Thrill Hill and the rocket in Betty Virginia Park: Sweet Tees celebrate Shreveport

Sweet Tees is a merch idea that has been brewing in the minds of Kathy May Ross and daughter Lauren Ross for several years. They've begun their "gourmet T shirt" enterprise with a couple of cultural grabs that are wittily local: Thrill Hill and Betty Virginia Park, as in the lost rocket structure.

With designers Paul McCallister and Todd Miller at Popular Creative they have created a subtle series of shirts. Says Lauren, "These tee shirts are American Apparel vintage feel fitted tees. The designs pay homage to past and current Shreveport landmarks." They are aimed at the upscale market, priced at $28 - 32. Adds Ross, "Sweet Tees are locally designed and printed here in our area. We pride ourselves in using all local vendors to create and promote these shirts."

"These shirts tap into and embody the recent surge of pride in Shreveport's history and optimism for its future. I could not be a bigger fan of Sweet Tees and what it says about the fresh energy and changing winds in Shreveport-Bossier," says Thomas Avallone.

A recent customer responded, "My grandfather sold the rocket to Betty Virginia in the 60s during the "space age". We always thought that was the coolest thing to play on, and now I can think back and remember my grandfather every time I put this shirt on, which is priceless to me! Thanks sweet tee Shreveport for such a special memory!!"

Ross says that orders can be placed at sweetteesport@gmail.com. Adds Ross, "We deliver to home or office. We also ship in and out of state to anyone needing a piece of Shreve!" See them face to face at the South Highlands Summer Market, Fri, June 6, 5 pm, at Mall St Vincent.