MID-SOUTH MEMORIES
25 years ago — 1993
A new hard-hitting advertising campaign by Methodist Hospitals of Memphis has jolted the hospital community. The television and newspaper campaign which began June 24, says independent studies show charges at Methodist are “substantially lower than the city’s largest hospital.” With its pointed reference to rival Baptist Memorial Hospital, the campaign marked the first time a Memphis hospital has targeted a specific competitor in an ad, say marketing directors of other Memphis hospitals. They say it’s also the first time ads in Memphis have focused on hospital charges.
50 years ago — 1968
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — The Boy Scouts of America disclosed Wednesday that it may admit teenage girls into its Explorer ranks. Discussions are in progress with Girl Scouts, Camp Fire Girls and “other organizations,” according to Alden G. Barber, chief Boy Scout executive at national headquarters here. Final decision on the proposal to admit girls into the Explorers branch, for boys 14 to 18 years old, will be announced Oct. 17, Barber said.
75 years ago — 1943
Too busy with war production to celebrate, Memphis will observe this Independence Day with hard work. The big plants which turn out airplane parts, gunpowder and shells will continue operations around the clock. Even the St. Peter’s Orphanage picnic, long a Memphis institution, has been canceled.
100 years ago — 1918
James P. Quinlan, general manager of the St. Peter’s Orphanage picnic, assures us that every arrangement has been made to insure that the event will be a success. The dancing floor of the pavilion has been waxed and there will be a fine band. A special flag, with a star for every boy who grew up at the orphanage and is now in the service, will be raised.
125 years ago — 1893
From an editorial — Next year Tennessee will elect a governor, members of Congress, judges and members of the General Assembly. Usually we elect a fair lot of men for all but the General Assembly positions. The people persist in sending to Nashville a weird assortment of ambitious young lawyers, ax-grinders and fossils. Extra sessions are always having to be called to undo the harm done in the regular sessions. If Tennessee is to move ahead we must send to Nashville men of integrity and common sense.