The 2010 Northern California Commemorative Cup Competition was held yesterday under sunny skies after a few nail-biting days of rainy weather. There were 19 teams representing, San Francisco, Willits, Lamorinda, Petaluma, Healdsburg and of course San Rafael. A lot of intense competition ensued as the various teams fought to have their name engraved on the perpetual trophy, all of whom seemed to enjoy the diversity of engaging in play with some of those not usually able to travel to San Rafael. Five games were played with the over all winners being: Pascal Gravier and Teri Sirico. There was a tie for the second place spot between the teams of Tino Lofaro/Errin McTaggert and Ken del Gobo/Tamara Efron. The players decided upon a 9 point play off, and Ken and Tamara walked off with a surprising and exciting 9-4 victorious effort over last years defending champions to win second place.
Thanks to all who worked to make the tournament a success. Thank you to the people who helped groom the courts in the weeks before and very special bottom-of-our-heart appreciation to Jean and Emily Etcheverry for taking the appearance and maintenance duties of the courts under their wing.
To watch the slideshow of yesterdays activities, click here
Monday, March 15, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
SUNDAY March 14 - Northern CA Commemorative Cup.
THE COMPETITION WILL TAKE PLACE AS PLANNED
*****REMEMBER DAYLIGHT SAVINGS STARTS*****
*****REMEMBER DAYLIGHT SAVINGS STARTS*****
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m.
Select Mixed Doublettes (1 man & 1 woman). 5 games (swiss system)
First Place: Plaques and names engraved on the perpetual trophy.
Second Place: Plaques
Bring your own lunch. Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
First Place: Plaques and names engraved on the perpetual trophy.
Second Place: Plaques
Bring your own lunch. Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Marin supervisors go forward with $83 million public safety building
Plans for an $83 million public safety complex at the Marin Civic Center moved ahead Tuesday as county supervisors asked firms willing to design, develop and help finance the facility to step forward.
Although a staff report asserted the county has not yet "chosen a specific site location" for the complex, attention is focused on a dog park across from the Civic Center.
Supervisor Steve Kinsey said the county's call for development proposals was a "really significant step in the most significant capital budget the board will do this decade."
Supervisor Hal Brown added, however, that "there's a lot of steps to be taken before we tell someone to start hammering out there."
Officials contend a facility that meets safety standards is crucial to accommodate continuing operations during emergencies, including an earthquake.
The dog park site is the county's "preferred alternative," although other areas, including the "Christmas tree" lot site at the Civic Center and "The Pit" parking lot farther south, as well as sites away from the Civic Center, will be studied, according to David Speer, facilities planning manager at the Civic Center.
"We haven't solidified the site yet," said Supervisor Susan Adams. "You're going to be seriously looking at some off-campus sites," Supervisor Judy Arnold told Speer.
"It's going to be a challenging project, whichever site is chosen," Kinsey said.
Click Here for the complete article.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
La Boule D'Or Tournament
SUNDAY MARCH 7- 2010
CONCOURSE 3/3 SELECT TEAMS (2 MEN'S AND 1 WOMEN)
ENTRY FEE $7 REWARDS: 90% OF ENTRY FEE PLUS $ 50 ADDED
END OF REGISTRATION 10 AM - STARTING TIME 10:15
- COFFEE AND CAKE IN THE MORNING
- FOR INFO CALL H (650) 755-2391) OR CELL 650-483-0732
- e-mail jkrauer@aol.com
CONCOURSE 3/3 SELECT TEAMS (2 MEN'S AND 1 WOMEN)
ENTRY FEE $7 REWARDS: 90% OF ENTRY FEE PLUS $ 50 ADDED
END OF REGISTRATION 10 AM - STARTING TIME 10:15
- COFFEE AND CAKE IN THE MORNING
- FOR INFO CALL H (650) 755-2391) OR CELL 650-483-0732
- e-mail jkrauer@aol.com
Monday, February 22, 2010
Pétanque- A sport of Passsion?
France - Shoplifting pétanque player becomes repeat offender
Even if you have only a passing interest in France and things French, the chances are you’ll have heard of pétanque.
It’s a game played by thousands in this country and as with many a sport it can inflame the passions of both participants and spectators.
Unfortunately for one particular young man he took his enthusiasm for it a step too far by stealing a couple of treasured "boules" or balls and getting caught in the act, not once, but twice.
Maybe a word or two on pétanque at this point as even though it’s an international sport, it’s not exactly one of the best known around the world.
There are plenty of better well-informed sources out there describing what it is and where it originates, but succinctly (and therefore probably not entirely accurately) put it’s a sort of French bowls.
Just to emphasise the popularity of pétanque here in France, it ranks as the eighth most played sport in terms of active club membership with apparently more than 362,000 registered players.
There’s a federation governing the sport in this country, championships broken down by sex and age, and of course a French cup.
In fact to find out everything and anything you might ever have wanted to know (or not, as the case might be) there’s the bible of the game available annually in the form of Le Guide Boulisme.
