By Leigh Butler
As some of us may recall, Bill Rouse had the November Soiree on Friday, October 31st to celebrate Hallowe’en. Fortunately, we can still have two parties this month (three, when we count Thanskgiving). Rita Almond and Robert Lehnert are so happy about not being displaced by greedy land developers that they will host the Salon on the 15th in their charming home. The theme for their party will be a birthday celebration for Mr. Partying himself, Bill Rouse. Let’s all show Bill our appreciation for all that he has done in the past few years. Presents would only embarrass the Birthday Boy, I’m sure, and are never expected at Mensa birthday parties. Divine food and drink, on the other hand, are the universal expression of affection and appreciation. See details and directions in Robert’s article elsewhere in MAAM.
Pete Contantino’s home in east Mesa will be the site of our Shindig on Saturday the 29th, which is Thanksgiving weekend. So many of us don’t go anywhere for the holiday that it gets a little lonesome with everyone else gone, so a party is always welcome. Thank you, Pete, for sharing your beautiful home with us. It will be my great pleasure to be the official host. To get there, take the Superstition Freeway (SR60) to the Sossaman exit, which is past Power Rd. Go north 1-1/2 miles, then east on Main street for another 1-1/2 miles. When you see the Castle Boutique on your right, turn right immeidately after it. Pete’s house is the 4th on the left, has lots of outdoor lighting and a 6’ chain link fence around it. Drive right in on the gravel front, park between the trees and lock your car. The neighborhood urchins do get curious, but you need have no fear of damage.
Both our Soiree and Salon have been spoken for in December, but New Year’s Eve, which falls on a Wednesday, is still open. If you would like to have that honor, better give me a ring soon.
The 1998 party calendar is almost a clean slate, waiting to be filled. You may reserve a date almost as soon or as far ahead as you like. Remember that all parties, unless otherwise specified, have a $2 a head tab. This more than covers the cost of cups, plates, and soda pop. Most hosts also serve a box or bottle of their favorite wine and a dish for the Participatory Buffet, but it isn’t necessary and no one notices if they don’t because guests usually bring enough. Dry parties don’t seem to be well attended. Themes are fun but not required. Inviting your own friends is not only permitted but encouraged. Call me anytime at 264 9321 and I’ll help you plan one. Having a party in one’s home is one of the quickest ways to meet new friends and to become well known in Mensa.