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Plumas Buzz An informal account of life, recreation, fun and travel in Plumas County, edited by Plumas County Visitors Bureau staff.

Please send us your stories, questions, comments or photos Plumas Buzz archive 2008 Check out our Awesome Autumn Blog

December 30, 2009

The countdown begins, how are you going to ring in the new year??

There is a bunch of fun things happening around the county, so grab your party hat and noise maker and step out for a good time!

Quincy

Capitol Saloon is hosting Monte Carlo Night from 8pm to 1am. This is a black tie affair with DJ and food. The cost is $15 per person, $20 per couple and includes a 200 chip buy in for pre-sale only. You can purchase pre-sale tickets at Body & Soul, Classic Image and Capitol Saloon. Proceeds benefit FRC Rodeo Team.

Tipsy Gypsy Ball at the Quincy Memorial Hall- Live music by The Bourgeois Gypsies and friends. The costume ball includes gypsy dancers, fortune telling, contests, prizes, and more. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. You can purchase pre-sale tickets at Quincy Natural Foods. Proceeds benefit Plumas Community Radio.

Sweet Lorraine's is offering up a dinner special: Jumbo stuffed shrimp, and scrumptious Chilean sea bass. The regular menu will also be served. Call 530-283-5300 for reservations.
 

Cromberg

As part of customer appreciation week, Trattoria Rosa is offering 2 for 1 entrees thru January 2. If you eat at Trattoria Rosa on New Years Eve, you will receive a free ticket to The Alternators Show at Longboards Bar and Grill.


Graeagle

Longboards Bar and Grill is hosting it's 9th annual New Years Eve Celebration, featuring The Alternator's. Cocktails start at 7pm, dining at 8pm and dancing at 10pm. There is a $10 admission charge for the dancing which includes complimentary champagne. The dinner menu $85 per person which includes delicacies as gnocchi with local Sierra Farms lamb ragu and Grana Padano chese. Call 530-836-1111 for reservations. 

Please see our holiday dining page for other New Years Eve dining.

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December 16, 2009

Finally we have snowmobile tours back in Plumas County!!!!

Explore! Sierra Touring Company is offering 2 hour snowmobile tours twice daily. They will begin at 9am and 1pm leaving from Chalet View Lodge and heading up to Smith Peak. For $130.00 for the driver and $60.00 for the passenger, the price includes helmet, goggles and instruction. For more information and booking call: (530) 994-1055 or (530) 927-9743.

 

You can also book through The Chalet View Lodge, and take advantage of their Winter Escape Package. The lodge is offering a one night stay in the Deluxe Terrace Suite, 2 complimentary cocktails, a 60 minute couples massage and a 2 hour snowmobile tour for $329.00. You can also extend your stay for $79.00 each additional night.

 

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December 7, 2009

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

In Plumas County, you can't say we don't have FOUR seasons! It was a big deal for folks in the valley, who woke up today with snow and school closures. Plumas County schools were OPEN, despite the fact that over a foot of snow fell, and more is on its way this afternoon. You see, we're used to this in Plumas County, and the white stuff is even why some people choose to live here!

When the roads and skies get clear, c'mon up and enjoy it! This is a treat to those of us used to waiting until January or February for enough snow to play in. It appears it will not only be a white Christmas in Plumas County, but snowmobilers, snowshoers, skiers and other snow enthusiasts will soon be out to play!

 

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November 30, 2009

Got Christmas Trees?

This past weekend was busy in Plumas County with all of the tree hunters! Families were flocking to the mountains for the perfect evergreen to bring home for the holidays. So, if you are on the ball and have your Christmas Tree tree trimmed and decorated already, send us your photos! We would love to post the photos of your family outing in Plumas County and also the photos of the final result.

 

 

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November 24, 2009

Bundle up for festivities in Chester

Chester is having it's annual Christmas Tree Lighting, merchants open house and holiday light parade this Friday. The festivities begin at 5 pm. There will be plenty of holly and jolly to go around, so bundle up the family for a small town holiday tradition that includes Santa, cookies and warm drinks.

Speaking of the Chester-Lake Almanor area, this sign is placed in the window of Nancy's, a cafe on Peninsula Drive. She is open all year long, unless she is closed. Nancy has fresh soups, sandwiches and daily specials. You can have a cup of coffee or tea and relax with the paper of meet with some friends. She encourages music and hosts weekly open mic nights. You can call her to see what the schedule is for events at  (530) 596-3690.

 

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November 23, 2009

First Annual Quincy Turkey Trot!

Why not burn off some of those Thanksgiving Day calories? Not only will it feel good to participate in this 5k fun run/walk BUT, it is for a really good cause. The Turkey Trot benefits Tru Community, which is a non-profit organization that benefits community members who have seriously ill family members. There will be prizes for the fastest run in each division and also for the silly hat contest. So, put on your silliest of hats and head out to the Feather River College Track on Thanksgiving Morning at 9 am. The race starts at 9:30 am. You can register online at www.active.com under Quincy Turkey Trot.

