Pomo Bluffs

A cool escape from the hot interior.

Frank Grasse Dog Park

Named for a local veterinarian, this dog park is the most recent development in the community resource corridor along East Commercial Street in Willits. Comprised of two separate enclosures, it sits between the Roots of Motive Power display and demonstration area, and the skate park. Even in a rural community, a public space for non-farmers is a welcome opportunity to socialize whether you have four legs or two. The late Dr. Grasse wrote a popular book of vet stories under the pseudonym Charlie Freed http://www.amazon.com/Vet-Tails-Charlie-Freed/dp/1606045040 .

Navarro Beach in Fog

The beach at the mouth of the Navarro River, engulfed by fog, offers refuge for campers escaping the inland heat. Part of the State Parks system, the property includes an old inn, awaiting restoration. Out in the river on partially submerged tree trunks, one cormorant tries to sun himself among his fellows.

Meanwhile, Back at the Engine House...

People kept warm any number of ways at the Holiday Express event. I'm always amazed at folks who seem to have shirt-sleeve metabolisms no matter what the temperature, especially kids. The hot chocolate was the best I ever tasted.

Even in the cold, the homemade peppermint ice cream was irresistible.

Quiet Pastime

I spotted a friend of mine enjoying the company of other chess enthusiasts on a recent evening at a local late night eatery. There are so many hidden cohort groups in every little town, and it's nice to see.

Samba in the Park Picnic

Too many pictures today! I hope you can see the fun folks were having. Ardella's served up the BBQ and pie, while bands such as SambaDa played for the happy families.

"Newgrass" Festival and BBQ with Joe Craven

Just a salad of images from a hot afternoon in a shady park (Recreation Grove), with great food and fun music.


















The event went from 2 to 8pm, but I caught Isaac Frankel and Joe Craven (of the David Grisman Quintet) as I chowed down on a BBQ'd brisket sandwich and a cherry shaved ice. YUM!

Fourth of July Fairway

A selection from the fairway during the Frontier Days Rodeo on Saturday: