Cooper-Young Festival offers the best shopping in town

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VOLU M E xix, N U M B E R xi FREE

w w w.cooper young.org
C o o p e r -Yo u n g — M a n y Vo i c e s , O n e C o m m u n i t y

STiLL STRONG

Cooper-Young
Festival offers
the best shopping
in town
TA M A R A W A L K E R
They start calling in February with their
questions, like “How do i get a booth?,” or “i
heard this is the best Festival to sell jewelry, is
that right?” or “Can i be on the corner between
Evelyn and Elzey?” or with even stranger
requests like, “Can i bring my snake?” or “do i
have to go online to fill out an application like
everyone else?” and i love them all. They
spend a lot of time making the unique items
that draw people from all over Memphis and
surrounding states to the Cooper-Young
Festival annually in September.
Some have been with us for years, like the
Certo italian Handcraft gentleman and his wife
who make the little stick figures out of metal;
some of the figures are playing golf, while
others are on a sailboat. Or like, Daniel
Gilbreath from Olive Branch, who is a new
vendor this year with his acrylic paintings and
sculptures. But they all have one thing in
common; they love what they do and they
want others to see and love it too. And i do
love their art. i love to stand and watch the
silent street go from nothing to total mayhem
at 7 a.m. when all the artists descend in a
flurry—it is my favorite thing about the
Festival. it means the Festival is born again; we
wouldn’t have a Festival without the artists. So
here’s to them. Thank you for helping us
make this Festival the largest, single-day event
in Memphis annually.
The Festival will be held on Saturday,
September 13 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. with a
rain date of Sunday, September 14. i think
that the Festival has only been rained out
once or twice in the last twenty-one years and
personally i don’t expect rain this year either.
So, as they say, let the party begin. The
Children’s Area is being hosted by the Civitans
this year, located by the Memphis Literacy
Council with Cadence Bank and Lenny’s Sub
Shop as co-sponsors. Staff from Dixon
Galleries and the Natural Learning School will
be in the area to give hands-on assistance to
the children while they paint their own
masterpieces. There will be games of chance,
bounces, free balloons and prizes.
With over 370 vendor booths lining Cooper
Street from Elzey to Walker and Young Avenue
Continued on page 18

September 2008 LampLighter 1
inside
CYCA General Meeting

Meetings
September 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
at the Community Offices at 2298
Final appeal

15
Young Avenue.
For the last several months, the This meeting is all about preparing
Cooper-Young Community Association, for the Cooper-Young Festival Friday
the Rozelle Annesdale Area Association, and
4-Miler and the Festival.
many area residents have come together to
We will fold t-shirts, stuff run bags,
oppose plans for a small lot at the corner of
and deliver flyers along the race route.
Lamar and McLean. The property’s owner will
Registered volunteers may pick up
lodge her final appeal at an upcoming Memphis
their volunteer t-shirts at this
City Council meeting.
meeting.
Parents in CY

9
CYCA Board Meeting
Neighborhood moms are coming
September 16 at 7 p.m. at the
together to start a CY Parents Network.
community offices at 2298 Young Ave.
They envision a web-based forum where
Cooper-Young parents can post information about
GREETiNGS:
playgroups, discussion groups, family outings/
Cooper Young Organizations
September is always the craziest month of the year here in events, and recommendations for things like CYCA
Cooper-Young. Crazy and Exciting. We have our Cooper Young pediatricians, restaurants, and babysitters. Maggie Cardwell
Community Association 4-Miler on Friday, August 12, starting and 901-272-2922
Five alive

10
ending at the Trestle Art on Cooper. This event raises much-needed info@cooperyoung.org
funds to keep CYCA on track for its almost $90,000 yearly budget. Goner Records has announced the CYBA

Get involved by coming on down or throwing a “Light the Way” lineup for its fifth annual music festival, Tamera Walker
held from September 25 to 28. This is the fifth 901-276-7222
party and cheer on the runners. Register your party at info@
year for the festival, which will include three cyba@bellsouth.net
CooperYoung.com and get judged on spirit. On Saturday, there is
CYDC
evening showcases at the Hi-Tone, a Saturday
the CY Festival where thousands of visitors come to find that Sutton Mora Hayes
afternoon two-stage concert at Murphy’s, opening
one-of-a-kind item to accessorize their homes, offices, gardens or any other places they would 901-272-1459
and closing shows at Goner Record Shop, and
accessorize. This event is hosted by the Cooper-Young Business Association. Come by our sutton_cydc@bellsouth.net
various day shows and art shows throughout the
booth and get your official Festival t-shirt, CY membership, CY Plaque or other CY flying CYCA Board Officers
weekend. President Debbie Sowell
goodies (is that enough of a teaser for you?). Volunteer opportunities are available at these
Extras Vice-President John Kinsey
functions, so call/email the office or visit during our office hours to sign up.
Secretary Andy Ashby
Remember this is also the last year for the Mid-South Fair at its current location. Sad, yes, Art Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Treasurer Jason Word
but exciting to find out what the future can hold for the redevelopment at the Fairground site. Bookworm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 CYCA Committee Heads
Try to be extra careful with all the foot traffic to come that last week of September with the Breakfast at Tiffany’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Beautification Andy Ashby
fair patrons. Code Enforcement Joe France
Chatterbox
Block Clubs Robert Grisham
i would be remiss if i did not mention Kiah Pickering. He passed away recently and rather Crime Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Communications Emily Bishop
suddenly. He was just starting to get involved in the association and was creating much CYCA News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Safety Education Edmund Mackey
excitement on a newly formed block club on Elzey. Our thoughts and prayers are with his Green by Proxy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Festival 4-Miler Richard Coletta,
family, friends and neighbors. The community will miss him. Lifelong Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Michael Ham,
Alan Ray
Midtown Mama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Membership John Kinsey
Debbie Sowell Music Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Volunteer Council Open
Pet Column. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Yard of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Contributors email@cooperyoung.org
Kristy Alley, Rich Bullington, Deborah Camp, The LampLighter has changed its email contact

Maggie Cardwell, Jane Croy, Jon Devin, Jenifer Eoff, information. We have adopted new email addresses
Staff and Volunteers
Mandy Grisham, Sutton Mora Hayes, Zac ives, at our domain. To contact editorial or content, please
Founder Janet Stewart
Editor Cathleen Cox Zeanah Kelly Jackson, Whitney Jo, Sam Kernell, D. Jackson email lamplighter@cooperyoung.org. To contact
Layout Bradley Payne Maxwell, Kavita Pillai, Kimberly Richardson, billing: billing@cooperyoung.org. To contact adver-
Business Manager Chris McHaney Anthony Siracusa, Debbie Sowell, tising: ads@cooperyoung.org and for questions about
Distribution Rich Bullington distribution contact distribution@cooperyoung.org.
Benn Stebleton, Melissa Anderson Sweazy,
Photographer Miriam Dolin
Mike Taylor, Tamara Walker, Lisa Williamson,
Ad Managers Chris McHaney Deadlines for October LampLighter
Debbie Sowell Cathleen Cox Zeanah
Articles, submissions: September 15
Cover: Elizabeth Beard-Ward Advertising copy: September 20
Content 901-272-2922 lamplighter@cooperyoung.org Distribution beginning: October 5
Ad Sales 901-359-1696 ads@cooperyoung.org Please send all articles and submissions to: lamp-
Distribution 901-726-4635 distribution@cooperyoung.org lighter@cooperyoung.org. For advertising rate sheet,
The LampLighter is published by the CYCA. The opinions and information presented here are or to submit ads electronically, please email:
those of the staff and volunteers of the LampLighter and do not necessarily reflect the entire ads@cooperyoung.org
Cooper-Young community. The LampLighter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
However, we commit ourselves to providing current and accurate information.

2 LampLighter September 2008
CYCA N E W S

Green grass Changes at LampLighter
C AT H L E E N C O x Z E A N A H
The community playground at Peabody School finally
i would like to take this opportunity to
has green grass next to the new play equipment. The sod
introduce myself to the Cooper-Young
was installed during the hot dry July weather and was
community as the new LampLighter editor.
quickly dying. it was saved due to the dedicated efforts of
i was delighted when asked to take on the
Cooper-Young resident Jason Whitworth who has lived
role as editor for the newspaper because
across from the school on Young Avenue since 1997.
as a lifelong Memphian, i have a great
Jason brought the situation to the attention of the CYCA
affinity for my hometown.
and Peabody School and volunteered to oversee the
After attending Lambuth University in
watering around the clock during those first critical days.
Jackson, Tennessee, i moved back to
Jason is an attorney whose private practice is located on
Memphis and began freelancing for local
Cooper Street and focuses on business litigation and
publications. Soon after, i enrolled in
personal injury. Jason is pictured with his children Autumn
graduate school at the University of
age thirteen and Graham age five who enjoy the new
Memphis to study English and creative
playground regularly. Thanks Jason for stepping up and
writing. After completing a Master’s
taking care of Cooper-Young’s community playground.
degree, i now teach literature and writing
Brick dedication planned for October at the high school and college level.
The community playground at Peabody School was made possible by a grant from Kaboom, a Having a great passion for both Midtown Memphis and writing, i knew taking the position as
national non-profit, and Home Depot their corporate sponsor. The Cooper-Young Community the LampLighter editor would be an exciting endeavor. My husband, John, and i are proud to be a
Association partnered with Peabody School to apply for the grant which required the CYCA to pay small part of this great community, and we have adored our thriving neighborhood and gracious
$10,000. Most of the money was raised by the sale of personalized bricks which are scheduled to neighbors since we moved to our beautiful Cooper-Young street.
be installed mid September. A dedication ceremony is being planned for mid October and the We have lived in the neighborhood for over a year now. in that time, we have begun a search
details will be announced in the October LampLighter. for an old Cooper-Young t-shirt with a slogan of pride that we understand completely. it reads: “A
bad day in Cooper-Young is better than any day in Germantown.”
Yards of the month
i look forward to writing and editing for the LampLighter and i hope to highlight topics of
September’s yard of the month (west of Cooper) goes to Cathy Allen at 2082 Felix. The
particular interest to you, such as our local artists, in our newspaper. Although i am sure there will
perfectly manicured lawn of zoysia complements the front beds that are bordered by perfectly
be a few bumps now and then, i hope the editor transition will be a smooth one.
placed stones. The front yard has a variety of flowers, including lamb’s ears, black-eyed susans,
Courtney Miller Santo has been a fantastic editor for the last three years. i hope i am able to
caladiums and hostas. Filling out the space are boxwood and althea shrubs, fire power nandina
fill her shoes well as the new LampLighter editor.
and sedum plants. Rose bushes line the side of the house and although not pictured, the back
yard consist of crape myrtles, white azaleas, butterfly bush, roses, white and red peonies, hostas
and claudius. Cathy has lived in Cooper-Young for eight years, has been a volunteer for the CY
Festival and believes that Midtown’s Cooper-Young is Memphis. Cathy enjoys working in her yard
and keeping it well maintained, as evidenced by how beautiful it always looks. Congratulations
Community Spirit
and thank you for keeping Cooper-Young lovely.
For east of Cooper, the winner is 1064 Blythe, which is the home of Randle K. Witherington.
He writes: it is great to have the recognition and confirmation that people still enjoy my garden. it Mission Our purpose is to form an association of residents and interested
is a pleasure to work in it, a marvelous release of stress, and wonderful exercise. Over the past parties to work together to make our diverse and historic community a
twenty-five years that i have happily lived on Blythe it has been a joke that every plant in the yard more desirable and safer place to live, worship, work, and play.
has been moved at least three times. This may seem extreme for some, but it is somewhat true.
Just like people, plants grow and the surrounding environment changes and a lot happens in
Help plant the seeds
of community
twenty-five years.
There has recently been a radical change in my garden brought about by the removal of a
large Southern Magnolia in the side yard. The magnolia was about seventeen years old and
and join the
taking over all the space and sunlight in that area. i was not responsible for planting it because
the side yard was not mine at the time. it was a hard decision to make but i am very pleased with CYCA today!
the results. The magnolia was replaced with four European Hornbean trees which are very
sculptural and in proper scale with the house and yard. Also i added two new shrubbery beds. Enclosed is a check for my membersip in the Cooper Young Community Association
One is full of decorative large grasses and the other has azaleas irises and other flowers. All of this New Renewing individual – $15 Household – $20
is aligned to a central axis focusing on a Blue Spruce in the front part of the yard. Senior 55 and older – $5 Trestle Tender – $50
Drive by take a look and thank you for the recognition.
Name _______________________________________________________________________________

Address ________________________________________________ Zip __________________________

Phone _______________________________________________ Email __________________________
i want to hear about volunteer opportunities

Enclosed is my gift of $ _________________________________________________________________

in honor or/in memory of ______________________________________________________________

Enclosed is my gift of $___________________ for the General Operating Fund
Mail this form with your payments to:
CYCA Membership, 2298 Young Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104
You can also join online at www.cooperyoung.org. The CYCA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
1064 Blythe (left) and 2082 Felix (right)

September 2008 LampLighter 3
PHEE LYV
W L A Y LD A O S E • Bikes grow business. Bike and pedestrian friendly neighborhoods are profitable places to

