Explore Sonora Summer 2010

EXPLORE

Sonora

Stay l Play l Dine l Shop l Explore

Explore Sonora and you’ll never forget the Experience!

EXPLORE

Music In The Park

reamcation.com

Summer 2010

Dreamcation

Di

All Hallows Fantasy Faire

Stage 3 ‘Pure Gold!

Yosemite

Yosemite National Park Celebrates 120 Years

Vintage

Then, Now & Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness Acorn Festival

Cover: ‘True Blue’ Blue World Photos

Discovering Yosemite National Park via CA SR Highway 120 www.sonorachamber.com

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The

Historic

The ideal Yosemite lodging featuring the acclaimed Cellar Door restaurant.

Hotel Choice in SonoraE X P L O R E

SONORA DAYS INN

B Sonora Days Inn Hotel & Room Amenities • Wireless High Speed Internet • Coffee Maker in Room • Complimentary Newspapers Toiletries Local Telephone Calls Outdoor Parking/Disabled • 24 Hour Front Desk • Golf, Tennis, Fitness nearby • Handicap Facilities • No Smoking Rooms and Facilities • Rooftop Pool • Television with Cable • Business Services • Voicemail/Data in all rooms • Ice/Vending Machines • Historic Elevator • Wake up Calls • Meeting/Banquet Space

Vintage

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n the Heart of Historic Sonora, California. Close to shops, restaurants, live theater and many popular area attractions for the entire family. ur Historic Hotel has traditional furnishings while the Annex has contemporary furnishings.

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n every guestroom you’ll find coffee & tea makers and HBO.

ll rooms in our Annex and the suites and efficiency rooms in the Historic Hotel have irons and ironing boards, inroom refrigerators and microwave ovens. For a small fee, pets are welcome in designated rooms.

Yosemite

160 S. Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370 Phone: 209-532-2400 Fax: 209-532-4542 www.bmshotels.com

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avor a lazy morning in the most luxurious featherbed you’ll never want to get out of, snuggle into one of our cozy bathrobes, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee on our veranda and permit a gracious staff member to indulge your every request.

Each of our unique Victorian-style rooms includes a private bath, free highspeed/wireless Internet access, telephone/voice mail, down comforters, European antiques, a coffee grinder and brewer, a CD player and an alarm clock.

Ask about our local Dining Discount Specials

Lodging Partner See the centerfold supplement on pages 9-12 in this issue for details.

Sonora Days Inn

Your Innkeepers: Grover, Peggy & Rusty

etween our front door and Yosemite’s gates, experience world-class river rafting on the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River, hike and bike hundreds of miles of trails in the Stanislaus National Forest, cast a line in a multitude of rivers and streams, sled with some silly friends, cross-country ski and snow-shoe. Bird watching and wildlife spotting is a local pastime. We boast great gray owl and black bear habitat and a whole lot of other wildlife.

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njoy incredible California-fresh cuisine, select from locally brewed beers and hundreds of wine labels and delight in a delectable dessert while reliving your Yosemite adventure. Our menu includes crisp salads, fresh fish, pasta, melt-in-your-mouth steaks and daily specials, all created with fresh seasonal ingredients.

If you are simply in a rush to get to The Park, we invite you to grab an espresso or refreshing drink on your way through town.

18767 Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 www.groveland.com

www.exploresonora.com

Our Community Partner EXPLORE

Sonora

MAGAZINE

CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION Paul Bell ADVERTISING SALES Paul Bell EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Christine Tuohy Paul Bell Black Oak Casino All Hallows Fantasy Faire PHOTOGRAPHS Blue World Photos Still Memories Photography Black Oak Casino Paul Bell Laurie Carson COVER PHOTOGRAPH ‘True Blue’- Lembert Dome is a granite outcropping in Yosemite National Park. The dome soars 800 feet above Tuolumne Meadows and the Tuolumne River.

EXPLORE

Live Well. Be Well.

4-5 THE GOOD LIFE

Explore the areas finer and fun retailers and experience the joy of shopping in a small town.

6 COFFEE & CANDY UTOPIA

Whether it’s your need for a caffeine or chocolate fix, Sonora can satisfy your craving.

7-14 DREAMCATION SUPPLEMENT

Discover what you love to do in the small towns of Tuolumne County!

8, 13 EVENTS CALENDAR

Don’t forget to visit dreamcation.com to register to win the Dreamcation Sweepstakes.

9-12 VINTAGE YOSEMITE TOURS

Discover Yosemite this fall with Dreamcation Deal tour packages from Groveland and Sonora.

15 STAGE 3 ‘PURE GOLD’

Stage 3 Theatre Company laughs its way into summer with Sunshine Boys.

16 - 17 ALL HALLOWS FANTASY FAIRE

Mother Lode Fair is host to the magical and mystical world of All Hallows Eve. A Family Fun Event!

18 44th ANNUAL ACORN FESTIVAL

A Me-Wuk Celebration of Tradition and building a sense of community through sharing.

19 MUSIC IN THE PARK 2010

Relax on a late, summery afternoon at Sonora’s Courthouse Park. Bring a chair and a picnic dinner.

VINTAGE YOSEMITE This logo highlights our participating Partners. Visit these businesses for special discounts and tour opportunities.

THE HISTORIC SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community

Mailing Address P.O. Box 884, Sonora, CA 95370 Tel/Fax: 209-588-9625 WEBSITE: www.sonorachamber.com E-MAIL: hscc@um.att.com The Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization representing the community of Sonora. As the Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce, we concentrate our marketing efforts within the Greater Sonora area. The Chamber of Commerce is also dedicated to raising the awareness of the Sonora area through tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination.

EXPLORE SONORA is a joint publication of The Historic

Sonora Chamber of Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions. Every effort has been made to insure that all information contained herein is accurate at the time of publication, but neither entity assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions and changes.

PAUL BELL l MARKETING SOLUTIONS

PO Box 5572, Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.588.9205

759050850 www.paulbell.biz/info@paulbell.biz

RUSH FOR FUN 2009 Our 2009 Photo Contest winner was Sonora’s own, Laurie Carson. She is not pictured here. However this is one of her winning photos in response to the Photo Challenge #24: A vintage vehicle. Her 25 photos captured the lead early, leaving all others far behind in the final scoring.

At right, the Carsons captture a view of Yosemite, Challenge #31. Superb!

You can see all of her photos at: rushforfun.com. eS

www.sonorachamber.com

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EXPLORE

the good life

fashion, home & garden

Joan’s Boutique has been vot- ed soaps from France. ed ‘The Best Woman’s BouBella Vie in Sonora is the perfect détique/Clothing Store’ for four cor store for all your nesting needs! years in a row in the Union Democrat’s annual reader’s La Bella Vie poll. Visit Joan’s Boutique in 181 S. Washington St. person or online at: www.

Sonora, CA 95370-4714 joansboutique.com.

