Special benefit for Child Shelter International

It was one of those beautiful early autumn days in Petaluma, perfect for enticing folk outdoors to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment. The occasion in question was the brand new CSI fundraising event, ‘An Epicurean Afternoon’, held last September at the Petaluma Foundry Wharf. The scene had the grandeur of a garden party; elegantly decorated tables laden with appetizing selections from local food and beverage companies.

A smorgasbord of superb California cuisine, coupled with local wines and beer greeted attendees. Local vendors who contributed included: Sonoma Valley Portworks, Lagunitas Brewery, Cowgirl Creamery, Zoe’s charcuterie, Della Fattoria, Irma LaTage, Point Reyes Bakery, Three Twins ice cream, and Kika’s Treats. A big hit was ‘all the fresh oysters you can eat’ from Hog Island Oyster Company, and while the shucking rate was upbeat, so was the tempo of the jigs and reels provided by members of the SF Scottish Fiddlers.

As the evening progressed, more treats ensued in the form of desserts as cool and creamy as the gentle jazz sounds from duo Alison Odell and Julian Smedley. An enthusiastic group of youth volunteers, Walker Livingston, Claire Sawyer, Zachary, Matthew and Benjamin Borglin, and Zoe Orenstein, sold raffle tickets, served food, and helped with clean up and set up. It was so satisfying to see young people adding to the cheerful atmosphere. An attentive, nourished audience lingered into the evening until shadows drifted across the river to close this bucolic event.

The good cheer and generosity of all who made this inaugural event possible was very encouraging. We are so grateful to all our vendors and sponsors who not only donated their fine products but who also stayed to participate in and enjoy the outdoor fete. It was three months of busy planning, organizing, and coordinating, mixed in with some anxiety and uncertainty around the outcome. We are hoping to repeat this event in early fall of 2011, and hope it will be an even greater success.