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United States Air Force AcademyNorthern Illinois Parents Club |
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For pictures and synopsis of the activities of the NIPC's events, please click on any or all of the below listed events. If you attended, enjoy the memories, if you missed it we wish you were there but enjoy and if you are considering joining, you'll get an accurate picture of what you can expect. 2010:
CLASS OF 2014 APPOINTEE RECEPTION / DINNER
Fifteen Appointees for the Class of 2014 and their families attended the June 6 Appointee Banquet at Monty's in Bensenville. The social hour started at 5pm and the program at 6pm. As usual there were enough NIPC families there to help support the ALO's in answering questions and supporting the Appointees and their families. The ALO's did a great job of providing the venue and program that gave those in attendance information needed prior to in-processing in 3 weeks.
The we were served a dinner of roasted chicken, beef and pasta, roasted potatoes with cheese cake as dessert. It was all very good and the wait-staff made sure that when a plate was empty the filled it again.
After the Knowledge Bowl the NIPC Grads and Cadet came up to answer questions. There were many questions during and after the function. Erin, Kyle and Martinus all did an excellent job in making sure questions were answered during and after the Q & A time. They know how important it is to help the Appointees prepare.
Dave Izzo, father of 2009 USAFA grad David Izzo, is now a civilian ALO. Here he is talking with Grace Kim, of Naperville, IL. Guessing he is telling her about the great Cadet Squadron 34.
Enjoy more pictures of the evening.
Northern Illinois Parent’s Club “Firstie” Salute and Spring Meeting
It was an absolutely beautiful day for the NIPC to have its annual Firstie Salute and Spring Meeting. Once again it was held at the Itasca Country Club. There are several advantages to having it here, the main being the competence and cooperation of the staff management of ICC. They make sure everything is ready. The tables were set so nicely, with the theme being red, white and blue. The center pieces were Red, the colors of the Class of 2010.
After the delicious brunch, we reconvened the Annual meeting from March. We covered the Annual Meeting Agenda, closed the meeting and then covered the Spring Meeting Agenda. As you can tell, there were several large issues to cover; including some Amendments to the By-laws and the election of Officers for 2010-2011. After presentation and discussion, Amendments 1, 3-5 were approved unanimously by the 21 member units in attendance. Per the By-Laws a quorum of 20%, or 13 members, based on 63 member families. We had 33% participation which was fantastic. Thank you!!! By passing the Amendments, the Board will now be able to effectively carry out its requirement of meeting 4 times a year by restoring the Board to 5 members, and excluding the class reps. We also made a change that allowed Board meetings to be conducted using normal business practices, including conference calls. Finally, the notice requirements were changed to include the use of email, phone calls or postal mail. That will greatly enhance the ease at which club business can be conducted. As Presidents, the Primm's have had a hard time over the last 18 months conducting Board meetings due to the inclusion of the class reps. The class reps were asked and not one of them desired to be included in the definition of Board.
Jodie Ells mentioned during her Class of 2011 update that she needed someone to take over the Cookbook sales. When she sat down Wanda Glitz (C3C Caitlin) told her she'd take the 2 boxes. Excellent and Jodie was so happy that someone volunteered so quickly. Thank you Wanda.
Then we moved onto the slate of Officers of 2010-2011 as discussed in the March-April newsletter. We are proud to present the unanimously elected officers:
Do you see something exciting here? The leadership team of the NIPC shows the enthusiasm and commitment of the new members. It didn't take much for them to say yes and with the years of experience they will have, the training of the Class of 2014 and beyond looks great. On June 1, 2010 their terms begin and let's all commit to support and encourage them.
After the meetings,
we moved onto the highlight; the Firstie Salute. This is a most special
time and over the last 2 years we have encourage
It was an excellent time. The great thing is that when the program was over at 2pm, everyone did not rush for the door, they stood around, talked, shared concerns and were an encouragement. We did miss one of our 2010 parents. Mike & Austyne Bean could not be there as Austyne is battling cancer. Please keep Austyne in your prayers that Christopher's graduation this May 26 will be something that she enjoys.