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November 19, 2009

Twain Christmas Boutique this weekend

With the holidays just around the corner, it is never too early to get in some local shopping. The Twain Christmas Boutique may be just what you need to ease you in to the gift giving spirit. The majority of items showcased at the boutique are hand made by Peggy Peralta. She has crocheted scarves and hats, jewelry and gourd birdhouses. She also will create special orders if you give your request in a timely fashion. With yummy refreshments being served in a homey atmosphere there is no reason not to head to Twain this weekend. Call Peggy for more information at (530)283-0528.

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November 9, 2009

Brrrrr....It is COLD outside. We had to wear gloves this morning! The cars took a little longer to warm up as well. I guess this means that our leaf peeper blog is officially coming to a close after a very successful and COLORFUL Awesome Autumn. Thanks to everyone who contributed fall foliage photos and stories, this made our job super easy because all of the contributions were wonderful. Also, thanks to everyone who logged on to the site to have a gander or to plan a fall color itinerary. We would also like to thank the 402 visitors for stopping by the Visitors Bureau to say hello and share your stories with us!

Graeagle Community Church did its annual tree cutting event on Sunday. Several families headed up to Lakes Basin in search for the perfect holiday tree, and shared a nice potluck lunch together. As you can see, the weather was perfect for this event- a little chilly but the sun was shining! You too, can plan your own tree cutting event! Permits are on sale now thru December 24th.
 

 

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September 28, 2009

Can you believe it's fall already? The Buzz editors have moved to "Awesome Autumn" mode with the oncoming of leaf-peeping season. We'll be blogging on that link nearly every day with reports of fall color as it happens throughout the forest. 

The Buzz will be back sometime in November! Meanwhile, please help us out on the Awesome Autumn page with your fall color reports!

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September 16, 2009

Quincy Farmers Market

Tomorrow night, Thursday, September 17, is the last Farmer's Market at the School District lawn on Main Street. Tommy Miles and Friends will provide the entertainment. So, be sure to get in on the last of the farm fresh veggies and fruits of the season, while enjoying BBQ provided by Southern Accent and visiting with friends and neighbors.

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September 9, 2009

Chester Hosts 24th Annual Street Rod Extravaganza This Weekend

This exciting event will kick off Friday night  with The Almanor Basin Street Party from 5-8pm. On Saturday morning pre-registration will be held from 7-9:30am along with a merchants sponsored continental breakfast in Chester Park. The judging starts at 10am and will be held until noon. The poker walk will begin at 10am, participants can pick up poker cards from 13 merchants in Old Town and West Chester. The poker run will start at 1pm and street rod participants will collect cards at 10 designated stops as they drive the scenic 35 miles around Lake Almanor. Prize awards will be handed out at 3:30pm. Trophy Presentation will be at 4pm. Food will be available at Chest Park from 11am to 4pm at Chester Park.  For more information call the chamber at 530-258-2426.

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September 2, 2009

Joshua Fest Comes To Quincy

Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds welcomes Joshua Fest for the Labor Day Weekend. Joshua Fest is a Christian Inspired Music Festival including bands such as Family Force Five, Everyday Sunday and Kaboose in their multi-artist line-up. Tickets are on sale for Friday- Sunday, September 4-6, 2009. Camping is included with your 3-day pass.
 

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August 28, 2009

Couple Searches Plumas County for Scavenger Hunt Item

Charlene and Jerry Spielvogel from the the East Bay, needed a photo of just "one more item" to complete the list of twenty items required to participate in the Contra Costa Times Photo Scavenger Hunt.  Players had to take photos of each item and turn them in to the newspaper to prove that they had actually found them.

The item they were searching for was a town sign with a population of 100 people or less.  Charlene did a Google search and Plumas County came up with the largest concentration of small towns in the Scavenger Hunts playing area.  Shortly after her search, she called us at the visitors bureau to see what cities we had in the county that would fit the requirements.  We gave her several options, and here is Charlene  below with the "proof" that they found exactly what they were looking for!

                                         

Charlene and Jerry said that after they took the picture, they took some time to take a drive along Highway 70 and really enjoyed the  beautiful scenery.  They promised that they would let us know how they did in the contest.

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August 21, 2009

Portola Railroad Days 2009 - 100 Years of Trains, 100 Years of Service
August 21, 22, 23

This year's event commemorates two historical anniversaries.  The Western Pacific Railroad completed the line through the Feather River Canyon (driving the last spike at the Keddie "Wye") and Portola, having gone through a series of other names, received its current name 100 years ago. 

Gather your family and friends and head on out to Portola for three days of fun and activities beginning Friday, August 21 with a concert by The Gary Richards Project on Center Stage at 4:30 pm, Cowboy Poetry by Tony Argento at 7:00 pm, and music by the Rock Bottom Band starting at 8:30 pm.

Saturday's lineup includes Cowboy Poetry, Dr. Rabi's Medicine show, Bill the Magician, the Wild Things Animal Show, Train Tales and Conductor Calls, the Railroad Days Parade at 11:00 am, food, craft vendors and Monster Truck rides all day on Taylor street. 

