2023-24 was another enjoyable year for our loyal group of 35 to 40 CDWF supporters. We continued with our usual 6 PM dining format in groups of 6, 8 or occasionally 10, at various members homes except in January and February when we put in place an interesting experiment. As some members had expressed concerns with night driving during the winter months we presented two options for dining during those months by offering a choice of a lunch get together at 12 noon or a dinner experience at 6 pm. Both were held on the same date - 4th Thursday of the month - both were fully subscribed and in each case the guests and hosts enjoyed the winter format. We’ll do another straw vote and decide whether to continue that change for winter 2025.

Other than that we enjoyed the usual July and August pot luck picnics and of course the December cocktail party for again the total group. We all enjoy our small group dining experiences but those three total group large events are great fun and an opportunity to catch up with each other. For all events we greatly appreciate those members who step up to host. The willingness of our hosts to contribute their homes, time and delicious main courses are what enables us to function as we do. For those of you who are considering joining us the actual format for our get togethers follows below.

The host prepares the main dish for each event and the guests participate in the meal by providing an appetizer, a salad, a vegetable dish or a dessert of their choice, as requested by the host. The guests also bring their preferred beverages and all in all the evenings are fun, relaxed and not too much effort for anyone. The host, other than the usual dust and vac, sets the table, provides the table settings and does the post cleanup—aren’t we glad most of us have dishwashers? It is expected that each regular participant will take a turn at hosting at least twice throughout the fall, winter, or spring months. The committee will organize the summer pot luck picnics and the December cocktail party.

If this sounds interesting to you we would love to have you join our group!