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Sonora EXPLORE
Stay l Play l Dine l Shop l Explore See what’s waiting for you this Christmas!
Fall/Winter 2011 e S
Holiday Events
Sonora Shop & Stroll
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Stage 3 Theatre Co. Christmas at Railtown
The City of Sonora Presents this Holiday Favorite on Friday, November 25th 5:30 p.m. rain or shine 1 www.sonorachamber.com
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EXPLORE
18767 Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 • 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 • www.groveland.com
Fa & WINTER
Tuolumne County Events
Octobe r
Nov 5-6
SONORA All Hallows Fantasy Faire
(209) 532-7428
Oct 22-23
SONORA Capitol Christmas Tree Celebration
SONORA Hometown Crafters Holiday Faire & Craft Boutique (209) 536-9625
Nov 25-27
SONORA 37th Annual Christmas Craft & Music Festival (209) 533-3473
Nov 25 - Dec 18
Nov 11 - Dec 17
(209) 533-4420
Nov 25-26
209-588-1672
Dec 11
COLUMBIA STATE HISTORIC PARK All Equestrian Christmas Parade (209) 823-3538
Jan 10, 2012
RAILTOWN 1897 “Shop Tours” (209) 984-3953
RAILTOWN 1897 “Shop Tours”
GROVELAND Hotel Charlotte Cuisine al a Cabaret
(209) 984-3953
(209) 962-6455
Mar 13, 2012
Oct 23
RAILTOWN 1897 “Shop Tours”
SONORA 35th Annual Sonora Bach Festival
(209) 984-3953
(209) 536-6330
Mar 31 & Apr 1, 2012
Oct 24
GROVELAND Hotel Charlotte Card Stamping Party (209) 962-6455
RAILTOWN 1897 “Opening Weekend 2012” COLUMBIA
RAILTOWN 1897 Santa Comes To Railtown!
Sierra Repertory Theatre
Oct 27-30
“The Winter Wonderettes”
2 GROVELAND/YOSEMITE Evergreen Lodge Halloween Music Festival
(209)984-3953
(209) 532-3120
Nov 29 & Dec 11
Nov 11- Dec 18
COLUMBIA
(209) 372-2606
SONORA
Oct 28-30
“Over the River and Through the Woods”
Stage 3 Theatre Company
SONORA Mother Lode Art Association 59th Annual Juried Art Show (209) 984-4048
Oct 28 - Nov 30
COLUMBIA Sierra Repertory Theatre “The Drowsy Chaperone”
(209) 536-1778
Nov 25
SONORA Historic Downtown Sonora Christmas Parade (209) 532-7725
Nov 25 - Dec 18
COLUMBIA Candy Cane Making
(209) 532-3120
Oct 29
COLUMBIA STATE HISTORIC PARK “Jack-O’-Lanterns Lighting” (209) 532-1479
City Hotel
Victorian Christmas Celebration & Feast (209) 532-1479
December Thru Dec 17
COLUMBIA
Sierra Repertory Theatre
“The Winter Wonderettes” (209) 532-3120
Dec 1 - 18
(209) 984-3953
Apr 7-8, 2012
RAILTOWN 1897 Easter Trains (209) 984-3953
Apr 14, 2012
RAILTOWN 1897 “Wildflower Trains” (209) 984-3953
Apr 28 & May 13, 2012
RAILTOWN 1897 “Mother’s Day” (209) 984-3953
May 16, 2012
RAILTOWN 1897
“School Trains” (209) 984-3953
SONORA
Sierra Repertory Theatre
“The Drowsy Chaperone” (209) 532-3120
Thru Dec 18
Oct 31
SONORA
GROVELAND Unique Halloween Downtown
Stage 3 Theatre Company
(209) 962-0429
“Over the River and Through the Woods”
November
Dec 2
(209) 536-1778
Nov 1 - Dec 18
BLACK OAK CASINO “Lacy J. Dalton”
Sierra Repertory Theatre
Dec 3
SONORA
“The Drowsy Chaperone” (209) 532-3120
The
COLUMBIA STATE HISTORIC PARK A Miner’s Christmas
Feb 7, 2012
Oct 23
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Dec 10 - 18
TWAIN HARTE “Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade” (209) 586-5197
Cellar Door
The Groveland Hotel at Yosemite National Park R E S T A U R A N T 18767 Main Street, Groveland, CA 95321 209.962.4000 • 800.273.3314 www.groveland.com www.exploresonora.com
California Fresh Cuisine
Our Community Partner
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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 & Heritage this M A G A Z I N E summer and through fall, winter, spring & summer. 2 TUOLUMNE COUNTY EVENTS CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION During the fall, winter and Holiday Season, visit the Paul Bell small towns of Tuolumne County and experience the ADVERTISING SALES many events awaiting you and your family. Calendar Sonora Chamber of Commerce courtesy The Groveland Hotel. Paul Bell 3 DISCOVER GROVELAND EDITORIAL & PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTORS About 1/2 hour away from Sonora explore this small Paul Bell town, Tuolumne County’s Gateway to Yosemite. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park 4 A DOG’S LIFE Stage 3 Theatre Company Meet some of our merchants and their best friends Ora Moss Morgan/City of Sonora as you Shop & Stroll Historic Downtown Sonora. Don and Laurel Sherburne Dale Bachelor 5 SMALL TOWN CHEER Christopher’s Ristorante See what’s waiting for you this Christmas. Shop our Brad Perk small towns and discover Christmas all over again. Joan’s Boutique 6-8 THE GOOD LIFE: FASHION, HOME & GARDEN Jim Hildreth One of the advantages of shopping in a small town COVER PHOTOGRAPH is meeting merchants who offer our unique brand of Dodge Ridge Ski Resort Small Town Cheer during the Holiday Season.
