Latest news with #Pinot
CBC
27-04-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Why Quebec could once again tip the balance in this federal election
At a casse-croûte on Montreal's South Shore, Anne-Marie Pinot settles in for a lunchtime poutine. She has voted for political parties across the spectrum over the years, but this time, she is voting Bloc Québécois. Pinot is concerned about the threat posed by U.S. President Donald Trump, but worries Quebec could be forgotten in trade negotiations without a strong local voice. Her 18-year-old daughter, also a Bloc supporter, motivated her to get more involved with the sovereigntist party. "The idea is to protect the Quebec economy," said Pinot, after snapping a selfie with Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet, who stopped for a photo-op in the hotly contested riding of Longueuil—Saint-Hubert, where polls suggest the Liberals are in a tight race with Bloc incumbent Denis Trudel. Pinot's argument reflects what Blanchet has been trying to get across to voters, in what has proven to be a challenging campaign for the sovereigntist party. The shadow cast by Trump has loomed large in Quebec, where questions of identity and culture have not been as present as in previous campaigns, said Sébastien Dallaire, executive vice-president with the polling firm Leger. "In the past few electoral cycles, it was easier to run on identity issues. That really gave the Bloc an edge compared to other parties," Dallaire said. "Without this, as people are talking more generally about the economy, how to defend Canada against the threats coming from the United States, it was much harder for the Bloc to really make its voice heard in that context." Bloc's pitch: 'We will be a responsible partner' The latest opinion polls show the Liberals could win as many as 45 of the province's 78 seats, with the Bloc a distant second with between 19 and 26, according to CBC's Poll Tracker. In the 2021 election, the Liberals won 35 seats, compared with 32 for the Bloc. The tracker suggests the Conservatives could win between 12 and 14, up from 10 in 2021. The NDP is hoping to hold on to its lone seat in Quebec, with Alexandre Boulerice in Montreal. In the final stretch of the campaign, Blanchet has acknowledged the Liberals could form the next government and has tried to make the case that the Bloc needs enough seats to represent Quebec's interests in Ottawa. "I don't want to be prime minister, but I can offer to be a partner, a responsible partner, a collaborative partner," Blanchet said during the English debate, stressing the need for the next federal government to protect the province's aluminum industry from tariffs, as well as the French language and culture. "If we are respected, we will be a partner, and then Canada will be stronger in its negotiation with Donald Trump." The two main parties have also tried to shore up support. Liberal Leader Mark Carney spent a day in Quebec during the last week of the campaign. In Trois-Rivières, another hotly contested riding, Carney said French language and identity and supply management are not "negotiable" in the face of Trump. "As long as I am prime minister, those fundamental components of our society and of Quebec's economy and the economy of all of Canada will never be called into question," he said. The Conservatives appear to have a stronghold in the Quebec City area, where Pierre Poilievre announced his party's "Quebec platform" last month. Poilievre has said he would protect Quebec's autonomy and the French language and cut the number of non-permanent residents in the province by 50 per cent — a demand by Premier François Legault. As party leaders wrap up their pitches, analysts say Trump's influence still hangs over the campaign. "Even if Trump might be less central to the debates now, there is a path that was created — one that's favourable to the Liberals — and the Bloc and the Conservatives have been unable to really shift that path," said Daniel Béland, a political science professor and director of the McGill Institute for the Study of Canada. WATCH | How voters in Quebec view the campaign: How has this election campaign evolved for Canadians from start to finish? 1 day ago Duration 2:43 Trump and other issues Election campaigns tend to start with policy and numbers, and turn toward emotion near the end of a campaign, but in this case, Trump's threats flipped the script, Dallaire said. "Now it's more of a calculating, more rational end to a campaign," he said. Affordability is still a big issue, but inflation could potentially get worse if a trade war escalates with the U.S. "It brings up concerns about your job and your family's well-being," Dallaire said. "All these things are closely intertwined." In Longueuil this week, several residents said cost of living was among their top concerns. "I'm a student, so everything is really expensive," said Marianne Boisclair, adding that the environment was also a top concern. Robert Lauzon, who supports the Bloc, said his priorities are the "economy for sure, and the place for Quebec in Canada." On her way to the shopping mall with her newborn, Evelyne Gauvin said support for families and the environment were important. But the U.S. president "is still very much part of the debate." "And I think he is going to be there until the end of his mandate," she added. With that in mind, the Bloc could be especially vulnerable, polls suggest — and what happens to its seat count could tip the balance. "How much will the Bloc be able to keep? That may well decide if we have a majority or a minority government," Dallaire said.