holiday line people
Playhouse on the Square features entertaining people with money and benefitup without money. Memphis retains a
Bringing the line up
ntertaining holidaybiking lifestyle of
do business.
• Bikes attract
Copenhagen to Cooper-Young
COU RTN EY OLIVE R diminishing tax base through continual annexation, but creating a network of bicycle paths
in the city limits would attract and retain a professional class of young people eager to pay
ANTHONY SiRACUSA
tax dollars to continue smart growth in the city. bottom three ﬂoors and offer your suggestions
planning for the
The holiday season has arrived, planning for the bottom three ﬂoors and“The Producers”, the
right! offer your suggestions
he critically acclaimed musical months, community means old favorites, of Cooper-Young have begun the critically acclaimed musical
Over the last two which leaders and citizens
new1968 processthe same installing the first are playing atinside informative, adapted include Mel Brooks’ 1968 ﬁlm of the same
m Mel Brooks’planning ﬁlm of just plain
favorites and aimed at enjoyable the top bicycle lanes fun, i-240. Bicycles are assets to
for shows two. It will be comedy and will by from • Bikes reduce crime. Bicycles and for the top two. It human fun, informative, and will include more
pedestrians mean will be traffic, and human traffic means
people on the streets
arching ontocommunity life, stage. no addition, Playhouse also Memphis, can we know how bicyclesmarching onto the Playhouse stage. more of the time looking out for the welfare of themselves, their families
the Playhouse Square.
Playhouse on thebut with In current bike facilities in an-
holiday refreshments. name, ﬁnally comes will holiday refreshments.
and their neighborhood. don’t hold up people on busy sidewalks. They do under
nounced its previously top-secret summermore information, please contact Jackie a glimpse into the theatrical producers scheme CriminalsFor more information, please contact Jackie Nicholsitat
affect our cultural, scheme For musical show–it’s the oceanIt’s New York in 1959 and two
9 and two theatrical producers social and economic life? A glance across provides Nichols at
g interests “The Broadway ﬂop—a
in a Producers.”
bicycle’s potential. Broadway night 725-0776 or around.
to get rich by overselling interests in athe cover ofﬂop—a when there are few peopleemail jackie@playhouseonthesquare.org.
725-0776 or email jackie@playhouseonthesquare.org.
This year’s holiday shows of Copenhagen converted its main street, The Stroget, into a car-free Hitler: A Gay Romp with Adolf
Gay Romp Danish city
me For Hitler: Ain 1962, thewith Adolf include:
Upcoming auditions musical titled “Springtime For Upcoming auditions
in Cooper-Young, our nightlife, thriving business district, and neighborhood history create an
in December 3 Playhouse lanes and creating walkable
en.” But complications arise when the architectthrough December 23city planner, described the impact on But complications arise when the bike lanesOn Memphis. installing bikewill hold auditions for its
“A Year With Frog and Toad” runs and December 3 Playhouse will and Eva at Berchtesgaden.”
thoroughfare. Jan Gehl, an On world-renowned at hold auditions for its excellent starting place for
the roaring Playhouse. all this on theupcomingseries ofthere was no“Trailer Park.” Callbacks turnsbe to besidewalks will enhance an already upcoming shows “Scapin”abet neighborhoodCallbacks will beoff
ns out to be Copenhagen. “When
a Based
Circuit success. Drawing startedbeloved shows “Scapin”by
forty years ago, show unexpectedly and out
books and culture of public space will public a roaring success. Drawing healthy business district, and “Trailer Park.” efforts to stave
on Tuesday December 4 at 6 the Adults auditioning the
ver-the-topArnold Lobel andsaid: ‘We are not italians, we are Danes. Frog 6 p.m.on ridiculous accents, over-the-top crime, and build show public space aesthetic communicated byp.m. railroad trestle and for “Trailer
life. Everybody an aquatic odd couple: overly conﬁdent it4 at never work here. it’s for the Southern
caricatures, of show on Tuesday December will Adults auditioning for “Trailer caricatures, and on the
and his best and here the mentalityPark” willatmingling to sing streets…’” The street was filled with was Cooper-Young Square. The installation ofwill be asked to sing sixteenthis monthmusical theatre
Europeans, friend.winning a and Sundays be asked in the sixteenbusinessain-jokes, the musical
musical was a hit in New York, Saturdays is not for 2 p.m. bars of musical theatre a hit in New York, winning a Park” new bike racks, beginning bars of a with an installation
record-breaking auditioning song, preferably of the country/rock genre. Adults auditioning
shops and restaurants, and bordered by preferably Circuit Square” and genre. Adults twelve Tony Awards. front of Café Ole, lends an artistic aesthetic to the numerous practical benefits of the bicycle.
song, 23 King’s New
Tony Awards. “Plaid Tidings” runs through December“Theat the of the country/rock City Hall on either end. in
Playhouse.Square collectively cried for “Scapin” willafraid that to read from theProducers” runs at Playhouse Cooper Square June 20 to
at Playhouse on the owners June 20
Business This endearing to charming plaid-clad be asked their days “The numbered. City
and out in dismay, quartet were script. on the acts as a nexus between east Memphis andasked to read from the more connectivity
for “Scapin” will be Downtown, providing script.
from “Forever Plaid”breath. For for a nostalgic holiday the north, Park” Playhouse is hiring bicyclists and walkers to
than any other street in Midtown. On For “Trailer Cooper Street will connect one to three adult
July 20, Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at
officials held their are transported back “Trailer Park” Playhouse is hiring one to three adult
ugh Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at
in contrast, and the CSx rail line only four blocks from the park; and
2 p.m. The Preview performance isOverton Park, Vollintine Evergreen,female singer/actors, Ages mid-twenties to mid-forties,to the
extravaganza. Gehl at 8 average Copenhageners found Ages mid-twenties to“Then shopkeepers
formance is Thursday, June 19 said female singer/actors, the idea interesting. mid-forties, and Thursday, June 19 at 8
adult male singer/actors, Madison Ave., to to mid-forties. from
found is they were doingJanuaryeconomically. Then the next streetp.m. closed. mid-forties. Can performance is Thursday, June 26 connectivity to downtown via ages mid-twentiesOverton SquareFor
was The to And then every
“Seussical” runs through better adult Playhouse on the ages mid-twenties Pay What You For
u Can performanceoutThursday, June 26 6 at male singer/actors, west, cyclists and walkers get
at 8 p.m. Forty-six years later, “Scapin,” to theatre is hiring one to two adult male actors,
Cooper-Young, to the Playhouse district, andthe the beautiful and historic Peabody Avenue. Viamid
Square. Capture the city put in a nice square theremovedis hiring one to spaces.” First Sunday Event is Sunday, June 22, following the
year June 22, the imagination and revolutionary whimsy of parking two adult male actors, mid
Event is Sunday, after that,following the “Scapin,” or theatre some
Dr. Seuss in chance to meet twenties to mid-forties and three newly developed fairgrounds,
people to mid-forties the world. 2 p.m. performance. Audiences will enjoy the chance to meetwalkers will be able to easily access the adult female actors, ages
Copenhagen boasts itself musical celebration.
udiences will enjoy the this fantasticalthe mosttwenties friendly city inand three adult University of Michigan
The female actors, ages Young Ave., the bikers and
“A Tunathatof Playhousethe most-happy nation in the world in 2008 and the countryand tour the backstage areas of Playhousethe University of Memphis. And from all of these places, people will gain
reported January 6 at Playhouse on
Christmas” runs throughmid-twenties to mid-forties.
our the backstage areas Denmark is on the cast and crew remains continuing on Midland to on mid-twenties to mid-forties.
the Square. Food and as For more information, please contact Courtney Oliver at
the Square. Tacky tree its size and internal focus, acclaimedplease World Courtney Forum beverages will be provided. into the Cooper-Young district.
beverages will be provided.spite oftrimmings, gaudy garlands and redneck thecontact Economic Oliver at
competitive in For more information, by affordable access
ribbons among nations competing Texas as this much-loved
fourth festoon the town of Tuna, globally. Holiday open house
courtney@playhouseonthesquare.org, or call 725-0776 courtney@playhouseonthesquare.org, or call 725-0776
With a density of more than 4000 people per square mile in the Cooper-Young neighborhood,
Playhouse on the Square is and bicycle commuter at
uare is having Naturally, open house atof Copenhagen’s culture has developed over time, but interestingly the having aaholiday open housepopulation of nearly 0.5 percent (the Memphis average is less than 0.1
a holiday the returns.
audience favorite evolution
Big Broadway show comes to Playhouse
that will become part of the ofﬁce buildingpercent), Cooper Streetof the
its current ﬁve-storyCopenha-
ﬁce building bicycle has been an engine in the development of Copenhagen’s urban culture. Within that will become part provides a promising opportunity to create a well-used bicycle and
“Step 1: We ﬁnd the worst
gen’s city proper, as folks play ever written. Step by bicycle, Theatre and Arts Center Complex at 2158 Union—or as folks spread throughout the city.
r Complex at 2158 Union—or half of daily commutes are made 2: We hire mostly because the bike is the pedestrian corridor that can
been number to it:
the worst director in town. Step in Copenhagen, but alsodollars... the have is the referring one “the new Playhouse on the Square.”Memphians are beginning to ride bikes, leaving little doubt as to the use
Playhouse on the Square.”
t: “the new fastest mode of transportation 3: We raise two million because bike More people and more
On than 620,000 miles of 5 p.m. to 7 Cooper are
ber 11 fromStep 4: We hire the worst actors And nobody and open on jam. While moreTuesday December 11 from factor of thep.m., we corridor. Business at bike shops is up 20 to 30 percent city wide, and growing.
5 p.m. to 7of traffic congestion. in New York likes a traffic
mitigation p.m., we are
inviting number by 10 percent
Broadwayof Heart ofinyou can say Step 5, we officials attempt to increase the members, boards, staff, and friends of Heart of the Arts be looking for bicycle provision in the city streets.
bicycles before the city
andoccur the Arts each day, city close on
ds, staff, and friends trips More people, more often, will
and Midtown Development Finally, the bicycle we are
ment Corporation. year. take our two millionthe city’sto Rio.” results in the Copenhagen’s “Bicycle Account.” Corporation. Come see whatpromises the opportunity, as in Copenhagen forty-six years ago, to become
Broadway, They keep track of and go annual That’s
each Come see what we are
Soren Pind was Copenhagen’s Mayor of Building and Construction in 2002. He says “You have the engine for a city that is well-connected, densely populated, more healthy, more attractive, and
to make it comfortable, you have to make it secure, and you have to make an environment where more happy. As a pioneer in Memphis’ neighborhood development, Cooper-Young has the
people want to get on bikes. And for the last thirty years, there has been a political will to do this.” opportunity to usher in this new chapter in our city’s history. Cooper bike lanes can be the first of a
What kind of commitment does this take? in Copenhagen today, more than 3 Million Euros per network of bicycle lanes throughout the city. And as Kevin Costner learned in Field of Dreams, if
year are spent on cycling infrastructure. you build it, they will come. Use always follows the development of bike lanes.
But this is Memphis, not Copenhagen. The seismic shift in Copenhagen’s urban life beginning in This is the Memphis of the future. While history and politics seem to keep us chained to an
1962 is impressive by any standards, but Memphis is a sprawling, Southern town. We do things irrelevant and outdated way of life, the future has come to Memphis. it moves a little bit slower, a
differently here. little more carefully, but it’s both sustainable and profitable. And most importantly, it’s fun.
The facts: Memphis is hot. We have a high crime rate. There are very few walkers here and Want to be a part of this exciting process? Contact the CYCA at info@cooperyoung.org, the CYBA
fewer cyclists (this year, Memphis was rated one of the worst cities for bicycling and walking in the at cyba@bellsouth.net, the CYDC at sutton_cydc@bellsouth.net and tell them that you support
U.S.) And we are not a very dense city, less than 2500 people per square mile in a city with bicycle lanes and bicycle signs on Cooper Street and all throughout the neighborhood.
borders exceeding 316 square miles. Most importantly, with schools falling apart, we can’t commit Anthony Siracusa is awesome. He is also the Director of Revolutions Community Bicycle Shop, a
the money the Danes do for bicycle infrastructure. ministry of First Congregational United Church of Christ. He serves on the Metropolitan Planning
This, the skeptics say, is why Memphis can’t be Copenhagen. You can’t argue with facts. But Organization’s Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and commutes daily by bicycle.
these, also, are facts:

10 LampLighter September 2008 2007
4 LampLighter December
Auto Zone American Lubricating Co.
Buns on the Run
Breakaway
Cafe Ole
Camy’s Celtic Crossing
Clear Mountain Water Eclectic Eye
Easy Way
Comcast
InBalance Fitness
Memphis Animal Clinic Methodist LeBonheur
Peddler Bike Shop MLG&W
National Economy Plumbers
Revid Realty
RDJ Specialties, Inc.
Schwartz Electric Schnuck Markets
Target Soul Fish Cafe
Sowell & Co. Realtors
Young Ave Deli

September 2008 LampLighter 5
F A M i LY F i G H T Meanwhile, the Kwik Shop legally offers a wide variety of beers, in individual sizes from 12 to

Central Avenue Liquors trying to 40 ounces; all sorts of tobacco products; and some colorful glass pipes. All these items can be
purchased just across the intersection from Fairview. Any fear that these products might attract an
stay in Cooper-Young undesirable element into the school’s reach has not yet been codified into Memphis city law. The
existing laws also see no issue with venues that deliberately encourage loitering.
B E N N ETT STE B LETON
The outdoor seating of the Young Avenue Deli and Café Olé provide a seat close enough to
Rose Finley repeatedly said it: “This is a family business!” The frustration in her voice over-
interact with the uniformed school children of Peabody Elementary. The relaxed mid-afternoon
whelmed the words themselves. it was like a child finally encountering evidence that bad things do
patrons enjoy refreshing margaritas or cold craft brews, working their way to a free T-shirt, in full
happen to good people, counter to all those lessons adults have lied about.
view of the little tikes. Another recent law passed to address the perceived sins of an adult
Finley’s repetition was more for herself than for anyone listening. The strong family element to
population has pushed the smokers of both establishments out to sidewalk tables. But, in order to
Central Avenue Liquors was apparent without her words. The small woman stood behind the
protect the children, bar customers must walk 1500 feet from the front entrance of Peabody to
counter with three generations of kin. Her daughter, Sharon Gowen, occasionally rang up cus-
purchase a take home bottle of wine.
tomers at the cash register, the random few who wandered in for an after work bottle on their way
When presented with this apparent hypocrisy, Waring simply points out that every situation is
home. Rose’s husband, Charles, worked at a separate desk. Sharon’s son Hayden wandered
different. When asked for evidence of the effectiveness behind the 1500-foot rule, Waring admits
throughout the store, turning empty wine boxes into toys so there was something for him to do.
he is “not aware of any empirical studies.”
Even Josie, the content chocolate lab, lounged with her people on the other side of the counter.
Given the position of Peabody Elementary, Fairview Middle, Peabody Park, and five separate
The presence of so much family was attributable, in part, to necessity. They’ve had to let go of
churches, the only option Cooper-Young has for a local liquor and wine store is an exception to the
most unrelated employees over the past few months.
1500-foot rule. People in walking communities want to stroll to church, send their children to a
When the Finleys’ lease expired, their landlord, Charles Ryan, informed them he would not be
school around the corner, take a safe and legal stumble home after a few pints, wander over to the
renewing it. He intended to pursue another commercial development on the property. They saw
park, and still walk to a liquor store for a bottle of wine to go with dinner.
this as an opportunity for a modest expansion and took out a lease on a property just down the
So what options do the Finleys have left? Waring is empathetic, but admits: “i really don’t know.
avenue, at 2238 Central, a building daughter Sharon had recently purchased. The Finley’s put
They may have some recourse before the city council.”
some cash and many man hours into reforming the abandoned structure. They had intentions of
The Finleys have begun a petition to demonstrate community support. it rests on their counter,
moving in some additional shelving and increasing their selection to fill the larger space.
near the cash register. Without pursuing people outside the store, they have accumulated 1180
That’s when the alcohol commission, and a law that goes back farther than most can remember,
signatures at press time. Charles Finley is hoping that a persuasive argument and supportive
happened to these good people. initially, when Charles inquired of the city permits office what
neighbors will convince the Commission to issue a recommendation in his favor.
steps they would have to take to move their store, he was told his liquor and wine permit would
if that doesn’t work, a lot of us might be driving to Madison or Highland for a nice
move with the store. “No problem” was the assumption the Finleys were working under until
inexpensive cabernet.
someone took some measurements for the city.
Central Avenue Liquors freshly renovated location falls within 1500 feet of Fairview Middle
School. City ordinance section 4-5 reads: “A liquor store must be 1500 feet from a church, school,
park, playground, library, or another liquor store” in a straight line measurement. Their existing
location, less than two blocks past the new spot, also fell inside 1500 feet. But it was given a pass
due a grandfather clause. Central Avenue Liquors was first issued a liquor license in 1939, well
M I DT
before the 1500 foot rule was put on the books. Unfortunately for the Finleys, this particular excep-
tion applies only to the old location. Any attempts to move the store within that protective middle
Foc
kee
school halo will force the expiration of any special treatment the Finleys previously enjoyed.
Charles Finley did not consider the shakiness of a license that had been stable throughout his
family’s ownership of the shop. When the permits office treated the issue with similar nonchalance KRIST
in response to his inquiry, he saw no cause to look deeper into the issue. Charles did not recognize This
American society’s ever-growing paranoia about the perceived negative effects of its own vices. seemin
Nor did his supportive family find enough cause for concern to raise a red flag. child. I
This naivety has been costly for the Finley family business, so costly that it may devastate it again a
completely. Paying on two leases has drained their ability to keep inventory. This reduced selection year. In
has pushed their more selective customers into the alcohol-laden aisles of well-stocked competi- about
tors. Reduced sales have further limited their ability to offer variety, and the snowball grows. Now
Charles estimates his losses since the first rejection of the transfer of license at somewhere around shoppi
$60,000 to $70,000. That kind of scratch could buy a lot of exclusive drink for niche customers. that I d
Bad things do happen to good people. Or naive people. about
that in
Roane Waring prefers to see them as good people. As an attorney for the city of Memphis, he
last-mi
sits on the other side of the issue. Still, he takes no delight in harming the Finleys’ family enter-
one m
prise. He repeatedly stresses that they are good people, but he doesn’t see any wiggle room in the
Somer
law. They simply did not meet the requirements. There is little more the Alcohol Commission can
And
do in the case. The typical procedure is that the city Alcohol Commission makes a recommenda-
draw it
tion to the mayor, who then goes to the state with that recommendation. The state usually will
who th
accept the decision of the mayor. Waring acknowledges that the commission will take into account
big pile
the wishes of the community, but the regulations need to be acknowledged. While the measure-
memo
ments in the law are inarguably clear, the intent is easily questionable. Waring believes that the
stuff. A
law was likely meant to discourage the mingling of undesirable elements with children and
do enj
churchgoers.
hard fo
The law as it is written does not take into account Central Avenue Liquors’ strict no loitering
kind o
policy, nor its refusal to sell to anyone already intoxicated, nor its policy of frequent identification
And
checks. Still, there is the perception that a store that sells wine and liquor will somehow negatively
just a f
impact the school two blocks away.
that ca
6 LampLighter September 2008 pass th
down o
holiday
LO CA L P O LiTi C S
AUCTION ACTION
“A lot of people were just confused and either