(209) 536-0707 Joan’s Boutique 52 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1550 lowers. Who doesn’t like them? www.joansboutique.com It’s like having a smile delivered to someone’s doorstep. Next to the Joan’s Mother’s Day Fashion Show at Banny’s Cafe at Mt. Springs unconditional love of a pet, the next purist, sweetest thing on this planet is a lovely bouquet of flowers.Versatile enough to wish someone a happy birthday, inspire misty eyes on Mother’s Day, make somexploring Downtown xperience a bit of the Beautiful Life one sick feel better, or bring a young lady Sonora will likely reright here in downtown Sonora! to tears with a flower laden marriage veal a pleasant surBella Vie, at 181 S. Washington proposal, few things have the power to prise that you might not be Street, is an eclectic home and design inspire such beautiful emotions. Mounexpecting to find in such a center featuring furniture, bedding, bath, tain Laurel is our flower shop. small town. Joan’s Boutique at 52 S. Wash- and gift items. ington St. is owned and personally attended In a building with quite a floral history, La Bella Vie to by Joan Richardson who’s been a retail Mountain Laurel continues the tradition merchant for more than two decades. of delivering bundles of sunshine to the loved ones in our lives. They also offer Twice a year there is a flurry of activity, dried arrangements, centerpieces, garden not only in the store, but as the gatherdécor, potted plants, bird themed items, ing storm surrounds designer Joseph Ribmosaic pieces, and French milled soaps. koff’s semi-annual ‘Trunk Show’ at Joan’s Visit Mountain Laurel today for a bit of Boutique. Ribkoff representative Benja‘flower therapy’.You’ll be glad you did! min Zoldan and his assistants deliver this new and now hugely popular semi-an35 South Washington Street nual event to Sonora. Women respond Sonora, CA 95370-4717 with anticipation, delight and satisfaction (209) 532-9533 at these shows.To have this internationalwww.mountainlaurelca.com ly renowned designer present his fall and spring lines to this community is a rare and unusual treat.

Mountain Laurel Florist

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Joan’s Boutique

La Bella Vie

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Joan’s store has been a fixture of the community for years and it’s difficult to find women of any age who don’t shop there for that very special discovery, whether it’s clothing and accessories or just her pleasant company during any hour of her very long retail day and week, which never seems to deter her from her positive, friendly and out-going demeanor.

What is quickly revealed is Joan’s and her pleasant staff’s readiness to please every customer and their attendant spouse or significant other. Everyone is made to feel comfortable. Which is exactly what small towns are all about.

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Walking into Bella Vie feels like you’re stepping into a fragrant, shabby chic bit of the Left Bank of Paris, and it’s quite easy to lose track of time whilst shopping. Everything your heart desires is here!

You can set an entire table with the toile linens, dishes, glassware and rustic tapers in your newly garden themed dining room, fit your baby with essential and super cute clothing and furniture, then call it a night in your new nightgown after a bath with beautifully scentwww.exploresonora.com

EXPLORE

Insuring our community since 1987 Business • Home • Auto Life • Health • Bonds (209) 533-0234

Let ‘er Buck!

frosting, it’s time to revamp your kitchen at Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store!

Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store

Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store 98 S. Washington St. (209) 588-1400

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an I get a “Yeee Hawww”? There’s a new clothing store in town, partner! Let ‘er Buck just rode into town, offering up a fine selection of Western wear to please the cowboy or cowgirl in you. From hats and boots for everyday wear, to glitter and glitz rodeo style, Let ‘er Buck has just what you need.

Scarlet’s Web

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et caught in Scarlet’s Web this season and find yourself a treasure trove of goodies! There’s something for everyone at Scarlet’s, whether you’re looking for an antique doll, a hurricane lamp, cookie jar, a stained glass window, vintage china, a gumball machine, or a 1950’s prom dress, you’ll find it here.

Let ‘er Buck Western Wear

A kitchy, fun cross between an antique store, a consignment store, and the best estate sale on the block, Scarlet’s Web, located at 38 South Stewart Street (just around the corner from Mt. Laurel Florist) holds surprises galore to indulge the hunter in all of us. Don’t be surprised if you hear yourself saying, “My Mom had a wicker chair like that!” or “Wow, isn’t that e’ve all had those moments the grooviest lamp you’ve ever seen?” when we’re cooking and, reading over the recipe, we realize Oohs and ahhs and wows abound at the that we don’t have… a citrus zester. Or newest shop in town - Scarlet’s Web! an egg separator, a ladle, parchment paper… You get my point. Scowling at our Scarlet’s Web Don’t forget the little Buckaroos! Billy flat meringue, scalded soup, and burnt 38 S. Stewart St. can ride off into the sunset on his new cookies, we realize a kitchen upgrade is (209) 588-8300 plush rocking horse, while Sally can start desperately needed. her own mini ranch with a classic Breyer horse. Need a leather purse or a sadWell never fear, it’s Sonora’s Favorite dlebag holster for your cell phone? This Kitchen Store to the rescue! If you’re is the place! Belts to bolo ties, jeans to just plain tired of your hand-me-down jingle spurs, get a taste of the Old West measuring cups, or you’re making crème in Sonora at Let ‘er Buck! brulee and need ramekins and a torch, this is the place to go. Shelves and shelves Let ‘er Buck! of “why didn’t I think of that?” items Let ‘er Buck Western Wear are waiting for your curious eyes. So if 36 S. Washington St. you’re tired of snipping the corner of a Sonora, CA 95370 Scarlet’s Web baggie to make scruffy looking cupcake (209) 533-1144

Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store

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68 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 209.533.3113 www.sonorachamber.com

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EXPLORE

Coffee & Candy Utopia discoveries Sonora Joe’s

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ava. Cappucino.

Cuppa.

Bean juice. Mud. Joe. We know it, we love it, we need it. Sonora Joe’s to the rescue!

Yes, we now have a coffee house in downtown Sonora!

Settle down into a comfy chair, bring your laptop for some wi-fi, or groove to the acoustic open mike music offered on various Thursday evenings. And get your mud the way you like it: from a basic cup o’ joe to your skinny non fat, decaf, sugar free vanilla latte or your ‘keep you up all night / stand a spoon up in it’ quad shot raspberry mocha.

The

Candy Vault

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andy stores have the ability to make anyone of any age feel like a kid again, and the Candy Vault has come to rescue us from the threat of ever getting ‘old’.

And it’s not just candy they’re selling, it’s a store full of memories including jacks, jump ropes, Etch-a-Sketch, Slinky, Pez dispensers, and metal lunch boxes.

Who wouldn’t lose atleast 20 years walking in here? And for the true chocolate connoisseurs, they offer several selections of gourmet chocolates and truffles from Scharffen Berger, Lindt, and Vosges to tempt your tastebuds.