Sunday's fun kicks off with a children's fishing derby at 7:00 am at Portola City Park, the Willie Tate Memorial River Run at 9:00 am, a Spike Driving contest at 11:30 am and the Lucky Duck Race at 1:30 pm along with food, music and craft vendors just to name a few of the things you can see and do!

For more information go to www.portolarailroaddays.com. to see a complete listing of each days activities and times.

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August 14, 2009

Check out this hilarious video of 4-H goats at the Plumas-Sierra County Fair, butting heads at feeding time! The fair fun continues through Sunday -- don't forget to check out the fun with farm animals!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGOIX-KgB1M&feature=channel_page

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August 12, 2009

Plumas-Sierra County Fair  Celebrates 150 Years

Relive the Memories, Recapture the Fun is the theme for the fair this year. Traditions such as the famous Indian Taco Stand, The Old Town Beer Gardens, and Stock Car Races, and The Outlaw Rodeo will return, as well as some old historical events, including The Logging Show. The Logging Show will consist of the "Choker Setter Event", "The Double Buck Contest", and "The Bull of The Woods Contest".

Live music will be featured every day of the fair until 11pm and we can't forget 4-H exhibits, the art barn and the quilt show. Children of all ages will be seen and heard laughing and cavorting in the traveling carnival area, munching on cotton candy and corn dogs.

Wristband days for unlimited rides at the carnival are Thursday Noon to Close, Friday and Sunday noon to 6pm. Admission is free Noon until 2pm daily so you can head out and have lunch at the fair.

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August 6, 2009

Exploring Canyon Dam

Seems as though the "Fitness Center" in front of the Canyon Dam Store has been abandoned. Is this because everyone is next door at the Lake Almanor Kayak Rentals? You can rent a single kayak for 1/2 day for just $40 or a full day for $60. The tandem kayak is $60 for 1/2 day and $80 for a full day.

Maybe people are forgoing all exercise in lieu of a Polish Sausage at Canyon Dam Dogs, the new roadside hot dog stand, next to the Post Office, that serves up 6 different kinds of hot dogs, chili, nachos and snow cones. Whatever your pleasure, Canyon Dam, located at the south end of Lake Almanor, is worth the stop. The Canyon Dam Store even sells locally tied flies for fishing.

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August 5, 2009

Rick from Lake Almanor writes to us:

While up at Lake Almanor for the week camping, we rented a see-doo at Majors Boat & See-doo Rental (530-259-2727) on the west shore of Lake Almanor.  What fun!!!!  Visitors can find Majors Outpost down by the water at the marina at Plumas Pines Resort. as you can see, the marina was having a busy day.

 

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August 4, 2009

Gianna from Fair Oaks writes to us:

Last week I spent time with my friend tent camping at the forest service campground on the west side of Lake Almanor.   What a beautiful place to slow down, ride a bike, rest along the lake, and have a campfire at night with s'mores. 

 

Down the road from the campground is a special place to have breakfast out on their deck, Carol’s Café at Prattville. Their French toast with warmed syrup and a fresh cup of coffee is a great way to start the day!!!  I’ll be back soon.

 

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August 3, 2009

Great entertainment in nearby Sierra City

Here's a tip on a great summer night of fun: The Kentucky Mine Museum's "Music at the Mine" concert series in Sierra City (south of Graeagle.)

You can start off touring the tiny town, maybe poking around the gallery and store, or trying out a local restaurant. Or.... just pick up a bottle of wine at the country store and head for the scrumptious barbecue held at the museum before the show. For $15, you can't beat it: great tri-tip and chicken, beans, Cole slaw, garlic bread and corn on the cob! And a pleasant outdoor setting under the pine trees, with a mountain view.

The museum's amphitheater is small and there was plenty of room last Saturday night. The band, No Taboo, played some great blues/soul tunes and had folks soon moving to the dance floor. Bring a blanket or chair pad if you plan on staying in your seat; the seating is on concrete. Concert charge was just $10 per person for over two hours of music.

There are just two more concerts scheduled this season, so check it out! You can get tickets at the door or off the website.

http://www.kentuckymine.org/


 

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July 30, 2009

Sierra Institute's Maidu History of Indian Valley Tour on Saturday, August 1st

Join Farrell Cunningham, Maidu Historian, Traditional Ecologist and one of the few remaining speakers of the Maidu language, on an educational tour around Indian Valley in Plumas County.

*Hear what the Valley was like before European settlement

*Enjoy captivating stories about spiritual wars and creation

*Learn how the Maidu utilized and managed the Valley’s natural resources for hundreds of years

*Visit former Maidu village sites

*Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Indian Valley!

Cost for the tour is $45 per person. Morning refreshments, lunch, snacks, and bus transportation are provided as part of the tour.

The tour will begin at 10:00 am and conclude by 4:00 pm.

Reservations are required. Call 530-284-1022 to register, Local Scholarships are available.

