2008 International "Foodstock"
6th Annual International Food Festival
On Sunday afternoon May 4, 2008, at the beautiful Malibu home of Tom and Stephanie Loo, our Rotary Club of Santa Monica held its 6th International Food Festival. Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, on a glorious sunny day, more than 200 members, family and friends were treated to what a former District Governor said was the best event in the district this year. Attendees feasted on homemade dishes and beverages which seemingly arrived from over 30 countries across the globe.
This year’s “Foodstock,” as it was appropriately named, will provide long-lasting memories of the great food, drink and music. The food was as tasty as it was impressive -- where else would one find two different ethnic dishes consisting of a whole lamb (Mid-eastern style) and an Chinese suckling pig – all in the same place! Great dishes were cooked on the spot such as Michael Morowati’s lamb and chicken shish kebabs. Beverages from around the world plus two live bars quenched everyone’s thirst. Ah, the music.
It was special this year because it featured our own Rotary family with Monika White and her group playing wonderful Balkan folk music and a series of arias sung by our own Savi Labensart. Savi organized what turned out to be a wonderful operaretic recital by Savi and tenor, Don Squillace, (along with accompanist Frank Fetta) who sang famous pieces from La Boheme, Don Pasquale, Gianni Schicchi, Tosca, Turdadout . It was probably the only time our guests put down their forks during the day!
But any Rotary Food Festival would not be complete without children and our Roteractors from Santa Monica College. The children had their own amusement park as well, expectedly wading in the pond for mischievous enjoyment. The Roteractors provided much needed help, and at the same time told the Club this event was the highlight of their year and a reward for their active members.
In all, like the famous Woodstock, those who attend our Foodstock left with memories of great food, drink, music and fellowship that was our Club’s objective. A special thanks goes to the amazing International Food Festival organizing committee members for putting together a fabulous, memorable event! Committee members include:
| Tom, Stephanie and Ryan Loo | ||
| Steve Alexis | Barbara Bishop | Bret Carter |
| Susan Dawson | Nicole Pratt | Holly Gustlin |
| Charles Hart | Karim Jaude | Marv Levin |
| Michael Morowati | Sally Pai | Lynette Shishido |
| Tish Tisherman | Monika White | Oded Wolfe |
And last, but not least, thanks for the amazing generosity of Tom and Stephanie Loo, who shared their lovely home with us once again and provided the stunning ocean-view backdrop for another successful International Festival.
Some initial pictures, check back later for the full story..... |
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Tom Loo and our International Food Festival Committee did it again - a FANTASTIC event!!! |
| Folk Music by Monika White, Roger
Goodman and Monika's twin sister |
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Spyros preparing food |
| Melissa Dagodag and Judy Neveau
having a good time |
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Mary Ellen and Joe Gonzales relaxing after their tamale station set up |
| Savi Labensart and Don Squillance
singing an operatic aria |
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Ryan Loo serving Pop Corn |
| Jill Rau, Jason Hymes (seated),
Sally Pai, Alex Hymes and Tina Lin (standing) |
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Marilyn and Paul Leoni, Sally and Allan Young |
| Dick and Char Lawrence, Robert and Jeanne Segal |
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Feeding the koi... |
| Alex Hymes, Carolyn Yaeger and Ryan Loo |
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Can't wait until next year!