Anyway back to the man who was caught stealing those boules.
The 33-year-old was arrested in the southwestern French town of Dax earlier this week as he attempted to lift a couple of them worth €199 ($US 269) from a store.
No mean feat really as they usually weigh anything between 650 and 800 grammes each and so aren’t exactly the easiest things to sneak out of a shop without being noticed.
Apparently it wasn’t the first time he was "caught in the act" according to the regional daily, Sud Ouest.
He was stopped just last month committing a similar theft, albeit for the smaller amount of €163 ($US220).
All of which means, says the paper, that when his case comes to court he’ll be treated as a repeat offender and runs the risk of not just facing a fine but also a sentence.
And his defence? Well he claims to be quite good at the game but not to "have the means to finance his passion."
So quite literally a French sporting crime of passion - of sorts?
He’ll have the chance to explain himself fully when his case comes to court, but for that he’ll have to wait until April.
It’s a game played by thousands in this country and as with many a sport it can inflame the passions of both participants and spectators.
Unfortunately for one particular young man he took his enthusiasm for it a step too far by stealing a couple of treasured "boules" or balls and getting caught in the act, not once, but twice.
Maybe a word or two on pétanque at this point as even though it’s an international sport, it’s not exactly one of the best known around the world.
There are plenty of better well-informed sources out there describing what it is and where it originates, but succinctly (and therefore probably not entirely accurately) put it’s a sort of French bowls.
Just to emphasise the popularity of pétanque here in France, it ranks as the eighth most played sport in terms of active club membership with apparently more than 362,000 registered players.
There’s a federation governing the sport in this country, championships broken down by sex and age, and of course a French cup.
In fact to find out everything and anything you might ever have wanted to know (or not, as the case might be) there’s the bible of the game available annually in the form of Le Guide Boulisme.
Anyway back to the man who was caught stealing those boules.
The 33-year-old was arrested in the southwestern French town of Dax earlier this week as he attempted to lift a couple of them worth €199 ($US 269) from a store.
No mean feat really as they usually weigh anything between 650 and 800 grammes each and so aren’t exactly the easiest things to sneak out of a shop without being noticed.
Apparently it wasn’t the first time he was "caught in the act" according to the regional daily, Sud Ouest.
He was stopped just last month committing a similar theft, albeit for the smaller amount of €163 ($US220).
All of which means, says the paper, that when his case comes to court he’ll be treated as a repeat offender and runs the risk of not just facing a fine but also a sentence.
And his defence? Well he claims to be quite good at the game but not to "have the means to finance his passion."
So quite literally a French sporting crime of passion - of sorts?
He’ll have the chance to explain himself fully when his case comes to court, but for that he’ll have to wait until April.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Saturday February 14th Tournament CANCELED
The tournament which was to have been held this Saturday, has been canceled due poor weather forecasts and sloppy conditions at the courts.
We look forward to seeing you at the tournament, next month for the honor of having your name on the Northern California Commemorative Trophy for a year.
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m. Bring your own lunch.
Select Mixed Doublettes (1 man & 1 woman). Plaques, but no cash prizes.
Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
We look forward to seeing you at the tournament, next month for the honor of having your name on the Northern California Commemorative Trophy for a year.
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m. Bring your own lunch.
Select Mixed Doublettes (1 man & 1 woman). Plaques, but no cash prizes.
Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Boulisme Pétanque Newsletter
For all of our Francophiles, here is a wonderful newsletter of and about pétanque in France and throughout the world.
The following is an excerpt from "Boulisme" which talks about the growing interestof pétanque in the Mexican State of the Yucatán.
Des boules au Mexique
Amoureux de pétanque, des Français exilés au Mexique, ont lancé une association visant à l’intégration de leurs compatriotes, notamment par les boules. Une étape vers la création de la fédération mexicaine. Echange avec Pierre De Oliveira, l’un des membres....
Click here to read the complete article.
Click here to read the complete article.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Get in the Spirit with DECA SPORTS 2
San Mateo, Calif.– Feb. 1, 2010– To celebrate the popular DECA SPORTS franchise, Hudson Entertainment, the North and South American subsidiary of Hudson, has lowered DECA SPORTS 2’s retail price from $29.99 to $19.99. With more than 2.5 million units of the first DECA SPORTS shipped to date, gamers around the world have been enjoying the variety of sports in the series, including winter sports such as ice hockey, speed skating and mogul skiing, in DECA SPORTS 2 for Wii™.
“People around the world are brushing up on knowledge and practice of winter sports,” said Dai Kudo, Director of Consumer Products of Hudson Entertainment.“Now more Wii players will have a chance to experience the diverse games in DECA SPORTS 2 , including three winter sports.”
With the addition of Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection online multiplayer, DECA SPORTS 2 allows players to remotely do battle with other gamers across the country in tennis, ice hockey and dodge ball. The game also features diverse sports such as synchronized swimming, motorcycle road racing, speed skating, mogul skiing and darts, as well as lesser known, but no less exciting, international sports such as pétanque and kendo. Gamers will also be able to design their own teams, customizing uniforms, athlete skills and even the looks of the athletes themselves. DECA SPORTS 2 will truly take the original game’s credo of“the Everybody Sports Game” to the next level.
