Sierra Seasons Magazine - Summer/Fall 2012 by Hukari Designs

Seasonings: Culinary Classes Food Pairings

Summer/Fall 2012

Rangelands foR Movie Making Composting â&#x20AC;˘ Restoring Gold Rush Homes â&#x20AC;˘ Energy Habitat

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FROM

THE

EDITOR

Hats off to our talented local writers and photographers who continue to provide exceptional stories and images of the celebrated Mother Lode. We welcome Erin Pollen who wrote our gardening feature about how to successfully compost, an article I myself needed desperately as my original compost pile of 13 years ago still sits in wait. Another welcome goes out to Anne Mendenhall, an active spinner and weaver, who tells us the color-full story behind the Mother Lode Spinners and Weavers Guild. Good friend and writer, Bonnie Miller, also joins our team writing about the incredible art exhibit coming to the Central Sierra Arts Council. Think “llama.” And as always, we bring you green – the precise process involved with historic renovations of Gold Rush era buildings, how Habitat for Humanity continues its green mission adding solar panels to the Columbia project, and all of the glorious green offerings during September’s Sierra Greeen Days in Murphys. Let this issue be your summer/fall guide to the tremendous array of places to go, places to stay, people to meet, businesses to frequent, community events to attend and the top “bucket list” of things to do, coined by Dean Fleming in the recreation feature. We hope you enjoy every minute of your summer and every minute reading Central Sierra Seasons!!!

Jan Hovey, editor 4

COURTESY GEORGE CALDWELL

I GET THE SAME FEELING before every issue of Central Sierra Seasons comes out. I just can’t wait to tell you, our readers, about what we have in store for you. I have been called “effusive” many a time, so I’ll try to tone down my excitement (and exclamation points), but that will be hard because there is so much in this Summer/Fall edition that will entertain, inform and enlighten you.

From Sonora to Peru, Gerge Caldwell makes a community connection with his llamas. See page 10. Also, Tuolumne Farm Tour visits a llama ranch in July. See page 41

CENTRAL SIERRA SEASONS MAGAZINE Publisher: Don Hukari Editor: Jan Hovey Design: Hukari Designs Events Editor: Judy Stoltenberg Hukari Designs: Post Office Box 3306 Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 928-3009 Distribution Department: 17877 Yosemite Road Tuolumne, CA 95379 Advertising Representatives: Tuolumne & Stanislaus CountiesKen Jay Tuolumne & Calaveras CountiesDiane Del Priore

COVER– The Sardella Ranch, scene for many movies. See page 60. Ron Pickup tells the story with his words and photographs. INSET: The Culinary Arts program at Columbia College. See page 24.

CEN add Son All tho

S u m m e r / F a l l

Destination: Summer Top Ten Summer Bucket List Great Escapes

–Head for the hills

Touring Historical Markers Green Living

12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 –Must do . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

–History on Highway 49

.....

Secrets of Garden Composting –Fall gardening . . . . . . . . .48 Habitat Goes Green –Energy efficiency for humanity . . . . . . . . .49 Restoring History –Homes from the past . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Greeen Days –3 E’s for energy, ecology economy . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

HUKARI

Rangeland for Movie Making

–Economic resource

.....

Coming Home –Family restaurateur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Culinary Arts –Columbia College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 New World Nativity –From after the Gold Rush . . . . 25 Seasonings –Foothill food pairings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Museums –Coulterville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Sonora to Peru –A llama story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Spinners and Weavers –Local guild . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Pairing food with wine and beer, see page 26.

COMMUNITY FOCUS Angels Camp -Home to Jumping Frogs . . 7

D E PA R T M E N T S

Copperopolis -New town, old town . . . . . 8

Regional Map . . . . . 32

Arnold/Ebbetts Pass -Big Trees . . . . . . . 10

Events Calendar . . . 38

Upper 108 -Sonora Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Dining Directory . . 52

Sonora -Shop & Dine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Lodging Guide . . . . 54 Business Updates . . 56 Advertisers Index . . 62

The new Copperopolis Town Square revives a nostalgic town feeling. See page 8.

Reader Service . . . . 62

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2 0 1 2

Murphys -Main Street Charm . . . . . . . . . 20 Highway 26 -Valley Springs to Moke Hill 23 Highway 120 -Oakdale to Yosemite . . . 30 Columbia -State Historic Park . . . . . . . . 47

CENTRAL SIERRA SEASONS MAGAZINE is published two times a year. Subscription rate is $12.00 for 4 issues to U.S. addresses. Single copies and back issues: $2.50. Send all remittances and inquiries to: Hukari Designs; Post Office Box 3306; Sonora, CA 95370; (209)928-3009. www.sierraseasons.com. Volume 25, Number 1, Copyright © May 2012 by Hukari Designs. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of publisher is prohibited. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not of Hukari Designs. Claims made in advertising are the responsibility of the advertiser.

Wineries -Murphys Wine Tasting . . . . . . 52 Jamestown -Railtown & Antiques . . . . . . 5 5

INSIDE SEASONS

Spotlight – Johanna Atman By Jan Hovey It is our pleasure to introduce you to one of our regular contributors, Johanna Atman, CMT, Ph.D. Johanna has had many experiences in her life as a social worker, vineyard pruner, machinist and hitchhiker around the Mediterranean from Morocco to Turkey by herself, but to people who know her through Whole Life Therapies, Johanna is the person who enhances their quality of life through a wide range of powerful processes supporting health and well being. Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Johanna graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964 and got early exposure to thinking outside the box working with futuristic thinkers in Cambridge, Mass. like Buckminster Fuller, creator the geodesic dome. “I studied philosophy and psychology in college and later bodywork classes, relating the body with the brain, that brought it all together for me,” she remarked. “The information that is now available about our emotions, brain chemistry, how we can heal and effect change is inspiring!” “A profound realization for me was that transformation really happens in your body, not from a concept in the mind,” she recalled. “In the mid ‘80s I began using bodywork as a great doorway into the individual.” Another revelation happened then: “We are a self-supporting organism that centers around a life purpose. Whole Life Therapies grew out of who I was and what I needed to learn.” Johanna moved to California’s Sierra Foothills in 1969. One year later she bought land in Calaveras County, built a house with no power tools and lived off the grid for 40 years. Johanna continues to research different types of treatments to help heal physical, emotional, mental and spiritual issues. Johanna’s life passion is woven like a fine piece of art at Whole Life Therapies located at 150 Big Trees Road in Murphys. Here you’ll find deep bodywork, the light hands-on approach of Cranio-Sacral Therapy, Esogetic Colorpuncture (light frequencies on acupoints), flower essences, essential oils, meditative tools, Reiki and Rosen Method massage techniques and Hypnotherapy Bodywork, as well as Medical Massage, a new offering to help those with chronic pain and injuries. She also shares the most powerful tools in classes, workshops and retreats. Johanna is a founder and coordinator for Sierra Greeen Days (yes, three “e’s” for energy, ecology and economy). The two-day event takes place Sept. 29 and 30 this year at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys with a focus on greater self-reliance as a community. See Johanna’s article on page 51. “The first year was quite successful and then we added components such as the Green Village with more than 100 vendors,” she said. “We moved it to fall so that everything can be in the amphitheater.” In addition to starting Greeen Days, Johanna also founded the Calaveras Business Network International group, Murphys Highway 4 Success. “We have made more than $1 million in referrals,” she beamed. “That’s pretty impressive especially in a challenging economy.” “If you follow what draws you, it will lead you to where you need to be,” she muses. Surely, Johanna was drawn to help heal the body, mind and spirit and to be an active community messenger spreading the green word. Johanna can be reached at 728-3569. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contributing Writers: Johanna Atman, Tom Bender, Dean Fleming, Patricia Harrelson, Bob Holton, Jan Hovey, Anne Mendenhall, Bonnie Miller, Amy Nilson, Ron Pickup, Erin Pollen, Frank Priscaro, Jan Smidiger, Mark Stoltenberg Photographers: Tom Bender, Dave Bonnot, Dave and Dianne Photography, George Caldwell, Dean Fleming, Bob Holton, Jan Hovey, Don Hukari, Amy Nilson, Ron Pickup, Erin Pollen, Phil Schermeister, Judy Stoltenberg

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annual events June 13 – Music in the Park

Calaveras Arts Council series with Coyote Hill, 6pm

June 23 – Art & Jazz on the Square

Art show, music in the gazebo from 10am to 4pm

August 4 – Summerfest

Summer fun dress for wet play! from10am to 6pm

September Saturday Concerts

6:30 to 9:30pm Free concert, $5 per car parking Bring a lawn chair or call for table reservation: 209-785-9700 September 1 – Journey Revisited tribute band September 8 – Josh Pfeiffer American Crooner September 15 – Joni Morris tribute to legendary ladies September 22 – The Rock Show with John Campanella September 29 – Boys of Summer tribute to the Eagles

November 24 – Old-Fashioned Holiday

Music and horse drawn carriage rides with Santa

January – Chili Cook-Off February – Dog Days April – Easter Celebration May – Hot Copper Car Show

www.CopperopolisTownSquare.com 866.276.4235 Highway 4 • Copperopolis, California

H IG H LIG HTS New Wine Cellar in Copper Copper Cellars recently opened in Copperopolis Town Square at 308 Town Square Road, showcasing select vineyards from the Sierra Foothills. Copper Cellars celebrates good taste with an array of locallyproduced wines that are difficult to find because these vineyards are not producing for mass consumption. Attracting both novices and aficionados, the business is a casual, educational and fun tasting experience. Copper Cellars is owned and operated by Doug and Rebecca Halvorsen, who have been residents of Twain Harte for more than 30 years.

Kitchen Store and More Fancy Pans Kitchen & Gifts located at 530 Egan Street in Copperopolis Town Square offers unique gadgets and gifts, as well as a wide variety of specialty pans for that special chef in your family. If you’re looking for delicious jams, jellies, sauces, marinades or baking mixes, this is the place to find them. Fancy Pans showcases several product lines that include Stonewall Kitchen, Earth and Vine, Wine Country Kitchen and Barefoot Contessa. “New to our store, which we are very excited to offer,” said owner Leslie Watkins, “are sea salts from all over the world! We invite people to come in and see all that we have here; it’s a great kitchen store.” Fancy Pans is open daily from 11am to 5pm. For more information, call 785-7300.

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ARNOLD Gateway to the Big Trees and Ebbetts Pass Park once and shop along our easy-to-stroll sidewalks Visit these fine merchants Action Realty • Meadowmont Pharmacy Big Trees Market • Arnold Medical Center Subway Sandwiches • Round Table Pizza Arnold Chinese Restaurant Calaveras Humane Society Thrift Shop

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The Central Sierra’s

Top TEN SummER BuckET L By Dean Fleming

ITH SO MANY OPTIONS FOR

DEAN FLEMING

Adventure Company in downtown Sonora or (with some degree of hassle) at various locations within the National Park. OUTDOOR RECREATION IN THE CENMore information on Yosemite National Park regulations can be found at www.nps.gov/yos/. TRAL SIERRA, the crux of many sum2 – Kayak Lake Alpine mer vacations can be choosing from the At 7,400 feet in elevation, Lake Alpine is a welcome enormous list of possible activities and locations. retreat from the sweltering foothill heat. With excellent camping, fishing, boating and hiking, Lake Alpine has been considLike a pasta lover in Italy, Mother Lode outdoor ered one of the premiere summer destinations for California’s enthusiasts are often overwhelmed by the sheer high-elevation outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the normal lake-side recreation opportunities, Lake Alpine is perhaps most vastness of the region’s wilderness. But we consider well known for its hassle-free kayaking. Two features of Lake ourselves lucky, for the menu is never-ending and Alpine perfectly suite it to a day (or weekend) of kayaking. The shores of Lake Alpine are mere inches from Highway 4, the quality is always five stars. making unloading and shuttling kayaks a breeze. Second, the lake has numerous rocky islands near its center that make for great stopping points and picnic sites. Lake Alpine is a stones It is impossible to quantify the perfect Central Sierra sumthrow from the alpine community of Bear Valley. Kayak mer into ten easily accessible destinations. But, if it’s your first rentals are available at Sierra trip to this plentiful region – or you’re lookNevada Adventure Co. in ing for a classic weekend getaway you may Arnold (snacattack.com), Bear have overlooked - there are a few stand-out Valley Adventure Co. (bearvalscenarios that top the charts. This season we leyxc.com) and Lake Alpine decided to get picky with our helpings and Resort (lakealpinelodge.com). compile a top ten Central Sierra bucket list: a selection of summer activities that are so 3 – Mountain Bike at Bear iconic to this extraordinary region that they Valley Resort simply cannot be missed. For even the most dedicated mountain bikers, the thought of 1 – Hike the Grand Canyon of the slogging up a steep slope with a Tuolumne River heavy mountain bike in tow keeps many users from enjoying Hiking the Grand Canyon of the some of the Sierra’s best downhill Tuolumne is the quintessence of the Sierra tracks. With 360-degree views Nevada experience. The trail involves both from the 8,500-foot summit ridgesweeping panoramic vistas and exploratory Bear Valley Resort has adapted their ski lifts for bicycles. line and summer admission via hiking atop of one of the largest exposed secski lifts, the ski runs at Bear Valley make for some of the countions of granitic rock on Planet Earth. One hiker noted that ty’s most easily accessible summer/fall mountain biking trails. “The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne seems astonishingly remote, especially when one recalls that it is nestled in the Ranging in difficulty from easy to expert, Bear Valley’s heart of Yosemite National Park. The scenery is breath-taking mountain biking trails include Tuck’s Run, Water Tank, Koala and the trail is challenging in terms of elevation change and Access, Power-line, Corral Hollow and the Upper and Lower rewarding for its views and swimming holes.” Elusive. Summer lift ticket prices at Bear Valley check in at surprisingly low $25 for mountain bikers and a mere $10 for The trail is less defined in some areas but generally consists hikers. The trails available in summer and fall more than comof 35 to 40 miles of moderate-to-difficult terrain. Average pensate for these relatively low ticket prices. For more inforteams will usually complete the hike in three days, but many mation on mountain biking at Bear Valley, visit set aside plenty of time for swimming and fishing. A bear canbearvalley.com. ister is mandatory and can be rented at Sierra Nevada

MOANING CAVERN

DAVE BONNOT

T LIST

Waterwheel Falls on the upper Tuolumne River canyon in Yosemite National Park.

4 – Play at Pinecrest Lake The Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail is among the easiest hiking trails in the Sonora Pass area. Most of its popularity stems from its extremely easy access, flat gradient and splendid views. These features make the Pinecrest Loop Trail a great start for the entry level hiker. The trail is approximately four miles of Mineral formation at Moaning Cavern Park well maintained pathway that takes the average hiker about two hours to navigate, although allowing more than three hours for swimming and picnicking along the way is strongly encouraged. Some people disregard Pinecrest after the first snow falls but the truth is, this loop trail is usually clear from snow and travelable until late fall. Other activities in Pinecrest include camping, fishing, swimming and boating. All the amenities for a fantastic weekend are available at the Pinecrest Lake dock, grocery store and campground. Pinecrest is also home to lodges and vacation rentals. For a nice Saturday night dinner, walk over the Steam Donkey restaurant and bar for one of Tuolumne County’s best burgers and other relatively inexpensive fine dining options. 5 – Go Bouldering at Highway 4’s Hells Kitchen Calaveras County’s Highway 4 is littered with house-sized chunks of glacially polished, orange and black-streaked granite.

Gaining in popularity with each passing season, the sport of bouldering was once considered nothing more than a way to practice for longer rock climbs. Today, without the hassle of ropes or heavy equipment, the boulderer simply finds a piece of rock that suites his or her climbing style, lays down a thick crash-pad (a mattress-type device used to soften falls) and begins climbing. The Hells Kitchen bouldering area off Highway 4 may seem small and off the beaten path, yet even when compared alongside some of California’s most famous bouldering areas, local climbers and visitors alike consider the climbing on Highway 4 to be of excellent quality. In fact, Hells Kitchen has gained so much popularity that the Bear Valley-based guide service, Mountain Adventure Seminars, has hosted several small but very successful climbing festivals at this location. To get a handhold on rock climbing and bouldering, contact the guide service Mountain Adventure Seminars at www.mtadventure.com. 6 – Take a cave tour Moaning Cavern has fun written all over it! With a 1,500 foot zip-line, 165 foot underground rappel, extensive cave tours and a 32-foot rock climbing wall, not only does this area host fun activities for the whole family, Moaning Cavern also provides cheap camping ($10 a night) within a few minutes of some other amazing outdoor recreation areas. Moaning Cavern is located at 5350 Moaning Cave Road in Vallecito. Phone (866) 762-2837 for information or visit www.cavetours.com. Mercer Caverns is conveniently located in the town of Murphys. With multi-room underground chambers descending as far as a 16-story building, this three million-year-old cavern is viewed by a 45-minute tour. Guides point out the cave’s fancontinued on page 14 13

continued from page 13

tastic geologic features like stalactites and reference this area’s teeming historic value. Mercer Caverns is Rafting on the Tuolumne River located at 1665 Sheep Ranch Road. Phone (209) 728-2101 for information or visit www.mercercaverns.com. California Cavern, located outside San Andreas, offers some truly unique underground adventures. With three spectacular underground lakes, visitors have the option of touring the cave via a one-hour walking tour, or embarking on a fivehour rafting tour. Showers are available on site (a welcome amenity after a muddy cave tour), as well as a picnic area with gemstone mining. California Cavern is located at 9565 Cave City Road in Mountain Ranch. Phone 736-2708 for information or visit www.cavetours.com. Black Chasm is considered a National Natural Landmark, with several multi-room underground chambers with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and rare helictite crystals. A 50minute tour traverses the cavern including a suspended walkway that overlooks portions of an underground lake. A large visitor center and picnic area with gold panning adorns the above-ground portion of this must-see location. Black Chasm is located at 15701 Pioneer-Volcano Road in Volcano. Groups can make reservations at 866-762-2837 or visit www.cavetours.com. 7 – Picnic-a-Dome in Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows As a glacier moves steadily along the surface of the earth it plucks large boulders of rock from the surrounding hillsides and cliffs. The massive glaciers in Tuolumne Meadows had the momentum to move these blocks for thousands of feet. When the boulders came in contact with Tuolumne’s large domes of granite, the rocks rubbed and scraped along the slabs, polishing the domes to a glass-like finish. When the glaciers receded, many of the large boulders once carried by the ice flow were

COURTESY EVERGREEN LODGE

LEDER ADAMS

Top Ten Summer Bucket List

Carlon Falls near the north entrance to Yosemite on Evergreen Road offers a cool swimming hole in the summer.

deposited in strange places – like directly atop some pretty precarious cliffs and rock formations. These boulders are called erratics and highlight many Tuolumne Meadows hikes. One of the best ways to experience Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows is to hike a lunch to the top of a granite dome. The best views usually come from the larger domes like Fairview and Lambert Dome; however, some truly mild walks can lead visitors to some spectacular locations atop the smaller formations. One of the most easily accessible domes is known as Pothole Dome. This relative bump (when compared to the larger formations) is located just west of and across the street from the Tuolumne Meadows Gas Station. For more information on Yosemite National Park and the Tuolumne Meadows area visit www.nps.gov/yos/. 8 – Raft the Tuolumne River The Tuolumne River is largely regarded for its immense beauty and unhindered wildlife. From the snowmelts of Mounts Dana and Lyell in Yosemite National Park, to the flats of Don Pedro Reservoir the entire stretch of the Tuolumne is considered one of the most valuable recreation resources in California. The stream suits outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels and genres; however, one particular section off Lumsden Road outside of Groveland is best known for whitewater kayaking and rafting. Lumsden Road winds down an incredibly steep section of the Tuolumne River Canyon. On the canyon floor there are a few well-maintained and obviously welltrafficked boat-launches. The first of these areas is about 1,000 feet from the point where Lumsden Road reaches the Tuolumne basin. This site is furnished

Highway 120 through Tuolumne Meadows on Tioga Pass in Yosemite has huge rock formations for climbing and viewing.

with bathrooms and campgrounds. From this point to the confluence of the Clavey River is a fairly mild run (depending on water flow of course) for experienced rafters. The upper portion of Tuolumne River above Lumsden Road features some hair-raising terrain for experienced boaters. One feature in particular is often avoided by even the most experienced kayakers and rafters. With huge drops, large rocks and continuous rapids, Lumsden Falls, is a solid class V rapid (the hardest on the scale being class VI) and should only be attempted by advanced boaters. If you have any doubts about your skill level, contact a professional guide service like OARS (www.oars.com) and Zephyr (www.zrafting.com). 9 – Climb the 3000 foot granite rock face of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley - or watch from El Cap Meadow Each year, hundreds of people spend their life savings and travel across the globe to tackle what is largely regarded as the most spectacular granite cliff in the world. Yosemite’s El Capitan juts dramatically from the valley floor soaring nearly 3,000 feet to its flat-topped summit, and if you’re a climber, it doesn’t get any better. Solid golden walls of sparkling granite, dazzling rock features, iconic and historically significant sections of climbing and wild exposure make up nearly all of El Capitan’s more than 70 established climbing routes. Hundreds of people climb (or attempt to climb) a base-tosummit route on El Cap each year. But that doesn’t make the feat any less intimidating. Climbing El Cap is such a significant feat that very experienced climbers (including this author, who has logged more than 200 days of technical rock climbing a year for nearly 17 years) have only daydreamed of pulling over El Capitan’s wild summit. It may sound strange, but to get a sense for climbing on El Capitan, you don’t necessarily need to tie into a rope and launch onto the sheer rock face. Lounging in a chair in El Capitan Meadow with a pair of binoculars is plenty of excitement for most people. During a busy summer day, more then

DEAN FLEMING

15 groups of brightly-clothed climbers can easily been seen from the valley floor with a cheap pair of binoculars. To explore the colorful history of Yosemite climbing, visit www.yosemiteclimbing.org. 10 – Discover a swimming hole None-native Californians have documented the Central Sierra’s river canyons for over 150 years. Combine that fact with our knowledge of Native American history and you will quickly realize that to truly uncover a “new” section of river in California is a near-impossibility. But discovery isn’t about the human race – it’s about the human spirit. Visiting a location that’s new to you is among the most rewarding feelings a person can encounter. The South Grove of Big Trees State Park in Calaveras County meanders beside the wonderful, yet often overlooked Beaver Creek. Teeming with wildlife in a dramatic setting of old growth forest, this stream is not to be missed. Another noteworthy excursion takes visitors through 3.8 miles of interesting hiking trail to Yosemite’s Carlon Falls. This striking diagonal shaped waterfall on the South Fork of the Tuolumne River is not exactly a secret spot, but compared to other Yosemite sights this quaint swimming hole is a welcome retreat. For more info on Big Trees State Park visit www.parks.ca.gov then type Big Trees into the search engine. California summers are known for their predictable weather, yet the activities and adventures we embark on are far from typical. This summer you may be speeding down the trails on a mountain bike or strolling up a moderate grade with a walking stick and camera. You could be tackling the harrowing granite walls of Yosemite Valley or wading into the cool waters of an unfamiliar pool. But no matter what your favorite outdoor activity is, and even if you strike just one of these iconic destinations off your list, you are sure to come away with another great Central Sierra summer - and the notion that these foothills truly are the gateway to unlimited outdoor recreation options. 15

The beach at Pinecrest Lake Resort leads to the trail around the lake.

