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Stay l Play l Dine l Shop l Explore See what’s waiting for you this Summer!
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Elvis is back
Groveland Hotel
Sonora EXPLORE EXPLORE
Summer 2013
Sierra Rep Ride in Comfort to YNP
SPECIAL SECTION
DISCOVER The High Country
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TWAIN HARTE • SUGAR PINE MI-WUK VILLAGE • SIERRA VILLAGE STRAWBERRY • DODGE RIDGE PINECREST • KENNEDY MEADOWS
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God’s Bath
MAG C
OF THE
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Downtown Sonora August 9th In AHistoric G F -F E
6 p.m.-9 p.m.
REAT
AMILY
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FREE!
FREE
209-532-7725 • www.sonoraca.com 1 1
Featuring LIVE MUSIC, STREET PERFORMERS, DANCING, ANTIQUE CARS, STREET ENTERTAINMENT, GAMES, FOOD & MORE sonorachamber.org
2013 Yosemite Courtyard Cabat EXPLORE
The
Groveland Hotel July 20
Summer of Love
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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. Included in your stay is a morning feast we nicknamed the Innkeeper’s Breakfast.
Return to the 60s Summer of Love on July 20 and dance to the hit tunes of that truly groovy era! This group moves from the harmonies and costumes of the earlier part of the decade, through the English Mod look and sound and Motown’s soulful songs, to finish with a flashback to the Summer of Love itself. From San Francisco’s psychedelic Haight-Ashbury to the muddy meadows of Woodstock, the feel-good music of peace and love had us all dancing to the groove, whether young or old.
August 17 Hella Good 80’s Band
California-fresh Cuisine Historic Saloon • Cocktails e The
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Cellar Door
R e s t a u r a n T
August 17, the Hella Good Party Band brings you the radical hits of the 1980s! This high-energy six-piece act Ely performs two sets; the first a revue of where it all began with a young 1950s Elvis Presley, and the second set focusing on his 1968 black leather “comeback” tour. September 14 Ely has made ELVIS is Back! numerous television appearances and As the grand finale to won multiple performance the 2013 season, Elvis awards, including “Best returns on September Elvis” at Thunder Valley 14! California’s own Rob
dresses the part and will get you on the dance floor with those totally tubular tunes we all remember from that colorful decade. Still have your white jacket, Vans, and Miami Vice pastels? Ready to tease up your hair and wear every necklace in your jewelry box? You’ll have a great time grooving to the music of Prince, Asia, Billy Idol, Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Michael Jackson, and many more. Casino in January 2013, and is the “Elvis of choice” for the Oakland A’s baseball team.
SEPTEMBER 14 ROB ELY IS ELVIS
All shows start at 8:00 PM, and dinner service begins at 5:30. Ticket prices vary by show. For more information about the Yosemite Courtyard Cabaret or to make reservations, contact The Groveland Hotel at 209.962.4000 or toll free at 800.273.3314, email us at guestservices@groveland.com. PerforThe Groveland Hotel 18767 Main Street Groveland, CA 95321 209.962.4000 800.273.3314 www.groveland.com exploresonora.com
THE ‘MOVIEES ’ RR XTAR PLO E AILROAD FEATURING ENGINE NO. 3
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CALIFORNIA STATE HISTORIC PARK
1897
museum l bookstore l excursions l events l family fun l 209.984.3953 l www.railtown1897.org
July 20, 2013
Spotlight on Railtown Fundraiser Behind-the-Scenes at Railtown with local wineries serving amongst the locomotives, speeder rides, live music and lots of other surprises, followed by a special, excursion train.
July 27, 2013
Rods to Rails Join us for the 2nd Annual Rods to Rails Car Show, as Hot Rods take over the streets of Jamestown and classic cars are on display on our shaded lawn.
August 3, 2013
Singing Rails Railroad Music As long as there have been trains, there have been train songs to sing. Join us for a great time with performers Sourdough Slim, and bluegrass band Red Dog Ash, bring lowbacked chairs and a picnic and enjoy an afternoon train ride, then dine on the lawn. Advanced tickets suggested. Join us at Railtown for this unique event, which brings together the best of California folk musicians.
Aug.31, Sept. 1-2
Labor Day Weekend Regular, steam-powered ex-
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he 7th Annual Meals and Wheels For Meals On Wheels fundraiser will be held on cursion train rides depart Saturday August 24, 2013 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 Saturday, Sunday and Monday pm at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Last over the holiday weekend. year’s event raised over $77,000 and this year the organizers have set a target of $100,000. September 21, 2013 Mark Twain Train This year’s theme is “The Fabulous 40’s”. A time of War, a time of Cocktail Parties and a time when Hollywood made a name for itself. It was the Big Band Sound. It was ‘Casablanca’.It was ‘A Wonderful Life’… Prizes for the best 1940’s costumes… Military Uniforms…Red Cross Uniforms.... At 4 p.m., join Mark Twain on a 1940’s character from film or the era. the lawn at Railtown, while he spins some tales about his adventures in the Mother Lode. The event starts with appetizers and Then mingle with Mr.Twain and cocktails at 5.00 pm. During this time fiddler Dave Rainwater on the guests can review auction and raffle prizes and mingle. At 6.00 pm the train 5 p.m. train. Special, advanced- leaves for a 45-minute excursion along the rail line with live entertainment on sale ticket prices apply. board. Upon returning the exquisite Dinner Buffet prepared by ‘Seven Sisters is served. Rod Harris & the 1940’s Big Band will perform a 1-hour program of September 28, 2013 popular music of the era. The evening Evening Event closes with their signature live auction. Member Day:Twilight Train Ride Join us for a special, membersThe organizing committee starts only event. Twilight train rides, work as early as March to arrange the live music and more! Invitations event and it has become renowned as will be sent to all Railtown one of the premier fund raising events members in September, so of the year. Last year was a sell-out at watch your mailbox! Advance 400; this year they are increasing the reservations required. ticket numbers to 450.The total number of volunteers to make this event October Weekends happen is nearing 70. Harvest Haunt Express For tickets and further informaClimb aboard Railtown’s antion, contact the Senior Center at swer to Halloween: The Har209.533.2622 or visit vest Haunt Express, with our www.sierraseniorproviders.org “Skeleton Crew” aboard. Image Credis: Sears-Roebuck’s Magazine Specially decorated excurAd; Original sheet music from Warner Bros. sion trains depart on the hour ‘Casablanca’, ‘As Time Goes By’; Publicity from 11 to 3, filled with fun for still Alan Ladd & Veronica Lake in Parathe whole family. mount’s ‘The Blue Dahlia’ sonorachamber.org
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The Historic EXPLORE
Gunn House Hotel
Don’t miss our famous HotelBreakfast– Bear Innkeeper’s Built in 1850 ‘Gunny’ Our Famous
In the Heart of Historic Downtown Sonora
Waffles made to order!
