A Night at the Races, Maywood Park

By Ken Bounds

 Our host Ron Blum knocked it out of the park again with his always popular Night at the Races event, held this year on April 1 at Maywood Park in Melrose Park.  A nice crowd of 46 V-8ers, family, and friends was not fooled by the date and had a great time.  With the free valet parking included, the fun began at 6:30 with a super buffet, followed by an exciting evening of friendly wagering on the trotters. 

As usual, there were several very special treats during the evening.  The second race of the night was named for the Northern Illinois Regional Group.  As the winning horse Charlie Russell, driven by Marcus Miller pulled into victory circle, all the guys in our group posed for a photo.  A real thrill occurred when two of our newer members, Este Scheve and Dennis Bohannon, had the opportunity to ride in the starter car.  They loved the experience!  An incredible downpour during a couple of the races didn’t dampen the fun.

All participants had the opportunity to sign up for a raffle for dinner for two at the racetrack.  Both Dan Pudelek and Joe Dispensa were lucky winners.  As the race card went into the night, we started saying our goodbyes.  Some went home richer, some poorer, but no one left hungry and all had a great time.  We thank Ron Blum for another wonderful outing. 

Participants included our hosts Ron & Arlene Blum, President and First Lady Dan & Diane Pudelek, Ben & Ginny Ashley with guests Roger & Elise, Dennis & Michelle Bohanan, Ken & Carolyn Bounds, Don & Elaine Braun with guests Stan Gaynor and Pam Sipp, Joe & Marie Dispensa, Paul Jensen, John Judge, Joe & Nell Kozmic, Frank Madrigali, Roger & Betty Meness with their daughter Michelle, John & Este Scheve, Joe & Delice Serritella, Stan & Joanne Stack, Len & Irene Vineyard with son Jeff and his wife Jennifer, Alan & Lois Wall, and George & Dawn Zulas, with guests Tom Zulas & Brenda Cielo, Paula & Carl Palmisano, and Kathy & Mike Knox.