In the face of tragedy and grief, our drum corps brothers and sisters always come through...family is family even when separated by years and distance and catastrophe.  Well, the Mike Ghilardi benefit in Morton Grove this weekend was no exception.

I would guess that about 150 people were jammed into the Morton Grove American Legion:  Cavies, Imperials, Cougars, Royal Airs, Chi-Angels, Viscounts, Kingsmen, Shoreliners, Vanguard, Kilties...ah hell, the list is endless.

Kudos to the folks who were raised in the St. Michaels neighborhood:  Bosniaks, Boyles, Martins, Kathy Roberge, Mouse and Adi...and all the others who gathered more than 50 raffle items and 25 silent auction items.  I am guessing a significant amount of money was raised to help Mike cover the costs of this horrible tragedy...and in the face of the tragedy, people had fun.

For my part, it was great spending time with RA's from the past and present.  I enjoyed visiting with Jackie and Ami and Sammy...and Ski and Gene...the list is endless.  It was quite a night..watching Mujica dance with a one-legged Roberge..visiting with Tom Day...laughing with Ami and Adam about what is, what was, what shall be...and even joking about some of the myths...well, no explanation needed there.

The bottom line is that it was a fund-raiser for a guy we all care deeply about...and his joy and sadness about the event...family is family. Michael, you are loved by soooooo many.

Thanks to Michael Deane, some pics can be viewed here:

http://gallery.me.com/deaneonpratt1#100330

I will try to post some additional photos on this website.

Slainte'