December Memories (1975, 1984, 1997)

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Description

On 12/21/1975, my brother, Kevin, and I took our Uncle Erv and Aunt Colleen to the revolving tower restaurant at Stouffer’s Riverfront Inn, after attending Mass at The Shrine of St. Joseph. Our mother and young sister took care of our 11-month-old cousin, Sheryl, so we could enjoy the outing. While we were dining, we took a picture of the Gateway Arch, as well as a barge which appeared to have broken loose on the Mississippi River.
On 12/15/1984, my husband’s new employer, EDM, held its Christmas Party at the Clarion Hotel. We only danced to two songs that night, but enjoyed visiting with Pete, Ann, Jerry, Kay, Jeff, and Colean, who were seated at our table. We took advantage of the special room rate that night, leaving the party about Midnight. Our American Express charge was $44.75 ($35 room + $3.75 tax + $6 Stadium Garage parking). The next day we enjoyed brunch at the tower restaurant ($24.44), attended Noon Mass at The Old Cathedral, took a Tram Ride to the top of the Arch ($3), and arrived at The Fox Theatre in plenty of time for the 3 PM performance (for which our tickets cost $37.55). The Judds sang for about one-half hour. Roy Orbison sang four songs (including “Pretty Woman”), after which Lee Greenwood put on a spectacular performance (including “Fools Gold”) for an hour.
On 12/13/1997, EDM held another Christmas Party at the same hotel; however, by then it was known as the Regal Riverfront Hotel. The party began at 7 PM, with dinner at 8 PM, followed by carriage (sleigh) rides starting at 9 PM. The sleigh was equipped with blankets, held four people, and took us around Kiener Plaza. We didn’t spend the night that year, as former neighbors Katie and Chad were caring for our 5-year-old child.
What wonderful memories of the times spent at that hotel, and what sadness overwhelms me in knowing that the Millennium Hotel is currently being demolished.

The 12/21/1975 picture of the Gateway Arch was taken from the tower restaurant at Stouffer’s Riverfront Inn.

Date

December 21, 1975

Contributor

Carol Skasick

Format

Photo