• APPAREL • SHOES • ACCESSORIES • MANICURES • PEDICURES • FACIALS • WAXING

OPEN 7 DAYS 108 South Washington Street Downtown Sonora 209.588.8899 6

Located in the historic National Bank Building on the corner of Washington and Bradford, the Candy Vault harkens back to the days of Norman Rockwell as You can hide in the corner with a book, a family run business with both the paror sit in the window and people watch all ents and kids involved. It’s hard to miss as you drive down Washington, with it’s whilst sipping your daily energy boost. giant lollipops beckoning you inside.

For the perfect way to start your day, Come down and visit the Candy Vault, head to Sonora Joe’s for an eye opening but please refrain from leaving nose experience! prints on the windows. We realize it’s Sonora Joe’s hard not to!

Coffee Shoppe The Candy Vault 140 S Washington St 42 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-4455 (209) 532-2388 .thecandyvaultsonora.com www.exploresonora.com

DREAMCATION Visitors Guide EXPLORE

Visit dreamcation.com

Gold Country & Yosemite Discover

Tuolumne County Visitors Guide To Discovering The Things You Love To Do! www.sonorachamber.com Columbia, Groveland, Jamestown, Sonora and Twain Harte

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Discover

Columbia, Groveland, E X P L O R EJamestown, Sonora and Twain Harte

Visit dreamcation.com

D R E A M C A T IVisitors O N Guide Calendar of Tuolumne County Events COLUMBIA

State Historic Park

October 9 - 10 Harvest Festifall (209) 536-1672 October 30 Pumpkin Lighting (209) 588-9128

J A M E S T OW N

July 3 - 5:

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

G R OV E L A N D

June 5 - Jul 3 Big Creek Meadow Guest Ranch The Wild Adventures of John Muir (209) 962-1942 July 23 Yosemite Courtyard Theatre Magic Moments - Sock Hop 209-962-4000 August 13 The Swing Dolls

Columbia State Historic Park

July 4 Glorious Fourth Celebration (209) 536-1672 July 16 - August 29 Sierra Repertory Theatre Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (209) 532-0502 x112 July 17 Big Band Street Dance (209) 533-3184 or 588-9128 August 7 Battle of Sawmill Flat (209) 588-9128 September 11 Admission Day (209) 588-9128 September 17 - Octber 17 Sierra Repertory Theatre Red, White and Tuna (209) 532-0502 x112 September 18 Back to School 1861 (209) 588-9128 September 19 38th Annual Fine Art Show (209) 536-9047 September 25 28th Annual Poison Oak Show (209) 533-4656 October 2 Fiddle & Bango Contest (209) 536-1672 8

Railtown 1897 4th of July Weekend Return of Sierra #3 Engine (209)984-3953 July 24 Railtown 1897 Mark Twain Rides the Rails!

(209) 984-3953 August 7 - 8 Railtown 1897 Sierra #3 Weekend!

(209)984-3953 August 7 - 8 Railtown 1897 Singing Rails Railroad Music Event!

(209)984-3953 September 4 - 6 Railtown 1897 Labor Day /Sierra #3 Weekend (209) 984-3953 October 2 - 3 Railtown 1897 Sierra #3 Weekend!

(209)984-3953 October 9 - 31 Railtown 1897 Harvest Haunt Express (209) 984-3953

Yosemite Courtyard Theatre Swing Dolls: Andrews Sisters & McGuire Sisters Tribute (209) 962-4000 September 12 Yosemite Courtyard Theatre Legends Tribute to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett & Nat King Cole. An Evening with Steve Swan (209) 962-4000 September 18 ‘49er Festival & Chili Cook-Off (209) 962-0429

October 9 Oktober Fest 2010 (209) 962-1942

SONORA

June 25 - Aug 13 Sierra Repertory Theatre Wine Down Fridays (209) 532-3120

The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau

June 25 - August 15 Sierra Repertory Theatre The Marvelous Wonderettes (209) 532-0502 x112 July 2 - August 1 Stage 3 Theatre Company The Sunshine Boys (209) 536-1778 July 9 - 11 Mother Lode Fair (209) 532-7428 August 13 Magic Of The Night Summertime Celebration (209) 532-7725 August 14

15th Annual Sonora Blues Festival (209) 533-3473 September 3 - 26 Sierra Repertory Theatre Master Class (209) 532-0502 x112 September 10 - October 10 Stage 3 Theatre Company The Diary of Anne Frank (209) 536-1778 September 18 - 19 21st Annual Quilts and Threads Show (209) 536-9112 September 25 Sierra Apple Festival (209) 201-6436 October 3 - 24 Sonora Bach Festival (209) 586-5965 October 22 - 24 Mother Lode Art Association 58th Annual Juried Art Show (209)532-2399 October 23 - 24 All Hallows Fantasy Faire (209) 533-4420

October 22 - December 18 Sierra Repertory Theatre Irving Berlin’s White Christmas (209) 532-0502 x112

T WA I N H A R T E

July 3 Concerts in the Pines Brad Wilson (209) 586-4482 July 17 Concerts in the Pines Departure (209) 586-4482 July 24 Concerts in the Pines Homegrown (209) 586-4482 July 24 - 25 Summer Arts & Wine Festival (209) 586-4482 July 31 Concerts in the Pines Blues Box Bayou Band (209) 586-4482 August 7 Concerts in the Pines Rock Haven (209) 586-4482 August 14 Concerts In the Pines A C Myles (209) 586-4482 August 21 Concerts In the Pines Silvermoon Allstars (209) 586-4482 August 28 Concerts In the Pines Chains Required (209) 586-4482 September 4 Concerts in the Pines Ricky & the Rockets (209) 586-4482 October 2 - 3 6th Annual OktoberFest (209) 586-4482

Tuolumne County Visitors Guidewww.exploresonora.com To Discovering The Things You Love To Do!

120 Yea

D reamcation.com

Yosemite

EXPLORE

Vintage

Yosemite National Park 1890-2010: Then, Now and Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness

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osemite National Park Celebrates its 120th Birthday this coming fall with a unique companion in California’s history: California’s State Route 120,Tuolumne County’s Scenic Gateway to the northern entrance to Yosemite National Park. From the San Francisco Bay Area and Central California, Highway 120 is also the fastest route to Yosemite and one of Tuolumne County’s best kept secrets!

In recognition of Yosemite National Park’s importance in California’s history, its preservation as a national park and its value as an international tourist destination, Vintage Yosemite 120/120 will be a year-long international celebration of Yosemite and its discovery via Tuolumne County’s historic route SR 120.

These tours will focus on Yosemite’s history as a tourist destination in popular culture as captured by professional and amateur photographers for the past 120 years.

Visit www.vintageyosemite.com for all details or call 209.588.9625 for information & reservations.

‘True Blue’ - Yosemite today. Photo Credit: Blue World Photos, Sonora, California

HISTORY

Yosemite & Highway 120

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aturalist John Muir & Robert Underwood Johnson,editor of Century Magazine, lobbied the US Congress for the Act that created Yosemite National Park on October 1, 1890.