For you please, more pictures are posted, but the main thing to remember from this meeting is this: Your attendance and participation is needed and vital. We have a short time to participate with active cadets; don't waste the time.
This is Joe Budzyn and Dave Izzo, whose sons were in the class of 2009. Dave is known comedian and is fun to be around. Joe has a sense of humor also, but when you see this look, it's the closest you can get to a lion spying its prey prior to, well, you know. Budzyn's son was married this year and when asked how marriage was treating him, Joe's response was "they are separated". That put a sudden stop to the conversation and some backtracking. When time sufficiently passed Joe looked at the person and said "yes, they are separated, he's in flight training in Tx. and she's at home". GOTCHA !!!!
Unlike last year's event which was somewhat in doubt due to 24 inches of snow, heavy fog and the rumor that the cadets were going to be restricted to base, it was sunny, fairly warm and Chicago arrived to Arnold Hall as planned !!
We started around 3:30pm for the 5:30pm event. The turnout of NIPC members to help was fantastic; we had 16 members there and that sure made things go smoothly!! With that many hands the event was very pleasant to put on.
We would like to thank our sponsors who have helped make this event what it is:
Class of 2014 Nominee Brunch
Traditionally the NIPC hosts an excellent Nominee Brunch. For years it has helped prepare Nominees what to expect once they become Appointees to USAFA. This year, quite frankly, because of the timing of Valentine's Day falling on the Sunday of our event, we didn't know what the turnout would be. We have to have it then so the Cadet speakers can use the 3 day Presidents Day holiday for travel. We had 173 people in attendance. Thinking about it, the Valentine's Day timing worked well as the class color for 2014 is red, so it was perfect !!! The breakdown was 43 individual Nominees and their families, 18 NIPC families and 8 ALO's. That provided great table coverage for discussion at the tables during lunch. Once again, we must recognize those who sacrificed time to plan and participate.
See all pictures here: Pics 1 & Pics 2
Prior to everyone arriving, many NIPC members arrived prior to 10:00am in order to set-up. With experienced members being involved it went very smoothly. The tables were set with red, white and blue and the center pieces were red, the color of the Class of 2014.
This is the registration crew. Mary Kashul along with Steve and Karen Schastiek did an outstanding job. We had walk-ins and some table changes, and they did their best to accommodate all. Thank you for an excellent job !! Even with all the work, Mary and Karen still have smiles on their faces as seen in the pic on the right.
This NIPC had a display area which included the flag with all the cadet squadron patches, a display board covering the basic cadets summer activities and many giveaway items. Later the ALO's also put some information on the table. On the right is Col. Bob Glitz with his daughter C3C Caitlyn Glitz talking with Tom Kashul and his son, nominee Joe Kashul. C3C Tom Kashul, Jr. did not make it back for the brunch.
Once again, our guest speaker was Marty Marcolongo, aka "The Webguy". Last year Marty arrived on Saturday and flew back Sunday afternoon, but there were so many questions that he got off to the airport a little later and he had to have a true "Chicago airport drive" by Tom Kashul to make the flight. This year, due to the 3-day weekend, he brought his lovely wife Renae and they had a leisurely Monday flight back to Denver. Marty, for the 2nd year, did a great job of letting the Nominees know what to expect. On the left is Marty with C2C Lanphear prior the event starting.
Here are some pictures of the crowd in the registration area and in the ballroom prior to the event.
After the Call to Order the Cadet color guard posted the flag and ALO Major Anna Adams led the Pledge to the American flag.
We then had the welcoming comments
by George & Sandy Primm. During this time we recognized a few special items.
First, nominee B
After the presentation, the Cadets came up to take about 15 minutes of questions. This is not the only time they took questions as they stayed after the event was officially ended for quite a while and continued answering questions. These pictures are during the Q&A and after. The cadets did an excellent job and the Nominees and their families appreciated it very much. From L to R are C2C Brendan Lanphear, C3C Caitlin Glitz, C4C Henry Krukowski, C4C Kyle Schory and C4C Alex Uransel. Here are some more pics of Q&A.
