Ed’s Word: Number: 3 October 29, 2009
Ed’s Word: Number: 3 October 29, 2009
1. The National Hall of Fame - Lifetime Service - Illinois Chapter was once again a huge success. There were about 190 people in attendance, including the recipients and their guests. All of the Awardees spoke and gave a good account of themselves.
2. Kudos to George Dyche as he headed the committees involved with the Banquet. He was ably aided by Larry Gassen and Mike Manahan. Mike did all of the leg work in Bloomington. Through their efforts and a few others, everything went very smoothly. George also put together a video presentation of previous winners of this award and Randy Konstans did the showing of fit.
3. The Awardees, in case you missed the names before, were: Medal of Courage to Greg Gardner of Springfield SE ; Outstanding Americans: Admiral Richard Mies of Lane Tech and Dr. Richard Manahan of Bloomington; Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Vern “Art” Adams; of Normal; Ray Cummings of Tolona; Renny Garshelis of Charleston; Ed Luety of Melrose Park; Pat O’Connor of Glasford and Robert Strange of Lawrenceville. Pat could not attend, but two of his sons stepped in for him. Pat is recovering from an illness at home.
4. We had some noteable absentees this year - all recovering from some medical difficulties: Ken Kraft, who has chaired this event for years has been hospitalized; Jim Gardner, recovering at home; as is Sam Samorian and Gene Swierczewski. Our prayers are extended to this group for a fast recovery. Anyone need their address - contact me.
5. Sandy Stevens did a great job emceeing this event - brought a little color to this event as only a woman can do. Thank you Sandy.
6. Bob Strange and Red Schmitt were both in the State Tournament at the same time in 1939 - About the only time that has happened at this event at least that far back.
7. Walter Sherman was in Iowa the weekend of the 17th, being inducted into the University of Northern Iowa Hall of Fame as a member of the National Champion 1950 Team. Congratulations to Walter. Sandy Stevens also emceed that program, which had an overflowing crowd.
8. Dennis Hastert was also in Iowa over the 17th, as he was honored by the Dan Gable Wrestling Museum with Sport of Lincoln Award.
9, Some sad news to report: Vikki Zimmerman, wife of Mike who is the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals has passed away. Mike is the son of Hall of Famer Bill Zimmer, formerly of Lockport.
10, Results of the Sunkist Tournamnent: Greco: 132 - lst - Joe Betterman; 3rd - Ellis Coleman; 6th =- Chad Vandiver; 145 - lst - Jacob Curby; 163 - 4th - Jonathan Drendel; 185 - 4th - Nathan Patrick; 264 - 2nd - Peter Kowolczak. Women: 105 - 6th - Caitlyn Chase.
Coaches and Officials - Be sure to check and attend the rules clinics.
Season finally starts on the 9th - let the festivities begin.
