If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

November 18 and ongoing - Expressive Oil Painting, published by North Light Books, is loaded with big, colorful images, but it's not about the author. It is about how you can paint better paintings - how you can express your deepest feelings for Nature. Local artist George Durkee's new book is complete, published and ready for you to purchase for yourself or someone you know.  You can read about it and order it online at Amazon or purchase signed copies directly from the author at the Art Gallery in Murphys.  Visit the website at www.gallerymurphys.com for more information.

November 18 and ongoing - Murphys Nursery is accepting pre-orders for Silvertip Christmas Trees.  They are the only local place offering these locally and sustainably grown and harvested trees.  They obtain them directly from the growers so the trees are always fresh.  Silvertips are very symmetrical and have open spaces between their widely spaced branches making them perfect for decorating. Quantities will be limited so place your order now at 728-3220.

November 18 and ongoing -Barbara Garvin Exhibit at the Harbinger Gallery - The Harbinger Gallery in Murphys is proud to announce a solo exhibit featuring new work from Murphys fine artist Barbara R. Garvin.  The show will be open through December 2, 2009. Please stop by the gallery's new location, 448-B Main Street, upstairs from Sierra Nevada Adventure Company and next door to the Spice Tin. The entrance is in the rear of the building, twenty paces up Algiers Street.   Please visit www.harbingergallery.net to view B.R. Garvin's catalogue or stop in the gallery. The exhibit will run through December 2, 2009. Or call 209-795-5957 for more information.

November 18 and ongoing - Alchemy Restaurant - "If you haven't been in to Alchemy lately, come check out some of the exciting changes!  We have fresh paint; new lighting and fans; an incredible new brass beer tower with 12 draft beers, most never before seen in Murphys.  Soon to come:  new, larger tables and chairs; a giant LED TV; extended late-night hours (8 pm - 10 or 11 pm) with a new bar menu.  This is a new, improved Alchemy that you will definitely want to check out!"

November 21, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old TimersMuseum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm that there will be a walking tour (always a good idea) or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

November 21, 2009 - Tanner Vineyards Wine & Cooking Series - Please join us as we kick off our Tanner Vineyards Wine & Cooking series!  Enjoy our "Cuisine of Tuscany" wine and cooking class, Saturday, Nov 21st at 4:40 pm. $50 per person, $40 wine club members, paid in advance.  Cuisine of Spain, Provence and Tuscany, Sausage and Soup classes coming soon with more dates to be announced!  Please call 209.728-8229 for reservations and additional information.

November 21, 2009 - Festival of Teas. - Soroptimist International of Calaveras County (SICC) is pleased to present their 12th annual Festival of Teas, featuring a weekend of holiday teas at Ironstone Vineyards on Saturday November 21st at 2:00 p.m.  Visit www.sicalaverascounty.org or call (209) 736-1947 for more information.

November 24, 2009 - Winemakers Night at Alchemy from 4-8pm - Music Nicolas Lefler, Flamenco Guitarist, and wine by Tanner Vineyards- Call 209-728-0700 for additional information or visit the website at www.alchemymarket.com.

November 26th - Thanksgiving Dinner at the Murphys Historic Hotel.  Spend the holidays with us at the Murphys Historic Hotel, let us do the work while you enjoy.  Contact Brian Goss, Banquet Manager at 209-728-3444 ext 416

November 28, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm that there will be a walking tour (always a good idea) or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

November 28, 2009 - Sounds of the Season - A yearly tradition at Ironstone Vineyards to put you in the mood for the holidays.  An evening filled with music and song, with many familiar Christmas favorites performed by local musicians. Audience participation is encouraged with the singing of Christmas Carols.  Starring this year are Joe Hannah and Lon Hannah of the Sons of San Joaquin (www.thesons.com).  This year the concert is earlier than in years past.  A light supper of soups, salads and desserts follow the concert.  Reservations are $35.00 per person, $25 per child.  To make your reservation, please call 209-728-1251. Please wear your classic cowboy attire (1930s to 1960s).

November 28, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm that there will be a walking tour (always a good idea) or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

December 1, 2009 - Winemakers Night at Alchemy from 4-8pm - Music by The Tritone Subs and wine by Domaine Becquet- Call 209-728-0700 for additional information or visit the website at www.alchemymarket.com

December 4, 2009 - Murphys Open House from 5-8 pm, Parade at 6 pm.  Join Murphys shopkeepers downtown as they host an evening of wine, shopping and holiday goodies - once again Santa and Mrs Claus will be at the Native Sons, chestnuts will be roasting on an open fire at the Spice Tin and Tanner Vineyards will be featuring their now famous 'Holiday Mulled Wine'.  Our beautiful posters are available for purchase at the Spice Tin.

December 4, 2009 - Enjoy the Neo Hipsters Band at the Murphys Historic Hotel from 8:30 to 12:30.  Contact 209-0728-3444 for more information.

