<bt>Jean's Party. Over the years, it has become known simply as "Jean's party." To be sure, there is nothing simple about this annual Old Town tour de force. When Jean Oseth, who is affectionately known by many of us as the "Queen of Duke Street," hosts her holiday fare, you has better prepare for a sumptuous feast. And for those of you who enjoy an occasional drink as well — look out!
Jean hangs out in a lovely, early 19th century treasure on Duke, but her party — which attracts many of the Old Port's movers and shakers — has been outgrown by the crowd. But that's OK. Jean switched her venue a few years ago to the venerable Lee-Fendall House on North Washington Street. And what a wonderful place to spend a few hours on a nippy but dry Sunday afternoon with old friends.
When Jean entertains, it is by no means a solo act. She brings in the entire family, and the extended family! Daughters Julie and Celia and sons-in-law (we call them the twin "Bobs") do heavy duty in making the old Lee Corners house sparkle, hosting and greeting. A few of the Old Towners spotted at the elegant affair were Andrea and Tom Dimond, Betty Packer, Fred and Susan Morhart, Anne Paul, Admiral and Sally Masterson, Dan Chapman, Chuck Trozzo and Gail Rothrock and Meredith Mercer.
"Jean's party" lives. Hopefully forever!
Happy birthday, Patsy - Would you believe that our former mayor and current state Sen. Patsy Ticer is turning 40? Well don't, because Patsy is a wee bit beyond that (but not much). At any rate, Patsy's family — backed up by a few hundred of her nearest and dearest — will gather at La Bergerie in Old Town on Jan. 9 to appropriately fete this remarkable woman who has done a great deal to maintain our community as a great place to live. Happy birthday, Patsy, and may your backhand continue to thrive!
A Lyceum Lecture - The Lyceum is offering a tea and lecture program in conjunction with the special exhibition, "An Alexandria Legacy: The Howard W. Smith, Jr. Silver Collection." Join Jean Taylor Federico, director of the Office of Historic Alexandria, for a presentation about American decorative silver. This tea and lecture is open to the general public on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2 to 4 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 17, 2 to 4 p.m. Call 703-838-4994 to register or for more information.
Gadsby's Tavern Hosts Civil War Ball - Want to enjoy an evening from the 1860s in the historic Gadsby's Tavern ballroom on Saturday, Jan. 29, from 8 to 11 p.m.? Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. for dance warm-ups. This event will include live music, dance instruction, and period desserts. Tickets are $30 per person in advance and $40 at the door. Period attire, either civilian or military, is encouraged.
In preparation for the Ball, Civil War dance classes will be offered at Gadsby's from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Jan 12, 19, and 26 with Dance Master Corky Palmer. Dance instruction will include the waltz, polka, Virginia Reel, and more. Classes are $12 each or $30 for the series.
Advance reservations for both the ball and dance classes are highly recommended. Call 703-838-4242 to register or for more information. On-line tickets are available at www.gadsbystavern.org.
<1b>— Bob Feldkamp