Chers Confrères et Consoeurs:

After two years of rainy picnics, finally “Mr. Sun” decided to be part of our event bringing warmth and comfort. This year for the first time we decided to host the event in the North end of Seattle, and the house of our very generous and kind host and hostess perfectly fulfilled that mission. Richard and Edwina Baxter had arranged an exquisite set up on their lawn overlooking the Puget Sound in their beautiful renovated home in Woodway. The site was spectacular and we were bound for a successful picnic. Our host and hostess, Richard and Winnie, did everything to welcome our Chaîne members and numerous guests in style so that they could fully enjoy what is one of our most enjoyable events of the year, the annual Chaîne picnic and Scholarship auction. This year we had an attendance of close to ninety including a significant percentage of guests.

On behalf of our members I would like to express all our deepest gratitude to Richard and Winnie for having generously hosted our 2009 Picnic.

As usual we were greeted with a glass of French sparkling wine and a Rosé wine selected by Greg Chan, our Vice Echanson and our Pofessionel du vin, Hans Giner. During the reception, we were served an amazing selection of exquisite hors d’oeuvres.  Before lunch started I had the great privilege to introduce many special guests such as Emily, a young culinary student at Renton Technical Collage who received a donation from our scholarship fund and also Varin who is the National Jeune Commis winner and will be competing for us at the International Jeune Commis competition in New York late September. He received a well deserved round of applause. We also welcomed our friend and Bailli Délégué George Brown.

Michael Young Executive Chef and owner of Olives Café and Wine Bar in Edmonds, and his associate Stephanie in charge of the catering prepared for us a fantastic lunch that was appreciated by all. Here is a sample of what had been served at the luncheon: Grilled Ahi Salad Niçoise, Asparagus Mimosa, Laughing Bird Pesto Shrimp “Cocktail”, Seared & Chilled Chile Flake Prawns, Scallop Ceviche, Poached Salmon, Carved Rotisserie Prime Rib, Lamb, & Turkey “French Dips”, Traditional Condiments, Sautéed Mushrooms, Caramelized Onion & Thyme Au Jus.

Before moving on to the amazing dessert buffet, our Scholarship Chair, Barbara Walker got us started on our live auction. As a reminder of our commitment to the local community, Emily and Varin gave a very moving and thankful testimony that touched all of us. A live auction could not happen without a lively auctioneer. This year Ollie Cobb, assisted by Ron Clyborne and Paul Birkeland ran a very successful and entertaining live auction. Thanks to all of you who contributed to the auction whether with a donation for the silent and live auction or your very generous bids; we were able to raise close to $17,000. Included in this amount, was a cash donation that raised $1,200. This was beyond our expectations, and we are very grateful for having so many generous and committed members that are strong supporters of our Scholarship Fund. This Scholarship Auction means a lot to our young culinary students that are struggling to pay for their education. We know that it is money well spent whenever we can help students to accomplish their dream: becoming a culinary professional. Thank you so much for your generosity.

Following the auction, we were treated with a dessert buffet that brought joy and pleasure to our palates. Then it was time to recognize Chef Michael, Stephanie and their team for the great lunch they prepared for us and they received a well deserved standing ovation. That wrapped up a very memorable and successful picnic.

Important!  The date of our October Chaine dinner at Il Terrazzo has been changed! The new date will be announced soon.

Our next events are:

1. Chaîne dinner at Il Terrazzo restaurant on Sunday, October 18
2. Chaîne Intimate dinner at Enotria on Thursday, November 12
3. Christmas Party, Sunday, December 6

In the meantime, please check our website to access the calendar of events, all the pictures of our past events, the chapter directory, the list of our partnership program and a multitude of useful information. www.seattlechaine.com

We are wishing Varin all the best success for the International Jeune Competition in New York.

Please enjoy some pictures of the picnic.

Bien Amicalement et Vive la Chaîne!

Bertrand