It was a wonderful event made special by the participation of the NIPC members and the attendance by the Nominees. There are many more pictures available. An effort was made to try to get a picture of everyone, so take time to look. Pics 1 & Pics 2 As a final note, for those Nominees who are accepted, please let the NIPC know. As of the brunch there were 5 nominees who had received their acceptance letters. Class of 2014 we wish you are best !!
2009:
The Northern Illinois Parents’ Clubs For the United States Service Academies
The 26th Annual Illinois All Academy Ball Sunday, December 27th
NOTE: The AsTimeGoesByPhotography Academy Ball pictures are now available on-line. There are many of USAFA cadets (They liked Erin Keane and the Glitzes, it seems!).
The weather cooperated some by not snowing the day of the Ball and that helped the 414 attendees arrive for a special evening. The host Parents Club, the Naval Academy, did an excellent job and the starting time was perfect for completing dinner and getting home with plenty of time. The NIPC had 40 members in attendance, down from last year's 80. We did our best to represent USAFA in a fine manner. For those who could not attend, we surely wish you had. The night is special and Presentation of the Colors by each of the Academies Cadets / Midshipman is something to see.
This year's attendance in the Hospitality Suite was very good. The suite was available at 3pm and from that time until 4:40pm we were busy with many NIPC members enjoying the food and company the suite provided. We even had some members of the Air National Guard Band of the Midwest - 366th Air Force Band join us. That was a pleasant surprise.
Around 4:3
Following the Presentation of the
Colors we had the Toast to the Colors, Toast to the President, Toast to the
active duty
After dinner the raffle prizes were awarded and the Ball started. It was a very enjoyable night. Next year it is the Air Force's turn to host the Ball. There will be much to do and many hands needed to get this done and represent USAFA in a manner befitting its reputation. Be prepared to get involved and help.
Now, here are some more pictures for you to enjoy.
Recap of the Nov. 7th General Membership Meeting & USAFA vs. Army Football game with the Army Parents Club !!
The smiles of Gina Izzo, Terri Lanphear, Julia Knight and Pat Budzyn (left to right) in this photo says it all. Those who attended the meeting had a very enjoyable time catching up and watching the Air Force win over Army, 35-7. We had 16 NIPC families in attendance for the membership meeting and the game. We wish more could have enjoyed the fellowship but you can in the future. What follows is a recap.
I
Here is the recap of what was covered.
After the meeting was closed the game was getting ready to start, the food was ordered and we started to enjoy the game and the eventual win by Air Force over Army by a score of 35-7. Go Air Force, Beat Army !!!
Pictures of the event for you to enjoy follow.
In these pictures are Elvin Harms, and his younger son Nate are sitting in their booth getting ready for their first NIPC function. Elvin and Sara are the parents C4C Sam, CS23. Nate is already setting his goal to follow his big brother in becoming a member of the Long Blue Line. Gotta love it !!
Terri Lanphear, the NIPC Queen of Raffles, getting ready to sell raffle tickets for an All Academy Ball ticket and an NIPC cookbook.
In the white shirt is Dave Izzo, parent of 2009 grad Dave Izzo. Dave is a
friendly and outgoing fellow and he has hi
It is always nice to have Alum come enjoy and contribute to the events. Here are Jim & Joan Keeney, enjoying a relaxing time. Their son, Maj. Ryan is a 1997 USAFA grad. On the right they are talking with Bob & Jodie Ells.
Class of 2012 parents Dan & Meeyoung Park (C3C Josh) and Tom Kashul (C3C Tom) enjoy the day. Dan is in full USAFA garb, which is a notable accomplishment. Dan is a West Point graduate and did not "walk the line". It was clear where he stood this day!!
What is Terri Lanphear watching? Potential raffle participants? Movements of the Army parents?
The long anticipated 2009 PW was pretty much perfect. It rained some on Sunday night, but for the other time we were there it was everything we could ask for; clear skies, cooler temps and the opportunity to spend time with our family and Cadets.
The pictures here were taken at the Parade on Friday morning and during the football game. Throughout the day NIPC members saw each other as we walked around the Hill. We waved and continued on our way as we hustled to the next class, dorm or car. We'll relax with each other at the next meeting !!
