At my house last night. I was cooking most of the night and several of my friends tried to get me involved in the animated discussions that where going on. But I prefer to observe and cook much more than participate. It is too hard to keep up with conversations now that I have to type everything out.
Joe has been the longest friendship I had, met Joe in first grade or Kindergarten at Frank Allis Elementary school. Jim Pagel is next met him during sixth grade even though we both went to Frank Allis never connected up there. Then Mark Lowe I met in Ninth grade. And John LaBreche in 10th at the Nashold's house. John Otterson I met when I was 18 and in my first full time job at Madison Newspapers. We were both Dispatch Couriers. And we also give each other rides to work as gas was expensive and we weren't making much money.
I will let the group below (If they feel like it) give you all a review of the food. I also made Pizza and Chili. And there were a few beers consumed and tall tales retold. And some new memories made into the data banks last night as well. Good time, Good Friends. My last big hurrah before.......
Mark Lowe, John LaBreche, Joe McCance.
John Otterson
Jim Pagel
Homemade Barbeque sauce.
Pork rib.
Taco dip with Lobster Mac and Cheese in the top of the picture.
Big Cheese platter. 15 year old Cheder, Brie, Blue Cheese, and Swiss Cheese. With Dates, Grapes, Strawberry's, Cherries, Blueberrys, Candied Pecans, Sausage and Chocolate.
Crab dip.
Bacon wrapped Feta Stuff Dates.
Concur on the above sentiments, awesome food and a lot of animated discussion. The only bummer was Russ could not enjoy the food and beverage. It was great to reconnect with old friends and meet John Otterson as well. Thanks for a fun evening Russ!
Posted on behalf of John LaBreche
Good evening. I attended my first pre-wake party last night. The gracious host was Russ Newton. Russ is in the latter stages in his fight against ALS and can no longer speak or eat. I reconnected with Russ after 40 years. Our first reunion meeting was very emotional for me. Seeing a friend going through this makes your heart cry. Now a little bit about the party. Russ prepared a fantastic spread for us. He is a good cook. My favorites were the spicy chicken wings and chili with beef - no beans. The evening was special because Russ allowed all of us to reconnect and share stories while he cranked out dish after…
What a great night. Russ, you spoiled us with some awesome food. I can never say no to ribs, they were outstanding. The chili, your own recipe I believe, was great. I wimped out the hot wings, after the first bite my nose started running! The beef was probably my favorite, think you said it was from a place in San Antonio.
It was a blast hearing stories about your grade school and high school years from Joe, Jim, Mark, and John. Lots of laughs and simply a great time. When you have Russ for a friend you have a friend for life.
All looks delicious