Rooms $79-$125
TGIF Sonora 27
286 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Reservations (209) 532-3421 www.gunnhousehotel.com
event calendar highlights Magic of the Night
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hop & Stroll the Streets of Historic Downtown Sonora and hear a wide variety of music and find an array of entertainment. This summer time event is great for the entire family and has something for everyone! Volunteer Fire Museum Senior Lounge Rockin Rick & the Rhythm Wrangler Playing Rockabilly, Surf, 50’s and good old Rock’N’Roll, they will be located at the Volunteer Fire Museum near the Red Church. You can check out the Antique Fire Trucks on display or just have a bite to eat in the shade or take a tour of the Fire Museum. At Courthouse Park Chains Required A 10-piece rhythm and blues based band that will have you dancing or just singing along to your favorite tunes. They are sure to get you moving and grooving. The Mother Lode Antique Car Club and the Model “A” Car Club will be showing off their Vintage Classics. Mountain Mischief will end the evening with a fire show. Don’t miss this annual summertime favorite event. Historic Downtown Sonora 209.532.7725 FREE 6pm - 9pm
month when retail stores, art galleries are all open and feature elebrating summer and great local art Fridays, hundreds of and the best people from far and wide came Sonora musito party and dance in the streets cians. of historic downtown Sonora. 209.532.7697 The June 28th TGIF was the sonoranightout.com first TGIF Sonora event presented by the Sonora Chamber of Commerce and the merchants of the he Sonora historic downtown. Certified There were exciting bands, Farmers’ Market kid stuff face painting, balloon is open every animals and a free family movie. Saturday, from Radio personality, Rick Batiste May 18 through of KKBN spun classic hits and October 19, taught children how to do the 2013. “cha-cha slide.”. The Farmers’ Market is open This was an incredible event to the public every Saturday for all: singles, couples and morning from 7:30 a.m. until families. Sonora invites you to 11:30 a.m. the Historic Downtown again The Sonora Farmers’ Market on September 27th, 6-9 p.m., and is located on Theall and Stewart enjoy the music of some terrific Street and is one block off of bands and an Outdoor Movie Washington St/HWY 49. Theatre. Enjoy dining up and farmsoftuolumnecounty.org down Washington St.
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Farmers’ Market
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Historic 49 Trolley Service
2nd Saturday Art Walk Historic Downtown Sonora
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very 2nd Saturday of the month, 5pm-9pm, Historic Downtown Sonora comes alive with Art & Music! Experience Sonora’s magic every
exploresonora.com
SEPTEMBER
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Visit exploresonora.com or sonoranightout.com for all event details. Photos by Greg Kristapovich.
TheTrolleys run hourly into the evening on Saturdays until 9 pm and on Sundays until 4 pm. Trolleys are wheelchair accessible and equipped with bicycle racks. 209.532.0404 historic49trolleyservice.com
YARTS to Yosemite ervice from Sonora through
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he Historic 49 Trolley Service Groveland to Yosemite Naoffers locals and tourists the tional Park will begin in Mayopportunity to travel from Sonora continlng thru the summer. to Columbia and Jamestown on weekends through Labor Day yosemite.tuolumnecountytransit.com 209.532.0404 weekend.
2013
Pictured below; Blues Box Bayou; Black Irish Band; The Hot Dark
Our Community Partner
EXPLORE
Live Well. Be Well. This Edition of Explore Sonora pays special attention to Railtown 1897, one of the area’s most popular attractions. We encourage both visitors and locals alike to discover a bit of our Western History and M A G A Z I N E Heritage this spring, through summer, fall and winter. CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION
EXPLORE
Sonora Paul Bell
ADVERTISING SALES
Sonora Chamber of Commerce • Paul Bell
REGIONAL SALES
Paul Pieretti, 209.962.4143
EDITORIAL & PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTORS
Paul Bell Patricia Harrelson/Sierra Lodestar NBEAMS Baby & Kids Greg Kristapovich. Meg Werlhof Kristen Bezaitis Maggie Duncan Best Western Sonora Oaks Hotel The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau Sierra Repertory Theatre California State Historic Parks Tuolumne County Transit/YARTS
EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION INTERNS Meg Werlhof
Voted ‘Best Chinese Restaurant’ 2009, 2010 & 2011!
CONTENTS
2 YOSEMITE COURTYARD CABARET
The Groveland Hotel presents a variety of artists in their Courtyard through the summer. 2 CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
Things to look forward to this Spring & Summer. 3 SUMMER COMES TO RAILTOWN
A jam-packed calendar of events for the whole family through Spring and all Summer long. 3 MEALS & WHEELS FOR MEALS ON WHEELS
The seventh annual fundraiser is themed everything ‘1940’s’. The Rod Harris Big Band is featured with dinner provided by Seven Sisters. Silent Auction. 6 LIVE THEATRE
Sierra Rep and Stage 3 Theatre offer an outstanding season this Spring. Don’t miss anything! 6-9, 13, 15 THE GOOD LIFE
Your shopping guide chock full of unique stores and small town experiences.
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9, 12 HIGH COUNTRY DISCOVERIES
Where to stay, where to explore and how to get there. THE
SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community
10 - 11 DISCOVER THE HIGH COUNTRY
Highway 108 offers Discoveries & Adventure from Twain Harte to Kennedy Meadows. See what’s waiting for you.
Mailing Address 14 LIVE THEATRE P.O. Box 3084 Sonora, CA 95370 Sierra Rep and Stage 3 Theatre offer an outstanding Telephone: 209.694.4405 season this Spring. Don’t miss anything!. WEBSITE sonorachamber.org or sonorachamber.com 15 - 16 DETOURS & DISCOVERIES E-MAIL: info@sonorachamber.org A DAY IN YOSEMITE The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization Put your worries behind you and jump on board 20 DISCOVER YOSEMITE representing the community of Sonora. As the Sonora Chamber YARTS to Yosemite National Park from Sonora, of Commerce, we concentrate our marketing efforts within the Tuolumne County Transit and the Yosemite Area Regional Transit Jamestown and Groveland. Greater Sonora area. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is also System (YARTS) are partnerdedicated to raising the awareness of Tuolumne County through GOD’S BATH tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination. ing to provide service to YoA little hard to find, but worth the trouble. EXPLORE SONORA is a joint publication of The Sonora Chamber semite National Park from of Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions. Every effort 17 MURAL IN A DAY May to September. Taking has been made to ensure that all information contained herein A community comes together to remember Eleais accurate at the time of publication, but neither entity assumes YARTS from Sonora to zar “Ed” Rodriquez, the Flower Guy at the Sonora any responsibility for errors, omissions and changes. Yosemite National Park.
PAUL BELL l MARKETING SOLUTIONS
P.O. Box 5572, Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.352.8551 759050850 paulbell.biz l info@paulbell.biz
exploresonora.com
Farmers’ Market.
18 BEST KEPT SECRETS
Chicken Ranch Casino ‘Where the Big Winners eat!’ 19 CAVE & MINE ADVENTURES
Have the BEST Birthday ever!
Leave the driving to someone else and enjoy the day like a tourist.