December 4, 2009 - Grape Growers Meeting.  The Murphys Hotel hosts the Calaveras Wine Grape Alliance at 9:00 am; please arrive at 8:30 am if you wish to order breakfast.  Join CWA to discuss how we can develop Calaveras County as a Destination Wine Region that honors our unique heritage and casual atmosphere.  Contact 209-728-3444 for more information

December 5, 2009 - Local wineries will continue the festive spirit with their 'Holiday Open House' offering special wine and holiday discounts. We've heard a bottle of Murphys wine makes a great gift!

December 5, 2009 - Chatom Vineyards - Come celebrate the season with us, it's a wonderful chance to sample our award-winning wines paired with gourmet appetizers. Live music and plenty of fun! 5-8pm

December 5, 2009 - Open House at the Barn - We are inviting you to join us at the Barn when we host our 5th Christmas Open House and also Celebrate Bear's 5th birthday from 1-5pm at our location on Pennsylvania Gulch Road.  Please come and join in the festivities, savor some delicious treats and meet up with old friends.  The BARN had grown as an important venue for local artists, and you will see lots of new paintings, photographs, weavings, gourd art, jewelry, as well as our new season displays of candles, chocolate,

wind chimes, soaps, and market baskets.  In addition, from 2:30 - 3:30, Judy Marvin - friend, landlady extraordinaire, and author of some great books on local history will be at the BARN to sign any of the books you might like to buy for yourself or for gifts.

    NOTE for your Christmas shopping: beginning the day after Thanksgiving, the BARN will be open every Friday from 12-5pm through December 18.

What's Happening in Murphys

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

 July 30, 2009 - The Murphys Farmers Market at the Vina Moda Winery, 634 French Gulch Rd., Murphys, Thursdays from 3:30 pm until dusk. For more information, call Katie at 209-728-9112.

July 30, 2009 - Thursday's at the Pit, 5:00 pm at Ironstone.  A reasonably priced summer dinner.  To purchase your tickets call Ironstone, 209-728-1251, ext.  11. Tickets are $25 for a couple, $5 for children under 10 and $10 for a wine club member. For tickets please call, 209-728-1251.

July 30, 2009 - Bear Valley Music Festival - Mimi Fox, solo jazz guitarist, is a world-class, accessible, straight-ahead jazz artist who is both true to the traditions and fresh with new ideas. Mimi has been voted "Rising Star" in Down Beat for the last five consecutive years. Show begins at 7pm. For more information or reservations, call 209-753-2574.

July 31, 2009 - Vineyard Tour & BBQ. For info contact the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance: 209-728-9467 or cwa@goldrush.com. Website: http://www.calaveraswines.org

July 31, 2009 (Through August 8)- Murphys Creek Theatre presents the Merchant of Venice.  Playing in the picturesque amphitheatre at 2690 San Domingo Road, Murphys, "The Merchant of Venice" opens July 2 and plays Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 8. Curtain is at 8 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner and wine, or purchase some from the box office. Tickets cost $15 and are available at murphyscreektheatre.org or at the door. For more information call 728-8422.

July 31, 2009 - Fridays At Alchemy.  Don't forget to check out classic Jazz standards by Matt Cullen every Friday on our patio from 5:30-8.  The music is free, and there's room to dance if you wish.  Call 209-728-0700 for more information.

Route to remember

Hwy 4 Sierra-Nevada drive rich in history, scenery

Just northeast of California's Gold Country, the roadways heading toward Lake Tahoe reveal a wonderland of outdoor scenery and recreational opportunities. Closed to cross-mountain travel in winter, Highway 4 opens in summer to connect with Highway 89, completing a mountain-lover's route to remember.

This route will take you from the well-known Gold Country destination of Angels Camp through the charming town of Murphys, right by Calaveras Big Trees State Park, the recreation-oriented town of Arnold and then up through heavily wooded mountain areas where you'll find Bear Valley Ski Area, the quaint little berg of Markleeville and then another world of recreational possibilities in Hope Valley.

It's a lot to see for a Sunday drive, so the first bit of planning is to set up accommodations along the way. We've enjoyed two different kinds of lodgings in this area - a modern, well-furnished and luxurious vacation home near Arnold, and the simpler, more rustic small cabins offered by Sorensen's Resort in Hope Valley.

The route begins in Angels Camp, in the heart of Gold Country, where the Old West historic downtown is worth spending an hour or two just exploring. One of several Gold Rush towns, there were as many as 4,000 miners who once mined the surface gold, while hardrock mining accounted for even more miners and a series of tunnels all over the area. The downtown area now has a number of quaint shops, a few restaurants and a historical feel that is inescapable.

