What: Jeff Bagwell’s 50th birthday
Where: Potente
The scoop: Jeff Bagwell has achieved many a milestone as a member of the Houston Astros. But the Hall of Fame power hitter was completley caught by surprise when he recently reached a particular milestone: his 50th birthday. The mighty slugger celebrated his big 5-0 at Potente, Astros owner Jim Crane’s restaurant. Bagwell’s wife, Rachel, surprised the baseball legend with a "Man in Black"-themed party. The boisterous brunch was packed with friends, family, Houston sports legends — and even included a cameo by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.
The Bagwells pulled out all the stops to toast the beloved athlete including a special brunch menu, premiere wines and champagne, and gorgeous décor provided by Darlene's Flowers. The scene included a spectacular arrangement of red carnations shaped in the number "50" to mark the special day.
Guests packed the Potente bar area with an array of appetizers while enjoying the sounds of DJ Senega and jumping in the custom-designed photo-booth. Friends made their special toasts and were joined by retired newscaster Dave Ward. Many in the group were moved to tears when Bagwell’s daughter, Bryce, read a special tribute from Robert Bagwell, Jeff’s father, who was unable to attend.
The day ended with a spectacular cake presentation. The birthday masterpiece was created by Three Brothers Bakery and was a replica of the Hall of Fame plaque awarded to Bagwell. It read, "Hall of Fame Father, Husband and Friend." Mayor Turner then presented Bagwell with City of Houston proclamation announcing "Jeff Bagwell Day."
Who: The many friends and family in attendance included Mary and Tony Gracely, Craig and Patti Biggio, Austria and Moises Alou, Larry Dierker, Gary Petersen, Melissa and Michael Mithoff with daughter Mia, Debbie and Rudy Festari with sons Elton and Valentino, Laura and Dave Ward, Tyson and Tena Faust, Brenda and Patrick Hicks, Tena and Tyson Faust, Stephanie and Danny Mushin and the Bagwell children: Lauren, Bryce, Blake, Raquel, and Maxwell — and many more.
Bryce Bagwell, Jeff Bagwell, Blake Bagwell, Rachel Bagwell, Raquel Bagwell, Lauren Bagwell, and Maxwell Bagwell.