EXPLORE
Sonora
Voted ‘Best Chinese Restaurant’ 2009, 2010 & 2011!
9-12 DODGE RIDGE SKI RESORT
Before you know— it’ll be time to hit the slopes! Take advantage of the SkiBus to get you from Sonora to Dodge Ridge. $10/round-trip, $25/Family Pass/round-trip. THE
SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community
Mailing Address P.O. Box 884, Sonora, CA 95370 Vox/Fax: 209-588-9625 WEBSITE: www.sonorachamber.com E-MAIL: hscc@um.att.com The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization representing the community of Sonora. As the Sonora Chamber of Commerce, we concentrate our marketing efforts within the Greater Sonora area. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is also dedicated to raising the awareness of Tuolumne County through tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination. EXPLORE SONORA is a joint publication of The Sonora Chamber of Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions. Every effort has been made to ensure 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 eS
759050850 www.paulbell.biz l info@paulbell.biz
13 IN A SWEET COUNTRY TOWN
Ora Moss Morgan affectionately recalls Christmas of a century ago in Sonora. 14 HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Don and Laurel Sherburne offer insight about buying a second home in this moment of opportunity. 15 OVER THE RIVER & THROUGH THE WOODS
Stage 3 offers this offbeat production, back by popular demand, for the Holiday Season.
Black Chasm Cavern and Sutter Gold Mine during Talulah’s and Christopher’s are well worth a visit for your Sierra Foothills adventure. a great foodie experience at two exceptional restau- 20 RAILTOWN 1897 Year-round Family Fun and a bit of history at one rants in Historic Downtown Sonora. of Tuolumne County’s most popular area attractions. 17 THE BANDIT POET & WELLS FARGO BANK The ‘end’ of the story about the famous highwayman who robbed Wells Fargo & Co. 28 times. 16 THE GOOD LIFE: FOOD
18 CHRISTMAS AT THE GUNN HOUSE HOTEL
Gunny, the Hotel’s Bear, shares some of the most requested recipes from the historic hotel’s kitchen. 19 CAVE & MINE ADVENTURES
Discover Moaning Cavern Park, California Cavern,
www.sonorachamber.com
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discover groveland
travel
During the Holiday Season Groveland is well worth a visit for sightseeing, historical discoveries and some Christmas shopping, dining and even an overnight stay. osemite National Park for tourists coming from the San Francisco Bay Celebrated its 120th Area, Sacramento, Stockton, or Modesto. Birthday recently with Although Groveland boasts a population of apa unique companion in Cali- proximately 3,000 full-time residents,this number fornia’s history: California’s State often triples during the summer months.Visitors Route 120, Tuolumne County’s Scenic Gateway to the north- our area, as well as the many recreational opporern entrance to Yosemite Na- tunities offered nearby.This quiet hilltop commutional Park. nity has managed to retain much of its old west During the Gold Rush, SR charm, and still boasts the oldest continuous120 was originally known as Big ly operating saloon in California. Travelers enjoy Oak Flat Road, after the village playing golf at Pine Mountain Lake’s 18-hole golf of Big Oak Flat through which it course, taking in the sun at one of the numerpasses in the Sierra foothills. It was a pack trail from of course sightseeing. Stockton which became poprom the San Francisco BayArea and Central ular with prospectors about Valley Highway 120 is also the fastest route 1849. By 1874 it was a wagon toYosemite. This route through Groveland road, which extended to theYo- is one of Tuolumne County’s best kept secrets. semiteValley. Discover Groveland Magazine Established as mining camps in 1852,Groveland Published Winter/Fall & Spring/Summer and the nearby town of Big Oak Flat were once yosemite120gateway.com thriving California Gold Rush towns. After the decline in gold production, the historic town of Groveland made its mark offering hospitality to weary travelers coming to and from Yosemite National Park. Located only 26 miles from the northern entrance to the Park on Highway 120, today Groveland is the most convenient gateway
he Candy Vault, located in the heart of Sonora (in the historic National Bank Building), is an oldfashioned candy store offering a wide range of confections, licorice, chocolates and even ice cream. e carry hard to find nostalgic sweets from longestablished candy makers as well as the latest delights from new and specialty confectioners.
