Mediaboss Marketing

By Ken Gordon

The Columbus Dispatch Saturday June 2, 2012 5:35 AM

Club members, from left: Sharon Bobel, Lyn Ellsesser, Maureen Flynn and Janet Davies

On a recent weekday afternoon in the Clintonville neighborhood, Lyn Ellsesser parked her Mini in front of a yellow house with a Union Jack flag stirring in the breeze.

Then, within minutes of being welcomed inside by homeowner Maureen Flynn, she joined a half-dozen other members of the Columbus British Expats club who were what else? sipping tea in the kitchen.

Our answer to everything is Ill put the kettle on, Ellsesser, 61, said of the choice of beverage, which true Britons always serve with milk added no questions asked.

They had gathered to plan a party that Flynn will host today, the start of a four-day Diamond Jubilee celebration in Britain marking the 60-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Since the monarchy was established in 1066, Elizabeth has become just the second leader to reach the milestone. (Queen Victoria held the throne for 63 years and 216 days, from 1837 to 1901.)

So, overseas, the British are celebrating with bonfires, church bells, street parties, a 1,000-ship flotilla on the River Thames and on Tuesday a procession and service of thanksgiving.

At the Flynn house tonight, perhaps 50 central Ohio expats and relatives will toast the occasion eating British foods, drinking Pimms (a British version of sangria), singing traditional songs and playing games such as croquet.

Continue reading here:
For expats, club a home away from home