During the Gold Rush, SR 120 was originally known as Big Oak Flat Road, after the village of Big Oak Flat through which it passes in the Sierra foothills.

It was a pack trail from Stockton which became popular with prospectors about 1849. By 1874 it was a wagon road, which extended to the Yosemite Valley.

ACCOMMODATIONS Lodging for your Discovery

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ur Partner Hotels offer a wide variety of choices for your visit to Yosemite National Park during the 120th Birthday Anniversary Celebration from September 2010 through December 2011.

You’ll have the opportunity to stay in Sonora or Groveland. Each community offers unique dining, shopping, recreation, cultural and historic discoveries.

Vintage Yosemite Lodging Partners BestWestern Sonora Oaks The Gunn House Hotel The Sonora Days Inn Inns of California, Sonora The Groveland Hotel

TOURS

Yosemite via Highway 120

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iscover Tuolumne County before and after your excursion to Yosemite National Park. These tours are scheduled from Sonora and Groveland and will last 8 to 10 hours depending on your tour choices.

Rates are per person and include 1 or more nights accommodations, and round trip via Linkline, our transportation partner, in a comfortable 8,16 or 24 seat passenger mini-bus into the park including entrance fee.

Each package includes a signed complimentary copy of Christine Tuohy’s soft-cover book, Vintage Yosemite: Then, Now & Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness.

2010 Stay & Discover Yosemite 120/120 Tour Packages Vintage Yosemite 120/120 is presented by: Blue World Photos of Sonora; Explore Sonora Magazine; The Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce www.sonorachamber.com with support from the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau.

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120 Yea

Vintage

The

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Spirit of Adventure

hose born to the new and expanding world of the mid-nineteenth and early twentieth century were instilled with a pioneering spirit of exploration and discovery in every walk, picnic, outing, or camping and packing trip as an adventure. There was always an element of daring to these explorations.And if you fell off a cliff, it was your own fault for getting too close to the edge. erhaps it was just plain foolhardiness, but there were few fences, gates, warning signs or threats of potential lawsuits or prosecutions to prevent us from seeing every angle of our beautiful world and capturing that experience with that newest innovation of the modern era, the camera.. t had only been a generation or two since the settling of the West and charting of its Wilderness. With the advent of railroads, steamships and the touring car, these modern modes of transportation only fueled the thirst for more adventure and further into the newly discovered wilderness. hrough the individual and collective experience of places like Yosemite Valley, these 19th and 20th century explorers developed a deep appreciation and affection for Wilderness and its preservation. intage Yosemite invites you to discover its unique history and experience why Yosemite after its 120th year as a National Park remains California’s Heritage Wilderness.

Yosemite

EXPLORE

Breakfast 7:30 A.M.

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tart your day with either a light or hearty breakfast.The Groveland Hotel and Gunn House Hotel offer an Innkeeper’s Breakfast for their guests.

The Best Western Sonora Oaks offers a Fulll Breakfast to satisfy your morning appetite.

Depar t for Yosemite 9:00 A.M.

ut on your walking shoes or hikP ing boots for your Yosemite Adventure.You’ll de-

part with a cup of Joe courtesy of Sonora Joe’s Coffee Shoppe in Historic Downtown Sonora to brace you for the scenic drive to Yo-Semite!

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Times listed are approximate and may vary based on weather and traffic or the unexpected!

Arrival in Groveland 9:45

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ntering Groveland via California State Route 120 is Tuolumne County’s Scenic Gateway to the ‘Big Valley’.

As we enter Groveland you’ll note the Iron Door Saloon, the oldest continuously operated saloon in California. It began serving liquor in 1852 as the Granite Store.

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Visiting The Yo-Semite Valley

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e recommend these tours to children 12 years and older with the consideration some walking is involved as well as boarding and unboarding at a number of sightseeing highlights and stops.

The tours including travel time will average 8 - 10 hours or longer depending on unforeseen delays. By special arrangement we can arrange for a special Family Discovery Tour from Sonora, with accommodations, guide and dining options. We will

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Smith Station Road 1 0 : 1 5

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e’re officially inside the park at the intersection of Smith Station Road, which has recently (June 5, 2010) been designated as the John Muir Highway. Muir entered the Yosemite Valley via this route from Coulterville during his second trek in 1869. From this point on you’ll discover what he discovered and was determined to protect for generations to come.

accommodate families with a minimum of 6 passengers. Call 209.588.9625 for special arrangements and pricing.

The walk through Cook’s Meadow lasts a bit over an hour. There are options, including possible rainy days. Once we arrive on the valley floor, the Yosemite Visitor’s Center,Yosemite Museum, the Ansel Adams Gallery, the Nature Center at Happy Isles, even a visit via free shuttle to the famous Ahwahnee Hotel, are well worth a visit. In September and October the weather should be beautiful and comfortably in the mid to high 70’s or a little warmer or cooler.

L eg e n d Historical Interest Coffee Served

Restrooms Available Board Bus Bus Stop Picnic Area

Photo Op Seating Area Walking Activity

Crane Flat Bears 1 0 : 3 0

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f we’re lucky there’ll be an opportunity to see bears in the meadow off to the right or to the left in the forest edge.American black bears are not black but brown or even blond or reddish brown and you can distinguish their age by color. This is the Highway 120/Tioga Pass Road open only in summer. Nearby Crane Flat is the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias and is worth another summer visit for a 1 to 2 hour hike.

Bridal Veil Falls 1 1 : 0 0

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e stop briefly to formally enter the park, and we will provide guests a map of Yosemite for the tour. Shortly thereafter you’ll be inclined to gasp as we approach BridalVeil Falls. (continued 2 pages over)

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www.exploresonora.com www.vintageyosemite.com

BEST WESTERN SONORA OAKS EXPLORE

The AAA 3-Diamond Award Best Western Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center is a great Yosemite lodging choice while visiting and exploring the Mother Lode.

Hi-speed Internet access • Deluxe continental breakfast • Restaurant • Lounge • Room services Outdoor pool • Spa • 24-hour front desk • Concierge Services • Seasonal Specials and packages

www.bwsonoraoaks .com

Sonora Oaks Hotel and Conference Center19551 Hess Avenue, Sonora, California, 95370-9720

Discover Yosemite Special

The

120

th on

The

120

120

for $

.00

S o n o ra D ays Inn I n n s o f California

The

Yosemite Diamond Tour

I Love Yosemite Tour

AAA Three Diamond Lodging Partners

19th Century Victorian Outing

Best Western Sonora Oaks or The Groveland Hotel

Gunn Hous e Ho t e l or Sonora D a ys I nn The

or Dates Available Sunday thru Thursday September 20 thru October 31, 2010

Dates Available Sunday thru Thursday October 3 thru October 31, 2010

Dates Available Sunday thru Thursday September 20 thru October 31, 2010

Accommodations for 1 Night

Accommodations for 1 Night

Accommodations for 2 Nights

Transportation from Sonora or Groveland Yosemite Park Admission including souvenir Park Map

