke into the hive to distract the bees and gently remove some of the honey-laden frames, which can weigh up to 50 pounds. Then, the hard work of separating and filtering the honey and storing it in an appropriate container begins. According to Albert Alexander, it is an all-day, exhausting, sticky, and ultimately joyous job.

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The complexity of the organization and decision-making of a bee colony has long fascinated biologists and social scientists.

The East Memphis home of Albert and Kathie Alexander is a veritable bee oasis. Albert’s love of beekeeping stems from all the little things the bees have taught him. “They like a low-stress environment, so we keep hive disruptions to a minimum—a lot of beekeepers like to make frequent adjustments and move things around in their hives. We planted clustered mountain mint, a bullet-proof pollinator the bees love. It attracts a wide variety of bees, including types I have never seen before. When bees swarm, you

have to bring them back to the hive. If you are lucky enough to get the queen back in, all the other bees will immediately follow suit.”

Honeybees have long fascinated deep thinkers—from biologists who marvel at the process of honey production to social scientists who are amazed at the decision-making complexity of a bee colony. Beekeepers disagree on many topics about bee management and honey production, but they all agree on one thing: the end product tastes great!

Deceptively Delicious

ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT

Two recipes that hide veggies in kid-friendly favorites

There are many ways to disguise vegetables in everyday recipes for children. From peanut butter and raisins on a celery stalk to tossing just enough spinach into a fruit smoothie, parents have gotten very creative over the years. Hidden vegetables and veiled nutritious value can be easy one day and called out immediately by a picky eater the next.

Here are two great options for sneaking in veggies while satisfying the most discerning young palate.

Pasta and Meatballs ingredients:

Try it with chickpea pasta for added protein or with cauliflower gnocchi for another veggie element.  Makes 24 meatballs

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 carrot, grated

• 1 red bell pepper, grated

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or one tablespoon minced fresh)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• 1 pound lean ground turkey breast

directions:

Step 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet with cooking spray, foil or parchment paper.

Step 2. Beat the egg in a large bowl. Add all other ingredients except for the turkey and mix well. Add the ground turkey and combine well.

Step 3. Shape the mixture into balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

Step 4. Add the cooked meatballs to 1-2 jars pasta sauce of your choice and continue to cook until meatballs are cooked through.

This sweet treat tastes as good as it looks but with an added bonus of healthy fats!

Brownies ingredients:

• 2 medium, ripe avocados

• ½ cup pure maple syrup

• ¼ cup raw granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ cup whole wheat flour

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

directions:

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Step 2. Lightly grease a 8 x 8 baking dish

Step 3. In a food processor, add the avocado, maple syrup and sugar. Blend well.

Step 4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix in any ingredients that stick to the sides of the food processor as you blend.

Step 5. Slowly add in the flour, baking soda, salt and cocoa and mix well.

Step 6. Turn off the processor and remove the blade. Stir in the chocolate chips using a spoon or spatula.

Step 7. Spread the batter evenly into the pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Test the middle of the batter with a knife or toothpick to be sure it comes out clean.

Step 8. Remove from heat and let cool before cutting into your favorite shape of the moment!

Family First

A renovation inspired by generations

In the heart of every home lies a story woven together by the threads of family ties and shared memories. It is this essence that transforms mere brick and mortar into a sanctuary of love and belonging. Nowhere is this sentiment more palpable than in the ambitious undertaking of renovating and restoring a sprawling 6,000+-squarefoot residence. But what sets apart such a monumental project is not just the craftmanship or the vision; it’s the infusion of familial bonds that breathe life into every corner, turning it into a labor of love for all involved.

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Picture this: an architect meticulously sketching plans, not just a professional job, but as a cherished family friend. Their relationship transcends blueprints; it’s rooted in shared experiences, a deep understanding of each other’s dreams and a relationship forged from a prior architectural adventure when the homeowner’s mother built a much-loved family home in Sea Island, Georgia.

