Fall 1996 The Mu Tau Claw A newsletter of the University of Memphis chapter of Phi Gamma Delta Retired Memphis builder receives Diamond Owl He turned 100 years old this year. Works 5 BRE out three times a week and still plays golf. [7 Built Graceland, long before Elvis took up tesidence. Who is this brother? None other than Robert Crouch (Alabama ’25), recent recipient of the Diamond Owl award to honor his 75 years as a Phi Gamma Delta. Brother Crouch has been a Memphis resident since 1903, moving to the city at age seven. He began his college career at Mississippi State University, but his studies were interrupted by World War I. Crouch fought and was wounded during the First Battle of the Marne in France in September, 1914, After the war, Brother Crouch resumed academics at the University of Alabama, where he pledged Phi Gamma Delta. When he arrived at the train station at Tuscaloosa, all of the ‘Bama fraternities were there to greet the new male students. Said Crouch, “All five wanted me, but Phi Gam was too smart for the rest.” Before graduating, he served as a chapter officer. After college, Crouch began a long and prosperous career in residential and com- mercial construction. The first home he built, which cost a pricey $30,000 decades ago, just recently sold for a cool $7 mil- lion. He built one of the original structures of the Uni- versity Club, where he is a charter member. Upon retirement, Brother Crouch volunteered for the local Veteran’s Administration for 10 years. On his busiest day, he counseled 82 patients. When discussing the homes he built, Crouch said, “Quality comes naturally to me.” Brother Crouch is an inspiration to all who have met him, and gives persis- tence a new meaning. —David Williams '97 Former Archon President to speak at 25th anniversary Pig Dinner Brother Richard McCormick (Iowa State ’61), former Archon President from 1990 to 1992, will deliver the keynote address at the 25th Anniversary Mu Tau Norris Pig Dinner, slated for April 5, 1997. After graduating with an electrical en- _ gineering degree, the Fort Dodge, Iowa native began his telecommunications career in 1961 in Kansas City, Mo., as an engineer for AT&T. After eight years with AT&T, McCormick transferred to Northwest- ern Bell, where he held a variety of assignments before being named president of the Omaha-based company in 1982. A year after the 1984 breakup of AT&T and the creation of U S WEST, he moved to Denver as execu- tive vice president of the new regional Bell operating company. Brother McCormick was elected president and chief operating officer of U S WEST, Inc. in 1986, chief executive officer in 1990 and chairman in 1992. He serves on the boards of UAL Corp. (United Air- lines) and Norwest Corp. He is amember of the board of Creighton University in Omaha, a director of the Ameri- can Indian College Fund, and a director of the Com- munity Reinvestment Fund. He is a trustee of the Con- ference Board and of the Denver Art Museum, serves on the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee, is a member of the Business Roundtable and is chairman of the U.S. Council for International Business. He also served the fraternity as Archon Councilor from 1986 to 1988 and as vice president from 1988 until his election as president. He has received the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America, Out- standing Young Alumnus Award from Iowa State Uni- versity, the Distinguished Fiji Award, and an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Creighton University. The brothers are excited about Brother McCormick’s participation in our chapter’s upcoming silver anniver- sary. Mu Tau has planned a host of events to celebrate the success of Mu Tau over the past quarter-century. Continuing the tradition, the chapter will be hosting the Pig Dinner golf tournament at a time and place to be announced in the next issue of The Mu Tau Claw. The chapter has set a goal for all 20 founding fathers of the Memphis chapter to be in attendance. We invite all graduates of Phi Gamma Delta to participate in this special day, and encourage you to mark your calendars for a memorable weekend. \r\nFrom the president The brothers at 3614 Midland Avenue enjoyed a peace- ful summer that focused on rushing men that are de- serving of the benefits of brotherhood in Phi Gamma Delta. We have taken great measure to insure quality in men whom we are taking. Likewise, we are focusing heavily on pledge retention during this semester. If you see a man wearing a white star on his chest, please welcome him into our