Transportation from Sonora Yosemite Park Admission including souvenir Park Map

Yosemite Photographer Jeff Nixon is your Tour Guide

Yosemite Photographer Jeff Nixon is your Tour Guide

Picnic Lunch with Refreshments & Dessert

Teddy Bear Picnic Lunch with Refreshments & Dessert

Standard Room (1 Queen) Continental Breakfast

Transportation from Sonora Yosemite Park Admission including souvenir Park Map Join Our Guided Tour or Discover Yosemite On Your Own

Standard Room (1 Queen) Best Western Sonora Oaks - Full Breakfast Groveland Hotel - Innkeeper’s Breakfast

Picnic Lunch with Refreshments & Dessert Complimentary Copy of the Book Vintage Yosemite: Then, Now & Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness

By Christine Tuohy, Blue World Photos

The

Standard Room (1 Queen) Gunn House Hotel -Innkeeper’s Breakfast Sonora Days Inn - Continental Breakfast

The

Complimentary Sasy Bears Teddy R. Plush Bear

After Tour Dinner & Photo Exhibition Alcohol, taxes and gratuity are additional

After Tour Dinner & Photo Exhibition Alcohol, taxes and gratuity are additional

Vintage Yosemite Exhibit & Reception at Blue World Photos Gallery including savories, sweets & refreshments

Complimentary Copy of the Book Vintage Yosemite: Then, Now & Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness

By Christine Tuohy, Blue World Photos

Discover Tuolumne County Coupon Book

Discover Tuolumne County Coupon Book

Complimentary Copy of the Book Vintage Yosemite: Then, Now & Forever California’s Heritage Wilderness

By Christine Tuohy, Blue World Photos Discover Tuolumne County Coupon Book

$120 .00 *

$120 .00 *

$120 .00 *

*$60.00 per person/Dbl. Occupancy

*$120.00 per person/Dbl. Occupancy

*$120.00 per person/Dbl. Occupancy

Add a second night for $49.00!

Reservation Code: DYS-120 Group Discounts: 209-588-9625

Book Extra Nights and save!

Reservation Code: 3D-120

Book Extra Nights and save!

Reservation Code: ILY-120 Group Discounts: 209-588-9625

Price excludes room upgrades, room charges and applicable taxes.

Price excludes room upgrades, room charges and applicable taxes.

Group Discounts: 209-588-9625

Price excludes room upgrades, room charges and applicable taxes.

Visit www.vintageyosemite.com for updated packages, information or to book tours online.

Spring 2011 tours dates are also available. Check www.vintageyosemite.com/2011 to reserve space.

Terms and Conditions

1) All Packages are purchased through the Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce in the form of a redeemable voucher for a specific date.

2) All Packages are limited in availability and will not be held or reserved without deposit or complete payment in advance.

3) All Packages are for Sunday thru Thursday only. Fridays or Saturday may be available at an additional charge.

4) Hotels for each tour may change due to special events, conventions or other reasons

beyond our control.

5) The Picnic Lunch provided will include some Vegetarian options. Other diets cannot be guaranteed but in most instances you can order appropriate items when you provide notice by 4 p.m. the day before the tour.

6) Packages inclusive of dinner may be limited in a choice of menu options.

7) Advertised packages are priced for Standard Rooms only, which in most cases includes one Queen Bed. Additional beds, sizes, room features may incur additional charges.

8) Packages, unless otherwise indicated,

Historic Sonora

are for 1 Night only, including the Yosemite Travel Voucher.

9) Package prices exclude all room charges and taxes which are paid at Check-out.

10) We encourage you to add additional nights at the specially discounted rates with each hotel, well in advance of the tour to guarantee availability.

Payment. Deposit of $100 per person is due within 30 days of making reservations, balance 30 days before travel. Full payment is due upon making reservations for tours booked less than 30 days in advance. For

Credit Card payments we request signed authorizations for the deposit and the final payment. Travel vouchers are mailed upon receipt of full payment. Extra charges apply for overnight delivery.

Cancellation Charges and Refunds: Complete details are available at www.vintageyosemite.com/terms.

Contractual Sale includes coordination, transportation by tour coach worth $50.00 per day, admission costs as stated, hotel rooms without tax, certain meals with tax. It

INNS OF CALIFORNIA

350 South Washington Street Sonora, Ca 95370 (209) 532-3633 (800) 251-1538 11

Free Continental Breakfast • Heated Pool & Spa • Air Conditioned • In-Room Brewed Coffee • Guest Laundry www.exploresonora.com 24-Hour Courteous FrontofDesk • Free High Wireless Internet www.sonorainnsofcalifornia.com We’re nestled in heart the historic goldSpeed country foothills, only•sixty miles from Yosemite National Park!

is our pledge to provide these services and our responsibility to make a refund only for the actual value of tour components we fail to deliver.

The Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce acts as agents for hotels, restaurants or other places of business and transportation; we cannot be held liable in any way for loss, injury, or damage to person or property in those places or areas. We may decline the sale of the tour or to retain any person as a member of the tour at any time.

The Historic

Gunn House Hotel EXPLORE

In the Heart of Historic Downtown Sonora

Built 1850

286 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Reservations (209) 532-3421 www.gunnhousehotel.com (BridalVeil Falls. continued) There is a picnic area adjacent to Bridal Veil just off the road and it’s an easy walk to the base. It’s just a half-mile and takes 20 minutes. Depending on our arrival time this is an alternate picnic site.

L owe r Yo s e m i t e Falls 12:00

P.M.

T

his is our scheduled Picnic Lunch and is provided by our dining partner The Lighthouse Deli. You’ll find refreshments, fruit, veggies, sandwiches and deserts, including a treat provided

by The Candy Vault.

There’ll be a drawing during lunch for some very special gifts from Sonora area merchants and restaurants!

Alternate stop: Get some vicarious thrills while we eat lunch at El Capitan Picnic Area to see a squadron of climbers ascending El Cap, the largest granite monolith in the world.

The

Ansel Adams Gallery 2:30

Photographer

P.M.

W

e will conclude our. post-lunch walk at the Ansel Adams Gallery in the heart of (if not the heart….) of Yosemite Village. You’re encouraged to explore Yosemite on your own for the next 2 hours.You can hop a shuttle down to the Ahwahnee for a drink to relax, do a little shopping in the village or take an extended walk or hike.

Inspiration Walk 2:45

P.M.

F

or those inclined, you may choose to go for a short drive with us to a meadow for a unique experience instead of going off on your own.

Historic SONORA

N

oted Yosemite photographer, Jeff Nixon, will lead several guided tours through the park, reminiscing about his years living and working in the Valley. n Jeff’s 40 plus years as a photographer. He also had the opportunity to work with renowned photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams and will share some of those experiences with tour guests.

Learn more about Jeff by visiting his website at www.jeffnixonphotography.com.