John Shackelford, a celebrated Georgia architect, hit it “out of the park” creating that vacation home years ago. He also became a cherished friend to the eldest daughter. So, when it came time to reimagine the daughter’s east Memphis family home, there was no question who would lead the charge.

John hopped on a plane headed to Memphis!

The familial connections don’t end there. Every aspect of the renovation project for this nearly half-century-old home is imbued with personal significance. Their decorator, Elizabeth Malmo, owner of Collected interior design firm, was chosen not just for her expertise, but for her close relationship with the owners’ grown children. Elizabeth’s guidance for living spaces that welcome an ever-growing family brings a touch of

youthful exuberance to every design decision. It’s not just about aesthetics; it is about capturing the essence of family gatherings and laughter echoing through the halls. “Elizabeth just has a firsthand experience of how this family lives,” says the homeowner.

Similarly, the contractor, Wilson Baird with FG3 Construction, was handpicked from a circle of trusted friends. He also grew up with the owners’ grown children. Consequently, he approached this project with a sense of responsibility that goes beyond professional obligations. He absolutely created a space where memories can continue to be made for generations to come.

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And then there are the subtle yet meaningful touches that speak volumes about the power of familial bonds. An aged, stained-glass window, once treasured by best friends, finds new life within the walls of this renovated home. It is a poignant reminder that every piece of the puzzle, no matter how small, carries with it a story waiting to be told. In the midst of this grand renovation journey, another chapter unfoldsone of shared experiences and cherished moments. The owners’ youngest son, wife and three children found solace and comfort within the walls of this, their parents’ home while undergoing major renovations of their own home. For a year, they called this place their own, embracing every opportunity to create new memories. From swimming lessons in the pool to picnics on the grounds and bocce ball tournaments at the newly installed court, every corner of the home became a canvas for family bonding.

But perhaps the most cherished moments have been the ones spent on the screened porch, where generations have gathered for evening jigsaw puzzles and games. It is here that laughter echoes the loudest and bonds grow strongest, a testament to the enduring power of home and family.

Contributing writer Denise Ware is a realtor with Ware Jones Real Estate Company and is responsible for connecting this home with its new owners, who are her lifelong, family friends - yet another example of the familial relationships represented in the creation of a new chapter for this engaging home.

It’s not just about aesthetics; it is about capturing the essence of family gatherings and laughter echoing through the halls.

NEW TO ME TN is your local Memphis online destination for upscale furniture, lighting, rugs, art and accessories. We can help you find the perfect pieces for your home or sell the pieces you are replacing when redecorating or downsizing.

New To Me TN would like to introduce our new consultant Lizzie Campbell. Her love of antiques and interior decor and Ashley Baine's expertise are certain to make your shopping and selling experiences even more seamless.

You can shop directly from our site, Newtometn.com. There you can sign up to receive emails about our newest drops. You can also follow us on Instagram V@newtometn

THE DOGHOUSE SCHOOL

STAY, PLAY AND GET CREATIVE

A popular Memphis school on Summer Avenue asks their parents to name which famous character or personality reminds them of their child during orientation. Class studies include arts and crafts, journal entries, computer skills, field trips, theme days, theater and more--all for dogs--including yearbook photos.

Their programming reads more like an accredited preschool. In a typical week, you might find the dogs having a foam party, stretching with yoga, diving into the bone pool or the mud pit, visiting with special guests like horses (real ones) and dinosaurs (in costume). And the arts and crafts? Made with paw prints in tempera paint, of course.

To commemorate milestones, achievements and life events, the dog pupils earn badges that are affixed to their school bag. Inside, journal entries document their day in each dog’s voice. Perhaps a certain student overcame a fear of water or met a new friend.

The school’s founder, Hayley Efird Horn, is an industry disruptor. The Doghouse School provides daycare, boarding and even canine carpool on its magic school bus, but with a highly creative and personal twist.

“When we started this new kind of experience for dogs, we created a system of operations that revolves around the power of creativity and the belief that dogs are unique individuals with an array of personalities and needs, just like us. So, we approach each day and moment with the thinking, ‘What would a dog want, say, decide, etc.?’ and apply that thinking to each dog because it’s not the same for all,” says Hayley, an advertising and branding industry veteran.