Grassroots group charters path to
Bevy of rental properties to be sold
didn’t vote or just guessed,” he said. “We want to
make sure people have all the tools to make the
November ballot
December 4 right decisions.”
Two of those issues are back on the ballot in
K A V i TA P i L L A i
COU RTN EY M I LLE R SANTO November—allowing five county offices to once
“Change” might be a national buzzword, but it doesn’t start—or end—with a presidential
Change is coming for the residents of the 1000 block of Bruce Street in Cooper-Young. On again operate legally under the county charter
campaign. And a new grassroots group has formed to remind voters that all politics is local.
December 4 nearly one-third of the properties on the street will change owners. The properties and limiting terms, this time to two consecutive
Change Memphis, a coalition created to educate voters about potential amendments to
will be sold by Roebuck Auctions, a Memphis based real estate company. four-year terms.
the Memphis City Charter, is kicking into high gear now as officials near the end of a two-year-
The six properties on Bruce are owned by Bret James, who is selling his entire inventory of Brad said that the Change Memphis coalition already has worked with commission members to
long journey.
forty-one Midtown properties through the Roebuck Auction. More than one-third of the properties ensure each amendment to the city charter would be voted on separately in November. He added
The Memphis Charter Commission, an elected non-partisan city body created in 2006, held its
will be sold as “absolute,” which means there is no reserve price. Theoretically a buyer could that the commissioners will be involved in the education of voters.
last meeting August 21, at which the amendments to appear on the November ballot were
purchase one of the ﬁfteen absolute properties for as little as $1. “Various members have agreed to come to our community forums where we will go out to low
scheduled to be finalized. in addition, two proposed amendments to the Shelby County charter will
The only CY property being auctioned without reserve is 1052 Bruce, which James purchased turnout, low income areas to have town hall meetings to explain what these issues are... and what
appear on the ballot.
in 2006 for $30,000, according to the Shelby County Assessor. In October 2007, he advertised their passage or failure would mean.”
After that last meeting, the commission’s work basically ended. if voters are going to know
!
Sold
the property for rent as a two bedroom duplex—renovated inside and out—for $650 a month. The final language for the amendment is due to the elections commission September 5. A few
anything about the referenda, they’ll have to figure it out themselves or hear about from Change
In total, nineteen CY properties will be sold. The commercial properties include a former gas other issues may make the cut, including:
Memphis, which comprises The Mid-South Peace and Justice Center (MSPJC), New Path Memphis
station that now houses a daycare, a commercial building on Cooper that is currently home to • Expanding the local judiciary body by considering the creation of part-time judges
and Concerned Memphians United.
Lux, and an apartment complex on the edge of the neighborhood.
• Making the Charter Commission’s work a regular event every ten to twenty years
“Change Memphis started as a grassroots effort to bring about systematic change in Memphis
This is the largest single sell-off of Cooper-Young properties. In February 2006, Roebuck $349,900 $309,900 $237,500
and the changes to the city charter are certainly a starting point,” said Jacob Flowers, director of • Altering charter language on recalling the mayor to bring it in line with state law
auctioned thirteen CY properties as part of a larger Midtown auction. As in this auction, many of
the MSPJC “it all begins with an informed and active electorate, and the charter changes are a • Allowing citizen petitions to change the charter directly
those properties were unimproved rentals. Steve Lockwood attended the auction and reported on
perfect example of an important issue that would get lost in the ballot if no one gets out there and The city council also may include on the ballot:
it for the LampLighter:
educates people on the importance of voting to our democracy.” • Giving council oversight over the selection of the mayor’s deputy directors
Change Memphis will work to get out basic information about the charter as well as explain the
• Giving council contract authority now held by the mayor
pros and cons of the proposed amendments. The work will be crucial because not only is misinfor-
• Change Memphis is chomping at the bit to get the word out about these historic amendments,
mation about the amendments bound to spread, it’s likely many Memphians don’t know anything
especially as voters’ minds are continually pulled in other directions, Flowers said. information
about the city charter itself or why it matters.
is located at www.changememphis.net.
The charter is the city’s constitution—it’s as important to the operation of local government as
“This is a very exciting election year throughout the country, and while national politics are tied
the U.S. Constitution is to federal government, though the process of amending it is certainly less
up in the race to see who is going to ‘change’ this country, we cannot forget that change is also
involved. Still, since its inception in 1966, the charter has only seen minor changes. in 2004,
needed on the local level here in Memphis”.
30,000 Memphis residents signed a petition urging the formation of a charter commission to
examine the document and suggest improvements.
Flowers said it was high time for this process to begin if the charter was to keep up with the
evolution of the city and the rest of the country. He said the 30,000-plus residents who supported
the Charter Commission are evidence that voters can become engaged on an overarching issue
like change.
“Unfortunately, the impetus that was generated by the overwhelming support of the creation of
the Charter Commission has not followed through to the actual charter changes on the … ballots.”
Those changes include limiting elected officials to serving two consecutive terms, requiring a
Nearly one-third of the properties being sold at auction on December 4 are
public referendum before a sale of MLG&W and implementing a new election process called
located in Cooper-Young. The southeast corner of the neighborhood will be most
instant Run-Off Voting.
affected by the sale, being held by Roebuck Auctions.
in addition to those, the commission has approved three other amendments—staggering elected
officials’ terms so no year sees full turn-over of the city council; updating ethics requirements by
“The bidding started off with the three properties on Cooper—811/813—ﬁrst. It took me about
requiring the suspension of a government official charged with official malfeasance until the issue
20 seconds to realize I was only going to be an observer. They started out bidding at about what I
is resolved; and authorizing the city council chairman to take over mayoral duties temporarily if a
might have paid. Within a minute the old building that was the reserve police substation had gone
vacancy occurs.
for $112,200 (including the 10 percent tip tacked on for Roebuck). 821 Cooper went next for
Those issues alone could be controversial and would have wide-ranging effects on city
$93,500; 817 went for $81,400.”
operations.
Today, the Assessor lists Bernard Cowles as owner of these properties. Cowles, who owns the
“i think that these changes could permanently alter the way of life for most Memphians,” Jacob
Cowles Company and built Cooper-Young Place, lists the properties as rentals on his website.
said. “Let’s face it. Things get done in Memphis because powerful people want them to get done.
Currently, 821 Cooper is described as a 1600 square foot, three bedroom, two bathroom unit with
These charter amendments would affect everything from the way we vote to who we would be
new appliances. It rents for $1395 a month.
voting for, so it will alter the face of politics in Memphis.”
If this auction follows the others, then many of these properties will remain rentals. New owners
And what might seem an obvious choice, isn’t always so, said Brad Watkins, Change Memphis
will have a choice—within zoning guidelines—of what to do with their properties. As Steve
campaign manager, citing the ethics reform amendment that would suspend any official charged
Lockwood laments in his earlier article, the auction process does not easily accommodate
with wrongdoing. Brad emphasized how slow the justice system sometimes operates.
ﬁrst-time buyers who are looking for a home and not a rental investment. What this means
“in the meantime, who is representing your district?” he said. “This amendment has the potential
for current residents of the 1000 block of Bruce is that although ownership will change,
to open some pretty scary doors as far as lack of representation, as well as political witch hunts.
nothing else will.
These are the kinds of questions and points we hope to raise in this campaign.”
According to Roebuck, the total value of the real estate is estimated at more than $5 million
Watkins said the organization is trying to avoid the information void that plagued the Shelby
with a total income potential of $600,000 annually. Interested bidders should check the
County referenda voted on in August. With no education campaign associated with those amend-
Roebuck Auctions website at www.roebuckauctions.com or call 901-ROEBUCK to learn more
ments and because several issues were grouped together for an up or down vote, Brad said the
about what is required
voters were ill-served.

December 2008 LampLighter
September 2007 LampLighter 7
5
TiMELESS UNiQUES N AT U R E ’ S S C U L P T R E S S

Oasis in the heart of Midtown Natural and organic artwork on display
TA M E R A W A L K E R J. S. SMiTH

Memphis Waterworks is the latest addition to a Sculptress April Wright was born in German-

family of antique stores owned and operated by town. Upon viewing her recent September show,

Mindy and Frank Roberts. Located at 741 South one would suppose that she spent much of her

Cox, about a block south of Central, life in the fabled city of Atlantis. Layered pieces

Waterworks has a large collection of one of a kind with natural and organic imagery come alive in

antiques of stone, wood, marble and tin. clay with the texture and feel of a lost treasure

As you walk through this renovated lumber found deep in the depths of the ocean.

warehouse, let your eyes wonder over the For the past year-and-a-half, April has spent her

timeless pieces of turn of the century urns, stone time creating this show drawing upon nature and

benches, rippling fountains and vintage gates. it’s cycle of life and death as her theme. April

There are literally hundreds of one-of-a-kind says, “in nature, fungi can grow on a dead

architectural pieces to choose from. While there, organism. it grows. Why does something alive

notice the collection of chimney pots from all over grow on something that is dead?” She continues

the world or the glazed terra cotta door or this thought process in her artwork by exploring

window trim that consists of ten separate pieces how in life’s circumstances, events and relation-
ships that have become “dead,” eventually turn April Wright’s sculptures are currently
from Chicago dated 1920. Most people are
on display at Artists on Central.
drawn to the unbelievable large assortment of out to be alive again.

Victorian, French and old Memphis vintage doors, Memphis Waterworks, which offers April’s show titled “Transformations” includes sculptures in clay ranging in size from small hand
a wide variety of eclectic antiques is held pieces to wall hanging and free standing sculptures weighing 80 to almost 800 pounds.
many are dated from 1880 into the 1930s. now open.
The Roberts along with their son, Frank Jr., are always on the hunt to rescue and preserve After firing, acrylic washes are applied to create a unique and nature-like patina. Each piece is

pieces from architecturally significant homes and businesses in Memphis and the surrounding titled with the word “Let” in front of it such as, “Let me live again,” “Let the river flow,” and “Let the

areas. Ornate brass and pewter door knobs, electrical plates, locks and windows can be found at lost be found.”

the newly opened Waterworks. A stroll through the inside of this massive warehouse is a won- April Wright’s work is rich with natural and organic imagery. She creates a tension for the

derful break in the day with the peaceful sounds of rumpling water to guide your steps. viewer, wondering if the sculptures are scaled-down versions of enormous natural forms or

Outside on the patio, there are several dozen water-filled fountains all playing their tune. blown-up renderings of microscopic organisms. This will be left to your discretion as you view the

Statues of boys playing baseball, a girl pouring water from a pitcher along with a long fountain show which will be on display Sept. 5 through Sept. 30 at the gallery located at 2256 Central

lined walk-way down the south side of the warehouse add to the mystic that lies within. Ave. For more information call the gallery at 276-1251 or go online to www.thepalladiogroup.com.

L E T T E R TMemphisTWaterworks is a welcome and unique addition to the Palladio Antiques and Market
O EDI OR
Central group of destination shops on Central. Don’t forget to come and shop, bring a friend and
enjoy lunch the school
Peabodyat a ever popular Café Palladio. if you would like to host an event or tour, please
in good standing
contact Mindy Roberts at 276-3806.

K O N G S O U LY J O N E S
C O O P E R -Y O U N G H i S T O R Y
As you know, Peabody Elementary School
Scrap Metal Scroungers
and Memphis City Schools are dedicated to
that K R N E L L
ensuring S A MourEstudents succeed. While we
have always held high expectations for our the 1920s and 1930s, were scrap-metal nuts. We would
Us Cooper and Young kids, back in
the federal No all the alleys looking
students, scrounge aroundChild Left Behind Actfor stuff we could sell to an old gentleman who came by so
of 2001 (NCLB) has set new standards for by an ancient-looking horse.
often in a creaky old wagon drawn
We took
students to meet. great pleasure in watching the driver slowly leave his seat, and with great pomp and
circumstance, weigh our metal pieces on
This summer, our state released a report on an old scale we always suspected was off calibration
(intentionally).
the progress Memphis City Schools is making
Another thing we
for 100 years later was that this same metal was shot back at us (the
toward achieving proﬁciencysuspectedpercent
Greatest Generation) in WWii.
of our students under NCLB. The report
Anyway, we would prowl all the alleys around Cooper-Young and would accumulate just
identiﬁes whether schools have made
enough scrap that could earn each of us maybe a nickel. Flushed with purchasing power then,
Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)–a simple yes
we would all parade up to the stores ‘at the corner’, as we called Cooper and Young, and buy
or no grade based on a complex set of
chocolate bars.
Money make AYP, each district
measurements. To was really scarce back then. A nickel was like a quarter now. Which reminds me of a
story that for years floated of test
school must achieve targets: areasabout in my family– a story we laughed at many times.
participation and performance measured Sara for a nickel to buy some candy. She told him she didn’t
One of my nephews asked Aunt
have a nickel – would a penny by
across subgroups of students (groupeddo? such
“No, a penny won’t do me any and
categories as race, language proﬁciency,good.”
His younger brother, stifling a tear
disability). In addition, schools must meet and rubbing his eyes said, “A penny’ll do me a lot of good.”
graduation rates and attendance targets. If just
one subgroup misses just one target, an entire
school does not make AYP. We are pleased to
inform you that Peabody Elementary School
met the target in Spring, 2007, and is listed as
8 LampLighter September 2008
“IN GOOD STANDING.”
Please know that many good schools have
ain-

MARKET REAPING
hat
to Harvest adds advertising ﬂair to CY
his BUYER’S MARKET KiD POWER

Buy Your Midtown dream home signs with the Network for Cooper-Young parents
K AT I E B R U N E A U
If you’ve driven around Cooper-Young lately, you’ve probably noticed the yard
sa
slogan “Don’t be a Dick.” Under the slogan is a picture of Dick, and, unfortunately, Dick is always
S U T T O N M O R A H AY E S launches
the victim of a crime. At the bottom of the sign, there are tips on safety awareness for Cooper-
There is a lot of talk right now about the housing market, and rightfully so. We are in a slow
wis Young residents, or how not to be like Dick. MAN DY G R i S HAM
market and the prospect of buying a home can be scary. is it a good time to buy? Can i qualify for
This eye-catching campaign is a collaboration between the CYCA and the marketing ﬁrm
a mortgage? Will the mortgage be safe for Mackey, Safety ChairWhat do i need to qualify for a
Harvest, located in Cooper-Young. Edmund me in the long run? of the CYCA, approached Harvest
mortgage in of first place? safety awareness campaign. the Cooper-Young Development
with the idea thelaunching a Lucky for Midtown residents, Harvest agreed, and the new campaign
Corporation (CYDC) can help to answer all those the campaign also includes a comfortable
is the result. In addition to yard signs and posters,questions and help you to feel website, www.
buying a house in this market. a myspace page beautiful new homes for sale right now; one of
safedick.com, and Dick also has Plus, we have six at www.myspace.com/safedick.
After looking perfect for you!
which might be around Memphis and deciding that Cooper-Young was the best ﬁt for them,
Cooper-Young the Midtown are special areas, and we doors that we Harvest is the brainchild
Harvest moved to and neighborhood in 2006. Opening itsbelievein 2003, will come out of this
housing Brown fairly unscathed. it might take another year or so, but we will rebound. The
of Daniel market and Andrew Holliday. Harvest is a full-service advertising and design agencyupside
is that you are in the market public relations days, this is a great time to get a deal. Qualifying
offeringifdesign, advertising, andfor a house thesefor a complete creative marketing solution.