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EXPLORE
the good life
fashion, home & garden
Joan’s Boutique
selection of greeting cards to make your gift complete. Now that’s one-stop shopping! Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store 98 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-1400
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xploring Downtown Sonora will likely reveal a pleasant surprise that you might not be expecting to find in such a small town. Joan’s Boutique at 52 S. Washington St. is owned and personally attended to by Joan Richardson, who’s been a retail merchant for more than two decades. 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 special discovery. Whether it’s clothing and accessories, or just her pleasant company during any hour of her very long retail day, which never seems to deter her from her positive, friendly and out-going demeanor. What is quickly revealed is Joan’s and her staff’s readiness to please every customer. Everyone is made to feel comfortable, which is exactly what Small Town Cheer is all about. Joan’s Boutique has been voted ‘The Best Woman’s Boutique/Clothing Store’ for six years in a row in the Union Democrat’s annual readers poll. She and her staff were recently voted Best Overall Customer Service. Joan’s Boutique 52 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1550 joansboutique.com
ners intersection of Bradford & Washington streets. There’s a wide selection of new and quality consignment Western wear including belts, boots and hats. Let ‘er Buck also offers Jim’s Formal Wear, uniforms (EMS, FIRE, CHP, CDCR), as well as children’s clothing. Because they wear what they sell, you are getting first-hand knowledge of what works! They can outfit the able ranch hand as well as the next Rodeo Queen. They take exceptional care of their customers, striving to provide the best value, selection, and service in the business. Let ‘er Buck has something for everyone. Let ‘er Buck Western Wear 68 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1144
Tradewinds t’s always an adventure shopping at
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Tradewinds. Their main focus is women’s clothing: better and designer labels (no more than two years old, or classic, timeless styles) in new or like-new condition. They carry all accessories: belts, footwear, hats, scarves and jewelry. They also have a small consignment section for men, with an emphasis on Hawaiian and silk shirts.
Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store f you’re looking for anything unique and
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useful for the kitchen, bath or garden, stop here first— and you’re likely to find it among their stock of kitchen gadgets, tools and accessories. They carry Nordic Ware, Chantal, BIA Cordon Bleu, Microplane, and more. Decorate a beautiful table with accent brands: TAG, Root Candles, April Cornell, and IHR paper napkins. Their indoor Market under the Awning offers a selection of gourmet jams, preserves, olive oils, baking mixes, spices, loose and bagged teas and seasonal treats to tempt you. Find your favorite fragrance from their complete line of Crabtree and Evelyn or the Home Thymes collection. Search their Garden section for the perfect accent for your entry, patio, or table. Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store also features a selection of Mt. Brow Wine and a selection of wine related products, gifts on’t just be part of the herd— start and gadgets. Customer Service is their specialty, with free a stampede by visiting Let ‘er Buck a few doors down from the Four Cor- gift-wrap on every purchase.They even offer a
Let ‘er Buck!
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exploresonora.com
Nearly all the home decor items you will see in the store are for sale on consignment. While not a vintage store, you will find a smattering of vintage couture pieces and traditional Hawaiian attire. Since they average over 100 new pieces to the floor daily, you just never know what you’ll find! Some favorite brands that you’ll find at Tradewinds are: Ann Taylor, Armani, Banana Republic, Brighton, Cache, Chicos, Liz Claiborne, Coach, Gucci, Anne Klein, and Ralph Lauren, to name a few! Tradewinds 63 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-8810 tradewindsconsignment.com
EXPLORE
Insuring our community since 1987 Business • Home • Auto Life • Health • Bonds (209) 533-0234
Mountain Home Gifts
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his unique gift store in Historic Downtown Sonora carries a wide selection of gifts, art, books and clothing that celebrate life in Sonora, the mountains and the surrounding small towns and foothill communities. If you’re walking, hiking, camping or exploring, there’s a collection of guidebooks related to the foothills, the Sierras,Yosemite National Park and the region. You can find reproductions of vintage signs, posters, postcards and other memorabilia related to life in the foothills, mountains and Yosemite National Park. There is also a selection of books by local authors. Mountain Home Gifts also specializes in Sonora branded clothing and merchandise. They also have furniture that can be customized to reflect favorite memories of your visit, your cabin or home. Mountain Home Gifts
ter if you want to be bronzed for a special event, vacation or just because you want that tan, now! Addictions Spray Tanning will get it right each and every time without the harmful effects of UV tanning. Addictions Fashion features contemporary clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories for women and girls.They carry reasonably priced limited edition collections with new themes launched every week. Featured lines include Naked Zebra, H&G, Miss Chic, Color Story, BLVD, Nine Bird and Lush among many more favorites. Addictions is one of Sonora’s newest, trend-setting boutiques catering to your favorite addictions.
Addictions Spray Tanning & Fashion 128 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 617-3689 sunlessaddictiontanning.com e
87 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-5319
Addictions Spray Tanning & Fashion
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Sun B.E.A.M.S. Baby & Kids Boutique
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onora’s first and only spray tanning saun B.E.A.M.’s is your one-stop shop for lon uses vegan-certified, organic spray stylish clothing, shoes and accessories tanning ingredients. At Addictions, evfor baby (up to size 12), diaper bags, ery customer is important, so they make baby skin care, and one of a kind gift items. sure that you look your best and that the This is the perfect place to shop and regcolor compliments your natural skin tone ister for any occasion. and is perfect after every session. No mat-
exploresonora.com
The owners (all moms) feature B.O.B. Strollers, Citizens of Humanity Maternity Jeans, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Charlie Rocket and Mud Pie, plus many more brands. For the expectant mom, Sun Beams carries maternity clothing as well. Sun Beam’s Baby & Kids Boutique 136 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-5800 sunbeamsboutique.com
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EXPLORE
the good life dining & specialty
A Mgreat Custom Framing frame does more than pro&
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tect the artwork it surrounds. It enhances and adds a personal touch to an entire room. A&M strives to work with their customers to create a design that is unique to their own personal decorating style.
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They offer a large selection of custom frames, ready-made frames, and quality matting in a wide variety of colors with experience in all aspects of custom framing including canvas stretching, needlework, pastel, photography, prints, sports memorabilia and shadow boxes. Visit them at 228 North Washington Street, just past the Red Church.They look forward to helping you creatively preserve all your precious memories and fine art. A&M Custom Framing 228 North Washington Street Sonora, California 95370 209-532-7411 aandmcustomframing@gmail.com Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Tuesdays & evenings by appointment.
If the shoe fits
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owntown Shoes is a foot-weary welcome to Historic Downtown Sonora as a new full service shoe store. Downtown Shoes specializes in comfortable and stylish shoes, boots and sandals for both men and women, along with a fun selection of socks and handbags. They pride themselves on the quality of their product lines. Close to Yosemite National Park, they offer you an opportunity to get yourself a quality pair of hiking, tramping, stomping or plain walking shoes for your exhilarating excursion into the wilderness, or just in and around town.