While you Shop & Stroll Historic Downtown Sonora this Holiday Season take note of something perhaps a little unusual— shop dogs.
Open 7 Days A Week Weekdays 10 am 7 pm Weekends 10 am 9 pm • Fine Chocolates • Organic Chocolates • Bulk Candy • Novelty Toys & Gifts OldFashioned Bottled Soda
209.532.2388 Addictions Sarah & Toby Breed:Yorkie
Benjamin Mike & Poppy Breed: Border Collie
Polka Dots Liz & Maurice Breed: Min. Poodle
Let ‘er Buck Laurie & Posey Breed: Cocker Spaniel
42 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA
‘Have A Sweet Day!’ 95370
small town cheer EXPLORE
Christmas begins at www.smalltowncheer.com
Small Town Cheer
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ive your family a special gift this Holiday Season.A little Small Town Cheer won’t cost you your sanity or put a dent in your wallet. Discover Christmas all over again! Brought to you by the Sonora Chamber of Commerce.
Christmas Lights Lane
The Merchant Awards are: Grand Prize $300.00, Second Place $200.00, Third Place $100.00 and two Honorable Mentions $50.00. Prizes will be awarded to winning Merchants and Businesses at the December 20th Sonora Chamber Mixer. Window/Display Judging will be based on a point system in the following categories: Theme, Creativity and Lighting. All Merchants or Businesses from School Street, South to Hospital Road along Washington Street, East as far as Barretta St., and West to the Junction of East Jackson at W. Stockton Street. There are no requirements for eligibility. Final judging will occur the week of December 13th – 20th, 2011. Holiday Shopper Gift Package ($300.00 Value) will be awarded by a drawing on December 20th.
Shop & Stroll
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orget the hassles of the big city and mall madness. Shop and Stroll in Sonora, Jamestown and Groveland during the Holidays and experience a little of our Small Town Cheer!
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uring the Holidays, Historic Downtown Sonora will Light Up Your Life with twinkle lights, window displays and Christmas Cheer! Shop and Stroll and vote for your favorite merchant window and enter to Win prizes. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the Second Annual ‘Historic Downtown Sonora Best Dressed Window or Holiday Display Contest’ for this Holiday Shopping Season. This contest is intended to encourage Historic Downtown Sonora businesses to celebrate the Season by embracing the spirit of our own Small Town Cheer and capturing the attention of locals and visitors alike.
Shop & Stroll Food Drive
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hare the Spirit of the Holidays by donating non-perishable food at select Sonora Area merchants. Look for the Food Drive Decal or Poster (see bottom of this page) for Donation Stations. Please visit smalltowncheer.com for a list of participating merchants.
Sonora Shop & Stroll
FOOD DRIVE www.sonorachamber.com
Dodge Ridge SkiBus
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inter brings snow, skiing, snowboarding and Family Fun! Hop on board in Historic Downtown Sonora and leave the driving to Tuolumne County Transit— Tuolumne County Transit gets YOU where YOU want to go! Visit dodgeskibus.com for details.
The
Capitol Christmas Tree
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he Chief of the Forest Service, is leading the State of California in the harvesting and delivery of the 2011 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Stanislaus National Forest. Known as the “People’s Tree”, the Forest Service has provided the tree to our nation’s capitol since 1970. The tree will grace the west front lawn of the U.S. Capitol in December 2011. The Superintendent of the Capitol Grounds has recently selected the perfect 60 foot red fir from the Stanislaus National Forest.The tree will be harvested on November 5, 2011, prepped for travel and loaded on a trailer to begin its 10 day tour through California. There will be a public view of the tree at Mother Lode Fairgrounds in Sonora, 10 am - 7 pm on November 5th, 2011. For information call 209.532.7428 California’s tree will then travel throughout the state visiting many cities and towns before it journeys to Washington, D.C. The California state tour is estimated to take about 8 days. www.capitolchristmastree2011.org
The most needed items are:
• Canned fruits and vegetables • Canned meats and fish • Canned soups, chili, stew • Dry foods such as beans, rice, pasta, macaroni and cheese, cup-o-soups, cereals, cereal bars, oatmeal and pancake mix • Peanut butter
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the good life Mountain Laurel Florist
fashion, home & garden
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 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 Town Cheer is all about.