for a mortgage range from it is your first) is a bit more difficult than it and their client list
Harvest’s clients (especially ifone-man start-ups to very large companies, was this time two years
includes NCDS (a subsidiary of SunTrust Banks Inc.), Downtown Condo Connection, DAC, Make-A-
ago, but we have lots of lending partners who work on your credit, we will help you in any way
Wish, the University of Tennessee, among others.
we can. We only work with reputable mortgage lenders and we do not accept any predatory
Daniel and Andrew met while they were both working for other companies and decided that Cooper-Young is bursting with children. Photo by Mandy Grisham.
loans. We believe in safe lending.
they worked well together. Andrew says, “We saw a space that we could ﬁll in the market and
The CYDC also develops homes, and currently has six, wonderful, brand-new homes available Nearly three years ago, my family moved to Memphis from the San Francisco Bay Area. My
et thought that we had complimentary talents.” The idea behind Harvest is harvesting for the clients
for purchase on Seattle Street, just west of McLean. Each home is 1200-plus square feet featuring husband grew up near Memphis and had many fond memories of times in Midtown, so he felt
and also providing fresh ideas.
three their ﬁrst year of business, Daniel and Andrew worked long hours to build Harvest’s like it would be a great place to raise a family. At the time, our son was only six months old and
For bedrooms and two bathrooms. Each home also features great amenities like dishwashers,
we were just learning how to be parents.
disposals, security systems, plenty of closetthey also rarity in Midtown), and great quick porches
business. Their primary focus is quality, but space (a recognize the importance of front turn-
A mentor of mine once asked me the question, “What do you hope for?” When choosing where
that will allow you to not only and get to know your neighbors. We have several different floor
around for clients. “Wesit outsideproduce quality products, but we also produce them quickly,”
to raise my family, this question came to the forefront of my mind. The answer, probably typical
plans, so Daniel.
commentsthere is bound to be a house that you will fall in love with. These houses do have
of what many parents here would say: i want my family to know community; i want us to serve
In the past year, Harvest has grown from two full-time employees
income restrictions, so remember to ask about those when you call. to ﬁve. This growth has
allowedCYDC will have a booth at Festival located rightin afront of Bank of America/old Square our church, our neighborhood, and our city; i want my children to know diversity and respect and
The them to have more employees who specialize in speciﬁc area, such as web design or
uence” love all kinds of people; i want them to be well-educated, both in academics and life experience;
Foods, and we For more information on Harvest, please visit www.harvestmemphis.com.
public relations. will be happy to answer any questions you might have about buying one of these
and the list goes on. it became quite obvious, after just a little research, that Cooper-Young was
great homes. We will be having an open house on Seattle Street on September 21 from 2 p.m. to
ion” the place for us.
5 p.m. Stop by the booth to get all the details.
in no time, we got involved in the community association, helped start a church, and have met
Please contact Sutton Mora Hayes at the CYDC if you have any questions about these homes or
many new friends. Over the last three years, now with two kids, our love and passion for Cooper-
buying a home in general at 272-1459.
Young has grown, and we have no doubt that it will keep getting stronger.
in our three years here, we have been privileged to meet many more families who share these
same values. i have never lived in a community where friendships have happened so quickly and
so deeply. Our first Halloween in the neighborhood, Robert and i hosted a “Toddler Halloween Party”
and sent an e-mail out through the CYCA. That night, about fifteen families with young children came
to our home with little goblins, ducks, cows, princesses, and even the incredible Hulk!
Later that spring, about twenty families joined us at Peabody School for a forum with Principal
Jones, and other teachers and parents to discuss the quality of education at Peabody. The
following Halloween, one of the families who attended the first party offered to host the second
annual party, which was a great success. And then last spring, Build Day at Peabody School
brought together many of these families again as we built the new playground in one day! This
grassroots list of young families in Cooper-Young has grown to at least thirty families, and i am
constantly seeing more and more families in the neighborhood that i do not know.
Since living here, i have dreamed of starting a Cooper-Young Parents Network. i have seen
these organizations in other communities across the country, and i believe one in Cooper-Young
would be very successful.
What is a Parents Network? imagine Craigslist meets BabyCenter: A web-based forum where
Cooper-Young parents can post information about playgroups, discussion groups, family outings/
events, and recommendations for things like pediatricians, restaurants, and babysitters.
One neighborhood mom wants to start a monthly group that walks Cooper-Young (with kids
and strollers in tow), ending at a local restaurant for cocktails. Last spring, some families met
every Monday evening at the new Peabody School Playground for play dates. CYPN will also host
events throughout the year to bring together these families. it seems like the time is right, and
now that i’ve become a “work at home” mom, i’m trying to make it happen along with a team of
very supportive community members.
if you are already on my grassroots e-mail list, you will receive a formal invitation from Yahoo
Groups to join the Cooper-Young Parents Network. But, for the many of you whom i don’t know
who may be interested in joining the CYPN, please e-mail us at cooperyoungparents-subscribe@
yahoogroups.com.
We are launching the Cooper-Young Parents Network during the weekend of the Cooper-Young
Festival. The official Launch Party will take place during the 4-Miler race on September 12 at a
home on Nelson Avenue with many kid-friendly activities. We hope to win the “Light the Way”
competition, so walk, stroll, or bike over with your family (extra cars will clog the runners’ path)
and we’ll party and cheer on the runners as they come down Nelson Avenue.

September 2008 LampLighter 9
FiVE ALiVE

Festival takes over Midtown beginning September 25
ZAC iVES
Goner Records has announced the lineup for its fifth annual music festival, which will
take place at venues in Midtown from September 25 to 28. This is the fifth year for the
festival, which will include three evening showcases at the Hi-Tone, a Saturday after-
noon two-stage concert at Murphy’s, opening and closing shows at Goner Record Shop,
and various day shows and art shows throughout the weekend.
The festival has become an international underground music event, bringing bands
and music fans from all over the world to Memphis for what has been called, “four days
of rock and roll mayhem.” This year there will be thirty-five bands from three continents.
“We’ve been working on the lineup and logistics for this year’s fest for about nine
months now,” said Goner co-owner Eric Friedl. “We started by putting together a list of
bands we wanted to bring in. And then we started calling people up. Almost everybody
we called is coming this year, so we’re pretty excited.”
Highlights of this year’s event include San Francisco noise duo Sic Alps, Memphis’
punk prince Jay Reatard, Michigan angular Anglicans TVK (formerly Tyvek), Fred and
Toody Cole of Dead Moon’s new venture Pierced Arrows, and Rough Trade throwbacks
Vivian Girls. Other bands on the bill include The intelligence, Eat Skull, Cheap Time,
Australia’s Ooga Boogas, Jack Oblivian & The Tearjerkers, Jeffrey Evans & His Southern
Aces, The Barbaras, France’s Crusaders Of Love, Denmark’s Cola Freaks, Dan Melchior,
England’s Black Time, Box Elders, Mouserocket and Thee Oh Sees.
Goner Fest 5 will be MC’d by Memphis icon Ross Johnson. This year’s event will also
feature a photography exhibit from former Memphian Geoffrey Ellis. Attendance for
Goner Fest 5 is anticipated to top 2500 people for the weekend; more than half of whom will be coming from outside of Memphis. The first four Goner festivals have attracted rock and roll fans from
Austria, Australia, Japan, Germany, italy, Holland, France, UK, Croatia and Canada. The festival has grown by leaps and bounds since 2005.
“We’ve been lucky. The first fest kind of happened by accident,” says Eric, “We were going to do a label showcase at the Buccaneer and it turned into a 48 hour rock and roll express train with
people and bands from all over the world on board. We’ve grown from there—but tried to stay true to the idea that the festival is about a bunch of people—bands and music fans—that are here just to
be here. i think we’ve been able to hold onto that so far.”
Festivities begin informally Wednesday, September 24 with a free ping-pong tournament at the Hi-Tone. And don’t forget for only $50 you can purchase a golden ticket that gets you
into every concert.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.gonerfest.com.

10 LampLighter September 2008
G R E E N BY PROxY PEABODY N EWS

Green Acres: Hemp is a crop Students start new school year
MELiSSA ANDERSON SWEAZY JENNiFER EOFF
Just so we’re clear: i’m about as counter-cultural as Donna Reed. i live in Midtown, but i’m still The 2008–2009 school year at Peabody Elementary began on August 11 and its’ unbeliev-
not exactly sure what a roach clip is or why anyone willingly places tie-dye on or even near his or able what has already been accomplished by the 400 enrolled students.
her body. i want to trust the folks in charge. if the sky were to start falling, i would be likely to just The first grade students in Courtney Magbee’s class, also known as Ms. Magbee’s Marvelous
curl up in the lap of Uncle Sam, a compliant little lamb who just wants to be told everything will Minds, are learning Swahili words to kick off their yearlong study of Kenya. in addition to
be okay. So, no one was more surprised than me when i found myself encouraging Caleb’s dream learning a new language, the first-graders have already started the MCS Reads campaign by

of adding hemp farmer to his varied resume. designing a book log where each student must read at least 25 books this school year. Also, the
beginning of the classroom’s ice cream theme was formulated after taking a virtual tour of Ben
Every few months or so my husband would declare that he wanted to grow hemp. i would roll
and Jerry’s factory. Go Ms. Magbee’s Marvelous Minds!
my eyes and the balance that keeps our earth from spinning off its axis remained so. He would
in the fifth grade, students are truly getting a feel for what middle school will be like in the
launch into an impassioned defense of the much maligned crop, explaining that it had thousands
future. The fifth grade team is departmentalized this year, and students are beginning to switch
of uses, was easy on the land and, most importantly, lacked the chemicals or THC its cousin
classes on the very first day of school and have not slowed down since. The team is departmen-
marijuana has to provide the high. The only thing i knew about hemp is that Woody Harrelson talized as follows: Gina Garrone is teaching Composition, Language Arts and Social Studies;
likes it a lot, he of the flavored oxygen bars and prodigious love of smoking some herb. Hemp, LaShanda Bell is teaching Composition, Reading and Spelling; and Jenifer Eoff is teaching
like marijuana, isn’t grown in this country without permits, so by extension, hemp and Woody Composition, Math and Science. After being asked what they thought about switching classes for
Harrelson must be evil, right? the first time, Joelle Thompson remarked, “i love it!”
So i was a little confused when i found hemp milk on the shelf at my local Kroger. Having just Ms. Edwards’ Superstars are currently working on setting and reaching their academic goals
weaned the kiddo, i was desperate to find her something to drink. She hated cows’ milk. it hated for this school year. Ms. Edwards works very hard each year to ensure that these goals are met!
her. Soy with its suspect pseudo estrogen was out. Rice milk didn’t contain the fat necessary for Peabody Elementary has a National Young Scholar
brain development. And then there was hemp milk, right there on the shelf next to the Rice The National Young Scholars Program (NYSP) is an academic enrichment program for
Dream. Made by Living Harvest, the packaging explained that it was brimming with protein and students who have demonstrated academic excellence in grades 2-5. if selected, the students
omega-3s and even came in chocolate and vanilla. Harlow loved it. Did a dance, sang, and attend classes for one week on the campus of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC.
This summer third grader, Elechi Egwuekwe, daughter of Nnaemeka and Pamela Egwuekwe,
performed tricks for her “ba-ba” loved it. When i mentioned to friends how much she loved it, i’d
traveled to Wake Forest University to participate in the program. Elechi and her discovery team
get the same jokey “well–she must reeeaally like it,” response- stretched syllables taking on a
became Crime Scene investigators. They used science-based detective skills and chemistry
Cheech and Chongish inflection. And then i’d laugh, because the idea of my toddler getting
concepts to connect facts to unravel clues in solving the mystery of “Lemont the Missing Lizard.”
stoned off of her daily sippy cup is perversely funny and because, according to DEA policies, it
When asked how she enjoyed the program, Elechi stated, “it was nice. i enjoyed the experiments.
seems is exactly what they believe could happen. i can’t wait to go again next year. This time i stayed in a hotel. Next time i’m staying on campus!”
Now i was really confused. Hemp, i discovered after no small amount of research, is an Elechi shared the highlights of her trip with her classmates and had everyone wishing they
amazing plant. in the early twentieth century it was the United States’ primary source for rope and could have been there with her.
sails. The word hemp comes from the Arabic word meaning canvas and with over 25,000 uses, Hats off to Elechi and her parents for providing the opportunity for her.
everything from rope to paper to waffles, it’s truly the greenest of plants. it is biodegradable and More New Faces
an excellent rotation crop. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were hemp farmers, and in last month’s issue, i mentioned several teachers that have joined the Peabody family this
hemp even provided the paper Jefferson used to draft the Declaration of independence. But what year. i am excited to say we have even more new teachers to announce!
it is not, is a narcotic. Hemp, cannabis satvia, is in the cannabis family, but at the reunion it’s the Cooper-Young resident, Lydia Berryman, has joined the Kindergarten team. She taught for 4
bookish type in the corner while its wild cousin arrives on the motorcycle with the pregnant-teen- years at New Hope in Frayser. When she is not teaching, she is playing soccer or hanging out in
aged-girlfriend. Because of its trace amounts of THC, it is impossible to achieve the high from Cooper-Young with her husband Brian and their two dogs, Beryl and Teaspoon.
Anna Stewart teaches Russian to students in grades K through 5. Ms. Stewart recently
smoking hemp. if grown in the same field as marijuana, hemp will choke its wilder cousin (jealous
relocated to the Midtown area from Lakewood, Ohio. Since moving here, she has taken up
much?) and drastically reduce its THC content. So it would seem that the DEA was just misin-
roller-skating and she says roller-skating really allows her to see the city in a fun way.
formed, a bit hasty in declaring hemp an offender equally as heinous as marijuana. Right?
We also are happy to have Mrs. Farmer join our first grade team.
According to current policies, hemp is technically legal to grow in the United States but a
Special Thanks
permit to do so must be obtained first through the DEA, and there lies the catch-22. The Con-
We want to thank Mr. Jason Whitworth, who lives across the street from Peabody, for watering
trolled Substances Act unequivacally equates marijuana with hemp, and despite legislature passed the new grass in the front and back of our school. Because of Mr. Whitworth’s efforts, our grass
in states such as North Dakota that licenses their farmers to grow hemp, the DEA has yet to is going to survive. He is Peabody Elementary School’s new friend.
comply. Dave Monson, the first North Dakotan to receive such a license has since sued the DEA. We would also like to thank Union Avenue Baptist Church for their donations of the brand new
When not farming, Mr. Monson is a high school principal and a Republican State Representative. backpacks full of school supplies. With their donations, we were able to help new families at
Not exactly a countercultural troublemaker. But such stubborn resistance is not a new trend. Peabody acquire school supplies and backpacks. We are always appreciative of the partnership
According to pro-hemp literature, publisher tycoon William Randolph Hearst used his newspa- we have with Union Avenue.
pers to report on the dangerous link between hemp and marijuana in the 1930s. Mr. Hearst had Peabody Charmettes
millions invested in timber forests, and these news reports circulated at the same time a machine On August 23 from 9:00am-12:00pm, The Peabody Charmettes, along with their sponsors
had been invented that simplified making paper from hemp. in 1937, Dupont patented nylon Ms. Fifer and Linda Bell, walked for the cure for Alzheimer’s. This walk took place on Crump and
rope, the same year that also saw the passage of the Marijuana Tax Act, inextricably linking hemp Third Street. in addition to the small performance on that day, the Peabody Charmettes will also
march in the Classic Parade on September 13 from 10:00am-12:00 pm. The parade will travel
to marijuana and destroying the hemp industry. So it would seem that big businesses might
from Melrose High School to the Lamar Airways Shopping Center. Come out and support the
actually depend on hemp’s unfairly sullied reputation to keep it from becoming a competing cash
Charmettes of Peabody Elementary.
crop. But then, that would be awfully counter-cultural of me to suggest so. Visit www.votehemp.
World Renowned
com for more information.
Tammy Leonard is the Physical Education Teacher at Peabody and has held that position for
the past two years. Mrs. Leonard was recently asked by the World President of the Amateur
Bodybuilding Association, international Natural Bodybuilding Association and Professional
Natural Bodybuilding Association to represent the USA at the World Cup in Belfast, ireland. This
is considered to be the largest and most prestigious natural bodybuilding and fitness champion-
ship in the world. She was also asked to represent the USA at the Natural Olympia in San
Francisco and the Natural Universe competition in Los Angeles. Moral of this story: Don’t mess
with our P.E. teacher!

