The evening's weather was more suited to that of London -foggy, cold and damp!  That was certainly not the case when one entered the Russell's Bistro.  Dan and Betty graciously opened their beautiful home to a great Rotary Pot Luck dinner.  We thank them for this chance to get together socially in a great and welcoming venue.  Upon entering we were given the opportunity to choose a beverage from a large array of fine wines and spirits and then given a chance to sample a wide variety of appetizers and hors-d'oeuvres.   Among the choices were stuffed mushrooms, a huge anti pasta tray, dips, chips, a secret hummus prepared by Sue Klock, and a wide variety of cheeses. Enough to satisfy any craving!

 

Shortly after six, President Mark called us to order and had little business to deal with, so we sang our traditional Rotary Song, and the Welcome Song for the 45 or so Rotarians, spouses, and friends in attendance.  Small groups gathered in the many rooms and enjoyed conversations, pre dinner snacks, and legal beverages.  Soon major organizer, Ceil Collins, called us to gather together and traverse the buffet line- something we have grown accustomed to - and fill our plates from the bountiful selection of pot luck dishes ,brought by those in attendance.  President Mark and his wife, Lori, generously donated the meat entrees, a luscious steamship round of beef, and gigantic roasted turkey breasts.  Thanks!  A collection of salads, vegetables, rolls and assorted side dishes completed the table.  Wow!  It was great!

 

Upon completion of the main course, Ceil and her crew assembled a wide variety of cakes and pies to complete a fantastic evening of food and friendship.  Great raves for the apple pies and the Pecan Bundt cake.  Our Caterer and Dan Russell worked quickly trying to keep up with the dinner plates and silverware being brought back to the kitchen.  Sure helps to have two king sized dishwashers located in your kitchen.

 

With dinner complete our Rotarians continued to converse and enjoy a special evening of fellowship.  It was great to note the variety of people engaged in different combinations throughout the evening.  This writer left about 8:20 and the party was still going strong.  Important to note - The Holiday Party will be December 16th.  Make sure you signup next week or by email to Ceil.  The cost is $50 per person, and the choices are - Prime Rib, Filet Mignon, Chicken Florentine, and Salmon Florentine, and of course the traditional open bar and assorted pre meal goodies.  Please bring a check for Ceil if you haven't already done so.

 

Nominating Committee Chair, Mary Martin, submits the following list of officers for next year.  They will be voted upon at the annual meeting scheduled for December 30th.  President - Bill Saunders, President Elect, -Susan Hansen, Secretary;-Susan Hansen until January 1, 2017, Treasurer ,- Mary Martin,  Past President, - Mark Glass.  Directors: - Alex Wisz, Bob Buettner, Mike Kerrigan, Bob Wood, Ned Lynch, Wes Willett, and Jack Sayre.  Sgt-at-Arms for the Board will be appointed 1 week following the election.

 

'til next week, Bob Wood