Perfect weather for the dinner!
Jo Schenk
Sunday, April 17 found the inhabitants of Oakwood’s East Crystal Drive once again rocking the block with this year’s 14th annual Progressive Dinner. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., neighbors began arriving at Dr. Keith and Joyce Bachman’s tastefully appointed home. Perfect cocktail party weather assured a free-flowing gathering of happy neighbors both indoors and out, sampling delicious while meeting and greeting friends and neighbors.
Moving on to what has become the traditional site of the entrée portion of the evening at the lovely home of Tom and Judy Smith – 52 attendees from singles to half-century weds, snowbirds and transplants from all three coasts, to visiting granddaughters partook of a vast and varied assortment of delicious gourmet entrees ranging from Dottie’s spaghetti bake, lasagna, ham, Sparky’s infamous meatloaf, pulled pork, Mexican casserole delight to garlic shrimp Alfredo.
Lovely, leafy salads fulfilled all vegetable needs and were delightful along with a marvelous watermelon offering. Once again, the perfect weather found the Smith home turned into a logistical wonderland indoors and out as they seated everyone in various private dining areas complete with charming table settings. Tablecloths, napkins, table décor – all impeccable.
A sweet ending to the evening was then found at the charming home of Harvey and Carol Knudsen where guests were greeted with an amazing assortment of toothsome desserts – chocolate torte, eclairs and cream puffs, strawberry fluff, carrot cake and particularly delicious homemade chocolate macaroons.
Kudos go out to a few amazing gals who coordinate it all, notably Nancy Annen (food coordinator extraordinaire) and Joyce Spartonos (Madame Directoire of the event) and Carol Knudson (Madame Sommelier).
A long standing tradition, the East Crystal Progressive Dinner began 14 years ago and continues to enforce and uphold the street’s tradition of friendly neighbor get-togethers promoting friendship and fun. Everyone is looking forward to next year’s 15th annual dinner.