The owners, Rick and Melody, pride themselves on providing exceptional service and making sure all of their customers are properly fit in comfortable, yet stylish footwear. They also cater to the working men of the area with Red Wing and Wesco work boots, and if you don’t see what you need, they will be a happy to special order them for you. If you don’t live in the area, just give them a call or send an email, as they also offer free shipping within the continental United States. Downtown Shoes 4 S. Washington St. (209) 532-2500 4downtownshoes.com 4downtownshoes@gmail.com
your tastes. The front part of the store is a boutique, while the back half of the store is a dedicated consignment shop, with something to fit every budget, every taste and aspiration. As you wander through the shop, favorite things might happen to catch your eye. Certainly some of the unique jewelry that is offered, and many pieces that you’ll realize couldn’t be gotten elsewhere, and you’d best get them now, because you’ll never find them again. From the art lining the historic stone walls, to the beautiful display of clothing suited for a high-end boutique in San Francisco, Lauren and Lissa have made their shop into something that any woman is sure to enjoy. And it’s in Sonora of all places. According to the owners of Backspace, “We created it with love...and passion for a beautiful 1880’s gold rush building, and filled it with lovelies. Soft, timeless, versatile, wear-in-any-season pieces for your wardrobe. Along with vintage furnishings, local art, accessories, artisan jewelry (including a Jewelry Bar, where you can custom design your own pieces), or have something extra special made by us! Come in.You won’t be sorry...” Backspace: A Retail Retreat 67 South Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-4894 continued on page 13
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he shop is lovely. It’s filled with one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists as well as clothing, art and accessories that have a definitive feel. The first thing you’ll notice when walking in, is the atmosphere that Lauren Hurley and Lissa Anderson, the owners, have created. The space is warm and inviting, offering an unparalleled experience for its shoppers. You’ve reached their promise and are now part of their vision of the shop; a retail retreat. Along with vintage furnishings, local art, accessories and jewelry, you’ll be sure to find clothing suitable to exploresonora.com
• APPAREL • SHOES • ACCESSORIES • MANICURES • PEDICURES • FACIALS • WAXING • BEAUTY PRODUCTS
OPEN 7 DAYS 108 South Washington St. Downtown Sonora 209.588.8899
Discoveries: Where to Stay
Best Western Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center - East Sonora
Finding A Mild or Wild Adventure
Sierra Adventure Charters & Tours
Plus
H Hotel Rating: AAA-3 Diamond
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estled in a grove of ancient oaks in a park-like setting, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center is perfect for outdoor lovers. Just 75 miles from spectacular Yosemite National Park, we offer admission packages and transportation options to help make the most of your visit. This centrally-located Sonora hotel also offers easy access to year-round fun at Pinecrest Lake, New Melones Lake, Leland Meadows and the Dodge Ridge Ski Area. This Best Western PLUS hotel in the Central Sierra Foothills is also a great choice for guests who want to take a step back in time, as historic downtown Sonora, Gold Rush Town, Columbia Historic State Park and Railtown 1897 are nearby, and there’s plenty of gaming fun to be had at Black Oak Casino.
The Best Western PLUS Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center offers spacious, well-appointed guest rooms complete with cable satellite TV and free internet Wi-Fi. Best Western PLUS Sonora Oaks Hotel was voted “Best in Region” for 6 years.This Sonora hotel offers an array of amenities including a complimentary full breakfast, seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, free parking, business services and meeting/banquet facilities accommodating up to 160 people. This award winning hotel also features an onsite restaurant, lounge and an outdoor barbeque area. The friendly, helpful staff at the Best Western PLUS Sonora Oaks Hotel & Conference Center is ready to ensure a funfilled memorable stay in Sonora, California. Make a reservation today and save! BEST WESTERN PLUS SONORA OAKS HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER 19551 Hess Ave Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-4400 800-532-1944
ave you been the volunteer or always seem to be the designated driver on family and friend excursions, missing out on some of the fun? Well, now it’s your turn to sit back, relax and enjoy the fun. You can count on Sierra Adventure Charters and Tours to make your adventure, event, or special occasion memorable, without the stress of driving! Sierra Adventure will pick you up at your specified location and take you anywhere you and your party desire. They have a ten-passenger vehicle to accommodate a more personal adventure.Whether you choose a day trip within our beautiful foothills of Tuolumne, Calaveras, and Amador Counties to enjoy the sights and recreation, or a drive down to the coast for a beach get-away, Sierra Adventure Charters and Tours are at your driving service. They offer complimentary snacks and bottled waters. Their customized tour van is also equipped with a DVD player for informational videos or movies for the kids. Would you like to stop for coffee and a Danish before your trip? No Problem. Just let them know and they’ll stop at the cafe of your choice or even pick it for you. How about lunch? They can provide a picnic basket that can be filled with your favorite foods. Let them know ahead and they’ll put a lunch together for you from a local deli. Sierra Adventure Charters and Tours company began following a phenomenal European vacation taken by owners Scott and Kelly Smith in order to celebrate an anniversary. After arriving in Italy by train, they ran into a gentle-
man who operated a private transportation company and offered his services to create a custom driving tour throughout Tuscany, travelling to any destination without being bound by a tour group’s itinerary of destinations or a preset schedule. This level of exceptional customer service enabled them to experience our vacation to a degree of perfection that simply would not have been possible without flexible professional transportation. After returning home to the United States, Scott and Kelly realized that what they must do is bring the joy and adventure of that unique experience to as many people as possible. As a result they founded Sierra Adventure Charters and Tours for the Sierra Nevada region and all surrounding areas to those with an eye set on adventure. While planning your vacation, let Sierra Adventure Charters and Tours be your source of professional travel and tourism assistance! From the mountains to the ocean, and all dream locations in between, let us do the driving! Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
SIERRA ADVENTURE CHARTERS & TOURS
sierra-adventure.com tours@sierra-adventure.com (209) 677-3183 (888) 963-6235
TCP #31082 CA 441289
tuolumne county and the yosemite Gold Country
DISCOVER High Country Adventure
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egin your ‘High Country Adventure’ by heading east on Highway 108 from Historic Sonora.
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ook carefully for the turn-off from Highway 108 east that will wind down into the village of Twain Harte.
and a resort named after Mark Twain and Bret Harte, two famous writers and area travelers of the Gold Rush era.
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riginally home to the Me-Wuk Indians, during the California Gold Rush, the area was used as a way station for supply wagons from Sonora to the eastern mines.Years after mining petered out, the area was promoted in the 1920’s as a real estate development
rom Memorial Day through Labor day, Twain Harte buzzes with a happy summer throng, filling the B&B’s, motels, inns, camp grounds, RV Parks and rental cabins hidden throughout the cooling trees, during the sizzling summer in the foothills below.
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uring the summer months, Concerts In the Pines are presented every Saturday night. Located in Eproson Park, concerts start at 6pm and are free to the public. Picnics, blankets and low-back chairs are welcome but
you may want to arrive early to secure a spot on the grass.
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wain Harte also hosts a number of seasonal events throughout the year. Look for their 4th of July Celebration; Wines in the Pines: Art & Wine Festival (July); and the Twain Harte Film Festival in September. The Christmas Parade is local favorite worth a look in early December.
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ust a few miles east of Twain Harte are three small mountain communities Sugar Pine, Mi-Wuk and Sierra Village. As you travel ‘up the mountain’ there are restaurants, lodging choices, recreation opportunities, all just within a pleasant stretch of a few miles.You’ll also find some unique businesses catering to locals and visitors, some year round.
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i-Wuk Village, was named in recognition of the Me-Wuk who have lived in the area for centuries and were first to travel eastward along the Sonora Pass to trade with other Native
Americans along the eastern slope of the Sierra Mountain Range.
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oday, the Tuolumne Band of MeWuk Indians rancheria (reservation) is located in the town of Tuolumne and operate the Black Oak Resort just a lovely six mile drive from Twain Harte to the south west, on Tuolumne Road.