value, selection, and service in the business. Let ‘er Buck has something for everyone. Let ‘er Buck Western Wear 36 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1144
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lowers are known to have positive effects on our moods, perhaps because they are a living creation of art. Flowers offer their beauty in return for care and attention. They also express a wide array of feelings and are inspirational for just about any occasion. But your flowers have already shared a vital relationship with the florist, who decides which flowers to buy and where to buy them from, and in whose care they are given before they are in your possession. It’s the florist and staff ultimately creating those personal touches for that special or spontaneous occasion. Thus, it is the florist who prepares your flowers for you -- not only in the beauty, artistry and style of a bouquet, but also in the care that the flowers will expect when they are presented to the intended. The staff of Mountain Laurel Florist will attend to every need for any occasion. Located in the heart of historic downtown Sonora, they also offer dried arrangements, a great selection of gift cards, centerpieces, garden décor, potted plants, bird-themed items, mosaic pieces, French milled soaps, and of course, delivery services. Mt. Laurel Florist 35 South Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-9533 mountainlaurelca.com
Joan’s Boutique xploring Downtown Sonora will likely
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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.
Leslie, Sabine,Tammy, front: Cloudia, Joan, Elizabeth
Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store
Joan’s Boutique has been voted ‘The Best Woman’s Boutique/Clothing Store’ for 6 years in a row in the Union Democrat’s annual reader’s 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
Let ‘eron’t Buck! just be part of the herd— start
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a stampede by visiting Let ‘er Buck at the Four Corners 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 Selix 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 www.exploresonora.com
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f you’re looking for anything unique and useful for the kitchen, bath and 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 accents from TAG, Root Candles, April Cornell, and IHR paper napkins. Their indoor Market under the Awning offers a selection of gourmet jams, preserves,
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Insuring our community since 1987 Business • Home • Auto Life • Health • Bonds (209) 533-0234
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 and gadgets. Customer Service is their specialty with free gift-wrap on every purchase.They even offer a 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
Sonora in a way— everything from wonderful collectables, antiques, vintage clothing, consignment or decorator items and you might even find a lovely garden pergola just waiting for you in the middle of the store. You never know, and only an occasional visit is never enough to get a complete sense of the ever-changing inventory. Housed in one of the most uniquely historic buildings in Sonora, the shop inspires one to wander around for that rare, unusual item or piece of furniture you’ve been looking for. Suzy, the owner, is constantly on the hunt for items that suit her and her clientele’s interests. The inventory changes weekly if not daily. The shop and Suzy’s enthusiasm and joy will always inspire you as you Shop & Stroll along Washington Street.
Scarlet’s Web
Tradewinds
Scarlet’s Web 31 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-8300
Mountain Home Gifts
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here’s no simple way to describe what you’ll find at Scarlet’s Web just above the Four Corners intersection in Historic Downtown Sonora. The shop reflects
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t’s always an adventure shopping at 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. 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 we 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
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• APPAREL • SHOES • ACCESSORIES • MANICURES • PEDICURES • FACIALS • WAXING • BEAUTY PRODUCTS
T OPEN 7 DAYS 108 South Washington St. Downtown Sonora 209.588.8899
www.sonorachamber.com
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 to the north and south including Yosemite.
685 South Washington St., Sonora (209) 536-1400
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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 cook books. Mountain Home Gifts also specializes in Sonora branded clothing and merchandise. They also have furniture that can be customized to reflect your favorite memories of your visit, your cabin or home. Mountain Home Gifts
134 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-5319
BLVD, Nine Bird, 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
Sun Beam’s Baby & Kids Boutique
Addictions Spray Tanning & Fashion
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o n o r a ’s first and only spray tanning salon uses vegan certified, organic, spray tanning ingredients. At Addictions every customer is important, so they make sure that you look your best and that the color compliments your natural skin tone and is perfect after every session. No matter 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. We carry reasonably priced limited edition collections with new themes launched every week. Featured lines include Naked Zebra, H&G, Miss Chic, Color Story,
un Beam is your one-stop shop for stylish clothing, shoes and accessories for baby up to size 12. Diaper bags, baby skin care, and one of a kind gift items. Perfect place to shop and register! Featuring 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
MOTHER LODE BANK “We’re Local and....Simply A Better Bank” www.motherlodebank.com www.exploresonora.com
Downtown Sonora 172 West Stockton Road (209) 694-8400 Junction Shopping Center 13769-C Mono Way (209) 532-9400
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memories
in a sweet country town
Snow along Washington Street in Historic Sonora
By Ora Moss Morgan Ora Moss Morgan’s column, “Gold Dust,” appeared for 17 years in the old Sonora Banner newspaper from 1933-1950.
