InnSide our Placerville Bed and Breakfast Inn - The Albert Shafsky House B&B

Interesting: take children to an inn?

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:21:00 +0000

Many people associate inns with antiques and peace & quiet, but there is certainly no "rule" about this. Our policy at the Albert Shafsky House B&B is that only 2 persons are allowed in the room overnight....so if you want to bring your daughter or son, and that means there are now 4 in your party...you would need to rent 2 of our rooms. That is certainly fine to do, and if you are bringing your son or daughter as a single traveler, we would be delighted to have the 2 of you stay with us....

Here is the article in the paper that prompted me to post this....

Travel Q & A: Why are children not generally welcomed at bed-and-breakfast inns?

Article Launched: 06/23/2008 11:38:39 AM PDT in the San Jose Mercury News.

Why are children not generally welcomed at bed-and-breakfast inns? I would like to understand the rationale behind this rule. And it would be wonderful if you could write about inns that are kid-friendly.
- Kim Nguyen, San Jose Imagine all the couples sitting at B&B breakfast tables right now, reading this and choking on their freshly baked orange-currant scones at the very prospect of a rug-rat invasion!
But before banishing you and your little darlings to a campground, we decided to check with the California Association of Bed & Breakfast Inns for a little history and a policy update.
"Historically, B&Bs have been associated with romantic getaways and offer quiet, quaint retreats from the hustle-bustle of life," said Stacy Rollo, spokeswoman for the California association. "Many inns still cater to this customer and want to be known as a quiet haven."
But, like others in the lodging industry, B&Bs have had to change with the times. Parents increasingly want to take their children along on long-weekend getaways, and many crave a civilized inn experience.
In fact, for the past five years, Rollo says, the industry has heard from more and more families who want to shun the high-rise hotel experience.
So now, 25 percent of the California association's 300 inns are family-friendly.

Madrona Vineyards release party on July 13th from 12-4

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 23:13:00 +0000

Join us up at Madrona Vineyards for the Nebbiolo release party on Sunday, July 13 from noon til 4 pm. Taste the Nebbiolo, their classic Italian wine and enjoy Pasta Putenesa lunch, fresh Olive Oil and top it all off with true Italian gelato! Just $5 per person. For more information call Madrona at 530-644-5948

6 years at the inn....

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:40:00 +0000

This month brings warmer days to Placerville but some very cool events!

Also, we have a new adventure for you to try: balloon rides over Coloma and El Dorado Hills by www.skydrifters.com. Give them a call at 888-FLY-0484.

This month also marks our 6th year here in Placerville at the inn. Thank you so much to all of you for supporting us!

Your Innkeepers, Rita and Stephanie (and Lily!)

Some great events in July and beyond....

We still have water to raft the american if you want to cool off during the hot summer day. Another place to stay cool are the many nearby mines...always an even temp, no matter how warm it is outside.

July 13, 2008 Wine Release * Madrona Vineyards in Apple Hill invites the public to its Nebbiolo 2005 Release party also featuring pasta, cheese pairing, gelato and more. Cost of this Italian event is $5 per person.

July 19, 2008 Third Saturday Art Show * Historic Main Street galleries and merchants in Placerville stay open late for shopping and evening art shows every third Saturday of the month.

July 27, 2008 Summer Wine Fest * At this Farmers' Market style event, Madrona Vineyards in Apple Hill invites the public to sample fresh fruit, veggie and cheeses from local growers and merchants. On site will be BBQ ribs, fresh peaches and the 2006 Zinfandel.

Sunset Sippin at Boeger Winery June 6-August 22, 2008 from 5-8 pm (Excluding Friday, July 4th)

Apple Hill season kicks off Labor Day Weekend

Apple Hill is a wonderful place to get some apple, try some cider, and lots of apple related goodies and do some unique gifts. Running thru Nov, Apple Hill is extremely popular and we book up well in advance for the weekends, so make your reservations soon.

The Apple Hill® Growers Association, located in Camino, CA, was once a fledgling association comprised of 16 original ranches. Today it boasts more than 50 ranches including Christmas tree growers, wineries, a micro brewery, Spa and vineyards. (Apple Hill Growers Office: 530-644-7692).

Come to the Apple Hill® ranches and find a day filled with old-fashioned fun. Plan a picnic on the lush land that surrounds these exciting ranches. Their doors are open and the growers have gone the extra mile to ensure your family a day that they will remember.

The view from Wofford Acres Vineyards, worth a stop on your Apple Hill travels.

More Apple Hill info

Spotlight on: Sequoia

Next time you visit us, be sure to stop by the Sequoia Restaurant just a block from the inn. This restored Victorian mansion serves wonderful cuisine in lovely surroundings.

