Out and About in the neighborhood
I was enjoying a conversation with West Won Bakery’s CFO, John Gallardo, when Veterans Home resident, Israel J. Henderson, asked if I was a Yountville local. When I answered in the affirmative, he offered me one of his canvases, which Israel creates as a Creative Cellular Abstract Pour titled “Hummingbird.” I think that Yountville and the Veterans Home can claim their own Jackson Pollock, especially since he’s easily identifiable in his paint-splattered suit as he strolls about town.
Writing about John reminds me that he’s part of the driving force bringing us the Yountville Certified Farmers Market every Thursday and Sunday morning in the Ranch Market, Too north parking lot. While I’m a big fan of his multi-grain bread, I’m now addicted to his neighbor’s Chamí cacao bars. Who can resist something that is rico en polifenoles?
Myrna David did a fine job covering the recent Pride Party in Veterans Park, but while I was only there briefly, I enjoyed my chat with Eric and Peggy Knight. My short stay was because I had committed to celebrating the birthday of my ex-neighbor Toni Wilson at RO just down the street. Toni, Pam Williams, Julie Worthington and I agreed it was a fine venue for acknowledging another trip around the sun.
Because the membership has dwindled, and my wine tasting group (someone has to do it) doesn’t meet every month anymore, each outing is particularly special, and especially so when it’s in town. Shirley Fraser’s Bella Vista Clubhouse was a delightful venue for a tasting of summertime rosés, and the bag lunch following allowed us to linger and enjoy the company that has been such a treat since 1981.
Because I’ve lived in the valley for more than 50 years, I always expect to see someone I know from my first neighborhoods, or my daughter’s schools, or other organizations when I shop in Napa. So, it was with a chuckle that I said “hello” to fellow Yountvillan, Ranndy Piña also shopping at Nob Hill.
There were no fireworks in town on theFourth of July, but that didn’t stop the town from putting on another great event for residents and visitors alike, with music, food, information booths and just a good, get-together time. I invited my ex-neighbor, Debbie Laratta to enjoy the afternoon, and when I saw Kate O’Reilly and Adrianne Verdera, I thought, “small world” since Kate was a hostess at what was Piatti restaurant (now RO) where Deb’s sister, Donna Scala was the chef and Donna’s husband, Giovanni Scala was the manager. I guess that ties in with the sad news of the death of Claude Rouas, Piatti founder and father of local Angele restaurateur Bettina Rouas.
I introduced myself to Cal Fire guys, Quinn Nadeau, Paul Bossard and Pat Everett manning their information booth who allowed me to snap their photo for the Sun, and said hello to Caren Cole, who recently returned from a quick trip to Paris, and Rose Lopez selling tasty wines at the Town of Yountville booth. While enjoying the cover tunes of the band, Desperate Men, Liz Moffitt, Pam Willams, Deb and I met a Napa attendee, Dave Loomis, but the local angle is that he’s a Piedmont High School mate of Yountville’s “Social Maven” Karen Thurling. And I wasn’t surprised to see Peter O’Brian cutting a rug on the dance floor.
Because Facebook and Nextdoor keep me informed of local happenings, I wandered over to The CoopSaturday morning to hear local chanteuse Robin McKee-Cant add music to the enjoyment of the food stand customers. When I asked someone if I could join him at his shady table, and introduced myself, it turned out to be Fred Espinosa, Yountville Fit assistant manager and trainer, who is happy to be working in his hometown and not commuting like his brother from Santa Rosa to San Jose and beyond. I had to admit that my health club dues are more of a donation at this time, but promised to physically take part “real soon.”
Horse race fan, Charles Ainsworth stopped to say hello, reminding me of my silly response to “Do you want to leave a tip?” Yes, four in the fourth! Fred’s departure made room for my neighbor, Linda Rowland, and a new acquaintance, Pin Pin Shi, whom Linda described as an “excellent Tai Chi instructor.” I promised to attend class on Saturday. Please someone, hold me to it!
Cindy and Guy Morgan came by to support their friend and neighbor, Robin, and numerous friends and family arrived with the Coop’s founder, Lindsay Hoopes. Holly Hansen and Jim Massey were there to purchase veggies and snacks. Iren Jenny was there for the zucchini and camaraderie. What a great idea of Lindsay’s to bring live music by the talented Robin. I hope it continues.
Ciao,
Susan
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