Prior to the parade there was fly-bys of Cadet trainer planes, the "Twotter" (the twin engine Otter jump plane), the Cadet glider team (landed on the parade field) and then the four F-15's. they F-15's hit afterburners over the field so that we could enjoy the stomach rumbling effects !!!
After the parade it was time to go to the Hill to attend classes with the Cadets. On the way up the Honor Ramp, around 11:30am, all the Cadets and uniformed personnel stopped and came to attention as the very large flag was taken down and a smaller flag was put up. It was a most awesome sight to see the Cadets stop, square-up and stand at attention for the 7 -10 minutes it took to complete the flag change. Pictures of the event are below.
The re
Prior to the games the NIPC members made their way from the tailgate parties and settled in for the game.
Then the pre-game activities started with the parachute jumpers, the F-15 fly-over and the Cadet squadron line-up on the field.
RECAP OF THE ANNUAL MEMBER PICNIC AUGUST 15th AT THE ILLINOIS AVIATION MUSEUM AT BOLINGBROOK
It was an absolutely perfect day; bright skies, stiff cooling breeze and 39 NIPC members joined the festivities of a picnic. This was the first time we used the facilities of the Illinois Aviation Museum at Bolingbrook. The Facilities Manager, Bill Anderson, is not only a very knowledgeable aviation history buff and accomplished pilot, he is a sincerely nice man. He stayed the entire time we were there and made sure anything we needed was available. He is truly a gentleman and was one of the reasons it turned out to be a very pleasant afternoon. We missed those who could not be there, but the Agenda for the General Meeting is available for you to read. As notified we had a Board Meeting prior to the General Meeting and actually the Agenda for the General Meeting basically covered the Board meeting. Both meetings went very smoothly and much was discussed and accomplished. Prior to the meeting an
email was sent out to all the NIPC members reminding them that even if
they previously thought they could not make
We also had our raffle where attendees brought items that were exchanged. Mark Hlavin brought two 10% discount coupons which could be used by United Mileage Plus members. We had a raffle, at $10 per ticket, for UAL members to try and win those. We raised $100 dollars. Thank you Mark. The great thing about the day was the mix of Alumni parents, 2013 and the other classes. The atmosphere was very nice and promoted a relaxed and congenial time. We are sorry that all couldn't attend, but several sent their regrets and said they had prior commitments. That is always nice to hear. We will have a Fall meeting and those details will be forthcoming on this website, so make sure you visit often to get the latest. It was the general consensus that the IL. Aviation Museum would be a great place to have future NIPC events and we'll look forward to maybe having the 2010 picnic there. If you have a plane, follow Mark Hlavin's example and fly into Clow International Airport.
John Doeseckle enjoying the cockpit of the Naval jet. The Doeseckle's brought their younger son who also enjoyed his time in the cockpit and watching dad pretend to fly the plane.
On the left is the Air Force jet used as a trainer for many years. On the right is the naval jet. Sitting in either one of the cockpits makes you appreciate the limited amount of room the pilots had to work with.
During the General Meeting we had the pleasure of one of the NIPC Cadets, Greg Eslinger, in attendance. Why wasn't he with the Wing at USAFA? He is spending the Fall semester at the Naval Academy. He left on Monday, August 17 so he had some extra time home. Here's Greg explaining the process and his looking forward to the experience.
This is Dan Park, C3C Joshua Park, enjoying the restored military jeep that is at the museum. A graduate of West Point, Dan said the jeep smelled exactly like the ones he drove for many years. Asked if it brought back memories he said yes, both good and bad.
JULY 12th DOOLIE DAY PICNIC
For the second year in a row we had an OUTSTANDING day for our annual Doolie Day Out, well for this year, Doolie Day In, picnic. As the parents of the Doolies knew, or at least those who were following the Forums on the Webguy, there is a quarantine of the Basics due to spreading illness, with some confirmed cases of the Swine Flu. Due to this the decision was made to keep the Basics on the Hill instead of letting them go off to their Sponsors homes.
