Anna’s Pizza in Winnebago celebrates 20 years in business

By Doug Schroder

Editor

WINNEBAGO – On Saturday, Dec. 19, Anna’s Pizza owner Brian Weavel celebrated 20 years in business with various activities throughout the day. It all kicked off with former Rockford IceHog Oak Hewer filling in as a celebrity pizza maker at 11 a.m. Brian also lined up other local celebrities to fill in as guest pizza makers, such as former Rockford Peach baseball player Sis Waddell, TV personalities Mike Garrigan and Mark Henderson, along with a few local radio personalities, and Winnebago’s own Joe Coots.

As usual with Brian, he sought to give back to the community, and managed to raise over $200 for Toys for Tots.

A buffet of pizza, snacks and appetizers were served throughout the day.

Rob Freeman of Winnebago was the lucky winner of 20 free pizzas that Brian gave away during the celebration.

Sis Waddell was working on pizza making when the Gazette arrived, while Mike Garrigan and Mark Henderson finished up their shift. It was a hoot with those three back in the kitchen. They added laughter and fun to the event.

When asked about his 20 years in business, Brian responded, “It’s been a lot of fun, I enjoy doing what I do. The community’s great, and I want to thank the Village of Winnebago for having me for 20 years. It’s been fantastic.”

It is very fortunate for the Village of Winnebago to have a business owner like Brian in the community. He gives so much back and does so much.

Here’s to 20 more!

Sis Waddell, Brian Weavel, Mark Henderson and Mike Garrigan pose for a picture during Anna’s 20th anniversary celebration on Saturday, Dec. 19. Doug Schroder photo