The Romeo gang had lunch today at Finz Restaurant on Pickering Wharf in Salem, MA. A good number showed up at noon time for the lunch which added to the lively discussion around the dinner table.Those in attendance were Paul Girard, Mark Ryan, Jim Terlizzi, Steve Winter, Mike Zapantis, Joe Lapiana, Joe Pignatiello, Joe LoDuca, Ed Deshuytner, Peter Gabriel and John Tweedie.
You can see photos of the group and the area at the link below ……
http://picasaweb.google.com/markryan312/Romeo72710#
The waiter sat us at a table on the outside terrace overlooking the Marina and a contingent of boats. We put three small tables together to accommodate the group of eleven. We never know for certain how many old fogies will show up, but just like fog they all rolled in.
The restaurant was crowded and most every table filled. The waiter was attentive and took our order for drinks which ranged from draft Ales, Largars, Martinis, and Margaritas. We also ordered a few appetizers of Buffalo Calamari which had a hot tangy taste.
After everyone had arrived we ordered the food which included Lobster Roll, Fried Haddock Plate, Blackened Catfish, Blackened Tuna, Seafood Paella and Scallop Salad. The meal was great and we gobbled it all down. After dinner we ordered coffee and shared a few desserts with extra spoons.
As always the conversation was lively and bounced around the table on a variety of topics. Of course, at a long table it is hard to hear what is being said at the other end. However, at my end we talked about the latest changes in health premiums and prescriptions from GIC. We can now get 90 day supply of medication either by mail or right at the drug store for the price of 60 day supply.
Paul and I talked about gardening and the gopher that is eating all my zucchini leaves and the dry weather. Paul also sold his boat since it was hard getting a crew together for sailboat racing and you also grow out of interests.
I heard Joe Lapiana say that he has had a busy June with his Justice of Peace roll and performing marriages. Joe LoDuca talked with Jim Terlizzi about baseball and staying up late to watch the games.
The conversation then turned to John Kerry’s boat and paying $500,000 taxes. Paul said that he bought the boat in Australia for millions, had it repaired in Rhode Island and is paying taxes in Massachusetts. Paul then said it all depends where the boat is moored on July 1st.
Mike Zapantis will now join us for lunch periodically since he has officially retired as Superintendent. However, he is staying on part-time a few days per week, for this coming year until they find a good replacement.
Since the parking was limited around Pickering Wharf, most of us left periodically to check our cars, put in a few more quarters at the meter or move the car to another spot where there was a new two hour parking limit. Some found chalk marks on the tires where the meter-maid was keeping track of how long the car was parked at one spot.
The time went by so quickly and it was 2:30 PM when we left the restaurant and said good bye until next time. Before leaving, we decided to meet next month on the 25th in Newburyport. Jim Terlizzi will email you.
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