I

You’ll be awed and dumbfounded at the scale of things.

Most everything around you will be 3,500 feet higher. We’re not saying anything more than that.

The

Jeff Nixon

Hotel Choice in Sonora

DAYS INN

160 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Phone: 209-532-2400 • Fax: 209-532-4542 www.bmshotels.com

C o o k ’s M e a d ow Walk 1:00

P.M.

A

little over a mile and although on flat terrain and board walks, the altitude on the valley floor is 4000 feet and some may want to consider this.There are other ways to see the sights.

This will give you an opportunity for a meadow view of Yosemite from the valley floor. The vistas are breathtaking. Here you’ll get a sense of what it might have been like 150 years ago without the pine and redwood trees, which have volunteered into the meadow and Yosemite of today, coming down in the flush of spring storm surges.

You’ll get a better view of the falls, and the Yosemite Valley Chapel, the oldest surviving building built in 1879. There are staggering views from the Swinging Bridge and Sentinel Bridge.

Tunnel Overlook

Valley View

Goodbye Yo-Semite! 4

:30 P.M.

O

n our departure we will take you to, without exaggeration, the world’s most scenic view: in late afternoon the sun gilds the valley in golden light. You’ll be able to see everything in the valley, all the way to Half Dome. Smile: and take a picture.This might just be your holiday card for 2010…or forever.

Return to your Hotel 6:00 P.M - 6:30 P.M.

Our Partner

DAVE & MICHELE DECHENEY OWNERS/OPERATORS Telephone: 209-694-8747 Fax: 209-588-9718 www./linklinecharter.com • e-mail: linklinecharter@aol.com TCP# 0005467 US DOT #1102834

W

e hope you’ve enjoyed your experience and you’re not too tired to have a really great meal.

Some of you will join us for a banquet style dinner with a Vintage Yosemite and Today Photo exhibit in the company of photographers Christine Tuohy and/or Jeff Nixon, who for select groups, will guide our tours!

The Groveland Hotel is ideal Yosemite lodging with the acclaimed Cellar Door restaurant.

Indulge Yourself!

www.sonorachamber.com

18767 Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 • 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 • www.groveland.com

12

EXP L ODiscovering RE Tuolumne County Visitors Guide To The Things You Love To Do!

R E C R E AT ION AREAS Dreamcation! dreamcation.com

Why wait for a vacation when you can have a Dreamcation!

Tuolumne County is DISCOVER COUNTRY!

D ��������������Dreamcation�

Magic Moments Sock Hop! July 23, 8:00 pm

Music of the 50s & 60s

$19.00 Dance the night away!

The Swing Dolls August 13, 8:00 pm

A tribute to Andrews Sisters & The McGuire Sisters

The

$24.00 These girls are dynamite!

Tribute to the Legends September 12, 8:00 pm

Frank Sinatra Tony Bennett Nat King Cole An Evening with Steve Swan

$19.00

For tickets call

209-962-4000 or toll free 1-800-273-3314 E-mail: guestservices@groveland.com The ideal Yosemite lodging featuring the acclaimed Cellar Door restaurant.

Yosemite Courtyard Theatre 18767 Main St., Groveland, CA 95321 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 www.groveland.com All Events Subject to Change Without Notice

July 3 Don Pedro Fireworks Spectacular - 209-852-2396 July 4 New Melones Lake Ancient River of Molten Lava (209) 536-9543 July 10 New Melones Lake Gold Rush Reminiscing (209) 536-9543 July 17 New Melones Lake We Are Still Here Me-Wuk Dancers (209) 536-9543 July 30 - August 15 Bear Valley Music Festival 42nd Annual (209) 753-2574 July 31 New Melones Lake Mosquito-Munching Tiny Dragons on the Wing Campground Program (209) 536-9543 August 1 New Melones Lake Mosquito-Munching Tiny Dragons on the Wing Guided Hike (209) 536-9543 August 7 Farms of Tuolumne Co. Farm and Ranch Tour (209) 928-3775 August 7 New Melones Lake Special Guest Speaker From the Past (209) 536-9543

Visit dreamcation.com for details

August 14 New Melones Lake Dangerous Creatures (209) 536-9543 August 14 Long Barn Car Show/Craft Fair (209) 586-3533 August 14 Long Barn 4th Annual Show‘N‘Shine Car Show and Craft Faire (209) 586-3533 August 21 New Melones Lake Moon Over New Melones (209) 536-9543 August 28 New Melones Lake Flying Rainbows (209) 536-9543 September 11 - 12

Me-Wuk Indian Acorn Festival Tuolumne Rancheria (209) 928-3475 September 4 New Melones Lake Calaveras Community Band

(209) 536-9543 September 5 New Melones Lake Program If Rock Could Talk (209) 536-9543

he Candy Vault, located in the heart of Sonora (in the historic National Bank Building), is an old-fashioned candy store offering a wide range of confections, licorice, chocolates and even ice cream. e carry hard to find nostalgic sweets from long-established candy makers as well as the latest delights from new and specialty confectioners.

Open 7 Days A Week Weekdays 10 am - 7 pm l Weekends 10 am - 9 pm

• Fine Chocolates • Organic Chocolates • Bulk Candy • Novelty Toys & Gifts Old-Fashioned Bottled Soda

209.532.2388 42 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 www.thecandyvaultsonora.com

‘Have A Sweet Day!’

Visit dreamcation.com

D R E A M C A T I OVisitors N Guide www.sonorachamber.com

13

The

2nd Annual

October 23

&

All Hallows Fantasy Faire

24, 2010

EXPLORE

at

Mother Lode Fairgrounds in

Historic

Sonora

Advance Tickets

$12/$5 for kids!

Coyote Run • Brother • Avalon Rising • Daredevil Chicken Comedy Troupe • Sierra Spiral Dancers • Black Irish Band • Dark Boar Vikings • Pumpkin Games look for

‘Heads in Beds’

Specials for the

MUSIC Shopping l Dining l Wine Tasting l Art Galleries l Theatre

IN THE

PARK

20 10

Weekend • www.allhallowsfaire.com • 209-533-4420

The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau l tcvb.com

all F s i Th g m n i C o m wncheer.co o smallt

Fridays 6 pm to 8 pm Courthouse Park Downtown Sonora July 2 Starlight Serenaders

Great Live Theatre

in Historic Downtown Sonora

Just steps from Shopping • Dining • Lodging

VINTAGE JAZZ

July 9 Hills Brothers Band

Our 2010 Season

CLASSIC ROCK, SOUL, AND BLUES

The

July 16 James Faifua & the Jukes

by Neil Simon

BLUES

July 23 Crazy Ivan

ROCK N SOUL PARTY BAND

July 30 Chains Required R&B, ROCK,BLUES

August 6 Black Irish Band IRISH, ITALIAN, AMERICAN FOLK

August 13 Magic of the Night August 20 Coyote Hill CLASSIC ROCK, SOUL, BLUES

August 27 Blues Box Bayou ZYDECO

Give your family a special gift this Holiday Season. Discover all the joys of Christmas in the Small Towns of Tuolumne County.