DON HUKARI

Highway 108 - Sonora Pass

FoR GREaT EScapES, hEaD FoR ThE hILLS! By Amy Nilson

The new swimming pool at Evergreen Lodge, on the Yosemite Park border.

WHETHER

DON HUKARI

YOUR IDEA OF A GREAT GETAWAY is non-stop action, peace and solitude or a balance of both, the Central Sierra offers great choices for all ages and inclinations. And no matter what your taste, your summer escape will come complete with crisp mountain air, sun drenched afternoons, stunning sunsets and starry skies. We’ve spotlight three favorite escapes from north to south to get you in the mood. Take a look; then head for the hills!

The Caddy Shack at Greenhorn Creek provides a perfect golf escape.

Greenhorn creek’s caddy Shack GreenhornCreek.com, 729-8111 Want something completely different for a group of friends or family? Consider a stay right on the golf course at beautiful Greenhorn Creek Resort in Angels Camp. The newly refurbished Caddy Shack offers a memorable setting and luxurious accommodations. It’s a fun, affordable, five-bedroom lodge, for groups of up to 12, adjacent to Hole No. 9, near the Greenhorn Creek clubhouse and Camps Restaurant. Fun for golfers and non-golfers alike, the spacious layout includes a shared lounge, ample kitchen and two bathrooms, as well as a fenced patio and BBQ area and horseshoe pit. It is especially convenient for golfers, with golf carts at your door and a driving range close by. Other resort lodging is also available for couples, foursomes and tournament groups.

pinecrest Lake Resort

Evergreen Lodge

PinecrestLakeResort.com, 965-3411 Tucked among towering evergreens, with beautiful Pinecrest Lake just 100 yards away, this historic resort offers a great place to make memories. “People come here generation after generation,” said General Manager Laurie Cashman. “We’ve been here since 1922, and we’re a very traditional, family oriented place. People come here to enjoy, relax and take time with family and friends.” A choice of accommodations ranges from rustic family cabins to modern townhouses all with full kitchens and outdoor barbecues, as well as comfortable traditional motel rooms in the main lodge. With each, you’re steps from the full-service marina, swimming beach and tennis courts, as well as many alpine, lakeside and riverside trials for all ages and abilities. And the nearby Steam Donkey restaurant and full service market offer easy convenience. Located adjacent to a large Forest Service campground, the resort is busy and fun in the summer, but always keeps a relaxed, friendly feel. Make your reservations early.

EvergreenLodge.com, 379-2606 Looking for a secluded getaway in the woods where you can savor the splendor of Yosemite but escape its crowds? That’s what you get at the historic Evergreen Lodge, gaining renown as a hidden gem located just eight miles from the northern entrance to Yosemite National Park and a short distance to hiking trails at Hetch Hetchy. After two major expansions the property now includes 90 fully-furnished cabins, beautiful patios and gardens, a recreation room and fireside lodge, outdoor play areas, a full-service tavern, and new this spring, a large salt-water swimming pool and spa. Owners Brian Anderluh, Dan Braun and Lee Zimmerman have been steadily expanding and improving the Evergreen and are attracting growing attention as a top-rated resort with mountain charm, easy-going hospitality and world class recreation. For a list of lodging, check with the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau, (800)446-1333, yosemitegoldcountry.com, and the Calaveras County Visitors Bureau, (800)225-3764, GoCalaveras.com. 17

Food and Family Bring Restaurateur Home Story by Amy Nilson Dino Tasiopoulos takes a break from the dining room at his family’s restaurant.

DINO TASIOPOULOS WAS PRETTY MUCH RAISED AT HIS FAMILY’S Sonora restaurant. Now called Gus’s Steakhouse, after his father, it is well into its third decade as a local institution. “Probably 75 to 80 percent of our customers are regulars, and a lot of them have known me since I was just a kid,” Dino said from his post at the front desk. “We moved here from San Jose when I was 10 and I was always here working with my dad, so they watched me grow up. Our customers are like family.” Now 41 and a father himself, he is carrying on the tradition, letting his own eager 8-year-old, Aidan, help set tables, count out menus and greet early afternoon customers. Dino returned to Gus’s three years ago, after being gone for many years. His parents leased out their original Sonora Joe’s restaurant in 1989 after Dino graduated from Sonora High School, and all three moved to Lodi for several years where they had another restaurant. But eventually they opted to return to Sonora, took back the steak house, refurbished and renamed it. Dino, meanwhile had married his wife, Meredith, and moved to Jackson with her three daughters to live closer to her family. They had their son, and Dino stayed in the restaurant business working first for a restaurant distributor and later as head chef for the Castle Oaks Country Club in Amador County. Then in 2010, Dino’s parents invited him to rejoin Gus’s as manager. He took the job and has been commuting from Jackson while his youngest step daughter finishes high school.

“We’ll be moving back to Sonora soon,” he said, “and I’m looking forward to that. Sonora has changed so much since I went to school here, but it’s still a good place to grow up and a good place to raise a family. I like the small schools. Everybody knows everybody.” He also enjoys working with his parents and keeping up the traditions of the restaurant and their closeknit Greek family. Dino’s parents emigrated from Greece and he grew up speaking Greek as his first language. It’s still what he speaks with his parents. “We’ve always had a good relationship,” Dino said with a smile. “We butt heads sometimes, but we work it out. He wants me to take over when he retires, but he’ll never retire!” Dino likes working in the kitchen best, the challenge of keeping up a fast pace and the creative aspects. The menu is traditional steak house and also offers seafood, pasta, specials and full-service catering. He knows the ingredients of a good restaurant. How do you stay in business 30-plus years? “Good quality, enough food, good prices…and no short cuts!” he says. “It works.” Gus’s Steakhouse is located at 1183 Mono Way in Sonora and phone number is 532-5190.

“Coming Home,” showcases local residents raised in our area, who went away to college and returned home to successful careers. We hope this column will inspire young adults and our community that having the privilege of this rural lifestyle doesn’t have to stop after higher education.

JUDY STOLTENBERG

C OMING H OME —————————————

onora S

JUDY STOLTENBERG

Hub of Tuolumne County . . .

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Calaveras County is in the heart of Northern California Wine Country. Get a taste of California’s Historic Gold Country, where vineyard tours are more intimate, uncrowded and the California wines - exceptional. You can call the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance at 866-806-9463 (WINE), or 728-9467 for a free color brochure or visit www.calaveraswines.org and explore their unique Calaveras County wineries online. Irish Hovey

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New Gallery in Moke Hill A new gallery has sprouted just off historic Highway 49 in Mokelumne Hill. Petroglyphe Gallery is set in one of Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original gold mining towns in a newly renovated building first constructed in 1858. The artists haven is full of natural light and subtle architectural details which accentuate every piece in the gallery. The gallery features original contemporary works of art in opil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, ceramic, jewelry and other media from artists throughout North America as well as many local artists. Petroglyphe Gallery is located across the street form the Historic Hotel Leger at 8317 Main Street, Mokelumne Hill. Hours are Thursday through Daturday from 11:30am to 5:30pm, and Sunday 11:30am to 4pm. Call 286-1387 for more information.

h Nort veras Cala ty Coun

PHIL SCHERMEISTER

CULINARY ARTS SHINE AT COLUMBIA COLLEGE

By Patricia Harrelson

ON MONDAY

MORNING, THE AROMA OF FRESH BAKED BREAD WAFTS

from the ground level of the Manzanita Building over the San Diego Reservoir at the center of the Columbia College campus. Upstairs students and staff find their mouths watering as the scent of cinnamon rolls and chocolate chip cookies floats through the building’s ventilation system. The Bakery is open for business. Students from the Culinary Arts Program have been baking since 6 a.m., and the fragrance of yeast breads and brownies emanating from the ovens is the only advertisement needed to bring customers flocking to a non-descript door beside the College bookstore. Through the door, student bakers and chefs in tall white caps and starched aprons move through two gleaming kitchens where they learn both production and theory in a three-semester program that culminates in one or more Certificates of Achievement. Standing in the prep kitchen before a rack of shining utensils and huge commercial ovens, Gene Womble, Program Director said, “We emphasize creating a career path for students.” To this end, the course work is connected with four enterprises run by students that are designed to give them hands-on experience in food services: • The Bakery - open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday • The Cellar Restaurant - serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Thursday • The Cellar Bistro - serves dinner with two choices of entrees on Wednesday evenings • A catering program - serving community special events from formal dinners to company picnics. “The courses really prepare you to go into the field,” explained Mary Sue Charles, who has taken many of the culinary classes and works at Artisan Pizza in Sonora. “You learn a great deal about teamwork which is essential when you get a job.” The teamwork Charles describes is evident in the culinary classroom next to the kitchen where students form spontaneous study groups work on various projects including the cul24

minating assignment: planning, preparing and serving a fourcourse meal or the e-portfolios students create for their future job search. Womble, who is a product of a community college training program at San Francisco City College, has affiliated the Culinary Program with the American Culinary Federation (ACF), a professional organization for chefs and cooks. Course work in the Columbia College Culinary program prepares students to take the ACF certification examination. Once a student has completed mandatory courses in nutrition, safety, sanitation and supervisory management, in addition to courses in food preparation and dining room service, he/she can apply to take the ACF exam. Certification is a benchmark of personal and professional achievement and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the industry. Dale Robbins, a program graduate who now serves as Director of Nutritional Services at Sonora Regional Medical Center, said he would not have been considered for his position had he not had the ACF certification. According to Womble, Columbia College culinary students have found work in restaurants, hotels, country clubs and hospitals, as well as consultants in food service settings. Robbins said that the breadth of course work prepares students to work in diverse contexts. “I never thought I’d enjoy working in the health care industry,” Robbins remarked. He has also worked as sous-chef at the City Hotel and in restaurant services at Black Oak Casino. “But I love my job. I get to feed people who are coming into the world and those who are leaving.” Robbins sites the Nutrition and Management classes as being valuable courses for what he does at the hospital. Charles cites learning to use commercial equipment and becoming Servsafe® certified as among the most important aspects of her coursework. “You have to know holding temps

ILLUSTRATION: JUDY STOLTENBERG

for food,” she recalled, “as well as how to keep the kitchen and yourself sanitary.” Specialty classes are popular among the students, especially the Introduction to Wines and Garde Manger. Not only are such classes useful in upscale settings like Seven Sisters at Black Oak Casino, Charles says she finds people often want wine rather than beer with their pizza. “Because of the wine class, I can suggest appropriate wines for different pizzas,” she added. The Culinary program attracts a broad array of students from Gary Reagan, a retiree who loved to cook and wanted to get some practical culinary skills, to Carly Meyers, who was fresh out of high school and said, “The Columbia program is a much better deal than going to a trade school because it’s a third of the cost.” Culinary students are generally drawn to the Columbia College program because they enjoy cooking. They finish well prepared in all facets of the industry from exacting measurement to premier service. Womble is quick to assert that many find satisfying careers like Dale Robbins, who speaking from his office beside the hospital kitchen said, “You hear those plates rattling? I love that sound!” Information about the Culinary Arts Program can be obtained by calling 588-5135 or by visiting columbiacollege.edu.

New World Nativity It is late December 1895 in Sonora, California. An arctic cold front has brought snow drifting into the foothills. Out of the storm and in great distress Powell Chance has brought his wife, Rosa, to the home of Dr. Innis Bromley. Rosa is in labor of child birth.

In the words of fictional characters of the Chance family, Mark Stoltenberg writes about the hardworking Gold Rush families that have made our area’s history so rich. He has written a number of historical articles and oneman plays, and performed them for schools and Forest Service campfire programs. Mark Stoltenberg’s collection of stories, Tuolumne Fathers and Sons, makes interesting listening while driving through the Mother Lode. The stories are available on CD at Mountain Books in Sonora, and online at shoprecords.com.

With a kerosene lamp in one hand, Dr. Bromley closes the bedroom door then raises a finger to his lips, “Mother and child are under the ether. Fannie will mark their progress. Every circumstance is different and you’re here, now, so we’re ready for anything. Mr. Chance, I fully expect positive results.” Bowing his head, his thank you is heartfelt, “Call me Powell.” “I’ll put on some coffee, Powell, and you can tell me all about it.” “I’ll tell you this - there’s nothing worse than tears of pain from the one you love - such a helpless, useless…,” Powell can’t find words. “Your time to help will come, Powell. You just be ready when it does,” says Bromley, stoking the woodstove. Powell pulls a bentwood chair away from the kitchen table and sets it close to the stove. “That sweet girl in there. We’ve waited almost nine years for this and now, I’m just so scared. I guess I expected to see the skies part and hear an angel band. You know, Dr. Bromley, this child is royalty.” “No, no, no. The first day in the new world is the one day you want them to be normal, just plain, average, mediocre, normal.” “Call me Innis,” Bromley says as he pours the coffee, “I’m not familiar with your kingdom, Powell, is it around these parts?” They both laugh. The gibe is delivered and received with a good natured kinship that both young men recognize and appreciate the other as a teammate, a brother. The sleeves on Powell’s forearms are steaming. “I first held hands with Rosa right here at the Opera Hall. We were on roller skates, May of ‘86. By August, I’d spoken to her father, Old continued on page 27 25

Seasonings

FOOTHILL MATCH MAKERS Seeking Creative Food Pairings By Tom Bender

Eric Davis with a salmon salad and the selected beer. Judy Creighton, The Cheese Lady at The Gold Country Artisan Cheese cheese exposition this spring.

THIS

A WONDERFUL TIME of the year for chefs contemplating wine matching and multi-course dinners at their foothill restaurants. With the growing abundance of the season’s produce at hand, wineries releasing new vintages and the subsequent pleasures of creative summer dining, foothill eateries and wineries are a terrific destination for an ultimate wine and food pairing possibility. But the art of creating the perfect match at a restaurant can be riddled with a number of difficulties and challenges for those involved. As a long-time restaurateur and wine educator, it is still an educational exercise every time I participate in this process. There is still a strong element for guesswork in the formulating of food and wine pairings, and we need to keep in mind that we all have wine favorites and dislikes that can predetermine our take on the combo at the table. 26

Whether it is a visiting winemaker challenging a chef to match their wines for a special dinner or a waitperson helping customers find a selection that will enhance their dining experience, some basic wine and food knowledge can go a long ways. And beer knowledge too! Just ask Eric Davis, founder of the popular Diamondback Grill in Sonora, and more recently the Standard Pour Restaurant in Standard, just east of Sonora. At the Standard Pour Eric has launched a series of multi-course beer and wine dinners in what he calls wine verses beer “smack down” food pairing competitions. The special four-course dinner happens nine to ten times a year and features a selection with each course from a specific craft brewery and local winery. “Wine pairing has been taken very seriously for some time and, in this case, beer is the upstart that never got its fair due,” observes Eric. “The dynamics are different and guests may be enthusiasts of one or the other, but in the end it is fun and informative for both sides.

There is always a surprise factor with the pairing especially with desserts.” He goes on to say that during every “smack down” dinner there is someone who claims they are strictly a beer drinker but goes on about the wine with a particular course that blew them away! Eric begs the group for input on which works and tells them their opinion matters. While it is a competition, he says that no beverage has dominated the event. Both have their challenges as far as matching foods. He thinks beer is more versatile with fewer challenges, working with spicy and stronger flavored foods. Wine, on the other hand, has acidity and helps accentuate flavors with its cleansing factor. His favorite combo included a dessert. “We did an Anise and Almond Biscotti with Coffee Ice Cream and served it with a Mendocino Brewing Imperial Stout. Oh my God was that good!” These dinners sell out so advance reservations are required (532-7687). But you can still visit Standard Pour in Standard for number of good craft beer and menu combinations.

If you are contemplating a foothill spring or summer picnic, there is a good chance cheese is among your necessary provisions. But making a nice wine and cheese sing together is more difficult than you might think. I turned to Judy Creighton, a cheese monger for over 30 years, having shared her cheese expertise at several stores and schools in San Francisco before settling a decade ago in Calaveras County. Nicknamed “The Cheese Lady,” Judy explains that pairing wines with cheeses can be tough because of the inconsistency of wine styles while cheeses are relatively stable. She sees 12 to14 styles and flavors within the cheese family. But that’s not the case with wines. “In Europe, cheeses are regional as are the wines, and they seem to pair up extremely well. In California wine types vary by region and styles are all over the map,” relayed Judy. “Cheeses are more consistent while wines are impacted by nature. For instance Zinfandel is very tricky and can not be generalized as to its style.” When Judy is not busy with tasting classes, she is the cheese advisor for Lavender Ridge Winery Tasting Room in Murphys and helps train staff members for their wine pairing program. She feels that their consistent style of Rhone-based varietal wines fits extremely well with certain cheeses. Guidelines she finds helpful include young cheeses with young wines. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Roussanne goes well with a fresh chevre. “Also consider weight with weight when selecting the best match. A medium-weight foothill Grenache pairs well with cheeses with rinds that have some age. The rind gives the cheese an earthiness and buttery texture.” Point Reyes Toma and Cypress Grove Creamery’s Purple Haze are favorites of hers with the Lavender Ridge Grenache. “Pay attention to the wine’s flavors first,” cautions Judy. “A bite of cheese will always change its characteristics.” Tempranillo and Cabernet Franc display medium tannins and dried fruit flavors matching best with firmer cheeses such as Spanish Manchego or Central Coast Creamery Seascape. Big aggressive wines such as Petite Sirahs and full bodied Zins are tough to match according to Judy. One exception might be the blue cheeses or aged cheeses low on butter fat and protein rich such as parmesan or pecorinos. But Judy says to look for the unexpected surprises when pairing.

“Roussane and Comte, a lighter Gruyere style cheese, is a total WOW, while the Syrah with Stokes Point Cheddar from Tasmania is a religious experience!” After having a pairing experience of your own at Lavender Ridge tasting room on Main Street in Murphys, head up the street to The Kitchen at Newsome Harlow’s tasting salon for a nurturing wine and food pairing. Chef Melanie Klann has been cooking since an early age and had her own bakery till starting a family changed that picture. She is back in the kitchen as the chef at The Kitchen, a wine and food venue that’s open on weekends. “I feel my purpose in life is to nourish people, and making people happy from my cooking is the best feeling in the whole world,” exclaimed Melanie. She calls her style seasonal eclectic and farm fresh, creating pairings while using all organic produce and hormonefree meats. She loves the non-traditional combos but strives for a balance of flavors in her dishes making sure they pair well with the wines from Newsome Harlow. This is where a challenge regarding her pairings might surface in that the winemaker of Newsome Harlow is her husband, Scott Klann. But it sounds like they are on the same level most of the time. “He does not challenge my pairings and is very supportive,” said Melanie. They have been together for 20 years, and she was quick to remind him he went from Taco Bell to Melanie’s cooking when he met her. “I do not have the foggiest idea about winemaking and Scott does not have a clue about cooking!” Her favorite matches include filet of beef with a spicy Sriracha dark chocolate sauce that pairs well with their NH Calaveras Zinfandel, or the savory polenta gorgonzola cheesecake with mushroom bourguignon sauce. “It is so freakishly good with the Syrah! Each component matches well with one another,” relishes Melanie. Plus, being a Newsome Harlow club member carries extreme privileges as Melanie will arrange special food and wine pairings when they visit and she is in The Kitchen. Connecting with these three foothill food and beverage pairing specialists can lead tasters to a memorable combination of flavors when a little thought and adventure goes into the experience. They are all so “freakishly” good at what they do.