Occupying the historic Bee-Bennett House, Sequoia offers a variety of seating options. Seating in the Main Dining Room is clustered around the original 1853 fireplace. Through the stunning wisteria blooms of the stained glass window, you can peer into the tree shaded outdoor Patio. From the Entrance Hall, you will find the Main Bar with its historic fireplace, elaborate mirrored back bar, and jeweled leaded glass window. Or, you might be seated on the spacious Veranda. Here on a warm, summer evening you can enjoy a view over the activity of Bee Street just beyond herb garden, as the soft water playing from the fountains mingles with the chatter and bustle of those gathering for their special event in the Empire Ballroom.

Read on...

Some Like It Hot!!!

When the temp goes up, take a break in Placerville. We are usually cooler here in the foothills, but take advantage when we are not! 10% off when the temp goes between 80-85, and 15% off if it goes higher (during your stay in July & August)....Monday-Thursday. New bookings only.

Lily the wonder dog.....in her Hug a Dox harness

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:55:00 +0000

Lily the wonder dog. Some days I wonder how we even ran an inn without an adorable dachshund!

Time to go rafting, winetasting and more....

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:16:00 +0000

The days are warm and the river is flowing, Placerville has a birthday, and wine tasting is always in season.

Time to raft the American River

It is that time of year when Rita and I enjoy a good trip down the South Fork of the American River. Exciting for experienced rafters and a great introduction for first- timers too!

There are many raft companies to take you down the river...give us a call for some suggestions.

Check out one of our favorite outfitters, who offer our guests 10% when you stay with us.

Some upcoming events in Placerville

Friday, June 6 from 6-8 and Saturday, June 7 at the Bennett Gallery on Main Street from 2-7pm is a special exhibit with Ashely Bennett-Stoddard.

Saturday, June 7 bring Coloma Blues Live to Henningsen Lotus Park · Lotus, CA Gates open at 10:00AM · Show Starts at 11:00AM Los Lobos, The Tommy Castro Band, Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, Albert Cummings, and Curtis Salgado. Food, wine, beer, cold drinks available http://www.colomablueslive.com/

June 7, 2008 Placerville Founders' Day & Hwy 50 Wagon Train * Historic Main Street in Placerville closes to traffic in celebration of more than 150 years of Placerville history. Hwy 50 Wagon Train arrives 2pm. Family- oriented event includes living history exhibits, gold panning, fire engine displays, dunk tank, contests, music, wagon rides, working saloon, antique farm equipment, decorated banners display, & more; 2- 6pm, free to the public. Street dance, free, from 7- 10pm, 530-672-3436.

June 28, 2008 Bell Tower Brewfest * Historic Main Street in Placerville closes to traffic for entertainment by the "Delta Wires," "Aftershock," and "The Bayou Boys," 6- 9pm, with samplings of more than 35 micro-brews; tickets $30 from local merchants, through www.placerville-downtown.org or 530-672-3436.

Spotlight on: El Dorado County Historical Museum

Next time you visit us, be sure to stop by the wonderful museum near the Placerville Fairgrounds. Take an informative tour, wander among the historical artifacts, or research a family ancestor. The El Dorado County Historical Museum is the place to learn about the fascinating history of El Dorado County, one of California's original and most historic counties.

Some Like It Hot!!!

When the temp goes up, take a break in Placerville. We are usually cooler here in the foothills, but take advantage when we are not! 10% off when the temp goes between 80-85, and 15% off if it goes higher (during your stay in July & August)....Monday-Thursday. New bookings only.

email: stay@shafsky.com
phone: 530-642-2776
web: http://www.shafsky.com

Recent reviews of the inn

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Wed, 28 May 2008 14:25:00 +0000

These are some of the wonderful comments our fabulous guests have made to us via Tripadvisor this month.

"I think that this is the best option in town, particularly if you are on vacation. Was actually in town for the business. Was looking for nice, quiet place. Good B and B, has only three rooms. Got to meet some interesting people who were staying there. Cookies in the evening were delicious. Unfortunately, had to leave early in the morning both days, so could not partake in the 9AM breakfast, but sounded really good. I had the upper bedroom. Nicely decorated, everything worked well. However, if you need a big desk and other things to do business work, this is not the place. Remember, this is a B and B. The only other thing, which is minor, is that house at corner of the street, and there are cars going by. However, very few cars after 10PM. Will only be problem if you are very sensitive to noise."

We thank you all for your comments and look forward to hosting you again at our Placerville bed and breakfast!

"Very charming old Victorian home. Rita was so kind and served up some wonderful breakfasts! Will stay there again if we are in the area. Felt very comfortable there."