Forbes
22-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Discover Napa Valley Noir: Kelly E. Carter's Luxury Wine Experience
(Napa Valley, CA) Kelly E. Carter is the founder of Napa Valley Noir (NVN), a luxury concierge service crafting unforgettable, bespoke experiences in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and beyond. I'm at an event in California wine country, glass in hand, mid-conversation, when I spot her. Excusing myself with all the grace I can muster, I perform the classic wine walk over—smooth, but with a hint of "don't spill the Pinot." I place my hand on my chest, avert my eyes just enough, give a slight bow, and say, 'Director Carter.' She grins, as always, and hits me with her signature, 'Boy, you need to stop.' This little ritual of ours has been going strong for almost five years, and honestly, it never gets old. If you flipped open the Wine Dictionary and searched my name and career, skip the colorful adjectives and head straight to the etymology, there, you'd find Kelly E. Carter, founder of Napa Valley Noir on a short list right next to Ryan Williams. If Ryan is the Godfather of Napa Valley, Kelly is its Glamazon Queen—fierce, brilliant, magnetic, and clearly handpicked by the wine gods themselves. Our history starts in 2020 with seven simple words typed into Google: "Black Wine Professionals in the Napa Valley." Up pops Kelly—ranking high, naturally. Her bio practically shouted "powerhouse": journalist, Director of Communications at Alpha Omega Winery, Delta Sigma Theta sorority member (I grew up in a Divine 9 household). I don't remember exactly where she ranked in the search results, but I do remember this—she was #1 on my reach-out list. One email later, I had an invite and an interview at Alpha Omega. That one email also led to introductions to some serious movers and shakers in the wine industry. Oh, and Kelly doesn't know this (or maybe she does, she's sharp like that), but that same email turned into her recommending me for a contributor gig at Haute Living SF. My first consistent writing job - all because of Kelly. She's been nothing but a champion—of me, her community, and anyone with a passion for wine. So when Kelly called to say she was leaving Alpha Omega to start her next big thing and asked if I'd support her, I nearly dropped my phone laughing. "Is that a real question? Of course, sista!" I told her. "But one thing—can I still call you 'Director Carter'?" That vision has come to life with Napa Valley Noir (NVN), a luxury concierge service crafting unforgettable, bespoke experiences in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and beyond. 'Napa Valley Noir was born out of my love for Napa Valley and my desire to offer unparalleled access to its hidden gems,' Carter shares. 'This is more than a concierge service—it's a gateway to bespoke adventures, where every detail reflects the client's unique style, interests, and appreciation for the finer things in life.' NVN isn't just about luxury—it's a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Kelly E. Carter is redefining the wine industry, shattering its perceived exclusivity by embedding inclusivity into NVN's very core. 'Everyone deserves to feel welcomed and cared for,' Carter explains. 'That's the spirit behind Napa Valley Noir.' With her journalistic storytelling expertise and unwavering passion for championing inclusivity, Carter is making NVN a trailblazer in the luxury travel and wine world. I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with CEO Carter for an inspiring Q&A—stay tuned to hear her story and vision! Growing up in Los Angeles, my mother's aunt lived with us and was the closest thing I had to a grandmother. She liked Manischewitz at dinner, and I occasionally was allowed a few sips when I was in grade school. I loved the wine because it tasted like grape juice. My mother, who never remarried after my father died of emphysema when I was six, preferred spirits. In the early 80s, like many other Americans, I was hooked on wine coolers. I transitioned to Chardonnay and White Zinfandel. True story: While on a Bermuda vacation with a beau in the early 90s, I ordered a bottle of what I thought was White Zinfandel at a fine dining restaurant. Imagine my shock when the waiter brought us a bottle of red wine! Rather than show my ignorance, we drank the Zinfandel. In 1991, I became the first female beat writer for the Los Angeles Lakers, covering every home and away game, the NBA All-Star game, and NBA Finals for four