Rose Centerpiece on Dessert Table
at Residents Annual Valentine's Dinner and Dance
Though the Brandon Oaks annual Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance was a little early this year, residents had no trouble finding festive red outfits with which to celebrate on February 9. (There are six photos in the right-hand column showing spirited residents.)
Betsy Jenkins, activities director, and her fantastic staff set the stage for the Dinner and Dance. After wine, punch and hors ‘d oeuvres in the game room, we came upon food service’s ultimate chocolate dessert table set up in the main living room. This featured chocolate pies, cakes and coated whole strawberries and was decked with roses, hearts and crystal – very romantic.
In the main auditorium, circular tables for eight decorated in the same manner as the dessert table, waited for us to begin a meal designed for food lovers. Starters were wild mushroom bisque and shrimp cocktail with an especially hot sauce. Entrees were made up of grilled tenderloin au poivre and crabmeat-stuffed flounder, accompanied by oven-roasted vegetables, spanakopita, dilled fingerling potatoes and rustic bread.
Roanoke’s Les Brown and the Stardusters returned to Brandon Oaks to provide music for listening as well as dancing. Our dance floor filled with residents and guests delighted to dance to traditional swing and jazz. The Stardusters’ made sure to play two favorites songs "Under the Boardwalk,” and “Rocky Top.”
This was surely an evening designed for Valentine delights!
Thanks to good friends, not only is my ticket for the BONRC Spring Fashion Show on March 9 in my hands, I also have a place saved at a table for eight. The show features models drawn from Brandon Oaks residents who show off spring clothing selected from Auxiliary contributions. Oohs and aahs - expressions of delight – from the audience express how astonishing it can be to see a previously unwanted outfit look like a million bucks when paired with harmonizing accessories. In addition, Chef Warren Jones and his staff serve up delicious luncheon treats and lucky attendees walk away with attention-grabbing door prizes. 