New World Nativity continued from page 25

Stewart, down in Melones. You ever spend any time down there? Robinson’s Ferry – Slumgullion, Melones – different names, same place.” “Not really. I’ve heard it’s a rough neighborhood.” “Well, yes and no. It has that reputation going back to ’49 when they strung up three Americans and just left them until a small battalion from Tuttletown rode in and cut them down. There are still some locals who’ll tell you those hombres came looking for trouble and, Eureka, they found it. But you go down there to hear their music and taste their food, you’ll find us quite agreeable, most hospitable. I first heard people play real music together there by the river. That’s where Rosa was handed first a mandolin, then a guitar when she was big enough to hold it. “When I told Old Stewart - that’s what everybody calls him because of his white head of hair - that I intended to marry his daughter with his blessing, he let me go on a while before he asked me with his celtic brogue how I was around ‘the Mexican language.’ I told him I didn’t see how not speaking English indicated a lack of intelligence anymore than, say a southern drawl. ‘How about the local Me Wuks?’ he wanted to know. Well, I told him, brown hands helped mid-wife me into this world. He seemed satisfied with that and insisted that I come down that Sunday to present myself to Clan Stewart. “I was nervous riding down into the heat of the canyon. I clomped onto the ferry platform and discovered Harvey Wood, still at the helm - still whistling ‘Turkey in the Straw’ - just like when I was five years old with my mother and dad. I sniffed the green smell of the river, then whiffs of the meat dripping onto the oak coals of the cook fires. I could almost hear Cruz Gomez playing my dad’s fiddle. Dad told me it was Cruz that crawled and climbed up out of the Carson Hill pit bearing the Calaveras Nugget on his back – a hundred ninety-five pounds of gold and quartz…Good Glory, Innis! I’ll bet Old Stewart was there that day, tall and young, probably redheaded, maybe carrying on his hip that girl I would marry. Stars in the clockwork of their harmonious heavens!” Innis gives Powell a moment to enjoy his epiphany, then warms up their coffee, “What do you suppose became of that fiddle?” continued on page 29 27

MUSEUM SPOTLIGHT

By Bob Holton

Inspiring true tales of the ‘Golden Harvest’ Main Street in downtown Coulterville.

LOCATED LESS THAN 45 MINUTES DRIVE FROM SONORA in northern Mariposa County, what little is left of this once-flourishing boom town looks much today as it did in the 1850s. While many tall tales are still told of its colorful heydays, sometimes referred to as the “Golden Harvest,” the best way to learn all there is to know about historic Coulterville is to visit its museum. Originally named “Bandaritta” owing to a prominent flag and flagpole at one end of Main Street, Coulterville, as later rechristened, was founded in1848 or 1849. George Coutler made a sizable fortune practically overnight by establishing the first general store here. Coulterville's The Coulterville Museum. population soon grew to between 8,000 and 10,000 gold-crazed inhabitants, upon which Mr. Coulter - an astute businessman opened the three-story Coulterville Hotel. The ruins of this historic edifice are still seen on the west side of Highway 49 as we pull into town. Around the corner and behind the crumbling walls of the now-defunct hotel is the museum. Officially known as the Northern Mariposa County History Center, it consists essentially of three exhibit rooms, one of which was originally a 19th Century apothecary store and Wells Fargo express office. Owning to some notable persons who regularly passed through Coulterville over 100 years ago (one a famous explorer and environmentalist, the other California's most wanted outlaw), our museum tour features a few out-of-theordinary exhibits. First off, we notice side-by-side portraits of Joaquin Murrieta leering down at us from one of the gallery walls. Joaquin was a madman. Observe the stark dissimilarities of his demeanor in the two drawings, clearly suggesting he had a split personality and was schizophrenic. 28

In 1853, shortly before Joaquin was shot and beheaded in the Central Valley by California rangers, it was well established that he and his gang of cutthroats kept a hideout on Penon Blanco ridge a few miles north of Coulterville. In fact, according to Alan Haigh, 83, Joaquin was a loyal customer of his great, great grandfather’s trading post at Penon Blanco. Today Penon Blanco is a ghost town on the historic Haigh cattle ranch - Mariposa County's longest continuously-operating ranch dating back to 1850. On a less solemn note, our museum tour also includes an exhibit devoted to John Muir, world-renowned naturalist, author and founder of the Sierra Club. It happens that Muir lived for six years in Yosemite Valley and the surrounding area before it became a national park in 1890. During that time he frequently passed through Penon Blanco and Coulterville in the course of his travels. Today, the drive from Coulterville to the Yosemite park gate is approximately 25 miles on J132. About 18 months ago the museum received a grant for its John Muir display which features some of his personal effects and original manuscripts. Guided hiking tours along Muir's actual route into the valley of unearthly beauty (Yosemite) are planned for this summer. Do not fail to sign up for this program, especially if you’re a nature lover. Call the museum phone number listed below. A thorough accounting of the history center and its immediate vicinity would be an impossible task due to the narrow space of this article, but we would be remiss not to mention something about the little town of Coulterville, a perfect day trip for Gold Country aficionados and the whole family alike. Few places in our storied foothills can match Coulterville’s unspoiled charm. It’s quaint, one-block “business district” consists of a few good shops, restaurants, two 19th Century saloons, a general store and the Jeffery Hotel established in 1851.

BOB HOLTON

New World Nativity

Old-timer Alan Haigh, previously alluded to, tells an interesting tale of this hotel and a talking parrot. “Back in the olden times,” he relates, “Ed and Violet Sackett owned the Jeffery and lived above the saloon. They had a burglary one night while they were sleeping, so Ed decides he was never going to let that happen again. He takes a sawed off shot gun, sets it behind the bar and puts a piece of cardboard over it. Then he invents a trigger system so if anybody tries to open the cash register the gun goes off and shoots buck shot into him. “Well, one morning Ed’s wife comes downstairs, and she was a very heavyset woman. She always wore two corsets, and she was also Coulterville’s postmistress. Anyway, she needed some money so she goes to the resister but forgets to disarm the trigger, opens it, the gun goes off and it sprinkles her with bird shot really good. “What probably saved her life,” Haigh says, “were those heavy corsets she wore. At the other end of the bar was their pet parrot in a cage. He was quite a talking parrot, you know. He talked and talked to everyone who came in the saloon, but when some of the pellets flew down through the room and slightly hit the old bird, from that time on it never spoke a word.” Haigh tells this story as truth, and so it was in old Coulterville during the days of the “Golden Harvest.” The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Call (209) 878-3015. Admission is free.

continued from page 27

“Oh, I’ve got it wrapped up at home in the old oil cloth.” “Maybe this one will pick it up. So you presented yourself to Clan Stewart…” Powell shakes his head. Where to start? “I found myself sitting next to the matriarch, Abuela Antonia - Rosa’s grandmother, trying to explain roller skates! I look across the room and Rosa’s smiling that sweet smile of hers. She rolls her bonnie blue eyes and comes to my rescue. She interprets for me. Her abuela was born down river on the north side of Table Mountain, what we call Peoria Flat. It was there her father fought the Mexican soldiers alongside Cucunuchi. Cucunuchi who’d learned to read and write at the mission on the coast led their armed resistance. Antonia’s father, along with 400 others forced the intruders to retreat. Antonia shook her old fist. Cucunuchi came out in the open, fired a parting shot, and hurled insults at the fleeing soldiers. She put her hand on my arm to make sure she had my attention and said ‘Somos gente de paz-pero no cobardes – We are quiet people, but we are no cowards.’ Rosa listened. Abuela had one more declaration. ‘She wants you to know that she made the corn and pine nut salad,’and Abuela rejoined her three old friends in their wagering game. Innis smiles, “Sounds like you made a good impression.” “Oh, we were just getting started. One of her cousins from the Me Wuk side is a pescador - a fisherman. They call him Delrio and he spends all his time on the river with nets, bow and arrow, rod and reel, harpoon…take your pick. Everybody watched him put his hand out to shake (Powell demonstrates) so I shook hands (Innes reaches out) and he does this.” As they grasp, Powell’s hand tugs and wiggles like a fish on the line. Both men break out laughing. “The clan, they’d seen his fisherman’s handshake and couldn’t wait to see my reaction. He walked me down to the river and showed me the spots where a trout would rise even in the hot midday. “There was a great commotion across the river. Two horsemen and two dogs were pushing six to eight big, tall hogs down the bank and into the river. The one rider took the ferry while the other charged right in and kept them moving until the whole bunch came out splashing and gasping right by us. It was Rosa’s uncle, Tio Diego, probably the finest horseman I will ever see. Horses don’t like hogs, especially big boars with tusks that can cut through tendons like hatchets. But Diego had his horse darting in and out like it was a game they played.” “When they’d corralled the beasts, Diego told me they’d come about thirty five miles from Don Pedro, crossing Table Mountain over the paso de robles to deliver the hogs to Angelo Rimassa. I watched him unsaddle and tend his mount. Just over a hundred years ago, when George Washington was leading a revolution, Diego’s ancestors down on the coast had never laid eyes on a horse or a steer. The padres picked the most nimble of their neophytes and started them in the Spanish ways of the rancho. They became the great Vaqueros - born to the saddle. I’d been told that Diego is a coleador – you ever hear that term? It’s a horseman who rides up and throws a running bull to the ground by twisting his tail-sending him tumbling horn over hoof!” “Impossible,” exclaims Innis. “Muy macho es el coleador!” Powell replies. They nod their agreement. “Ahh,” Powell sighs, “we should be in Melones. Rosa wanted to be there with her mother. We should’ve left yesterday, but we thought we had another two weeks. I bet it’s just raining in Melones. Her mother, Carmela, is a curandura, a healing woman. She loves to ride horses,” Powell grins, “everybody uses those five words for Carmela. She and Old Stewart play hide and seek up in the Sierra every summer. He follows the weather and the receding snow, hiking with his dogs and woolies. Carmela might give him three or four weeks head start. Then Rosa says she’ll find something he left behind or he’ll get a book in the mail and next morning, Carmela is in the saddle heading for the high lonesome - usually ponying one or two green broke youngsters that she’s working with.” “That’s wild country,” says Innis, “She ever get lost?” continued on page 37 29

Highway 120 Oakdale to Groveland to Yosemite The Shortest Route to Yosemite from North & Central California

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– Sunset Magazine

Combining a timeless feel with modern comforts, Evergreen Lodge is Yosemite’s premier mountain resort. Come see why Frommer’s Guide calls the Evergreen “the Classic Yosemite Experience”. Cabins • Restaurant • Tavern • Recreation

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(800) 93-LODGE

Located off Hwy 120 on Yosemite’s western border

Groveland Pharmacy Your Local Family Pharmacy PATRICK K. CROSBY Pharmacist/Owner

209.962.5211 18638 Main Street 30

New Exhibit Exhibit Exh hhibit July J lly th Jul tthr through hhr December 2012

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PARK 33

Touring HisTorical Markers in to Placerville

By Patricia Harrelson

49 ) 0.2 miles north of Drytown ✪ Drytown

✪ Keystone Mine, south end of Amador City ✪ Knight Foundry (#1007) on Eureka St. in Sutter Creek, three blocks east ✪ Sutter Creek (#322) In front of Veteran's Memorial Hall Argonaut and Kennedy Mines (#786) Jackson Gate (#118) By flag pole where Main St. meets 49 Roadside rest 1.6 mi north of Jackson ✪ ✪ ✪ Pioneer Hall (#34) At 113 Main St. one block from Jackson Gate Jackson

Most people don’t know that

Big Bar(#41) at county line 4.0 miles south of Jackson ✪

Drytown in Amador County

Mokelumne Hill

was never dry as the name implies.

✪ Congregational Church (#261), Mokelumne Hill. Turn on Main, one block

In fact, Drytown once housed 26 saloons. Most locals know the connection between Mark Twain and the Frog Jump Contest at the Calaveras County Fair, but did you know that Samuel Clemens was at

San Andreas (#252) At Main in San Andreas ✪

San Andreas

Fourth Crossing (#258) At San Antonio Creek, five miles south of San Andreas ✪

Altaville Grammar School (#499) and Altaville (#288) Angels Camp One block before intersection of 49 & 4 ✪ Angels Camp (#287) and Angels Hotel (#734) ✪ NE corner of Main St and Birds Way Hill, (#274) 3.7 miles sout the yarn that became his famous ✪ Carson Robinson’s Ferry (#276) at the N ✪ 5.4 miles south of Angels Camp Jumping Frog story? (#124) at Wilc ✪ Tuttletown Columbia Mark Twain cabin (#138) One mile north of Tuttletown ✪ ✪ ✪ Columbia (#1 You don’t have to go to the library to learn interesting bits Mormon Battalion at junction of Rawhide Rd/County E5 befo of local history. All you have to do is stop at one of the granite St. James Episcopal Church, (#139) on N. Washington & 49 ✪ Sonora

the Angels Hotel when he first heard

monuments you’ve probably noticed along our county byways. Such markers can be found on our well-traveled highways or tucked away on the likes of Soulsbyville Road where California Historical Marker #420 sits. Guests at these quiet testaments to the past are, however, infrequent. Maybe you’ve pulled over near one of these markers to let a faster car pass. Or perhaps you’ve stopped briefly in their gravel aprons to stretch your legs or talk on your cell phone. But have you ever purposefully stopped and taken a few minutes to read the bronze engraving on one of these staid memorials? If not, you might be in for agreeable surprise. For one thing, even on busy Historic Highway 49, stopping to study a stone edifice offers a moment of repose. In the time it takes to read the plaque, a shift occurs. Time warps and the view expands. At Fourth Crossing (#258) near San Andreas, the traffic at your back suddenly echoes the sound of stage coaches and freight wagons that once served the early mining settlement. Looking across New Melones Reservoir at the vista point where Robinson’s Ferry monument (#276) stands, you can sense the deep flow of the Stanislaus River across which John Robinson once transported freight, animals, and people. 34

Jamestown

✪ Jamestown (#4

✪ Montezuma (#122) 2.5 m Chinese Camp (#423) At Main St in Chinese Camp ✪ Chinese Camp A history lesson at the side of the road – this one marks the town of Jacksonville, now at the bottom of Don Pedro Reservoir.

✪ Jacks Moccasin

s in THe MoTHer lode

ast

miles south of Angels Camp 76) at the New Melones Vista Point ngels Camp 24) at Wilcox Ranch Rd mbia olumbia (#133) Two monuments near Parrots Ferry Road before and after stoplight nora

estown (#431) Main and Donovan Streets, Jamestown

(#122) 2.5 miles north of Chinese Camp

✪ Jacksonville (#419) Vista Point at north approach to Don Pedro Bridge

Moccasin

Coulterville

to Mariposa

Blithely host to green moss alive in hoary grout, markers are a sturdy public record of Joaquin Murrieta’s rendezvous point in San Andreas or a place called Montezuma near Chinese Camp that lacked sufficient water in 1850 to conduct mining activities. Official recognition of historical sites began in Los Angeles in 1895 with the formation of the Landmarks Club. The Club faithfully marked the Spanish missions and other historical sites. In 1931, the landmark program became official when legislation directed the Department of Natural Resources to register and mark buildings, structures, sites or places in the state that have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic, scientific or religious significance. The early program was ambitious though criteria and documentation requirements were minimal. Some properties were registered simply on the basis of hearsay or local legend. However, in 1946 Governor Earl Warren created the California Historical Landmarks Advisory Committee which established criteria that lent much more integrity to the program. The State Historical Commission, established in 1974, further tightened the historical designation process. Since its official inception, registered historical markers have been numbered and depict a California Bear at the top of the plaque. But monuments are also erected by individuals and groups. In Amador City, Henry and Mary Garibaldi established a monument to the Keystone Mine, one the most profitable and long running mines in the Mother Lode. The Mormon Battalion Monument that sits on Highway 49 at the junction of Rawhide Road was paid for and constructed by the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. And throughout the Gold Country historical plaques have been raised by E. Clampus Vitus, an organization steeped in questionable mythology but rock solid in establishing monuments to western heritage. No matter who builds a monument, visiting local landmarks is sure to enliven your sense of the foothills. Listen to frogs singing in the mossy pond behind Drytown’s monument (#31). Take a trip down a quiet street in Sutter Creek and sit on wooden bench across from Knight Foundry (#1007). Stop in Sonora on the main thoroughfare for a closer look at the Red Church, rightfully known as St. James Anglican Church (#139). Feel the soft breeze rustling the tall grass at Montezuma (#122). Stand on ground were previous generations have walked and feel that much closer to the rich story behind each monument. 35

FROM PERU TO SONORA and Back Again

By Bonnie Miller

Above: A llama wool poncho woven in Peru. Left: George Caldwell on one of his trips to the Andes.

THE CENTRAL SIERRA ARTS COUNCIL is staging an exciting show highlighting the art of Peru, entitled “Woven Arts of the Andes – the Fabric of a Culture” July 27 through October 7. This fascinating and informative exhibit has been brought to the Mother Lode by the most unlikely of ambassadors, the llama. The llama is a camelid, or a furry cousin to the camel. It is native to Peru and made its first appearance in California in the 1920s by William Randolph Hearst for the Hearst Castle estate. Llama handler and Sonora residents, George Caldwell and his wife Christine Dunham, have worked with these animals breeding and raising them for 30 years. Fifteen years ago they added rescuing to their llama activities. About that time George and Christine decided to visit Peru to study the origin of this magnificent animal. What George found was actually distressing. Llamas come from the Andes mountains where the native peoples have traditionally embraced the llama as integral to their culture. Llamas provide fiber for the weavings that are essential in their clothing, blankets and numerous other utilitarian products. The importance of the llama is manifested in the intricate weavings that tell stories of the relationship between the people and their world. But the people’s traditional way of life is changing, which has in turn endangered that of the llamas. Llamas are no longer practical as beasts of burden in the twenty-first century. In the harsh environment of the Andes, younger generations are quick to abandon the old ways. Finding sustenance is difficult in the high mountain terrains. The people are losing their connection with the 36

llamas as working companions and as an integral part of their culture. They are being raised as a food source. George Caldwell decided to do something about it. He returned to Peru with fiber from his own llamas in Sonora. In Peru his fiber was spun and woven into Quechuan intricate designs. In ten years’ time he has developed deep friendships, while providing an outlet for the weavings of the Quechuan people. George met Joy Severin, another llama owner in Sonora, and as they came to know each other his remarkable story unfolded. Joy is a board member of the Central Sierra Arts Council in Sonora, and she felt his story and weavings would make an excellent art exhibit. Shortly thereafter George and Christine brought two of his llamas to an Arts Council Board meeting to convince the gallery of their good intentions. The llamas each wore a pack of woven fiber filled with additional unique pieces. The well-behaved llamas entered the meeting and never needed to say a word. The board was thrilled with the idea. George’s amazing account and the story of these people of the Andes has been organized into this stunning art exhibit. The show will highlight the extensive variety of weavings, while explaining the pictographs and motifs found within. The Quechuan people did not have a traditional written language and lore was communicated orally or through pictographs, and at the exhibit guests can learn of the significance and meanings of the various symbols. Through George’s connection, we may learn of the woven art, the history and the spirituality within, and of the connections between these people with their llamas. During the exhibit George Caldwell is scheduled to give lectures and will have on display several pieces that he has collected, as well as several on loan from other collectors including Laurie Sylwester, Professor of Art at Columbia College. Visitors may enjoy weaving demonstrations or Andean music at various times during the exhibit. Children can hear stories presented by such notables as the award-winning BZ Smith. Schools are encouraged to arrange field trips to this educational exhibit. The gallery is located at 193 Washington Street in Sonora. For more information, visit www.centralsierraarts.org or call the gallery at 532-2787. To learn more about llamas in the Mother Lode, visit George and Christine’s web site at www.experiencellamas.com.

Weavers and Spinners –thriving in the Mother Lode

By Anne Mendenhall Mother Lode Weavers and Spinners at the Columbia Fall Festifall.

FABRIC

IS ALL AROUND US. There is a special group of fiber enthusiasts in the Mother Lode that make fabric, yarn and related products by hand and take the time to use the tools and knowledge of generations past to create items of beauty and love.

The Mother Lode Weavers and Spinners Guild was created in 1974 by Lucille Morgan, a teacher at Columbia College, and nineteen others (many from her class). Their purpose was “to promote handweaving of high standards, to provide educational opportunities and create friendly cooperation among members; and to stimulate public interest in handweaving.” Members desired classes of a more formal structure and looms were built using hardware and plans supplied by Gilmore Looms. The Guild started with 17 looms and Lucille as president and instructor. Today the Guild, one of five guilds that make up the Conference of Northern California Handweavers, continues to provide looms for classes and workshops in a private studio which has a library of books and videos. Equipment including looms and spinning wheels are available for members to rent monthly for a nominal fee. Since those beginnings the guild has expanded its purpose and includes all fiber arts and is also a great source of raw materials. Some members are distributors of fiber and equipment and some raise animals for their fibers. The Guild holds meetings once a month that includes business meetings and presentations. Presentations often involve an in-depth look at a specific technique. Studio 49 is an off-shoot of the Guild that was created to accommodate those who would like gatherings on Saturdays. It began at the meeting room of Hetch Hetchy on Highway 49 where looms were provided and weave structures were taught. It is now held at the Sonora Library. The focus has evolved to primarily spinning. Members bring their wheels to spin with a group sharing finished products, ideas and welcoming the public. Studio 49 hosts a yearly weekend retreat where people from around the state join for fiber arts activities. The Guild strongly believes in public outreach. For one month a year the Guild provides a display at the county library. The Guild participates in the Quilt & Thread Show September 15 and 16 at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds, and at the Columbia Festifall, October 13 and 14, in Columbia State Historic Park. Not only is there an opportunity to purchase handmade wares, but spinners bring their wheels to demonstrate how fiber is turned into yarn. A loom is set up where children sit to weave a bit. Their woven bookmark is sent to them in the following weeks. Members also go to school classrooms. Feel free to visit their website at: www.mlwsguild.org or e-mail Anne Mendenhall: bighillgirl@me.com.

