The Friday Night Banquet at the Memorial Union was the perfect setting to reconnect with Brothers, some we haven't seen for awhile, some for decades. And, to meet a few of the new Chapter Members. Cocktail hour was followed by dinner followed by short presentations.

 

Sam Leahy '10 (who organized much of the weekend events. Nice job Sam!) welcomed everyone to the festivities. Ben Boden '01 presented the strategic plan and alumni update. Caden Carr '23, Alpha Phi chapter president, updated us on the Chapter's activities and accomplishments including a successful summer/fall rush. (At the same time the banquet was happening, the chapter made it into the top 3 for Yell Like Hell.)​ Guy Packard discussed the current work of the House Corp and how it supported the renovation of 2112, including recent improvements. He also detailed future updates to the inside of the house.​ Finally, Mike Risk took us through the fund raising efforts of the Capital Campaign Committee, thanking those Brothers who have generously donated thus far, and underscored the need for everyone to support the 2112: The House that Built Us campaign in order for the Pike house to remain competitive in the Iowa State Greek community.

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​Saturday morning started with donuts and coffee (as it should!) courtesy of the House Corporation Presentation, including the Pi Kappa Alpha Union Annual Meeting and updates on the 2112: The House That Built Us campaign and pointing out completed Phase 1 renovations.

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The Tailgate started at 11 in the backyard of the Pike House. Plenty of beer and beverages and some really excellent food, plus good tunes. There was a great turnout of Alumni and active chapter members, plus wives and girl-friends, with well over 100 folks attending. Great to meet many more of the impressive Pike undergrads. And, speaking of good tunes... Brother Swede '72, discovered from talking to some of the new chapter guys that their Sorority serenades were missing a classic song (from our time in the 70s anyway). So, of course, a group of Alumni performed a rousing version of "I'm a drunk Pi Kappa Alpha". 

 

All in all, it was perfect pre-game party spot, leading up to a game that started with the Cyclones scoring a touchdown on the very first play from scrimmage! Exciting, hard-fought game with the Clones ahead for 3 1/2 quarters (not so much the last 1/2 of the 4th quarter.)  The Hero of the Game was our very own Lt Col John Watton, Pike pledge class of '76 and winner of the Distinguished Flying Cross, who also joined us at our Friday night banquet. 

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