About 10 miles northeast on Highway 4, you come to Murphys, another historic town known for its art galleries, eclectic shops and Victorian architecture. Today there are 2,000 residents, although on a summer day the tourists no doubt outnumber the locals as travelers find the town the perfect place for a stroll through history. Many Gold Rush era buildings are still in use today, including the Murphys Historic Hotel and Lodge that once hosted General Ulysses S. Grant, Horatio Alger, "Black Bart" and Mark Twain. Completing the picture are the towering Elm trees along Main Street that contribute mightily to the town's ambience.

Another 10 miles up Highway 4 and you reach Arnold, a cluster of businesses just off Highway 4 that is probably best known for the nearby recreational attractions of Calaveras Big Trees State Park and the Bear Valley ski area. It's also home to hundreds of vacation homes that offer excellent proximity to both winter and summer mountain recreational activities.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park is about three miles north of Arnold and, as you might suspect, has a lot of "big trees." These giant Sequoias can reach a height of 325 feet and a diameter of 33 feet and have been around since the time of the dinosaurs. The forest is thick in this part of the mountains with not only the sequoias but a mix of ponderosa pines, sugar pines, incense cedars and white fir.

This state park offers camping but also self-guided trails that take visitors to some of the biggest trees and to the Stanislaus River where you'll find an especially scenic view overlooking the canyon. We're forest-lovers and enjoyed hours in the park - a great place to get your fix of trees, wildlife and natural surroundings.

It also was in this general area that we rented a vacation home for the night from Sierra Vacation Rentals. We stopped in Arnold to pick up our keys and map and then drove a few miles into a development of luxury vacation homes, each built among the trees with extensive acreage. While we were just stopping over for the night, it was apparent that these homes would be especially well-suited to the family who would like to spend a week or two in the woods, but leave absolutely none of the comforts of home behind.

Our vacation home had an outdoors feel with liberal use of wood, wide decks, a brick fireplace and a hot tub outdoors under the trees. Snowshoes were on the wall of the living room with a fun fake bear rug in front of the fireplace and a stuffed animal doubling as a deer head with antlers protruding from the bricks above the fireplace. The private owners of this home obviously have a great sense of humor.

They also put a lot of emphasis on games and recreation with a spacious game room, with pool table, adjacent to the open, modern kitchen. The stove top and sink were built right into the island, and there was plenty of room for meal preparation for the largest of families. And there was also plenty of room for the family to sleep - four bedrooms altogether.

Just northeast from Arnold is the Bear Valley Ski Area. While not on a par with Squaw Valley or Heavenly, the Bear Valley ski area is still a prime candidate for a weekend or even an extended skiing vacation. We sampled the area one time and found that Bear Valley offers a surprisingly complete ski vacation experience.

Further up Highway 4, you'll connect with Highway 89, which will take you to the many recreation areas just south of Lake Tahoe. Be sure to stop by the historic town of Markleeville and nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park. Markleeville is the seat of Alpine County, the least populated county in California and, although tiny, this town is a fun stroll - especially if you enjoy historic buildings. The state park is a few miles out of town and offers a hot springs pool where adults can enjoy the effects of a soak in hot mineral water. The water is 104 degrees, but nearby you can also take a plunge into cooler water in a large swimming pool.

It's not too much further to another place where we have found the accmmodations extra-special - Sorensen's Resort. Out here where the mountains are high and the stress is low, Sorensen's Resort sells what owner John Brissenden describes as "the magic of the surrounding wilderness area." In fact, this wilderness is like staying in a national park without the bumper-to-bumper RVs. A network of trails and lakes are just minutes away in any direction, with the Carson mountain range always close at hand, just waiting to provide the perfect backdrop for your next family photo.

Just in case you big-city types suffer serious withdrawal, South Lake Tahoe is just a short scenic drive away - 16 miles to be precise. You can pop into town, get a fix of glitz at one of the major casinos and be back just in time to watch the deer feeding as you enjoy a quite glass of wine and a wilderness sunset.

When we arrived after dark, our cabin was already unlocked, the lights on to welcome us and an incredibly comfortable, fluffy bed was beckoning these weary travelers to a quiet, restful sleep in the woods. After all, that really is the Sorensen's calling card: the "cabin in the woods" experience that just happens to have a few extra amenities - such as gourmet dining.

At daybreak, we got a little better look at Sorensen's, and our awe-inspiring natural surroundings. The only resort in the Hope Valley, Sorensen's was built adjacent to the Carson River, a favorite for anglers. Out back of our cabin, boulders of all sizes were strewn along the sloping mountainside providing a tempting, woodsy area to explore and climb to our heart's content.

We were staying in a simple, but modern log cabin with a loft and bathroom area. The kitchen, complete with microwave, two-burner stove and a small refrigerator, was along one wall of the main cabin area. Nearby, a queen bed was covered with charming home-made quilts. The main room also included a sitting area and a dining area, as well as a free-standing wood stove with plenty of wood at the ready even though it was not needed this warm summer night.

AT A GLANCE

WHERE: his Sierra-Nevada drive starts in Angel's Camp, about 134 miles east of San Francisco and a half-hour drive east from Stockton and Interstate 5 on Highway 4.

WHAT: This stretch of Highway 4 and Highway 89 offers some of California's best mountain scenery and most interesting attractions.

WHEN: This is a summertime trip - Highway 4 is closed east of Bear Valley ski area in winter.

WHY: The drive is a fix for mountain-lovers and history buffs, with ample attractions for both.

HOW: For more information on vacation rentals near Arnold, visit www.sierravacationrentals.com or phone 209-795-4712.

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

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When 40% is not 40%

Mercifully, the first half of the year is over. We are still officially in recession, but there are signs that the economy has bottomed. Last week's employment report reminds us that we are not rebounding as of yet. We need to keep the numbers in perspective. For example, during the first half of the year, the S&P 500 rallied close to 40% from the low hit earlier this year. All told, the S&P 500 dropped almost 60% from the all-time high reached nearly two years ago. This does not mean that the stock market is close to "recovery." In rounded numbers, 60% of 1500 represents a drop of 900 points. An increase of 40% from 640 is only 260 points. This means we have a long way to go.

Expect the same recovery "mathematics" for housing prices. We would not be surprised if the recovery causes housing prices to move up 15% or so from their ultimate lows. However, a move upward of 15% would not come close to the 25% drop we have experienced. Keep in mind that even if prices are down 25%, they are still up 70% from 1985. Of course, these are not inflation adjusted numbers. The point is, we all need to keep statistics in perspective. Losing 400,000 plus jobs in a month represents horrific numbers. But they are much improved from the 741,000 jobs we lost in January. If there is any good news regarding these numbers, it is the fact that rates and oil prices are lower than they were two weeks ago. We can't emphasize enough times that keeping rates low will facilitate the recovery.

The Markets

Rates moved lower in response to weak economic reports in the past week. Freddie Mac announced that 30-year fixed rates averaged 5.32%, down from 5.42% the week before. A year ago 30-year fixed rates were at 6.35%. "Mixed economic reports on the state of the housing market helped hold rates fairly flat this week," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist. "Lower rates are helping to support the housing market," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist.

Home values fell at a monthly rate of 0.6 percent in April, representing the smallest decrease since June 2008, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller® 20-city composite index. In addition, home prices rose in eight of the cities in April."

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have received the green light from their regulator to refi underwater homeowners with loan-to value ratios as high as 125%. The special refi plan that Obama administration officials unveiled in February limited the option to loans with LTV ratios of 80% to 105%. But the 105% LTV limit would not offer any relief for borrowers who have seen the values of their home erode by 15% to 30%. "The higher LTV will allow more homeowners to strengthen their finances by taking advantage of lower rates," Federal Housing Finance Agency director James Lockhart said. Fannie Mae said it would accept delivery of the higher LTV loans starting Sept. 1. A Freddie Mac spokesman said it would start accepting the loans "now." The GSE financing program is only available to borrowers with loans that are owned or guaranteed by Fannie and Freddie. They also have to be current on their payments.

According to an annual state of the nation's housing from Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, once the U.S. emerges from recession, strong demographic trends will restore health to the housing market. The key is echo boomers, the 75 million Americans born between 1979 and 1995. "There will be 5 million more echo boomers than there were boomers when they first started swelling housing markets," said Eric Belsky, executive director of the Joint Center. As a result, household growth during the next 10 years should range between 12.5 million and 14.8 million, according to the report. All those new households mean demand for many new housing units. "This is a powerful, powerful underpinning of future demand," said Belsky. Source: CNN/Money

Housing confidence is up amid increasing evidence that the market is turning around. The Adversity Index from MSNBC.com and Moody's Economy.com reported signs of a turnaround in 33 of the nation's metro areas. While that's less than 10 percent of all metro areas, it's still significant, says economist Andrew Gledhill of Economy.com. Source: MSNBC

Sales of existing homes showed another gain in May, benefiting from favorable affordability conditions and a first-time buyer tax credit, according to the National Association of Realtors ®. May's increase was the first back-to-back monthly gain since September 2005.

" Total housing inventory at the end of May fell 3.5 percent to 3.80 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 9.6-month supply at the current sales pace, down from a 10.1-month supply in April. Source: National Association of Realtors®

The Federal Reserve kept its key rate near zero at their last meeting, and said in a statement that although the U.S. economy remains weak, there are signs of a recovery. The central bank said that the pace of the nation's economic decline is slowing and that household spending is showing signs of stabilizing. Even though this was the first official statement from Fed policymakers to hint at signs of stabilization in the economy, Keith Hembre, chief economist at First American Funds, said Chairman Ben Bernanke and other Fed members have been suggesting signs of improvement in individual speeches in recent months. Source: CNN/Money

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

Activities for Murphys  and Calaveras County

from 3:30 pm until dusk. For more information, call Katie at 209-728-9112.

