Kick-Off Gala at Farmington – 13 October 2026

First Lady Marilyn and Branch President Phil were excited to welcome everyone back from summer vacation. He hoped that everyone enjoyed some true relaxation to recharge batteries so to speak. For this he shared a little humor from several famous authors as follows:

Spanish Proverb – How perfect it is to do nothing, and then afterwards rest.

Somerset Maugham – It was such a lovely day. I thought it was a pity to get up.

James Thurber – It is better to have loafed and lost than never to have loafed at all.

After a moment of silence for beloved members Philip Keevil and Bill McCowen, as tradition would have it, a Blessing was spoken by former President Patricia Taylor. Head table guests were introduced, featuring Guest of Honor, the Honorable Lady Blanka Rosenstiel – longtime gifting “Angel” of the Branch. New members and guests were introduced. Continuing the tradition, an American anthem was sung, “Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies,” this year, and two members each led toasts to King Charles and President Trump.

The opening formalities were preceded by a Champagne Reception where members engaged in lively conversation and general merriment. The ladies were beautifully turned out in long dresses and gowns. The gents all looked smart in tuxedos.

Then members moved to their tables, formalities then observed, followed by a lovely dinner served in the Ballroom of Farmington Country Club.

Though the invitation spoke to the fact, when “Queen Charlottes’s Villeins,” a local Shakespeare Troupe, swept into the dining room, cavorting, haling, and filling the room with their boisterous presence, the audience was, I may say, delightfully awe-stricken and wondrous at the sights and sounds they seemed surprised to behold. The actors presented scenes from the Bard’s comedies, histories, and tragedies. 

By the close of the evening, the members evidenced a joyous mood, a sense of grand pleasure, with smiles on their faces – much energized by the evening’s offerings.

Adieu, President Williams