New World Nativity continued from page 29

“Oh, the mountains and the watershed make perfect sense to her - up high in the cirques and the lodgepoles where the river gets reborn every year. It’s a gentle wilderness for the two of them.” “I met them all that day, then the four of us watched the sun go down by the river. With her right hand, Rosa pulled combinations of notes from chords on her guitar and I trotted out my proud pedigree. ‘I’m an orphan now but my mother was a blue blood Virginian and my great grandfather from Elizabeth County, New Jersey fought for General Washington. He was paid in Ohio River Valley bottomland, soil as rich as chocolate cake. My dad turned 19 on the Green River in Idaho on his way to California with Clarke and Skidmore.’” “The old Scot didn’t want to dampen my spark. He said ‘Every soul who risked ocean or desert to get to California has a valuable story to tell - a story that’ll always be important to someone. But so does our clan - this familia. They adopted me into their world right here under these great oak trees beside this ancient river. You think about Cucunuchi. To Abuela Antonia, Cucunuchi is who William Wallace is to Scotland or George Washington is to the colonies. Of course you’ve heard of him by his baptized name Estaneslao. Behold! The Stanislaus River!” “Rosa strummed a chord, ‘Like mi Abuela Antonia says, tenemos muchos requerdos - we have much to remember,’ and her left hand deftly spun a priouette on the guitar strings.” “Carmela turned to me - she’d learned her English from a Scotsman. She could be very direct, ‘We’re like any family about to send their daughter off with an outlander. We want to know she’ll be safe, hopefully happy, and maybe you’ll think enough of us to stay close for us to see the wee ones grow.’” From the other room Fanny calls, “Doctor Bromley,” then more urgently, “Doctor Bromley!” Powell is alone in the kitchen. Twenty-five feet away his life is changing. The snow is blowing against the window pane like shifting sand. Trying to calm his racing thoughts, he imagines his horses, knowing which have sought shelter and those that prefer the feel of the wind in the open. Behind him a door opens. Innis Bromley is walking toward him saying “All is well,” and handing him a small blanketed bundle. “Here is your California princess.” Powell holds her and peers in to see pink gums. He hears a mild complaint and breathes in the smell of his New World. He can’t wait to show her to Rosa. Tears of joy, relief and gratitude brim and roll down his cheeks as he closes the twenty-five feet to share her with his queen. 37

Central Sierra Region -

CALE N DAR

EVENTS

Events which end with a www will have a link for additional information online at the Calendar of Events page at www.sierraseasons.com

•••••••• J U N E •••••••

Hurst rancH Friday nigHt BarBeque By Patricia Harrelson

WHAT COULD BE MORE INVITING on a summer night in the foothills than the redolent whiff of barbecue and the foot-tapping strains of country, Bluegrass and old time western music? Such a call emanates from the historic Hurst Ranch just west of Jamestown, where an open air barbeque and show gets underway each Friday beginning the last weekend in June. The grounds open at 5:45pm, so arrive early to ride the miniature train that circles the lake and winds under flumes and around craggy rocks where gold seekers once trekked. Dinner is at 7pm — generous portions of the ranch’s very own Table Mountain beef or chicken slathered in Aunt Carol’s sauce. Guests are served at a buffet and dine family style on wooden tables facing the stage. The 8pm Sierra Mountain Band dinner show features Dave “Huckleberry” Rainwater, a comical character who carouses with fellow musicians Elida Ickes, Brent Pierce, and Keith Keenom in a shindig of infectious tunes. The band performs against the backdrop of a picturesque lake. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 984-4040. For additional information, visit hurstchuckwagon.com. 38

1-15, Anagama Pottery Show, Central Sierra Arts Council Gallery, Sonora, 532-ARTS, www 1-30, Galerie Copper Art Classes-June, Drawing Wednesdays, Second Fridays watercolor & oil. Watercolor third Wednesday & Sat. Open Painting fourth Wednesday, Oil Painting Thursdays. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes., Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 6, 13, 20, 27, June Concerts in Tuolumne Park, Wednesday evenings at the Memorial Park. Live music along with the wonderful farmers market. 6/6 Bayou Boys, 6/13 Jesse James and the Outlaws, 6/20 Joe Batt and the Patriots, 6/27 James and the Jukes, Tuolumne 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee, Five glorious days of merriment and lumber education. Thursday: Tuolumne Appreciation Day, Carnival rides, live music. Friday: Carnival rides, queen coronation, live music, Saturday: parade, rides, kidís games, women’s events, hot dog eating contest, arm wrestling, Jr. tug-o-war, live music. Sunday: Church services, soap box derby, rides, logging evens, tug of war., Tuolumne Memorial Park, Tuolunme, 7436796, www 7, Comedy Showcase - Tom McClain & Aldo with Hark Dulai, Live comedy. 8-10pm, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 8, Rusty Evans - Johnny Cash Tribute, Live music - 9-11pm, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 8-29, Iron Door Saloon live entertainment in June, Tequila Mockingbird: June 8,9. Damage Inc. with Aaron Pearson: June 15, 16. The Wingnut Adams Band: June 22, 23. Black Rose with Randy Kirk: June 29, 30. Most bands play 9pm to 1am. Call for ticket prices and more information. Groveland, 962-8904, www 9, 2nd Saturday Art Night, 5-8pm. Visit local galleries, theatres, restaurants and clubs for a lively night of art, theatre and live music! Many participating galleries. Lots of downtown restaurants feature local artists. Downtown Sonora 9, 4th Annual Sarsaparilla Roundup, Saturday noon. Features contests in the afternoon, including mug slide, horseshoes, spelling bee, etc. and frosty cold sarsaparilla. Columbia Chamber of Commerce & Columbia Soda Works, Columbia State Historic Park, 536-1672 9, Josh Pfeiffer, Live music - 9-11pm, Big Band and dance classics, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-7478777, www 9, Spotlight on Railtown, (6-9pm) $50.00 per person. Join the fun and help keep the trains rolling at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown! Jamestown, 984-3953, www

13, Shine & Show: Classic Car Show, 5:308:30pm in our parking lot. This is open to the public at no charge. Polish up your car and cruise on down. Bring the entire family and enjoy some great music, bbq food, and cold drinks, Murphys Historic Hotel, 728-3444 13, 20, 27, Music in the Parks: June, Calaveras County Arts Council presents free music at various parks throughout Calaveras County on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm through the summer. Pack a picnic and bring lawn chairs or blankets. June 13: Coyote Hill, Copperopolis Town Square, June 20: Descendants of Prospectors, Angels Camp Utical Park, June 27: Blame Sally, Mountain Ranch community Park, Calaveras County Arts Council, Assorted parks in Calaveras County, 754-1774 14, Karaoke World championship qualifier, On stage - 8-10pm, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 14, Fleetwood Nicks, On stage - 8-10pm. Stevie Nicks tribute., Willow Creek Lounge Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 15, 22, 29, Friday Night Hurst Ranch Barbecue, Every Friday evening join us for BBQ dinner buffet and family entertainment at Hurst Ranch. 5:45 grounds open. An evening of family fun and wonderful food. Reservations 9844040 Free train rides, country barbecue served 7pm with live western stage show following, Jamestown 15, 29, Summer ‘Folk at the Oak’ concerts at Twisted Oak Winery, June 15: The Delgado Brothers, June 29: Peter Rowan. Dinner, yummy Twisted Oak wine, soft drinks, and water will be available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Bring blankets and lowback chairs for seating. Seating is first-come, first-served. Buy tickets on line for a discount or at the gate if any are left. Each event has different food and music! Come enjoy an evening under the stars! 736-9080, www 16, Groveland Hotel Summer Show, The Beatles Experience recreates the spirit of the Fab Four with authentic costumes, true sound and all the excitement! You'll rave about them “Eight Days a Week!” Showtime 8:00pmTickets $33, Groveland, 962-4000, www 14, Heart Alive, Tribute to Heart, 9-11pm, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 16, Murhys-Angels Lions Classic Car Show, at the Black Bart Playhouse - 580 S. Algiers St. in historic Murphys, CA - Pre-registration$20./$25. Awards, dash plaques, raffles, 50/50 drawing, DJ, vendors BBQ tri-tip & bratwurst sandwiches, cold beer, wine & snow cones - call Terry at 728-9971 or terry.makemyday @yahoo.com

Live tHeatre Presenting the only Calendar of Events covering the complete Central Sierra region, All phone numbers are 209 area code

16, Paddle Fest, Once a year SNAC gathers dozens of kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards in one place, to help you make your boat buying decision a little easier ... not to mention, have a whole lot of fun choosing the right boat! If you’re in the market to purchase a kayak, canoe or SUP, the festival is a great opportunity to demo every boat we stock, talk with manufacturer representatives, win hundreds of dollars in raffle prizes, and enjoy clinics and demonstrations ... all for only $25! The $25 festival ticket includes a barbeque lunch and is refundable toward your purchase of any new, regularly priced kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board in stock! Contact us at 795.9310 or snac@snacattack.com for more info! Arnold 16, Summer Concert Cal Big Trees, “Take a Trip Down Memory Lane” Concert and raffel, Big Trees SP - 209-795-3940 Featuring The Anne Saunders Trio. At Jack Knight Hall in Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Amazing music, hors d’oeuvres and fine local wines. A perfect summer afternoon in a most spectacular place. Tickets are $25.00, available online at memorylane.eventsbot.com. 16, 17, Father’s Day Fly-In at Columbia, Begin each day with a pancake breakfast from 7 to 11. View classic aircraft, take biplane rides; aviation vendor booths, food and beverage sales, CDF demos, aircraft fly-bys, Tri-tip Dinner and Dancing to live music Saturday night. Sat. 8-5, Sun 8-3. Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Columbia Airport, Columbia, 533-5685, www 6, 23, 30, Concerts in the Pines - July, Concerts In the Pines are Saturday nights during the summer. Located on the Rotary Stage at Eproson Park, music from 6pm-8pm. Bring chairs, blankets and a jacket. Candy and popcorn are sold at the concert.June 16: Nigel & Clive June 23: Threshold, June 30: Rock of Ages., Eproson Park, Twain Harte, 586-4482, www 17, Columbia Car Show, www 21, Edwin McCain, 8-10pm. Adult contemporary music., Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 21, Twain Harte Nights, Live band, chocolate tasting and Porsche show, Twain Harte Business Association, Twain Harte 22, Top Secret, 9-11pm. Live party music., Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 23, Art & Jazz on the Square, Listen to live music while you browse the local art show., Copperopolis Town Square, 866-276-4235, www 23, Copperopolis Art on the Square, 10am 4pm Artists will display their work outdoors. The Copperopolis Art on the Square is an exciting annual event for the Mother Lode. 7852050, www 23, Habitat House Party, Habitat for Humanity Tuolumne County 3:30 - 7:30pm. Confidence. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Habitat office at 536-0970

23, Jazzin’ It Up in Jackson, Free Music, Art & Wine on Main St, Jackson. 6-9 pm with 3 bands, Art by the Inch, food vendors, beer garden, wine tasting in Main St. shops (fee for commemorative glass), street performers and so much more. 223-9038 www.amadorarts.org 23, Quyle Kilns Open House, There are fun plans at Quyle's-an Art Open House with music and wine tasting on June 23, a ceramic conference and exhibit, with music, on July 21. Plan to attend-come and enjoy the art and artists. Murphys, 728-3562 23, Rick Estrin and the Night Cats, 9-11pm. Live blues music., Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 23, 24, Calaveras Winegrape Alliance Passport Wine Weekend, Event includes barrel tastings, food and wine pairing, entertainment, sponsored by Calaveras Winegrape Association at 25 Calaveras wineries. Call for prices and more information on events! Calaveras Winegrape Alliance, Murphys and many wineries, 7366722, or (866) 806-WINE, www 23, 24, Daylily Days, The gardens are in their full blooming glory this time of year. Join us for tram ride garden tours and demonstrations., Amador Flower Farm, Plymoth, 245-6660, www 28, World Karaoke championships, 8-10pm on stage competition, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 28, Rock of Ages, 9-11pm Music of the 60s-90s - Amgen Tour party, Willow Creek Lounge Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 30, Hank Williams, Jr., Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www 30, Lava, 9-11pm Latin Music, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877747-8777, www 30, 1, Sierra Nevada Arts & Crafts Festival. Festival features over 65 booths of fine arts & crafts. Continuous shows of live country/swing music by the Stardust Cowboys from Sacramento and famous juggler Mark "Bonzai" Bunnell from San Francisco will perform both days. Annual Ebbetts Pass Independence Day parade is held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. on Highway 4. For further information, please email Kim at afterthegoldrush@sbcglobal.netor call 925-372-8961.

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June 1- July 1, Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps, Sierra Repertory Theatre, East Sonora June 8 - July 7, Noises Off, Volcano Theatre Company, Volcano June 22 - July 21, The Taming of the Shrew, Main Street Theater Works, Kennedy Mine Amphitheatre, Jackson June 22 - July 28, The Tempest, Murphys Creek Theatre Company, Murphys June 29 - July 29, Red, Stage 3 Theatre, Sonora June 29 - August 19, Carousel, Sierra Repertory Theatre, Columbia July 27 - September 2, There Goes the Bride, Sierra Repertory Theatre, East Sonora August 10 - September 8, The Majestic Kid, Main Street Theater Works, Kennedy Mine Amphitheatre, Jackson August 10 - September 8, The Philadelphia Story, Volcano Theatre Company, Volcano August 17 - September 23, The Imaginary Invalid, Murphys Creek Theatre Company, August 31 - October 7, November by David Mamet, Stage 3 Theater, Sonora September 7 - October 7, Irving Berlin’s I Love a Piano, Sierra Repertory Theatre, Columbia September 22 - October 27, Skin Deep, Volcano Theatre Company, Cobblestone Theatre, Volcano October 5 - 28, Time Stands Still, Sierra Repertory Theatre, East Sonora October 26 - December 22, Cinderella, Sierra Repertory Theatre, Columbia November 5 - December 28, Every Christmas Story Ever Told...and then some! Sierra Repertory Theatre, East Sonora November 16 - December 7, Brighton Beach by Neil Simon, Stage 3 Theater, Sonora November 16 - December 23, Almost Maine, Murphys Creek Theatre Company, November 24 - December 15, Christmas Yet To Come, Volcano Theatre Company, Cobblestone Theatre

Main Street Theatre Works Jackson, 295-4499, www.mstw.org Murphys Creek Theatre Company 728-8422, www.murphyscreektheatre.org Sierra Repertory Theatre Fallon House, Columbia • SRT, Sonora 532-3120, www.sierrarep.org Stage 3 Theatre Company 536-1778, www.stage3.org Volcano Theatre Company 296-2525, www.volcanotheatre.org 39

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Farmers markets caLaveras cOunty & nOrtH Angels Camp Certified Farmers Market, Utica Park, Fridays, 5pm to dusk, 303-7637 Jackson Busi Municipal Parking Lot, Highway 49, Sundays, 10am to 1pm, 419-2503 Murphys Certified Farmers Market, Val du Vino Winery, Fridays, 4pm to dusk, 728-9911 Plymouth McGee Park, Main Street, Thursdays, 4 to 7pm, 419-2503 Sutter Creek Eureka Street parking lot, Saturdays, 8 to 11am, 419-2503 Valley Springs Farmers Market, Terrace Plaza on Nove Way, Saturdays, 4 to 9pm, 365-3158

tuOLumne cOunty & sOutH Oakdale Certified Farmers Market, Thursdays, 5pm to 8pm, 845-3591 Sonora Certified Farmers Market, Stewart Street, Saturdays, 7:30am to 11:30am, 532-7725 Tuolumne Certified Farmers Market, Memorial Park, Wednesdays, 4pm to dusk, 928-4351 Twain Harte Farmers Market, Eproson Park, Fridays 4pm to 6pm, 586-4482

EVENTS

Presenting the only Calendar of Events covering the complete Central Sierra region, from Oakdale to the Sierra Crest, from Yosemite National Park to the Gold Country.

••• J U N E, Continued ••• 30, Ironstone Vineyards Heritage Museum show, Doyle Cigar Box Guitars on display in Ironstone’s Heritage Museum throughout the 2012 Concert Season. These one of a kind specialty guitars are a must see! Available for sale & custom orders welcome. Keep an eye out for Ironstone Museum’s daily specials. Limited specialty items selected for the day with ground breaking discounts, Murphys, www

• • • • • • • • J U LY • • • • • • •

Cherries on the counters at Sonora’s Certified Farmers Market.

1, Hernia Hill 5K/10K/Half-marathon/Relay at Twisted Oak, The 25th Anniversary of this Independence Day favorite! Post race BBQ open to all after the race 11am-1pm. Non-running Adults $10, Kids $7 (BBQ for runners is included in the entry fee.) Twisted Oak Winery in Vallecito, 736-9080 1-30, Galerie Copper Art Classes-July, Drawing Wednesdays, Second Fridays watercolor & oil. Watercolor third Wednesday & Sat. Open Painting fourth Wednesday, Oil Painting Thursdays. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes. Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 1-30, Ironstone Vineyards Heritage Museum show, Opening - Antique Fishing Gear exhibition; featuring antique reels, rods and fishing artifacts. On display in Ironstone’s Heritage Museum through Sept. 23rd. Watch Ironstone’s website and facebook page for dates of free antique fishing gear appraisal clinics presented by Fishing Collectible expert, Bert Kronnick., Murphys, www 3, Fireworks on the Water - Lake Don Pedro, 9:30pm The show will take place on the water by Don Pedro Dam, and can be viewed from the Blue Oaks Group Area, the Visitor Center/Helipad area, or from the water. Each vehicle will be charged $15.00 to utilize the Recreation Area, park and view the show. Don Pedro Recreation Agency, 852-2396, www.donpedrolake.com. 4, Columbia’s Glorious 4th of July - Celebrate our nation's birthday the old-fashioned way! In addition to the parade, listen to the Great Mother Lode Brass & Reed Band concert, dance in the street, and try your skill at the many contests popular in the early days of Columbia. The festivities will begin with a flag raising and firing of the cannon at 11am. Sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call 536-1672, Columbia, 5361672, www 4, 11, 18, 25, July Concerts in Tuolumne Park, Wednesday evenings at the Memorial Park. Live music along with the wonderful farmers market. 7/4 Crash Landing, 7/11, Swing Gitane, 7/18 Dossi on the Rocks, 7/25 209 All Stars, Tuolumne

4, Twain Harte July 4th Parade, Come and be a participant or spectator for the Twain Harte 4th of July Parade. After the parade stay to listen to the band, water slide for the kids, a dunk tank, food and more. Fun! Fun! Fun!For more information call 352-6267 5-28, Galerie Copper Art Classes-July, Drawing Wednesdays, Second Fridays watercolor & oil. Watercolor third Wednesday & Sat. Open Painting fourth Wednesday, Oil Painting Thursdays. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes., Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 6, 13, 20, 27, Friday Night Hurst Ranch Barbecue, Every Friday evening join us for BBQ dinner buffet and family entertainment at Hurst Ranch. 5:45 grounds open. An evening of family fun and wonderful food. Reservations 984-4040 Free train rides, country barbecue served 7pm with live western stage show following, Jamestown 6, 13, 20, 27, Summer ‘Folk at the Oak’ concerts at Twisted Oak Winery, July 6: Laurie Lewis & Tom Rozum with the Bee Eaters, July 13: David Lindley, July 20: Uncle Bonsai-folk trio, July 27: Maria Muldaur. Dinner, yummy Twisted Oak wine, soft drinks, and water will be available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Bring blankets and lowback chairs for seating. Seating is first-come, first-served. Buy tickets on line for a discount or at the gate if any are left. Each event has different food and music! Come enjoy an evening under the stars!, 736-9080, www 7-28, Iron Door Saloon live entertainment in July, The Penetrators: July 6,7. The Helicopter Band: July 13, 14. Rhythm Deluxe: July 27, 28. Most bands play 9pm to 1am. Call for ticket prices and more information. Groveland, 9628904, www 7, Anniversary BBQ / Twisted Oak Winery, A wonderfully twisted event. Call for info!, Twisted Oak Winery, Vallecito, 736-9080, www 7, Independence Day Celebration, This event is fun for the whole family! There will be great food and wine, bounce houses, climbing walls and entertainment throughout the entire Ironstone winery complex. Live on stage Shane Dwight, Whiskey Dawn, and Chains Required. Gates open at 4:30, fireworks show starts at dusk and last around 30 minutes., Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys, 728-1251, www 7, 14, 21, 28, Concerts in the Pines - July, Concerts In the Pines are Saturday nights during the summer. Located on the Rotary Stage at Eproson Park, music from 6pm-8pm. Bring chairs, blankets and a jacket. Candy and popcorn are sold at the concert. July 7: Val Starr & the Blues Rocket, July 14: Jana & Friends, July 21: Michael Goodell’s Magnificent Dance Band, July 28: Dave Steeley & Friends, Eproson Park, Twain Harte, 586-4482, www

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Events which end with a www will have a link for additional information online at the Calendar of Events page at www.sierraseasons.com 11, 18, 25, Music in the Parks: July, Calaveras County Arts Council presents free music at various parks throughout Calaveras County on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm through the summer. Pack a picnic and bring lawn chairs or blankets. July 11: Patrice Pike, San Andreas, Turner Park, July 18: Wingnut Adams, Arnold Cedar Center, July 25: Alma, Mokelumne Hill Shutter Tree Park. Calaveras County Arts Council, Assorted parks in Calaveras County, 754-1774 12, 13, 14, 15, Mother Lode Fair, At the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. This event features carnival rides, food, live entertainment, pageants, agricultural displays, destruction derby & more!, Sonora, 532-7428 13, 14, 15, Natural History Discovery Program, Studies and Exploration at Calaveras Big Trees State Park 2012. Here is your chance to immerse yourself in the Natural History of the Sierra Nevada at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. $150 per person. Contact Calaveras Big Trees Association, 795-3840, www 14, 15, Murphys Heritage Day & Homecoming, Our traditional celebration in the Park. Highlights will include a concert by the Calaveras Community Band at 11:30 am, the Old Timers’ Luncheon at noon, Kayak Raffle Drawing at 1 pm and Children's Duck Races For further information contact the library at 7283036. Murphys, 728-3036 19, Mark Chesnutt, 8-10pm Country Music. Tickets at the Gift Basket., Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877747-8777, www 19, Twain Harte Nights, Live band, dogs and antique cars, Twain Harte Business Association, Twain Harte 21, Big Band Street Dance, Saturday from 8 to 10:30pm commerates the anniversary of Columbia State Historic Park with music by Rod Harris and The Columbia Kicks Band at the corner of State and Main Street. 1940’s era costumes encouraged. Columbia, 588-9128, www 12, Reba, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1800-514-3849, www 21, 22, Twain Harte Summer Arts & Wine Festival, The 35th Annual Twain Harte Summer Arts & Wine Festival presents over 100 crafts & artists including live entertainment and wine tasting. There is something here for the entire family, Twain Harte, 533-3473, www

27, 28, Town Hall Arts summer class, Watercolor Friday and Saturday, July 27, 28, 10 am to 3 pm Martha Wallace to teach watercolor on Japanese Masa Paper. Experience watercolor on this unique Japanese paper in a two-day workshop with well-known foothill watercolor teacher. You may need beginning-intermediate level of drawing and watercolor experience to make the most of this workshop. Cost is $80 for workshop. Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 27, 28, 29, Bear Valley Music Festival, Fri. July 27: Broadway Bound, Sat. July 28, Kidz Konzert, Jazz by the pool, Sun. July 29 Western BBQ and Comstock Cowboys. Call for ticket pricing and info. Bear Valley Mountain Resort, Bear Valley, 753-2574, www 27, Woven Arts of the Andes-the Fabric of a Culture, Extensive variety of weavings from the Quechuan people in Peru. Llamas provide fiber for these weavings. Please call for info about planned lectures and weaving demonstrations. Public reception Sat. July 28, Central Sierra Arts Council gallery, Sonora, 532-ARTS, www 28, Kelly Clarkson & The Fray, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www

•••••••• AU G U ST ••••••• 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Bear Valley Music Festival, Wed. Aug 1: Sonatas & Sips, Thur. Aug 2: Bach to Jazz, Fri Aug3: Horn of Plenty, Sat Aug. 4: Festival Gala, Sun Aug 5: Brunch and celebration chamber concert. Call for ticket pricing and info., Bear Valley Mountain Resort, Bear Valley, 753-2574, www 1, 8, 15, 22, August Concerts in Tuolumne Park, Wednesday evenings at the Memorial Park. Live music along with the wonderful farmers market. 8/1 Grass Menagerie, 8/8 Hills Brothers, 8/15 Rock of Ages, 8/22 Chains Required, Tuolumne 1-22, Galerie Copper Art Classes-August, Drawing Wednesdays, Second Fridays watercolor & oil. Watercolor third Wednesday & Sat. Open Painting fourth Wednesday, Oil Painting Thursdays. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes., Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 1, 8, 15, 22, Music in the Parks: August, Calaveras County Arts Council presents free music at various parks throughout Calaveras County on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm through the summer. Pack a picnic and bring lawn chairs or blankets. Aug. 1: Black Irish Band, Valley Springs Ball Field, Aug. 8: Gillette Brothers, Angels Camp Camps, Aug. 15: Plan B, West Point Elementary, Aug. 22: Sourdough Slim & robert Armstrong, Murphys Community Park., Calaveras County Arts Council, Assorted parks in Calaveras County, 754-1774

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Lavender at Rancho Torales, on tour July 7.

