Jack’s Bohemian Groove
The annual summer gala at Jack London State Historic Park, Saturday, September 23. The themed evening brings to life the bohemian spirit of Jack and Charmian London set as their Beauty Ranch might have been back in its social heyday.
Cocktails and apps (and “interactive activities”) in the grove, dinner in the ruins, music by songwriter John Elliott, performance by jazz songbird Sony Holland, and theatrical flourishes from producer Marcelo Defreitas. $350. 6pm. Jacklondonpark.com.
Additionally, significant contributions by four individuals will be recognized:
Philanthropy — Mary Clark-Janis: A member of the Clark-Janis Family Foundation, she began her professional life as an elementary classroom teacher in Virginia, but eventually moved into advertising and then event planning. In 2008, she purchased a vacation home in Glen Ellen, but after designing and completing an extensive remodel, decided to make it her primary residence. She supervises her family’s foundation, is very mindful of the needs and challenges of nonprofits in Sonoma Valley and is an active member of Impact100 Sonoma. She has been a generous and steadfast supporter of the park since 2016.
Volunteers — Kathy Hillback-Ely and George Ely: Hillback-Ely and Ely have been park volunteers since 2012, when Jack London Park Partners was first formed to keep the park open and operating. Between the two of them, they have donated more than 3,200 hours of service. Hillback-Ely specializes in the park’s artistic legacy, buildings, and history. Ely’s primary focus is on the environmental and ecological aspects of the park. The couple is at the park almost daily and can be found caring for the museum and cottage, driving the golf cart, leading hikes and tours, and assisting visitors.
Park Advocate — Chris Locke: Chris Locke is a senior partner and former chair of the environmental law practice at Farella Braun + Martel in San Francisco. He and wife Starr have enjoyed the history and beauty of the park for more than two decades. During an orchard walk in 2021, Locke learned that Jack London Park Partners was addressing some environmental law issues and offered his pro bono assistance. Among other matters, he represented JLPP in successfully seeking the direct transfer of open space at Sonoma Developmental Center to Jack London State Historic Park. The land includes the historic orchard, which is being resorted, and provides produce for Farm to Pantry, which is fighting food insecurity in Sonoma County.
