Hayes Valley Comes Together to Rejoice, Reflect & Reward

By Frances Neagley

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It was a beautiful day - the sun was shining and there was a slight breeze. The setting was equally beautiful - Jim Warshell and Gail Baugh’s house on Hayes Street. The occasion was special - a benefit celebrating the efforts of Hayes Valley Community Partners and Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association, and the 50th birthday of Richard Johnson. Assemblyman Mark Leno, Supervisor Bevan Duffy, Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi and other friends of Hayes Valley sponsored the event.

There was music and singing from Rhett Stuart, Horus Jack Tolson and Evilla Campbell. Food showcased local chefs from Absinthe, Arlequin, Café Grillade, Frjtes Belgium Fries, Paul K, Patxi’s, Lovejoy’s Tea Room and Market Street Safeway. Lynne Winslow and Associates helped organize the event and provided the wine. Floral arrangements were done by Torryne Choate, and the setting couldn’t have been nicer. Costumes by Mario Chacon added dramatic flair to the festivities.

Photo: Frances Neagley
Ms Evilla Campbell’s closing song at the event

There were proclamations and certificates of appreciation from the Assembly, the Mayor and the Board of Supervisors in recognition of all the work done by HVNA and Hayes Valley Community Partners as well as special recognition for Richard Johnson and his involvement in the neighborhood. Further recognition from government agencies was given to Ms Ruby Johnson and the Western Addition Drill Team, and to Hayes Valley Neighborhood Parks Group.

All in all, it was a wonderful afternoon celebrating the neighborhood and the community. The money raised will benefit both Hayes Valley Community Partners and Hayes Valley Neighborhood Organization. (Photos from the event are available on our website: www.hayesvalleysf.org)