September 2008 LampLighter 11
To Our Readers Crime Map

The LampLighter is working with the CYCA to bring you meaningful crime information. in Do you want to know what crime is taking place in our neighborhood? The Memphis Police
addition to the crime map, which details crimes within a one-mile radius of the Cooper-Young Department offers a tool on its web site (www.memphispolice.org) that allows you to locate crime
intersection, we also included a list of crimes that happened within our neighborhood. This list information. Crimemapper allows you to input an address and search in quarter-mile increments
includes the case number, which you can use to contact the police. These crimes were reported for a specific type of crime. it then returns with the results of your search for the previous 30 days.
from July 23 to August 23, 2008.
Case Number Crime Date Block Arrest

0808009696ME Burglary/Non-residential Aug 16, 2008 900 BARKSDALE n/a
0808005920ME Burglary/Non-residential Aug 10, 2008 900 BARKSDALE n/a
0807017356ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Jul 29, 2008 900 BLYTHE n/a
0808013826ME Other Theft/Non-Specific Aug 22, 2008 1000 BRUCE n/a
0807017118ME Simple Assault/DV Jul 28, 2008 1000 BRUCE n/a
0807015006ME MVT/Motorcycle Jul 25, 2008 900 BRUCE n/a
0808011562ME Shoplifting/Misdemeanor Aug 19, 2008 2100 CENTRAL n/a
0808001917ME Other Theft/Non-Specific Aug 4, 2008 2200 CENTRAL n/a
0808000983ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Aug 2, 2008 2200 CENTRAL n/a
0807017894ME Shoplifting/Misdemeanor Jul 30, 2008 2100 CENTRAL n/a
0808011143ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Aug 18, 2008 900 COOPER n/a
0808007738ME Theft from Building Aug 13, 2008 800 COOPER n/a
0808005873ME Shoplifting/Felony Aug 10, 2008 800 COOPER n/a
0808005243ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Aug 9, 2008 800 COOPER n/a
0808000772ME Burglary/Business Aug 2, 2008 800 COOPER n/a
0807014948ME MVT/Passenger Vehicle Jul 25, 2008 1100 COOPER n/a
0807014752ME MVT/Passenger Vehicle Jul 25, 2008 1100 COOPER n/a
0807017001ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Jul 28, 2008 COOPER & NELSON n/a
0808011816ME Other Theft/Scrap Metal Aug 19, 2008 1000 COx n/a
0807014730ME Burglary/Residential Jul 24, 2008 900 COx n/a
0808006879ME Robbery/individual Aug 12, 2008 E. PKWAY & COOPER n/a
0808003547ME Burglary/Residential Aug 7, 2008 2000 ELZEY n/a
0807012778ME MVT/Passenger Vehicle Jul 22, 2008 1900 FELix n/a
0808002276ME Drugs/Narcotics Violation/Misdemeanor Aug 4, 2008 HiGBEE & COOPER n/a
0808000607ME Burglary/Residential Aug 1, 2008 900 MEDA n/a
SAFETY ALERTS
0807017374ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Jul 29, 2008 800 MEDA n/a
0808003519ME Burglary/Residential Aug 6, 2008 2200 NELSON n/a From Billy Garrett, Memphis Police Colonel at Union Station: Please alert our neighbors that we
0808002323ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Aug 5, 2008 2200 NELSON n/a are having a problem with vehicle break-ins on Vinton (1200-2200 block). The suspect(s) are
0808014405ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Aug 23, 2008 1000 NEW YORK n/a breaking a side window and ransacking the vehicle, taking papers, wallets, CDs etc. One victim
0808002695ME Aggravated Assault Aug 5, 2008 900 NEW YORK Y gave us a time frame from 9 p.m. to 2 p.m. the following day. These thieves have also taken
0808001267ME Simple Assault/DV Aug 3, 2008 NEW YORK & STHRN Y license plates from some vehicles parked in the street.
0807014815ME Burglary/Residential Jul 25, 2008 900 NEW YORK n/a Please note when you park your car and when everything appears to be in order. Check it
0808011952ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Aug 19, 2008 1900 OLiVER n/a before you leave somewhere in it. Occasionally check outside for any suspicious activity, such as
0807015697ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Jul 26, 2008 1900 OLiVER n/a people you don’t recognize standing around parked vehicles, slow driving vehicles, people sitting
0808010512ME Other Theft/Non-Specific Aug 17, 2008 800 TANGLEWOOD n/a in parked vehicles, people you don’t recognize driving around the neighborhood with no tags or
0807013990ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Jul 23, 2008 700 TANGLEWOOD n/a drive out tags on their cars. Any unknown males walking through the neighborhood with
0807013178ME Other Theft/Non-Specific Jul 22, 2008 2000 YORK n/a backpacks on, please watch to see if they are just passing through or if they appear to be casing
0808007824ME Theft from Building Aug 13, 2008 2100 YOUNG n/a vehicles or homes.
0807017773ME Simple Assault/DV Jul 29, 2008 1900 YOUNG n/a Report suspicious activity to the police and we will check them.
0807017528ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Jul 29, 2008 2100 YOUNG n/a From a Resident on Walker: My home was broken into on Tuesday morning, August 12,
0807016714ME Theft of Vehicle Parts/Accessories Jul 28, 2008 2000 YOUNG n/a between 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. on the 1900 block of Walker Ave. The criminals parked
0807013758ME Theft from Motor Vehicle Jul 23, 2008 2100 YOUNG n/a behind my neighbor’s garage, scaled the fence and kicked in the back door. The neighbors on
both sides of my home were at work when it happened. They locked my dogs in the bedroom
while they ransacked the house. Taken: 42” Flat Screen TV, MacBook Laptop, Canon Digital
Camera, heirloom family jewelry. if anyone saw anything suspicious, please call 545-COPS. i’m
really more worried about what they left behind, and am extremely concerned that they will try to
come back.
Recent robbery at Bella Notte: in August, two men and one woman or either two women
came in and looked around the shop and then came back a couple of days later for a robbery.
The description i received from workers at Toadhall, Lux, and Bella Notte state this:
Two black men- polite, well-spoken, designer clothing, lots of gold jewelry- one tall and one
shorter wearing a baseball cap
One woman: tall, black, thin, blue jeans, arm tattoo, rude
Two women: chunky, black, short-shorts, designer bags
They went to Carwile’s Cleaners, also, so they are not just entering retail stores. Please keep a
look out. They are driving an older model Lexus, dark green, which looks like a Camry. Shelby
County tag starts with 550.

12 LampLighter September 2008
MUSIC
CHARMiNG MEMPHiS Wayne “Punkin” Brown. Lenker began taping the session and returned many times to participate in

Deli regular Korby
the snake-handling worship services at The Church of the Lord Jesus in Jolo, West Virginia.
Lenker’s fascination with the ritual led to a tribute song to the now deceased Punkin Brown who
Lenker is a soulfully died tragically from a snake bite.

seductive musician “i was able to form a relationship with his family and they have come to see me play in
Knoxville many times,” he said.
Lenker has produced seven CDs ranging from bluegrass to gospel and formed the popular
K E L LY J A C K S O N
bluegrass band in the Northwest known as The Barbed Wire Cutters.
Soulfully seductive singer songwriter and musician,
Lenker does not aspire to be famous, but his goal is to produce the most creative music possible.
Korby Lenker, is living out his dream and at thirty-two
“My fear is failing on a daily basis, and i deal with it all the time when i sit down to write a
proudly states that he already has his dream car a 1985
song,” Lenker said. “But when you have to do something you have to do it. i have to create music
Volvo station wagon—characteristic of his humble
because i can’t do anything else.”
demeanor.
Failure, however, is not something Lenker has to fear. He has opened for such famous artists as
“Every time i see my car, it’s like i fall in love with it all Korby Lenker
Elvis Costello and Keith Urban, and the award-winning songwriter took first place at the prestigious
over again,” Lenker says.
Chris Austin songwriting contest at Merlefest in 2008. Lenker has also played other large festivals
This is exactly how you will feel about his music no matter how many times you listen to
in Seattle such as Sasquatch and Bumbershoot.
Lenker’s lyrics.
Lenker finds inspiration in his experiences, and if you listen to his songs, you will cast a glimpse
Lenker, a West Coast native, moved to Nashville a little over a year ago. He is looking to land it
into his colorful life.
big in areas such as Memphis, Birmingham and other Southern cities, but do not be surprised if he
“i write what i know,” Lenker said.
develops a few minor injuries on his journey because as Lenker’s lyrics say on his most recent CD
Lenker remembers being on tour in Alaska during the attacks of 9/11 and not being able to
“The King of Hearts,” “i’m giving myself paper cuts making wings to fly me to you.”
catch a plain ride out of the state.
An easy-going guy, Lenker admits that his music career has had its ups and downs, referring to
“i think i had $20 in my pocket, and i decided to hitch hike through Yukon Territory back to my
being under a record label that “spontaneously combusted,” but he thrives on the exchange and
home in Seattle, Washington,” he said.
interaction that he gets from playing with a band or solo and meeting new people.
Although Lenker could tell you lots of stories of his travels, he can’t quite describe his sound,
Some may wonder how a boy from Spud Country (idaho) developed his musical talents, since
other than he’s like “a lonely boy imagining impossible things.”
he says his family never owned an album in their house.
A big fan of John Mayer’s, Lenker likens his music to Mayer with bluegrass roots.
“My parents gave me piano lessons and i didn’t like practicing, but i loved playing,” Lenker said.
Quite possibly, the fact that you cannot pidgeon hole Korby’s music is the essence of his charm.
Lenker eventually fell prey to the music bug when introduced to The Cure in eighth grade and
if you ever get the opportunity to hear him play, then you will see why this self-proclaimed “King of
played guitar in a Cure cover band all through high school, but things really started happening
Hearts” is undeniably talented. And, just maybe, his lyrics will linger in your head and your heart and
when Lenker first heard bluegrass music. A friend gave him the bluegrass CD “Hot Dawg” by David
his refreshing refrains will inspire you as they have audiences from the Northwest to the Southeast.
Grisman.
Lenker is currently participating in Red Umbrella Tour to benefit RAiNN (The Rape, Abuse, incest
“i stopped listening to anything else but Bluegrass and soaked it up like a sponge,” Lenker said.
National Network). Keep an eye on his website at www.korbylenker.com to find out his next
it was then that he made the trip to Appalachia and fell under the spell of snake charmer
Memphis performance. He performs regularly at Young Avenue Deli and Hi-Tone.

September 2008 LampLighter 13
HOUSEHOLD COMPUTiNG
4-MiLER

Teacher Suggested Websites & Software Ron Childers honored as
D. JAC K S O N MA xW E LL Grand Marshall
in a very short time, computers and related technology have become pervasive throughout our
society. They moved from laboratories to places of business, then into schools and homes--from Ron Childers was chosen as the Grand Marshal of the

technology geeks to business people to students. Today, virtually everyone uses computers of Cooper-Young Festival Friday 4-Miler for his ongoing support of
some type. in the U.S., radio took 40 years to reach a 50 million person audience, television took the Cooper-Young neighborhood. The 4-Miler begins at 7 p.m.
13 years, and the internet took 4 years. The explosion of computer hardware and access has led on Friday September 12, at the Trestle Art on Cooper Street and
to an even greater expansion of websites and software. While there is plenty of software to block winds through Cooper-Young where residents will cheer on the
kids from pornographic, violent or other inappropriate sites, parents are left with a tough job of runners from parties held in front yards. Ron, an Emmy Award
finding high quality and educationally relevant material for their children. Therefore, i requested winning Meteorologist with Action News 5, will ride in the pace
two highly respected, accomplished teachers with established reputations as technology gurus to car and open the race party in the Bluff City Sports parking lot.
identify and describe some of their favorite sites and software. Janis Pankey and Suzanne Ron has been the auctioneer for the Cooper-Young Art for
Garverick are both National Board candidates. They routinely integrate the internet and related
Art’s Sake Auction for several years. The event is held the
technology into innovative instructional lessons. So, if you are looking for some safe, enter-
second Saturday in April at the Young Avenue Deli and is a
taining, and informative computer based activities for your children- give these suggestions a try.
fundraiser for the CYCA and the maintenance of the Trestle Art.
Teacher Suggested Websites & Software
The Trestle Art was created by metalsmith Jill Turman and
Websites:
dedicated in October of 2000.Ave

McLean Blvd.
Central
Central Ave

Cooper St
1. Mrs. Waltke’s Literacy Page (classroom.jc-schools.net/waltkek/) Designed by a Memphis City

Velma St
FESTIVAL 4-MILER MAP

Metcalf St
School teacher, the site provides access to a collection of literacy skills studied during the York Ave
York Ave

Meda St
school year for grades K-5. Links provide reading and spelling words, phonics and compre- Saulsbury
Start
Elzey
Ave
End

E Parkway
hension skills, and various games to reinforce skills. Elzey Ave

Tanglewood St
S Barksdale St

Cox St
2. Starfall (www.starfall.com) The site was designed for 1st graders but useful for Pre-K to 2nd. Evelyn Ave
Evelyn Ave

The focus is on literacy and is very interactive providing practice in phonics, vocabulary,
Nelson Ave
comprehension, and fluency. Poetry, short stories, art and music galleries, and riddles are all
Oliver Ave
available for consumption.
3. BrainPop and BrainPop Jr. (www.brainpop.com or www.brainpopir.com) Although not free, Oliver Ave

Seattle St
these sites are some of Ms. Garverick’s favorites, providing educational movies and homework Young Ave

Philadelphia St
help for students in all subject areas. The lessons offer critical thinking and inquiry skills plus

New York St

E Parkway
Blythe St
Felix Ave

Meda St

Bruce St
Felix Ave

Cox St
games, quizzes, vocabulary, and activities for students.
4. Spelling City (www.spellingcity.com/index.php?option+com_spellcity&task=playGame) Children Walker Ave Walker Ave

Cooper St
choose from pre-made lists or create their own lists of words that they can use for pre-tests or Manila Ave

games such as unscramble or “Hang Mouse.” The games are great practice for struggling spellers.
5. Poetry 4 Kids (www.poetry4kids.com) While geared to 9-12 year olds, younger children can
have fun playing on the site with older siblings or parents. The games match students against
the computer. There are also funny poems, poetry lessons, and a rhyming dictionary.
6. Make Beliefs Comics (www.makebeliefscomix.com/comix.php) From a menu, children choose a
character and an emotion for the character plus a background setting. The children then add
dialog, enabling them to create graphic novels. Great for 4th to 8th grade students.
7. World Geography (www.sheppardsoftware.com/web_games.htm) A great site for all ages
containing games, puzzles, and many surprises on world geography.
Software:
1. Math Blaster: Master the Basic (www.essentialskills.net)
Reinforcement for basic math skills is the target of this award winning software. The games are
fast and futuristic where students play video games that teach addition, subtraction, multipli-
cation and division skills. Practice involves improving speed and accuracy.
2. Literacy (www.knowledgeadventure.com/mathblaster/preview.aspx)
The software was developed by experienced teachers for struggling readers and is based on
established methodology. Activities include phonics, fluency, and vocabulary skills. The kid-
friendly games motivate students, building their confidence while tracking student progress
and providing measurable academic results.
These are just a few of the ways parents can encourage children to use computers for both
learning and fun. Additionally, parents need to make sure they are aware of their children’s
computing habits to make sure they are engaged in age appropriate behaviors. if you are
uncomfortable with the internet or related technology, enlist the help of relatives or friends to
provide support and assistance in monitoring your children’s computing excursions. Using the
above suggestions and oversights, our children cannot help but be happy, technology adept
knowledge seekers.
Dr. D. Jackson Maxwell is a National Board Certified Teacher and educational consultant.
Janis Pankey and Suzanne Garverick are recognized teachers and experts at integrating technology
into daily lessons. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Dr. Maxwell via email at:
maxwellj01@k12tn.net.