The other item that we were unsure of was the impact that
USAFA's decision to move Doolie Day Out from
The people started arriving at 12:30pm at Bruce and Terri Lanphear's beautiful home. You could not ask for a more perfect place. You'll notice by the pictures that there is plenty of room to talk, walk, swim, relax, eat, etc. The parking is great and for those who took notice, Bruce has one of the most ultimate Man Garages one could want. Huge and well equipped.
Bruce and Terri were busy getting things ready when we
arrived. We mingled and talked for the first hour and began
After lunch we had a brief meeting covering the following:
Introduction of parents: Doolies first than the other parents.
Calendar of Events: Annual Picnic in August, Parents Weekend, Army Football game and All-Academy Ball.
Adopt-A-Doolie: We offered to team each First year parent with a current member for the purpose of having someone they could call with questions. That was perfectly timed as Joe Budzyn had just given some great advice during his time of introducing himself and Pat.
All Academy Ball: This year we need heavy participation in the All-Academy Ball as in 2010, the Air Force will be responsible for the event. We need to have someone on every committee. This is a very special event and all five service academies attend.
As soon as we are notified of the Parents Weekend Football tickets purchase so we sit in a group, that will be both emailed to everyone and posted on the website.
Budzyn News: During the picnic it was learned that 2008 USAFA Grad, Joseph Budzyn, Jr. got engaged over the July 4th weekend. His fiance is originally from the Springs, and that is where Joe met her. Joe & Pat are thrilled and they will be getting married in Mokena next summer.
Trivia Question: Which NIPC member grew up in Long Island, N.Y. and knew Joey Butafuco?
Near the end of the day a "heavy" aircraft flew over the Lanphears. Last year it was a group of F-15's. Very nice. maybe next year an F-22.
For your enjoyment here are some more pictures. Enjoy.
What do you think? The owner of this SUV has a Basic / Doolie at USAFA this summer? What's the hint? Ha.
These pictures were taken at 5:30pm. We were still going strong. That's nice.
Issac Yang had fun all day and misses his older brother John Yang, Jr. He had no idea that John was getting ready for Jack's valley, but is anxious to see his Doolie soon !! Appointee Dinner, June 7, 2009
During the reception those in attendance mingled and began answering questions and building relationships.
The registration table was voluntarily staffed by Deanne Prochnow. As soon as she arrived she saw the need and addressed it. Thank you very much.
During the reception time the ALO's were showing a video on USAFA. Provided quite a background for those attending. On the right is Theresa Murphy who spent time at the NIPC table assisting the Appointees and their families.
Lt. Col Richard Jenkins greeted everyone and congratulated the Appointees on their accomplishments to date. The appointees gathered for a group picture at the direction of Lt. Col. Jenkins.
Please browse the pictures:
Northern Illinois Parent’s Club “Firstie” Salute and Spring MeetingClass of 2009 Motto: "Our Time" Class Exemplar: Col. Hubert "Hub" Zemke
Firstie Parents reacting to the question, "What will you do at graduation?"
Beautiful day, perfect weather, great setting at the Park Ridge Country Club and celebrating with friends. A wonderful way to spend a Sunday.
As usual the purpose of the meeting was honoring the Firstie parents, but the benefits also include seeing friends and sharing the excitement and joy of their big day. This picture includes Gina Izzo (on the left), mother of Dave Izzo who will be graduating shortly. She is talking to Deanne Prochnow, whose son Christopher will be graduating in 2010.
Starting around 11:40am with a call to the begin and the Pledge to the American flag, Marty Knight gave the Invocation preceeding the brunch. There was plenty of time to partake of the wonderful food, relax with friends while eating and then a call for the start of the General Meeting at 12:35pm. The picture on the left is of the members entering the room where the brunch was served.
After brunch, we started the meeting which included the approval of the past meeting's minutes, Treasurers Report, Vice Presidents Report, Calendar of Events and a report on Chicago Nite. Then began the official Firstie Salute.
The Firstie Salute includes each graduating parent giving an update on what their Cadet will be doing, what their USAFA experience was like including all the ups & downs. This event should be a required event for all parents, so they know what to expect and more importantly, they know that the ups & downs are not unique to their child. What is happening now, has happened before and will in the future. Not all of the parents could make it, but each Cadet was included in the Program and had a slide for the Salute.
