MID-SOUTH MEMORIES
25 years ago — 1997
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Before the end of the year, parents who owe child support in Missouri may see their casino jackpots confiscated by the state. If computer interface problems between state agencies and other issues are resolved, experts say, Missouri could become the first casino gambling state to seize players’ winnings. It’s still uncertain, however, whether the dollars collected would be worth the effort, said Kevin Mullally, deputy director of the Missouri Gaming Commission. “We’re still looking at the cost-effectiveness,” Mullally said. “There’s no way to determine how many deadbeat dads are out there playing slot machines.” The amount of money owed is extraordinary. Teresa Kaiser, director of Missouri’s Division of Child Support Enforcement, said that about $1 billion is delinquent from tens of thousands of Missouri parents. Only about 28 percent of that is collected each year, Kaiser said.
50 years ago — 1972
Danny Thomas was stunned and speechless last night as Representative Dan Kuykendall (R-tenn.) made a surprise announcement of $5 million in federal aid for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Announcement of the grant came as 500 people gathered for the 10th annual anniversary dinner for the hospital at the Sheraton-peabody. A roar, like the sound of cowboys celebrating the end of a long cattle drive, filled the Skyway Room. The money will help finance a seven-story addition to the children’s cancer research hospital, which is expected to cost $8.7 million. 75 years ago — 1947
Telephone union picket lines will be re-established in Memphis tomorrow at 6 a.m., but whether this will again reduce long distance and No. 7 Exchange service to an “emergency only” basis could not be determined last night.
100 years ago — 1922
Whether the new jail shall be next to the Nineteenth Century Club is a matter for the courts to decide as the Nineteenth Century Club and two dozen prominent men and women yesterday secured a temporary injunction at the hands of Chancellor Heiskell to prevent any further steps along that line until the courts shall have finished with the question. The case is set for hearing on May 22 in chancery.
125 years ago — 1897
Miss Lillie Tanner, one of Memphis’ prominent young ladies, was Queen of May at yesterday’s annual German Maifest, held at East End Park.