The first-ever Cook County Curling Club – American Legion Post 413 Open Halloween Bonspiel was a huge success October 28 – 29. Eight teams took part in the inaugural event and all said they would be back next year.
The event saw six local teams and two teams from St. Paul and included some curlers with long family connections to the Cook County club. Chuck Futterer, Mark Pederson and Bob Hedstrom are all sons of former curling club presidents. Joining their team was Cory Hudler, whose dad, Steve Hudler, currently serves on the curling club board. All enjoyed carrying on the curling tradition— and claiming first place in the “A” event.
Winning the “B” event was Jim King with his sons-inlaw Curt Siverson and Dennis Abraham, both of St. Paul, and Ron Paul of St. Paul.
Runners-Up in the “A” event was another “family” team— Pete and Carline Gresczyk and their son, Greg, made up a team with George Maruska and Teresa Hansen as alternate.
The Runners-Up in the “B” event were Brian and Joanne Smith, Val Littfin, and Andrew Smith.
Adding to the fun was the Halloween theme. Curlers were invited to come in costume and many did—there were hippies, superheroes, and Minnesota Vikings. A lot of spectators stopped by to see the costumes and the curling action. “Spectators are always welcome— actually, encouraged to come on in,” said Curling Club Secretary Joanne Smith.
Joining forces with the American Legion made the event a lot of fun, said Smith. “They were at the club with their delicious broasted chicken. It was great to be able to curl and then just relax and visit during dinner.”
Smith said all of the curlers also appreciated the Legion and Sven & Ole’s Pizza certificates they received. “We saw a lot of people downtown throughout the weekend,” said Smith.
League play is now underway and the curling club is making plans for another bonspiel in February. Anyone who would like more information is encouraged to stop by the curling club at 317 West 5th Street to check out the action.
Or talk to any board member—Bill Parish, George Maruska, Andrew Smith, Steve Hudler, or Joanne Smith. Or visit the club’s new website at www.cookcountycurlingclub.com.
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