"We just spent three days at the Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville and had a wonderful time! The house is a registered Victorian, beautifully restored inside and out. The innkeepers, Rita & Stephanie, live in the house, which has only three rooms available for lodgers. Our room, the Gandy Dancer, was upstairs and adjacent to a busy road so traffic noise was noticable with the windows open. The room was very clean, the decor nicely done, and the bed quite comfortable and elegant. The breakfasts were really a treat: always delicious and far from ordinary fare. Our favorite part of our stay? Meeting and becoming friends with Rita and Stephanie. They were so welcoming and cordial that we soon felt like we'd known them for years! The bent over backwards to help us with dinner reservations (at wonderful restaurants they suggested) and anything else we needed. We highly recommend this B&B.

Yes, the inn is haunted!

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 23 May 2008 01:01:00 +0000

The team also found this out about our bed and breakfast in Placerville.

Now let's see what Robert's FINDINGS and CONCLUSION are. Did Robert's team capture EVPs or any photographic evidence? Let's see, Robert take it away:

ROBERT REPPERT'S FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION:
ROBERT REPPERT: There was a great amount of voice phenomena in the kitchen area, and also in the area where the piano once was. The voice phenomena was extremely audible on the stairs, and it is clear that you can hear Albert Shafsky say "Christmas party" which was interesting in itself, as he was Jewish. He speaks of a "holiday party" for the children, his and his friends, keeping them upstairs until the downstairs is ready for them to see. He also says the word "Memorial". Both these are clearly heard when he was on the stairs, and in the kitchen his voice is heard as well, as is his wife 'Kitty'. We will do further work on getting those words clearly off our equipment, this is a preliminary finding.

There was a great amount of orb actrivity at the bottom of the stairs where the unseen steps go under the building, as well as in the Albert Shafsky bedroom. Shadows appear in the kitchen, stairs, and living quarters which will need further investigation. As we go through the voice phenomena with a fine tooth comb, it is clear there are other words. This is truly a haunted building.

One more thing. Nancy was able to identify that there was a piano in the living room, and was surprised it was on an outside wall. She was concerned as she plays the piano herself, and knows that all pianos must be kept on an inside wall so as not to allow for moisture. However, she has a clarification for the door next to the piano. On first observation she thought it was opened with shelves inside and perhaps some brass parts for instruments. Upon looking at it closer she is certain at 100% that what she thought was shelves, was WOOD PILED UP SIDEWAYS, making it appear to be shelve like. The shiny objects are at the end of what appears to be a wood holding device, so the opening next to the piano held firewood, and the cabinet led to the outside of the building.

This is a truly haunted Victorian building with wonderful clear and happy energy. We do not have Brian or Rodney's findings on their equipment as yet. We intend to come back and spend our anniversary here in November with Stephanie and Rita over a glass or two of wine, our two new friends, seeing what else may be going on.

Robert Reppert

One more thing, let's see what our Evidence Analyst Brian Abeel and Technician Rodney Roberts have to say:

BRIAN & RODNEY'S NOTES (found at this link):
http://forums.jazmaonline.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=633

Photos of the Shafsky House can be found here:
http://ghosts.meetup.com/231/photos/

For more information on Gold Rush Ghosts please visit
www.GoldRushGhosts.com

Paul Dale Roberts, GRG Paranormal Investigative Reporter, Ghosthunter
WPRT Paranormal Radio - Content Editor
Email: JazmaPika@cs.com
www.GoldRushGhosts.com
www.nancybradley.org
www.wprt.com
Paranormal Cellular Hotline: 916 203 7503 (for comments on this story).

Copyright © 2008 Paul Dale Roberts, GRG Ghostwriter/Gold Rush Ghosts/Nancy Bradley Copyright © 2008
all rights reserved.

Haunted happenings at the inn

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:57:00 +0000

As promised here is more of the finding of the Gold Rush Ghost folks from their visit at the Albert Shafsky House B&B.

From Paul Dale Roberts:"After gathering all of the history about the Shafskys, I wanted to know the experiences of Rita and Stephanie. I wanted to know what the guests also felt in this spacious bed and breakfast. While I was getting the information from Rita and Stephanie, Nancy sensed their was a ghostly fuzzy white dog and a ghostly tabby cat that was still roaming around in the premises of this home. As the interview continued, I learn that Rita and Stephanie owned the home for 6 years, they absolutely fell in love with the enchanting personality of this home. They have both experienced hearing heavy footsteps on the second floor, books being flown off the shelves, lightbulbs being unscrewed. They will also find pennies laying about the house. Mrs. Shafsky was known to save pennies. Nancy was feeling the presence of a small child in the neighboring room. Later she feels that two kids are playing. Could this perhaps be the children of Albert & Kitty? Rita and Stephanie at times hear piano music playing in the lounge room. Sometimes they smell cherry pipe smoke from 7:30pm to 8:30pm in the evening. On this very night, the cherry pipe smoke aroma filled the room for a matter of a few minutes during the interview process.