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July 22, 2009

Lake Almanor's 6th Annual Art Around The Lake

This weekend Lake Almanor Community Foundation will present the sixth annual Art Around the Lake in partnership with the Plumas Arts Council and the Feather River Fine Arts Association on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. Proceeds from the event will benefit the music and arts programs in the Chester, Westwood and Greenville schools.
The Foundation takes pride in presenting the talented and generous artists you will see in action at the various sites around the lake. Participating artists have opened their studios and donated fine art to be auctioned Friday evening. A reception will be held in conjunction with the auction and all Art Around the Lake ticket holders are invited to attend. For more information see www.artaroundthelake.org. or call Plumas Arts at (530) 283-3402

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July 17, 2009

Gold Discovery Days / 50th Anniversary of Plumas-Eureka State Park

2009 marks the 50th anniversary of Plumas-Eureka State Park in Johnsville.  By the early 1950s, the area around Johnsville had attracted the attention of State Park officials, who praised its "scenic granduer" and called it "one of the best (sites) they had ever seen for recreation purposes of all kinds." Fifty years after it was founded, the park retains the attributes that made it worthy of park status in the first place: gorgeous scenery, outstanding recreation and historical significance. 

The gala weekend celebration will include history relived, the ever-popular Rotary Pancake Breakfast on Sunday from 8 am to 11 am, and live music by Code Bluegrass.  Enjoy the old favorites like the blacksmith shop demonstrations, tours of the Moriarty House, the Stamp Mill, hikes, gold panning, folk dancers, baked goods, weaving, food, and much more!  Bring your family and friends out for two days of good old fashioned fun!  10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19.

        

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July 9, 2009

The Plumas County Museum is open on Saturdays again!

The Plumas County Museum in Quincy, located at 500 Jackson Street, will be open on Saturday's again, beginning this week.  Be sure to stop in and visit the next time you are in town.  This is one of the most comprehensive and well-presented museums in rural California. You can see displays depicting home life, agriculture, logging and railroad history and one of the world's finest collections of Maidu baskets along with a hands-on replica of a Maidu hut. 

The historic Variel home is also available for tours. The museum's new hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm (closed on Sunday and Monday).  You can contact the museum at (530) 283-6320 for more information.

 

 

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July 8, 2009

Solar Cook-Off at Taylorsville Campground, Friday and Saturday

Every year in July the Solar Cook-Off event in Taylorsville is Plumas County's "group hug" for the year. Not only does it draw many of the residents of Plumas County but also visitors from out of town. They come for the music and the food, but most of all for the over all feeling of a community that is proud to get together and feast on solar oven cooked food, and dance to solar powered music all day while being surrounded by their favorite people. No matter where you turn, you are bound to see a smiling face and witness a hug or a firm handshake between friends.

While the children are running around and eating snow cones or ice cream, their parents are lounging in their lawn chairs visiting with friends and listening to the many bands that are taking the stage all day long. There is a creek adjacent the campground where folks can get cooled off and still hear the music. There are also several arts and crafts vendors if you feel like doing some early Christmas shopping. From jewelry to handbags, pretty clothing to solar ovens, there is plenty of browsing to be done.

Music Schedule for Friday Night:
7:00: Now and Then Trio
7:45: The DeVilles
8:30: Blue Haven
9:30: Drumming Extravaganza with Cameron Tummel

Music Schedule for Saturday:
10:00: Melissa Ruth and Johnny Leal
10:30: Penny & Dude
11:00: Whiskey Hawlers
11:45: The Hell Busters
12:30: MudBone
1:15: BLT's
2:00: Soldiers of Hi Fi
2:45: Bourgeois Gypsies
3:30: Guitar Woody
4:30: Rick Hammond
5:30: Jeff Pershing
6:30: Drum Circle

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July 2, 2009

4th of July Weekend Festivities Galore!!

With the holiday weekend approaching it's hard to decide what to do when there is so many fun things to choose from! From fireworks to music festivals you are not going to be without something that fits your fancy! Have a safe and fun holiday weekend!!

 

 

 

Lake Almanor/Chester Area on July 4:
Pancake Breakfast: 7-11 am, Chester Memorial Hall and Lake Almanor Elks Lodge
Wine Walk: 8am-3pm, Main St., Chester
Elk's BBQ: 9am - 3pm, Elks Lodge, Chester
Arts and Crafts Show: 10am-3pm, Chester Park
Clampers BBQ: 10am, Main St., Old Town Chester
Fireman's BBQ: 10am-2pm, corner of Main and Feather River Dr
70th Annual Parade: 11am, Main St.,  Chester
Lion's Club BBQ: 11:30am- 2pm, Chester Park
The Great Feather River Duck Race: 2pm, Starts at Chester Park
Momboosa Music Festival: 10am-10pm, Chester Meadow
Fireworks: 9pm off the tip of the Lake Almanor Peninsula

Indian Valley July 1-5:
Silver Buckle Rodeo: July 1-4, Taylorsville Rodeo Grounds
Cowboy Dance: July 3, 8pm to Midnight, DJ Matt McCutcheon
Cowboy Dance: July 4, 8pm to Midnight, Soldiers Of Hi Fi
Gem & Mineral Show: Indian Valley Museum, July 4 & 5, 11am-4pm

Central Plumas July 2-4:
High Sierra Music Festival: July 2-5, Plumas-Sierra Fairgrounds
Farmers Market: July 2, Church and Main St, Quincy, 5pm-Dusk
4th of July Parade: Meadow Valley, 11am, Meadow Valley Fire Dept.

