Got Picon?
It is a dangerous thing. A Basque beverage served in the Basque restaurants here and is no doubt an acquired taste.
Winnemucca, NV not only is the only town in Nevada (remember it is Nevada not Nevahda), named after a Native American (Chief Winnemucca) but also is a major Basque community. Apparently, back in the 1800's the Basque and their sheep made it out here and decided this was the place to raise and herd sheep. A good number of the folk here have Basque ancestry. And they are proud of it. This is a tight community. But, as for having actually been asked "What are you?" the folks I spoke to, never have been.
One gentleman said that he looked too Scottish (and he did) so no one ever asked him about it, but when he told folks that he was half Basque and came from a family of sheepherders, it usually was a surprise: "You're what?".
A shopowner I spoke to had also never been asked but she was of Basque decent and would gladly tell you if asked. She does not speak the language as her ancestors were so proud and intent to be Americans that they learned English and never went back. There appear to only be a handful of folks who still speak the language, but there are a number of Basque restaurants here and a festival in June.
In the end, I can now honestly say that I have had sweetbreads (one of my dad's favorite entrees)...I actually liked them(!) And should you come to Winnemucca, you cannot leave without trying the lamb...and you must have a Picon!
Tomorrow we move on to Sacramento...and the adventure continues!
Peace --Alex
posted by funkweee @ 9:29 PM
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