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o you ask for the Christmas of our childhood days? My, it seems only yesterday that we were romping, happy, carefree youngsters, eagerly waiting for Christmas Day to come; we roamed the nearby hills, gathering holly berries and mistletoe to help decorate the house; and it was sweet and homey. Today everything is made to order - artificial and beautiful - you just buy and put them up - glittering and gorgeous, but I wonder if children today get the real thrill that was ours with the simple homemade garlands? Sonora was just a sweet little country town then, everybody knew everybody - everybody knew how many beaus Mary had - and who was going to get married and who was going to have a baby - and all were interested; people visited neighbors and friends - now they are too busy so they telephone; today the world is too busy - we do not have time to see the ones we know and love. Why - it seems to me we used to accomplish so much and still had time to do the thoughtful, friendly acts. Mundorf’s was another fascinating place at Christmas - and
lighted with just flickering oil lamps - they seemed so bright to us; and the drug store windows with huge round jars or bottles - red, blue and green - so colorful; I have never known the significance of these in the drug store windows or what was in them. I remember on Christmas Day all the old bachelor miners would come into town - they would sit on the benches along the street and perhaps have dinner at a hotel or restaurant - and too, they hoped to be treated to a Christmas drink - Tom and Jerry. I recall so many of those lonely old men I knew from childhood who lived along Wood’s Creek and on Bald Mountain; on this day were dressed in their best clothes- wearing often a nugget watch chain. And we do not forget those delicious home cooked Christmas dinners - everything homemade - no cans or packaged goods in those days - and no one could prepare and season things like Mother. Yes - we all love to think of those carefree days when the whole world smiled because it was Christmas - the happy family circle still unbroken - no vacant chairs. I am glad I knew these simple Christmases, but I will join with my family and kiddies in a modern Christmas celebration and like it.
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Lucky to get six hours of sleep?
Photos Courtesy Dale Bachelor Collection
www.sonorachamber.com
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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 Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
www.HeusersFurniture.com 37 S. Stewart Street • Downtown Sonora • 209-536-9834
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home away from home real estate
Buying a Second Home By Laurel and Don Sherburne Prudential California Realty
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ollywood stars are not the only ones with homes in the city and the country. Second home ownership has become an extremely popular trend in today’s real estate market. Why? Because demographics and technology are meeting to create a historic opportunity for buyers and sellers. As Baby Boomers rush toward retirement, second e 14 homes suitable for play now and retirement later have enormous appeal. Thanks to technology in the Mother Lode, second homes are becoming a place to work as well as play. Second homes may be located in “the pines” or located near a second work environment for those who commute frequently between different business destinations. How you use a second home is up to you, but if this is something you’ve been considering, NOW is the time to get the information you need to make an informed decision. A Real Estate Professional can help guide you through financial considerations, assist you in finding the right community with the right amenities for you and your family. Your real estate professional may be able to get you the information and advice you need to use the equity in your current home to finance the down payment on a second home, for example. For many, a second home in a vacation
or resort area can be an income property when not in use. Once again, a real estate professional will help you consider property management options that can be a crucial financial factor as well as important to peace-of-mind. Married couples, generally over age 35, with or without children are almost twice as likely to own second homes as single persons. And the fastest growing segment of second home buyers are age 35 to 54, without children at home. Some of the best locations are not more than two to three hours away from major metropolitan areas by car or plane. San Franciscans retreat to the Mother Lode because of this convenience. What makes a second home location ideal? Natural beauty is great, but don’t forget about cultural and social resources, as well as first-rate golf, tennis and other popular sports facilities. Nevertheless, you will likely get more enjoyment out of a property you can get to quickly and can use frequently. Since you know this area, chances are you’ll make a better real estate investment closer to home. And be sure to look at each property with an eye toward tomorrow, because the vacation homes likely to appreciate the most are the ones that Boomers can play in today and retire in tomorrow. There are many factors involved in selecting the right community for you and your family. Discuss your options with your real estate professional. This will provide the information he or she needs to help you find property listings to tour. Remember, a targeted approach to house hunting is less time consuming, less expensive and more efficient. Laurel and Don Sherburne can be reached at (209) 768-8273 or (209) 613-4397. Prudential California Realty is an independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
www.exploresonora.com
TEAM SHERBURNE
Don Sherburne, Broker/GRI Laurel Sherburne, Broker Associate
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e chose a real estate career so that we can serve our clients as they purchase or sell a home. We love this area due to its proximity to Yosemite National Park, Pinecrest Lake, Dodge Ridge and Stanislaus National Forest. rom the diversity of the geography to the friendliness of your neighbors, Tuolumne County truly offers a quality of life without equal. hether your interest is in a primary residence, retirement or second home, or investment property, you can find your special property at an unbelievably affordable price.