For more information on DECA SPORTS 2 , please visit Hudson Entertainment at www.DecaSports2.comMonday, January 25, 2010
The New Dam Party
Dear N Cal Boulistenautes,
Sunday, Jan 31 High: 60 °F RealFeel®: 62 °F Partly sunny
At this time of year that rates as a pretty good forecast, and unless there's a major turn for the worse, this is definitely good-enough weather for our ever-morphing winter boules encounter. Eldon is working on turning out the Mendocino and Coastal representatives and all that remains is to recap some of the basic outlines so you can fill in the details.
There's a new locale. Peggy and David have scouted out the replacement for the now paved parking lot. Click here for directions.
Let's all try to be there so we can start to play at 10:00. If for you this means being there at 9:15, so be it. Some others may interpret it to mean getting there between 9:42 and 9:45.
As always this is a pot-luck, that means bring foodstuffs appropriate for sharing with everyone. We will not have the same cushy setup with the pavillion/tables/firegrate/restrooms that we have grown used to. There is however a port-o-san and a short hop in a car will get you to more civilized accomodations.
So please bring things like portable tables and chairs or you'll be eating off the roof of your car and sitting on the fenders. Also, since we'll be without running water you might want to fill a couple of big jugs with eau de maison for cleanup, handwashing, coffee making etc. It would be great if anyone who has one of those pop-up awnings brings it, if only to act as an anti-rainfall fetish.
I'm sure I've forgotten something, but don't let that influence your planning. Be prepared for bad weather and then we'll all be pleasantly surprised when it's only mediocre. Anyway, I'm sure someone will chime in to remind me what I left out.
Oh, and don't forget your boules --- remember those rusty things that have been tripping you up on the garage floor since October?
Look forward to seeing you on the 31st,
frank pipal
Sunday, Jan 31 High: 60 °F RealFeel®: 62 °F Partly sunny
At this time of year that rates as a pretty good forecast, and unless there's a major turn for the worse, this is definitely good-enough weather for our ever-morphing winter boules encounter. Eldon is working on turning out the Mendocino and Coastal representatives and all that remains is to recap some of the basic outlines so you can fill in the details.
There's a new locale. Peggy and David have scouted out the replacement for the now paved parking lot. Click here for directions.
Let's all try to be there so we can start to play at 10:00. If for you this means being there at 9:15, so be it. Some others may interpret it to mean getting there between 9:42 and 9:45.
As always this is a pot-luck, that means bring foodstuffs appropriate for sharing with everyone. We will not have the same cushy setup with the pavillion/tables/firegrate/
So please bring things like portable tables and chairs or you'll be eating off the roof of your car and sitting on the fenders. Also, since we'll be without running water you might want to fill a couple of big jugs with eau de maison for cleanup, handwashing, coffee making etc. It would be great if anyone who has one of those pop-up awnings brings it, if only to act as an anti-rainfall fetish.
I'm sure I've forgotten something, but don't let that influence your planning. Be prepared for bad weather and then we'll all be pleasantly surprised when it's only mediocre. Anyway, I'm sure someone will chime in to remind me what I left out.
Oh, and don't forget your boules --- remember those rusty things that have been tripping you up on the garage floor since October?
Look forward to seeing you on the 31st,
frank pipal
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Club de Pétanque "Bolos de Santa Anita", Guadalajara, México
PÉTANCA A LA MÉXICANA
As most people who are familiar with the game of pétanque may be aware, it is a sport growing in world-wide popularity. What many people may not know however is that one of the countries where we have been seeing growth, is México.In 1998, in the town of Santa Anita, Jalisco located in the shadow of the city of Guadalajara, capitol of the state of Jalisco, the late Mr. Miguel Angel Iñiguez Sanchez formed the "Bolos de Santa Anita" pétanque club. At first Don Iñiguez started by teaching his sons, Miguel Angel, Luis Fernando, Hector and Alfonso. Later, cousins and then friends were invited to play and be a part of the club. They have two courts, one of which is covered for use during inclement weather. Presently under the leadership of their President, Mr. Ramon Carrillo Aldrete, the club is 16 members strong. If you think that you may find yourself in Guadalajara and would like to play "pétanca a la méxicana", please contact Alfonso Iñiguez Lazcano
As many of you may also know, two of our now ex-pat members, Douglas and Donna have recently settled, 40 minutes away, in the small town of Ajijic (ah-hee-HEEK) located on the shore of beautiful Lake Chapala.
Friday, January 1, 2010
LPM 2010 Calendar
All tournaments will start at
For further information, call Christine at: 415-302-5069 or by email at: petanque.marin@gmail.com
Or if you are on your way but going to be late, call Christine at: 415-302-5069
Caution: all data susceptible to change
Saturday March 14 - Northern CA Commemorative Cup.
