MNSE 2008 Summer Picnic

The 3rd annual MNSE summer picnic was another success. However this picnic was a "first" and a "last" also. The 2008 picnic was the first picnic that was missing Tom Plichta. MNSE member Tom Plichta passed away after battling cancer in February 2008. . With that the location of the 2008 picnic was in question. However Chris Plichta wife of Tom and MNSE member made it clear that the 2008 picnic would be at the house on Pewaukee Lake. So plans were put in place. The picnic was also a "first" for MNSE newest member John.

However the 2008 picnic was the "last" picnic to be held the Plichta house on Pewaukee Lake. Several weeks before the picnic the news that the house had been sold was being spread around. So in 2009 the MNSE will begin a new era with the summer picnic at a new location.

Again the day of the picnic dawned cloudy and a bit cool. However like the forecast said those clouds gave way to partly cloudy skies. People started arriving around 1:30pm. Since the bocci ball set was in a car arriving a bit later, the surprise game came out. Jarts, yes Jarts or Lawn Darts were being played in the yard. I enjoyed playing Jarts when I was younger. However due to some accidents that game is no longer available and might be illegal. Oh Well it was great to play Jarts again.

While the Jarts games were being played snacks like cheese, crackers, sausage and the like were put out for those who wished to partake. Most members decided to partake in the snacks. Also a fruit plate was put out for those looking for more healthy fare. A comment was made that eating enough watermelon could have the same affect as Viagra. Needless to say the watermelon disappeared quite quickly.

Around 4:30pm the grill was started up and the brats and hamburgers were cooked up for the main meal. Again the array of food available was great. Tater Tot casserole and chips and salsa were available to compliment the burgers and brats. A chocolate cake with "Choo Choo 2008" was the final course of the day.

The fun and frivolity wrapped up around 6:30pm with everyone having had plenty to eat and plenty of fellowship with fellow MNSE members and family members. Hopefully all will be looking forward to 2009 and the 4th Annual MNSE Summer Picnic.