July 10, 2009 - Fridays At Alchemy.

Cullen every Friday on our patio from 5:30-8. The music is free, and there's room to dance if you

wish. Call 209-728-0700 for more information.

July 10-August 8, 2009 - Murphys Creek Theatre presents the Merchant of Venice at the Cornelia Stevenot

Bassanio. Amused by Shylock's request of 1 pound of flesh if the loan is default, Antonio gladly accepts the money lender's

proposition. Fate turns against him, however, and Shylock comes to claim his due. Unable to intervene on Antonio's behalf,

the distraught Bassanio, finds an advocate in his love, Portia, skilled enough to sway the Venetian council and spare

Antonio's life. Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 pm. Call 209-728-8422 for more information.

July 11, 2009

features art galleries, shops and winery tasting rooms hosting outstanding

local artists every second Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Other local

businesses offer added shopping, eating, wine tasting and festivities.

Contact the MBA for more information or visit www.visitmurphys.com.

July 11, 2009

10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517

to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

July 11, 2009 - Chatom Wine Dinner.

with Chatom Vineyard wines. Live music by Schiraz. Cost is $75 per person (wine club members $65) and begins at 6:00

pm. RSVP Chatom Vineyards 209-736-6500

July 11, 2009 - Pog Mo Thoin release Party, Irish Vineyards- 209-736-1299.

release & discounts. Don't miss this great party. 6:30 pm - 9:30pm $38.00 each - CALL TODAY TO BOOK YOUR SPACE!

July 15, 2009 - Wednesdays at Tanners

Street from 6-7:30 pm. Call 209-728-8229 for information and reservations or visit the website at

www.tannervineyards.com.

July 16, 2009 - The Murphys Farmers Market at the Vina Moda Winery,

from 3:30 pm until dusk. For more information, call Katie at 209-728-9112.

July 16, 2009 - Murphys Classic Car Cruise Nights- 209-728-9971.

Cruise Nights" Thursday Nights on July 16 and August 20 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm in downtown Main St, Murphys. Bring

your Classic Car or just come and hangout and enjoy looking at them. Some restaurants will be open or enjoy ice cream

and DJ music by Decade Music. Also enjoy cash raffle prizes and lots of fun.

July 17, 2009 - Fridays At Alchemy.

Matt Cullen every Friday on our patio from 5:30-8. The music is free, and there's room to

dance if you wish. Call 209-728-0700 for more information.

July 18, 2009

10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517

to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

July 18, 2009 - Murphys Homecoming 60th Anniversary from 10:30am - 4pm.

Join your friends and neighbors in an old fashioned parade and promenade to the Park.

Enjoy a concert performance by the Calaveras Community Band at 11am. The Nostalgia

Luncheon, for Murphys area residents 70 years and older who lived in the area for 10

years or more, will take place at noon. No charge for luncheon but reservations are

required. Sponsored by the Murphys Community Club, call 209-728-8392 for reservations

for luncheon.

July 18, 2009 - Murphys Annual Duck Races

Murphys Volunteer Library. All proceeds benefit the library.

18 July, 2009 - Chatom Vineyards Wine Club Event.

Chatom Vineyards beginning at 5:00 pm. Cost: Free RSVP to Chatom Vineyards at 209-736-6500.

July 18, 2009 - Plan B will be playing at the Camp Connell General Store 4p - 8pm

concert of the season is going to be an excellent one with Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs. McDonald has played with

many renown groups, and Scaggs 1976 record "Silk Degrees" was the music of a generation. All tickets are sold through

www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.ironstonevineyards.com/concert_2009/ for more info!

July 23, 2009 - The Murphys Farmers Market at the Vina Moda Winery,

from 3:30 pm until dusk. For more information, call Katie at 209-728-9112.

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

Activities for Murphys  and Calaveras County

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

June 26, 2009 - Fridays At Alchemy.  Don't forget to check out classic Jazz standards by Matt Cullen every Friday on our patio from 5:30-8.  The music is free, and there's room to dance if you wish.  Call 209-728-0700 for more information.

 June 26 - 28, 2009 - Calaveras Passport Weekend. This exciting weekend kicks off on Friday night at Murphys Community Park, with a "mini-Passport" event, "Taste the World of Calaveras!" The park will be divided into five "regions" of the world, and in each of these regions, you will have the opportunity to taste wines made from grapes with their origins in those "regions" and each region will showcase corresponding cuisine.  Participants are issued a commemorative glass and "passport" that is stamped at each of the wineries visited on Saturday and Sunday, and if completed, entered in drawings for some fun prizes. All participants must be 21 years or older, designated drivers are encouraged and receive free non-alcoholic beverages. For info contact the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance: 209-728-9467 or cwa@goldrush.com. Website: http://www.calaveraswines.org

 June 27, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

July 1, 2009 - Wednesdays at Tanners.  Artisan Cheese Pairings at the Tanner Vineyards Tasting Room at 202 Main Street from 6-7:30 pm.  Call 209-728-8229 for information and reservations or visit the website at www.tannervineyards.com.

