March 12, 1999

Dear Confrere et Consoeurs:

"There has never been a feast like this in Pittsburgh." Chevalier Dr. Freddie Fu. Both Freddie and I are pleased to announce our next Chaine extravaganza, The Royal Emperor's Mandarin Banquet Feast at The China Palace Restaurant, Sewickley PA. Plan on arriving Sunday, April 25 at 6:00 p.m.

China Palace CEO and our host Mike Chen, Head Chef Chao Hwa Chen, Assistant Chef Pao Chang and Dr. Freddie & Hilda Fu have planned a culinary experience that many have read about, but few have experienced. We're not doing egg rolls and fried rice here. After our reception, we're doing 14 courses and 9 wines. Five of these courses are entree's! Pace yourself. You don't want to be too full to enjoy this spectacular evening of foods, carefully selected wines, and many sensory surprises.

Sensory surprises? Absolutely. Chinese culture goes back thousands of years. Our Mandarin Menu has evolved from Emperors of many dynasties served by China's best chefs commanding the best of all the food of China. Freddie tells us that one of our courses, a serving of Shark's Fin Soup, sells for $50.00 in Hong Kong. Freddie is bringing special tea for our Traditional Banquet Toast. If you can find this tea, 3 oz. cost $100! Our Mandarin Menu is not spicy, but definitely exclusive. "I have seen feasts like this in Hong Kong and Singapore. Closer to here, maybe Toronto." Hilda Fu.

You will experience elaborate presentations, ornate food carvings, and fire breathing dragons. You will experience the Ceremony and Customs of a Chinese Banquet explained to us by Mike Chen. You will have your choice of chopsticks and flatware! So come and gather around our tables and enjoy a truly unique Chaine event. Freddie and Mike assure us that this is going to be a real treat.

This will be a black tie event, with decorations in order. May I please have your reservations by April 14. Address them to my attention to avoid any post office confusion. The cost is one hundred twenty dollars ($120.00) per person per member couple, and one hundred thirty dollars ($130.00) per guest. Seating is limited. Guests will be accommodated on a space available basis.

This is going to be a good one, so don't wait to respond. If there are any questions, contact me. Otherwise, see you at The China Palace.

Vive la Chaine!

Peter J. Hanowich
Bailli de Pittsburgh
Conseiller L'Ordre Mondial
Chambellan Provincal