Per Vitem!  Ad Vitam!  (Through the vine!  Towards life!)

KNIGHTS  OF THE VINE  Nation's Capitol Chapter

Traditionally held in the Blue Ridge, the Thomas Jefferson Dinner has been our hallmark for fabulous and eclectic dining.  Patty Callahan graciously offered her home for the event.  Set in the piedmont, at the foot of the Blue Ridge, Patty’s home offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the fruits of the Virginia countryside in a manner in which Thomas Jefferson dreamed.

Karen Harper Fuog will be the chef.  In her first effort, not wishing to be too forward, Karen was very good.  A year later, more venturesome, Karen was superb.  Now, after a year break, Karen may be prepared to challenge even the most jaded of our palates (is that possible?).  Be inventive, Karen!

The cost is $175 per person for a member and first guest and $200 per person for additional guests.  Early reservations are being accepted.  Since Sandy Shutler is out of town, please confirm your reservation by sending a check to Ken Haapala, 9634 Boyett Court, Fairfax, VA 22032, (703) 978-6230, ken@haapala.com.  Members have priority!!!

The dinner was almost immediately over subscribed. So we re-arranged the table settings to accommodate all.  Two couples just informed us that they couldn’t attend as planned.  Thus, we now have five slots remaining.

The menu is not final so I cannot include it.  No doubt, it will be terrific.  Some of the wines have been purchased but the remaining ones depend upon the final decisions on two courses.  I can promise several stunning wines.  Do I hear a little bird laughing?

Please note the corrected directions!!  Obviously, Patty moved her house because the prior error could not be mine.
 
 

We will establish the date and theme of this informal event when Sandy and Norm Shutler return from holiday.  It will be near the end of the month.  The last one with Old California Cabs was superb.  It is amazing what some found in the cellars or laying around in a corner of a wine shop.  What was even more amazing is that almost uniformly, the 1970’s was considered the best decade.

Additional information will go out in the next newsletter or look for it on the web page.
 
 

That's right!  Our Christmas Party is the day after the 69th anniversary of the repeal of prohibition.  What a reason to party!  Let me tell you about those dry days long ago!!!

And, what a place to party!  Our hosts, Master Gastronome Sergio Micheli, Knights Michael Puletti, and Chef Richard Micheli have volunteered the use of their rooms at the Ristorante Portofino.  The groaning board of magnificent seafood, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables set by the Portofino is spectacular; the wines are excellent; and the price is "The Value of the Season."   Truly a season to be joyous!

There is no better way to enjoy the company of your old friends and meet your new friends, new and old, than enjoying this festive event.  The cost is $40.00 per person for a member and first guest, and $45.00 per person for additional guests.  (Casey, don't let me forget the Champagne Toast!)

Since this event is such a sensational value we ask that each participant offer an appropriately wrapped gift (approximately $15.00 in value) for a child (age and sex marked on the gift).  These gifts will be shared between the Christmas Fund of Christ Church in Alexandria and a Church in Anacostia.  Feel the spirit of the season!  Come and join us!  But don't forget your gift.  If you don't come, the Grinch will get you!

A short business meeting will be held at 6:45 p.m. to present the budget and vote on officers.  All are welcome but remember only members can vote.
 

Cadre Meeting:  On October 21, the Cadre will meet to discuss the schedule for 2003.  Please let us any of us know your ideas for new events and possible suggestions for improvements of existing events.

Spring Assemblage:  As of today, we received word that no decision has been made for our requested dates for the Assemblage at the Botanic Gardens.  This is frustrating, but it is political bureaucracy.  Both Debra Arthur and Joe Alt have been diligent in following through.