midst. The fall semester holds many opportunities for the men of Mu Tau to continue in their pursuit of excel- lence. The major philanthropic event for the semester is our first ever Phi Gam’s Greeks and Goblins, an event for the entire Greek community to serve a local elemen- tary school on Halloween. While in costume, we will provide candy and a “Stay in School” message. The event is being cosponsored by the Interfraternity Coun- cil and Public Safety. The chapter is also focusing on graduate relations. November 16 will kick off the beginning of our 25th year as a chapter at the University of Memphis. We have devoted the entire year to “rushing” our graduate broth- ers. Our graduate chair, Mark Harris, has spent count- less hours with the graduate committee to ensure the success of our silver anniversary. Our constant contact with you is vital. If you are aware of graduate brothers who are not receiving com- munication from the chapter; please-let 1s-know.— I look forward toa great year. Feel free to call me at (901) 495-0522 with any suggestions for the chapter. —David Williams ‘97 Memphis; Tennessee 38111 : : Board of Chapter : liams ‘97 Advisors : Michael Keith ‘89 Michael Egner ‘98 ‘Ted Showalter “91 ae Joey Boyd ’95 », Recording Secretary Chris White ‘96 2 Shane Russell 98 House Corporation Bobby Svoboda ‘78 John Mundinger (LSU) ‘78. Alan Crone.‘87, ‘90 Richard Groff '91,’95 Graduate Chairman/ Editor: Mark Harris ‘97 | Design and Layout holson Gro! -~has identified for improvement.— Graduate leadership changes The beginning of the fall semester has been a busy one for graduates who donate time and counsel to the fra- ternity. The roles of the Purple Legionnaire, Faculty Advisor, Board of Chapter Advisors, and House Cor- poration have all undergone major changes. The chapter is pleased to announce the appoint- ment of Jim Guess (Memphis ‘89, 92) as its new Purple Legionnaire. Brother Guess recently relocated back to Memphis from the frozen tundra of Michigan. Work- ing as a financial analyst at AutoZone, Jim is sharing his work experience to help guide the brothers in their pursuit of excellence. With the role of Faculty Advisor dormant, it was time for the chapter to find an active link to the Univer- sity. After careful consideration, the brothers invited Danny Felker, Vice President of Operations for the Uni- versity of Memphis, to serve in this position designed to assist in negotiating University protocol and promot- ing academic achievement. It has been years since the chapter has benefitted from the advice and support of a functioning Board of Chapter Advisors. This past August, four graduates stepped up the plate to resurrect the BCA. Led by Michael Keith ‘89, as BCA Chairman, brothers Ted Showalter ‘91, Joey Boyd “95, and Chris White '96, are keying their efforts on five focus areas that the chapter Please see “Changes” on page 4 PL Corner It is both a privilege and an honor to serve my chapter as Purple Legionnaire. Believing that Phi Gamma Delta “Is not for College days alone,” I intend to do all that I can to ensure that the Fijis at Memphis today have a fraternity experience as positive and developmental as my own. The Fijis have done a super job on campus, in the community, and in the classroom. Their success is re- lated to the importance they place on the values of Phi Gamma Delta: Friendship, Knowledge, Service, Moral- ity, and Excellence. Last year the Phi Gams raised over $2,000 for the American Cancer Society in their “Tour De Fiji” race. Also, last semester 21 Brothers, over half the chapter at that time, earned a 3.0 or better. Press On! The Fijis are areal presence on campus. In our number, you will find the IFC President, an IFC Officer, an SGA Senator, and the Secretary of Campus Affairs. As a graduate brother, I can assure you that these men are top quality, and represent what I believe to be the finest on campus. You can expect great things from the brothers at Mu Tau. Their blood runneth purple! Perge! —Jim Guess (Memphis ‘89, ‘92) \r\nBrothers enjoy Homecoming "96 events The brothers of Mu Tau celebrated Homecoming '96 with its highest turnout of graduates in recent memory. Festivities began the morning of October 5 with a graduate golf scramble at Stonebridge Golf Course in Cordova. Twenty gradu- ate brothers playing the links made this year’s tournament the most-attended in the chapter’s history. The winning team, shooting six under par with only three players, consisted of Paul Woods 93, Trip Leonard ’97, and Mike Knipple ’95. Later that afternoon, graduates were treated to a complimentary bus ride to the tailgate party at Tobey Park. Special thanks to Richie Keith ’85, Russell Carter ’91, Owen Keith ’95, and Tim Keirnon ’95 for their generous donations toward the graduates’ transportation. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and bratwurst were served up hot off the grill by the Alpha Xi pledge class to our hungry fans eager for a Memphis victory over Cincinnati. The Tigers rose to the occasion, winning a nail-biter in the final minute of the game with a field goal. Congratulations to the “Rip-roaring” Tigers for bringing home the win, 18-16, over the Bearcats. Our Fiji brethren, likewise, were winners in homecoming competition. Phi Gamma Delta, paired with the sisters of Sigma Kappa, placed second overall with strong showings in the banner and yard display competitions. The Mu Tau chapter appreciates all brothers who attended this year’s home- coming events and hope to see everyone back next fall for even more fun and excitement. —Mark Harris '97 One big lawn ornament Star Wars was the theme of the University of Memphis’ Homecoming ’96. The brothers of Phi Gam teamed up with the sisters of Sigma Kappa this year to build this lawn display, which was featured in the October 4 issue of the Daily Helmsman. The Tigers struck back with a last-minute field goal to win the game over the Cincinnati Bearcats, 18-16. Special thanks to the following graduate — brothers for participat- ing in the graduate golf scramble. Randy Almand ’87 Ed Byrne ’96 Russell Carter ’91 Shawn Cochran ‘96 Ken Dixon ’75 Shawn Drake ‘90 Brian Ellis ’96 Ray Goldbeck ’95 Jim Guess '89, ’92 Owen Keith ’95 Mike Knipple ’95 Dave Kraehmer ’94 Trip Leonard ‘93 Al Mangum ‘94 Roy Murrell ‘94 Craig Napier ‘94 Sid Taylor ’78 Chris White '96 ~ Paul White ‘88 Paul Woods ’93 Missing composite search The chapter is missing copies of composite pic- tures from the years 1976-1983, 1986, and 1990. If anyone is inter- ested in lending or do- nating their copy of a composite, please con- tact Brother Mark Harris at (901) 458-3526. These pictures are an impor- tant part in maintaining an accurate archive of our chapter’s history. \r\nChanges continued from page 2 After several false starts over the past five years, the House Corporation has re- dedicated its efforts to improving the chapter’s housing situation. Consisting of Bobby Svoboda ’78, Alan Crone ‘87, '90, Ri- chard Groff ‘91, ‘95, and John Mundinger (LSU) '78, the House Corp. is developing a phased plan to purchase and refurbish 3614 Midland to meet the chapter's present and future functional needs. Specifics will be an- nounced ina future issue of the Mu Tau Clave. Rotation of leadership within the gradu- ate ranks is important in keeping ideas fresh and perspectives in focus. The brothers in- : ye 2 Shoat th es ey, Ee vite all graduates interested in lending their assistance to contact Mark Harris, Gradu- Restoring the Star and Diamond ate Chairman. Thanks to the above-named —_Bfforts are underway by the House Corporation to begin a brothers for proving that PhiGamma Delta phased plan to purchase and renovate the chapter house at is not for college days alone. 3614 Midland Avenue. (Photo circa early 1980s) —Richard Groff (Memphis ‘91, '95) a3 The brothers Keith Homecoming wasn’t just an alumni reunion for these fraternity brothers, it was also a family reunion. Pictured from left are Michael ’89, Owen ’95, and Richie ‘85 Keith, all graduates of the University of Memphis as well as Phi Gamma Deltas. All three held office in the chapter during their undergraduate years. Richie resides in Austin, Texas, and Michael and Owen are Memphis residents. Michael continues to serve the chapter as chairman of the newly formed Board of Chapter Advisors, a group of four Mu Tau grads. Photo by Andrew Williams ‘98. \r\nWhere are they now... Bill Holt (Memphis, ’73) is the owner of Holt Tire on Mendenhall Road in East 5 Memphis. The business is undergoing a $50,000 renovation that is to be com- pleted this fall and featured in The Com- mercial Appeal and Memphis Business Jour- nal. Bill and the former Joanne Byrd, his wife of 20 years, have a 16-year-old daughter, Connie, who will be attending the University of Memphis after high school. Brother Holt jokingly added that she won’t be allowed in any fraternity houses. Bill is a founding fa- ther of the Mu Tau chapter and his most memorable moment in the chapter was his initiation. Brothers from International Headquarters came down to initiate the 20 founding fathers and it was a very moving experi- ence for him. Bill