Eastern Plumas July 3-5:
Fireworks, Food & Fun: July 3, 4-9pm fireworks at 9:30pm, Graeagle Pond
Civil War Battle: July 3 at 8pm, July 4 at 11am and 3pm, Graeagle Field
BBQ & Street Dance: July 4,  6-11pm, Blairsden
Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides: 10am-12pm, July 4 and July 5 at Graeagle Mill Pond
Pancake Breakfast: July 5th, Graeagle Fire Hall, 8-11am
 

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June 29, 2009

Gianna from Fair Oaks, writes to us:

Dear Plumas Buzz:  

The first-time I sat at the Lassen Soda Fountain counter in Chester and had my first hot-fudge sundae was 1990; I was only five years old.  I have been coming back every since while on vacation at Lake Almanor.    It is a special place, not very many of these old fashion soda shops around anymore.   Another great “find” in beautiful Plumas County!

 

 

 

 

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June 23, 2009

John Cramer from Lodi, writes to us:

June 22, 2009

Just Horsin' Around

Here's something you don't see everyday! A couple of horses tied up to the hitching post while their owners enjoy a beverage in the local saloon!

Willie (left) and Paige (right) carried their owners Sandy and Mark down to the Knotty Pine Tavern in downtown Graeagle on Sunday. The geldings are apparently getting geared up to ride in Graeagle 4th of July parade (on Sunday, July 5).  It was a scene straight out of the Old West!

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June 17, 2009

Taste of Mohawk

Eastern Plumas county has an abundance of quality restaurants and fine chefs to keep both locals and visitors well fed and happy.  Come on out to Graeagle on Saturday, June 20th to have the opportunity to preview some of these delights.  Big Springs Garden, Bonta Street Bistro, Graeagle Mill Works, Graeagle Meadows, Graeagle Outpost, Grizzly Grill, Gumbas V, Iron Door, Lodge at Whitehawk, Lena's Cantina, Log Cabin, Longboards Bar & Grill, Mt. Tomba Inn and Trattoria Rosa will serve up some of their best fare from 1 - 4 pm.  The downtown park in Graeagle will be full of food, spirits, and live music! 

For more information and tickets, call the Mohawk Community Resource Center at (530) 836-0446, located at the corner of Highways 89 and 70.

 

 

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June 15, 2009

Star Tour Wednesday Night, June 17th

Dennis Cokor will host another one of his famous star tours on Wednesday night. Come down to The Quincy High School Tennis Court, on Quincy Junction Rd. from 8pm to 10pm, bring your jacket, and your eyes, or for better viewing, a telescope, and be prepared to be dazzled by a variety of constellations.

Wednesday evening's Center of attraction will be the Leo Constellation, with many other sites to behold, such as, Saturn, Vega Rising, Virgo, and M44 The Beehive Cluster in Cancer.

Dennis will also give a special computer presentation of The Infinite Cosmos: Saturn, Lord Of The Rings.

For more information or questions, call Dennis at (530)283-3382

 

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June 10, 2009

Gianna From Fair Oaks writes to us:

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June 9, 2009

Richard McCutcheon of Indian Valley sends us some great photos of wild flowers and wild life in the Indian Valley Area.

 

 

Brown Bear

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bull Snake

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caterpillars

 

 

 

 

 

See our Bloom Blog for the Wild Flower Photos!

 

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June 8, 2009

Rick from Lake Almanor Writes to us:

" In a previous posting on your "Plumas Buzz", May 14th, The San Francisco Chronicle mentioned in their column that Sardine Lake, at the south end of Lakes Basin near Graeagle, was one of the "prettiest" lakes in the state. I had heard this before, so, I drove over to the Gold Lakes Basin to take a look."

"Over the last 15 years, I have been on a lot of high mountain hikes, and I must say that I agree with The Chronicle, it is one of the "prettiest" lakes in the state."

 

 

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June 2, 2009

Petal Peeping by ATV in Sierra Valley

The flowers are really blooming around Sierra Valley now, according to Jay Read of High Sierra ATV Tours. The Reno Gazette Journal featured a story on these tours and though it was a slightly late bloom season, the area has exploded in color. Flowers such as Mules Ear, paintbrush (Applegate's and Indian), phlox, bitter brush, snow plants, and lupine are flourishing.

Jay Read and his wife Lisa run their ATV business in Chilcoot,  just 30 miles from Reno on HWY 70. They host private tours, corporate tours and individual tours. "Our goal is for everyone to have a good time and see the area", says Lisa Read. Be sure to read the story to get the full scoop and see some pictures!

