Rhine Post Commander Charlie Johnson (left), and Auxiliary President Mike Maruszak (right) join the corn roasting crew. (Photos by Carol McGowan)
Annual Rhine VFW Post picnic called a success
The annual post picnic at Rhine VFW Post in Garfield Ridge took place on September 1.
Post Commander Charlie Johnson says it’s a big hit every year.
“We have 125-150 people come every year. It’s our annual picnic for our members, their families, and our auxiliary.
“We are one of the best VFWs in the City of Chicago. We have 177 members in our Post and 266 auxiliary members. This is a great event every year. Our volunteers work hard and do a wonderful job with this. Our volunteers make us strong. Our auxiliary is fantastic. Your Post is as good as your auxiliary.”
Johnson said when the VFW in Summit closed, nearly 100 members became part of the Rhine Post.
Joe Wiencek, is Junior Vice Officer of Post 2729 and has been the chairman of the picnic since 2005. He was the Past Commander of Our Boys Post.
“We really get the turnout each year,” said Wiencek.
“They enjoy hot dogs, corn, watermelon, snow cones, popcorn and cotton candy. A good time is had by all.
“We thank the Midway-Garfield Ridge Chamber of Commerce and Toys For Tots for donations for the kids, and for bingo.”
Mike Maruszak has been president of the Rhine VFW Post Auxiliary for the past seven years.
“This annual picnic has been taking place for at least 40 years. It used to be held at Stone Woods by 63rd and LaGrange Road. It was moved here at least 15 years ago and is always held on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend as folks have an extra day off after the picnic.
“It’s all about community. We love bringing families together.”
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