Farm tOur By Frank Priscaro

There is something comforting about showing your kids where a sweater comes from before it arrives at the mall. Or, seeing for yourself what makes organic vegetables taste so much better, taking a little winery tour without fighting the traffic in Napa, or standing in an entire field of lavender, breathing in that heady purple perfume. You can do it all and more on the Farm Tour 2012. There are five beautiful farms on this year’s tour: La Bella Rosa Winery: wine and food tasting, tour, gift shop, picnic area Solomon’s Gardens and Terraces: educational workshops, facility tour Mother Lode Ranch: horse-drawn wagon rides, carriage house and ranch tours, food tasting, animals on display Sweet River Ranch: facility tour, Pygora goats; weaving and spinning demonstrations Rancho Torales: olive grove and lavender field tours, olive oil and lavender samples, plein-air artists, food tasting This is a self-guided tour and can be done in any order. You can download a tour map at www.farmsoftuolumnecounty.org or pick one up at any one of three locations in Sonora: the Certified Farmers Market, Theall and Stewart Streets Saturday mornings; the UC Cooperative Extension, 52 N. Washington St., or the Diamondback Grill, 93 S. Washington St. When: Saturday, July 7, 10am to 4pm. Price: $8 in advance, $10 on the day of the event. Children under 18 free. Tickets: In advance at www.FarmsOfTuolumneCounty.org, at University of California Cooperative Extension office or on the day of the tour at your first Farm Tour stop. Wear comfortable shoes and remember to bring a cooler for any perishable purchases and a camera for the photo opps. For information, call 9283775, info@farmsoftuolumnecounty.org. 41

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The events, dates and locations listed are subject to change. Some events may require advance reservations. Phone numbers are provided for confirmation. Area codes are 209 unless otherwise noted.

••••••AU G U ST, Continued •••••• 2, Dave Stamey and David Bradley, 8-10pm Western, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 3, John Fogerty, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www 3-25, Iron Door Saloon live entertainment in July, Tequila Mockingbird: August 3, 4. The Penetrators: August 10, 11. Aaron Pearson: August 17, 18. Simple Creation: August 25. Most bands play 9pm to 1am. Call for ticket prices and more information. Groveland, 9628904, www 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Friday Night Hurst Ranch Barbecue, Every Friday evening join us for BBQ dinner buffet and family entertainment at Hurst Ranch. 5:45 grounds open.An evening of family fun and wonderful food. Reservations 984-4040 Free train rides, country barbecue served 7pm with live western stage show following, Jamestown 4, Reenactment Battle of Sawmill Flat, July 1852 For further information, Contact the Columbia Foot Dragoons: Maj. Horace Bull, Adjuntant Aka: Donn Marinovich, Columbia State Historic Park, 533-3663, www 4, Rods to Rails, Extraordinary cars take over Jamestown. Info gary@mlode.com or 984-0888, Jamestown Promotion Club, Jamestown 4, Singing Rails Music Event at Railtown 1897, Music event with Mary McCaslin, Faux Renwah and Sierra Mountain Band. 5pm Call for ticket details, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Jamestown, 984-4408, www 4, 11, 18, 25, Concerts in the Pines - August, Concerts In the Pines are Saturday nights during the summer. Located on the Rotary Stage at Eproson Park, music from 6pm-8pm. Bring chairs, blankets and a jacket. Candy and popcorn are sold at the concert.Aug. 4: Blues Box Bayou Band, Aug. 11: Corvairs, aug. 18: Chains Required, Aug 25: Buffetville., Eproson Park, Twain Harte, 586-4482, www 10, Antsy McClain and Trailer Park Troubadors, 9-11pm live music, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877747-8777, www 10, Groveland Hotel Summer Show, Back by popular demand, The Perfect Gentlemen provide the ultimate mixture of music, comedy and Vaudeville. BBC Radio calls them “Absolutely superb!” Showtime: 8:00 p.m.Tickets: $23, Groveland, 962-4000, www 10, Magic of the Night, Free event in downtown Sonora includes live music, food and dancing, car show, street entertainment and more. 69pm, City of Sonora, Multiple locations on the streets of Sonora, Sonora, 532-7725, www

10, 11, 12, Sutter Creek Ragtime Festival, Sutter Creek will be jumping again with sparkling solo sets, the festival extravaganza concerts, mixed sets featuring the talents of several festival artists, plus all the hilarity and good music spilling on into the After Hours sessions where there is always a surprise player or two. Early Bird Special All Events Badges are on sale for $60 before July 15th. All-event badges afterward will be $70. Daily badges and concert tickets are also available. 405-1563, www 11, Cave Looting/ Twisted Oak Winery, A wonderfully twisted event. Call for info! Twisted Oak Winery, Vallecito, 736-9080, www 11, Heart with Bachman/Turner, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www 12, 19th Annual Cajun Fete Dinner Dance, Calaveras Arts Council presents a great evening of fabulous food and fun entertainment. Tom Rigney and Cajun Kickers. Auction, dinner and dance. 5-10 PM at Pioneer Hotel in historic Sheep Ranch. Tickets $50 before 6/22, $65 after that. Sheep Ranch, 754-1774, www 16, Twain Harte Nights, Live band and Hot rods, Twain Harte Business Association, Twain Harte 16, Ty Herndon, 8-10pm, Country star. Tickets at the Gift Basket, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 18, 24, Summer ‘Folk at the Oak’ concerts at Twisted Oak Winery, August 18: The Joe Craven Trio, August 24: Darol Anger with Emy Phelps, Sharon Gilchrist and Rushad Eggleston. Dinner, yummy Twisted Oak wine, soft drinks, and water will be available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Bring blankets and low-back chairs for seating. Seating is first-come, first-served. Buy tickets on line for a discount or at the gate if any are left. Each event has different food and music! Come enjoy an evening under the stars! 736-9080, www 20, Murphys Historic Hotel 156th Anniversary Celebration, Great BBQ, ice cold drinks. Live music and maybe even some guest appearances by Black Bart and Mark Twain, Murphys Hotel, 728-3444 ext. 416

•••••••• S E PTE M B E R ••••••• 31, 1, 2, 3, Film Fest Twain Harte, Second annual event features independent films from around the world. Tickets go on sale 6-15. Attend original movies, lectures and VIP receptions. Downtown Twain Harte venues, www 1, Concerts in the Pines, Columbia Kicks Big Band, Concerts In the Pines are Saturday nights during the summer. Located on the Rotary Stage at Eproson Park, music from 6pm-8pm. Bring chairs, blankets and a jacket. Candy and popcorn are sold at the concert., Eproson Park, Twain Harte, 586-4482, www

1, 2, Cedar Center Arts & Crafts Festival, Arnold’s end-of-summer celebration features 60+ booths of fine arts & crafts. Continuous shows of live country/swing music The Ebbett’s Pass Volunteer Fire Dptm. will be serving local beers, and a variety of home-made food booths, kettlekorn, and baked goodies. The Ebbettís Pass Lion’s Clubs holds their all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast of ham, eggs, & pancakes both days from 7:30-11:00am for just $6. The Festival runs from 10am-5pm each day. Call 925-372-8961. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, September Saturdays in Coppertown Square, Every Saturday night in September join us for live music! Copperopolis, www 2, Jackie Evancho and Tony Bennett, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www 5-26, Galerie Copper Art Classes-September, Drawing Wednesdays, Second Fridays watercolor & oil. Watercolor third Wednesday & Sat. Open Painting fourth Wednesday, Oil Painting Thursdays. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes., Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 7, Groveland Hotel Summer Show, “I Like It, I Love It!” Tribute to Tim McGraw by Tom Drinnon. Showtime: 8:00pm. Tickets: $19, Groveland, 962-4000, www 7, Summer ‘Folk at the Oak’ concerts at Twisted Oak Winery, September 7: Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg classical/world music mandolin duet. Dinner, yummy Twisted Oak wine, soft drinks, and water will be available for purchase. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Bring blankets and low-back chairs for seating. Seating is first-come, first-served. Buy tickets on line for a discount or at the gate if any are left. Each event has different food and music! Come enjoy an evening under the stars! 736-9080, www 8, California Admission Day Parade in Columbia, The Native Sons of the Golden West, sponsors a California Admissions Day Parade in Historic Columbia. The Native Sons have a tradition of preserving California History-the parade is one of those that started in 1876, and revived in 2008. There are many other events held on Admissions Day in Historic Columbia, the parade is just one of them. For information, call 588-1565. 8, Jeff Foxworthy, Ironstone Summer Concert Series; live on stage; call for info on dinner packages, ticket prices and times; tickets at Ticketmaster, Ironstone Vineyards Amphitheatre, Murphys, 1-800-514-3849, www

Events which end with a www will have a link for additional information online at the Calendar of Events page at www.sierraseasons.com

8, The Spaniard Dinner/ Twisted Oak Winery, A wonderfully twisted event. Call for info!, Twisted Oak Winery, Vallecito, 736-9080, www 8, Twain Harte Duck Race, 3rd Annual, A fundraiser fromTwain Harte Business Association to fund more activities for the Twain Harte area. All ducks are numbered and will be put into the lake at appoximately 4:00 pm. First rubber duck to reach a predetermined location will win $100, 2nd prize $50 and 3rd prize $25.The lake will be open for swimming until the ducks are released. Twain Harte Lake, 586-5565 8, 9, Me-Wuk Indian Acorn Festival, Annual Acorn Festival is a Celebration of Tradition. Traditional dancing, hand games, crafts, Indian deep-pit barbecue, vendors. Indian tacos, deep pit barbeque, Native American arts & crafts, Tuolumne Rancheria, Tuolumne, 928-3475, www 14, John Waite, 9-11pm. classic rock star, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 15, A Taste of Calaveras, 11am to 3pm An exciting celebration of wine, food art and culture of Calaveras County! A food and wine experience, featuring vintages from Calaveras wineries and gourmet foods from Calaveras restaurateurs. Calaveras artists will also be attending with a special art show along with a premium silent auction featuring Calaveras Experiences and Calaveras products. $30 per person in advance and $40 per person at gate. Info 754-0127 or email donna@schantzads.com 15, Back to School 1861 Columbia, Join us for a beautiful evening at the historic schoolhouse. During this reminiscent event, take a tour of the upstairs, sit in on a lesson taught by a docent dressed as an 1860s school teacher, play games of long ago, listen to music, and help make hand-cranked ice cream. Contact Columbia State Historic Park at 5889128. 15, 16, Quilts and Threads Show, 10-5 on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday, Free Parking. Our show features over 250 exhibits of quilting, embroidery, weaving and spinning.Quilts, Door Prizes, Boutique, Vendors, Quilt Appraiser, Refreshments Admission Charge: $7.00 for one day or $10.00 for two day pass, Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Sonora, 532-7521, www 16, Columbia Art Show, This fine art show features 50 local painters, sculptors and photographers who will display their art on the shady streets of the Columbia State Historic Park. This event is free to the public. 9am to 5pm For more information, call 536-9047 20, San Francisco International Stand-up Comedy competition semi finals, 8-10pm, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1877-747-8777, www 22, Annual Sierra Apple Festival, Old-fashioned family fun with activities and surprises. Pie-eating contests, apple peeling and cider demos, crafts, food, live entertainment, popular hay maze for children, a special luncheon, live historical characters,cider press demos and more! 10am5pm, Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Sonora, 201-6436, www 22, The Monophonics, 9-11pm. Horn-driven funk band, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 22, 23, Concours D’Elegance, “A Celebration of Automotive History” Becoming a renowned event for classic automotive enthusiasts, the Concours d'Elegance is an event committed to helping foster young citizens who will make a difference in the world. Tickets cost $20 per adult or $35 per couple or a family, (a family is considered two adults and 2 children). Information call 736-2561. Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys, www 28, Cioppino Feed, Murphys Hotel, All You Can Eat, 5pm- 9pm Our Cioppino includes but not limited to, prawns, crab legs, mussels, clams, calamari, and cod. This is served with a house salad and fresh house made garlic bread! 728-3444, Murphys

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Central Sierra Region -

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Presenting the only Calendar of Events covering the complete Central Sierra region, from Oakdale to the Sierra Crest, from Yosemite National Park to the Gold Country

•• O CTO B E R, Continued •• 29, Poison Oak Show, Enjoy a particularly unusual show of poison oak displays. Like a traditional flower show, except all entries include poison oak! Trophys awarded. Musical entertainment from 1 to 4pm, St Charles Saloon, Columbia State Historic Park, 533-4656 29, 30, Annual Calaveras Artists Studio Tour and gallery exhibit, Saturday & Sunday, Passports cost $10 per person and it is made up in booklet form with directions, short bios and photos of artists’ works. Sponsored by The Calaveras Arts Council, 754-1774, www

•••••••• O CTO B E R ••••••• 3-24, Galerie Copper Art Classes-October, Drawing, Oil, Watercolor classes from various instructors. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes, Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 5, 6, 7, Mark Twain Motherlode Festival, Friday, October 5 Modesto Gallo Center, Hal Holbrook performance at the Modesto Gallo Center (a bus will leave Angels Camp and take group to the Gallo Center) Saturday 10am to 5pm - Museum Open House, Angels Camp Stop by and see the Mark Twain Exhibit! 10am Symposium on the life and work of Samuel Clemens presented by scholars from the Mark Twain Project at the Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley, 6pm - Gala Eveningwww.marktwainfestival.org, Call for ticket prices and info: Caroline Schirato 736-1507 6, Calaveras Grape Stomp, Grape Stomp & Gold Rush Street Faire, Murphys - Celebrate the 19th anniversary of the Calaveras Grape Stomp & Gold Rush Street Faire, from 9:30am to 5 pm in the historic Gold Rush town of Murphys, hosted by the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance. There is no charge to attend the event. Visit calaverasgrapestomp.com or call 754-0127 or 728-9467. Murphys area, 607-0782 6, Fiddle & Bango Contest, 10:30am to 4pm, Musicians will compete for prizes in the following categories: fiddle, banjo, vocal, guitar, mandolin and miscellaneous. The grand prize is a gold nugget, and there are cash and gift certificate prizes in each category. Enjoy chili cooked and served by Columbia Chamber teams at various locations in town. For more information, call 209-536-1672. 6, Youth Concert for the Bach Festival, the month-long celebration of classical music in the Mother Lode. Classical music concert featuring outstanding area students. The Church of The Forty-Niners, Columbia. Ticket price $5. Sonora, 536-6330, info@sierrabach.org, www 6, 7, Twain Harte Oktoberfest, 10am-5pm Approximately 50 artists will display and sell their fine wares which include watercolor, pen & ink, pottery, leather, candles, fine jewelry, clothing & accessories, woodworks, folk art, leather goods, soaps and lotions, garden art, gourmet food products. Twain Harte Chamber, Eproson Park, Twain Harte, 586-4482

11, Jason Michael Carroll, 8-10pm country star, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 12-28, Mother Lode Art Association Exhibition, Annual juried art show. Central Sierra Arts Council Gallery, Sonora, 532-ARTS, www 13, 14, Columbia Harvest Festifall, Join us for a cornucopia of country crafts, comestibles, demonstrations of skills, and music and dancing on the shady streets of Columbia State Historic Park, decorated for the harvest season. Sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Call 536-1672 or visit columbiacalifornia.com. 13, Riverbank Cheese & Wine Exposition, 10am More than 200 vendors, consisting of arts and crafts and food booths, add excitement to this festive occasion. Professional entertainment and a community stage of local performers provide an upbeat atmosphere for the young and young at heart. Riverbank Rotary Club, Riverbank, 863-9600, www 13, 14, Salon Concert and Master Class Workshop with Robin Fisher, The month-long celebration of classical music in the Mother Lode. An intimate evening of classical music and fine cuisine held at a local area home. Refreshments 6pm. Concert 7:30pm. Dessert with the artist following the performance. Advanced reservations required. Call for ticket prices and locations of both concert and workshop. Sonora, 536-6330, info@sierrabach.org, www 14, Jamestown Heritage Days, Promotion club of Jamestown presents a tribute to the History of Jamestown, Jamestown, 984-3370 19, 20, 21, Annual Mountain Heirloom Quilt Faire, 9 - 4pm Fri-Sat, 10-4 Sun. Quilt Faire features quilts, wall hangings, wearable art, dolls, needle art and member challenge exhibit. $7.00 admission at the door. There will be door prizes, demonstrations, boutique with quilts and other handmade items for sale, Country Store with homemade goodies to eat for sale and Vendor Booths, Independence Hall Quilters, Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys, www 20, Stories in Stones, Columbia, Visitors are led through Columbia’s historic cemetery by costumed volunteers carrying lanterns where they will visit 13 grave sites. The dead come to life as interpreters tell about their lives, how they died, and how they came to lie in Columbia’s cemetery. Contact Columbia State Historic Park at 588-9128 21, Locals Concert for the Bach Festival, the month-long celebration of classical music in the Mother Lode. Featuring noted Mother Lode musicians. Come hear your friends and neighbors at this standing room only classical music concert. The Church of The Forty-Niners, Columbia. Ticket price $10., Sonora, 536-6330, info@sierrabach.org, www

Central Sierra Region -

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Events which end with a www will have a link for additional information online at the Calendar of Events page at www.sierraseasons.com 21, 22, All Hallows Fantasy Faire, The Dark Ages were never this much fun! Live music, Fantasy Village, costumed performers, fire eaters, village marketplace, ancient warriors, dragons, contests , jugglers and family games, Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Sonora, 533-4420, www 26, Cioppino Feed Murphys Hotel, All You Can Eat, 5pm.- 9pm. Our Cioppino includes but not limited to, prawns, crab legs, mussels, clams, calamari, and cod. This is served with a house salad and fresh house made garlic bread! Priced at $22.95 per person. For reservations please call 728-3444, Murphys 26, Ironstone Silent Movie Night, Featuring The Phantom of the Opera at 6:30 p.m. Admission: $ 20 plus tax and gratuity, include buffet dinner. Call 728-1251 for reservations., Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys, www 27, Illumination of the Jack O’Lanterns, Carve your pumpkins, turning them into classic pegtoothed grinners, artfully chiseled ghouls, leering witches, or any family-friendly design of your choosing. 5:30pm, 536-1672 www 28, Bach’s Brunch for the Bach Festival, the month-long celebration of classical music in the Mother Lode. A very popular Sonora Bach Festival finale enjoyed in a local venue to be announced. Reservations required. Ticket price $30. Sonora, 536-6330, info@sierrabach.org, www 31, The Murphys Hotel’s Halloween Costume Party, Live music, drink specials and cool prizes. This will be a Ghoulish Time! Murphys Hotel, 728-3444 ext. 416