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May 29, 2009

What's the best part about Plumas County? The AIR and the WATER, according to two Bay Area visitors who stopped in today to rave about their wildflower watching trip around the county. Here's what they had to say: "The pine-scented air here is the freshest anywhere....even  better than Yosemite and Lake Tahoe."

For more details about their adventures, which included a thunderstorm, a rattlesnake and a great Italian dinner, check out the Bloom Blog!

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May 27, 2009

Sand Pond fun on Memorial Day Weekend

Suzi Brakken and Amy Koenig of Graeagle,  ventured out with kids to the Sand Pond in the Lakes Basin Area this past weekend for some fun in the sun. The children laughed and cavorted in the water and played on the beach.

After swimming, they all decided to take a nice walk on the boarded nature trail near the pond. Although there were not any flowers blooming yet, it will only be a matter of time before Mother Nature runs her course. There was still snow on the ground at Gold Lake, but lower elevation trails were snow free.

 

 

 

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May 21, 2009

Owl Prowl Friday Night

If you are a night owl and are looking for something fun to do on Friday night, Plumas Audubon Society is hosting an owl expedition lead by David Arsenault. The tour is scheduled to leave the Quincy Library at 7pm and is scheduled to wind up around midnight. You don't have to attend the whole tour, you can fly the coop whenever you like.

Possible owl sightings include:
Barn Owl, Northern Pygmy Owl, California Spotted Owl, Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, Virginia Rail and Sora  Northern Saw- whet Owl and the Flammulated Owl.

This should be a real hoot!  Don't forget to dress warm and wear your walking shoes!!

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May 20, 2009

Tour de Manure!

Hey all you cycling enthusiasts, here is a brand new cycling event you will not want to miss!  And yes, the name of the event is the Tour de Manure.  Come on out to Sierraville on Saturday, June 13 for the first ever Sierra Valley Metric Century organized bicycle ride benefitting the Sierraville Volunteer Fire Department. 

Ride Director Doug Read and the gang have designed a wonderful course that takes advantage of Sierra Valley's wide views and colorful birdlife.  You can ride the 62-mile metric century route up the west side and into the center of the valley, or follow a 30-mile route along the undulating Highway 49 on the valley's east side.  A finish-line party at the Sierraville firehouse will feature live music and great food provided by Los Dos Hermanos and The Round-up Cafe.

You can register online with a credit card at www.active.com or you can go to www.sierravillefireandrescue.com  for more information and a link to the active.com registration page.  The race starts at the Sierraville firehouse between 8 and 9 a.m.  Just go to Sierraville and follow the signs!

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May 14, 2009

Want a full lake for Memorial Weekend?

The San Francisco Chronicle today touted Plumas County's Antelope Lake and Lake Almanor as FULL lakes for campers to visit on Memorial Day weekend!

The esteemed outdoors columnist Tom Steinstra reported both those lakes and surrounding campgrounds "couldn't be better" for lake-based camping, as opposed to lower elevation lakes that are looking mighty dry due to drought conditions. And many higher-level lakes are still inaccessible due to snow.

Lake Almanor is reportedly 88 percent full, making it the "fullest" lake mentioned in Steinstra's list. He listed Lake Davis (61 percent full) and Frenchman Lake (54 percent full) as "fair to middlin'"

The Bucks Lake and Lakes Basin Recreation Areas were listed by Steinstra as "wildcard" areas, for possible snow, but we're here to tell you that those camping areas ARE INDEED OPEN!

Sardine Lake, at the south end of Lakes Basin near Graeagle,  also was mentioned in the column as one of the "prettiest" lakes in the state.

 

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May 14, 2009
 

Feather River College Hosts Round Two of Nor-Cal Super Regional Baseball Tournament

Friday, May 15

Game #1 #4 San Mateo Vs. #9 Delta 11:30am

Game #2 #3 Feather River Vs. #12 Sierra 4:00pm

Saturday and Sunday game times to be announced.  Games will be played at the Feather River College baseball field at 570 Golden Eagle Avenue in Quincy.

Contact Feather River College at (530) 283-0202 for more information.

GO FEATHER RIVER EAGLES!!!!!

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May 12, 2009

Indian Valley Valley-Wide Yard Sale

This Saturday, May 16, 22 sites will participate in the valley wide yard sale. This is an annual event and widely talked about. So if you are in the area, and yard sales are a passion of yours, this is the event for you!!
With 22 different sites, you are bound to find a treasure or two (possibly more) awaiting you!!

 

 

 

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May 8, 2009

Plumas Audubon 20th Anniversary Celebration

Come on out to the Maddalena Ranch on Saturday, May 9th for birding with Mellouise Curry at 8:00 am, botanizing with Bill and Nancy Harnach at 10:00 am, and a 20th anniversary celebration and trail dedication at noon.  Bring a lunch, a chair and a canoe if you've got one!  Don't forget to put on some sunscreen, bring your binoculars, camera and a hat, too.  The weather forecast for Beckwourth is a sunny 73 degrees!  Contact Darrel Jury for info at (530) 283-2939.

