MID-SOUTH MEMORIES
25 years ago — 1995
These days finding a cook on duty at a gas station is getting easier than finding a mechanic. That’s because convenience stores that also sell gasoline are trying to lure customers inside with home-style foods, delicatessens or familiar fast foods. ”It’s not a trend, it’s an avalanche,” said Harry Murphy, director of technical services for the Service Station Dealers of America. “Some companies are adding their own delis, and others are going into partnerships with companies like McDonald’s, Subway or Burger King.” In Memphis, you can fill your stomach with a made-to-order deli sandwich or a complete home-cooked meal after you fill your car with gas. Murphy said oil companies have found they sell far more gasoline in units with convenience stores than in those with service bays. ”With service bays, you take in 20 cars in the morning and that’s it,” he said. ”Cars are getting more technical and equipment and training are expensive. Labor is easier and cheaper to get for convenience stores.”
50 years ago — 1970
JACKSON, Tenn. – Eyes glistened, hands reached out and “oohs and aahs” filled the air as Christmas came early for the 24 lads at Youth Town of Tennessee. But the “oohs and aahs” were not limited to the pickup truck loaded with packages. Santa Claus was a girl — Carol Sue Ferrante of Memphis, the reigning Miss Tennessee. For nearly an hour, it was every boy’s dream come true as the 22-yearold, hazel-eyed beauty passed out the latest toys appealing to boys. Miss Ferrante said she has had a “special affection” for the facility for homeless boys. She made her first official visit there in July after receiving her crown. She said she decided several months ago to have a Christmas party for the boys.
75 years ago — 1945
HEIDELBERG – Gen. George S. Patton Jr., indestructible in two World Wars, died in his sleep in a Heidelberg hospital late Friday as the result of a traffic accident. His wife, Beatrice, was beside him when the stout heart of the 60-year-old warrior failed at 5:50 p.m. (10:50 a.m. Memphis time).
Countless friends around the globe mourned the passing of one of America’s greatest military heroes, the wartime leader of the victorious United States Third Army which cut Germany in two in the dying days of the Reich.