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS STARTS
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m. Bring your own lunch.
Select Mixed Doublettes (1 man & 1 woman). Plaques, but no cash prizes.
Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
Sunday April 11 - Lentils & Sausages OPEN tournament
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
No Cash Prizes. Prizes awarded by raffle.
Panaché for members & newcomers. Lunch $10.00.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday April 8!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or aefron3@comcast.net
Sunday May 9 - Potluck Picnic
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m.
Tête a Tête (Gender Specific). There will be separate male and female tournaments.
Sunday June 13 - Steak Picnic and OPEN tournament
Mini pétanque clinic to be held between 10 and 11
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
No Cash Prizes. Prizes to be awarded by raffle.
Panaché. Bring friends or guests. $13.00 per person.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday June 11!!!
Please Call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday July 17 & 18 - FPUSA WOMEN'S and JUNIOR WORLD QUALIFIER
BOTH QUALIFIERS ARE TWO DAY EVENTS
PRE -REGISTRATION REQUIRED - DETAILS FORTHCOMING
Sunday July 25 - Fourth Annual "Bay Area and Beyond" Interclub Tournament
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
DETAILS FORTHCOMING
Lentils and Sausage Picnic and Open Tournament
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
Cash Prizes.
Panaché for members & newcomers. Lunch $10.00.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday August 5th!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday September 12 - Lamb Picnic, and OPEN tournament
Panaché Tournament Open to ALL
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. !!
Casual games before lunch. Games will start after lunch at 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Menu: BBQ Lamb, white beans, salad, cheese & bread.
Free for Members in Good Standing, $13.00 for non-members.
Friends, family and guests are welcome.
No Cash Prizes – Wine awarded by raffle drawing
Additional raffle drawing for a $150.- gift certifcate to PÉTANQUE AMERICA
Reservations are required by the evening of Thursday, Sept. 9
Contact Alain Efron (415) 479-5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday October 10 -
Casual Play for members not wishing to compete in the
FPUSA Mixed Triples being hosted by Lamorinda
Saturday October 24
Business meeting/buffet.
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Reservations by Thursday November ?? mandatory!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415 479.5820 or Claudie Chourré, 415.456.1778
Sunday November 14
Tournament a la melée. Bring your own lunch
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m.
December
Happy Holidays!
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS STARTS
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m. Bring your own lunch.
Select Mixed Doublettes (1 man & 1 woman). Plaques, but no cash prizes.
Apéritifs will be served after awards ceremony.
Sunday April 11 - Lentils & Sausages OPEN tournament
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
No Cash Prizes. Prizes awarded by raffle.
Panaché for members & newcomers. Lunch $10.00.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday April 8!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or aefron3@comcast.net
Sunday May 9 - Potluck Picnic
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m.
Tête a Tête (Gender Specific). There will be separate male and female tournaments.
Sunday June 13 - Steak Picnic and OPEN tournament
Mini pétanque clinic to be held between 10 and 11
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
No Cash Prizes. Prizes to be awarded by raffle.
Panaché. Bring friends or guests. $13.00 per person.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday June 11!!!
Please Call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday July 17 & 18 - FPUSA WOMEN'S and JUNIOR WORLD QUALIFIER
BOTH QUALIFIERS ARE TWO DAY EVENTS
PRE -REGISTRATION REQUIRED - DETAILS FORTHCOMING
Sunday July 25 - Fourth Annual "Bay Area and Beyond" Interclub Tournament
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
DETAILS FORTHCOMING
Lentils and Sausage Picnic and Open Tournament
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. All games start after lunch. (1pm or before)
Cash Prizes.
Panaché for members & newcomers. Lunch $10.00.
Reservations mandatory by Thursday August 5th!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415.479.5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday September 12 - Lamb Picnic, and OPEN tournament
Panaché Tournament Open to ALL
Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. !!
Casual games before lunch. Games will start after lunch at 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Menu: BBQ Lamb, white beans, salad, cheese & bread.
Free for Members in Good Standing, $13.00 for non-members.
Friends, family and guests are welcome.
No Cash Prizes – Wine awarded by raffle drawing
Additional raffle drawing for a $150.- gift certifcate to PÉTANQUE AMERICA
Reservations are required by the evening of Thursday, Sept. 9
Contact Alain Efron (415) 479-5820 or lutecemeister@gmail.com
Sunday October 10 -
Casual Play for members not wishing to compete in the
FPUSA Mixed Triples being hosted by Lamorinda
Saturday October 24
Business meeting/buffet.
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Reservations by Thursday November ?? mandatory!!!
Please call Alain Efron, 415 479.5820 or Claudie Chourré, 415.456.1778
Sunday November 14
Tournament a la melée. Bring your own lunch
Registration ends at 10:00 a.m. All games start at 10:30 a.m.