years. Gary Vitti, the Lakers trainer at the time, convinced me to switch to red wine because of its health benefits. The first memorable bottle I purchased was a 1994 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon at a wine shop near my South San Francisco hotel when I was an NFL writer for USA Today and in town for a 49ers game. I didn't set out to work in wine—quite the opposite. I initially feared that turning my passion into a profession would take the joy out of simply sipping a glass and unwinding. I worried that I'd focus too much on dissecting aromas and flavors instead of just enjoying the experience. Thankfully, that hasn't been the case. In fact, the more I learn about wine, the more I appreciate each sip, knowing how many hands and how much care has gone into crafting each bottle. When I moved to Napa Valley in 2015, while still the editor of Haute Living San Francisco magazine, I was immediately captivated—not just by the rolling hills that reminded me of my two years living in Italy (2003–2005), but by the wine industry itself. I became deeply interested in the stories behind the wineries—the passion and vision of the vintners, the thought process of the winemakers, and the dedication of vineyard workers, whom I have gained tremendous respect for over the past decade. My first job in the wine industry was as Director of Communications at Alpha Omega winery in Rutherford. Over seven years, I worked closely with co-proprietors Robin and Michelle Baggett and collaborated with every department, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the industry. This experience allowed me to deepen my knowledge of wine production, events, direct-to-consumer sales, the nuances of the tasting room, sustainability initiatives, and philanthropy—insights that now shape my approach to curating luxe experiences with Napa Valley Noir. Inspired after attending Wine Women's 'Back to School: Insider tips on education, certification and training' seminar in early March 2020, just before the country shut down due to Covid, I began my formal studies during the shutdown. Although I had already been working in the wine industry for four years, I chose to start with WSET Level 1. Just as I wouldn't build a house starting on the second floor, I didn't want to skip foundational knowledge in my wine education. From there, I earned WSET awards Level 2 with distinction and Level 3 with merit. I also expanded my expertise with a Discovering Italian Wine certificate while awaiting my Level 3 results. (Napa Valley, CA) Napa Valley Noir Founder Kelly E. Carter (center) with clients. In 2024, I founded Napa Valley Noir, a luxury concierge service, but in many ways, I've been building toward this moment for a few decades. My career has always been about storytelling, connection, and exploring the extraordinary. As an award-winning journalist, I traveled the world—visiting more than 40 countries and territories—developing an appreciation for luxury, culture, and hospitality. My seven years as Director of Communications at Alpha Omega winery gave me an insider's perspective on the wine industry and allowed me to cultivate invaluable relationships with proprietors, winemakers, and hospitality leaders. Through Napa Valley Noir, I bring all these experiences together to curate bespoke, insider experiences that exceed expectations. By crafting itineraries that reveal the true soul of Napa Valley and Sonoma County, while matching palate to purse, I want people to fall as deeply in love with America's premier wine destinations as I have. My goal is to open doors, make wine country more inclusive, and ensure that every guest leaves feeling enriched, inspired, and truly welcomed. The wine industry is facing challenges, partly because it was slow to embrace diverse consumers. My clients reflect this evolving landscape, spanning Black couples, Caucasian families, single Latinas, and even an Italian fashion house. I recognize that for many in the BIPOC community, wine appreciation is a more recent journey. Many of us didn't grow up with wine cellars in our homes or generations of wine lovers in our families. At Napa Valley Noir, I curate experiences for everyone—from newcomers to longtime aficionados—ensuring that each guest receives the same level of care and dedication. Whether it's a milestone birthday or anniversary, I may arrange a private home rental on a vineyard, an immersive culinary adventure in a wine cave or vineyard with live entertainment, or exclusive access to winery