There’s always enough Small Town Cheer for everyone and it won’t cost you your sanity or put a dent in your wallet. There’s no mall madness, plenty of parking and believe it or not, small towns full of friendly people waiting for you.

Visit Columbia, Groveland, Jamestown, Sonora, or Twain Harte and Discover Christmas all over again. The cookies, hot chocolate and smiles are on us.

Christmas begins at www.smalltowncheer.com October 31st, 2010

THE

HISTORIC SONORA CHAMBER

OF

COMMERCE

Commerce,Culture & Community exploresonora.com 14 ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE EVENTS

Sunshine Boys

www.exploresonora.com

July 2 - August 1 The

Diary of Anne Frank

by Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett newly adapted by Wendy Kesselman

September 10 - October 10 The

Fantastics

Book & Lyrics by Tom Jones Music by Harvey Schmidt

November 12 - December 19 Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S. Green St., Sonora, CA 209-536-1778 www.stage3.org

EXPLORE

stage 3 theatre ‘pure gold’ Hilah Elkin and Dennis Brown from well-received Driving Miss Daisy.

theatre

Stage 3’s production of ‘Sherlock Holmes:The Final Advencan barely stand to be in the same room with each other. The situation goes from bad to worse to total comic disaster and beyond.

September 10 – October 10 The Diary of Anne Frank Anne Frank emerges from history a living, lyrical, intensely gifted young girl, who confronts her rapidly changing life and the increasing horror of her time with astonishing honesty, wit, and determination. A new adaptation for a new generation.

November 12 – December 19 The Fantasticks This wistful and beautiful story of young love lost and won has captivated audiences around the globe. A timeless fable of love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same onveniently located in picturesque time. downtown Sonora, Stage 3 is steps Stage 3 is located at 208 S. Green St. from dining and lodging.

Sonora, Ca. Call 209-536-1778 or visit Make plans to arrive early. Before each www.stage3.org show the audience is treated to a concert featuring anything from celtic harp Neil Simon’s ‘Barefoot in the Park’ to blues to Americana to Dixieland jazz in the theater’s huge, funky/chic lobby.

C

But the pleasant ambience is just the prologue.

Under the artistic direction of Don Bilotti, Stage 3 has become known as a powerhouse theater, with a year-round season and an ever-growing audience.

July 2 – August 1 “The Sunshine Boys”.

Neil Simon at his wisecracking best .The hottest team in comedy are lured out of retirement to recreate their magic one more time on live TV. One problem, they

www.sonorachamber.com

15

EXPLORE

all hallows fantasy faire New Products

Liquid Shade Sun Block Quit Bugging Me Insect Repellent

Heritage Travel Where your vacation begins!

Professional Courteous Service Since 1984

Karin Brown

440 Hope Lane Sonora, CA 95370-5878 Phone: (209) 533-4322 Fax: (209) 533-3512 karin@heritagetrvl.com

S

onora will host the magical and mystical world of All Hallows, where reality meets the fantasy world of old! This celebrated event is based on the ancient beliefs of the Celtic Tribes of Ireland and the more modern recreation known as Halloween. A fantasy world will be recreated with different fantasy themed areas that invite the public to take part in the fun. Over 100 fantasy characters will be on parade interacting with visitors throughout the All Hallows Village and Forbidden Forest.

magicians, and fire-eaters to keep everyone entertained.

As guests enter into the fantasy realm they will have to cross the troll bridge and answer a riddle to pass. Once inside the magic begins, with eerie beasts and mad wizards walking about. In the center of the All Hallows Village there will be a large music stage, featuring the sounds of the Australian mega group, Brother. They will share the stage with bands that specialize in Celtic and fantasy music, they include: Coyote Run, Avalon Rising, and the Black Irish Band.

If you venture into the outlying For-

All types of weird dancing groups will also be performing on various stages and encampments in this area. Many of the village pathways will be filled with giants, jugglers, 16

www.exploresonora.com

Once into the heart of the fantasy village, all types of artisans and craftsman will sell their wares.There will also be a food area selling many strange and exotic items. It is here also that a large fantasy tavern will offer many forms of grog and whiskies. If guests dare to leave the tavern and enter the Forbidden Forest, it’s possible that they will never return, and if they do, they will have great stories to tell their friends!

Enjoy magicians, live music, street performers, dancing and food. 209-532-7725 • www.sonoraca.com EXPLORE

MAG C

Featuring

OF THE

N GHT

August 13th InAHistoric Downtown Sonora G F -F E 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

REAT

AMILY

UN

VENT

FREE!FREE

The Blues Box Bayou Band • The Hills Brothers Band • Chains Required • Swing Guitane Mountain Mischief • Sierra Spiral Dancers • Professor Zounds • Raks Arabika

bidden Forest, you will find out that strange creatures inhabit it. Some of the life forms are human, but many are from the underworld of the fairies.

Deep in the heart of the forest is the ancient cemetery, many who are buried there died of the plague of olden times. Some say that many still walk the earth as zombies. Once past the cemetery the world of the fairy comes to life. If you enter the fairy area, you must know that Viking Warriors and the Knights of old Avalon guard it. Children are however always allowed to pass into the world of fairies. Children of all ages will find many activities and games here

that include pumpkin carving, tossing, and the making of the pumpkin king! Roaming in this area will be hobbits, unicorns, storytellers, face painters, and magicians.

The All Hallows Fantasy Faire is designed for all ages. Participants are encouraged to dress in costumes from ancient fairy creatures to modern Halloween characters.

Allow at least three hours to visit the entire fantasy realm.

The All Hallows Fantasy Faire, where old world beliefs meet present Halloween fun!

www.sonorachamber.com

All Hallows Fantasy Faire

October 23 & 24, 2010 Mother Lode Fairgrounds Advance Tickets $12/$5 for kids! www.allhallowsfaire.com (209) 533-4420

17

Good friends, pleasant surroundings and people who care

“

EXPLORE

about you” - these are words residents use to describe their Skyline Place home.

W

ells Fargo & Co. was borne out of the California Gold Rush, an event that launched the greatest migration in American history. Virtually overnight the sleepy seaport of San Francisco, located on sand dunes overlooking the Golden Gate, exploded from a non-native population of 800 in 1848 to more than 30,000 in 1851.

As news of the gold discovery spread around the world, farmers left their crops, merchants shuttered their doors, and immigrants abandoned their homelands to journey thousands of miles to gold fields in the Sierra foothills. Risking disease, danger and starvation, they came by clipper ship and steamer, by wagontrain and on foot to seek their fortune in the gold fields.

The pride of countless mining towns, the Wells Fargo agency was viewed as a link to the civilized world.

Wells Fargo Bank has been serving the Greater Sonora Community for over 150 years.