December
Happy Holidays!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Fresno Pétanque
Here is the latest newsletter from our neighbors to the not-so-far south. Click here to read it in it's entirety.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Holiday Wishes from LPM
Merry Christmas Everybody,
The Holiday Season 2009 is upon us, yet Christmas and it's traditions don't always bring visions of joy and happiness to everyone. Keep in mind that when you are looking for that perfect gift, that love is the easiest gift to give. Its simple... its elegant... and it lasts a long time. It's always brand new... and if it's returned it brings even more joy. At this time of the year, let us reach out and forget all our bitterness toward our fellow man, extend to him or her, our true hand of love and friendship... because love brings hope... and hope removes doubt...without doubt there is no uncertainty.
With that, all of us at La Pétanque Marinière would like to wish you the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of New Years.
The Holiday Season 2009 is upon us, yet Christmas and it's traditions don't always bring visions of joy and happiness to everyone. Keep in mind that when you are looking for that perfect gift, that love is the easiest gift to give. Its simple... its elegant... and it lasts a long time. It's always brand new... and if it's returned it brings even more joy. At this time of the year, let us reach out and forget all our bitterness toward our fellow man, extend to him or her, our true hand of love and friendship... because love brings hope... and hope removes doubt...without doubt there is no uncertainty.
With that, all of us at La Pétanque Marinière would like to wish you the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of New Years.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Pétanque Wines at Trader Joe's
It's time to stock up on the popular wine from Michel-Schlumberger in the Dry Creek Valley as it is now available from Trader Joe's in San Rafael. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are all selling for the unheard of $4.99 per bottle.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
La Franc Pétanque Boules
Welcome to La Franc pétanque boules from Thailand!
FBT Sports is considered the Sporting Giant of Thailand because of its wide range of sports equlpment and wear manufacturing facilities, and also its dominant marketing and sales activities throughout of Thailand.
Another reason is FBT’s cars and responsibility as a Corporate Citizen committed towards the development of sports in Thailand with its philanthropic contribution as a donor or sponsor since the inception of the company in 1952.
As a manufacturer, a wholesaler and a retailer, FBT can control the quality of its products to the end customers and, at the same time, have the flexibility to suit all types of markets. This allows FBT the advantage of producing high quality products at affordable prices.
Click on video to go to the factory and watch the actual boule making process.
When at the factory click on "area 6" to begin the video.
Click on boule department to see fotos of the boule making area of the factory.
La Franc Pétanque balls are now available directly from
Pétanque America and are approved by the International Pétanque Federation for International Competitions.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Pétanque Spreads in Northern Florida
Grand opening of The Bakery by Opus 39 in St Augustine, Florida
It seems that since the Pétanque America Open, the sport is catching on in the northeastern part of the state. the following article appeared today in the Historic City News out of St. Augustine, Florida
The Bakery by Opus 39 reported to Historic City News that they will be holding their grand opening next Tuesday, December 15th.
The new Bakery is located behind Opus 39 on Cordova Street.
The Bakery’s retail pastry and bread shop is open to the public for breakfast, coffee, lunch and catering. Wholesale breads, pastries, etc. are available for restaurants.
Historic City News reader and City Commissioner Nancy Sikes-Kline reported that this is very exciting news. “If you have never tasted the bread at Opus, you should; it’s to die for”, Sikes-Kline said.
Fresh bread with real butter dripping down your elbow as you enjoy it — hot, fresh, right out of their ovens. All breads are made daily to satisfy.
Chef Michael says the deck is great,The Pétanque Court is ready to play and the new patio furniture and fountains are really nice.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
36 Hours in Austin, Texas
THE city’s unofficial motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” blares from bumper stickers on BMWs and jalopies alike, on T-shirts worn by joggers along Lady Bird Lake and in the windows of independently owned shops and restaurants. It’s an exhortation for a city that clings to eccentricity, even in the face of rapid development — downtown Austin, for one, is being transformed with a fleet of high-rise condos and a W Hotel, scheduled to open late next year. But this funky college town, known for its liberal leanings and rich music scene, has little to worry about — at least as long as its openhearted citizens, with their colorful bungalows and tattoos, do their part to keep the city endearingly odd. As one local put it: “As long as Austinites keep decorating their bodies and cars, we’re going to be fine.”
part of what happens in 36 hours in Austin is pétanque...
part of what happens in 36 hours in Austin is pétanque...
8:30 p.m.
8) FRENCH CONNECTION
There’s something almost Felliniesque about driving down a dark road lined with industrial warehouses, and stumbling onto Justine’s (4710 East Fifth Street; 512-385-2900; www.justines1937.com), bistro. a new, pitch-perfect FrenchOutside, a family plays pétanque on the driveway; inside, groups of friends and couples sit on Thonet chairs at candlelit cast-iron-and-marble cafe tables, as a turntable, manned by the owner, Pierre Pelegrin, plays old jazz and reggae tunes. With atmosphere this good, the meal — Parisian comfort food, and delicious — is just a bonus. Order the duck confit ($15) or the steak frites with pepper sauce ($18).
to see what happens the rest of the 36 hours, click hereFrederic Matocq
Greetings All,
The Rosary will be held at Keaton's, 1022 E St., San Rafael, at 7pm on Tuesday, Dec 1st.
