Happy Birthday, Louie!

Today I celebrate the birthday of Louie, my longtime friend and work partner. I am sure he is celebrating with his family, but I celebrate him here.

Around 40 years ago, while I was at DePaul, I often ate at The Seminary, a restaurant across the street. It was owned by Louie's father and Louie worked part-time there. I saw him, but didn't put any significance to it.

In September 1987, I started at Lerner Newspapers and began working with Louie, who also worked part-time there. When we got to know each other a bit, I made the connection that I had seen him at The Seminary.

Over the next many years, Louie became one of my closest friends. His extended family welcomed me and his friends became my friends, too.  I also became an honorary Greek. We basically worked side-by-side for 17 years, followed by many more years working together at Global Traveler. At a low point in my life, Louie put me on his softball team, despite my lack of skill (I eventually got better lol). I stood up in his wedding. Most recently, he included me with his family when he was inducted into his high school's Hall of Fame. I could not have asked for a better friend or co-worker.

Many years ago, we started using jersey numbers in our birthday greetings. I won't reveal Loui's age, but Ron Rivera is happy to see him.

I will text Louie a pic of Rivera later today and we will have a birthday dinner soon. For now, I wish my dear friend a great birthday!