Annual Pizza Meeting

By Ken Bounds

On March 15, 44 members, family, and friends gathered to celebrate a long-time tradition in the Northern Illinois Regional Group - the annual pizza meeting.  For the second year in a row, Ron & Arlene Blum hosted the festivities at Lou Malnati’s Pizza in Buffalo Grove.  The threat of severe storms may have held down the attendance a bit, but most of the bad weather missed us and we only had a few sprinkles on the way home.

Most attending came early and spent time enjoying each other’s company and a cool beverage.  Tom O’Donnell and VP Frank Madrigali were busy doing a super job selling 50-50 raffle tickets.  Just before the pizza was served President Scott Gilday, assisted by his daughter Cienna, ran a very short business meeting.  Scott briefly discussed the Turners Luncheon and upcoming events.  Signup sheets were passed around for the upcoming Beller Museum Tour and the Eggs & Eights Breakfast.  Scott introduced new member Mike Freund who joined our group at the meeting.  Mike said a few words about his classic car collection - see more information on page 5.

The main event was the pizza.  When it arrived right on time, the Malnati’s staff did a great job of delivering everyone’s selection to them at their tables.  This worked fine for the first two or three helpings, then they couldn’t hold us back and we all helped ourselves.  Just kidding - the severs did a great job and everyone enjoyed all they could eat and drink.

We were happy to see several of our newest members in attendance.  In addition to Mike Freund, we were joined by Allen Bryant and Jay Hinshaw, who was attending his first club event.  It was also nice to see Frank Koeder who looked like he was doing well after recent surgery on his jaw.  As the evening was nearing an end, Cienna drew the winning 50-50 ticket.  “Lucky Frank” Koeder pocketed $52 and the club did the same.  The continuing threat of inclement weather prompted most members to leave a little bit early.  Regardless, everyone seemed to have a good time and did not leave hungry.

Those participating were our hosts Ron & Arelene Blum along with family and friends, Rich Anderson, Ken & Carolyn Bounds, Allen Bryant, Tom Buscaglia, Gladys Duzell, Terry & Kitty Freihage, Mike Freund, Scott Gilday with daughter Cienna, Jay Hinshaw, John Judge, Frank Koeder, George Kubik, James & Kathy Larson, Paul Levine, Paul Lunecki, Frank & Phyllis Madrigali with guests, Tom O’Donnell, Gary Osborne, Dan & Diane Pudelek, John & Este Scheve, Russ Shmerl, John & Barb Slobodnik, Stan & JoAnne Stack, Ron Steck, and George & Dawn Zulas with son George.