Successful ISO Guild of Springfield Pi(e) Day Fundraiser
This year’s Pi Day/Pie Day celebration with the Illinois Symphony Guild of Springfield proved that a simple idea—good food, good music, and a dash of creativity—can add up to something truly memorable.
Held on March 14 (3.14), the event, held at Westminster Presbyterian, drew more than 60 attendees, with a few welcome last-minute additions. The menu centered on sixty chicken pot pies and five vegetarian options from Harvest Market, complemented by a Texas-style coleslaw adapted—with Midwestern restraint—from a Kimbell Art Museum recipe and prepared by Dale Rogers and Eleanor VanDeventer. Guests were greeted with a festive punch of apple juice, pineapple juice, and ginger ale, setting a cheerful tone from the start. Guild board members ensured the evening ran seamlessly, from setup to clean-up.
Entertainment was a highlight. Jay Kitterman, Guild Treasurer, kicked off the festivities by recounting his long tenure as a professional pie judge for the Illinois State Fair. Two Youth Orchestra musicians impressed with poise and artistry: violinist Daisy Kerr (7th grade) charmed the audience with Humoresque, while pianist Raymond Chau (also 7th grade) performed with precision and style. Donald Tallman and Dale Rogers added a playful and informative program weaving together baking, fruit, and mathematics, with a nod to Ludolph van Ceulen, whose calculations helped define the value of pi.
In true Pi Day fashion, remaining slices were sold at $3.14 (or two for $6), helping bring the evening’s total to approximately $1,500.
A perfect blend of community, culture, and a little mathematical fun, Pi Day/Pie Day once again delivered a memorable—and meaningful—success.