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ust beyond Sierra Village is Long Barn Lodge Ice Rink & Event Center.Yearround activities can be found nearby. Just a little bit north of Sierra Village is Lyons Reservoir at 4226 feet. The Stanislaus River runs through Lyons Reservoir and offers white-water rafting nearby and the area is attractive to hikers and cyclists. These waters are superb for fishing and boating .
Photo Credit:Dodge Ridge
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odge Ridge Ski Resort is about 45 minutes from Sonora. Campground sites are available in spring and summer. Dodge Ridge offers their Annual Labor Day Weekend Kick Off to the Ski and Ride Season. There’s a Barbeque with live music and a special prior year gear sale. The lift season begins in mid-December. Tuolumne County Transit and Dodge Ridge operate the SkiBus from December through March or April depending on the weather and snowpack.
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inecrest Lake is located 30 miles east of Sonora along Highway 108. This beautiful recreation destination is surrounded by timber at an elevation of 5,600 feet. The California
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bout an hour drive, 58 miles east of Sonora, and 1 mile off Highway 108,Kennedy Meadows Resort & Pack Station has been a destination for families, groups, friends, and wilderness adventurers for almost a century. amenities in several campgrounds. There are also group sites and Day Use sites as well.Groceris and supplies are available in the commercial center of Pinecrest. There’s also a designated swim area, fishing pier and boat launch. There’s a 4 mile hiking trail around the lake with paved pathways connecting points of interest. During the summer season an outdoor movie theater on the edge of the lake, offers some of the latest Pinecrest Lake popular film releases.
Photo Credit: Kennedy Meadows
THE
PLEASE
TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU
VACATION STATION: 800-446-1333 209-533-4420
CALL OUR
OR VISITUS ONLINE
yosemitegoldcountry.com
The rustic cabins, authentic saloon, horseback adventures, family style restaurant, and quality hunting and fishing have brought people back to Kennedy’s for generations. The Country Store has just about anything you may
need for your pack trip into the High Country wilderness. Hiking, horseback riding (hourly or daily), backpacking, horse pack trips, fishing and opportunities, and even dancing in the Last Chance Saloon, compliment your High Country Adventure.
Vacationland High country adventure TWAIN HARTE
In winter, the Pinecrest Recreation Area is a popular destination for snow play, downhill as well as Nordic skiing. Groomed or marked trails are maintained for winter enthusiasts throughout the area.
Twain Harte Chamber of Commerce (209) 586-4482 twainhartecc.com
SUGAR PINE MI-WUK VILLAGE SIERRA VILLAGE Area Information miwukvillageca.com
LONG BARN LODGE (800) 310-3533 longbarn.com
PINECREST
Pinecrest Lake Resort (209) 965-3411 pinecrestlakeresort.com
Department of Fish and Game stocks Pinecrest Lake with plenty of rainbow trout for excellent fishing. Nearby there are many hundreds of campsites with full
PINECREST CAMPGROUND (209) 965-3116 1-877-444-6777 recreation.gov
DODGE RIDGE RESORT
Pinecrest Lake Kayaks - Lynn Ferrin
Main: 209-965-3474 Campground: (209) 965-3116. SnowPhone: 209-536-5300 dodgeridge.com
KENNEDY MEADOWS RESORT & PACK STATION Summer/Winter: (209) 965-3911 kennedymeadows.com
CAMPGROUNDS
1-877-444-6777
RANGER DISTRICTS
Mi-Wok District, 24695 Highway 108 (209) 586-3234
SUMMIT DISTRICT
#1 Pinecrest Lake Road Pinecrest, CA 95364 (209) 965-3434
Twain Harte Discovery
Sierra Cellars and Copper Cellars
“By the taste, by the glass or buy the bottle!”
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ttracting both novices and aficionados, Sierra Cellars is a casual, educational, and most importantly, a fun tasting experience. Escape the con-
ventional wine bar experience by visiting their tasting room in the lovely town of Twain Harte, gateway to the Central Sierras and the High Country.
Boutique Wine Stores, Gifts and Tasting Rooms SIERRA CELLARS 22964 Meadow Lane Twain Harte CA 95383 (209)586-1104 sierracellars-winetasting.com
COPPER CELLARS 308 Town Square Rd. Copperopolis, CA 209-785-9292 www.coppercellars.com
“We also offer wine related gift items, and paintings .”
— Doug & Becky Halvorsen
Sierra Cellars in Twain Harte
A taste of the Sierras “Come in and wine a bit,
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you’ll feel better!” ierra Cellars, in Twain Harte and Copper Cellars, in hether you’re a connoisCopperopolis, showcase select seur or just a wine-lover, vineyards from the Sierra Footwine-tasting is more than aphills region of Northern Calpreciating great wine- it’s a lifeifornia, presenting wines in a style. comfortable, pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. elebrate good taste with an array of locally produced hether you prefer red wines that are difficult to find wine or white , you can because select vineyards are select from many varieties of not producing for mass confine vintage. sumption.
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Copper Cellars Copperopolis Town Square
A unique Wine-Tasting Experience That Engages The Senses
Lodging in the High Country
Hotels, Motels, B&Bs, Inns, Camping , RV Parks Visit www.yosemitegoldcountry.com
TWAIN HARTE
LEGEND Area Code is (209) unless noted otherwise HOTEL/MOTEL CABIN/RENTAL
BED & BREAKFAST/INN CAMPING/RV
Clarks Fork/Sand Flat • Clarks Fork Horse Camp MI-WUK KENNEDY MEADOWS A Lovely Place 586-2583 • 22511 Confidence Rd Kennedy Meadows Resort (closed in winter) MiWok Ranger Station,Stanislaus National Forest Christmas Tree Inn 586-1005 • 800-399-3900 • • 586-3234 • 24695 Hwy 108,MiWuk Village • alovelyplace.com • 965-3900 • kennedymeadows.com • Hwy 108 • 24685 Hwy 108, MiWuk • thechristmastreeinn.com • r5.fs.fed.us/stanislaus El Dorado Motel & Gift Shop 586-4479 HIGH COUNTRY LONG BARN Fraser Flat • Hullcreek/Sandbar Flat • (888) 894-8580 • 22678 Twain Harte Dr. Long Bam Lodge 586-3533 • 800-310-3533 CAMPING & RV SITES Lodging & Visitor Iformation FunCabinRentals.com (925) 963-2857 · 3 Links Camp (Groups & Individual Campers) • longbarn.com • 25957 Long Barn Rd. Tuolumne County • Fax: (925) 226-3150 • 22743 Bret Harte Dr. • 586-5500 • 707-275-2070 • 21950 Hwy 108,MiWuk Our Sierra Cabin 810-4891 • oursierracabin.com Visitors Bureau: Gables CedarCreek Inn 586-3008 Dardanelle Area Campgrounds • 25931 Scenic Dr., Long Barn 800-446-1333 • 888-900-4224 • 22560 Twain Harte Dr. • gccinn. • 965-3116 • Hwy 108 20 east of Summit Ranger Station com 209-533-4420 Brightman Flat• Boulder Flat• Dardanelle DODGE RIDGE Lazy Z Resort 586-1214 • 800-585-1238 22732 yosemitegoldcountry.com Camp Sylvester Resort 965-3172 • Dodge Ridge Middle Camp Rd ·lazyz.com • Eureka Valley• Pigeon Flat Manzanita House Bed & Breakfast • 586-9410 Rd.• campsylvester.org Pinecrest/Meadowview/Pioneer • 965-3116 • 877-444-6777 • Pinecrest Lake Rd, • manzanita-house.com • 18864 Manzanita Dr. STRAWBERRYPINECREST McCaffrey House B&B Inn 586-0757 Pinecrest Chalet 965-3276·Fax: 965-3849 Darlene’s Vacation Rentals 669-1401 • 800• 888-586-0757 • 23251 Hwy 108 • mccaffreyhouse. 273-0740 • pinecreestarearentals.com • pinecrestchalet.com • 500 Dodge Ridge Rd., Pinecrest com Pinecrest Chalet 965-3276 ·Fax: 965-3472 500 Summit Ranger Station,Stanislaus National Forest Twain Harte Rentals 586-5204 Dodge Ridge Rd.• pinecrestchalet.com • 965-3434 • #1 Pinecrest Lake Rd. • 22922 Twain Harte Dr. • twainharterentals.com Pinecrest Lake Resort 965-3411 • pinecrestlak- • r5.fs.fed.us/stanislaus • 801-226-3564 • americanLL.com Wildwood Inn 586-2900 • 22960 Meadow Dr. eresort.com • 421 Pinecrest Lake Rd., Pinecrest Cascade/Mill/Niagara Creek • Fence Creek • • wildwoodinn.com Baker/Deadman Campground
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the good The Candy Vault
life
food walking into a Norman Rockwell painting on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. A visit leaves one with a warm and comforting glow, reassuring you that enjoying a bit of ice cream and candy might be a good thing after all.
