Music and memories just go together. This Jim Croce song prompts Paul and Helen Parmley to reminisce about their early years as members of Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas. In the early 1970s, the couple danced (and often twisted) their Friday nights away to a variety of rock ’n’ roll and big band sounds at club dances.

Recently, the Parmleys were among about 100 members — with 20 years or more in membership tenure — who gathered one Sunday afternoon to renew friendships and trade stories about yesteryears at ClubCorp’s first country club. They brought old newsletters, almost-forgotten photos, and multiple generations to share in the festivities.

Bob and Ruth Linker contributed now-yellowed and dog-eared programs of the LPGA’s Civitan tournament that was played on the Champs course throughout the ’70s. They especially liked getting to know the players, who stayed in members’ homes during the event. Susie McAllister was the regular houseguest of the Linkers. The Civitan was a "must" tour stop for all the great names — Jan Stephenson, Laura Baugh, Kathy Whitworth, JoAnne Carner, and more.

Competitive golf games of their own also bonded the members over the years. The hotly contested 1970 "Guys & Dolls" trophy was on display, along with some photos of victors. The golf tournament continues today, albeit on-course attire definitely has changed.

Bill Stewart, now a member of the Brookhaven Board of Governors, recalled with a laugh that he wasn’t sure he could afford the $22 per month dues back in the mid ’60s. And Bo and Helen Dillard’s reminders of their fondest family activities at the club surrounded them: five offspring, 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one son-in-law.

As a microphone passed from table to table and various funny and poignant memories were shared that Sunday afternoon, there was a constant. While some recollections had faded, relationships had remained strong. Just like a tune you can’t forget.

Enjoy the holiday season,

Patricia Baldwin
Editor in Chief