Dave and Gina Izzo talk about the adventures of their son David. They are so excited for David's many accomplishments, but cannot believe that 4 years went so fast; for them at least. David may have a different opinion !!
Tim & Barb McCormick, parents of Erin McCormick, share the joy of seeing their daughter pursue her love of music while at the AFA. She has proven herself faithful in her duty and was given command of the Drum & Bugle corp. Representing the NIPC well !!
Alan & Colleen Hansen discuss their Cadet Branden Lynam. It was Branden who helped some parents last summer while at the Doolie Picnic. Their Cadet was expressing some reservations about staying and when Branden heard about that he called the cadets at the AFA in charge of the squad during BCT and they followed-up with the Basic Cadet. That's the system working.
Jim & Theresa Murphy talk about Louis their son. Their oldest son graduated from USAFA a few years ago and discussed the difference between the two and their experience. When the video presentation was shown, the song Louis chose was perfect with what they had just talked about.
Gerry & Julie Phillips speak about their son Tim and the journey he took to the AFA. His experience of going to Wentworth Military in Liberty, Missouri has already helped an Illinois Cadet who did not get his appointment this year, but was asked to attend a prep school. After Gerry offer of personally visiting with the family and explaining the benefits, the family went from disappointment and "rejected" to now going to Wentworth. Excellent job. Thank you Gerry.
Steve Rodriguez, father of Tom shares some personal background. The family has been through much and the results are a fine graduating cadet.
Rana Teope speaking about her son Kaz. She explained that not only is Kaz there, but her younger son, Jan, who is a 4-degree, followed in big brothers footsteps.
Frank & Karen White talk about Trevor. They have had a unique experience. Both Frank & Karen are commercial pilots. Frank for Northwest (now Delta) and Karen is a "heavy" pilot for United. In fact, she just flew a 777 in from Hawaii that morning prior to attending the Firstie Salute.
Peter & Sandy Johnson talk about their daughter Laura. Their son Andrew graduated last year, so they will be going back in a few weeks. Laura's experience included highs and lows, with most of the lows not being of her own making. Academically she did very well but an incident early in her experience there provided some challenges. Laura worked through them and as a result she received a graduate school appointment plus met the man of her dreams, who happens to also be a fellow CS34 member. Her perseverance has resulted in these rewards.
After these presentations, there was a fine 35 minute video presentation, which was excellent and was put together by Don & Mary Ellen Wessendorf. Thank you.
After the Firstie Salute we had the election of officers for the 2009-2010 term. The floor was opened up for nominations for anyone who wanted to volunteer. The following members were elected:
Presidents - George & Sandy Primm Vice Presidents - Tom & Mary Kashul Treasurers - Bruce & Terri Lanphear Secretary - Fred & Karen Bell
At the close of the meeting, the Presidents took the opportunity to say that the goal for 2009-2010 is that the members of the NIPC look forward to every meeting, we all leave friends and we look forward to the next event. We understand that no one is perfect and we all want one thing; that everything we do we do to the best of our ability.
GREAT EVENT DESPITE THE WEATHER !!
Hours of preparation by many NIPC parents for our 2nd Annual Chicago Nite had gone well. David & Janine Nyre had left their home on Wednesday, April 15 with a carload of food and items for the event and then on Thursday, the weather forecast for Colorado Springs had 24 inches of snow on Friday and more to follow on Saturday. Oh no. We had 160 Vienna hot dogs, 30# of Italian Beef, 32 Chicago style pizzas and 300+ give-away items all ready for Saturday. Not to mention 15 NIPC family members who were planning on traveling to the event to help set-up the room, prep & serve the food and then clean-up. What were we going to do? Get it done. There was supposed to be a Noon meal formation which several members were going to watch from the Chapel wall, but that was cancelled due to the weather. We had planned on an on-site pre-event meeting at Arnold Hall on Friday afternoon but that was moved to the Residence Inn off of the Interquest Parkway exit. The meeting was done in 25 minutes and we agreed to meet at Arnold Hall at 3:30pm on Saturday to start preparing for the 5pm event. The fog and snow were thick all day, but an hour before our meeting on Friday the blue sky was out and sunny. By the time the meeting was over, it was snowing and foggy again; can't we catch a break? The roads were closed at the Academy and not only was there concern about the event on Saturday, but the Cadets were "restricted" at first, but then they had the opportunity to sign out but there was a 8pm deadline to be off base. We spoke with an AF Lt. Col. and he said Arnold Hall is always open no matter what because the Cadets need a place to go. Also, there is always a snow route open and were given those details. Of course after the event was over, on Sunday it was in the 60's and the snow was basically gone. Welcome to the Hill.