14 LampLighter September 2008
WEB OF LiFE M i DTOW N MA MA

Future of lot at corner of McLean and The Kids Can Come, Too
FEAR THIS

Lamar still in question Learning to surf versus drowning
KRiSTY ALLEY
N D Y F U a time
S AThere was R R H in the early 90s, back in my days as a student at Rhodes College, when i
MAGGiE CARDWELL
wouldn’t have dreamed of missing the Cooper-Young Festival. Every year, i looked forward to the
For the last several months, the Cooper-Young Community Association, the Rozelle Annesdale Do you remember bedtime when you were a kid and the lights
chance to check out racks of what my friend Stephanie still calls “festival dresses” and the chance
Area Association, and many area residents have come together to oppose plans for a small lot at would get turned out and all the shadows turned into scary mon-
to buy another pair of dangly hand-made earrings for my quadruple piercings, and groove to local
the corner of Lamar and McLean. The property’s owner will lodge her final appeal at an upcoming sters? Fear is like that. It thrives so it was especially and morphs to
music. During my senior year, i was a bartender at Café Ole, in the dark. It grows fun that year into
Memphis City Council meeting. my friends and coworkers as we reveled in the coolness of shadows
eat, drink, and be merry withsomething real and powerful when allowed to remain in theour own
The lot is owned by Gloria Glover, who has asked the city to approve her plans to put a dress little corner of the world. but when you turn on the light, the monsters disappear and fear
shop on the site and add an entrance/exit on the Southern side of the acreage. The CYCA, CYDC loses its power.
i graduated from Rhodes and got married, and the Festival became something for my husband
and RAAA oppose these plans based on the type of structure proposed for the shop and the Everyone lives with some fear. Some folk more than others.
and me to share. We’d stroll down the streets hand-in-hand, perusinghave art and pottery that
impact the new entrance/exit would have on traffic. Worry, anxiety, stress, all house on Landis. We’ve The in several
might adorn our shared, newly-grown-up-feeling rentalbasically derive from fear.lived worry list is
The issues with this site began in 2006 when Ms. Glover received a work permit to build a that one, but money, children, partner, crime, work, still rests on the
apartments and houses sinceendless. Time,one of Preacher Boyle’s painted bottles weather, cars,
dress shop on this property. Her attorney states that CYCA was notified of the process, but the bookshelf in our bedroom. house, yard, health, parents, theft, bills, terrorism, global warming,
CYCA did not learn of the proposed change to the site until residents on Manila noticed the trailer Then came the first baby, and suddenly i wasn’t so sure about attending the Festival anymore.
children’s safety, cancer, AIDS, relationships, friends, school, grades,
The thought of threading my way through the crowds in the saturated heat with my little one felt
had been moved onto the property. Following the appearance of the trailer, residents who own careers, college-the cumulative effect can be paralyzing. Some
overwhelming. it seemed i was thinking a lot less about clothes and jewelry and cool spoon-and-
property adjacent to Ms. Glover’s returned from an out-of-town trip to find that trees on their people are so paralyzed with fear that they literally try to hide from it. They refuse to leave their
seaglass wind chimes than i had the previous year. Luckily, the more practice we get with this
property had been cut down. house or drive or go into public spaces. Others have fears that are much more subtle but can be in
whole parenting thing, the easier it becomes. Gradually, i pulled my head out of the haze and
Following these incidents, Ms. Glover, let her work permit lapse. To renew her permit, she took the long run just as disabling. Shel Silverstein described it in this verse:
remembered that, oh yeah, i used to see people with babies and kids at the festival every year. A
her case to the Board of Adjustments, which in turn notified the CYCA and CYDC of her hearing. The my they all cackle, the roosters all beg,
scan ofhens jewelry collection revealed a shocking lack of the artsy baubles i’d always favored.
As required by law, the BOA also sent out copies of the project plan. These plans showed the And will a minute, will not hatch.
But I waitnot hatch, Iwho knew that festival dresses, with their flowing forgiveness, were the perfect
older-style trailer covered with siding as the permanent structure for the dress shop and right turn For I hear all the talk of pollution and war i really get along without a funnel cake and some
post-baby apparel? More importantly, could
in entrance from the Southern Avenue off ramp that merges into Lamar about fifty feet from the As the people all shout and the airplanes roar,
cheap draft beer?
McLean red-light. The plan gives the dress shop three parking spaces. I’m staying in here Cooper-Young Festival became
So So once again, the where it’s safe and it’s warm, a yearly part of our lives. Now that my kids
The BOA denied the permit after the protest of the CYCA, represented by the residents of are a little older,HATCH! forward to the bounce house and games in the children’s area, but we
And I WILL NOT they look
Manila, Young Avenue, and Oliver, the presentation given by Sutton Mora Hayes the Executive Not all of life can take in where it is safe and warm, whether in an eggshell music that,
make sure they also be livedthe wide range of arts and crafts and the incredibleor under theas
Director of the CYDC and Stoy Bailey’s detailed research into the traffic hazards this design would Memphians, they enjoy as their birthright.
covers. But just like when we turned on the light in our childhood dark room and discovered the
impose. Stoy represented RAAA. My oldest child is now ten—still a kid, but also beginning to step out into the realm that exists
monster was a shadow, we must shine light on our grown up fears and face our grown up
beyond the kiddie section of life. He still likes a bounce house, as long as, you know, it’s for big
Ms. Glover appealed the decision and it was submitted to the Board of Adjustment a second monsters in order to live our lives fully.
kids, and he’d never turn down a snow cone, but i’m curious to see what else catches his attention
time. it was denied a second time. She then appealed and the case was sent before the Land Use I love the ocean metaphor for life: the waves surge and subside sometimes bringing to shore
this year. A budding artist himself, will he develop a new-found appreciation for inlaid glass
Control Board. wonderful living things, sometimes taking away and destroying life on shore. But the waves never
mosaic stepping stones, or will he gravitate to the metalwork porch ornaments? Hand-glazed
The application was denied by the Land Use Control Board and now it will be presented to the stop. They will continue to
pottery or witty folk art placards painted with declarations like “You’re dirty, your feet stink, and
Memphis City Council for approval. There is no date set for the meeting, but the CYCA will notify you don’t suffering, sadness,
bring pain,love Jesus”?
its residence when a date is selected. At seven, his along with is
and catastrophelittle brotherso the family musician. Outside of semi-monthly Rock-n-Romps in
Many community members who attended these hearings took time from work to show their much that is beautiful and
summer, how many kid-friendly venues for local music are there? The festival offers the perfect
support. i cannot express my admiration for them enough. While i am able to attend these opportunity and joyful.
magniﬁcent for him to indulge in a little local guitar-hero worship and marvel at the sheer range
meetings to represent Cooper-Young, it is much more powerful and impressive to board, commis- musical to stay safe in The
of If we try styles on offer. our girls, ages six and two, may be more focused on games, toys, and
gs and sion and council members to see the faces of our neighborhood represented in the meetings. food, but i don’t doubt that
shell, (Pretend you are a seasomething pretty will catch their eye or that they’ll find themselves
. Please try to attend if you can. We will notify our members of important meetings via email. unconsciously rocking to
turtle if you don’t like my the beat as we pass near the performance area.
ase On another personal note, you may be asking yourself, why i titled this article the “Web of Life.” One of the most amazing
mixed metaphor.) we miss things about the festival is the way it has doubled and tripled in size
s. This i ask you to take five seconds to think about how you would feel if you arrived home from work, since those first years of my attendance. it makes me happy to see the way people from all over
what comes to shore. So, if we
et the city and surrounding suburbs come to partake in the magic of this one little intersection. My
one day to find the trees on your property cut to the ground. Whom would you call first, the accept that the wave is
h kids are too young to worry, as i do, about suburban sprawl or how many centers of activity one
police, your attorney, the CYCA, everyone you can think of? Would you want your neighbors and coming why not learn to surf?
metropolitan area can realistically support. i know they won’t give a second thought to the
the community to be empathetic and supportive? We will probably swallow a lot of sea water, maybe get a sun burn, but have a great ride.
swarms of people sporting Obama buttons, although they’re likely to notice the abundance of silly
The long and short of it is that what happens to one of us happens to all of us. Sandy Furrh, LCSW, is a therapist afﬁliated with The Pilgrim Counseling Center at First Congrega-
hats. But i hope that, subconsciously, each of them will take in the vibrant and diverse flow of life
ndle, it is hard to calculate how many e-mails and phone calls the association receives a month tional Church. If of a thriving community.for Sandy, you may to be what feels right to them, what
that is the mark you have any questions i want that always contact her at 844-4357, Option 4.
safety concerning adverse events. it amazes me feels like home.
even more how many of these calls are from
ed people who are residents and or property
owners, but are not willing to pay $1.66 a
month (the equivalent of $20 one year
ve household membership) to support the
services they are requesting. if you think that
One Cooper-Young just happens to be a great
it in place to live, you are wrong. Many people
with have devoted countless hours of effort and
thousands of dollars to make it happen.
r Maggie is Community Director for the CYCA.
y are .

t up

not
September 2008 LampLighter 15
$10 22 LampLighter December 2007
917 S. Cooper Sowell and Company
Becca Dickerson 237-7729

16 LampLighter September 2008
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
mca
Adult Continuing Education
Drawing / Painting / Woodworking / Enameling / Life Drawing /
Photography / Glass Fusing / and more!

Saturday School
Ages 5 – 16
Drawing / Painting / Sculpture / Clay / Photography / Digital Arts

Portfolio Development
Ages 16-18

Classes begin October 4

Memphis College of Art Community Education
A Memphis tradition for over 70 years
Professional staff & studios

Overton Park | 1930 Poplar Avenue | (901) 272-5142 | www.mca.edu

September 2008 LampLighter 17
FESTIVAL offered to beautifully frame an artist signed
poster with proceeds being donated back to
continued from page 1
the CYBA. Elizabeth Beard-Ward is the 2008
from Young Avenue Deli to Meda, there will be
Poster Artist and with BA Framer as the Official
something for everyone to look at, touch and
Framer of this year’s poster you can’t go wrong.
possibly take home. This year, the vendor
BA Framer is located at 1680 Union Avenue
booths sold out in an amazing thirty hours with
in Midtown; The owner, Danny Bubnick; came
300 applications being submitted the first
up with this marvelous idea. Danny will have
nineteen hours. We have over 100 on a
an inventory of signed posters at his shop and
waiting list. So while at the Festival, grab some
you can pick between a black or silver frame
hand-made paper for your Mom, a tie-dye skirt
for $45. You can also place an order at the
or a ceramic dish for your best friend and head
Kickoff Party on September 11. Thank you to
over to hear some music.
BA Framer for being a proud sponsor of this
Guitar master, Eric Gales will be headlining
year’s Cooper-Young Festival
the event this year along with sixteen other
The Festival 4-Miler Race will be Friday,
bands playing on three stages. Stages are in
September 12 beginning at 7 p.m. at the
front of Young Avenue Deli, in First Congo’s
Trestle Art located on Central. Registration and
parking lot and at the corner of Young and
post-party is at Bluff City Sports located at 769
Meda just past Java Cabana. This year, we
South Cooper Street. Richard Coletta and his
have an assortment that everyone will like
team are expecting over 1000 racers to come
from Grace Askew to the Mouserocket. You
to this popular fundraiser of the Cooper-Young
can find a full lineup of this year’s music at
Community Association. Visit www.cooper-
www.cooperyoungfestival.com.
young.com to register or for more information.
The Thursday night before the Festival, we
The party after the race is always great fun
will host the Festival Kickoff and Poster Party.
with free food, refreshments and live music.
The Kickoff is the first of two pre-Festival
The big event is Saturday, September 13
activities to start the Festival weekend off. it will
starting promptly at 9 a.m. i would like to
be held Thursday, September 11 at the
thank the large group of men and women of
icehouse located at 2166 Central from 6 to 9
the Memphis Police Department that will be
p.m. The icehouse is the home to the Midtown
on-hand the day of the Festival to keep us safe
Martial Arts group. This is where you can meet,
and our very generous sponsors this year. The
Elizabeth Beard-Ward, our Poster Artist for
Festival committee would like to personally
2008. Elizabeth has been a resident in the
thank each our sponsors for their generous
neighborhood for some seventeen years. She
support of our neighborhood.
has been a Festival committee volunteer since
See you at the Pronto Pup stand at
the beginning of the Festival. She is known for
9 a.m., be there, be square—corner of
her campy, funny Memphis art, faux finishing,
Cooper and Young.
painted murals and architectural renderings.
There will be a silent auction for the original
poster art and Elizabeth will be on-hand to
personally autograph this year’s poster.
Come to the Kickoff Party, bring your friends
for some dancing and soul oldies by local DJ
Jason Sims and refreshments donated by
Tsunami, Sweet, Buns on the Run, Lou’s Pizza,
Café Ole, Beauty Shop, Do Sushi and Celtic
Crossing. D. Canale Beverages is sponsoring
this event and there will be an open wine bar.
if you collect Cooper-Young posters, then we
have a treat for you. BA Framer has graciously

FESTIVAL SPONSORS

18 LampLighter September 2008
Booth Booth Title A59 Mid-South Pride A116 Rene Nickel A174 For the Love of Vintage C28-39 Mark McKie
A1 Bluegreen Vacations Unlimited A60 Kidder Arts A117 Certon italian Handcraft A175 Folk Art by Slim C30 Cool Stuff Memphis
A2-3 CYDA A61 Just For You By Susie Q A118 Manasha A176 Marjorie Mebane Originals C31 Archimedes Attic
A4 CYDC A62 Designs By R & R A119 Jes Crownover A177 JS Pleasure C32 WRVR FM104
A5 Transforming Bodies A63-64 Art By The Case A120 Notes From Memphis A178 Stamatia Jewelry Design C33 SNAP! 94.1
A6 House Of Mews A65 Southern Soy A121 James Richardson Photography A179 SewBusy C34 Do Sushi
A7 Anderson’s Pottery A66 PawPrint Clothing Co. A122 T. Clifton Art A180 imagine Brazil C35-35 Beauty Shop
A8 Servo Group A67 Photographic Spectrums A123 Rock, Paper, Scissors A181 Emily Allison C37 Memphis Heritage, inc.
A9-10 New Contemporary Works BY Amery A68 John D’s Wood Things A124 Terri Lindelow Designs A182 Wolf Ridge Crafts C38 Bell Fine Art Jewelers
A11 National Ornamental Metal Museum A69 Carolyn Thompson Luxury A125 Playhouse On The Square A183 New Day C39 Jennifer Hyatt Metal Art
A12 Spring River Candles Bath & Body A126 Wilmot Originals Work A184 Paintings by Cheryl C40 Open Driveway
A13 WEVL FM 89.9 A70 By My Hands Mosaics A127 Taralah’s Gifts A185 Margaret Warren Sculpture C41 Sumner Winter Studios
A14-15 Hand Carved Wooden Gifts A71 Pure Art A128 Ooh La La Beads/ S. Rocks & Fossils A186 WKNO C42 Oakpond Glass
A16 B K Bags A72 ObaMetalsmith A129 Willow Designs A187 Memphis Cat Furniture C43 Crop Circle Designs
Jack Walden Jr A73 Heaven and Earth Pottery A130-131 SJS images A188 Sierra Club - Chickasaw Group C44 Art Works
A18 Gifts in Glass A74 Art By Susan A132 Abstract Art & Photography A189 Bearly Chenille C45 Pilgrim Center Counseling
A19 Bucheye Hallow A75 Healing Hands Chair Massage A133-134 Lux A190 SartinArt C46 Mid-South Peace and Justice Center
A20 Bratton Construction A76 Sonalis A135 Concession A191 Wolfden ironworks C47 Defense Depot - Concerned Citizens
A21 Dilly & Dough A77 Cosmic Caravan A136 Lenny’s Sub Shop A192 M & M Handcrafts C48 Global Goods Fair Trade
A22 B&H Creations A78 Joy Wright A137 Don Blalock A193 Claude & Noreen Stained Glass C49 Memphis Gay Youths
A23 Quilted Cottage A79 Novelty Windmills A138 Love For Sale A194 Memphis Freethought Alliance C50 First Congregational Church
A24 Pottery By Sandy A80-81 Something Fabulous A139 Jilly Beads A195 Currently Untitled C51 Midtown Craft Mafia
A25 Memphis Friends Meeting A82 Karen Bottlecaps A140 Memphis Literacy Council A196 Smashing Threads C52 Meditation Works
A26 Art n’ Things A83 Wooden Hands A141 Playing With Fire A197 Blue Duck Gems and Minerals C53 Kristi Bauer
A27 Generation A84 Stevie’s Stuff A142 Central Animal Hospital B1 Mewtopia Cat Rescue C54 Antebellum’s
A28 Lisa Lumb A85-86 And The Beads Go On A143 My Little Bugs B2 Kendall Haney Realty C55 Memphis Center for Reproductive
A29 Suncatchers and Nightlights A87 JR’s Pillows A144 Powers Design Studio B3 Ed Wade Studios Health
A30 Judy Vandergrift A88 Greater Memphis Greenline A145 Angel Babies Closet B4 Art by KHaze C56 Puppets Galore
A31 Solstice Studio’s A89 Earthcrafts & Stones A146 Temp U Tatoos B5 Donnangelo Pottery C57 K and J Designs
A32-33 Celtic Crossing A90 Gravois Fare A147-148 MGLCC B6 SilverWear C58 Le Jardin
A34 On The Rag inc. A91 Yusuf Etudaiye A149 Milkmaid Productions B7 Casm Creations C59 PM Fine Art and Photography
A35 Garden Delights A92 LMAC Studio Word Creative A150-151 Amazing Lace B8 Elisebeth C60 Friends For Life
A36 Tear it Up A93 in The Eye Designs A152 imaggionation B10 McCarter Coasters C61 Mid South Aids Coalition, Bio Script
A37 Door Of Hope A94 Through The Portals A153 Attic Dwellers B11 indie Memphis Film Festival C62 Denise Brown’s Pottery
A38 Stephanie Dwyer Designs A95 Distinctive Art Glass A154 Heifer Project int. B12 T. Putterbaugh Gill Pottery C63 Covered With Paint
A39 Kristine Reis Designs A96 Lynne’s Pearls A155 Soy Creations & More B13 imagination Welcome, Glassical C64 Cross Art by Claudia
A40 RP Fuderburk Birdhouses A97 Modern Belle A156 india Memphis B14 Blockhead Arts C65 Marjorie’s Meltdowns
A41-42 Paintings & Photos By Dottie Harness A98 interior & Garden.com A157 Studio 1688 B15 Kelly Gourds C66 D & J Creations
A43 Memphis Woodturning A99 Memphis Grizzlies A158 Trinkets & Treasures B16 Candy Cain Art C67 Galloway United Methodist Church
A44 MPM Designs Stained Glass A100 Love Nation Creations A159 Paeaya B20 93x C68 Curtsies Collective
A45 The Metal Sculptor A101 MikCon Creations A160-161 Memphis Drum Shop B21 Funky Ladies Studio D1 irish Creations
A46-47 Rich’s Traditional Folk Art A102 Art By Lisa A162 FM100 B22 Essential Scents D2 KMT Creations
A48 Mary Leigh Designs A103 Morrisette Pottery A163 Lila’s a.r.t. B23 Calming influence Massage & D3 KC’s Clip Joint
A49 Creative Wire Jewelry A104 The Nellie Olesons A164 Chimes and Lines Bodywork D4 Fran’s Florist, inc
A50-51 Ann Smith A105 Parker Prints A165 Eason Bell B24 KJ’s Realm of Weirdness for Weird D5 Southern Chicks
A52 Jen Winfrey A106-107 J & S Designs A166 Rae and Holtermonster People D6 Bella Designs from italy
A53 Marokel Handcrafted Jewelry A108 Food Awareness Resource Tools A167 Rozelle Artist’s Guild B25 Bob x Art (Murano Glass)
A54 Kord-On Blu Gormet Jewelry A109 Vernon Wood -Pet Hats and Tags A168 Painted by Holly B26 YMCA of Memphis D7 Band in My Hand LLC
A55 Grandma Betty’s Antiques and Coll. A110 Church Health Center A169 Friends of Our Riverfront B27 Weidhaasdesign D8 Art by Art
A56 Cathy’s Candles A111-112 Dell Clark A170 Soul Fish B28 Unbelievable Amature Photography D9 Steven Carter Photography
A57 Sam’s Town A113-114 Sweet A171 Blue Sky Tie Dye B29 Lester Jones D10 Beauty Hound
A58 Touch Of Class A115 Burke’s Book Store A172-173 Hemophelia Preferred Care B30 Goner Records D11 Cottage Collection
B31-32 Casablanca D12 Castle Delites
I’m hungry, where’s the grub? 2008 B33 Lou’s Pizza Pie D13 Reconfigured