owners and winemakers. Luxury transportation, exotic car experiences, and helicopter tours are also within reach. One of my greatest joys is introducing seasoned wine enthusiasts to fresh, unexpected experiences in Napa and Sonoma. I also find fulfillment in helping people navigate Napa Valley's vast landscape of 400+ wineries—curating itineraries that align with their tastes and interests. And today, not every itinerary revolves around wine. Napa Valley and Sonoma can enchant visitors with exceptional mocktails and dealcoholized wines, proving that in the end, it's the region's natural beauty and tranquility that make them magical year-round escapes. With Napa Valley Noir, I make sure my clients—whether newcomers or longtime enthusiasts—get access to wineries where they'll feel welcomed, respected, and educated. It's not just about experiencing wine, but about feeling like you truly belong in wine country. I do feel like the wine industry loves me. I was fortunate that when I joined Alpha Omega in 2016, vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett encouraged me to join the Napa Valley Vintners Public Relations Committee, which I chaired the following year, and the Wine Institute's Marketing & Communications committee. I've worked closely with NVV on various initiatives. In 2017, I accompanied the Baggetts to Washington, D.C., for the Wine Institute's annual Washington Meeting where vintners get together with policymakers and regulators to discuss issues critical to a healthy and vibrant wine sector and attended a few of the Wine Institute's annual winter meetings in Pebble Beach. I was often the only Black face in the room and, as such, mingled with as many vintners as possible in hopes that by getting to know me, they would be encouraged to hire members of the BIPOC community in upper management roles. There is always room for improvement. I don't want to hear people in hiring positions say that they don't know where to find BIPOC candidates. Many wineries still struggle to market to diverse consumers. There has been a tremendous increase in the number of people of color working in the wine industry and pursuing careers in wine. In February 2025, I attended two gatherings for Napa Valley's growing Black wine community. I was one of the few who attended both, and at each event, I only knew a fraction of the guests. That speaks volumes about the exponential growth of Black wine professionals. And the number of Black-owned wine brands? It's nearly impossible to keep up! It seems like every day I discover another, which is fantastic. The increased focus on diversity—driven by DEI initiatives, though unfortunately, many of those have faded—along with the rise of organizations like Wine Unify, the Veraison Project, and The Roots Fund, has been phenomenal. Much of this growth is happening among women in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. But because meaningful change took so long to take root, the industry will be playing catch-up for quite some time. Still, progress is undeniable. From Leilani Baugh opening Vin en Noir in downtown Napa to the McBride Sisters purchasing a vineyard in Carneros, and the ever-growing number of Black women-owned wine brands, the future is bright. Or should I say… dark? Wine needs to be more approachable and less intimidating. Seeing fifteen descriptors on tasting notes is excessive—if someone picks up only a couple of flavors, that doesn't mean they don't know anything. The focus should be on enjoyment and how wine brings people together. One of the best examples of making wine relatable is a scene in the 2020 film Uncorked, where a Black man working in a wine shop compares varietals to hip-hop artists while helping a Black woman new to wine. Chardonnay is like Jay-Z, Kanye West like Pinot Grigio, and Drake like Riesling. It was a brilliant touch by writer/director Prentice Penny. Recognizing the tremendous spending power of people of color is crucial. At the same time, offering a tier of affordable wines is key. Most consumers will level up after being introduced to something new, but you have to get them in the door first. I applaud Malek Amrani, proprietor of The Vice, for making Napa Valley wines accessible without compromising quality. (Napa Valley, CA) Kelly E. Carter aboard the Napa Valley Wine Yacht on the Napa River Representation also matters—hiring more BIPOC professionals in visible positions, from sommeliers to winemakers to executives, will help reshape the industry's culture. Financial institutions play a major role too. Banks must offer people of color the same access to funding, at comparable interest rates, as they do for white entrepreneurs seeking to start or expand wine-related businesses. Lastly, wine education should be more accessible. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and community-driven events that welcome diverse audiences can help bridge the gap. The more people see themselves reflected in the industry, the more inclusive it will become. I always encourage people who want to work in wine to start their formal wine education as soon as possible—it not only deepens their knowledge but also positions them for better opportunities. I love what Anthony Mueller is doing. He left Robert Parker Wine Advocate, where he had been a reviewer since 2019, to start his own venture, that uses a free business model to help make reviews more accessible. Over the past five years, the wine industry has made strides in recognizing the importance of diversity, though there is still much work to be done. We've seen more initiatives aimed at increasing representation, from the birth of organizations like Wine Unify and The Roots Fund providing scholarships and mentorship to people of color, to wineries making a more conscious effort to create inclusive spaces. Some major wine competitions, media outlets, and trade organizations have also begun amplifying diverse voices and featuring a broader range of perspectives. However, true change requires more than surface-level gestures. While there are more Black and brown faces in tasting rooms, wine marketing campaigns, and panel discussions, the real progress will be measured by ownership and leadership opportunities. We need more people of color in executive roles, as winemakers, vineyard owners, and decision-makers. Ultimately, the industry is moving in the right direction, but there's still plenty of catching up to do. First, storytelling matters. Wine brands should showcase diverse winemakers, vineyard owners, and professionals in their marketing to show that the wine world is for everyone. Representation sparks interest. Hiring more people of color as wine professionals, placing them in high-profile positions, and amplifying their voices through industry events and media can make a significant impact. But it's not just wine brands that can help. Films such as Uncorked, which tells the story of a young Black man torn between his dream of becoming a master sommelier and his father's expectations that he'll take over the family barbecue business in Memphis, and television shows can raise awareness of wine to a diverse group of people. Second, wine needs to be part of lifestyle moments. Spirits brands seamlessly integrate into music, fashion, sports, and pop culture. Wine can do the same by hiring influencers and content creators of various ethnicities to bring awareness, as well as partnering with artists, chefs, and creatives who resonate with younger, diverse audiences. In 2024, the NBA and WNBA became partners with Kendall-Jackson, and La Crema, respectively, making parent company Jackson Family Wines look brilliant. Third, accessibility is key. Many young consumers are intimidated by traditional wine culture. I recently stumbled across a page on a prominent Napa Valley wineries website about how to have the best wine tasting experience. One tip is: 'Leave lipsticks, lip gloss, perfumes, and cologne at home.' OK, so I get it with perfumes and cologne because of the aromas, which can also affect others' experience. But makeup? As the website states, 'The taste of lipstick and lip gloss interacts poorly with wine (making it distasteful).' Try telling that to a female influencer with 500,000 followers not to wear lipstick. Sometimes the rules are just too much. Wine brands can also host interactive tastings in non-traditional spaces such as music festivals, brunch spots, or even sneaker stores, sponsor events in non-white communities and collaborate with organizations like Black wine groups. Additionally, multi-cultural marketing is as essential as actively recruiting from HBCUs to diversify the talent pipeline and consumer base. Finally, digital engagement is crucial. Social media should be more than just bottle shots—it should be storytelling, humor, behind-the-scenes vineyard content, and real conversations. Leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels can demystify wine and make it feel as dynamic as the spirits industry has made cocktails. The goal isn't to change wine