The new owners, John and Brandi Ogle, share their enthusiasm for their business with every customer saying, ‘Have a sweet day,’ as they leave with a bag full of treats. The Candy Vault offers hard-to-find handmade chocolates and specialty brands. They also now feature organic and even sugar-free delicacies. Be sure to stop by especially during the Holiday Season, ocated in the historic Na- as they will continue the traditional Bank Building on tion of Santa Stories through the corner of Washington and Christmas. Bradford, the Candy Vault takes customers back a half-century, Visit the Candy Vault and offering a feeling reminiscent of you’ll feel like a kid again.
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The Candy Vault 42 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-2388
Emberz
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reat fast, fun food can be found at one of the best locations in historic Downtown Sonora. Emberz is now the hottest spot in town and probably the coolest place to be seen.The menu includes salads, burgers, sandwiches, pizza and entrees from Chef Andrew. Old is new again in the full bar, featuring classic cocktails that are made fresh with a delicious Emberz twist that you’ll have to discover for yourself. Emberz sparkles with enthusiasm and just beams food, drink and an evening of fun and good company. The wood-fired pizza oven just beyond the bar has not escaped the attention of the owners and is decorated with bits of colored glass and ceramic tiles by the entirety of the Emberz staff, which speaks to the commitment of everyone involved in a great dining experience.
sonorachamber.org
The restaurant is within a short walk to shopping and art galleries and is ideal for a preshow dinner or after-show cocktail, just two blocks from Stage 3 Theatre Company.
Emberz 177 S Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-2272
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685 South Washington St., Sonora • 209.536.1400 • groceryoutlet.com/Sonora-CA
Live Theatre
town. “A soulful musical. The amiable Country-flavored tunes and lyrics are transcendant. It is not often that material moves me to tears, but this was one of those occasions. “The Spitfire Grill” has heart and soul.” (New York Magazine)
Sierra Repertory Theatre Co.
Sierra Rep (or SRT) presents nine main-stage shows per year at two locations – the original East Sonora Theater and the Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park. Sierra Rep plays to an audience coming from both the Mother Lode area and from an hour or more away.
SRT Venues
East Sonora Theatre 13891 Mono Way, Sonora Fallon House 11175 Washington St. Columbia www.sierrarep.com Tickets & Information
2013 Season Oklahoma!
June 28 - August 18, 2013 Fallon House Threatre
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Stage 3 Theatre Co.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first glorious collaboration created a new standard for musical theater. Set in the Western Territory the high-spirited rivalry between the farmers and the cowboys provides a colorful backdrop for the love story of handsome cowboy Curly and winsome farmgirl Laurey.
Stage 3 is a ‘black box’ theater with an intimate 85 seats surrounding the stage on 3 sides. Productions range from very simple staging to very complex sets. The Company has earned a reputation for producing outstanding plays in their 20 year history.
The Diviners
June 21 - July 28 In the heat-scorched Dust Bowl of the 1930’s, young Buddy Layman has become something of a legend in Zion, the Indiana town where he lives. Having barely escaped drowning when he was four, he is now mentally scarred and irrationally terrified of water. Somehow, Buddy has developed a miraculous gift: he can find precious water.
RESPECT:
A Musical Journey of Women
July 26 - September 1, 2013 East Sonora Theater This international hit musical tells the exciting story of women through popular music and the real adventures of women realizing dreams, lost loves, relationships and careers.
A Streetcar Named Desire
By Tennessee Williams September 6 - October 13, 2013 This play reveals to the very depths the character of Blanche du Bois, a woman whose life has been undermined by her romantic illusions, which lead her to reject the realities of life. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1948.
Don’t Dress for Dinner
September 6 - September 29, 2013 Fallon House Threatre A philandering husband is hoping to entertain his mistress for the weekend, has arranged for a chef to furnish the gourmet delights and is in the process of packing his wife off to her mother’s. Except the Mrs. has a few secrets of her own, the chef is mistaken for the mistress, an extra husband shows up, and each outlandish explanation if more ludicrous than the last.
Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S Green St, Sonora ,Ca 95370 stage3.org Tickets & Information
209.536.1778
“Hurling along at the speed of light, (this) breathtaking farce is a near faultless piece of theatrical invention.
The Spitfire Grill
October 4, 2013 to October 27, 2013 East Sonora Theater Since it opened off-Broadway in 2001, “The Spitfire Grill” has become one of the most often-produced new American musicals. Its depict the journey of a fiesty young woman just released from prison who decides to start her life anew in a rundown mining
The fairgrounds features many annual events including home shows, musicial events, craft fairs, antique shows, rodeo in May, and the Mother Lode Fair in July.There’s also an RV Park. Mother Lode Fair & R.V. Park, 220 Southgate Dr. ,Sonora,95370. (209) 532-7428 motherlodefair.org exploresonora.com
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the good life Europa Deli, Sports Bar & Grill he story of the Europa as an iconic T downtown Sonora restaurant begins nearly a century ago, yet the newest chapter of this famous eatery begins, after months of painstaking renovations with the return of the new, ‘old’ Europa under management of the 3rd and 4th generations of Bezaitis family operation. Owners Larry and Brenda have taken the restaurant to its highest level of
Crab Salad:One of many Europa favorites.