2008 Cooper Young MUSIC LINEUP
B34-35 Hi-Octane Vintage
B36 - 37 Yvonne Bobo Studios
D14 Tennessee Equality Project
D15 For Girls Only Parties

Festival Food B38 Elke’s Bees
B39 Amanda Lane Photography
D16 The Blues Foundation
D17 Tia Romero

Elzey Entrance Lenny’s Sub Shop Bottled Water
EAST STAGE B40-41 Java Cabana D18 Aroma4u
B42 Bela Notte D19 Gurkee’s Sandals
West Evelyn Mama D’s italian ice Large Pretzels and Assorted Flavors 12:30 PM PEzz B43 Loudean’s D20 Bleu-Lulu
of italian ice 1:30 PM JOHN PAUL KEITH B44 Laloshsilver D21 Natural Sense
Children’s Area Pronto Pups Pronto Pups and Soft Drinks AND 1-4-5’S B45 ViNi D22 isabelle Designs
Children’s Area Snowie of Memphis Assorted Flavors of Snow Cones B46 Originals: Artwork & Prints D23 Montage-Creative Letters for your
2:30 PM TETANUS B47 Annie’s Attic Home
Children’s Area Lenny’s Sub Shops Cookies and Bottled Water
3:30 PM IRON MIC B48 Delta Silver D24 Southern Silverworks
Gazebo Area Nutty Occasions Sugared and Spiced Assorted Nuts COALITION B49 Memphis Blues Society D25 Helen’s Asian Treasures
Gazebo Area Bake No Mistakes New York Hot Dog Stand B50 Girls With Guitars D26 Psychic
4:30 PM SNOWGLOBE
Gazebo Area Dixon Lemonade Lemonade Stand B51 Ear Art Designs/Rings and Wraps- D27 Classy Bag Ladies
Gazebo Area Lenny’s Sub Shops Bottled Water Awareness Products D28 Tastefully Simple

CONGO STAGE
B52 Sarah Casey, Marty Stouts D29 Michael Rocks
Bank Parking Garibaldi Pizza Pizza, Toasted Ravioli’s, italian
C1 Lizi Beard-Ward D30 Wearable Wire
Sandwiches, iced Tea, Soft Drinks C2 Chuck’s Fabulous 50’s D31 Citizens to Preserve Overton Park
12:15 PM ENERGY D
Bank Parking Maxwell’s Concessions Funnel Cakes, Lemonade, C3 Glassfused Jewlery and Kiln Fired D32 Aihu Essentials For Healing
Snowcream, Cotton Candy, Drinks 1:15 PM BILLY WORLEY Glass D33-34 Gifts to Go
Bank Parking Pronto Pups Pronto Pups and Soft Drinks AND THE C4 Darla Linerode Henson Glassworks D35 Lucky Bamboo and Sunglasses
Bank Parking italian Sausage italian Sausage and Soft Drinks CANDYCOMPANY C5 B. Blankenship, R. McCarroll Pottery D36 Wood Roses
C6 - 7 Artwork By Barry Joyce D37 Relax Spa Escapes by BeautiControl
Bank Parking Dixon Lemonade Lemonade, Nachos, Cotton Candy, 2:15 PM GRACE ASKEW
C8 State Farm insurance D38 Kat Kreations
Funnel Cakes, Snow Cones 3:15 PM THE WARBLE C9 Hung D39 Jewelry by Patricia
East Stage Maxwell’s Concessions Funnel Cakes, Lemonade, C10 Lisa Hudson Pottery/Holy Terra D40 The Nile Egyptian Collectibles &
4:15 PM CITY CHAMPS
Snowcream, Cotton Candy, Drinks C11 Roger Styers Hot Glass incense
East Stage Frozen Custard Creations Different flavors of Frozen Custard C12-13 Tracy Parish Memoribelia D41 Cookie Lee
C14 Woodturnings D42 Two-Blessed
East Stage
First Congo
Maxwell’s Concessions
Pronto Pups
Gyros, Lemonade and Soft Drinks
Pronto Pups and Soft Drinks
MAIN STAGE C15 Rainbow Yarn & Fibres D43 Artistic Touch Home Accents
C16 Another Day Studio D44 Cherie’s Jewelry
First Congo Maxwell’s Concessions Soft Drinks Hamburgers, Hotdogs, 11:30 AM LAMPLIGHTER
C17 ECO ART Creative Metal Recycling D45 Memphis Candle Co.
JUNIOR JEMBE
Chicken Fries, Cotton Candy C18 Mr. Hyde’s Leather Masks D46 Magic Shirts
DRUM TROUPE
First Congo Crepe Maker Handmade Crepes - C19-20 Tie Dyes by Fawn and Tino D47 Filigree, inc.
Assorted Fillings and Soft Drinks 12:15 PM U OF M JAzz BAND C21 Nikolai - The Artist D48 Best Wishes Boutique
C22 Seedybeader D49 Woodwork by Kevin Harrington
First Congo Bella Caffe Fruit Smooties and 1:15 PM BY ALL MEANS
C23 Wooden Furniture D50 For You Only
Creative Coffees 2:15 PM MOUSEROCKET C24 The Brooks D51 The Purse Strings
First Congo Dixon Lemonade Lemonade, Nachos, Cotton Candy, C25 Roy Osgathorpe D52-53 Trinkets and Baubles
3:15 PM THE TENNESSEE C26 Paul Baker D54 Jada Designs
Funnel Cakes, Snow Cones
TEARJERKERS C27 Med Phipps D55 Vonstein Designs

September 2008 LampLighter 19
20 LampLighter September 2008
SUBSCRiBE NOW

CYCA offer: Hip theatre for hip people
WHiTNEY JO

Playhouse is artsy. Playhouse is intimate. Playhouse is friendly. Playhouse is family. Playhouse
is comfortable. Playhouse cares about Memphis. Playhouse cares about people. Sound familiar?
The synergy of the Playhouse on the Square and Cooper-Young already exists it is time for
Playhouse to share its happiness with all of the members of the Cooper-Young Community
Association. We know that times are tight, but we also know that good food, good wine, and good
entertainment are necessary for all of our sanity. CY definitely has great food and wine and
Playhouse has great entertainment.
Playhouse offers three theatres within two miles of CY, sixteen productions each year, thirteen
educational and outreach programs that reach 50,000 or more patrons a year and 30,000 or
more children each year. in an effort to reach out to CY, Playhouse on the Square, Memphis’
professional theatre company, would like to offer all Cooper-Young Community Association
Members an opportunity to experience professional live theatre at a drastically reduced rate.
For CYCA Members:

Regular season subscription (eight admissions) for $125. This special price represents:
• 25 percent off the regular season subscription price
• 48 percent savings off the single ticket price
• Eight admissions for Playhouse on the Square and The Circuit Playhouse
• These eight admissions are extremely flexible. You can use them however you wish—you come
to eight shows, or bring a friend to four shows, or bring seven friends to one show.
Playhouse will feature the following shows during this season: 1776, The Glass Menagerie, A
Year with Frog and Toad, Seussical, Altar Boyz, A Tuna Christmas, History Boys, The Light in the
Piazza, Hats! The Red Hat Society Musical, Romeo and Juliet, Third, into the Woods, The Little Dog
Laughed, and Rent.
For more information or to subscribe, call Playhouse on the Square at 725-0776. Be sure to
identify yourself as a CYCA member. And if you are not currently a member of the CYCA, you
can contact the CY offices at 272-2922 or visit www.cooperyoung.org. Visit www.playhou-
seonthesquare.org for more information about Playhouse on the Square’s season and the
season subscriptions.

September 2008 LampLighter 21
N AT I O N A L N I G H T O U T
1 Cooper-Young celebrated National Night Out on August 5. The
neighborhood held more than thirty parties. Photo 6: Target
volunteers met at the Community Office on August 5 to prepare gift
bags and balloons that were delivered to 21 parties in Cooper-Young.
Each party received a $20 gift card that was raffled off at the party
and gift bags of sweets and give aways from Target.
Photo 1: The Target volunteers who worked with
CY volunteers were: (l to r)
James Warmbrod, Tiana Chrisman, Steve Murray,
James Ford, Deryl Gardner, and Josh Mayo.

Photo 2: Glen Thomas proudly poses with the bike he
won as part of the NNO giveaway sponsored by Target.
Thank you target!

The remaining photos are of Cooper-Young residents
enjoy parties held around the neighborhood. If you have
more photos of your party and would like to share them,
please send them to us at info@cooperyoung.com. .
2

22 LampLighter September 2008
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my
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4 LampLighter December 2007

September 2008 LampLighter 23
22 LampLighter December 2007
BOOKWORM

ANiMAL FETE
When Worlds Collide: The Eyre affair

K i M B E R LY R i C H A R D S O N
Fall activities on tap for pet lovers
No matter how many times i read Jane Eyre, the Gothic DEBORAH CAMP
novel still enthralls me, giving me goose bumps synony-
mous with reading such a work. The mad and mysterious Depending upon your calendar, you can become aware of obscure salutes to such things as
wife locked in the attic, the dashing yet brooding Edward
mushrooms and pianos. September is the month we’re asked to recognize not only these items
Rochester, the plain yet resilient Jane Eyre. These
but also many others, some funny, some serious. This is Update Your Resume Month, Organic
characters will stand the test of time, forever entertaining
Harvest Month, and among dozens of others, it’s also Subliminal Communications Month. The
readers with their narratives and personal histories.
weekly observances include National Waffle Week, Banned Books Week, and Substitute Teacher
However, how would the readers react if someone tried
Appreciation Week. Daily observances include Bald is Beautiful Day (Sept. 13), Talk Like a Pirate
to re-write the novel, removing characters near-and-dear
to us, thereby changing the entire story and creating Day (Sept.19) and Responsible Dog Ownership Day (Sept. 20).
something entirely different? How would we feel? i’ll go a These salutes to various causes fascinate me and i’m always interested in discovering dates set
bit further. How would we feel if we discovered that the aside to honor our four-legged friends. And fortunately, September does not fail. in our state, we
characters were, quite literally, no longer in the book? are celebrating the fourth annual Tennessee Week for the Animals, which is filled with statewide
What if someone actually jumped into the book with the festivals, pet adoption days, and other family activities. The YMCA and the Bartlett Animal Shelter,
assistance of a portal, stole a character or two, and then slipped out as if nothing happened? What among others, will hold events including 5K runs, silent auctions, and contests for best-dressed
then? impossible? Perhaps. improbable? Maybe not- at least it’s not improbable in the world of pets.
literary detective, Thursday Next. She is the heroine of Jasper Fforde’s incredible and hilarious first Locally, the Peace, Love, and Unity Festival will be held on Saturday, September 20 at Shelby
novel, The Eyre Affair.
Farms. This event will feature booths by animal rescue groups, shelters, educators, artists, and
The novel is set in an alternative England during the 1980s where the Crimean War is still
other animal welfare advocates. There will be food and music, and some of the participants
being fought. There are rising numbers of fights between gangs who support different periods of
include the Animal Protection Association, Good Dog Rescue, Memphis Pit Bull Safe Haven,
art. Fueled by religious fervor, hot debates over the true author of Shakespeare’s plays are all the
Memphis Animal Services, and MidSouth Therapy Dogs. Tennessee Week for the Animals will end
rage. An overflow of religions, where even wombats are sacred, are given with a style and grace
on a high note with the Woofstock Festival in Overton Park on Sunday, September 28. The festival
that is unique, frightening and full of wonder.
This is also a time of passion for all things literary, where black markets are set up to sell will also feature pet adoption and animal rescue groups with booths, food, and live music.
forgeries of famous books passed off as the real thing except for a possible change of character or National Dog Week (Sept. 21-27) is celebrated by shelters and rescue groups not only in
a completely different ending. The country is reminiscent of George Orwell’s 1984 and is ruled Tennessee but across the U.S.A. This tradition began in 1928 when Captain Will Judy, editor and
with an iron fist, known as the Goliath Corporation that infiltrates every aspect of British life, publisher of Dog World Magazine, decided America’s most popular pet deserved a spotlight.
daring anyone to rebel against it. Eventually, an organization was formed around National Dog Week complete with a Manhattan
This world is the stage for a dangerous literary scheme and an even more dangerous man to office. in 1960, Capt. Judy turned over the leadership to the Pet Food institute in Chicago. The
execute the deed. Acheron Hades, a man beyond all concepts of evil, steals a device that allows institute ran it until the mid-seventies when they handed it over to the American Dog Owners
him to enter a book and become part of the Association.
narrative. After successfully removing and
And speaking of dogs, responsible pit bull owners everywhere will want to mark their calendars
murdering a minor but important character in
next month, October 25, for the second annual Pit Bull Awareness Day. in Tennessee, celebra-
Charles Dickens’ novel The Life and Adventures
tions will be held in Memphis, Nashville, Cookeville and Knoxville. The Memphis event will be
Martin Chuzzlewit, Hades sets his sights on even
hosted by Pawsitive Pitbulls & Friends. Pit Bull Awareness Day grew from the efforts of Jodi Preis
bigger game: Jane Eyre. With the help of
whose non-profit organization, Bless the Bullys Pit Bull Rescue, takes in bull breeds that have been
Charlotte Bronte’s character Edward Rochester,
Thursday stops and defeats the madman before abandoned, abused, or neglected. Jodi said she came up with the idea for a day of recognition for
the classic is lost to readers forever. this maligned and misunderstood breed because, “it’s very unfair that all you hear about are the
Through this novel, Fforde has given readers bad news stories, when there are so many responsible pit bull owners out there.” Last year around
a new reason to love reading by revealing what 150 events took place across the nation in celebration of the breed.
they already know through a well-blended Plans for these events are unfortunately clouded by the efforts of lawmakers in Rockwood,
kaleidoscope of chaos and order. The author’s Tennessee, to restrict not only American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and American
style of writing is filled with literary innuen- Staffordshire Terriers but also Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, and German
does tickling even the purist of classic Shepherds. Those who have seen the proposed ordinance fear that the approval of breed specific
literature readers.
laws in this small middle Tennessee community of 6000 could set an unwelcome precedent.
The scene in which Thursday’s uncle Mycroft
Advocacy groups emphasize that dangerous dog ordinances do need to exist but argue they do
shows off his bookworms and their usage of
not need to be breed specific. Dogs should be judged on their individual temperament and
devouring pages from a book is just one
behavior—otherwise people could be lulled into a false sense of security, as any breed of dog can
example. However, even those who are not
prone to reading classic works will still enjoy be potentially dangerous.

the overall Monty Python-style humor that is September is also, ironically, Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month. i mention this because The
never boring or melodramatic. The literary Lamplighter has a new editor who began the process of taking over the reins this month and
world is no longer confined to just ink and needs all the kindness she can get! Also, after almost six years of writing a monthly pet column
paper, its world has become our own. for this publication, i am signing off. i may return with occasional articles, but the pressures of
time and other responsibilities have forced me to make some difficult choices. Thanks to my
readers who have shared their stories, comments and ideas with me. Let’s all stay committed to
improving the status and welfare of animals in our community.
Contact Deborah Camp at 525-0552, or dcamp@memphisbusiness.com for comments.