Mellouise Curry was recently out at the Maddalena Ranch and saw: Western Meadowlark, Brewer's Blackbird, Cinnamon Teal, Willet, Mallard, Gadwall, Canada Geese, Western Grebe, Pie-billed Grebe, American White Pelican, Red-winged Blackbird, Yellow-headed Blackbird, American Coot, Turkey Vulture, American Crow, Osprey and Sandhill Cranes.

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May 6, 2009

So we posted two of the many You Tube videos of Steam Train UP #844 you can check them both out or see this one:

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May 6, 2009

Mothers Day Festivities Happening all Over Plumas County

Forget sending flowers! Bring your mom to Plumas County for wildflower viewing and for a wonderful Champagne Brunch. There are a variety of activities happening for Mothers Day.

Greenhorn Ranch is hosting a Mothers Day Lunch and Horseback Ride, Longboards Bar and Grill in Blairsden, is opening for brunch that is featuring Crab Cake Sliders!

St. Bernard Lodge near Chester is hosting a bottomless champagne  brunch with Eggs Benedict, Waffles and Cheese Blintzes among the items on their buffet menu.

 

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May 5, 2009

Feliz Cinco De Mayo!!!

For the residents in Taylorsville, and for future visitors to the area, we have some great news for you!!! The Grizzly Bite Cafe is open! To celebrate, they are cooking up a special Cinco De Mayo Feast that includes, Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos and Mexican Chocolate Cheesecake. You best make a reservation, because we hear that it is filling up fast! They are also hosting a Mother's Day Brunch on Sunday, May 10th. The menu boasts Eggs Benedict and an Asparagus Tart. Call for reservations at (530)284-1010.

Be sure to stop in and sample goodies from their daily menu!! Regular hours begin May 15 and are as follows:
Friday: 11am to 2:30pm and 5pm to 9pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8am to 2:30pm
 

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May 2, 2009

"The Northern Arrives"
 

 "The Northern" steam train # 844 made its way up the Feather River Canyon and stopped at the Keddie Wye for an hour for the Golden Spike ceremony. Several rail fans who stopped in at the Visitors Bureau office afterwards and witnessed this historic event, told us that "there were people everywhere, some even perched on top of rocks at the Wye to get a photo of the famous engine".   We hope there weren't any casualties!

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April 30, 2009

Steam Train Coming Through Feather River Canyon Saturday

The world famous Union Pacific Steam Train #844, also known as "The Northern" will leave Oroville at 8:00 am on Saturday, May 2 and is scheduled to stop at the Keddie for one hour between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm.

The Steam engine is scheduled be at The Portola Railroad Museum by 3:00 pm. So, for all of you train enthusiasts out there, be sure to grab your cameras and your families and head to one of these Plumas County destinations for a rare glimpse of this Steam Engine.

If you get some good shots, send them in to us and we will share them on our Blog!!!

You can keep updated on Engine #844's progress and itinerary and and you can also follow the engine on Twitter.

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April 23, 2009

Streams Open For Fishing Saturday

At last, stream fishing season is here! This Saturday,
April 25,  Plumas County will be the place to be on opening day. Bring the family and your fishing poles and enjoy the High Sierra in all it's glory.  Be sure to have your fishing license! Children under 16 years of age do not need a license to fish.

If you head in to Plumas County to fish The Feather River or one of the many creeks, streams or even lakes, send us some photos and a recap of your time spent here. We love to post your stories and share your photos on our Plumas Buzz and if you catch some wild flowers on camera, we will add them to our Bloom Blog.

Be sure to stop by The Plumas County Visitors Bureau for any guides, maps, and be sure to grab one of our brand new 2009-2010 Visitors Guide. You can also order a guide to be mailed to you.

 

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April 22, 2009

A Day At The Railroad Museum

Rick from Lake Almanor writes to us:

February 6, 2009

The first Downtown Quincy Art Walk of 2009 will take place tonight from 5 to 8 pm.  The works of local artists Beth McMorrow and Micaela Rubalcava will be featured at the Plumas Arts Gallery at the opening reception.  The Studio Gallery, The Eagles Nest, and Epilog Bookstore will also feature exhibits. A special sale at the Studio Gallery from 5 to 8 pm will offer 40% off  selected artwork. 

Recent storm activity has brought some fresh snow to higher elevations just in time for the Snowdrifters Poker Run at Bucks Lake this Saturday.  Breakfast will be served from 7 - 10:30 am at the Bucks Lake Lodge. Registration begins at 8 am and maps will be available that locate the five checkpoints along approximately 50 mile route.  For more information, call (530) 283-2262.

Keep those snow toys out as more snow is expected early next week according to the National Weather Service.

A couple of local organizations will be serving up some good food this Saturday.  Start off the day with a pancake breakfast at the Quincy Masonic Temple from 7 to 10:30 am.  Or head up to Lake Almanor for the Peninsula Fireman's Association annual crab feed beginning at  5 pm.  Space is limited for the crab feed, so get your tickets early at Station #2, or call (530) 259-2306.

