Robert “Rob” Gorgas and his lovely wife, Barbara, always believe that the brisk winds of the winter season should include a touch of celebration. They have hosted a gathering with friends and family to embrace the season with warmth and hospitality for the past eight years.
As is always the custom, Rob and Barbara opened the door of their home to their friends to enjoy an evening of fellowship and good food. The annual party held recently at their home in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, offered gourmet delights and was highlighted with beautiful décor representing the winter season for the enjoyment of the 60 guests. One of the highlights of the evening was reminiscing about last year as well as sharing plans for the new year.
An amazing, lighted landscape greeted us at the entrance. Once inside three gorgeously decorated trees throughout the house were still in place.
The signature drink, which was served as guests as they entered the living room, was a sparkling Bellini. As friends sipped their drinks, hot hors d'oeuvres were passed. A sumptuous buffet was opened, consisting of honey baked ham, coleslaw, beef tenderloin, succulent spare ribs, macaroni and cheese, fresh greens, assorted smoked fish, pepper steak, spring rolls and a fresh fruit bowl.
Even as guests filled their plates, someone yelled, “Where are the lamb chops?” And in keeping with tradition, out came the coveted lamb chops. Conversation was abounding. Good friends and familiar faces were there, such as Dr. Walter and Nicole Harris, Ann and Harold Hairston, Michael and Hortense LeVere, Rob’s cousins Guy and Judy Booth. Others “Out & About” included Rosalie and Rick Weist from Minersville, Pa. and Sybil Williams from New York. On the lower level of their home, an assortment of delicious desserts was served. Among those with a sweet tooth were Gary and Kim Bundy, Jimm and Debbie McKee, Andre and Michele Holt and Dr. Phillip “Phil” Lewis.
In the living room an entertaining joke competition took place between Bernard “Bernie” Chavis and Don Waterford as Bernie’s wife, Mila, and Don’s wife, Susan, sat on the sidelines and watched. A toast was also made to newlyweds Angie and Karl Holloway. The gathering continued late into the evening and everyone, including the host and hostess, had a wonderful time. Rob and Barbara scored again. Thank you for a very special evening.
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Although I am a social columnist, it would be remiss of me not to pay homage to two women who left an indelible mark on our community. Both Fatimah Ali and Joanne Hawkins passed very suddenly within the past two weeks. They were my lifelong friends.
Fatimah’s family and mine have a long history, an enduring relationship and many good memories. I’ve known Fatimah all of her life. Her mother, Mary “Bunny” Hughes, and I are in the Circle-Lets Club together and met 30 plus years ago as members of The Philadelphia Links Inc. My eldest daughter, Kira Clifford, worked with Fatimah at 900AM WURD Radio where she took Kira under her wing. She and Kira spent commuting time together and enjoyed a personal as well as professional relationship. Kira, like so many others, admired Fatimah’s fortitude and professionalism. I will always remember Fatimah as a loving mother, daughter, sister, wife, grandmother, friend and accomplished journalist.
Joanne was very much a part of the Philadelphia professional, civic and social landscape. I will treasure the memories of our time together at Girl’s High wearing our circle pins and carrying our blue canvas book bags. Joanne could always make me smile. I am grateful for the many wonderful memories. As her sister-in-law, Leslie Fletcher, my college roommate at Hampton and dear friend shared, “Joanne and my brother, “Larry” (Rev. Lawrence S. Harris) were married for 37 years. She took her marriage vows of “through sickness and health” and “til death do us part” very seriously. Her family meant everything to her. She leaves a gaping hole in all of our hearts. Bruce R. Hawkins, Joanne’s first and very special cousin, and his wife, Lisa Hawkins, are also longtime friends, and I extend my heartfelt sympathy to them and the entire family.
Fatimah and JoAnne left us far too soon as far as we are concerned, but everything happens in Allah’s/God’s time. My sincere condolences are extended to both families, and I am grateful for and will treasure the memories of these two dynamic women.
Thank you to Gloria Williams for sharing this lovely photograph.