The service will be held at Noon on Wed. Dec 2. at St Rafael Church, Fifth Street, San Rafael.
Christine
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Pétanque America Open foto montage
Here is the latest slideshow of the Pétanque America Open to be published
Thanks to Christophe Chambers of New York and Gary Jones of North Carolina for capturing some great moments during the Open with such wonderful images.
Click here to watch the slideshow.
Thanks to Christophe Chambers of New York and Gary Jones of North Carolina for capturing some great moments during the Open with such wonderful images.
Click here to watch the slideshow.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Pétanque America Open Finals
Spoiled by a fabulous November weather the Amelia Island Petanque America open showed some fabulous artistry, especially by European Shooting champion and former World Champion Claudy Weibel who was teamed up with his friend Xavier Thibaud from the New York Petanque club. The two proved to be too strong for the rest of the 200 plus competitors. The population of Amelia Island has embraced the century old French ball game and the city of Fernandina Beach has left permanent courts on the side of its brandnew Marina complex. A new league is already in the making and next year we expect an expanded field of players.
Click here to watch a video of the final match. Courtesy of SearchAmelia.com
Click here to watch a video of the final match. Courtesy of SearchAmelia.com
Pétanque America Open Slideshow
Finally, here is La Pétanque Marinère's slideshow from the Pétanque America Open which took place on November 14 & 15 in Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island, Florida. Philippe Boets, owner of Pétanque America, organised the Open with many enthusiastic and impassioned volunteers helping him along. La Pétanque Marinière was represented by four of it's members who reported to have enjoyed the games and conviviality a great deal. Everyone was so enthused that 8 courts were left as they were to entertain people who want to come to the waterfront and play pétanque. It looks like Fernandina Beach has welcomed pétanque with open arms and that it may be a permanent fixture at the waterfront. Rumor is that another Open may take place next year, and people are already expressing desire to be involved.
We would like to extend our most sincere appreciation to, of course, Philippe, for all the sleepless nights, the countless days of planning, coordinating and endless energy and passion. The wonderfully able and erudite Christophe Chambers for directing the tournament, Mayor Susan Steger of Fernandina Island, François Kloc of the Alliance Française de Jacksonville. To T.J. Seaton, Philippe's adorable girl-friday, to Robert from the New York Pétanque Club for his tireless efforts in turning the parking lot into the pétanque courts, to Monsieur Jacques Pépin and his wonderful wife Gloria, Michel and Lori Nischan of Wesport Connecticut's The Dressing Room. to Pete "da meat" for catering a mouthwatering "welcome-to-amelia-island party", to the Police Auxiliary for providing refreshaments all weekend to thirsty competitors and spectators, to Babe Ruth Baseball for hitting home runs with their hamburgers and hot dogs.
To Niko of Ace Taxi for always being at the ready, with a smile, to pick up someone and take them somewhere at a moment's notice. To Bob Ramshaw General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites and all of his wonderful staff for being so accomodating to so many of us. To the staff of the restaurants Le Clos, Karibo, España, Bright Mornings Café, Brett's Waterway and The Palace Saloon for keeping us fed in fine fashion and ALL of those who spent tireless hours and days preparing for the onslaught of so many boulistes.
We would also like to thank the participation of so many enthusiastic players hailing from as far away as Belgium, Germany, St Barts, FWI. Canada, California, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Maine. Delaware, Iowa, North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Florida.
Click here to view the slideshow.
Feel free to download copies of any foto. They are all high resolution images.
We would like to extend our most sincere appreciation to, of course, Philippe, for all the sleepless nights, the countless days of planning, coordinating and endless energy and passion. The wonderfully able and erudite Christophe Chambers for directing the tournament, Mayor Susan Steger of Fernandina Island, François Kloc of the Alliance Française de Jacksonville. To T.J. Seaton, Philippe's adorable girl-friday, to Robert from the New York Pétanque Club for his tireless efforts in turning the parking lot into the pétanque courts, to Monsieur Jacques Pépin and his wonderful wife Gloria, Michel and Lori Nischan of Wesport Connecticut's The Dressing Room. to Pete "da meat" for catering a mouthwatering "welcome-to-amelia-island party", to the Police Auxiliary for providing refreshaments all weekend to thirsty competitors and spectators, to Babe Ruth Baseball for hitting home runs with their hamburgers and hot dogs.
To Niko of Ace Taxi for always being at the ready, with a smile, to pick up someone and take them somewhere at a moment's notice. To Bob Ramshaw General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites and all of his wonderful staff for being so accomodating to so many of us. To the staff of the restaurants Le Clos, Karibo, España, Bright Mornings Café, Brett's Waterway and The Palace Saloon for keeping us fed in fine fashion and ALL of those who spent tireless hours and days preparing for the onslaught of so many boulistes.
