The Infamous Clayton Club
Last Sunday, the girl and I took in the 6th annual Clayton Club Chili Cook-off in Clayton, California.
Acting as my photographer, the girl busied herself snapping photos for this story as I ambled about “the club,” chatting up some of the prettier contestants, and hungrily eying the 17 crock pots of bubbling chili.
My regular readers reader knows that I’ve written once or twice about my home town of Clayton. Well, I would be dreadfully remiss in my “representin” duties if I did not blog about our annual Oktoberfest.
This year’s Oktoberfest was held on the weekend of September 26-27. Yea, I know. Don’t ask me. I guess all the weekends in October were spoken for. Whatever. In fairness though, that other Oktoberfest actually begins mid-late September, and ends in early October, so I guess we Claytonites just decided to jump right into the middle of the whole brew-ha-ha. Get it??
*crickets*
I spent the better part of last Tuesday’s lunch hour checking out the Concord Farmers’ Market in Todos Santos Plaza.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past several years, you’ve probably noticed these outdoor grocery stores popping up all over the place. In addition to Concord you can hit Farmers’ Markets in Clayton, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill and dozens of other Bay Area cities.
(photo courtesy of Clayton.com- All other photos by Joe Romano)
I recently introduced you to Clayton, CA, a small town in the shadow of Mt. Diablo.
After many years of political wrangling, Clayton finally managed to move forward with its plans for The Grove Park, which is now a focal point for many of Clayton’s downtown activities.
Situated between Main St., Center St. and old Marsh Creek Rd, the park is home to what was once a huge orchard of Eucalyptus trees, referred to by locals simply as “the grove.” As a kid I spent many a 4th of July in the grove. Residents would gather there after the traditional 4thof July parade to enjoy barbequed corn-on-the-cob, hot dogs and watermelon. There were greased pole climbing contests and other great activities. Nowadays the grove is home to a local farmers market and some fabulous evening concerts. Saturday night Lisa and I took in local act, Mamaluke.
Billed as one of “the Bay Area’s premier classic rock dance bands,” Mamaluke was also one of two finalists in KFOX radio’s “Last Band Standing” competition. Adding to their local roots, two members, lead singer Kenny Byers and guitarist Chris Rossi, graduated from Clayton Valley High School. And, to drill-down even further on the local slant, I was in Mr. Almond’s 5thgrade class with Chris Rossi, and worked at Skipolini’s Pizza with Kenny Byars. Did any of this earn me a guest vocal during last night’s show? Performance fail!
Nevertheless, take one warm summer night, mix in a pitcher of sangrias and one of Skipolini’s famous pies, and top off with some great rock and roll; result - a guaranteed great time. All of Clayton’s local eateries literally surround The Grove, and all of them offer food to go. Or you can even save a few bucks and bring your own picnic.
There’s also the Clayton Store on the south end of the park for those last minute snack and beverage purchases. I’d suggest arriving a little early to stake out a nice spot on the lawn. Throw out a blank, have a beverage and a snack, read and enjoy the sunshine before show time.
The Grove Park also has a playground and plenty of room to run, so Concerts in the Grove is definitely a kid-friendly event.
To check out upcoming concerts, click here –> Concerts in the Grove – 2009 <— there.
The Grove Park
Main St. and Marsh Creek Rd.
Clayton, CA, 94517
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