Hall of Fame

Don Carson opened Don & Charlie’s Restaurant in Scottsdale in 1981 and soon after became a partner in Lettuce Entertain You with Rich Melman. Don & Charlie’s was an iconic Cactus League gathering place, serving ribs and steaks to MLB executives, managers, players, newspaper writers and broadcasters during spring training. The restaurant’s walls were decorated by priceless sports memorabilia – and each item had a personal story attached. Carson operated the eatery for 38 years until closing it in April 2019. Carson, who graduated from Scottsdale High School in 1963, also was a member of the Scottsdale Charros, serving as Baseball Chairman and Patron.