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February 2, 2009

What weather we had to end January over the weekend! The warm temperatures sent Plumas County residents to the out-of-doors, with options for both snow and non-snow activities. Up in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, snowmobilers enjoyed plenty of groomed and ungroomed trail, and one popular spot was the ride to Mills Peak lookout. As you can see from the photos, this ride offers nice views of the Sierra Buttes, home to another lookout.

And for those not into snowplay, Saturday was an excellent day for a bike ride around Sierra Valley, as a small group of Quincy riders discovered.  They were not the only bikers on the road --- the Plumas-Sierra Bicycle Club also had a ride that day, complete with a stop at the Blue Moon Bakery in Loyalton for strawberry waffles.  If you are interested in riding in Eastern Plumas, the club's website has maps of favorite routes. You can also join this enthusiastic group of bikers on a ride sometime.

It's not every day that one witnesses a vintage Chinese warplane fly by their window, but that is exactly what happened at the Visitors Bureau this afternoon.  A couple of pilots flew into Gansner Airfield (Quincy) for the day in their Nanchang CJ6 warbird, which was once a trainer for Chinese air force pilots.  You just never know what a day in Plumas County will present!

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January 23, 2009

Yes, it's a little wet outside today in Plumas County, but the precipitation is much needed, and of course, more snow to pursue our various winter activities will be most welcome!

A good time was had by all who went out to participate or be a spectator at the first Longboard races of 2009 this past Sunday.  As predicted there were thrills, chills, and a few spills, and a lot of fun for all! This unique event where the participants wear period clothing, never fails to deliver as you can see from these photos shared by photographer Bill Obernesser  (we would also like note that he took the photos used in the January 15 Buzz).  Thanks, Bill!

 

 

 

 

 

It never hurts to be good at several sports as this longboarder (below right) demonstrates the "slide into homeplate" method of stopping after crossing the finish line.

 

 

 

 

 

And speaking of the longboard races, the Plumas Ski Club's 17th Annual Redstreake Snow Ball is this Saturday night
at Longboards Bar & Grill in Graeagle starting at 7:00 pm ~ Hors d'oeuvers ~ No Host Bar ~ Dancing from 8:30 pm until 12:00 am. The Royale Deuces will be the featured musicians (photo courtesy of Steve Liebenberg).
Tickets $40 in advance $45 at the door. Limited quantity available at Dollard's, Graeagle Store, River Pines Resort, Epilog and Quincy Natural Foods. 
 

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January 21, 2009

Though we all wished there was more snow "up thar in those hills", there is still enough to enjoy various outdoor winter activities.  We continue to receive stories from visitors enjoying their time in Plumas County, such as John Cramer from Lodi who sent the following account of his trip and photo of his daughters:

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January 15, 2009

JANUARY 18th LONGBOARD RACES ARE ON!!!

The Visitors Bureau received the official word this morning that this Sunday's Longboard Races will be held as scheduled.  Expect "chills, thrills, and spills"  says a representative of the  Plumas Ski Club.
This 'not-to-be-missed' event will begin at noon, but folks usually start showing up around 9 am to enjoy a little sledding or skiing before the races. Races are open to spectators and participants, and are held at the Eureka Ski Bowl located within Plumas-Eureka State Park,  approximately 5 miles west of Graeagle. (photos courtesy of Bill Obernesser).
 

 

 

This year, along with the fun, music, and food, you will probably see a camera crew or two among the crowd ... Yes, this unique, historical event continues to attract national attention, most recently in Forbes magazine, the Boston Globe and the Denver Post.

More ways to enjoy winter in Plumas County....

R. Barlupi of Lake Almanor sent us this report and photo of recent outing with his daughter -

"Dear Plumas Buzz: Lake Almanor is beautiful during the winter, especially at Almanor, on the west side of the lake.  Since the Forest Service campground is closed, the cabins boarded up for the winter, and the Plumas Pines Resort & Restaurant closed, the west shore is very tranquil and loaded with a lot snow since it is in the shade most of the day.  Last weekend, my daughter and I spent the day sitting on the jetties and taking a scenic snowshoe trek along the shoreline toward Almanor west subdivision.  As you can see, we brought our chairs, camera, very hot coffee mixed with chocolate and enjoyed our mochas, sunshine and fun in the snow."

For those wanting to do a little snowmobiling this weekend, check out the update on groomed trails from the Lassen National Forest office.

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January 7, 2009

Thanks to a snowy December, snowmobilers are having some early season fun in Plumas County for the first time in years!
There are hundreds of miles of groomed trails and numerous designated staging areas throughout the Plumas National Forest,  as well as many more miles of ungroomed, but marked routes.  Detailed route maps are available through Plumas National Forest (530) 283-2050,  Lassen National Forest (530) 258-2141, or  the Plumas County Visitors Bureau (800) 326-2247.  For those who may have rented snowmobile equipment in the past, Majors' Outpost at Lake Almanor will NOT be offering rentals or tours this season.

Here's a shot of some off-trail venturing in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area...one of many hot spots for snowmobilers. We expect the action is the same at Bucks, La Porte, Almanor, Davis and other popular locations, and are hoping those sledders will send along some action photos like this one!

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