Whether in floods or in dribs and drabs, memories involving Nanci, Jimella and their restaurants here on the Peninsula are an integral part of our lives. A chance glimpse of twinkly lights or the mention of an old friend – even a bit of music – can trigger thoughts of a day or a year or an experience at one of their establishments — often something I hadn’t thought of in years.
Nanci’s announcement on FaceBook a few hours ago that she has put the Café up for sale brought forth a torrent of such thoughts. I thought of all the wonderful meals – from Willie Burgers to All-You-Can-Eat oysters – with people and organizations long gone. My folks, Gordon and Roy, Dorothy and Chuck Huggins, the Willapa Chapter of Daughters of the Pioneers came immediately to mind. So many celebrations – birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties – took place in those restaurants.
And how many people have told me that their introduction to the Peninsula was through Nanci and Jimella and The Ark? More recently, newcomers lament that they didn’t get here ‘in time’ to know that iconic Nahcotta restaurant and, in the same sentence, rejoice that the Café in Klipsan has been here for them.
Those of us who remember the Seaview days – the parties on the beach, the restaurant at the Shelburne the horrible night of their house fire – are becoming fewer. Their Ark Cookbooks long ago became collectible – not only for the recipes (which would have been enough) but for the photographs and commentary about the Peninsula. For that’s what both Nanci and Jimella were all about – the community.
I have no doubt that Nanci will continue to make her mark here. It’s what she does. Whether it’s baking or hostessing or running the whole shebang, Nanci lives and breathes a community work ethic like few others. I can’t wait to see what her next chapter will be and what memories it will engender. But first… take a well-deserved break, Nanci Sophia! You’ve earned it and then some!
On the one hand this news is shocking, but on the other she has been at it a long time. A break and something new are called for. Best of luck to her!