July 2, 2009 - The Murphys Farmers Market at the Vina Moda Winery, 634 French Gulch Rd., Murphys, Thursdays from 3:30 pm until dusk. For more information, call Katie at 209-728-9112.

July 2-August 8 - Murphys Creek Theatre presents the Merchant of Venice.  Playing in the picturesque amphitheatre at 2690 San Domingo Road, Murphys, "The Merchant of Venice" opens July 2 and plays Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 8. Curtain is at 8 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner and wine, or purchase some from the box office. Tickets cost $15 and are available at murphyscreektheatre.org or at the door. For more information call 728-8422.

July 3, 2009 - First Friday in the Park from 5:30 - 8 pm.  Fun for the entire family.  Free live entertainment by Swing Gitane. Food provided by local caterers and restaurants and beverages will be available for purchase.  Sponsored by the Calaveras Community Club.  Proceeds go to help maintain the park.

July 3, 2009 - Fridays At Alchemy.  Don't forget to check out classic Jazz standards by Matt Cullen every Friday on our patio from 5:30-8.  The music is free, and there's room to dance if you wish.  Call 209-728-0700 for more information.

July 3, 2009 - Twisted Oak's 6th Anniversary Birthday BBQ Bash.  6:31pm - 9:02pm at 4280 Red Hill Road, Vallecito.  Mark your calendar now for our 6th Anniversary Birthday BBQ Bash on July 3rd 2009. You'll get real pit BBQ (cooked in our, um, real BBQ pit). You'll get salads and rolls and beans and stuff like that. You'll get your choice of all of our currently available (and quite delicious) Twisted Oak wines. We're also opening up the cellar and opening every wine from our library - all the way back to 2002. Check out the list!  The price per person is only $25 for Twisted Few members and their guests, $35 for everyone else.  Call the winery at 209-736-9080 to reserve your tickets.

July 4, 2009 - It is time for our spectacular annual Independence Day Celebration at Ironstone Vineyards.  This event is fun for the whole family with great food to purchase, bounce houses, climbing walls and games throughout the whole grounds.  Live music performances by "Over the Edge" and others.  The fireworks begin at dark and last about 30 minutes.  Gates open at 4:30.  Admission for Adults is$10.00; 6 to 12 yrs is$  5.00; 5 & under is FREE.  No outside food or beverage allowed.  Call 728-1251 for more information.

July 4, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

July 4, 2009 - Join Renewal and Releaf in celebrating the 4^th with Fabulous Fun at Fran's at 7 pm at 984 Crestview Drive.  Hot dogs, burgers and soft drinks or you can bring your own meat to barbeque.  Bring your swimsuit and a chair so you can enjoy live music with Matt Cullen and the Shades of Swing as well as a view of the fireworks at Ironstone starting at dark.  $30 per person ($10 for kids) in advance; 75 person limit.  Parking is limited so please carpool if you can.  RSVP to coffeecupforyou@yahoo.com or 209-728-2669.

July 4, 2009 - Peddlers Faire Parking Lot Sale.  The Arbors "Peddlers Faire" parking lot sale will be held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. It will be located across from the Native Daughters Hall in the parking lot of The Arbors stores on east main street Murphys. Starting in June the faire will be held on the first Saturday of each month through the month of October. Look for great bargains.   Fore more information, please leave a contact number at Villa Mia Antiques 209-728-1600.

July 4, 2009 - Fireworks - Join the fun at the Murphys Historic Hotel for the annual 4th of July celebration. Enjoy some history and enjoy food for the whole family.  Bring your fireworks to the hotel on the 4th and light them in the back on the cement parking lot for a fun show everyone can enjoy.

July 05, 2009 - Hernia Hill at Twisted Oak Winery from 7:00am - 1:00pm at 4280 Red Hill Road, Vallecito.  Join Twisted Oak and On Your Mark Events for the 22nd Annual Hernia Hill 5K, 10K, and Half-Marathon. It's the 22nd running (so to speak) and the second year this event will be at Twisted Oak in Vallecito!  Registration begins at 7AM, the running starts at 8AM, with the Post-Race Barbecue starting at 11:30AM.  For more information, including pre-registration and race fees, visit On Your Mark Events or call 209-795-7832.

 If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

These concerts are up at 5,000 feet in a beautiful location adjacent to the creek in Camp Connell. Camp Connel will Have a concert series this Summer starting with the following: 

Sunday July 5th "Tour Guides" Rock, Latin, and a Little Bit of Country.

