REGGIE

A GUEST AUTHOR’s HARVEST STORY

SAN RAFAEL CLUB (881 CLUB) SAN RAFAEL, CA

J Eric Freedner

Hi, Reggie,

Here is another chipping story, all true of course!

I had heard that it was difficult to buy a chip from the San Rafael Club in San Rafael; it was a small cardroom, limited hours, and management did not favor selling to collectors. Still, toward the end of one of my chip trips to the Petaluma area several years ago, I decided to give it a try. I had gotten the club address before starting my trip, which is fortunate because the 881 Club is not at number 881 on any street any more. My internet search led me to a brief history of the club, started by Pete Pellolio years ago.

Upon entering the building, I paused in the foyer between the bar and the cardroom to look at a portrait on the wall. Unexpectedly, a man came to the cardroom doorway and asked, "May I help you?"

"Is this Pete?" I said somewhat absent-mindedly, pointing to the portrait. "Yes," he replied, "Did you know Pete?"

"No," I replied, "but I heard he had started the club years ago, and kept the business going for many years, and was respected in the community."

"Want to play some cards?" the man asked.

"Actually, no; I was wondering if I could just buy a few chips, I collect them."

The man gave a non-committal look and then smiled. "We have a strict policy, no sales to collectors. But since you spoke so highly of my father, I can sell you a few."

My visit ended with a hearty handshake and a smile from the new owner, and his invitation to "come back any time." And a few of the elusive Club San Rafael chips in my pocket.

Sometimes, it pays to admire the artwork.

Don't have time to drive up to San Rafael to see Pete's portrait? I didn't know this chip existed at the time, but you can view it here: ChipGuide # CG 023545.

J. Eric Freedner