We would also like to thank the participation of so many enthusiastic players hailing from as far away as Belgium, Germany, St Barts, FWI. Canada, California, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Maine. Delaware, Iowa, North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Florida.
Click here to view the slideshow.
Feel free to download copies of any foto. They are all high resolution images.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
French game petanque welcomed in Fernandina Beach
International petanque tournament attracts hundreds of players, spectators
Gleaming metal balls from France flew through the air last weekend as many passersby wondered about all the people wandering around wearing straw Ricard hats.
With the number of different languages heard on the street, Fernandina Beach might have passed for a European town when it hosted its first petanque tournament Nov. 14-15. It was the second international petanque tournament ever held in the United States.
Petanque, pronounced "pay-tonk," is a French game that is wildly popular in Europe and is similar to both horseshoes and Italian bocce ball.
Almost 100 two-player teams from Europe and 22 U.S. states competed in the 2009 Petanque America Open on 45 gravel courts set up along the waterfront just south of the Fernandina Harbor Marina. In keeping with its roots, the tournament was sponsored by Ricard Pastis, an anise-flavored liqueur popular in the South of France.
Chef Jacques Pepin at Petanque America Open
Celebrity Chef Jacques Pépin, Ambassador for Pétanque
During last weekend’s Amelia Island Pétanque America tournament we had the pleasure and honor to interview several world famous chefs and players in front of our cameras. The first one of a series is TV celebrity chef Jacques Pépin, who with his wife Gloria gave a very special dimension to the event.
click on the title to view complete article and interview
Chef Michel Nischan at Petanque America Open
Interview with Pétanque playing Master Chef Michel Nischan
One of the most delightful down-to-earth people ever to set foot on Amelia Island is, in my opinion celebrity chef Michel Nischan owner/operator of the famed ‘Dressing Room’ restaurant in Westport Ct. During last week’s Pétanque America Tournament, he and his charming wife Lori lit up the town and a lot of hearts. A novice Pétanque player, attracted to the game by fellow celebrity chef Jacques Pépin, his presence among some of the best Pétanque players in the world was somewhat short-lived, which gave him and his delightful wife Lori abundant time to explore our island.click on the title to view complete article
Jacques Pepin at Petanque America Open
Master Chef Jacques Pépin and Pétanque America Go Way Back
The game of Pétanque attracts people from all social and cultural levels of society. However there are two particular high profile groups that seem to have a special affinity to this century old French ballgame: Actors and Chefs.
The explanation for this phenomenon turns out to be quite simple: They have short spurs of idle time on their hands between performances. Anyone who has ever worked a restaurant kitchen knows the hectic pace of lunch time, usually followed by a lull of about an hour or so. In France this break is often filled by a relaxed but highly competitive game of Petanque. Especially in the South of France, most of the kitchen staff have their own set of balls (boules) and when the work pace slacks, the game begins.
click on the title for the complete article
Petanque America Open #1
Weibel and Thibaud too Strong for Competition
European Champion Claudy Weibel and New York partner Xavier Thibaud were too strong for the rest of the Petanquers in the Amelia Island Pétanque America Open last weekend.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Pétanque America Open 2009
Pétanque America Open 2009 comes to a close
Here are the photographic impression of the second and finals day of the American Open Petanque 2009 on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach. The second day may have been even more glorious in weather than Saturday’s treat of a phenomenal sunrise followed by azure blue skies and temperatures in the high 70’s. The weather was so beautiful that many a player and spectator at the end of the day had slight sunburns and wearing a hat or cap was almost a necessity.
click on the title to read the complete article and to view the fotos
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
Celebrity chef to visit Amelia Island
Celebrity chef Jacques Pepin will visit Amelia Island next weekend. His main mission in coming to Fernandina is to participate in a petanque tournament, but he will also sign books from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at the tournament site just north of the Fernandina Marina.
Pentanque is French game described by the tournament organizer Philippe Boets as a cross between bocce ball and horseshoes. The game is played with balls, but instead of rolling them like bocce ball, you throw them.
Pepin, who is French, is an avid player and has even started a league in his neighborhood in Connecticut. Pepin is a longtime fixture on PBS cooking shows, is a dean at the French Culinary Institute and was a featured judge on "Top Chef."
In addition to Pepin, Boets said the tournament will be drawing in other French chefs as well, including Chef Michel Nischan, who has written several cookbooks and is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and cooking with local foods.
The Pentanque America Open will span the weekend and is open to spectators. Nearly 200 players are expected to participate. Newcomers to the game can also participate in pick-up games. For more information, visit petanque america.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Third-Annual Interclub Tournament
November 8, 2009
hosted by La Pétanque Marinière
hosted by La Pétanque Marinière
at Pierre Josque Courts, San Rafael
To register, contact Alain Efron by Friday, November 6
email: lutecemeister@gmail.com or phone: 415-479-5820
Pre-registration is required for this event.
