By Mary-Justine Lanyon

(Photos by Mary-Justine Lanyon)

The verdict is in: The folks who attended Steaks at the Lake – the fundraiser hosted by the Crestline-Lake Gregory Rotary Club – had a fabulous time.

The guests enjoyed a delicious dinner of steaks, baked potatoes, salad and green beans with cake for dessert. Beer and wine were available for purchase.

There was initially some question as to whether the event could go forward since Goodwin & Son’s Market – which has traditionally provided the steak – is currently closed due to the roof having collapsed during the winter storms. However, event chair Derek Leistra worked with Mike Johnstone, the vice president and general manager of Goodwin’s, and was able to purchase the steaks through him.

Deborah Fancett and Karyn and Rudy Westervelt (standing) with their friends – Jeanette and Shane Lesovsky and Shane’s mother, Wendy – who traveled to Crestline from Temecula for Steaks at the Lake.

Goodwin’s also once again provided staff members who served the food to the guests. Chef Fred Keville oversaw the preparation of the side dishes in the kitchen while Leistra and fellow Rotarian Bill Mellinger manned the grilles outdoors.

No fundraiser would be complete without silent auction items. The members of the Crestline-Lake Gregory Rotary Club rounded up a variety of donations from a vintage Lake Arrowhead clock to a unique wine caddy. Bidding was fast and furious, especially when the last call was issued.

Highland Music Company has rapidly become the favorite band of these events.

The dance floor got a good workout as folks felt compelled to get moving to the classic rock played by the Highland Music Company, which has become the favorite band of these events.

The San Moritz Lodge was filled with the sounds of happy people dining on great steaks and side dishes.

Proceeds from Steaks at the Lake benefit the club’s community projects, like the three EarlyAct Clubs at Valley of Enchantment Elementary School, the backpack giveaway (done in conjunction with the Lions Club), the community Thanksgiving dinner and the peace garden the club is currently working on with members of the Mountain Communities Boys & Girls Club.

Watch for news of Lobsters at the Lake, to be held this fall.