Rosa Garcia arrived at USAFA on Weds. for the wrestling team banquet. She stayed at Rampart Lodge and she and Juan were the first ones to arrive around 3pm on Saturday. On the right is a picture of the hallway leading to the Chicago Nite room event.
We had the same room as last year so we knew what to do. Bob Glitz had the great idea of putting together a Chicago Nite DVD, featuring Chicago songs along with Chicago pictures. He also asked that that parents send pictures of their Cadets so they could be included in the show. It was a hit and we had 74 copies on the tables and 50 were taken. There are copies left for parents who would want them. Here is a picture of Bob and Tom Kashul hooking up the laptop to the projector in the room which projected onto a large screen. Perfect.
As last year, Julia Knight was there to help and her son, Kyle was there to help set-up. Kyle was there early last year also, so thank you Kyle. On the pic to the right are NIPC members Rosa Garcia, Karen Schatsiek, Mary Kashul, Karen, Fred & Julie Bell prior to the event and setting-up.
On the left is a picture of the Chicago table where Cadets could take any of the items. These included many styles of Chicago style T-shirts, Bears hats, White sox car flags, Cubs t-shirts & banners, Chicago hats, postcards & 150 boxes of Chicago's own World Finest Chocolate.
Rosa, Karen & Karen getting the Chicago table ready for the Cadets. On the right is a picture showing some of the Chicago style T-shirts available for the Cadets to take and wear proudly. The Bears hats were particularly popular; Jake Cutler is giving us all alot of hope !!!
While the room was being set-up, there were NIPC members in the new & improved kitchen preparing the food. The kitchen was being remodeled last year. This year it was completed and there were 2 ovens, enough to cook 6 pizzas at a time. Prior to the event, Jim Riley, father of C3C Garrett Riley said he'd be willing to do anything, and he jumped right in.
Right at 5pm the Cadets started to arrive. For the next hour Cadets continued to arrive. We also had a table where they could write a note to the Sponsors who provided the funds to defray the expenses of the food and the Chicago items.
C3C Brendan Lanphear arrives to enjoy the food. Terri, his mom, could not attend this year and gave instructions for him to receive a hug, which he did. C1C Dave Izzo, arrives to enjoy his second Chicago nite. His parents Dave and Gina didn't make it this year, but he wanted to make sure they knew he enjoyed the night.
The tables were full. We started with 10 tables and as the Cadets came in, we had to roll out 3 or 4 more so they'd have a place to enjoy the food.
On the left are 2 NIPC Cadets from CS-34. Dave Izzo, a huge Cubs fan, is caught trying to sneak out of the event with a Sox window flag. His fellow Loose Hawg, C3C Joel Primm is here trying to remove the flag before the pic was taken and used as blackmail with his parents. Actually this was staged. With 15 days of classes left Dave said he would go along with this staged pic, but after it was taken, he immediately washed his hands. There are more pictures for you to see of the night. It was enjoyed by all. We have to thank all the parents who volunteered, at their own expense, to get to USAFA to put on this event. These members not only did work prior to the event, they set-up, cooked and cleaned-up. Thank you!!!!
We need to thank Scott Saxon, Arnold Hall Facilities Manager, who was great to work with in setting this up and providing us with all the items we needed to pull this off. For those who helped last year, the kitchen and the utensils were great. It was much easier this year then last and it'll be easier next year !!