perfection with a refreshing ambiance and relaxed atmosphere, coupled with an extensive menu that includes most all of the famous home cooked favorites along with a wide mix of modern, heart-healthy menu items. While many of the old ‘comfort’ foods the Europa is famous for have already generated legions of repeat business with the locals, so have the many added items such as the generous selection of dazzling salads, old fashioned deli sandwiches, Gyros, soups, and vegetarian and vegan selections. The Europa uses nothing but the finest ingredients and strives to also feature many of Tuolumne County’s locally grown and crafted produce, olive oils, seasonings, wines and sauces, and pies. From the return of the famous Europa quarter-pound hamburger with homemade fries, or the hand-cut and always fresh chicken fried steak with homemade mashed potatoes and homemade gravies, along with some of Sonora’s finest steaks to the heart=healthy items also available, there is a great selection for every appetite. Clean, refreshing and comforting atmosphere, friendly wait staff, quality foods and low prices. Welcome back to the Europa! Come in and enjoy your choice of a retromodern diner era dining room or the cozy sports bar with 65” LED TV and a great
detours & discovery
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woke up at 6:30 a.m. on a Sunday morning for a day of escape to Yosemite. With my best friend Amber by my side I knew that it was bound to be a day full of adventure, laughter, and even a few ‘did that really just happen?’. Amber and I always enjoy trying new things and we hoped today would be special. For the first time in my
Evan Ethan Harrington enjoys a Europa favorite. Inset pnoto:1/4lb. bacon cheeseburger & homemade fries, $6.99
selection of appetizers. Don’t have time to sit? Try a picnic basket for your next outdoor adventure with their deli sandwiches or a mix of their fine meats and cheeses. The Europa also offer off-sale beer and wine to fully compliment your day! Europa Deli, Sports Bar & Grill California Grill/Full Bar/Wine Bar Price Range: $$ /Dine In/Take Out 273 S. Washington St., Sonora (209) 536-4670 e
yosemite
life,( all twenty-five years of them) living in Sonora— I was going to take public transportation. Living in such a rural area I can simply jump into my car and go. Anywhere. Anytime. However, we were feeling adventurous and decided to give something new a try. The feeling of letting go of the trouble and hassle of a driving a car for the day seemed more than welcoming. Especially in deciding to take a trip to Yosemite National Park. We found the downtown Sonora YARTS stop at the Inns of California on Washington Street around 8 a.m. and were greeted by a large, sleek bus with ‘YARTS’ in huge letters on the side. Our carriage for the day! We were welcomed by a very friendly driver and were told to make ourselves comfortable for the ride
into Yosemite. The bus made a few more stops on the way and more people joined us who appeared just as eager as we were for the day. The ride was very comfortable and without having to use my own energy in driving I was able to reserve it for the day ahead of us. We arrived in front of the Yosemite Visitors Center at about a quarter to eleven. The weather was a refreshing seventy-five Continued on next page
Yosemite NATIONAL PARK All menus subject to change without notice. Service from Sonora • Jamestown • Groveland/Yosemite Pines Buck Meadows • Thousand Trails sonorachamber.org • Crane Flat
YARTS.COM • 877.989.2787
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degrees. How much more relaxing and perfect could this day be for us? We quickly made our way over to the Yosemite Lodge & Curry Village to rent bicycles for the day. This is another first for Amber and me. I had always wanted to go bike riding through Yosemite and decided today was the day to do it.We arrived at the lodge and were told to pick out a bike for the day. I chose a bright orange one for myself and Amber chose a teal bike which suited her well. Then we were off. The cool breeze flowing through my hair made me feel more at ease than I had in a long time. I e 16 felt complete freedom. Being in one of the most beautiful places in the world and no worries for a girl who works six days a week. Amber and I made our way over to Curry Village stopping along the way to take in the beautiful surroundings. The hustle and bustle of Curry Village made us excited to see what there was to
offer. We parked our bikes and decided to immmerse ourselves in a couple of delicious, fresh Bloody Mary’s before we went to find a place for our picnic.We engaged in conversations with some of the locals and felt a hint of jealousy that there are people who get to enjoy Yosemite all year long. After Curry Village we hopped back onto our bikes and headed down to the Merced River where we found a beautiful spot to share the picnic from the Europa Deli & Grill we had packed the night before, With a basket bulging with delicious sandwiches and other local treats we couldn’t wait to dive in to our lunch. Feeling full and happy we wanted to see what else there was to discover. We jumped on the bikes and made the short trip over to the famous Ahwahnee Hotel, It was at this point that I’m not exactly sure what happened. Amber and I must have been just a bit-to-full of zealous girl-energy. We were riding our bikes rather fast and having a great time when I came around a turn and hit my brakes then whenmy bike and I went down. As I lay there in the dirt with my bike on top of me I couldn’t help but laugh. If anything of this sort was going to happen, it was going to happen to me. It was then that Amber went to grab for her phone to take a picture of my humiliation that we discovered we had lost her phone on one of the bike trails. Needless to say most of the pictures of the day had been captured on Ambers phone. We were devastated. Even so, it still marks one of my best days spent in Yosemite. The YARTS bus offered the perfect escape for a carefree day and for just $25.00 which even includes the entrance fee to the park. It’s a deal that cannot be beat. Buses and bicycles are now at the top of my list of ways to experience Yosemite. My next trip to Yosemite will be much sooner than later and perhaps I will make sure to wear a helmet next time. And maybe save the Bloody Mary’s for the end of the day. — Kristen Bezaitis
YARTS Yosemite Bus Info yosemite.tuolumnecountytransit.com 877.989.2787
Yosemite Lodge at the Falls (209) 372-1208 Shuttle Stop #8 Curry Village Recreation Center (209) 372-8319 Shuttle Stop #13 or 21
Postscript: At time of publication the Park Service notified Amber that they had located her iPhone by GPS and would drop it in the mail th her.
god’s bath
About an hour from the base of Highway 108 at The Best Western Hotel or from the Junction Shopping Center on Tuolumne Road, is one of the hidden Jewels of Tuolumne County. Get a map and ask for directions is good advice.The Europa Dell & Grill is a good place to ask for directions.
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od’s Bath can be found off the second bridge on Buchanan Rd on the way out to Cherry Lake. Parking is roadside on the right over the bridge. Looking up river on the right side of the bridge railing there is a steep and rocky trail leading down to the river. After the initial steep climb down, God’s Bath is a short, rocky hike along the river bed about a mile up river. The hike isn’t far, but by the time the swimming hole of God’s Bath is reached the smooth sloping rocks are the perfect place to catch your breath on as the cool, crisp waters seems more and more inviting. Looking off the edge of the water fall into the deep water initially gives people butterflies. Some people do take the jump. I keep coming back every summer for the clean and crisp waters and serene atmosphere that makes God’s Bath the perfect escape from the summer heat. — Maggie Duncan
Wells Fargo & Co.
Serving Tuolumne County for over 150 years
808 E. Mono Way, CA 95370 • (209) 532-3106 • www.wellsfargo.com exploresonora.com
MOTHER LODE BANK EXPLORE
“We’re Local and....Simply A Better Bank” www.motherlodebank.com
Mural In A Day
Downtown Sonora 172 West Stockton Road (209) 694-8400 Junction Shopping Center 13769-C Mono Way (209) 532-9400
commerce, culture & community The space for this article was donated by Mother Lode Bank.
