Jan Miller and Mary Naab served up a fat dish of humble pie Thursday.
Both Miller and Naab headed the efforts to satisfy about 100 guests with delicious meals every Thursday at Morton Rotary in the Knights of Columbus Hall.
Now, after about five years of preparing a noon dish for Rotarians, they get to take a break. But, it does not seem as if these two are excited about leaving.
What this duo did, week after week, could be considered an incredible feat on many levels — particularly in the catering business.
When it comes to food, it is hard to keep people happy, let alone 100 of them.
For Miller and Naab, a feigned smile never developed. The two always had gigantic smiles and always laughed as if they were serving guests at a stand-up comedy tour.
Their service was outstanding and they catered to every individual’s preferences. But, the best part about watching them do their job was noticing how their attitudes and personalities rubbed off on everyone seated at Rotary on Thursdays.
Both Miller and Naab were recognized, graciously, by Rotarians. As the two accepted gifts of thanks, they couldn't help but wipe a couple tears from their eyes.
"We were never treated as hired work," Naab said. "We always felt like we were part of the family."
And, they were — to many Rotarians, a lunch not served by these two was like having father cook once a year when mom was on vacation.
When the meetings adjourned, the leftovers were hand-delivered to elderly residents in Morton.
Both Miller and Naab were humbled by the outpouring of appreciation Thursday.
Even as they sat to talk with me, they looked behind them as others picked up the dishes and cleaned tables — something the two did every Thursday. They wanted to help, but nobody would let them.
Naab begins working full-time with the village, and Miller said she is not sure what is next.
But, the two who gave Mortonites the best halftime feast on Thursdays said they will always remember working for the people for whom they have a lot of respect.
When Rotary moves from the Knights of Columbus to the Ashland House next year, there is going to be a void that will take awhile for Rotarians to adjust.
On behalf of Morton Rotary and the goodwill for which it serves — Miller and Naab are prime examples.
