We, the honourable members of CASACC, found ourselves venturing to Oakley on a gorgeous June day to partake in this month’s celebrations. Ultimately headed to Baba India, as tradition holds the group enjoyed a few pick-me-ups prior to filling our stomachs with Indian cuisine. With a number of enjoyable and convenient watering holes near Baba, the President selected the Oak Tavern to sound off the evening. The teeming but not over-crowded atmosphere led to lively conversation and an enjoyable start to the evening.

 

Unfortunately, the group was required to discuss the unsatisfactory reasoning for some member absences. Namely member Butler noted he was required to work from home this week as a result of back trouble. Member McAuliffe logically pointed out, “Does not member Butler need to eat dinner regardless of back pain?” The President also noted member Holley could not attend because of vacation. We questioned his awareness that CASACC meets the last Thursday of each month. Maybe he was not aware Outlook can display conflicts?

 

Regardless, the group happily strolled to Baba India were we were cheerfully greeted and sat prestigiously in the center of the restaurant. Oddly, when the time arrived to order poppadoms the term “complimentary” did not seem to be understood by the restaurant staff. The President was bothered by this fact as the term was well understood at the time of reservation. Ultimately the staff bent and observed the request but with an awkwardly small number of poppadoms. Later realizing the Club ventured to the restaurant to actually eat, more complimentary delights were provided.

 

Only a small amount of business required attention this meeting. Members Butler and Poddar were issued yellow cards for late or no cancellations. Member Cable also spared himself from a chopping block vote by enjoying our company. Therefore the most important order of business was regarding member Murray’s membership. Clearly this evening’s group was wise, and a unanimous vote was received to extend his membership in CASACC.

 

The crucial toast was then paid to Alan, and the group placed their orders. Conversation quickly turned to the outstanding adjustments to our Constitution and eagerness to see the changes in writing. Member Tyson was saluted for bearing this high honor but a sense of impatience regarding the revised document was brewing in the air. Provisional members Kaplan and Leonard also noted the legitimacy of the CASACC website paying tribute to member Taggart. However, the devil is in the details, and another member noted the link to the March 2016 report directs users to an incorrect month. Multiple harumphs were heard as the majority agreed to issue member Taggart a yellow card for this error.

 

Then in a rare occurrence, all food was delivered simultaneously, and members continued their critiques. Presentation and portions were well received, but the heat was a point of concern. As provisional member Leonard stated, “If I’m not crying, it’s not as hot as it should be.” He ordered a 6 out of 6. Sadly, there were no tears.

 

Ratings were held until checks received, and overall the highlights were as follows:

• Flavor (sans heat) was enjoyed
• The lively number of patrons in the restaurant put at ease any concerns of food poisoning
• Everyone received what they requested and at the same time
• Spectacular naan
• Ease of parking was noted by multiple members, specifically member cars were not towed while enjoying the Tavern prior to dinner
• No check issues
• Prompt service
• A bar that could please Cleveland post Cavs victory

 

The bad:

• Rising heat was reported by multiple members but in general, heat was unsatisfactory
• The ceiling tiles brought into question what activities occur in the restaurant
• No swords or elephants

 

Middle of the road:

• General atmosphere
• Poppadoms and chutney
• (Bathrooms were undocumented)

 

When the scores were tallied, Baba India received a respectful 7.19 but was unable to steal the 2016 crown. As some final orders of business, the group voted on provisional members Kaplan and Leonard. A fight to the death for membership was originally planned, but both members proved to be worthy additions throughout the evening. They were unanimously voted in.

 

Member Lukas then volunteered to give the highest honor of Presidency a second shot. The members of CASACC look forward to his leadership. As a final post jacket-passing act, I’m obligated to note member McAuliffe snuck out of Baba with a dessert.

 

The evening then proceeded to conclude back at the Oak Tavern reflecting on the enjoyable restaurant experience and great company of the evening.