“The Doghouse exists because of Pete— my forever creative muse and the former headmaster. It was founded and continues to operate on the power that creativity has on people, places, animals, interactions and experiences,” she adds.

@thedoghouseschool

Progress Report from Hayley

From day one, we wanted people to understand that we are here to offer a new kind of experience. We aren’t like anyone else. Why else embark on this adventure if we were just going to do the same old thing?

A place that gives you the feeling of visiting a friend’s house, not going to a facility. A place where messy is good… mud feels right… and being you is a good thing.

Dogs are highly emotional and intelligent animals and thrive on learning new things and engaging in new experiences in safe environments. We’ve witnessed this over the past six years and look forward to seeing much, much more wherever the future takes us.

Passing Notes in Class

Erin’s journey from a young employee to the CEO is a testament to her hard work, intelligence and passion.

She has an uncanny knack for understanding the needs of our clients and their beloved pets, ensuring that our daycare remains a trusted haven for them. Erin’s leadership style is inclusive and empowering, fostering a work environment where every team member feels valued and motivated.

Her story is a beautiful reminder that age is no barrier to leadership, and that true dedication and passion can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Together we run a place built on love, trust and the unwavering belief in each other’s potential.

-

Hayley, Founder and Owner of The Doghouse School

MIDTOWN 3050 Walnut Grove Rd. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 458-8000

9155 Poplar Ave. Suite #25 Germantown, TN 38138 (901) 624-6773

7980 Fischer Steel Cordova, TN 38018 (901) 754-6161

mobile: 646-898-6901

office: 901-754-0800

margaret@modernmemphishomes.com www.modernmemphishomes.com

Fox Ridge Pizza

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS

Celebrating 45 years of success is quite a milestone, especially in the restaurant industry. Owner Lisa Seelig Gibbs is proud of this accomplishment, adding, “It is a terrific feeling knowing we have been able to serve our community for 45 years! I love visiting with loyal customers who have been enjoying Fox Ridge since the beginning and, of course, meeting new customers too.”

On Brookhaven Circle, Fox Ridge is more than just a purveyor of delicious pizza. The menu is quite comprehensive, including a wide variety of specialty sandwiches, burgers, meat and veggie plates, crispy catfish baskets and a full menu for little foxes (under 10). In addition to a great list of local beers, including Meddlesome Brewing Company’s 201 Hoplar and Wiseacre Brewing Co’s Tiny Bomb, they are serving up some creative specialty cocktails. Look for Old Dominick Distillery spirits in the Memphis Grind, with blue Curaçao for flavor and color and their Tennessee Lemonade. Other customer favorites are the Fox Trot, a blend of Maker’s Mark, amaretto and Sprite and their blackberry jalapeno margarita.

Lisa’s path to ownership is quite impressive. At age 15, she was manning the drive-through window at Danvers, and by 17, she was the store manager. After that, Lisa worked alongside owner Bill Vest at the original Fox Ridge Pizza location in Cordova and purchased the restaurant in 2014. Since then, her daughter Jordan Dorl has become involved in the operation and is being groomed to take over. Lisa adds, “It is nice to have someone you know and trust to take over the family business. Jordan handles most of the day-to-day operation now, and we have a lot of fun together.”

When Lisa is not at Fox Ridge, she likes to spend time at the lake with her husband and grandkids. She also enjoys kickboxing and reading. “I have a great team, so my schedule is flexible and allows me to do most of the things I want to do. Jordan works around the needs of the business, which allows her to be present for her four kids and their activities.”

Head to Fox Ridge to enjoy a fresh slice of bacon chicken ranch pizza and a cold glass of rosé or unsweetened tea. Bring your whole family – Lisa’s may be there as well!

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On Brookhaven Circle, Fox Ridge is more than just a purveyor of delicious pizza.

DAVID LUSK GALLERY

97 Tillman . Memphis

RED GROOMS