24 LampLighter September 2008
SMALL SCHOOL

Natural Learning offers childcare and
arts during the Festival
LiSA WiLLiAMSON
Ahhhhhh, that is the sound you should make as you drop your child off at school after the
long, hot summer; trustful that they will be well taken care of in their new environment and given
the education they deserve.
A new school year holds promise and optimism, and here at the Natural Learning School, we
have lots of reasons to be optimistic. We are kicking off our second year after a very successful
first year. This time last fall our moms were painting our classrooms, our bookshelves were being built
and installed by our dads, and our kids were testing each and every new toy and leaning materials in
the classroom. The coolest thing about our school, however, is the Atelier or art studio.
This room is equipped with easels, paints, markers, objects for collage, items from the environ-
ment (shells, leaves, nuts, twigs, etc.), a light table to view the transparency of things, clay, wire,
baskets and clear containers for displaying a multitude of other materials. it is the simplest-
looking room by far, but it produces the most complex ideas from our littlest thinkers. During the
school year, the walls become artistically decorated with the many projects developed by the
children using art to understand different subjects and to express their own ideas.
After a successful and inspiring first year, we breathe a long, “ahhhhhhh” as we carry the
Reggio philosophy into year two. Our children will be exposed to visiting teachers from Brazil,
even more educational materials derived from Reggio Emilia, and a slightly altered environment,
as we continue to change and grow and improve.
Our school is small, but it has always been, and will continue to be, our goal to provide an
opportunity for other children in the community to experience the benefits of the Reggio Emilia
education. A philosophy that offers a way for teachers to harness their young charges’ natural
curiosity and creativity, by encouraging them to work on projects that interest them. This
approach also encourages children to communicate their new-found knowledge and under-
standing in a wide variety of media, often with outstanding creative results.

The Natural Learning School will offer childcare during the CY Festival.

Here are some unique aspects of the Natural Learning School:
• Reggio Emilia philosophy of deep respect for children
• Multiage (Less competition, children teach each other, feel competent and stay with the same
teacher and friends for two to three years)
• Beautiful, home-like environment, best way to transition from home to school
• Ratio seven children for two teachers in a spacious and charming bungalow home
• Green teaching: recycled furniture and materials, composting, recycling, organic garden, natural
cleaning material, organic snack
• Emotional literacy (teach children to understand their feelings)
• Time and space to explore their own ideas and interest
• Homeschool resource center: a place for homeschooling families to learn
• Constant investment on teachers development
• Exchange with international schools (teachers coming to teach and learn)
• Community as classroom (children visit the many business in our area and work on projects to
benefit the community)
Be sure to look for us this year at the Cooper Young Festival, where we will offer arts and crafts
next to the children’s area next to the Literacy Council. We’ll also have child care for parents
wishing to enjoy a couple of hours of Festival child-free. This will be offered in the school located
at 1992 Nelson Ave. in Cooper Young.
The first hour is free to any parent that brings this article with them to the school during
the Cooper-Young Festival (this offer applies to one child per family). The additional hours will
cost $7 per hour. Call 725-9467 for details and reservations. Drop in for a visit, and see what
we are all about!

September 2008 LampLighter 25
Call Charles McKelroy
Branch Manager, 729-2250

Midtown Branch
1516 Union Avenue, Memphis

www.cadencebanking.com Member FDIC

personal training
nutritional consulting

26 LampLighter September 2008
the exquisite desserterie

STYLISH AND COZY • SWEET AND SAVORY
WE’RE MORE THAN JUST CAKE
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938 South Cooper • Memphis, TN 38104 • 901-726-4300

September 2008 LampLighter 27
P L AY H O U S E R E V i E W

‘Holly’ shines during
musical numbers
R iC H B U LLi NGTON
Last month, i took a deep breath, put on my “dedi-
cated daddy” hat, and took my kids to see High School
Musical at Circuit Playhouse. it was a spirited production,
and it was nice to see local kids showcasing their talents.
But it was High School Musical. After a while, every musical number sounded like the other and i
was dizzy from the inane lyrics. Let’s just say i’m not the target demographic and leave it at that.
When it was time to see Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, i had a great idea; why not take the
kids to this one as well? Time to broaden their horizons and give them a taste of what real music
sounds like. The three of us put on our darkly framed glasses, not exactly the horn-rimmed
version made popular by Holly, but serviceable – and set off for a rock-and-roll remedy to
Disney’s pop album.
Playhouse on the Square’s production of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, directed by Emily
Wells, provided that remedy and much more. The play follows the short but eventful life of the
influential musical icon, from local Country star in Lubbock, Texas to national rock-and-roll
phenomena.
it’s a familiar story, even if you don’t know much about the man. in many ways, Buddy
Holly’s life is the rock-and-roll myth. While everyone tries to tell him what to do, a talented singer/
songwriter aims for stardom and bucks the system, doing things his way. He falls in love. He
makes the Big Time. Tensions mount between his band mates – in this case, the Crickets – and
him. And, of course, the traumatic ending, in which Buddy dies in a plane crash at a young age,
living fast and dying young.
it is difficult, maybe impossible, to avoid cliché in this familiar story. A long sequence during
which Holly and the Crickets lay down demos of some of their biggest hits in a recording studio is
imaginatively directed and fun. On the other hand, there are labored attempts to provide other
familiar elements of the story. For example, near the end of the production, the Crickets decide to
split with Holly. This may very well be true to life, but it becomes a real burden to the play, and it
slows down the production at a crucial point. While it may be an important element of Holly’s
career, it is difficult to care much at this late point in the play.
We, as the audience, are anxiously awaiting the next musical number. The production shines
during the numerous musical performances, covering all of Holly’s hits and a few others for good
measure. There are a number of talented musicians on stage, but credit really must be given to
Todd Meredith, playing the man himself. Meredith is in no way a stranger to the role; he has
played Buddy Holly in five other productions of the play throughout the country. in addition to
hrough providing a sincere performance and dynamic musical numbers, Meredith shines with a palpable
ure for respect and love for his character.
He rocks, too, as does the entire production. Both acts end in fantastic concert scenes. if you
ions
aren’t at least tapping a foot, though jumping up and dancing is also encouraged during these
act
scenes, well, you’re probably better off going back to High School Musical. Act One culminates in
Holly and the Crickets appearing at the Apollo in Harlem, surprising the audience with their lighter
me artist
skin pigmentation. They end up winning the audience over with “Peggy Sue,” “Oh Boy,” and a
n
rment scorching rendition of “Not Fade Away.” This number alone is worth the price of admission.
er life The play ends with Buddy’s last concert in Clearlake, iowa. The concert takes up the majority
of of the second act, and it really captures the excitement of an early rock-and-roll concert. in
and addition to Meredith rocking the set, Andrew Y. Moore is really fun as The Big Bopper performing
ed into “Chantilly Lace.” And Chris McCollum riles up the audience as Richie Valens, shaking his hips
alm through “La Bamba” (the one number my kids actually recognized).
During the production, i noticed if it weren’t for my kids, i would be one of youngest in
attendance– something i’m finding rarer year-after-year. While it is nice to see people reliving
r all
some pop culture moments, i couldn’t help but think it was a bit of a shame that no other kids
were there. Save for a scattering of coarse language here-and-there, this could be fun for the
whole family. And it certainly is a great way to offset the potential damage an overexposure to
High School Musical could inflict. While my son loved Circuit Playhouse’s production of Disney’s
“tween” cash cow, he left Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story proclaiming “That is the best play i have
ever seen!” For that, i owe thanks to Todd Meredith and Playhouse on the Square. Score one for
Rock ‘n Roll.
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story runs through September 14 at Playhouse on the Square. The Box
Office is located at 51 South Cooper. You can contact the Box Office at 726-4656 or www.playhou-
seonthesquare.org for tickets or more information.

28 LampLighter September 2008
CYCA
Membership Benefits
Buns on the Run: Free dessert with purchase
Blue Fish: 10 percent off any one entrée on a weeknight
Young Ave Deli: Enjoy one complimentary lunch or dinner entrée
when a second of equal or greater value is purchased (up to $7)
Soul Fish Café: Enjoy one complimentary lunch or dinner entrée
CONFUSED ABOUT MEMBERSHiP? when a second of equal or greater value is purchased (up to $7)
Check out these Questions and Answers Lou’s Pizza Pie: 10 percent off every time you show your
membership card
How do I find out if I’m my membership is current? Java Cabana: Buy one get one free Coffee of the day
Simply call the office at 272-2922, OR stop by the office at 2298 Young, OR stop by the booth at InBalance Fitness: 20 percent discount on group classes.
the CY Festival on September 13. Outback Steak House: One free appetizer with the purchase of
I thought membership was a one time fee when I moved into Cooper-Young! an entrée up to $7.29.
Membership dues are on an annual basis. For the past two years, memberships have been valid
from January – December each year. Renewals are due in January 2009.

What do I get for my membership?

Your membership includes discounts worth over $35 dollars to CY merchants. Also your membership
helps fund:
• Community Offices & Meeting Space: 2298 Young Avenue
• One Part-Time Staff Member
• CYCA Hotline: 901-272-2922
• The LampLighter Newspaper
• Maintaining, Insuring, and Keeping the Lights on at the Trestle Art
• Neighborhood Advocacy to governmental agencies & others
• Volunteer Appreciation Efforts
• Mini-grants to Block Clubs
• Community Safety Email alerts
• www.CooperYoung.org
• Special Events

Can I have more than one membership to double up on the savings from the
local merchants?

Absolutely! And each membership gets you an additional vote at the Annual meeting where we
elect officers.

How can I get involved with the membership committee?

Call the office at 272-2922, email us at info@cooperyoung.org, or come to the next membership
meeting at 10 AM on Saturday September 6, 2008.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Upcoming membership meetings:
10 AM on Saturday September 6, 2008 at CYCA Offices at 2298 Young
6 PM on Wednesday October 8, 2008 at CYCA Offices at 2298 Young

Our Strength is in our diversity!

September 2008 LampLighter 29
FICTION

Tiffany’s Breakfast 6: Disgusting, but Somehow Endearing
JON DEViN

John Hamill was in heaven. Surrounded by the symphonic chaos of “wow” as a bulky, bald, fortyish man in a tank top walked by with
his first Cooper-Young Festival, dragging Vincent Astor from booth- black tiger stripes on his neck and both arms.
to-booth, each one more exciting than the last, he poured over vast “He wins,” said Vic.
collections of earthenware pottery, iron yard ornaments, fish made out “No freakin-kidding.”
of bottle caps, pen and ink portraits, soaps made by eighty-year-old “Want one of my beers?”
women from the Mississippi Delta, congo drums, birdhouses, tie-dyed “Yeah, the one you haven’t drunk out of yet,” laughed Alex. Why
cotton jumpers, and any number of goods that he’d never seen before. this lunkhead seemed suddenly amusing, she wasn’t quite sure.
Vincent, normally so cool in his linen shirts, struggled to keep up Vic had been heroic the night the cops stopped by the house, jumping
with his pastry protégé. He sported a straw boater to stave off the sun naked into the kitchen doorway to block them from looking for her
and fluttered an ivory filigree fan. there. And then he’d been sweet the next day when the cops came
“I want the Day of the Dead light switch plates for sure,” John panted looking again, found her, and explained that her aging Ford Granada
between gulps of beer, “and the Art on a Stick! That was back towards had been stolen and used to commit a burglary. It had been totaled and
Nelson, wasn’t it?” she was uninsured.
“It will be there when you find it again, young man. Slow down, Since, Vic had taken her to the grocery store and chipped in when she
please.” came up two dollars short at the checkout. He’d insisted that she come
“This is, like, so amazing. I want, like, everything” John crowed. over to watch a Tigers game on television and fed her half a dozen
“If you don’t behave I’m leaving.” chocolate chip cookie bars, which John had baked for Vincent’s pastry
“No! Don’t leave, Vincent, this is, like, so much fun!” case at Tiffany’s Breakfast.
“Alex has, like, rubbed-off on you, like. It, like, doesn’t work, like, “Well, here,” said Vic sloshing beer from the half-empty cup in his
for you.” right hand to refill the less empty cup in his left hand. “Good as new,”
John didn’t hear—he dove into a booth of wooden Navajo flutes, he said with an adorable chuckle.
where several children were puffing out their sunburned cheeks, huffing All right, that was disgusting, but somehow endearing, she thought
into the instruments which shrieked wildly. with a smile, and so in a rare but brilliant moment of courage, Alex
Alex and Vic sauntered along behind Vincent, Alex hiding behind lowered her sunglasses, winced in the harsh sun, but for two whole
oversized Jackie O. sunglasses, Vic with a beer in each hand. seconds looked directly into Vic’s smiling brown eyes. You wanted
“Look at this!” John shouted. “Do you believe these ashtrays are someone to listen, she reminded herself. But a pathetic, depressed
made entirely out of recycled toothbrushes? Unbelievable!” artist and frat jock? Won’t work.
“Dude, you don’t smoke,” said Vic, as John leafed through bills in his She lost her courage.
wallet. “So you wanna catch the Tai-Chi demo at First Congo?” she asked
“I know, but I want to support the cause! I’ll send it to my third dryly, and started to turn away, but Vic caught her shoulder, her guard
oldest brother, the pothead.” still down, spun her back to face him and planted a kiss on her lips.
Alex gnawed at the slice of Bluto’s Revenge from Lou’s for which And then for the first time in months, Alex was happy. As happy as
Vic had stood in line for thirty-five minutes. Stirred by her silence, Vic John when he discovered the fleur-de-lis mosaic tile stepping stones
threw her sidelong glance. down the street. As happy as Vincent when he finally got to sit down
John seized Vincent by the wrist and dragged him across the street to and rub his ankles. As happy as the artists of Cooper-Young, rejoicing
look at the Wolf River Conservancy tent. that the short, stubby man who stole Alex’s car had been linked to the
Vic took a sip of the beer in his right hand and fished for something art crucifixions just a couple weeks ago. And perhaps even as happy
to say. as the throng of 60,000 people weaving their way up and down Cooper
“Now there goes a good one,” said Alex, out of the blue. Street and Young Avenue dancing to music, snacking on funnel cakes,
“What’s that?” and baring their ink.
“That guy’s tattoo,” replied Alex pointing at a blazing sun/moon
combination on the shoulder of a shirtless man on roller blades.
“That’s what I like about the Festival. It’s, like, a parade of ink.”
“Oh yeah?” said Vic with a toothy, warming grin. “Didn’t know that
was your thing. I’ve had mine for a couple years now.” He struck a
body-builder pose and flexed his calf so she could she see his super-
scripted Alpha Tau Omega tattoo.
“Nice,” she said unimpressed.
Vic bounced back by cheerily pointing out a rose curling around the
wrist of a young woman pushing a stroller. Alex smiled and directed
him to look at an Asian dragon on the back of another man’s leg. They
both laughed as a scrawny kid in a wife-beater walked by with the word
“Debbie” in slanted script across the side of his neck.
“Holy, freakin’, cow!” exclaimed Alex, and Vic chimed in with a

30 LampLighter September 2008
September 2008 LampLighter 31