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Prudential California Realty 22920 Twain Harte Drive Twain Harte CA 95383 (209) 586-1107 (209) 768-8273 DRE License #01842160 DonSherburne.com
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Over the River and Through the Woods Back by popular demand - one of Stage 3’s favorite holiday gems.... “A hilarious family comedy” —BackStage. “Deliriously Funny” —NY Daily News “The most hilarious evening of theatre I have ever experienced. If you see just one play throughout this hectic season, this is the one to see.” Calaveras Enterprise
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ick Cristano is a single, ItalianAmerican guy from New Jersey. His parents retired and moved to Florida. That doesn’t mean his family isn’t still in Jersey. In fact, he sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. This is routine until he has to tell them that he’s been offered a dream job. The job he’s been waiting for— marketing executive—would take him away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents. He tells them. The news doesn’t sit so well. Thus begins a series of schemes to keep Nick around. How could he betray his family’s love to move to Seattle, for a job, wonder his grandparents? Well, Frank, Aida, Nunzio and Emma do their level best, and that includes bringing to dinner the lovely—and single— Caitlin O’Hare as bait… Nick visits his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. Grandpa Frank crashes his car every time he gets behind the wheel. Grandma Aida keeps the house at a comfortable “August in Ethiopia” temperature. Nunzio and Emma are the loudest people on the planet and all four are the worst Trivial Pursuit players of all time. Over the River and Through the Woods is a bittersweet tale of the bonds between generations and the distances between them. Modern families break up. Values that are paramount to one generation are vestiges of a bygone era to another. One Sunday Nick announces that he has been offered a job across the country. When Nick explains, “There’s nothing to keep me here,” Aida re-
theatre
plies “What about us?” The four grandparents concoct a scheme to keep Nick near them and set in motion a chain of events that surprises them all. Join Stage 3 for this warmhearted evening and we think you’ll agree that “Over the River and through the Woods” is a great place to go for the holidays. Over the River and Through the Woods By Joe DePietro November 11 - December 18, 2011 Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S. Green St., Sonora, CA 209-536-1778 stage3.org
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Frozen Yogurt
•
Salad Bar• Sandwich Bar
Self Serve
Great Live Theatre In Historic Downtown Sonora
New Years Eve Party
Senior Discounts
December 31st
Just steps from
Shopping • Dining • Lodging
11 So. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370
209-536-1778 • www.stage3.org
(209) 532-6403 www.itsyogood.com
Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S. Green St., Sonora, CA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am - 9 pm • Sun 11 am - 7 pm
www.sonorachamber.com
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The
Historic
Hotel Choice in Sonora
EXPLORE
S ONORA DAYS INN Since 1896
the good life
food
I
n the Heart of Historic Sonora, California. Close to shops, restaurants, live theatre and many popular attractions for the entire family.
O
ur Historic Hotel has traditional furnishings while the Annex has contemporary furnishings.
I A
n every guestroom you’ll find coffee/ tea makers & 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.
Ask about our local e 16 Dining Discount Specials Sonora Days Inn Hotel & Room Amenities • High Speed Wireless • Handicap Facilities • Coffee Maker in Room • No Smoking Rooms • Complimentary • Rooftop Pool Newspapers • Cable TV Toiletries • Business Services Local Telephone • Voicemail/Data Calls • Ice/Vending Machines Outdoor Parking • Historic Elevator Disabled Parking • 24 Hour Front Desk • Wake up Calls • Nearby: • Meeting Space Golf, Tennis, Fitness • Banquet Space
Christopher’s Ristorante Italiano is accessible through our lobby and is well worth a visit during your stay!
