The Northern Mariposa County History Center’s grand re-opening reception, on Feb. 6 drew supporters from near and far. A variety of tasty hors d’oeuvres, from sushi and sandwiches, platters of cheeses, veggies and all sorts of other goodies topped off by a cake featuring Whistlin’ Billy were consumed by the hungry crowd.

A variety of wines, including some great zinfandels, merlots and cabernets from two local Mariposa vineyards, Mount Bullion and Silver Fox, as well as a number of varieties of boutique varieties donated by Cooper Wineries in Amador County and several Gallo varieties donated by Jerry Lyman were sampled. Each guest was given his own etched wine glass as a souvenir.

The Haigh Family display drew a number of folks who had their own personal stories and reminisces, such as a cowman recalling how Mrs. Haigh used to bring out lemonade when he drove his cattle by their spread each spring. The museum is now open its regular Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. schedule.

The raffle items were donated by local artists including Bob Jobe and Maryann Kingman, as well as by merchants including the Greely Hill Market, Darlene Phillips of Needful Things, Bonnie Sanford of a "Farm Girl's Place", Sherri Langley of Black Oak Casino, Sierra Flowers, and several individuals including Merlin and Mimi Jones, Pam Henderson, Marilyn Mason and Dale Silverman. Chefs included Gayle Baker, Bob and Pat Bradbury, Susan Bramson, Harter and Virginia Bruch, Lucy Gill, Sharon Coolidge, Pam Henderson, Maryanna Kingman, Barbara Lyman, Karen Morse and Gail Tyler. Dale Silverman donated the 30th anniversary cake which was baked by Jerry Sears.

Junior Docent Chloe Mead was the day’s youngest hostess, who traveled from Delhi in order to attend.