SPONSORS NOTE: The Northern Illinois Parents Club would like to recognize and thank the following Corporate Sponsors of Chicago Nite. It is their generosity that is allowing us to provide the Cadets with the best event that we can. All funds donated were used for only the Cadets. Listed below are the sponsors and their websites. If you should visit their business please let them know you are an USAFA parent and appreciate their support and generosity.
Class of 2013 Nominee Brunch
On Sunday, February 15, 2009 we had 186 Attendees sitting at 19 full tables. It was a beautiful sunny & clear day for our Annual Nominee Brunch at the Itasca Country Club. I am still excited about the event and the huge success we all experienced. For those attending it far exceeded our expectations. The goal was to give the Nominees and families a very clear explanation of what to expect and it was done superbly. Those Nominees & families who do become Appointees now have a basis of knowledge which only those Nominees who have had family attend USAFA have.
First, we must thank Scott & Mary Schemenaur, former Presidents for the NIPC for asking Marty Marcolongo, "The Webguy" in 2008 to consider being our speaker. Without their vision, this event would not have been the success that it was.
We must acknowledge the huge amount of work and effort that went into this event and we would like to publicly thank the following NIPC members who both attended the Brunch to be available to answer questions and contributed to getting work done before and after the event :
Because of the extraordinary turnout of the NIPC membership there was one member family at each table. THANK YOU.
This year's speaker was
Marty Marcolongo,
aka The Webguy and he exceeded all of our expectati
Here are pictures covering the event.
The registration table was set-up at the front of the Country Club. Karen Schatsiek & Mary Kashul made sure that this went smoothly. In fact, by 11:10am all but 8 had already registered. Outstanding. that's Ken Schatsiek and Terri Lanphear preparing for the raffle. Ken and Karen drove from Peoria because "we were helped so much last year by this that we want to help someone else this year. That's the spirit!!!
This is the table of many USAFA and AOG items that were available for the attendees to take. There was also a picture board showing what would happen their first year, including In-processing, BCT-1 & 2, Acceptance, Parents Weekend and Acceptance. On the right is a banner showing all of the Squads badges. That was at the entrance to the ballroom.
Bruce & Terri Lanphear arrived right at 9am. Bruce was in charge of the Audio / Visual and got right to work on setting up the program with Marty, who is standing next to Bruce. At the same time the NIPC Cadets were helping getting things ready.
The tables were set and looked great. The centerpieces were taken care of by Karen & Ken Olsowski and delivered just in time. Carly Olsowski assisted with setting them up and making sure the American and Air Force flags were "just right".
Carly, Ken & Karen Olswoski talking with Terri Lanphear prior the event beginning. You see the smiles on their faces? They were on them the entire time of the Brunch and afterward. On the right Gerry Phillips continuing to talk with Nominees.
Marty was kind enough to bring some items for a raffle. These were some outstanding items that are now in the possession of the attendees. Items included a USAFA desk lamp, t-shirts, Class bags, USAFA pins & other great items. On the right is a picture of several special items. For the 50th anniversary USAFA had a limited edition run of stamps. These stamps have the Academy P.O. cancel mark on them. Also, there were about 7 or 8 limited edition and numbered lithographs. Those who had their tickets pulled were very excited. I would estimate there were 30 items in total, so the odds of having your ticket pulled were very good.
The Nominees introduced themselves and then it was the ALO's turn. Richard Jenkins is the new head of the ALOs for Illinois and mentioned that he had just been to USAFA for a meeting with ALO's. He has been tasked with making a model / organization that will be used as a model for the country. He also mentioned that there is a new initiative to use Parents as ALOs in assisting the Academy in their recruitment efforts.
The food was excellent and plentiful. 186 attendees enjoyed a variety of food, from fresh fruit, made-to-order omlettes, french toast, fresh made waffles, to prime rib, chicken, shrimp and salads. The desserts were great too. I think there was something there for everyone.
The Cadet Color guard posted the
colors, we opened with an Invocation and then the Brunch began around 12:20pm.
Arou
After Marty spoke the Cadets followed
to answer questions. Five NIPC Cadets came home for this function.
3C3 Carly Olswoski of Elgin, C4C Caitlin Glitz of Des Plaine
Here are more pictures for you to enjoy.
2009:
2008:
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