Wells Fargo & Co

808 E. Mono Way, CA 95370 (209) 532-3106 Pictured: the historic Wells Fargo office is located in Columbia Historic State Park, just a few miles north of Sonora

Phoenix Lake Golf Course

A challenging, 9-hole, Par 35 course in Sonora, California with a gorgeous setting of tree-lined fairways. Call the golf shop at 209-532-0111 for your tee time today. www.phoenixlakegolf.com

(209) 532-0111 21448 Paseo de Los Portales Road • Sonora, CA 95370 18

12877 Sylva Lane Sonora, California 95370 Phone 209-588-0373 fax 209-588-0736

Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians

44th Annual Acorn Festival A Celebration of Tradition!

Building a Sense of Community Through Sharing

M

e-Wuk territory spans much of the Central Sierra Nevada in California. The Northern Me-Wuk homelands surround much of the Central Sierra region, including present day Amador and Calaveras counties.

The Sierra Nevada counties of southern Calaveras and Tuolumne comprise the Central Me-Wuk homeland, while the Southern Me-Wuk homeland is bordered by Mariposa county and Yosemite National Park. The Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians, who own and operate Black Oak Casino, are direct descendants of all three regional tribes.

The ceremonial roundhouse or “hangi” was usually 30 to 40 feet in diameter and round in shape. The roundhouse could be covered by earth, bark, or shingles like the one is today at the Tuolumne Rancheria. The hangi should be respected as would any place of worship. Dances are held in the roundhouse as a way of giving thanks and respect for all that the Earth Mother gave to the people.

One of the main ceremonial dances that was and is still celebrated today is in respect to the Black Oak Acorn, which was one of the staple foods in the Me-Wuk diet.

Many acorn pounding rocks can be seen throughout the region indicating historic MeWuk villages. The Black Oak Acorn was the inspiration for naming the tribe’s casino “Black Oak”.

The Me-Wuk resided in cedar bark homes called umachas. These homes were made from pine poles, grape vines, and cedar bark. They were conical in shape, similar

www.exploresonora.com

to teepees of the Plains Indians, but made of much different materials.

The Tuolumne Rancheria was established in 1910. It was originally set up as a reservation for homeless natives.The Tuolumne Rancheria became the home of many Me-Wuk from different neighboring villages. Through programs with Elders and speakers of the language, Me-Wuk traditions and native languages are being taught to the young ones today.

Gambling is not foreign to the Me-Wuk. They have played games of chance for most of their history. One of the more popular games is the “Hand Game”, played while singing gambling songs.

Teams compete in guessing the “bones”. Games can last for minutes or for days. An annual Hand Games Tournament is held every September as part of the Tuolumne Rancheria “Acorn Festival”.

44th Annual Acorn Festival Saturday & Sunday September 11th & 12th, 2010 Tuolumne Rancheria Tuolumne City (209) 928-3475 www.mewuk.com

EXPLORE

music in the park

culture

Voted “Coolest Shop in Sonora”!

- (by my Mom)

Free Concerts Fridays 6 pm to 8 pm in August 20 Courthouse Park, downtown Sonora.

COYOTE HILL July 2 STARLIGHT SERENADERS No information available at press time.

July 9 HILLS BROTHERS BAND With influences from Clapton to Pink Floyd, the sound is uniquely their ownClassic Rock and Blues with an edge, a perfect blend of vocals and guitars underscored by drums and saxophone.

July 16 JAMES FAIFUA & THE JUKES This five piece band is dedicated to playing progressive urban blues infused with jazz and funk. Their repertoire includes tunes by such greats as Little Walter Jacobs, Muddy Waters, and also includes original compositions.

July 23 CRAZY IVAN Tuolumne County’s Premier Rock n Soul Party Band! Enough said...

July 30 CHAINS REQUIRED A Tuolumne County favorite, Chains Required is a nine piece musical force to be reckoned with, playing a mix of Rock, Blues, and R&B.

Coyote Hill is known for American Roots music, with a mix of folk, bluegrass, blues, country, swing, and jazz.

How could you go wrong!

August 27 BLUES BOX BAYOU The Blues Box Bayou Band is no garden variety band.Their music is mix of Cajun, Zydeco, Blues and American Roots and the group has shown tremendous growth over the years.

Music in the Park 2010 is presented by the Historic Sonora Chamber of Commerce.

All events subject to change without notice.

“The World’s Greatest Bank”

Two blocks south of the Red Church you’ll find a shop like no other! Located in the historic 1858 Yosemite House, Blue World Photos is not your typical ‘gallery’. .Where else in town can you find: •The Amazing Cat Mummy •An wonderful antique camera collection • A 1952 Wurlitzer Jukebox • Homemade bath products • Gorgeous photos the likes of which you’ve never seen!

Come in and say ‘hi!’

Your eyes will never be the same….

Featured on National Geographic’s website.

August 6 BLACK IRISH BAND

TUOLUMNE COUNTY LOCATIONS

Hailing from the Gold Rush country, the Black Irish Band has a style that is as timeless as the rugged landscape of the West. Irish, Italian, American folk.

229 S. Washington St., Sonora (209) 588-8800 13775 Mono Way, Sonora (209) 532-0986 18711 Tiffeni Dr. Twain Harte (209) 586-0331 18281 Main St., Jamestown (209) 984-3971 22712 Main St., Columbia (209) 536-5900

18202 Main Street • Jamestown • CA • 95327 • Phone • 209.984.0584 • stogiesatcoppercreek.com

19 www.sonorachamber.com Premium Cigars & Tobacco Accessories for Men & Women

EXPLORE

INNS OF CALIFORNIA Historic Gold Country

Discover comfort, location and “hotel service that takes your breath away” —HeritageHotelgroup.com

I

nns of California-Sonora is nestled in the heart of the historic gold country foothills, is only sixty miles from Yosemite National Park and minutes from Railtown 1897 State Historic Park and Columbia State Park.

Tour the California gold rush towns of Sonora, Jamestown, and Columbia. In the heart of the Sierra, enjoy skiing, fishing, river rafting, golfing, antique shopping, caves, and steam trains.

Located in Downtown Sonora you will be within easy walking distance to many local restaurants and unique shops.

Whatever your interest, you will love coming back to your clean room at Inns of California Sonora.

Year-Round Heated Pool and Spa

Services & Accommodations Cable TV Coffee/tea maker Hair dryer Clock Radio Iron/ironing board Complimentary: Continental breakfast Hi-speed wireless internet Local calls On-site parking

20

Friendly 24 hour front desk Downtown location Business center Guest laundry Ask about our Spa Suites!

Deluxe rooms include: Microwave Refrigerator DVD player

350 South Washington Street Sonora, Ca 95370 (209) 532-3633 (800) 251-1538 www.sonorainnsofcalifornia.com

Yosemite • Romance • Theatre • Snowplay • Gas Cards And More... www.exploresonora.com