Who would’ve thought passing the Friendship Plate to commemorate the 130th birthday year of the Martin-Mitchell Mansion would turn into a dog-eat-dog occasion during a semi-pro baseball game?
Let us back up.
This framed poem, a platter to fill as well as detailed instructions fit inside a carrying case to pass on to the next recipient.
Two weeks ago, the friendly folks at Naper Settlement presented the commemorative Martin-Mitchell Mansion Friendship Plate to me, recognizing my history-loving efforts as the publisher of Positively Naperville and a columnist with the Daily Herald. In his remarks, interim executive director Mike Krol mentioned I also am a “scratch baker” with connections to the outdoor history museum dating back to 1993 when I was employed as public relations manager.
That afternoon, June 29, I was deeply touched to accept a platter of cupcakes from DeEtta’s Bakery on the steps of the mansion as they celebrated the birthday of the splendorous Victorian home of the Martin-Mitchell family built in 1884. The Friendship Plate, designed by Cheri Tompkins who also works at Naper Settlement, depicts the special occasion.
Martin-Mitchell Mansion, the historic centerpiece at Naper Settlement, was built in 1884.
When the cupcakes were gone, my task became to pass the plate to someone else—could be family, friend, neighbor or anyone in Naperville—within 15 days, filled with a special treat or favorite food, to keep friendship traveling throughout the city for the next year and beyond.
Following through on a suggestion by my son who noted there’s nothing more Napervillian in the summer than hot dogs and outdoor events, I agreed it would be fitting to pass the platter to Frank E. Fling, the mascot for the Naperville Jaycees Last Fling. Perhaps we’d even help raise awareness for the annual four-day family festival held over Labor Day weekend all along Jackson Ave. and the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville.
The idea seemed to muster up even more steam when we remembered that the Family Fun Area of Last Fling is held at Naper Settlement.
That’s when I, Stephanie Penick, decided to pass the “Friendship Plate” to Frank E. Fling as Chad Pedigo, Page Hound and Beth DeGeeter relished the moment, too. (See top photo.)
The challenge, however, became finding a time to catch up with Frank E. Fling, already busy with many social engagements to promote the end-of-summer event.
That’s where Jaycees James Bernicky, Jodi Bernicky, Tom Manno and Chad Pedigo entered the picture. They led us to the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex on July 13 where to DuPage County Hounds were playing the Northwest Indiana Oilmen—and Naperville’s Frank E. Fling was making a guest appearance.
When we arrived, Frank E. Fling joined by the Hounds’ mascot, Page, gave us thumbs up as they prepared to run the bases. Hot diggity dog!
As spectators in the stands watched the mascots run and dance, 2014 Last Fling Chairman Pedigo served treats to members of the Naperville Jaycees in attendance.
The rules of the Martin-Mitchell Mansion 130th Birthday “Pass the Plate” Celebration were explained to Frank E. Fling.
With obvious enthusiasm, the Jaycees mascot ran off with head-shaking agreement.
Pedigo volunteered to coordinate passing on the plate, filling it with tasty treats as another way to celebrate the spirit of the service organization.
Lauren Adas and Beth DeGeeter finished off the treats so the empty Friendship Platter could be filled and passed by Frank E. Fling to someone else in Naperville.
“On behalf of Frank E. Fling and all the Jaycees, we are honored to be the second recipients of the Martin Mitchell Mansion Friendship Plate,” said Pedigo. “I know Frank E. Fling will unleash this honor by sharing it with all our fellow Jaycees, especially since Naper Settlement is one of our partners for the event.”
By the way, the Ronald McDonald House in DuPage County was the charity of choice for Sunday’s game. Fifty percent of the proceeds will go to the charity. The game ended with the Hounds 5-3 victory over the Oilmen.
And Frank E. Fling indicated he already has an appropriate choice when it’s his turn the pass the friendship plate within the next 15 days.
“Pass the Plate” Project Organizer Nancy Smith at Naper Settlement encourages recipients to share their experiences via photos, Facebook and Twitter. Cheers to fun and friendship!
—Stephanie Penick, PN