itself—it's to change how it's perceived. When you make wine feel personal, inclusive, and fun, new consumers will follow. It's important that I continue to champion wine country tourism to diverse consumers, whether through curated experiences or media presence. I'm setting an example for women entrepreneurs, proving that there's space for more women—especially Black women—to lead in the luxury and wine tourism arenas. Napa Valley is a wonderful place to live—it's safe, beautiful, feels like a sophisticated farming community and people look out for one another. There's no shortage of entertainment, from concerts and festivals year-round to an ever-present art scene. The culinary scene is amazing, but I wish more restaurants had late-night kitchens. However, I like to rise early and watch the hot air balloons drift by my window, enjoy a hike or vineyard walk. One thing I didn't expect was the deep connection I've developed with nature. I love picking grapes during harvest. Living here has made me slow down and appreciate the beauty of my surroundings. That said, due to Napa's lack of diversity, it can feel isolating at times. And dating? Let's just say it's about as challenging as finding someone who knows how to style my hair. Well, it's not a varietal but if I drank nothing but Champagne for the rest of the year, I'd bubble over with excitement—and never run out of perfect food pairings. From oysters to fried chicken, Champagne makes every meal feel like a celebration. I have a t-shirt that reads 'Champagne & French Fries' with a heart emoji. It's been 20 years since I visited Reims. I'm long overdue for a return and trying to figure out how to go on Erin Riley's Be Bubbly Journey to Champagne. As you know, she's the Queen of Bubbles, and it would be fun to have her as my guide. I'd be a full-time writer. I co-authored a New York Times bestseller with tennis icon Venus Williams, Come to Win: Business Leaders, Artists, Doctors, and Other Visionaries on How Sports Can Help You Top Your Profession, and wrote National Geographic Book's The Dog Lover's Guide to Travel, which won a Lowell Thomas Award. Currently, I'm immersed in writing my memoir, Bellini for One, and in the early stages of an exciting collaboration with two phenomenal women on a new book project. Storytelling has always been my passion—whether through words or curated experiences. Kelly E. Carter wine tasting in Montalcino, Italy Some of my favorite wines are Argiano's Brunello di Montalcino, Ornellaia's Super Tuscans, Gaja's Barolos, Altamura's Nebbiolo from Napa Valley, which I always order when I dine at Ciccio in Yountville, anything Rudd Estate in Oakville produces but especially its Samantha's Cabernet Sauvignon, VGS Chateau Potelle Cabernet Sauvignon from Mt. Veeder, Mt. Brave's Cabernet Franc, Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Carmenère and Perinet's Vinya Mas del Xes Garnatxa from the Priorat. BRAND Napa Valley makes an amazing Proprietary Blend. For Chardonnay, two of my faves are Kistler and Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey. I have five pairs of 'Rosé All Day' shoes in various styles and can easily drink Le Féte du Rose and Domaine de la Bastide Blanche Rosé from Bandol all day. It's nearly impossible to choose just one, but a few Italian regions hold a special place in my heart. I love Montalcino—Napa's newest sister city—for its Brunellos, Valpolicella for its rich, velvety Amarones, and Barolo for the sheer seductiveness of Nebbiolo. During the 2023 holidays, I hosted a gathering and opened several bottles of 'older' wines. The hands-down favorite? A 2013 LVE Cabernet Sauvignon, a collaboration between John Legend and Raymond Vineyard in Napa Valley. Not only is the wine fantastic, but the marketing is just as impressive, with John actively promoting the brand and helping raise funds for Napa Valley. And for a non-alcoholic option, Kylie Minogue's alcohol-free sparkling Rosé truly sparkles. Traveling is my jam! I have a trophy map with push pins indicating where I've been across the globe. I'm itching to add my 49th country. Reading is my favorite pastime—I buy far more books than I have time to read, but I love supporting my writer friends. When I'm not working, I power walk in the vineyards as often as possible (got to burn off the calories from supporting Yountville's incredible restaurants!). And of course, I enjoy getting together with wine-loving friends, sharing great bottles and creating memories. That's what wine is all about, right?