This article appears cour- came to understand the power of tesy the Sierra Lodestar murals to serve communities—as public art, expressions of local hisby Patricia Harrelson tory, sources of community pride, for the Sierra Lodestar and boons to local economy. Much of what she learned came from participating in the Walldog onora’s Mural in a Day is all about bringing community to- Movement, an international group gether to create lasting public art. of artists invited to a city to paint But behind this simple mission is murals with images of local placa precious story—a convergence es, people, and products that have historical significance to the town. of people, dreams, and happenings—that underscores the com- As a Project Leader for Walldog in both Minneapolis and Pontiac, munity nature of the project. Judy developed her skills in design Elements have been aligning and large format painting.The exfor years, but a tragedy served as perience also birthed a desire to catalyst. Last September, Eleazar see this kind of community art in “Ed” Rodriquez, the Flower Guy Tuolumne County. at the Sonora Farmers’ Market, So of course Judy was delightwas killed in an automobile accied to hear from Sarah and Laudent while on his way home from the Sonora Market.The commu- rie, who had quickly discovered nity was heartbroken, for Ed had they shared a vision. Sarah sent an not only touched many with his email to a number of friends she thought might be willing to join in charismatic smile and uncommon kindness, he had filled local making the idea happen. The response was rapid and enthusiastic. homes with beauty. In short order, the Mural in a Day Two local women, Sarah RogProject took shape with a powers Nesper and Laurie Schwartz er-packed committee of dynamLehmann, each found themselves ic women who were experienced unable to sleep following Ed’s in community service. Co-chairs death, heartsick for his family and Sarah and Laurie were joined by aching from the thought of Farm- B.Z. Smith, Sally Dunn, Robin Philers’ Market without him. Both lips, and Katie Dunn. Adjectives women wanted to do something they used to describe their work to honor Ed, and quite indepeninclude: enjoyable, efficient, increddently they each came up with ible, and magical. the idea of a mural. Synchronicity “The teamwork is amazing,” shined from then on. said Sally Dunn.“Every time a new Sarah approached Erin O’Hare, task is identified, someone jumps Sonora Farmers’ Market Superin with I’ll-do-that.” visor, who was enthusiastic about Kismet surrounds Mural in the idea, and both women agreed a Day. Zac Garmin, who owns that Sarah should talk to muralist the building at the the Judy Grossman. Meanwhile Launorth end rie had emailed Grossman her thoughts about a mural in Ed’s honor. It’s not surprising that Judy was the artist to come to mind when considering a mural. Grossman spent years making a living as a sign painter, but slowly evolved into a muralist. In that capacity, she
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of the parking lot where the Farmers’ Market takes place each Saturday from April to October, had already thought of asking Judy to paint a mural on the exterior wall, so he was all for it when approached. He even had a vision of what the mural might look like. So sweet is the social scene and energy of Sonora Farmers’ Market that Zac wanted that spirit captured in an image on his wall. As Mural in a Day coalesced, the next step emerged: get the approval of the Design Review Commission. The Committee created a Facebook Page for Mural in a Day, and soon their message was flying to friends of friends, and lots of people were “Liking” the whole idea and marking calendars to show up for the Review Meeting. On the day of the Review, the Committee met beside the wall of Garmin’s building.As they readied for a moment of silence to honor Ed, his entire family drove up with three vases of flowers. Choked with emotion, everyone stood in a semi-circle before the white brick wall and bowed their heads. Later several blocks away, supporters filled the room for the meeting.The Committee delivered their argument for the mural: Public art enhances the quality of life in a community and elevates a feeling pride and contentment; The design for this mural tells a story about our town and celebrates the role of agriculture in our community;
sonorachamber.org
The mural pays tribute to Ed, a man who touched our lives and beautified our homes. When Ed’s wife, Maria, stood up and spoke, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.The design was approved. Next September, Judy Grossman will lead a cadre of local artists in painting the mural, but before then, the group must raise funds for the project—to compensate Judy for design and prep work and to pay for materials. Sally Dunn, fundraising chairperson, talks excitedly about plans which include: Paint cans labeled “Imagine:A Mural in a Day” placed in downtown businesses for donations; A booth during Farmers’ Market that will sell tee-shirts and cloth shopping bags; An Indiegogo fundraising campaign; “Donations are coming without even asking,” said Sarah Nesper. Last week, the Committee was invited to a luncheon at Kinematic Automation because Mural in a Day was selected as the beneficiary for one their annual fundraising events. In addition to receiving $561 raised at the luncheon, Sarah said a representative from one of Kinematic’s customers, MicroEssential Laboratories in Brooklyn, NY, happened to hear their story.“He was so touched that his company later mailed a check for $250.” Mural paint days are set for Sept 28-29, 2013 and the call is out for local artists. Judy Grossman is offering an orientation/ workshop in mid-September for the teens and professional artists who wish to participate. Contact Judy if you are interested at judyart4u@gmail. com The far-reaching arms of dreamers and artists are at work in Sonora. Keep an eye on their vibrant community action.
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best kept secrets H
“
ow fun!” was the phrase that kept running through my head while spending a few hours at Chicken Ranch Casino in Jamestown. My friend and I were looking for somewhere new and different to do; maybe get dinner and spend some time doing something fun-oriented. The Ranch House Restaurant, (‘where the big winners eat)’, actually surprised me. It’s settled into a soothing little nook of the casino, and is host to a fun and friendly wait staff. From a simple and delicious Black Forest ham and cheese sandwich, what I ordered, to a full dinner menu options like the Steak and Shrimp special, with steamed vegetables, for only $9.75, which satisfied my companions heartier appetite, there is surely something to please everyone. The food was excellent and fast at attractive
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Frozen Yogurt
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chicken ranch casino
price. For desert, the generous portion of cheesecake was entirely satisfyin.g. Every time I’ve mentioned this cheesecake to someone, my words are coupled with an ‘AOkay’ hand sign and a satisfied grin. There’s an on-site baker whipping it up right there in the kitchen, none of that frozen version. Not only do I plan on going back to the Ranch House Restaurant, but also plan on making it a regular haunt. Ranch House Restaurant proved itself a great spot to hang with the girls, and I think it’ll prove itself on date night as well. Having never gaming in a casino before, I thought that signing up for the Player’s Club at Chicken Ranch might be complicated. However, it was fast and easy and earned me $10 in free play! When you sign up for the
free membership rewards card, you become a member of the Chicken Ranch family and receive special offers all year long. I sat down at the first machine that caught my eye, and only because it reminded me of My Little Pony appealing to the inner 8-year old in my outward 21-year-old self. The Precious Diamonds slot machine was covered in sparkles and started spewing pots of gold, rainbows, and butterflies when I won. I can’t remember the last time I smiled as wide as I did when I kept winning! With the $10 in free play that I got just for signing up, I won $45 almost immediately, in one sitting and my first gaming experience. I got so excited and giddy with enthusiasm I had to take a photo
with my iPhone. Before I could snap a photo, an understanding security guard, very polite (and cute...) did not diminish my enthusiasm for first experience at Chicken Ranch Casino! Now that I’ve finally been to Chicken Ranch Casino, I definitely know I’ll be making regular trips back. I especially can’t wait for Bingo night and maybe even MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) events. – Meg Werlhof Chicken Ranch Casino 16929 Chicken Ranch Rd Jamestown, CA 95327 (209) 984-3000 chickenranchcasino.com
Salad Bar• Sandwich Bar
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15,000 Sq. Ft. Showroom Interior Design Services Home Decor Accessories 39 Years Experience Extended Financing O.A.C. Open 7 Days a Week
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