The men of Ye Olde Philadelphia Club hosted a fabulous afternoon of dancing and fine dining with their wives and significant others recently. The club hosts four special events annually. Most include guests but this gathering is special, it is just for the membership. Members were greeted by Robert “Bob” Gorgas, past president who served as master of ceremonies. He provided a brief history of the event and asked the chairman of the entertainment committee to offer the invocation.
“This was a very special time for Ye Olde Philadelphians to bond with each other as a family unit as well as to acknowledge and reflect upon 85 years as a group,” said member and club officer Robert “Bob” Chapman.”
The venue this year was the beautiful LuLu Country Club in Glenside, Pa. The members-only party was originated by the late member, Hugo Marcos and lifelong member Lloyd Ama. The gathering was originally an informal affair with light refreshments. As it grew in popularity the event has taken on many forms. Sometimes it was a black tie evening dinner dance and at other times, an elegant brunch. There was even a year when the party was a luncheon and fashion show. The entertainment committee is always seeking a way to surprise attendees and enhance the event.
Following lunch Bob Gorgas asked for a moment of silence to honor one of the club’s most popular and loved members, Paul S. Terry, who died March 7, 2012. Following the touching tribute the program was turned over to the club’s current president Preston Taylor.
Changing the mood he asked the members to introduce their exquisite wives and significant others. How long couples of Ye Olde Philadelphians have been blissfully married, was the question of the day! Many responded that they had achieved the 40-year mark. Some were married 50 years or more, and one couple is just about to celebrate 65 years this summer.
However, Bill and Betty Johnson made up the only couple who had already been together for 65 years. With that announcement, there was a very warm and spontaneous round of applause. Congratulations, and very best wishes to them.
As the men of the Olde Philadelphia Club gathered at the LuLu Country Club for their private party they were greeted by the beautiful Rose Chapman and the club secretary Robert “Bob” Chapman. The Chapmans graciously moved about the room making sure that everyone was comfortable and directed to the libations. Each of the ladies was presented with a luscious box of chocolates with the official club seal. As the festivities continued, Bob and Rose Chapman opened the dance floor by leading the first dance. Bob Chapman has been a member for over four decades and secretary for the past fourteen years. Along with Mr. Chapman, the other officers are president, Preston Taylor; vice president, Michael LeVere; treasurer, William Burke and assistant secretary, Byron Golson.
The members of the entertainment committee who helped to make this another fantastic, classic event were: event co-chairs James Potts and Thomas Garrett and committee members: Charles Bush, Artis Ray, Charles Manns, Louis DeVaughn and Robert Gorgas.
Have a fantastic week everyone! I look forward to seeing you “Out & About.”
