REVIEWS OF PAST EVENTS - April 2011 and beyond are now linked to from the REVIEWS PAGE .

3/27/11 - Klezmer Concert & BBQ Buffet Dinner - Harry Frank Klezmer Band with dinner catered by Old Florida Catering at South County Civic Center - Sunday March 27, 2011 - Dinner: 6:00 - 8:00 PM - Concert: 8:00 - 9:30 PM

2/27/11 - Broward County Mummers String Band Musical Extravaganza and Luncheon
On Sunday morning, February 27th, 2011, members and guests of The Philadelphia Social Club had absolutely no idea of what was in store for them as they poured into our room at the South County Civic Center. Filled with excitement and anticipation of strutting their stuff, everyone circulated, chatted up their friends, and marveled at the exquisite tables, each containing an arrangement of delicious food catered by TooJays on Yamato Road (Regency Court, West Boca). Not to mention enough cans of soda and bottled water for well over 200 people.

The centerpieces on each table were huge trays laden with scrumptious corned beef, roast beef, turkey, and tuna salad sandwiches on rye, along with great tasting potato salad, coleslaw, pickles, mustard, mayo and Russian dressing.

Next to come out were the dessert trays containing Rugelach, black and white cookies, macaroons, chocolate chip cookies, and brownies. However, the 'real' dessert appeared when a handful of board members, carrying large colorful baskets, passed out Tastykakes to all - a choice of chocolate creme cupcakes or krimpets, Chocolate Juniors and everyone's favorite, peanut butter Tandy Takes, plus a selection of sugar-free Tasty Kakes and Rugelach to those requesting it.

When board member Lewis Rachmell took over the mic, everyone pulled out the door prize tickets they were given when they first checked in. Lew is solely instrumental in procuring all of our wonderful gifts and gift certificates, which he generously gives out at various Philly Club events. Lew called out five numbers and the first four winners received gift certificates to local restaurants. The fifth winner received a gift certificate awarding a day cruise for two. Suffice to say, everyone was thrilled with their unexpected prize gifts.

That was part one. However, no one had any indication of what was to come! Based on prior years, our members had visions of the long time Philadelphia tradition: a happy band dressed in sequins and feathers strumming their instruments. It is now 2011 - eight years later -and WHAT A DIFFERENCE! No one in their wildest imagination ever expected anything like what they were about to witness and participate in.

While everyone was enjoying their dessert and coffee, the Broward County Mummers String Band, 48 strong, headed up by Captain Jack Hultman, was assembling and setting up their banjos, saxophones, clarinets, guitars, drums, keyboard and bells on stage. This year, the entire string band was decked out in elaborate red, white and blue costumes.

A very welcome addition were the Mummers clowns . . . three elderly women dressed in flouncy wide skirts. But what was totally surprising, they were made up to look like very young girls and had the most youthful, amazing appearance. Not only that, could they dance the mummers strut! It was quite a show they put on for us throughout the afternoon!

When Captain Jack Hultman strutted to the music in fancy costume, he encouraged our people to take little parade umbrellas and join him on the dance floor. Strands of colorful Mardi Gras beads were given to all who participated. Those in their seats, had song sheets and all participated in the singing, hand clapping, and foot stomping. Their smiles of enjoyment were quite apparent.

The red, white and blue accessorizing was totally apropos, especially when they honored the service men and veterans with a parade of flags. While the string band played the songs identified with the various divisions of the service, the three Mummer clowns strutted to this breathtaking musical extravaganza.

Equally delightful and most enjoyed was a banjo duet plus three songs most were able to identify with: "Hava Nagila," "Tsena, Tsena," and "Bei Mir Bistu Shein."

True to form, the Broward County Mummers String Band brought the house down Philly style when they closed with the song that everyone was waiting for, "Oh Dem Golden Slippers."

Today's entertainment, considered by some to be Mardi Gras for Philadelphians, was beyond spectacular! It was a magical day that put smiles on everyone's face; an afternoon that will linger in our memories for many years to come.

Kudos to Carol Weiss-Singer for organizing this entire event, to Harriet Gershman who was very involved with taking all the RSVP's, and our heartfelt thanks to all the members who came very early to help us set up.

An interesting fact . . . Members of the Broward County Mummers String Band are not paid. The nominal fee they charge is used to purchase the genuine Mummers costumes that are made in Philadelphia.

2/15/11 - Book & Author Luncheon -
Once again, our Mystery Book & Author Event, held on Tuesday, February 15th, was a smashing success! At noon, our Philly Club members and guests met at the Fifth Avenue Grill in Delray, where the meal setting was lovely and the service excellent. We all enjoyed a delicious lunch; our choice of London Broil, Artichoke Crusted Dolphin, or Pasta Primavera, topped off with either an ice cream sundae or fresh fruit. Truly a gourmet meal, it is best described as a dinner rather than a lunch.

A short drive away, we convened at the "Murder on the Beach" mystery book store in time for the 1:30 p.m. presentation by author Mary Stanton. Ms. Stanton addressed the group and spoke about her personal development as an author, the publishing business, and her favorite authors. In exchanges with the audience, Ms. Stanton answered all questions thoughtfully and with genuine interest. The afternoon included a complimentary autographed copy of Ms. Stanton's most recently published mystery novel, "Angel's Verdict."

When The Philadelphia Social Club plans an event, we try to do everything we can to make it an afternoon to remember. This event met all of our expectations and more, thanks to mystery author, Mary Stanton. We extend our thanks and appreciation to Joanruth Hirshman who arranged and chaired this wonderful day for us.

1/18/11 - Culinary Event, Tour & Lunch - Whole Foods Market, Boca Raton

See also
2009 PAST EVENTS

2008 PAST EVENTS

2007 PAST EVENTS

2006 PAST EVENTS

2004-2005 PAST EVENTS