•••••••• N OVE M B E R ••••••• 1-22, Galerie Copper Art Classes-November, Drawing, Oil, Watercolor classes from various instructors. Call for costs, times and schedule of other classes., Copperopolis, 785-2050, www 2, Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen, 9-11pm “Hot Rod Lincoln”, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www 3, Calaveras Winegrape & Gourmet, 1-4pm. Award-winning local wines are paired with local gourmet culinary creations, artisian cheese tasting, raffle prizes, Tickets $50. For info contact the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance, Ironstone Vineyards, 728-9467, www 3, Stanislaus River Salmon Festival, 10am 3pm Knights Ferry Recreation Area (Stanislaus River - 12 miles east of Oakdale, Kennedy Road off Hwy 108/120)Free family friendly event. Live music, fish print shirts, Salmon obstacle course, face painting, fly fishing demo, historic tours, educational exhibits, food. For more info call: J.D. Wikert 334-2968 ext. 403 8, Lacy J Dalton, 8-10pm Classic country star, Willow Creek Lounge - Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne, 1-877-747-8777, www

9-30, 1-22, Native American Month Exhibit, Celebrating Native American month in the front gallery: California History: Yosemite and the California Trails of Jo Mora. Rear gallery: Duende Drama & Literature - California Stories, Central Sierra Arts Council Gallery, Sonora, 532-ARTS, www 23, Historic Downtown Sonora Christmas Parade, Evening parade on historic Washington Street. Enjoy decorated floats, cars, animals and lots of fun. Open Houses throughout the town. Visit in Courthouse Square with Santa after the parade. Sonora, 532-7725, www 23, 24, Christmas in Jackson, Jazzin’ It Up in Jackson - Free music; art & wine on Main St., Jackson. 6-9pm with 3 bands, Art by the Inch, food vendors, beer garden, wine tasting in Main St. shops (fee for commemorative glass), street performers and so much more. 223-9038 www.amadorarts.org 23, 24, Cowboy Christmas Gift and Craft Show, Friday from 5-9pm and Saturday, from 9am - 4pm at the Gene Bianchi Community Center in Oakdale.This is a community event and free to the public. There are over 40 exhibitor booths and you’ll find just about anything western and more! There is beautiful western art, furniture, jewelry, apparel, cowboy grub and entertainment! Contact Oakdale Cowboy Museum at 847-2244 or www.oakdalecowboymuseum.org, Oakdale. 23, 24, Hometown Crafters Holday Faire and Craft Boutique, This Holiday favorite features hand-made crafts and goodies. A variety of crafts and homemade goodies will be available for Christmas shoppers in a festive holiday atmosphere. 10am-5pm, Sonora Opera Hall, Sonora, 536-9625 25, 26, 27, Sonora Christmas Craft Festival, Hosted by Fire on the Mountain at the Mother Lode Fair Grounds. This highly regarded festival features over 250 quality crafters and artisans, with a wide variety of music & all in the spirit of Christmas. This spirited celebration of the season features music, carolers, arts and crafts and food. Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Sonora, 5333473, www

MORE INFORMATION AMADOR COUNCIL OF TOURISM 115 Valley View Way, P.O. Box 40, Main Street, Sutter Creek, 267-9249, www.touramador.com AMADOR COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 596, 571 So. Main, Jackson 95642; 223-0350; www.amadorcountychamber.com AMADOR COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL P.O. Box 1722, 21 Main St., Sutter Creek 95685; 223-9038; www.acaconline.com CALAVERAS COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL 22 Main St.; P.O. Box 250, San Andreas 95249; 754-1774; www.calaverasarts.org CALAVERAS COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1211 S. Main, Angels Camp 95222 • 736-2580; www.calaveras.org CALAVERAS VISITORS BUREAU P.O. Box 637, 1192 S. Main St. Angels Camp 95222; 736-0049; 800-225-3764 (CAL-FROG) www.gocalaveras.com CENTRAL SIERRA ARTS COUNCIL 193 S. Washington St.; Sonora 95370; 532-2787 www.centralsierraarts.org HIGHWAY 120 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 1263, Groveland 95321; 800-449-9120 www.groveland.org HISTORIC SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 884, Sonora 95370; 588-9625 www.sonorachamber.com OAKDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 590 N. Yosemite Ave. Oakdale 95361 847-2244; www.oakdalechamber.com TUOLUMNE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 222 Shepherd St. Sonora 95370; 532-4212 www.tcchamber.com TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU 542 Stockton St., Sonora 95370 533-4420 • 800-446-1333 www.tcvb.com UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE Stanislaus National Forest Headquarters 19777 Greenley Rd. Sonora 95370; 532-3671; 24-Hour Recreation Info: 532-9784 www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus Calaveras Ranger District Office 5519 Highway 4, P.O. Box 500, Hathaway Pines 95233; 795-1381 www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/calaveras All phone area codes are 209 unless otherwise noted

www Several events listed here have additional information online that can be found at

www.sierraseasons.com Check the website for an updated calendar with links, and submit your event. 45

RECOMMENDED READING... For exploring the history of our area, Sierra Seasons recommends...

RIVER OF SKULLS

A novel of the Gold Rush by J.F Langton Eloquent Books www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/RiverOfSkulls.html Review by Frank Priscaro “James Marshall’s discovery of gold at Coloma turned out to be a seminal event in history, one of those rare moments that divides human existence into before and after. When news of the discovery floated down the Sacramento to the more populated regions of California, it sucked nearly every free hand and available arm to the gold mines, leaving children to ask where their fathers had gone and wives wondering when their husbands would return.” H.W. Brands The Age of Gold Janet F. Langton has written a trueto-life account, not so much of the history of Gold Rush (although there is plenty of historical accuracy), but about the people who made that history, who dug it out of the ground, or sluiced it out of the mountains, who traded it for whiskey and lumber, calico and cholera, and paid their way with sweat and muscle-aching labor, and proved that here, at least for some, anything is possible. But this story would be less remarkable and certainly much less entertaining if it weren’t written in the feminine first person, in the character of Emily Fairfield, a young New Haven, Connecticut, newlywed who comes to California searching for her lawyerturned-prospector husband. As Langton’s story shows it wasn’t the farrago of prospectors, gamblers, saloon keepers, general store merchants, Indians and immigrants who made California livable – although they certainly made it lively – it was the women who came here determined to create civilization, or something like it, out of the chaos so rightly called the Wild West. Taking the women’s perspective on taming the new territories allows Langton to show us a side of life we perhaps take for granted, or worse, simply overlook. In doing so, Langton honors the tradition of clear, strong women’s voices in the vein of Laura Ingalls Wilder and Willa Cather, to give this novel the resonance of memoir, to show not just how the West was won, but how it was won over. Fairfield is part debutante, part true sister of the prairie – she rides and shoots, patches up injured miners, holds her own with a world-class raconteur 46

and gives birth several times with no more anesthetic than a little herbal tea. Yet she does it all without losing her charming East Coast gentility, but rather, carefully lays it aside for the sake of her husband, her new home and her new life. Being a miner is a hard road, but no more so than being a miner’s wife. As Emily admits to herself when musing about her husband’s fidelity while they were apart, “men are very different creatures from women.” It’s those differences that make for such a captivating tale, and for all that, Emily is such a finely drawn character she becomes someone you’d want to know in real life. You might find her in the dining room of a fine San Francisco hotel – a stately, older woman, obviously respected and well off, full of hard-earned wisdom and good humor, her posture as fine as her manners, her floor-length satin dress glowing in the afternoon’s honeyed light. Like the gold she helped dig out of the California hills, she simply shines with purpose and possibility. About the author: Langton, born and raised in the farmlands of Oregon, migrated to California’s fields of gold where she now lives near Mountain Ranch in Calaveras County. Her extensive travels in Europe brought her in contact with the cultures from which many of the ’49 prospectors came. This intimate knowledge of research and personal contact creates the rich texture of time and adventure that is “The River of Skulls.” The book can be purchased from many local book stores, on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble.

BOTH: JUDY STOLTENBERG

e r u t n e v d A Always ans Free! Alway

A Living Gold Rush Town Handmade Soap, Candy & Toys Street Musicians • Gold Panning • Live Theatre

COLUMBIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

209/536-1672

www.columbiacalifornia.com SPECIAL EVENTS

Full Espresso Bar Lunch Specials Sandwiches Homemade Cookies Hot & Cold Drinks Ice Cream • Hardtack

Every Saturday & Sunday: Town Tours Every Second Saturday: Gold Rush Days MAY 31 - JUNE 3: Columbia Diggins 1852 JUNE 9, JULY 7, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 6: Ghost Tours JUNE 9: Sarsaparilla Roundup JUNE 16-17: Father’s Day Fly-In JUNE 17: Columbia Car Show JUNE 18-22: Summer Art Camp JUNE 23: Summer Street Dance JULY 4: Glorious 4th Celebration JULY 21: Big Band Street Dance AUGUST 18: Summer Street Dance AUGUST 25: Button Show SEPTEMBER 8: California Admission Day SEPTEMBER 15: Back To School 1861 SEPTEMBER 16: Columbia Art Show SEPTEMBER 28-30: Tuolumne Writers Retreat SEPTEMBER 29: Poison Oak Show OCTOBER 6: Fiddle & Bango Contest OCTOBER 13-14: Harvest Festifall OCTOBER 20: Stories In Stone OCTOBER 27: Illumination Of Jack-O’lanterns NOVEMBER 11: Veterans Day Rememberance NOV. 23 - DEC. 16: Candy Cane Making NOV. 30 - DEC. 1: Docent Lamplight Tour DECEMBER 9: Merry Merchants DECEMBER. 8, 9, 15, 16: Miner’s Christmas DECEMBER 9: Equestrian Parade DECEMBER 9: Las Posadas Nativity MARCH: Columbia Birthday Celebration APRIL: Easter Parade & Egg Hunt APRIL : Wine Festival MAY: Fireman’s Muster

ERIN POOLEN

THE SECRETS OF SUCCESSFUL COMPOSTING

Recycled pallets provide side ventilation and divide the compost into “working” and “done” piles.

By Erin Pollen, Gardener at Sierra Waldorf School and former Master Gardener

FALL

IS THE PERFECT TIME TO START YOUR COMPOST PILE.

With all those fallen leaves, spent vegetable plants and kitchen scraps you can be off to a great start. Gardeners love to say, “Composting just happens,” but there are certain things you can do to speed up the process and ensure successful results in time for your spring garden. Here are some tips to get you started. CHOOSE A LOCATION AND CONTAINER A well-drained spot with easy access and some shade is ideal. It should be at least three feet by three feet. Creating a bin will help keep out critters and hold in the heat. Straw bales or wooden pallets are inexpensive and very effective for containing and insulating your pile. Just make a U-shape, leaving the front side open for easy access. You can prop some wire across the front to keep out any animals that might be attracted to the pile. You may also want to have more than one bin so you can be working on a new batch of compost while the other is busy decomposing. Start by covering the bottom of the compost area with a few inches of twigs or dry material that will allow for good air circulation. Then you can start adding your materials. WHAT TO COMPOST Composting is a bit like making a cake; the right ingredients will create a good final product. Kitchen wastes including vegetables, fruits, egg shells, coffee grounds, nuts, tea bags and grains are all suitable. To minimize rodent and fly problems, don’t add animal scraps, such as meat or dairy products. 48

Garden debris includes dead-headed flowers, spent vegetable plants, grass clippings, leaves, straw (not hay as it has many weed seeds), feathers, saw dust and manure from non-carnivorous animals can be added too. No weeds. No cat, animal or human feces as they may contain pathogens. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER This is what will determine how fast your pile will become that beautiful, crumbly material we call “black gold.” The science (and secret) behind faster composting is all about the carbon-tonitrogen ratio, plus air and water. One part green/wet material to two parts brown/dry materials is a good ratio to aim for. The green stuff is your kitchen waste, fresh garden debris, coffee grounds and manures. The brown stuff consists of leaves, straw, chipped branches, etc. Start adding your materials in layers, watering well after each dry layer. Aim for a flat top, like lasagna, not a dome like an ice cream cone. Add a few inches of native soil to the top of your pile, then cover with a final layer of dry material, such as leaves, and water well. If you have access to a few shovelfuls of compost, this will really facilitate the

process but is not necessary. At this point, if you did nothing else, eventually it will decompose, but by turning your pile once a week and making sure it is not too wet or too dry, you can have useable compost within three to six months, instead of one or two years! You may continue to add materials to your pile at any time until it is about four feet by four feet. Mix in the new materials with the original so it is not just sitting on the top of the pile. Top the completed bin with a piece of plastic or shade cloth and start a new pile next to it. Having two piles helps one completely decompose while you are adding materials to the second pile. By the time your second pile is full, your first pile should be ready to use and you can start a new pile in its place. TROUBLE-SHOOTING PROBLEMS Most composting problems are related to an imbalance of green versus brown stuff, or too much or too little air/moisture in your pile. Fortunately, these are easily remedied. If your pile is very smelly and full of flies, it is too wet and does not have good air circulation. To fix this, simply add more dry/brown ingredients and turn it more often for better aeration. There should be lots of worms and other insects in your pile. Ants are okay; they will eventually disappear as the pile decomposes. USING YOUR COMPOST Your compost is ready to use when it is dark and crumbly. Spread an inch or two over your beds and work into the top layer of soil or use it as mulch around existing plants, including house plants. WHY COMPOST? If you still need a little encouragement to start composting consider this: it’s good for the environment, it’s cheaper than purchasing soil amendments and reduces the amount of garbage going into landfills. Will Rogers, who lived through the great dust bowl, once said: “They’re making more people every day—but they ain’t making any more dirt.” Composting helps rebuild our depleted soil, maintains moisture levels, keeps soil PH in balance and helps suppress plant diseases while providing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and many micronutrients necessary to all plants. Composting is definitely a good thing, so let’s get started!

JUDY STOLTENBERG

Habitat Homes Go Green in the Foothills By Amy Nilson The first of 35 homes is now complete with new owners moved in.

DRIVE

BY THE NEW DUPLEX IN

HABITAT

FOR

HUMANITY’S

NEW

PARROTTS

Ferry Village project near Columbia, and you’ll see a prominent feature on the roofline. These are the first solar panels that will be part of every home that will be going into this impressive project – a 35home subdivision that will be built over the next several years by the hardworking staff and volunteers at Habitat for Humanity of Tuolumne County. Pacific Gas & Electric has pledged to cover the cost of solar panels on every structure in the new neighborhood. Solar panels and many other energy efficient features have always been included in every affordable home provided by Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Tuolumne and Calaveras counties. For more than a decade both local agencies have kept up a steady pace of building one home a year, as well as providing assistance with remodels and “touch ups” for qualified low-income homeowners. Then Tuolumne County in 2010 took on an ambitious opportunity by acquiring its Parrotts Ferry site and was thrilled to have PG&E and other donors step up their support as well. The solar energy systems, along with high-quality insulation, dual-pane windows, energy efficient appliances and other features, mean every Habitat home at Parrotts Ferry will meet high energy efficiency standards and keep on-going energy bills as low as possible. “That’s an important accomplishment and a huge benefit for our families,” said Tuolumne County Executive Director Betsy Harden. The first duplex at Parrotts Ferry Village was completed in April, and two local families became the neighborhood’s first 10

homeowners. The second duplex is set to go up in a “blitz build” in May and June. The remaining homes will be built over the next five years in partnership with qualified lowincome buyers and Habitat volunteers and donors. “We’re beginning to turn plans into reality,” Harden explained. “We’ve seen such a surge of support at every level. It’s invigorating to be a part of this and realize how many people will see their lives change forever. It’s going to have a powerful impact on our entire community.” Local Habitat teams also operate another “green” venture – their Habitat for Humanity ReStores, where building materials and home improvement supplies can be donated, reused and recycled, with all proceeds supporting the Habitat mission. The Calaveras County ReStore in San Andreas has been open for several years, and the Tuolumne County ReStore in East Sonora opened at the end of 2010. Shoppers can find great prices on recycled or overstock building materials, appliances, plumbing and lighting fixtures, furniture and more. “We divert three to four tons of waste from the landfill every month,” said Sonora ReStore Manager Robin Decker. “It’s been amazing to see it grow.” Interested in learning more? To donate, volunteer or find out about local projects, check out habitattuolumne.org or habitatcalaveras.org. Stop by a local ReStore in Sonora at 14384 Cuesta Court or at 172 California St., San Andreas.

RESTORING HISTORY OLD BUILDINGS IN THE FOOTHILLS

preserve the history of the Gold Rush period that birthed them and when restored, allow the stories and experience of the past to come alive and fill our senses with the touch, the beauty and simplicity of earlier times. As a strong and hardy people dug and panned for gold, an entire community was built around this endeavor, leaving us a unique history with buildings and places that bring back the old days.

PHOTOS: ARICA BRIE SOBEL

THE

The past is a wellspring for our communities today - a source of our tourist industry. People come from all over the world to step into the Gold Rush experience in search of its history, if not the gold. These historic buildings, built in the mid1800s, are stacked rock with mud – some are wood or timber frame with batten board siding or ship lap, some are mud brick and mud seams (adobe) with lime plaster, or a combination. If the foundations were not undermined by erosion, the stone buildings have lasted pretty well. The wood buildings were typically built close to the ground, with post and beams on top of rocks making the foundation more vulnerable to dry rot. The old timers built these shelters expecting them to biodegrade after their passing, or leaving them to future generations to care for. They also did not have many of our amenities - indoor plumbing? What a luxury compared to heading for the outhouse in a snow storm! Compare the convenience of electricity to the kerosene lamps or candles of the past. While the light source was no doubt welcome, the poor air quality was not. Today, with heating and air conditioning, we enjoy a very comfortable space any time of year. In those days, wood stoves provided some warmth, but these old buildings were drafty, not insulated and not all that comfortable by our current standards. Many of the old buildings have very high ceilings – most were 9, 10 or 12 feet high. This allowed summer heat to rise above the head height mitigating the oppression of accumulated heat. Frequent use of tall double-hung windows was a good passive design solution for cooling the space. By pulling down the upper window on the south side of the building and raising up the lower windows on the north side, the hot air at the ceiling is drawn out the upper windows on the south side, pulling in cool air through the open lower windows on the north side. Our ancestors had a good understanding of passive thermal dynamics and working with nature for their comfort and survival. They used and reused and recycled everything because they had to make everything from scratch and by hand. An incredible amount of time, labor and skill went into these buildings, and 150 years later they still bless us with their presence and gift us with their history. 50

This house was was built into the hillside. Below, construction required removing the dirt and rocks from the basement ceiling and replacing damaged wood. New floor beams and joists could then be installed. The new kitchen, right, preserves the character of its age, with the modern amenities for today’s lifestyle.

These buildings are a resource and a great lesson in simplicity. Each has a story, a past history to share and a future to live. In Calaveras and Tuolumne counties, we have a number of towns with old buildings that line the main street. The downtown areas are surrounded by homes, churches, carriage houses, community halls and firehouses built during the Gold Rush. I have been blessed to work with the owners of historic buildings who value these properties and want to restore them to their original grandeur. Restoration involves many types of work from foundation to finish. The intention is to maintain the original historic fabric, the actual materials and how they were used, and look of the era. For example, if the building has 1 x 8 horizontal ship lap painted pine siding, it would not be replaced by T-11 plywood siding. If the 1 x 8 pine siding is dry rotted or no longer structurally sound, it would be replicated with reclaimed wood. One such project was the restoration of a 1920s carriage house. The building was being reclaimed by the earth. Built on the ground with earthen floors, the post and single wall construction were rotting, and it was starting to fall over. Historic restoration requires that 50 percent of the building is kept intact and standing. You cannot just disassemble the whole thing, put in a new foundation and then rebuild it. So we lifted the building 2½ to 3 feet and dug a perimeter foundation under it. After, we poured an insulated concrete slab floor inside the foundation. We then reframed the original walls and lowered the building down onto the new foundation. The board and batten siding was removed and soaked in a 50/50 mixture of linseed oil and turpentine, the preservation method of the historic fabric material. This siding was so old and fragile it was no longer a viable weather and waterproof material for the building. We installed shear plywood to the framing covered with a waterproof barrier. Because the original siding would not hold up to hammering, the siding was screwed back onto the building. While maintaining the historic fabric and original look, the carriage house now has indoor plumbing, electricity, insula-

sierra green days

Vibrant Health, Homes & Communities By Johanna Atman

tion and a heater/air conditioner. We used all the original siding, posts and beams to restore the building’s original look, while implementing all the new building science and materials to modernize and make an energy-efficient building. Instead of housing horse and carriage, the building has been re-purposed to house archeological artifacts and documents that require conditioned space. Another project was the restoration of a 1850s home that has been in the family for five generations. Many memories have been made in this home over all these generations, but the home had fallen into disrepair: porch roofs were failing, the bathroom and kitchen needed remodeling and the cobbled-together plumbing and electricity needed replacing. A different and unique aspect of this building is that it has a stacked rock and mud foundation, 2 feet wide, forming a full basement so the house was well above ground. The house is framed with full dimension 2 x 4 sugar pine. Sugar pine is more resistant to moisture and dry rot as is redwood and cedar, due to the high sap (oil) content of the wood. The floor of the house was built on top of the basement ceiling framing. A hand-hewn Douglas fir beam runs down the center and rests on the rock walls and 4 x 8 beams two feet on center run out from that to the foundation sides. On top of that structure was installed 1” x 10” pine, then 4 to 6 inches of dirt as insulation. The floor of the house was framed on top of the dirt insulation with posts on rocks to support the floor joist beams and the 2 x 4 floor joists. Thus, the basement ceiling beams served as the support for the floor framing of the house. Over the years with plumbing leaks, the kitchen sink and bathtub had over flowed, washing the dirt out from under the rocks, causing the floor to sag 6 inches in 12 feet. The tongue and groove flooring was carefully removed from the kitchen, living room and dining room so we could get under the floor and jack it up re-supporting the floor framing. All the flooring was re-milled with tongue and grooved, then re-installed. The dining room had originally been a porch, which over the years became enclosed. With the floor removed, the floor joists could be properly attached to the house, as were the roof rafters. We reused all the original materials. When needed, salvaged wood of the same type was milled into siding, flooring and wall coverings. With the walls, floors and ceilings all insulated, this home has all the beauty and charm of days gone by with all the comfort and efficiency of current technology. The best of both worlds! Jan Schmidiger, specializes in historic restoration and green building. Hardy Custom Builders, (209)728-3113. hardycustombuilders.com