Saturday July 18th "Plan B" Classic Rock and Roll

Saturday August 1st "Back to Nowhere"  Rock, Blues to move your shoes.

Saturday August 15th " The Bills"  Local Legends

Sunday, September 6th "Gin House Band"  Classic Rock and Roll

Saturday, September 12th  Ebbetts Pass Scenic Highway Celebration

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

What's Happening in Murphys

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

This Week - June 12 - June 23

June 13, 2009 - Join us in Downtown Murphys for our monthly ARTWALK sponsored by Murphys Business Association. The afternoon features over 20 art galleries, shops and winery tasting rooms hosting outstanding local artists every second Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Supporting businesses will stay open late for added shopping, eating, wine tasting and festivities. Contact the MBA for more information or visit www.visitmurphys.com

 June 13, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

June 13th and ongoing - Stop by Creative Cookware LLC to preview our new line of stainless steel cookware lines from American Kitchen and Marcus Cookware. These wonderful products from frying pans to stock pots are proudly made in the USA and PFOA free.  Enter our drawing by furnishing your name and email address. Your entry gives you a chance to win an American Kitchen 10" fry pan or a Marcus Cookware 2 Qt. covered sauce pan. Our drawing will be held on Sunday July 5.  Creative Cookware LLC samples daily between 11 am and 4 pm award winning gourmet food products from the US, Canada, Europe and South America. Taste why Creative Cookware LLC is known as a "foodie" heaven.  Call 209-728-8303 for more information.

June 13, 2009 - Book Signing at Sustenance Books.  Avery Author Steve Elliot will be signing copies of his new book "The Portable Dad: Fix-it Advice for When Dad's Not Around" from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday June 13.  Steve has been writing for 20 years professionally and being handy for even more. This tidy and funny reference book makes a great graduation or going-away gift, offering practical tips on things young adults will be doing for the first time. Sustenance Books is located at 416 Main St. in Murphys. For more information, visit www.theportabledad.com

June 13, 2009 - Beaux Chevaux Tasting Gallery is hosting Plein on Main. June 13th and 14th.  Artists will be on Main Street painting Historic Downtown Murphys in this friendly competition.  Come sample wine watch art in action and vote on your favorite painting.  Artist reception Sunday June 14th 3-5pm.  Top three winners will be on exhibit for Passport Weekend June 26-28.  Call 209-728-1000 for more information.

June 14, 2009 - You are invited to sit back, relax, and enjoy some beautiful music at a Sunday Afternoon Free Concert with Kim Plowman & Friends (Sally Peters, Caitlin Randall, Paula Crist, Dave Tanner, Tyler Coombs, Patti Hennessee, Dr. Ralph Retherford, Makena Clark, Russ Thomas, Tom Cole, Matt Cullen, Janet Telford, June Diggle, Alan Claassen) on Sunday June 14th 2009 at 3 pm in the Sanctuary of the First Congregational Church of Murphys at Corner of Church & Algiers Street.  Reception to follow.  Contact coffeecupforyou@yahoo.com for more information.

June 14, 2009 - In honor of Flag Day, anyone wearing red, white & blue will get one free domestic beer in the Murphys Historic Saloon.

June 17, 2009 - Wednesdays at Tanners.  Desert and Chocolate Pairing at the Tanner Vineyards Tasting Room at 202 Main Street from 6-7:30 pm.  Call 209-728-8229 for information and reservations or visit the website at www.tannervineyards.com.

June 18^t, 2009 - The Calaveras Visitors Bureau invites you to join them in Discovering Calaveras at Irish Vineyards, 2849 Highway 4, Vallecito at 5:30 pm for socializing, refreshments and tour of the vineyards.  Contact the Visitors Bureau at 209-736-0049 for more information.

June 20, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

June 20, 2009 - Kayak and Canoe Festival.  Sierra Nevada Adventure Company presents the 12th Annual Kayak and Canoe Festival! Paddle dozens of kayaks and canoes, enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch and raffle! Adult tickets are $25 and kids under 13 are $20. Space is limited so call for tickets now. 209-795-9310.

June 20, 2009 - Family Fun Day in Vallecito.  Chase a frog, skip a rock, hike to a volcanic lava cap, explore nature and enjoy a day with your family in the rolling foothills at the Ghiglieri Ranch and Vallecito Vineyards off of Highway 4. Enjoy activities for kids, art, education, fishing, antiques, farm equipment, horseback rides, horticulture, gold panning, vendors, collectables, geology, viticulture, scenic hikes and more! For more information call 209-736-9285.

June 21, 2009 - Murphys Historic Hotel's Fathers Day Dinner. For more info, contact the hotel at 209.728.3444 or via email at dorian@murphyshotel.com

June 23rd - Calaveras County Taxpayers Association Mixer at the Murphys Historic Hotel at 8:30 am - The taxpayers association is a nonpartisan, non profit citizen's advocacy group committed to promoting lower taxes and efficiency in the administration of public business.  Call 209-728-3444 for more information.

