SaddleBrooke Francophiles Club celebrates twenty years

Founding members Jim and Audrey Tarchine, Chairperson Pat Smith,, Bernie and Eileen Salfas.

Pat Smith

In January of 2000, twenty-two Francophiles (lovers of all things French) met at the home of Bill and Suzanne Brown; after talking about many fond remembrances and incredible experiences of our times in France, we formed the group, now known as the SaddleBrooke Francophiles, and began our wonderful journey of sharing French food, fun and friendship with each other. From this nucleus of founding members, our organization has grown to become one of the most active and social groups in SaddleBrooke.

To honor our founders, Bill and Suzanne Brown, and our founding members who have supported and given their time to ensure our success, a gala Anniversary Dinner and Celebration was held on January 19, in the Vermilion Room in the SaddleBrooke One Clubhouse. Current and former members honored our founding members, Bernie and Eileen Salfas, Audrey and Jim Tarchine and Chairperson Pat Smith, with toasts, flowers and kind words for their continuing efforts to keep our club operating at its full potential and spreading the word about who we are and what we represent in the SaddleBrooke community. It was a beautiful evening and Chef Dave and his staff helped to create a most memorable evening.

“Love is in the Air” was the theme for our February 9 “Pink and White” Party. Guests were requested to bring heavy hors d’oeuvres or desserts, and there were French themed door prizes and “Special Treats” for everyone.

The Wines and Foods of the Regions of France will be held on March 16. For this party, guests are requested to bring either hors d’oeuvres or entrees from one of three regions of France, which will be accompanied by red and white wines from those regions. This event has always been a popular one with our members, for we get to create special French foods and share them with each other. Brings out the best of our culinary skills for the evening.

Our season of celebrations will end on a fun note with the “Paris in the Park” event. Music, games, and a picnic style atmosphere will prevail. Always an excellent way to wind down our season of food, fun and friendship.

Diners a la Maison is ongoing. These intimate dinners are hosted by our members and attended by members who bring a variety of dishes to complement the entree. One of the best ways for us to forge new friendships in our club, this event is chaired by Mylinda Guillen. Merci Beaucoup!

For more information, contact Pat Smith at 825-2409. Vive la France!