The seeds we plant in the spring magically become the bounty of our harvest in the fall. To celebrate the abundance of this cycle of life, mark your calendar for the weekend of September 29 and 30 at Ironstone Vineyards 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Murphys for Sierra Greeen Days 2012 - Energy, Ecology and Economy. In its third year, this event continues to grow and add new dimensions in inspiration and education on how we can live a more sustainable and fulfilling life through developing and supporting local resources in a spirit of creative collaboration. Great weather, fall colors, the local harvest from apples to zucchinis along with gratitude for all the abundance of this Earth we share with each other are all great cause for celebration! Since its inception in 2010, Sierra Greeen Days is a special time for the local community to see and appreciate itself and, discover, sometimes in surprise, all that is here in our own backyard. That first year the most common comment I heard was, “I had no idea all this was here…I thought it was only in places like the Bay Area.” For those outside the area, it is a wonderful window into the rich creativity and nature of local talents, hidden in the trees and off country roads. Sierra Greeen Days brings the community together to educate, learn, experience and be inspired about ways we can live that are truly sustainable and create vibrant communities full of life, creativity and celebration. You’re invited to see the resources, products and services of our region focused on sustainable health care, eating and growing green, green homes and materials, and building community for two days in a village festival atmosphere with live music, speakers, healthy local family-friendly food, vendor booths, Green Professional exhibitors, demonstrations, kids activities, community celebrations, a gala dinner, raffle and surprises (more being added all the time)! A special feature of SGD’s educational program featuring both local and outside speakers on topics such as housing, finance, food, preventative health and transitions into an unknown future will be a panel of five local physicians by the Mark Twain Healthcare District. Highlights on both Saturday and Sunday are the community celebrations - a time when everybody comes together in one place and one time to share something special. The World Spirit Celebration on Sunday at 1 p.m. brings together local representatives of most of the major world spiritual traditions into an inter-faith ceremony of music, movement, prayer and song that delights the heart and expands the experience of “sustainable life” beyond light bulbs and solar panels to what sustains us as human beings. With a comprehensive program of diversity and depth, and an extraordinary collaboration of local businesses and organizations, Sierra Greeen Days is well on the way to fulfilling its vision: to be the regional hub for innovative thinking and action with local solutions as models and a resource for communities all over the region and beyond. 51

D I N I N G ------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 49/108 JAMESTOWN • SONORA • COLUMBIA

------------------------------------------------------BLACK OAK CASINO– 19400 Tuolumne Rd. North, Tuolumne, 877-747-8777. 24 hours, 7 days, year round. MC, V, D, AE. BLACK OAK CAFE–Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, including weekly buffets. Weekend buffets feature prime rib carving station, desserts, and beverages. Breakfast ($), lunch ($), dinner ($$) KINGPINS–Located on our first floor family entertainment area. A perfect area to bring the family to enjoy our 24-lane bowling center, unique arcade. Breakfast ($), lunch ($), dinner ($); Call ahead for parties THE MILL SPORTS BAR– Full service bar & a 15 foot big screen TV w/8 satellites. Full line up of sporty menu items for you to enjoy while watching your favorite game. Breakfast ($), lunch ($), dinner ($$) SEVEN SISTERS RESTAURANT– Located atop of the Black Oak Casino, nestled in the Sierra foothills. Our unique menu features a selection of fine American Cuisine paired with our nightly chef’s signature dishes. Also featuring a private lounge and an extensive upscale wine selection. Dinner ($$$); R. BROWN’S COFFEE HOUSE– Columbia, next to the City Hotel. 532-1850. Coffee drinks; hot, iced & blended. Shave ice and ice cream. Homemade cookies, brownies and home of the famous sarsparilla soda. Open daily 9am5pm. CHICKEN RANCH BINGO AND CASINO– 6929 Chicken Ranch Road, Jamestown, 800-75-BINGO. 9am - 1am. American Diner fare, burgers & deli sandwiches, breakfast specials, soups, salads & a wide range of snacks. Breakfast 9-11am ($) Lunch/Dinner ($) MC, V, D, AE. COVER’S APPLE RANCH– 19200 Cherokee Rd. Tuolumne, 928-4689. Near Tuolumne City, off Tuolumne Rd. Rustic atmosphere, geared towards families. A full line of bakery items including pies, pastries, cookies, & breads. Sandwiches, soups, & fresh garden vegetables in season, and, of course, apples. 6:30am-6pm. Lunch ($); MC & V. DIAMONDBACK GRILL–93 South Washington Street, Sonora, 532-6661. thediamondbackgrill.com Great hand-crafted food, fine wine and attentive service in our dramatic Gold Rush era building. Best burgers in town and wonderful salads. Homemade soup. Daily specials. Wine bar next door. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Monday thru Thursday-11am to 9pm; Friday thru Saturday 11am to 9:30pm; Sunday-11am to 8:00pm $-$$, MC, V.

PRICE INDICATOR (average per person, + beverages) $- under $8; $$- $9-18; $$$- $18 and up OPTIONS American Express- AE; Discover- D; Diners Club- DC; MasterCard- MC; Visa- V; Reservations (accepted/recommended)- R All area codes are 209

GUS’S STEAK HOUSE– 1183 Mono Way, Sonora, 532-5190. The finest dining steakhouse in Tuolumne County featuring special dinner entrees. Open for lunch and dinner TuesdaySaturday 11am to closing. Closed Sunday and Monday. Dinners include sourdough bread with cheese fondue, with choice of soup or salad, choice of pasta or potato and fresh vegetable. Special Early Bird dinners available 2 for $19.95 1pm-7pm. (Holidays excluded on Early Birds.) Outside dining available. ($, $$, $$) Call for information on special events available 7 days a week. HERE’S THE SCOOP– 18242 Main St. Jamestown, 984-4583. Ice cream parlor. Oldfashioned soups, salads, sandwiches, espresso. Pies and desserts made from scratch. Premium quality ice creams. Open at 7am, 7 days a week. Lunch ($) AE, V, MC, V.

most popular meal. Breakfast 7-10am. lunch and dinner 10:45 to 5pm Monday - Friday. Dinner not served weekends. Weekend hours: 8:15am to 10am and 10:45 am to 2pm for lunch. THE WILLOW STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD GRILLE–Main Street at Willow,

Jamestown, 984-3998. Family owned and operated since 1972. Burgers, ribs, sandwiches and petite menu daily. Family dining. $-$$; MC & V; R. --------------------------------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 108 TWAIN HARTE • PINECREST • STRAWBERRY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

KENNEDY MEADOWS RESORT – Kennedy

Meadows Road off of Hwy. 108, 965-3900, 58 miles east of Sonora. Pack station resort restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. May-Oct., MC & V.

HISTORIC NATIONAL HOTEL (1859)– Main St. Jamestown, 984-3446, nationalhotel.com. Area favorite for fine dining. Acclaimed continental cuisine and award winning wines. Fresh seafood and pastas, choice prime rib and steaks, decadent homemade desserts. Enjoy patio dining, weather permitting. Full bar and espresso saloon. Open daily. Sunday brunch. Lunch ($-$$), Dinner ($$$$$); AE, D, MC & V; R.

MIA’S– Highway 108, Cold Springs, 965-4591, We focus on using the freshest ingredients possible and we prepare everything to order. Our unique menu includes pastas, fresh seafood, chicken, ribs, steaks, gourmet pizzas from our brick oven, salads & desserts. We have over 35 beers & an eclectic wine list featuring local wines as well as wine from around the world at affordable prices. Lunch & dinner daily - closed Tuesdays.($, $$, $$$) MC, V.

HOOLIGAN’S PUB & EATS– 18228 Main Street, Jamestown, 984-5050, More than 25 beers. Dine in and take out. Live music Friday and Saturday. The only Celtic pub in town! Enjoy burgers or bangers & mash, shepherds pie, fish and chips. Lots to choose from! Restaurant 11am to 9pm Tues. through Sun., Bar 11am - 9pm Thurs. thorough Sun., open til 2am Fri. and Sat. Lunch ($-$$), Dinner ($$).

STANDARD POUR–19040 Standard Road off of Hwy 108. East Sonora. 532-7687 standardpour.com In the historic Pickering Lumber building. Great sandwiches and creative grilled food. Large variety of beers on tap. Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-9pm. Friday and Saturday 11am-9:30pm. Sunday 11am-8pm. Lunch, dinner $-$$; MC, V.

JACK DOUGLASS SALOON– 22718 Main Street in Columbia, 533-4176, The best sandwiches in town are at this 150-year-old historic saloon. Open for lunch every day. Friday night tri-tip suppers from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Salads, chili dogs, tacos and the reknowned humongous nachos are also available. Coldest beer in the Mother Lode and the No. 1 venue for local musicians. Lunch ($) Dinner ($$). PATTY’S SHACK– 532-2438, 22267 Parrotts Ferry Road, patt-sue@sbcglobal.net Enjoy traditional American and Greek cuisine in our quaint Columbia seting. This family owned restaurant serves home style fresh made soups, salads, desserts and much more 7 days a week. We have upscale dinners on Fri. and Sat. nights from 4pm to 8:30pm. come in and try our delicious food. fun and friendly service. Breakfast ($), Lunch ($$), Diner ($$$); D, MC & V; R. THE GARDEN CAFE at Sonora Regional Medical Center–1000 Greenley Rd, Sonora.

536-3677. Vegetarian cuisine with an emphasis on Mexican, Mediterrnean, Indian, Italian and Chinese dishes. The cafe supports locals vendors with its fresh fruits and vegetables, six flavors of coffee and desserts. Chiles rellenos is the

STEAM DONKEY–Pinecrest Lake Resort, 9653117. Located near the General Store. Great decor, excellent food. Menu includes choice BBQ steaks, fish, chicken as well as specialties like Teriyaki Sirloin and Rack of Lamb. Lunch ($), Dinner ($$); MC & V; R. --------------------------------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 49/4 COPPEROPOLIS • MURPHYS • ARNOLD ANGELS CAMP • BEAR VALLEY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

ALCHEMY WINE BAR & CAFE– 191 Main St., Murphys, CA 728-0700, alchemymarket. blogspot.com, Enjoy "Comfort food with a twist", seafood, steaks, famous soup, and "overthe-top" desserts in our dining room, patio, or by the fireplace in the bar. Over 30 local wines by the glass and the largest selection of beer in the Sierra Foothills, featuring "extreme", Belgian, and other hard to find beers from around the world. Kid's menu includes drink and dessert! We can accommodate large parties. Live music every Tuesday and Friday nights (check website for schedule and current menus). Lunch 11-4, dinner 4-8, closed Wednesdays. AE, MC, and V. ANGELO’S STEAK HOUSE– 140 Main Street Murphys 728-9200 angelossteakhouseital-

D I R E C T O R Y iano.com We feature traditional homemade Italian food. Freshly made pastas, grilled steaks ranging from a 16 oz T-Bone, a 10 oz. New York, and a Kobe center cut. Beer and wine. Kids’ menu too! We have a happy hour from 36pm. Open Wednesday - Sunday 3pm to 9pm. BIG TREES DELI– Meadowmont Center in the Big Trees Market, Hwy. 4, Arnold. 7953868. A great place for a quick, nutritious meal for the person on the go. Pick up a delicious deli sandwich or some super moist Chester Fried Chicken. Be sure to check out all the other “deli-casies” while you’re there. Open 7 days. Breakfast($) lunch($) dinner ($$). MC; V; R. CAMPS AT GREENHORN CREEK– Angels Camp, 736-8181, Dining with us includes fresh, local ingredients. The food is comfortable, yet artistic with innovative flair along with regional classics. Hand-cut steaks and fresh fish prevail, salads are hand tossed and slow-roasted prime-rib is served Fri. & Sat. nights. Great lunches. Sun. brunch from 10am2pm includes the best Eggs Benedict around. Lunch Wednesday-Saturday 11:30am-5pm, Dinner 5-8pm. COPPER GRILLE AT SADDLE CREEK GOLF CLUB– 1001 Saddle Creek Drive, Copperopolis, 785-7400. Perfect for a casual night out or a special event. Overlooking the 9th hole lake, The Copper Grille boasts a charming dining room and bar area, as well as a patio for outdoor dining with panoramic views of the Sierra foothills. Great selection of California and Calaveras wines. The menus are elegant but affordable and feature fresh seasonal items througout the year. Specializing in fresh seafood and beef butchered in-house daily. Prime rib on Friday and Saturday nights. Breakfast ($$) Lunch ($$) Dinner ($$$); AE, MC, V; R. GRIFF’S BBQ & GRILL–304 Town Square Road in Copperopolis, 785-4745. Serving up slow smoked BBQ, steaks, ribs, sandwiches, salads and more. Using fresh ingredients and prepared on-site every day. Enjoy tender ribs, 14hour pulled pork and the best barbeque sauce in town! Beer on tap. Open for lunch and dinner starting at 11:30am Wed. through Sun. Open 5pm Mon. for Monday Night Football. Lunch ($$), Dinner ($$, $$$). AE D, MC, V.

IRONSTONE VINEYARDS GOURMET DELICATESSEN– 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, 728-1251, ironstonevineyards.com. Our gourmet delicatessen provides a selection of culinary delights. Stop in for a glass of our Award winning wines and enjoy our deli with gourmet sandwiches and housemade soup. Enjoy the great food and friendly ambience on the patio overlooking the gardens or dine inside next to our magnificent fireplace. Be sure to take a stroll through our magnificent gardens and don’t forget to stop at our gift shop for a variety of apparel and gifts. Open 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. $-$$ MC, V, D, AE.

LAKE ALPINE RESORT– 753-6350, Bear

Valley. Offering a unique dining experience overlooking Scenic Lake Alpine on Hwy 4. The menu changes every season with new and fun choices always being added. Enjoy the great food and friendly ambience on the deck overlooking the lake, or dine inside next to the fireplace built by Monte Wolfe. Open Monday Friday 11am to 3pm for lunch; Saturday and Sunday 8am to 3pm for breakfast and lunch; and daily 5pm to 9pm for dinner. Open thru mid-October. LAKE TULLOCH RESORT– 7260 O’Byrnes Ferry Road, Copperopolis, 785-8200. Lakeside dining. Call for hours. MURPHYS HISTORIC HOTEL RESTAURANT– 457 Main St. Murphys, 728-3444, 800-532-7684, www.murphyshotel.com. Serving delicacies from grilled alligator to slow-roasted prime rib; from fried chicken to pan-seared duck. An old time saloon with an extraordinary top shelf. Proudly serving home made dressings, yummy sauces and house made desserts. Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. PEPPERMINT STICK– 454 Main Street, Murphys. 728-3570, We offer New York-style pizza by the slice and whole pies; certified Black Angus hamburgers consitently voted best hamburgers in Calaveras County; mouth watering BBQ pulled pork and pulled chicken; St. Louis style ribs, gourmet meat or vegetarian lasagna and large kids’ menu selection. We feature Dryers ice cream with twenty four flavors. Our desserts include banana splits and old fashioned milk shakes. Summer hours 11am to 9pm. Lunch ($$), Dinner ($$). D, MC, V. SARAFINA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN– 794 Highway 4, Arnold. 795-9858. Featuring classic Italian dishes from Grandma’s spaghetti and meatballs or chicken Parmesan to the Mediterranean scampi or rich New York steak with red wine-gorgonzola sauce. We accommodate any special request and parents appreciate our kid’s menu. Cozy log cabin interior and fireplace perfect for a couple’s night out or large families enjoying summer dining on the patio. Extensive local wine list, as well as local microbrews on tap. Open Wed.-Sun., 5-8pm. Take out avaiable R. V, MC, AE. --------------------------------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 120 GROVELAND • OAKDALE • YOSEMITE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUCK MEADOWS RESTAURANT & BAR– 962-5181, 7647 Hwy. 120 at Buck Meadows, Certified Agnus beef, steaks, burgers, pasta, salads; breakfast, lunch, dinner. 7:30am 10pm, Wi-fi; $-$$. CHARLOTTE BISTRO & BAR– 18736 Main Street, Groveland, 962-6455, Located in the Hotel Charlotte in downtown Groveland. We are focused on clean, healthy food that features local organic ingredients. Modern American cuisine with a casual rustic ambiance. We also highlight local Sierra Foothills wines. Dinner ($$$) AE, MC, V. R.

EVERGREEN LODGE– 33160 Evergreen Rd. Groveland, 379-2606 or 800-93-LODGE. Bordering Yosemite off Hwy. 120. A historic mountain lodge and Frommer’s Guide favorite located in an idyllic forested setting. Newly renovated & expanded. Serving 3 meals a day in a variety of settings. Dinner in the main restaurant includes fresh seafood,wild game, BBQs, pasta favorites, & hearty salads. Casual dining is offered at lunch & dinner in Evergreen’s vaulted ceiling outdoor patio & classic 1920s tavern. Backpacker & picnic lunches are available. Breakfast/ Lunch($-$$), and Dinner ($$-$$$); AE, D, DC, MC & V; R. GROVELAND HOTEL’S CELLAR DOOR RESTAURANT– 18767 Main Street, Groveland, CA, 962-4000, California seasonal fresh, fine dining with a full service saloon and a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence wine list. Our gourmet menu includes a selection of appetizers, salads, soups, entrees and desserts. Our new ‘Trios of Tastes’ menu features three different items from each of our various menu categories. A great way to try everything! You’ll also want to try our special Chocolates Menu, with 13 different chocolates. Our Courtyard is open for warm weather dining, under the lighted umbrellas – very romantic! We welcome special events; groups and families celebrating special times. Open 7 nights, 5:30pm – close. Breakfast buffet from 8 – 10am. Breakfast ($$), Dinner ($$$) IRON DOOR GRILL– 962-6244, 18761 Main Street, Groveland. Th Iron Door Grill features fresh California cuisine including fresh homemade pasta dishes, steaks, ribs, fish, vegetarian items, soups, salads and of course our delicious habmurgers and bufalo burgers. All of our food is made fresh daily. Choose our dining room or historic saloon to enjoy a meal with a shot of history too! Lunch ($$), Dinner ($$); MC, V; R.

-------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 12/4 SAN ANDREAS • VALLEY SPRINGS

-------------------------------------------------VISTA GRILLE AT LA CONTENTA GOLF & EVENT CENTER–1653 Highway 26, Valley Springs, 772-1082. Restaurant overlooks beautiful La Contenta Golf Course. Offers both outside deck dining and inside dining with views sure to please. The delicious and well rounded menu offers California cuisine embracing a casual ambiance with that country club feel. “The Place to Be” in Valley Springs. Open daily for breakfast, featuring a mouth watering “Country Special”, and lunch with yummy burgers and sandwiches and oh those sweet potato fries! Friday night dinners are a treat and seasonally Wednesday night famiy friendly buffets give you that mid-week break. Come enjoy! ($-$$) R.

L O D G I N G ------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 120 GROVELAND • LAKE TULLOCH • OAKDALE

------------------------------------------------ALL SEASONS GROVELAND INN– 18656 Main Street, Groveland. 962-0232, www.allseasongvrovelandinn.com 23 miles from Yosemite gate. Each of five suites offers upscale amenities: jacuzzi, steam room, fireplacws, fresh ground coffee stations. BIG CREEK MEADOWS GUEST RANCH– 962-1942, 10551 Smith Station

Road at Hwy 120, www.bigcreekmeadow ranch.com. Originally a stage stop in the 1800s, this site is now a beautiful working guest ranch between Groveland and Yosemite. Two rooms available plus room for events, gatherings, retreats and weddings. EVERGREEN LODGE– 33160 Evergreen

Rd. Groveland, Bordering Yosemite off Hwy. 120, 800-93-LODGE or 379-2606, www.evergreenlodge.com, info@evergreenlodge.com. Frommer’s Guide describes the Evergreen as “the classic Yosemite experience.” Sunset Magazine calls it “The West at its Best - a Hidden Gem.” The historic mountain lodge, newly expanded & renovated, features spacious, furnished cabins with private decks, a restaurant, tavern, general store & recreation/activity center. An idyllic destination hideaway for those seeking a rich, nature-oriented experience in a warm and relaxed mountain setting. 1 mile from the park border, so you can explore all of Yosemite’s natural wonders. $99-299; (satellite TV in tavern), R, M, W; AE, D, DC, MC & V. GROVELAND HOTEL AT YOSEMITE– 18767 Main Street, Groveland. 962-4000. Located 23 miles to the Highway 120 entrance to Yosemite National Park. A 17-room country inn, with full service fine dining restaurant. 1849 adobe and 1914 Queen Ann buildings provide old-world comfort with down comforters, featherbeds, fine linens and amenities; flat screen TVs and in-room coffee service. Three two-room suites with fireplace and spa tub. Free parking, wi-fi, full hot breakfast. Members of CA Assoc. B&B Inns, Unique Inns, Select Registry and AAA. HOTEL CHARLOTTE– 18736 Main Street, Grovelad, 562-6455. www.hotelcharlotte.com. Located in downtown Groveland on the way to Yosemite. Enjoy the rustic quirks of this charming historic bed and breakfast coupled with a wonderfully inviting ambience and stellar service that will leave you wanting ore. Hotel Charlotte is nostalgic Old West with contemporary sensibilities. Also the home of the Charlotte Bistro & Bar featuring modern American cuisine. $99 to $199. 10 units; G, TV, TVm, Ph, R, P; AE, MC, V.