Tournament details
On-site PRE-REGISTERED PLAYER CHECK IN ends: 9:30 / Games start: 10:00
Registration fee $3.00 per player
No Cash Prize
Club Name and Winning Team will be engraved on Tournament Trophy
Winning team will be awarded individual plaques
Tournament Format
3 Qualification Games in doublettes – with random paring of members of the same club.
Within each club, players will be ranked according to number of wins and number of points.
Clubs will then be given a ranking by adding the number of wins and number of points of their 8 best ranked players.
Final Championship - Triplette to 15 points
The clubs ranking 1 & 2 will play a Final Championship round by opposing their 3 best ranking players in a – 15 point final round.
In the event of:
* Two clubs ranking equal for second place, the club having the larger number of players enrolled in the tournament wins second place and plays in the finals.
* Two players of a given club who rank equal for third place, the tournament director will choose randomly between these two players by a coin toss.
LPM Members,
Join us in helping Marin take back the trophy!
Sign up soon to make sure you can get a spot in the tournament!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
FPUSA 2009 NW Regional Doubles
La Boule d'Or - October 4, 2009It was a beautiful day in Golden Gate Park as a small but enthusiastic group gathered to compete in this years FPUSA NW Regional Doubles competition. I had the pleasure of playing with my sister, Donna Klaiber, a member of Club Francais de Sacramento. We were the first to arrive - after Joss and John Krauer who, of course, were already busy setting up for the day. As players arrived and coffee and cake were consumed, the team numbers were pulled and the tournament soon began.
With ten teams playing three qualifying games before lunch, Donna and I were happy to get 12, 11 & 9 points, against the fine players that we were paired against. As the day progressed, the wind picked up a bit, but the sun held and soon lunch was over and the afternoon games began. I was busy trying to win - so I can't give you any specific game details - but I can give the final results.
Second Place Consolante: Jacques Avedissian and Richard Prydz
(they took off before our camera came out)
First Place Consolante:
Joss Krauer and Jean-Claude Bunnand
In the Concours: Third Place: Alain Gusella and Yvette Ghione
(Alain accepting for the team)
Second Place:Louis Toulon and Ed Porto
With First Place n the FPUSA NW Regional Doubles
going to
Antoine Lofaro and John Krauer.
To John, Joss and the members of La Boule d'Or,
many thanks for a great day!
Christine Cragg
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Greetings everyone! CLICK HERE to download the flier for the upcoming FPUSA Northwest Regional Tournament being hosted by Club Français de Sacramento. This event will be held in Rancho Cordova, CA on Sunday, September 20, 2009. The flier provides all the details you should need. However, if you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact our Director of Pétanque, Kevin McGill, or event co-coordinator, Reid Evans. We're planning on a great day of FPUSA competition pétanque, so please encourage your members to join us. See you all next month!
Tim Dugas
CFdS Secretary
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Lamb Picnic 2009
The ever anticipated annual Lamb Picnic was held Sunday. In spite of the blustery weather, of the 80 plus people who were present to enjoy the food and festivities, there were 60 players. We welcome John And Nancy Mengshol as our newest members, and were happy to see Birgit Alton, Gentry Bronson and Steve and Ellie Termecz, newcomers to the sport, enjoying themselves and even winning in the raffle as well as in the competition.
Even the rain looked upon us with favor and decided not to dampen our endeavor until we were all finished with the clean-up.
La Pétanque Marinière was also proud to have Mark Koppen present from the Dry Creek Valley winery of Michel-Schlumberger. Michel-Schlumerger is the maker of Pétanque Wines and they graciously sponsored the event. Click on slide show to see the days events.
The winners of the tournament were:
First Place: Jacques Sarafian, Douglas Vernet and Laura Bohin
Second Place: Luis Velez, Jean Ectcheverry and Claudie Chourré
Third Place: Richard Bagel, Steve Termecz and Eva Lofaro
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Lamb Picnic & OPEN Tournament
Sunday September 13
Panaché Tournament OPEN to ALL.
Guests and newcomers are welcome.Registration ends at 11:00 a.m. !!
Casual games before lunch.
Games will start after lunch at 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Menu: BBQ Lamb, white beans, salad, cheese & bread.
Free for Members in Good Standing, $13 for non-members.
No Cash Prizes – Wine awarded by raffle drawing, as well as PÉTANQUE wine raffled for participation
Post-Lunch raffle drawing for a $200.- gift certifcate to PÉTANQUE AMERICA
Reservations are required by the evening of Thursday, Sept. 10
Please send reservations to Alain Efron (415) 479-5820 or aefron3@comcast.net
Sponsored in part by our friends at Michel Schlumberger Winery. Makers of Pétanque Wines
Monday, September 7, 2009
Louis Vuitton Pétanque
Louis Vuitton pay special tribute to this quintessentially
French sport with a set of pétanque balls featuring their legendary monogram. The time has come to take pétanque across frontiers, whether it's in London's Hyde Park or New York's Central Park, or in the lobby of the Plaza Hotel.
To read the complete article click here
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