Truth told: the Grill Station at the Delta Bay Foundation’s Sunday Market would have failed were it not for Pattie Whitaker. 
The original idea for cooking burgers & dogs on a propane grill came from the market manager and general dogsbody who, it must be said, has not eaten meat in fifty years and never lit a grill in her entire life. Miss Pattie immediately saw the folly of letting such a disaster unfold before the dismayed eyes of the Sunday Market patrons. So first she corralled our favorite Frenchman, Monsieur Louis, and between the two of them, the Grill Station has become a popular stop for Market patrons.
Miss Pattie also sells delightful wares over on Market Row. From her Kettle Corn to her sweet bracelets to the Lavender Lovelies made by her friend, cohort, and neighbor Melissa Stolte, Miss Pattie’s table holds something for nearly everyone. (The Market Manager sports two Pattie Whitaker originals on her left wrist.)
The story of the lovely bracelets brings smiles to everyone who hears it. Though she does not like to boast about her dedication to family, Miss Pattie had the care of her elderly mother who suffered from dementia. Her mother required someone nearby at all times, both for her personal needs and for the emotional support that a calm presence provided. So her devoted daughter started making bracelets. The handiwork offered a calming influence for the aging lady, and produced a unique and gorgeous array of beaded baubles. Reasonably priced, delicate or chunky and colorful, Miss Pattie’s bracelets offer an affordable and stylish gift for yourself or a friend.
While you’re at the table, treat yourself to a freshly popped bag of Kettle Corn from Miss Pattie’s kitchen, and browse Melissa Stolte’s lavender products, the luscious soaps, soothing linen spray, nourishing hand-sanitizer and more. Then, stroll down to the Grill Station and get yourself what has been described as the Best Burger on the Loop! Cheese or not; slices of tomatoes from the produce stand, and your favorite condiment round out your burger or hotdog. Then plop down under the Pop-Up Rest Stop with a cold drink and an ice cream from the Ice Cream Ladies, and listen to Josh Jakubowski “playing real good” though not quite for free — throw some money in the jar!
The Sunday Market has just three more weeks for the 2020 season. It takes place this Sunday, August 16, the 23rd, and the 30th. Market hours are 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In case of severe heat, market vendors reserve the right to pack up early. Most vendors are cash only. The Market is set up for social distancing. Vendors wear masks during exchanges with customers. Please bring your mask and be prepared to wear it when you cannot maintain six feet between yourself and non-cohorts. The Sunday Market is sponsored and organized by the Delta Bay Foundation, a California 501(c)(3) not-for-profit dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the California Delta. See you at the #SundayMarket!