CBS News
13-02-2025
- Climate
- CBS News
Residents along Russian River deal with long detours after road washed out
People who live and work in Guerneville and Forestville said they are enduring long detours after portions of a major road was washed into the Russian River from last week's storm. A looming bridge retrofit could make trips even longer. Nhi Haas works in the tasting room and is the wine club manager at Moshin Vineyards. The landslide in Forestville, which triggered a house to tumble into the Russian River on Feb. 4, led to longer commutes. "By the time I got home, it had been about 55 minutes and my commute is normally only 13 minutes," said Haas. The recent storms are impacting residents and businesses in the North Bay with road closures still in effect. One of three access points to the vineyard, West Side Road, is closed indefinitely as portions of it crumbled into the river. Residents aren't the only ones who have been impacted. "I still haven't seen UPS. Normally they get here around one or two, but I can imagine the road closures affecting them as well," said Haas. Wineries are already facing challenging times with sharp decreases in demand. Rick Moshin, a former teacher, is the owner and winemaker at Moshin Vineyards, in the heart of prime Pinot country. "West Side Road is the middle reach, so that's where you have most of the well-known Pinot producers, all within five miles of this location," said Moshin. The second access point to the vineyard and other homes is the historic Wohler Bridge, but it's set to undergo a major seismic retrofit in April. Closures due to the storm, paired with the bridge construction project about to get underway, could mean lengthy detours for many residents in Sonoma County. "If trucks, our barrel trucks, our glass trucks can't get through Wohler Bridge, they're going to have to go all the way up on the freeway to Healdsburg and turn around and come 10 miles down two-way windy roads, which is dangerous for them, dangerous for us, and a lot of bicyclists are on the road," said Janet Moshin. The pending bridge closure would mean a major detour and a one-hour commute for Guerneville residents, who would have to travel all the way north to Healdsburg and back. Rick Moshin is hoping the county can delay the bridge project. "That way would be easier access for employees and for customers that wanna get here," he said. But delaying the retrofit would jeopardize $17 million in funding and poses a safety hazard, according to Sonoma County Supervisor Lynda Hopkins. The supervisor is fighting to approve a temporary Bailey Bridge that would reduce commute times for businesses and residents. "It's really unfortunate to have these two infrastructure challenges right next to each other," said Hopkins. Hopkins said the temporary bridge will cost $300,000. Any fix besides shutting down two arteries would be welcomed by residents, surrounding vineyards, and employees. "Two hours within the day, I can't imagine what it would be like if you don't live around here and don't know the side streets," said Haas.
Yahoo
08-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Ivy Asia at St Paul's is the perfect spot for a luxury girls' night
If you're looking for a dining experience that screams luxury, glamour, and just the right amount of extra, The Ivy Asia at St. Paul's is the place to be. My friend and I went on Monday (February 3), to sample the menu, and let me tell you - this spot did not disappoint. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was striking. Entrance to The Ivy Asia (Image: Poppy Huggett) The glowing green floor, elegant cherry blossom trees, and ambient lighting created a sophisticated yet inviting space. Service was seamless, from the staff taking our coats at the door to our server Angela making us feel welcome immediately. The cherry blossom tree at the heart of the restaurant (Image: Poppy Huggett) We started our experience with the popcorn shrimp and the pork & kimchi gyozas - both packed with flavour and priced between £10-£13. The shrimp were crispy and light, paired with a gorgeous chilli mayonnaise, while the gyozas had a well-balanced spice and depth of flavour. Our starters for the evening (Image: Poppy Huggett) For mains, I went all out with the wok-fried lobster and duck fried rice. The spice level was high, but as a fan of all thing's chilli, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The main dishes (Image: Poppy Huggett) My friend opted for the nigiri sushi selection, and I couldn't resist stealing a bite of her snow crab gunkan. It was creamy, delicate, and melted in my mouth - absolute sushi perfection. Eight different types of sushi (Image: Poppy Huggett) On the side, we had the chilli noodles and the cucumber, peanut & coriander salad, which was super refreshing. And because no girls' night is complete without wine, we shared a crisp bottle of Pinot that paired beautifully with everything. My friend and I enjoying the bar at The Ivy Asia (Image: Poppy Huggett)The desserts were undoubtedly the highlight of my evening, each priced between £10 and £12 - a fair price for a gorgeous, exquisite treat. The desserts - my personal favourite (Image: Poppy Huggett) I had the Samurai - a dark chocolate mousse with chocolate brownie, elegantly dusted with golden sparkles. Rich and decadent, it was the perfect way to end the meal. My friend chose the Green Lantern, a white chocolate & honeycomb cheesecake with vanilla ice cream and chocolate pearls. The Ivy Asia is on the pricier side, but the experience justifies the cost. A stunning spot for dinner (Image: Poppy Huggett) Every dish was a treat, the service was impeccable, and the whole experience felt like stepping into a high-fashion fantasy. If you're looking for a night of indulgence, glamour, and unforgettable food, The Ivy Asia is so worth adding to your must-visit list.
