Over 80 Rotarians and their guests enjoyed fine food and wine at the Rotary Club of Plainfield-North Plainfield’s Ninth Annual Wine Tasting Dinner at Giovanna’s Restaurant in Plainfield on November 7 this year.

“The dinner is one of two primary fundraisers for our scholarship program,” said Linda Persichino, president of the local club.  “With silent auction items available during the early part of the dinner, our guests enjoyed the opportunity to bid on gift certificates to local merchants, gift baskets, and other fine selections.”

Rotarians and their friends tasted fine wines supplied by Wine Country, located on Route 22 in North Plainfield.  “This is the fifth year that Wine Country has helped us offer the event, and we were extremely happy with their wine selections,” said Ms. Pershino.  “The favorites were the Little Matteo Rosso Toscana, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, and the Mas de Bazan Crianza, a red with a combination of grapes that gives great freshness and balance.”

“Giovanna’s food was exceptional, with the flounder Florentine getting rave reviews.  The staff was helpful, courteous, and really helped everyone have a great time, making the evening a resounding success.”

Proceeds from the dinner will help fund the club’s scholarship program for Plainfield High School and North Plainfield High School.  For a number of years, the Rotary Club has awarded between $2,000 and $3,000 to graduating seniors at each of the two schools.

The event, chaired by club member Bill Parenti, was a success due in part to the combination of fine wines, great food, and friendly but competitive bidding on the Silent Auction items.  Bob Popola of Berkeley Heights, who effectively worked the bid list to win the VIP Honda auto detailing gift certificate, saw the value in the certificate and in the cause that he supported.  “My wife Terry and I come to this event every year,” said Mr. Popola.  “We enjoy getting together with our friends, relaxing, and supporting the Rotary Club.  Getting my car detailed just makes it all the better.” 

The local Rotary club’s members include business and professional women and men from Plainfield, North Plainfield, and the surrounding area.  Membership in Rotary is by invitation, and is open to those who seek opportunities to be of service to the local and to the international community.

For more information about the Rotary Club of Plainfield-North Plainfield, or to inquire about membership, visit their website at www.rotarypnp.org.

Giovanna’s Restaurant manager Angelo Balsamo accepts a Certificate of Appreciation from Michael Townley, secretary for the Rotary Club of Plainfield-North Plainfield at its 9^th Annual Wine Tasting Dinner.  Giovanna’s was recognized for its commitment to the Rotary Club’s program of service to the community.

 

 

Guests at the Rotary Club of Plainfield’s 9^th Annual Wine Tasting Dinner listen as club president Linda Persichino reviews the list of Silent Auction items before closing the bidding.

 

 

Guests at the Rotary Club of Plainfield-North Plainfield’s 9^th Annual Wine Tasting Dinner included Michele and Paul Cascais of Mendham, flanked by Connie and Mike Iannella of New Providence.