Activities in Murphysa and surrounding areas

If you would like to discuss the dynamics of what is happening in the market or would like information and real estate opportunities in the Bear Valley, Arnold, Murphy's, Angels Camp and Copperopolis area please email me at Daniel@BigTreesRealty.com  or go to www.BigTreesRealty.com  call me at 1 209 795-4218 By clicking here you can search like a Realtor.

Enjoy the activities for the coming weeks

June 5, 2009 - Grape Growers Meeting. 

June 5, 2009 - First Friday in the Park from 5:30 - 8 pm.  Fun for the entire family.  Free live entertainment by local musicians. Food provided by local caterers and restaurants and beverages will be available for purchase.  Sponsored by the Calaveras Community Club.  Proceeds go to help maintain the park.

June 6, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

June 6, 2009 - NEXT Upscale Resale will be hosting a flea market in their parking lot on Big Trees Road from 8am-6pm all summer long.  Call Diane at 209-728-2274 for more information or to rent booth space.

June 6, 2009 - Peddlers Faire Parking Lot Sale.  The Arbors "Peddlers Faire" parking lot sale will be held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. It will be located in the parking lot of The Arbors  Shopping Center in Murphys.  Look for great bargains.   For more information, please leave a contact number at Villa Mia Antiques 209-728-1600.

June 6^th, 2009 - Radio Society Meeting at the Murphys Historic Hotel - Calling all radio enthusiasts to a 8:00 am breakfast meeting of the Radio Society.  Ten four good buddy!!  Call 209-728-3444 for more information.

June 7, 2009 - 3rd Annual BBQ Competition at Ironstone Vineyards.  Come experience the flavors of many local chefs and backyard BBQers as they compete in the annual event. There will also be cooking demonstrations throughout the day. For more information call 209-728-1251.

June 10, 2009 - Wines of the World- Calaveras Wine Alliance is back with the Wines of the World.  This month's presenter is Scott Klann, winemaker for Newsom-Harlow and Twisted Oak, and he will be presenting Summer White Wines to enjoy on the patio.  Wines of the World will begin at 5:45pm and will include light appetizers and as always, a discount on dinner entrees from our dining room if you chose to stay for dinner afterwards..   Contact cwa@goldrush.com, 209-728-9467, 866-806-WINE or 209-728-3444 for more information.

June 13, 2009 - Join us in Downtown Murphys for our monthly ARTWALK sponsored by Murphys Business Association. The afternoon features over 20 art galleries, shops and winery tasting rooms hosting outstanding local artists every second Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Supporting businesses will stay open late for added shopping, eating, wine tasting and festivities. Contact the MBA for more information or visit www.visitmurphys.com

 June 13, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

June 13, 2009 - Beaux Chevaux Tasting Gallery is hosting Plein on Main. June 13th and 14th.  Artists will be on Main Street painting Historic Downtown Murphys in this friendly competition.  Come sample wine watch art in action and vote on your favorite painting.  Artist reception Sunday June 14th 3-5pm.  Top three winners will be on exhibit for Passport Weekend June 26-28.  Call 209-728-2157 for more information.

June 14, 2009 - You are invited to sit back, relax, and enjoy some beautiful music at a Sunday Afternoon Free Concert with Kim Plowman & Friends  at 3 pm in the Sanctuary of the First Congregational Church of Murphys at Corner of Church & Algiers Street.  Reception to follow.  Contact coffeecupforyou@yahoo.com for more information.

 June 14, 2009 - In honor of Flag Day, anyone wearing red, white & blue will get one free domestic beer in the Murphys Historic Saloon.

June 20, 2009 - Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Murphys are available at no charge on Saturday mornings at 10am leaving from the Old Timers Museum across from the Murphys Hotel. Please contact Bob Buchanan at 209-728-3517 to confirm dates and times or to set up a tour for a group of 12 or more.

June 20, 2009 - Kayak and Canoe Festival.  Sierra Nevada Adventure Company presents the 12th Annual Kayak and Canoe Festival! Paddle dozens of kayaks and canoes, enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch and raffle! Adult tickets are $25 and kids under 13 are $20. Space is limited so call for tickets now. 209-795-9310.

June 20, 2009 - Family Fun Day in Vallecito.  Chase a frog, skip a rock, hike to a volcanic lava cap, explore nature and enjoy a day with your family in the rolling foothills at the Ghiglieri Ranch and Vallecito Vineyards off of Highway 4. Enjoy activities for kids, art, education, fishing, antiques, farm equipment, horseback rides, horticulture, gold panning, vendors, collectables, geology, viticulture, scenic hikes and more! For more information call 209-736-9285.