Sonora Days Inn 160 S. Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370 Phone: 209-532-2400 Fax: 209-532-4542 www.daysinnsonora.com
Photos: Jim Hildreth
Talulah’s Restaurant
T
his intimate restaurant makes an effort to present simple,but creative dishes,consistently prepared with fresh ingredients.Talulah’s is much like many fine, casual cafes or artisan bistro you might find throughout Europe. An attentive staff accommodates your presence, whether alone or a spontaneous, causal gathering of friends, and even for a romantic dinner for two. Talulah’s easily accommodate modest changes to their dishes based on your appetite or taste preferences.A very friendly, small town accommodation. Their artisan bread, served warm with olive oil and herbs shouldn’t be taken for granted. It’s a conscious effort that reminds us that sometimes, even the simplest touches, are the most appreciated. It’s genuine comfort food with an upscale spin, especially when you discover even a simple dish like their macaroni & cheese. They’re open for lunches and dinners with a menu inclusive of salads, pasta, grilled entrées, and feature local wines as well. Moderate prices $10 - $30, and take out is available. Lunch & Dinner Price Range: $$ ($10-$30) Talulah’s Restaurant 13 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-7278
Christopher’s Ristorante Italiano
C
hef Chris Segarini lives his passion – creating, preparing and celebrating food with influences through his twenty years of experience. His menu reflects the pride of New Orleans and West Coast cooking. The Veal Piccata, was served golden brown, tender and succulent and the piccata sauce was definitely complimentary to the flavor of the veal— a nuance that might have escaped the attention and care of a less experienced chef. The grilled vegetables were hot and with just enough crispiness to confirm they were local, fresh and served with mashed potatoes prepared with a hint of garlic, so as not to overwhelm. Tiramisu was the perfect ending to a fine meal. Christopher’s carries a fine selection of local, California and Italian wines. It’s also a short walk from live theatre at Stage 3, and is conveniently adjacent to the lobby of the Historic Sonora Inn. Weekend Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Price Range: $$ ($10-$30) Christopher’s Ristorante Italiano 160 South Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370-4712 (209) 533-2600 christophersristorante.com
18202 Main Street • Jamestown • CA • 95327 • Phone • 209.984.0584 • stogiesatcoppercreek.com
Premium Cigars & Tobacco Accessories for Men & Women www.exploresonora.com
EXPLORE
The
Bandit Poet & Wells Fargo legends And everlasting sorrow. Yet come what will, I’ll try it once, My conditions can’t be worse, And if there’s money in that box, ‘Tis money in my purse. Black Bart, the P o 8
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o understand the impact famed stagecoach bandit, Black Bart, had on Wells Fargo & Company, is taking a quick glance at their final Robber’s Report revealing much of their frustration.There were 28 Wells Fargo Stagecoach robberies between July 26, 1875 and November 3, 1883. The hold-ups occurred along the Sonora route through Calaveras county, northern California and well into Oregon. The first and last robberies occurred on the Sonora to Milton stage line north of Copperopolis on the rail line connecting to all points. The beginning and end of Black Bart’s exploits occurred along the mountain pass called Funk Hill about 4 miles east of Copperopolis. Black Bart initiated the first successful stage robbery in California history. Although the bandit carried a double-barreled shotgun and wore a flour sack over his head, he earned part of his reputation as a gentleman bandit with an arrow-straight posture, never harming a passenger. During one of his later robberies, a lady passenger on the stage attempted to step out, but Black Bart reassured her, calmly and politely: “No lady, don’t get out. I never bother the passengers. Keep calm. I’ll be through here in a minute and on my way.” He departed after removing the modest contents of the lock box, $50.00 in gold, a watch and the mail bags. He occasionally left behind poetry in the emptied Wells Fargo & Co. lock boxes, which taunted their investigators. His fourth and fifth robberies he left these two poems: I’ve labored long and hard for bread, For honor and for riches But on my corns too long you’ve tread, You fine-haired sons-of-bitches. Black Bart, the P o 8
The robberies spanned 8 years, who more ‘dabbled’ in robbing stagecoaches for extra income. He was quoted saying, “I took only what was needed when it was needed.” Ironically James B. Hume, chief investigator for Wells Fargo, was on the stagecoach for the first and last robberies. Black Bart left the scene with a grazing shot across his forehead. He also left behind a number of personal items. The most
important was Bart’s handkerchief, full of buckshot, which bore the laundry mark. Hume had an operative track down, over most of California, the laundry in San Francisco where Black Bart’s identity was finally revealed as Charles Bolton. 18 days after his last robbery, one Charles Boles, aka Charles Bolton, aka Black Bart was captured, tried, convicted and sentenced in San Andreas and on November 21, 1883, Black Bart entered San Quentin prison. He was released from San Quentin on January 23, 1888, after serving 4 years of a 6 year sentence, for good behavior. He was hounded by reporters upon release and disappeared from a San Francisco hotel. He was last reported to be living in a hotel some time thereafter. There had been a series of stage robberies with the highwayman ‘resembling the figure’ of Black Bart. Two Wells Fargo detectives tracked him down and searched his room at the hotel. They found his valise full of crackers, canned meats, sugar and coffee, just the sort of thing someone going ‘on the road’ might carry. He was never seen again.