recently got his first hole-in-one at Galloway Golf Course. Brother Holt would like to hear from Barry Snyder. Bobby Svoboda (Memphis ’78) was a member of the Eta pledge class in the fall of 1975. As an undergradu- ate brother, he served as treasurer for three years. He graduated with a BBA in accounting and has been a partner with the Thompson Group Pic for the past five years. He and his wife, the former Marty Kelly, have two children, Andrew, 10, and Erin, 7. When not work- ing, Bobby loves to spend time with his family. He coaches soccer, basketball, and baseball, and is a mem- ber of the Holy Rosary men’s club. He is also an active Tiger supporter as a member of the Highland Hundred club. Bobby most memorable moment of his days in the chapter was the second place finish to Lambda Chi Alpha in All-Sing. Bobby said, “We practiced for six nights a week for two months and we deserved the vic- tory.” Brother Svoboda would love to know if anyone has a recording of the competition. He’d like to get in touch with his big brother, Stan Warren, and pledge brother Dave Johns. Danny Schuler (Memphis ‘86, '95) was a member of the Upsilon pledge class Fall, 1983. As a maintenance engineer for Arcadia Corporation, a company that makes ammonia and fertilizer, he an- q swers technical questions about the ma- chinery used to make the products and makes sure that equipment runs properly. Danny re- ceived his master’s degree in mechanical engineering in May 1995. He likes to spend his free time with his girlfriend, Polly Ballentine, sailing on his 16-foot Hobie Cat. His most memorable moment in the fraternity was initiation and he would like to catch up with Gus Gutierrez. He also remembers all of the Fiji Islands, well sort of... = —Kevin Darety '98, Lance Wiedower ‘98 Alan Crone (Memphis ‘87, ’90), a mem- ber of the Upsilon pledge class, served as president of the Mu Tau chapter in 1985. Alan was an active member of the Student Government Association and served as Governor of the Tennessee In- tercollegiate State Legislature. He graduated with a BA in political science, and a JD from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Alan and his wife, the former Allison Stoddard, have a 10-month- old son, James. Crone is a partner in the firm Wilder, Crone, Johnston, Mason, and Goodwin, pic. He has been active with the Shelby County Republican Steering Committee and worked for Governor Don Sundquist. The moment Alan remembers most from his under- graduate days was initiation day with his pledge broth- ers. Several brothers have asked for a reprise of Crone’s “Blues Brothers” routine with Beau Hardison (Mem- phis ’87) at next spring’s Pig Dinner. Alan would like to get in touch with Randy Duke. Mike Keith (Memphis ’89), pledged with the Alpha Alpha pledge class in the fall of 1985. After graduating in 1989 witha BBA in finance, Mike went to work as an insurance adjuster for GAB Robinson. In the past seven years, Mike has been relocated to Meridian, Miss.; Jackson, Miss.; Orlando, Fla.; and finally returned to Memphis last May, where he purchased his first home. Mike con- tinues to hunt and fish avidly through the various sea- sons with Brothers Vince Brocato (Memphis ’89) and Bobby Farris (Memphis ’89). Mike’s most memorable moments as an undergrad were attending Tiger foot- ball games and the parties that ensued thereafter. Mike would like to hear from Terry Carter. Finding Fijis We are continually updating addresses for graduates, but have lost touch with the following grads: Larry T. Cunningham; Darrell J. Misgen, II; Stephen P. Parish; Wade F. Tucker; David H. Fink; Robert S. Jones, III; Ronald L. Garcy; Nicholas K. Ratkai; Dan W. Swensen; Michael K. Richey; Dillon A. Scruggs, III; Donald B. Bland; Jeffrey D. Parrish; Charles L. Sinquefield; C. Michael Jones; Dennis K. Mitchell; Barry P. Pinlac; Scott W. Thompson; Kenny A. Creed; Michael T. Whitney; Richard S. Lee; James E. Barnett, II; Mare T. Barclay; Charles M. White; and Jason G. Ward. If you know the whereabouts of these brothers or you've recently moved, please call Mark Harris at (901) 458-3526. Trying to get in touch with a brother but can’t find his number? Brother Harris is happy to assist! \r\nay, Wimbleton 6p ts) mma Delta house, 361 sraduate Holiday Tea Saturday, December 21 imbleton S| lex, 6161 Shelby Oaks Drive, 1 to 4 ee and thei pea beseieniente others are i The Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta Mu Tau Chapter 28 University of Memphis : 3614 Midland Avenue Memphis, Tennessee 38111 ul Postmaster: Address correction requested