It was a perfect Sunday to enjoy the annual picnic hosted by the gracious members of Ye Olde Philadelphia Club. Fortunately, the rain held off so the event could be enjoyed without interruption. This year the group gathered at the beautiful groves of Ft. Washington State Park.
Selecting this facility for the first time was a good call by the club’s entertainment committee chaired by James Potts and Thomas Garrett.
At the stroke of 1 p.m., members of the club’s entertainment committee began serving delicious meats, fish and vegetables from multiple grills. The club’s lunch was a special addition to the delicious abundance of dishes prepared by members and guests. What a fabulous feast!
As members added their personal specialty dishes to the picnic smorgasbord, mouths watered with anticipation. Elaine and Louis DeVaughn presented specialties such as white bean with arugula & orzo, arugula, pine nut and dried cherry salads. Pat and Preston Scott presented a succulent dish. Bob and Barbara Gorgas put on their chef’s hats with Susan and Don Waterford to create a tasty, culinary creation. There were smiles, hugs and handshakes as guests were greeted by Bob Chapman and his gracious wife Rose. Guests gathered at open tables and pointed at the beautiful dishes, enjoying refreshing beverages, food and socializing.
For those energetic spirits there were many activities to enjoy. There were horse shoe games, volley ball and tennis. With the 2012 Summer Olympic Games as an inspiration, picnickers were eager to participate. Among them was life member Charles Woodson III, who made a trip from his home in Florida to be with the membership.
It was wonderful seeing so many beautiful young people there with their families. The tradition of the event has always been to encourage members to make it a true family gathering. Dating back more than fifty years, the picnic has always been a quality time for members to get to know each other’s families more intimately.
Among members and guests “Out & About,” and having a fantastic time were: Jimm and Debbie McKee, April and Bill Rawlings, Claudia Averette-Williams and Lou Williams, Shawn Alexandra Graham and Roger Graham, Joyce Matthews and Joseph Watkins, George and Debbie Otey*, Charlie Hawkins and Gail Bush Hawkins, Audrey and Preston Taylor (club president & first lady) Orien Reid, Rose and Bob Chapman, Angel and Stevie Allen, Chaquita and Donald Donaldson, Careem Thomas and Jenyne Donaldson, Judy Simpkins and Guy Booth, Patricia Perry and Deadra Cannon.
As the last days of summer approach and we put away the lawn chairs, sunscreen, mosquito repellant sandals and beach hats; let’s keep the grills and charcoal nearby. We can bask in wonderful memories of summer 2012 and continue barbequing as the air turns crisp!
Have a fantastic week, everyone!