W
ells Fargo & Co. was borne out of the
California an event Next Issue:Gold WhoRush, Was Black Bartthat e17
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 wagon train 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 www.wellsfargo.com
To wait the coming morrow, Perhaps success, perhaps defeat
L u m b e r • P l u m b i n g • E l e c t r i c a l • H a rd w a re S u p p l i e s • P a i n t • L aw n & G a rd e n
900 Mono Way • Sonora • CA 95370 • (209) 532-3676 www.sonorachamber.com
Your Only Locally Owned Home Center in Sonora – Supporting the Community We Live in!
www.andyshomecenter.com
The Historic
EXPLORE
Built in 1850 ‘Gunny’ Our Famous Hotel Bear
Gunn House Hotel In the Heart of Historic Downtown Sonora
Don’t miss our famous Innkeeper’s Breakfast– Waffles made to order!
Rooms $79-$115
286 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Reservations (209) 532-3421 www.gunnhousehotel.com 2. In medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon; set aside. 3 In large bowl, combine sugar, oil, 2 teaspoons vanilla and eggs; beat well. 4. Stir in flour mixture; mix well. Stir in carrots, pineapple, and raisins. 5. Fill paper-lined muffin cups ¾ full. Sprinkle sugar and sliced almonds evenly over each muffin. 6. Bake at 350 for approx. 30-40 minutes or until muffins spring back when touched lightly in center. Cool slightly and carefully remove muffins and serve warm or cool.
Gunny’s Christmas Carrot Muffins
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Ingredients 2 ½ cups all purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 cups sugar 1 cup oil 2 teaspoons vanilla 2 eggs 2 cups shredded carrots 1 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, well drained ½ cup raisins 1 5 - 8 oz. bag of sliced almonds Directions 1. Heat oven to 350. Line 12-14 muffin paper baking cups.
Gunny’s French Toast & Waffle Batter
Ingredients 1 cup pancake/waffle mix 2 teaspoons white sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup cold milk 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Directions 1. Preheat waffle iron. In a blender, combine milk, eggs and vanilla and add sugar cinnamon and waffle mix. Blend thoroughly. 2. Spray preheated waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray. Pour mix onto hot waffle iron. Cook until golden brown. Serve hot with plenty of butter and maple syrup, jam, honey or your favorite fruit!
www.exploresonora.com
Gunny’s Yummy Rich Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ingredients I box Ghirardelli ® Triple Chocolate Brownie Mix (or other brownie mix with chocolate chips)
2 eggs ¼ cup oil ¼ cup cold coffee 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries ¼ cup sugar Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350. Prepare 9” round baking pan by lightly greasing or spraying with non-stick cooking spray. 2. Blend coffee, oil and eggs in mixing bowl. Add brownie mix and mix until blended. Stir in raspberries and blend. 3. Spoon batter into prepared 9” round cake pan. Sprinkle ¼ cup sugar over batter. 4. Place in 350 oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Do not over bake. Cool and invert cake onto plate and dust with powdered sugar.
EXPLORE
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www.sonorachamber.com
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THE TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU & EXPLORE
ITS
MEMBER PARTNERS PRESENT
a celebration of our western heritage THE ‘MOVIE STAR’ RAILROAD FEATURING ENGINE NO. 3
R A I LT O W N
CALIFORNIA STATE
1897
HISTORIC PARK
EVENTS ALL YEAR LONG! The FAMILY FUN Experience Opening Day • Memorial Day Weekend July 4th • Singing Rails · Haunted Express Labor Day Weekend · Santa’s Express Engine No 3 Celebration Weekends
Movie Star ENGINE No. 3 RIDES THE RAILS ONCE AGAIN!
Located in Jamestown, California, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to the Historic Jamestown Shops and Roundhouse of the Sierra Railway. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., April through October. From November through March, Park operating hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
11855 5th Ave. • Jamestown, CA 95327
209.984.3953
Visit www.railtown1897.org TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU e
Sonora EXPLORE
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MAGAZINE
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TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU
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Destination
Your Year-Round
short drive, yet a world away— historic small towns, shopping, A gaming, unique dining, boutique wineries, antiques, art galleries, live theatre, golf, skiing and year-round recreation.
Plan Your Getaway Today!
Visitor Information
800.446.1333 www.YosemiteGoldCountry.com Order or download our Visitors Guide
STAY l PLAY l DINE l SHOP l EXPLORE Discover Tuolum ne Coun ty The
Year-Round Playla nd
THE TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU 542 W. Stockton Street • P.O. Box 4020 • Sonora , CA 95370 800.446.1333www.exploresonora.com • Local: 209.533.4420 • www.yosemitegoldcountry.com