Melinda Bailey
I N T E R V IEW WIT H
Mike Panozzo
MELINDA BAILEY
Mike Panozzo is the Editor of the long-standing print billiard magazine, Billiards Digest (BD), and he also co-owns its publishing company, Luby Publishing. Mike is well-known in the pool industry and among the players. Everyone loves his wit, knowledge, and that he lives life to the fullest. Let’s find out more about Mike! Q: How did you and your wife meet? What is the secret to the sustainability of your marriage? I always joke, “I’ve been married 35 years…and they’ve been 12 of the happiest years of my life!” I get that from my 87-year-old dad, who still introduces my mother as his “first wife.” Ellen and I met freshman year in college, but didn’t start dating until junior year. Got married a few years after graduation. I was at Billiards Digest and she was in grad school. I really think sustainability in marriages comes from having gone through the years of no money and big decisions…careers, where to live, etc. So many young people now wait until their lives are settled and in order before they get married. I think going through that process with someone helps you as a couple in the long run. Also respect. You have to respect each other. Q: You’ve lived in Chicago your entire life. What are some things you really love about your city? I would never live anywhere else but Chicago. To me, it’s New York City with civility, despite what people read about in terms of crime. People here, in general, are Midwest nice. Also, it’s
14 | Billiards Buzz • July 2017