Minting a Legend

Judy Hibbert Retirement Party

4 p.m., Wednesday, May 14

The Mint Cocktails

3540 E. Grant Road

881-9169;

facebook.com/TheMintCocktails

The Mint is one of Tucson's most venerable bars, having served drinks to thirsty Tucsonans since 1934.

And while the bar has moved around a few times, going from downtown to midtown to its current location on Grant Road, other things have stayed the same over the years. One of the Mint's fixtures, former owner and longtime manager Judy Hibbert, is finally calling it quits after more than 50 years at the bar.

"We're going to send her off and give her a really nice tribute," said Ricardo Garcia, one of the Mint's co-owners, who continued to employ Hibbert after purchasing the bar two years ago. "Through the years she's created a long list of friends, and we wanted to give her a day to celebrate with them."

Wednesday's festivities start with Hibbert's favorite local band, Michael P., performing from 4 to 6 p.m. That will be followed by a dinner catered by nearby Las Margaritas restaurant. When dinner is done, an Elvis impersonator will take the stage.

"Elvis is her favorite singer," Garcia said.

To commemorate the event, The Mint will unveil a signature cocktail made in Hibbert's honor. Known as the "Sweet Judy," the drink will feature "some kind of sexy alcohol," Garcia said, and will typify everything Hibbert is known for.

"She is just the sweetest and snappiest and wittiest person you'll ever meet," Garcia said.

Hibbert's retirement party will also mark the second anniversary of the bar's purchase by Garcia and Chris Smith, and drink specials will be featured from when the bar opens at 10 a.m. until last call.