Host Joe Fielden introduces state Sen. Becky Duncan Massey during a fundraiser at his home last Tuesday.
It’s always a pleasant surprise when a political event you expected to be routine and dull turns into a party! That’s what happened last week when we planned to just drop by a fundraiser for the re-election campaign of our friend, state Sen. Becky Duncan Massey.
Our thought was that we would just run in and say hello — we’d already sent in a check — and then be on our way to dinner. But, to our surprise, we ended up staying 1-1/2 hours. The time flew by as we enjoyed seeing so many chums and tasting delicious passed appetizers from By the Tracks Catering. We then left and went to the former Bistro by the Tracks on Central, which today, by the way, officially changed its name to The Marlowe on Central.
Massey’s legislative colleagues came from across the state to attend. And the Duncan family was well-represented. In addition to her sweet husband, Morton, other family members were her daughter, Courtney Massey Kolhhepp; sister, Beverly Gleason; brother, former U.S. Congressman Jimmy Duncan; his wife, Vickie; and his son; Zane.
The back yard of the lovely home of Ruth and Joe Fielden on Cherokee Boulevard provided a perfect setting. It formerly was owned by the University of Tennessee and used as the residence for the school’s presidents.
From left, Dr. Barry Winston, state Sen. Richard Briggs, and former Knoxville mayor and U.S. ambassador to Poland, Victor Ashe.
Basketball player Chris Lofton, left, and Zane Duncan.
Dana and Kelly Headden.
From left, Vickie Duncan, Susan Williams, and state Rep. Elaine Davis.
The senator’s daughter, Courtney Massey Kohlkepp, with Alan Carmichael.
Tim and Amy Williams.
Patriotic centerpieces.
Stephen Hackney and Patricia Bible with state Rep. Dave Wright, at right.
Bob and Barbara Griffitts.
Ham biscuits were awesome.
Tom and Diane Ballard.
Laurie Dover, left, and our hostess, Ruth Fielden.
Great mingling time.
There were roast beef biscuits, too!
From left, Rick Dover, Dick Williams, and Kirk Huddleston.
Robin and Randy Gibson.
Ruth Fielden, center, with J.R. and Ruth Ann Henry.
Joe Fielden, left, with Jimmy and Cindy Alexander.
Doc Claussen, left, and Ron Watkins.
My favorite appetizers were the pimento cheese and tomato jam toast points.
Sen. Becky Massey and host Joe Fielden in front. In back, From left, state Rep. Dave Wright, Sen. Adam Lowe, Sen. Richard Briggs, Sen. Jack Johnson, Sen. Dawn White, former Congressman Jimmy Duncan, Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Transportation Butch Eley, and Sen. Ed Jackson. Not pictured: Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, who had to leave early.
An attentive crowd.
Kirk Huddleston, left, and Richard Maples.
Barbara Kelly, left, and Susan Long.
Anthony Edwards, Sr., and Sen. Becky Massey.
Alan Carmichael, left, and Larry Leibowitz,
A delicious and unusual appetizer: squash and artichoke toasts. They were a little spicy — and fabulous!
From left, Victor Ashe, Jimmy Matlock, and John Sheridan.
This sign is now in the window of our downtown condo. Early voting is happening now! Election day is Aug. 1.
I have known Becky for a long time. She is a good, kind and sincere person.
When she was at UT I would tell her she is just like her Daddy, a well respected person. I am proud and not surprised to see her succeed
Kathy: I could not agree with you more! She is doing a great job for us in Nashville.