entertaining

november 97

November with its invigorating crisp weather is a month of professional and college football games and homecoming -- a perfect season to entertain friends with a Tailgate Party before the game. A portable party that's both fun and stylish, tailgate parties are usually adult affairs. Remember, presentation is important so think about how you're going to pack, transport, and arrange the food. Bring along tablecloths in your favorite school's colors and crisscross them on the buffet site, whether it really is a tail gate or a portable table or card table. Buy the plastic plates and flatware in colors to match or coordinate. Gather the serving pieces and utensils well in advance. Have the forks and knives wrapped in napkins for easy access.

Mums are plentiful now and come in many colors to complement the spread. Baskets are easy to line with napkins in team colors and decorate with fresh flowers. Fill with bread, jars of mustard, fruit, scones, and the plates and napkin-wrapped flatware.

But don't stop there. If you have been friendly for a while, bring memorabilia from other football games you have gone to together, college days souvenirs, a football to throw around after lunch, school pennants, t-shirts to pull on over sweaters for the diehard fans, and programs, if available. For comfort bring blankets, folding chairs, and large plastic trash bags for quick clean up. Take along a small first-aid kit -- just in case. Remember to keep cold food cold and hot food hot to prevent contamination.

Most of all remember to root for your team, enjoy your company, and ask for volunteers to plan and host the next tail gate party for even more pleasant fall memories.

The menu for this party can all be made in the days before. On the morning of the party, pack the condiments and food as directed. Count your carbos and enjoy the day, your friends, and the game.

Tailgate Party
	Tomato-Basil Soup Herbed Turkey Loaf Sandwiches with Tomato, Lettuce, and Mustard Lentil Sandwiches with Spinach, Tomato, Red Onion, and Low-Fat Feta Scones with Currents Basket of Fresh Fall Fruit Coffee, Mineral Water, Diet Sodas

Other excuses for a tailgate party:

• a day of antique hunting
• attending a country craft fair with friends
• attending a country auction
• trip to an apple orchard for picking
• a day at the part with outdoor games
• after cross-country skiing
• while attending a rodeo