LODGING ABBREVIATIONS TV– television; TVm– w/movie channel L– laundry services or facilities K– kitchen units available R– restaurant in walking distance M– meeting or banquet facilities S– swimming pool

HT– hot tub or sauna T– tennis G– golf Ph– direct-dial phones W– wheelchair access P– pets okay

YOSEMITE LAKES RV CAMPING & CABINS– 31191 Hardin Flat Road,

Groveland, 962-0121 or 800-533-1001. Located 5 miles from Yosemite National Park. Full hookups, tent sites & rental accommodations. Open all year. 74 units; $35-99; G, TV, L, K, W, P; D, MC, V. YOSEMITE RIDGE RESORT– 962-6877, 7589 Highway 120, Groveland, www.yosemiteridge.com, Only 12 miles to the west gate of Yosemite. We feature family cabins, camping cabins, full hookup RV sites and garden cottages. General store, restaurant, showers, gasoline and propane all on site! YOSEMITE WEST RESERVATIONS – in

Yosemite National Park, (559)-642-2211. www.yosemite westreservations.com. Between Yosemite Valley & Wawona, near Badger Pass/Glacier Point turn. Rooms, condos, cottages, & vacation homes, fully furnished. Complete kitchen, fireplace, private baths, TV/VCR & deck in every unit. Units to accommodate 2-8 people; $95-$475; TV, K; AE, D, MC, V.

-----------------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 49/108 JAMESTOWN • SONORA • COLUMBIA -----------------------------------------------------------49er RV RANCH– 23223 Italian Bar Rd. serving Columbia State Historic Park, 53249RV, www. 49RV.com. Old ranch hospitality since 1852. Full hookups, showers, store, cable TV, propane; Good Sam & AAA approved. Seniors & clubs welcome. 45 sites; WIFI, TV, L, R, M, P, MC, V. BARRETTA GARDENS INN– 700 S. Barretta Street, Sonora, 532-6039. Within walking distance to downtown Sonora and antique stores and restaurants. An elegantly restored 1904 Victorian farmhouse, fully central air-conditioned. Known for its special, warm atmosphere and Gold Country views, it is handicap accessible and pet friendly. Surrounded by old-fashioned gardens, we offer seven tastefully decorated non-smoking bedrooms with private baths. Morning coffee or tea to your door and a full breakfast served in the living room or porch. $140-$225. MC, V. Golf nearby, TV, meeting room, W. HISTORIC NATIONAL HOTEL– Main

Street, Jamestown, 984-3446 or 800-894-3446. Boutique Bed & Breakfast Hotel with full service fine-dining restaurant and saloon. Romantic rooms restored to the elegance of a bygone era. Enjoy our complimentary gourmet buffet breakfast, including a morning paper and freshly ground coffee. All rooms have private baths with hand-tiled showers and pull-chain toilets, air conditioning and free wireless internet. Check

CREDIT CARDS: AE–American Express D–Discover DC–Diners Club MC–MasterCard V–Visa

www.national-hotel.com for Specials, Theatre Packages and Murder Mystery Weekends. $140170; G, TV, P, M, R; MC & V. ROYAL CARRIAGE INN– 18239 Main St.

Jamestown, 984-5271. royalcarriage inn.com, info@royalcarriageinn. $105-195; 11 Victorian-style rooms in the main building and 5 private, secluded cottages (some with full kitchens). Romantic porch with two swings overlooks our lovely gardens. All rooms are fully air-conditioned with private baths and wireless internet. Spa services, dinner and theater packages, meeting room, in-house wedding coordinator. We do conferences, family reunions and group getaways. Full gourmet breakfast for all of our guests. G,TV, TVm, K, R, P; MC, V, AE, D.

------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 108 TWAIN HARTE • PINECREST • STRAWBERRY

------------------------------------------------BREZINA & GOOD REALTY– Highway 108, Strawberry, 965-4080, www.strawberryvacations.net, dvgcabins@earthlink.net A great selection of summer and winter cabins available for rental in the Strawberry, Pinecrest, Cold Springs, and Leland Meadows areas. All cabins are clean and comfortable and include many amenities. Some have great river views. $100-$290; TV, Ph, L, K, W, P. CABINS AT STRAWBERRY– 31888 Highway 108, Strawberry, 888-965-0885, strawberrycabins.com.Year-round cabins on the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. Clean, comfortable cabins are 2-3 bedrooms and sleep 4-8 people with all amenities including central heat, gas fireplaces, fully furnished kitchens and all linens. All cabins non-smoking and some pet-friendly. Just 5 miles to Dodge Ridge and Leland Snow Play & 2 miles to Pinectest. Spring /Fall Specials $129 for two. $129 to $229, TV, K, P. MC, V. CABIN ON THE RIVER– 28757 Herring Creek Lane, Strawberry, 800-965-3884. Two story windows with views of S. Fork Stanislaus River, 32 mi. east of Sonora. Five minute drive to Pinecrest Lake and ten to Dodge Ridge. Walk to post office, store and restaurant. Two story, 3BR 2 Bath, fully furnished including linen, cable TV, VCR, DVD, wood fireplace & propane heat. The sound & view of the river provide a unique and peaceful vacation. $160$250; TV, Ph, L, K, R, P. KENNEDY MEADOWS RESORT–

Kennedy Meadows Road off of Hwy. 108, 9653900, 58 miles east of Sonora. High country cabins at the pack station resort. Call for availability. May-Oct., Ph, L, K, R, M, P; MC & V.

G U I D E PINECREST LAKE RESORT– Pinecrest,

965-3411. Closest lodging to the lake, restaurant & store. Motel–2 queen beds, daily maid service, sleeps 4; Cabins–2 & 3 bedrooms, sleeps 4 & 6; Town Houses–2 & 3 bedrooms, fireplaces, sleeps 6 & 8; $75-275; T, TV, K, R, M, W; MC & V. PINECREST CHALET– 500 Dodge Ridge Road, Pinecrest. 965-3276,

alumni.berkeley.edu/chalet. Pinecrest Chalet offers a variety of accommodations to meet the lodging needs of any size family or group. Mini-chalets promise quaint lodging in oneroom cabin suites complete with fully stocked kitchens, fireplaces, full baths and two queen sized beds. Intimate chalets feature a king sized bed and Jacuzzi tub. Spacious townhouses & deluxe cabins offer two to four bedrooms, fully stocked kitchens, and large living rooms with fireplaces. Non-kitchen cottages offer lodging amenities at a very modest price. These one room bungalows sleep two to four and include shower baths and basic cooking conveniences. WiFi, complementary coffee; $75-375; S, G, TV, K, R, W, P; MC, V.

------------------------------------------------HIGHWAY 49/4 ANGELS CAMP • MURPHYS • ARNOLD COPPEROPOLIS • BEAR VALLEY

------------------------------------------------ANGELS INN TRAVELODGE–600 N. Main St. Hwy 49, Angels Camp. 736-4242 or 888-753-0226. Angels Camp’s largest motel boasts a 3 Diamond AAA rating with country charm and city convenience. Continental breakfast delivered to your room, complimentary espresso & cappuccino in the lobby. Take advantage of our computer with free DSL internet access as well as Xbox systems & video rentals. Room amenities - refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hair dryer, iron with board, data ports. 15 room types including suites. We also offer adventure, golf and pamper packages. $65 to 220; S, G, TVm, Ph, L, K, R, M, W, P; AE, D, MC & V. ARNOLD MEADOWMONT LODGE– 2011 Hwy 4, Arnold, 795-1394. A 19-room motel with newly remodeled rooms and upgraded furnishings. In-room coffee, satelite TV, WIFI. Our location makes us convenient to all the wonders of the Ebbetts Pass area: Big Trees State Park, Sierra Nevada Logging Museum, Bear Valley Ski Resort and many beautiful lakes and streams. $59-$125: G, TVm, Ph, R, W, P; AE, D, MC & V. BEST WESTERN CEDAR INN & SUITES– 444 S. Main St. (Hwy 49) Angels Camp, 7364000, 800-767-1127, www.bestwesternangelscamp.com. Angels Camp’s most luxurious inn. Scrumptious continental breakfast. Room amenities: microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, hair dryers, irons, two-line phones, data ports, voicemail. Also available: fireplace, whirlpools & two-room suites, honeymoon suite. AAA (3 diamond rated) corporate and senior discounts. $89-279; S, HT, G, TV, Ph, L, R, W, P; AE, D, M & V.

BLACK BEAR INN– 343 Oak Circle, Arnold, 795-8999. Experience the extraordinary! Our 5,200 square-foot timber frame inn is on 1.3 acres in a park-like setting. All five guest suites have king size beds with down comforters, gas fireplaces, private baths with jacuzzi tubs and separate showers, and private french-door entrances. A chef's breakfast is served daily, and wine & cheese are served every afternoon. $218 - $265, TV, L, R, M, HT, Ph, W; AE, D, MC, V. CADDY SHACK AT GREENHORN CREEK GOLF RESORT– 1-800-324-7524, 711 McCauley Ranch Road, Angels Camp. Anew, fun & affordable cours-side lodging retreat geared for golf groups of up to 12. Friends, family, teams, business groups. A Golf Retret like no other! CEDAR CREEK REALTY–1332 Oak Court, P.O. Box 818, Arnold, 795-4663, 866-7465050, www.cedarcreekrealty.com (for photos). Your top choice for a wide variety of beautiful vacation cabins in Blue Lake Springs, Lakemont Pines and Big Trees. $366-$565 per weekend; G, TV, Ph, M & V. LAKE ALPINE RESORT– 4000 Hwy 4, Bear Valley. 753-6350, lakealpineresort.com. Unique mountain lake experience. Features 9 rustic cabins and activities like boating, fishing, hiking and biking. Visit the General Store, dine at the Restaurant & Bar. Open mid-May through October. Reservations taken year-round by phone. LAKE TULLOCH RESORT – 785-8200,

7260 O’Byrnes Ferry Road, www.laketullochresort.net. 48 rooms, many with breathtaking views of Lake Tulloch. Pool, marina, event accommodations. Full service restaurant. MURPHYS HISTORIC HOTEL– 457 Main St. Murphys, 728-3444, 800-532-7684. Opened in the summer of 1856, the hotel was a stop over for the stagecoach going up to Big Trees. Famous guests include Mark Twain, Ulysses S. Grant and Susan B. Anthony. Nine historic rooms and 20 modern rooms. Your choice of suites or rooms with the bathrooms down the hall. Fine restaurant and saloon open 7 days a week. Conveniently located in the middle of Murphys surrounded by 21 wine tasting rooms and a wide array of shops and activities. www.murphyshotel.com G, TV, Ph, R, M, W; AE, D, MC, V.

MURPHYS SUITES–134 Hwy 4, Murphys, 877-728-2121, www.centralsierralodging.com. Enjoy Murphys in luxury, grand comfort in the ‘Queen of the Sierra’. Our elegant 70-room non-smoking facility provides you with a comfortable stay, one or two room suite (rated 3 Diamond by AAA). Continental breakfast delivered to your room. Rooms have coffee, iron, hair dryer, make-up mirror, Oxygenics shower head, refrigerator, microwave, data ports & premium satellite channels. Relax poolside, in our spa, sauna, fitness room, conference room or surf the net on our computer with Free DSL internet access;+ $75-250; S, HT, G, TVm, Ph, L, K, R, M, W; AE, D, MC & V. SADDLE CREEK BUNGALOWS – 1001 Saddle Creek Dr. Copperopolis, 785-7415, saddlecreekbungalows@castlecooke.com, 800611-7722. Bungalows offer 2 bedrooms 2 baths, a full kitchen, a great room with fireplace and media center. French doors open to patio and fairway views. Steps away from lodge dining, and golf shop. Meeting facilities available. 16 units, $120-$360; S, HT, T, G, TV, K, R, M, W. THE DUNBAR HOUSE, 1880– 271 Jones Street, Murphys, 728-2897, www.dunbarhouse.com. Come and be pampered at our Inn. We specialize in offering our guests total relaxation, comfort and ease. Our AAA 4-Diamond B&B has 5 King or Queen guest rooms, each w/private bath/showers, Norwegian gas burning stoves, free wireless, DirecTV, personal amenities and fresh baked cookies. In-room refrigerator is stocked with complimentary local bottle of wine, appetizer plate, and bottled beer & water. Enjoy a full country breakfast in the morning. Plan your romantic getaway today! $200-$300, TV, R, AE, D, MC & V. TIMBERLINE LODGE–Arnold, 795-ROOM, Timberline is a building rich in history yet modern and convenient. Centrally located in Arnold, you’ll enjoy easy access to all the food and fun! Rooms at Timberline Lodge are delightfully different. Many have rocking chairs, free-standing gas fireplaces and vaulted ceilings. Rustic decor with beautiful wood and log accents exceptionally clean and comfortable. Rooms available for one person or for a family or group of eight. $79 to $179. arnoldtimberlinelodge.com.

MURPHYS INN MOTEL– 76 Main St. Murphys, 728-1818, 888-796-1800. Walking distance to downtown Murphys (3 Diamond AAA rating). We offer rooms with two queen beds & suites. Our two story interior access motel is entirely smoke-free and includes inroom coffee, hair dryers, iron with board, video rentals, fitness room, seasonal pool & computer with free internet access. We offer adventure, golf and pamper packages. $75 - 220.; S, G, Tvm, Ph, L, R, W; AE, D, MC & V.

ARNOLd Pharmacy Is Here to Help Meadowmont Pharmacy, 2182 Highway 4, C-230 in Arnold, has been serving customers for decades. Chief Pharmacist, Bonnie Ahart, is a long-time resident of Calaveras County and enjoys serving the community. Meadowmont Pharmacy offers their customers a wide variety of services, while assisting in helping them with their medical needs. The pharmacy also offers a nice variety of unique gifts, toys, greeting cards and over-the-counter products. In addition, customers are able to pay their PG&E bills at the pharmacy, as well as drop off their dry cleaning. Hours of operation are 9am to 6pm Mondays through Fridays and 10am to 4pm Saturdays. You can reach the pharmacy at 795-1155.

MuRPHYS Ironstone a MustSee Family owned and operated, Ironstone Vineyards at 1894 Six Mile Road in Murphys, offers visitors a wide range of opportunities with award-winning wines in its magnificent tasting room, the Music Room featuring the Alhambra pipe organ, private meeting rooms, gourmet deli, culinary demonstration room, wine aging cavern, the Heritage Museum where you’ll find the world’s largest specimen of crystalline gold leaf (44 pounds), Jewelry Shoppe and impressive amphitheater all surrounded by pastoral gardens. Complimentary winery tours are offered Monday through Friday at 1:30pm starting in the tasting room in front of the three-story fireplace. Saturday and Sunday tour hours are 11:30am and 1:30pm. Ironstone is so much more than a winery. There is always something interesting happening there – weddings and special events of all varieties, cooking demonstrations, silent movies, holiday brunches, concerts and gold panning for children of all ages.

Tasting room hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Jewelry Shoppe and Heritage Museum hours are 11am to 5pm daily. For additional information, call 728-1251 or visit online at ironstonevineyards.com.

grapes are grown. The winemaking process is a close working relationship with each of the truly dedicated growers. Because of this, winemaker and owner Steve Millier, is able to individually select the best possible grapes to work with for each vintage.

Olive Oil and Vinegar Tasting

Grapes for the Heritage Old Vine Ghirardelli Zinfandel come from a vineyard that was planted in Calaveras County in the 1890s and has been in the Ghirardelli family for five generations. The 2012 harvest will celebrate the 112th year that the Ghirardelli family has harvested these grapes and the 25th year that Milliaire Winery has produced Zinfandel from these grapes.

Opened in May, 2010 by Mary Lou Schuster, Marisolio Tasting Bar on Murphys Main Street offers fine olive oils and balsamic vinegars. All of the olive oils are extra virgin, coldpressed and unfiltered, and many of the oils are varietals accompanied by an intriguing selection of flavor-infused olive oils. Specialty oils include Black Truffle, White Truffle, Roasted Almond, Roasted Walnut and Roasted Sesame. Aged balsamic vinegars from Italy, wine vinegars and honey vinegars are also available for tasting and pairing with the oils. You can also find artisan pastas at Marisolio, including a selection of gluten-free pastas. All of the pasta products are complemented by the oils and vinegars offered at the store. Gift packs, olive oil skin care products, jarred olives and rubs for meats, poultry and seafood are some of the additional products available. Open hours are 10am. to 5pm. Wednesdays through Sundays and noon to 5pm. on Tuesdays. Ask about cooking demonstrations and special events by calling 728-8853 or visiting online at marisolio.com.

Reaching for a Milestone Milliaire Vineyard Selections, founded in 1983 by Steve and Liz Millier, is committed to producing small lots of distinctive wines crafted from grapes grown in the Sierra Foothills. Milliaire wines are marked with richness; each of their wines has its own personality experienced through an inviting bouquet, balanced flavors and a smooth, lingering finish. The “Vineyards Selections” on the label refers to the fact that the wines reflect the flavors of each vineyard where the

You can taste the current vintage of Heritage Old Vine Ghirardelli Zinfandel by visiting the tasting room at 276 Main St. Murphys, open from 11am to 5pm daily.

Black Sheep’s first vintage in 1984 was a small lot of Zinfandel sourced from Clockspring Vineyards in Amador County, which began a wonderful Zinfandel tradition that grows each year. Sourced from both Amador and Calaveras county grapes, Black Sheep continues to win award after award. Over the years the winery has expanded its offerings to also include such varietals as Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and the lesser-known Cinsault. In addition to the Black Sheep label there is also a line of whimsical table wines, “True Frogs,” as a tribute to Calaveras County’s jumping frog history. The winery tasting room is located in a historic yellow farmhouse at 221 Main St. in Murphys. Guests are welcome daily from 11am to 5pm.

New Menu at the Peppermint Stick The Peppermint Stick located in downtown Murphys has recently updated their menu for greater customer satisfaction. The Peppermint Stick is much more than an ice-cream parlor – it’s a restaurant. Besides serving delicious Dreyer’s Ice cream with New York-style pizza and certified Angus beef hamburgers, they have added fish and chips, meat and vegetarian lasagna and barbecue pulled-pork and chicken sandwiches. The Peppermint Stick’s familyfriendly atmosphere, irresistible menu and choice of indoor or outdoor seating are a fine recipe for a good time. Summer hours are 11am to 9pm daily and they can be reached at 728-3570.

Black Sheep Celebrates 28 Years This year’s harvest marks the 28th year that Black Sheep Winery has been producing award-winning wines in Calaveras County. Founded by Janis and David Olson with assistance from current owner and winemaker, Steve Millier, Black Sheep produces big, bold wines that are “different from the rest of the flock.”

Hovey Tasting Room Opens in Murphys The nationally and internationally-acclaimed wines of Chuck Hovey are now available for tasting in the Hovey Winery Tasting Room, 350 A Main St., located in the historic 1850 Albert Michelson house in the heart of downtown Murphys. A well-respected winemaker in the Sierra Foothills for more than 30 years, Chuck realized his dream in 2008 when he released the first line of Hovey wines. In just a short time production tripled to 1,200 cases with 1,600 planned for the 2012 harvest. Chuck’s wines have won both national and international awards including a gold medal for the Hovey 2009 Tempranillo at the 2011 Tempranillos al Mundo international wine competition (one of two golds awarded to a winery in the United States), and most recently the 2009

HIGHL Barbera was honored with a double gold medal and “Best Red” at the 2012 U.S. National Wine Competition. Chuck dedicated 24 years to Stevenot Winery, is the winemaker for Gianelli Vineyards in Jamestown and has come full circle and making wine for the Stevenot brand. Wine tasting room hours are noon to 5:30pm. Thursdays through Mondays and by appointment Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You’re invited to taste and relax in the garden area for an iconic Murphys experience. For information, call 728-9999 or visit hoveywine.com.

Summer Pottery Classes at Quyle Pottery classes are being offered at Quyle Kilns, 3353 Highway 4 just above Murphys, Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Classes begin at 11am and last until 4pm, and cost is $25 per class, which includes clay and firing of a small piece. Guests are invited to bring a lunch and/or snack and beverage. Beginning students can finish a piece in one day; advanced students can work on more elaborate projects. There are many events scheduled at Quyle this summer including an Art Open House with wine and music June 23 and a ceramic conference and exhibit with music July 21. For class reservations or for more information, call 7283562.

SAN ANdREAS New Name, Same Mission Since 1986 the organization to which mark Twain St. Joseph’s Hospital belongs has existed under the name Catholic Healthcare West. That name has officially changed to Dignity Health. “The word ‘dignity’ perfectly defines what we stand for – showing respect for all people by providing medical excellence,” reported Nicki Stevens, Manager, Marketing

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and Business Development. “That means utilizing the most advanced medical technology, clinical expertise and working closely with patients so they can lead healthy, meaningful lives. And, of course, it means doing all of this with compassion – the type of compassion that includes finding ways to deliver high-quality care at the lowest possible cost, so it’s accessible to all.” “We’re still part of the same organizations – not-for-profit and rooted in the Catholic tradition from which our mission, vision and values were born,” she added. “However, as a result of changes to our parent organization’s governance structure, Dignity Health is not an official ministry of the Catholic Church. Over the next several months you may start to notice the signs around our hospitals changing to the new name and logo. Rest assured the name of our hospital will not change, and we remain a non-Catholic hospital.” Please visit dignityhealth.org for more information.

COLuMBIA Historic Saloon Gets New Owners Steve and Doreen Kwasnicki and daughter Megan Collier found themselves in Columbia and fell in love with the local businesses and people in the summer in 2011. They decided to relocate from Dublin to Columbia, and their family has become a cornerstone of the old town. They are enthusiastic about contributing to the community, giving their time to the Columbia Chamber of Commerce and at various town functions and events. The family is the new owners of the Jack Douglass Saloon and Pioneer Emporium, both located on Main Street. They invite you to drop in, hear music and rub elbows with the locals, be treated to food and refreshments with their theatrical staff and visit the Pioneer Emporium to find fancy foods, gifts and specialty ingredients.