I learn that during storms, the activity seems to increase, as if the entities may be drawing energy from the ion particles in the atmosphere. Guests have seen a man on the stairs, it has been suggested that the man is Albert Shafsky himself. Shoes have been placed in order underneath the bed by an unseen force. We later learn that Kitty Shafsky's mother Thora Bean died in this home. Nancy conducting a psychic reading of the house, discovers that Albert Shafsky and his wife Kitty are here in this home. She also feels Alberta, Boyd and Bernice are still here. Nancy feels that it is Kitty, who is playing the piano in the lounge area room. Nancy picks up the fact that two dogs are buried in the backyard and the ghostly presence of the fuzzy white dog and tabby cat are also in this home. There was one more entity that Nancy picked up on, she said that Marian Wing a former resident of this home is still here making her haunting presence known.

Nancy picks up more energy signatures that indicate that Boyd had some kind of breathing problem and she could see Kitty beating on a rug outside on the porch. She said that Kitty was always concerned on the condition of her floors, she wanted the floors cleaned and tidy. Going through some old notes on the Shafsky, I found something comical. When Albert Shafsky was a little boy, he was on a ship with his father, he wanted to know what the time was and picked up an English dictionary to say "what o'clock is it?" and instead accidentally said "son of a b****".

The entities of this home, seem to be completely benevolent, they mean no harm to the owners and only want to make their presence known at certain times. Since little children are seen, this home probably has a combination of residual haunting activity in which an act replays itself over and over again. Case example, the children playing in the adjourning room. The children could possibly be the children of Albert & Kitty Shafsky. There seems to be some intelligent activity with the books flying off the shelf, as possibly one of the entities is trying to make a statement or let the owners know that he or she is around. With this beautiful bed and breakfast there is absolutely nothing to fear. If you ever stay at this bed and breakfast, you will even be greeted by the cutest miniature dachshund named Lily. Lily has detected presences in this home too. She will bark at an area where there is nothing there to be seen.

The Shafsky House is pretty popular, since established people of Hollywood have stayed here. Such as the location scouts for the movie Memoirs of a Geisha and the Director of the movie trailer Pirates of the Caribbean has stayed here too. Steve Hanks the well known artist has comfortably stayed the night at the Shafsky House to rejuvenate from his travels. If there was a haunted home I want to live in, the Shafsky House is right there on my list! "

Is the Albert Shafsky House Haunted?

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:50:00 +0000

Yes, we have been wondering that very thing for a long time ourselves. When Rita and I first moved in there were a number of things that we could not explain and chalked up to being in a new house, exhaustion from moving and learning to be innkeepers....but we also felt like there was more going on....and we were right.

We recently had the experience of having Nancy Bradley and her team of "Gold Rush Ghost" hunters visit and record their experience with us and the home of Albert Shafsky. Below is a portion of their preliminary report...more to follow.

Submitted by Paul Dale Roberts
"Sometimes when I go to Blockbuster Video, I pick up a few horror movies, like Thirteen Ghosts. That was one scary movie, in which every ghost is hideous and is an imminent threat to the guest's well-being. Ummm...how come I never run into Thirteen Ghosts that will scare the living daylights out of me? Case example, I get a call from Robert Reppert - Head Investigator of Gold Rush Ghosts and his lovely wife Nancy Bradley - Celebrity Psychic. They run down a story to me about a preliminary investigation that Robert Reppert, Rodney Roberts and Catherine Noble did at the Albert Shafsky House B&B. The story is intriguing. Robert wants me on the official investigation. Robert has me hooked, because he also mentions an Indiana Jones meets the Winchester House type of discovery. Robert discovered a stairwell in the basement area that leads to nowhere!

When I arrive to Nancy's home, the paranormal investigative team gathers: Robert Reppert - Head Investigator, Nancy Bradley - Psychic Extraordinaire, Rodney Roberts - Technician, Brian Abeel - Evidence Analyst and of course me, Paul Dale Roberts - Ghostwriter. We gather all the equipment that we will be using this evening of Sunday - May 18, 2008, which includes: thermal reader, digital audio recorders, digital cameras, video cameras, temperature gauges, EMF Readers. We all pile up in the official GRG Truck and head over to the Shafsky House - www.shafsky.com / 2942 Coloma Street, Placerville, CA 95667.

We are greeted by the owners Rita Timewell and Stephanie Carlson. Two very sweet ladies that have stories to tell. Nancy and I, conducted the interviews for her show Journey into the Paranormal. With the interviews, I learn that Albert Shafsky and his wife Dora Shafsky aka Kitty came to Placerville in 1901. Albert was a dry goods salesman and opened up a department store on Main Street. He was the first man to have glass show windows and he had a milliner who made lady's hats. He built a beautiful home for his wife Kitty and their 2 year old daughter Alberta. He later had 3 more daughters, Verah, Bernice & Jeane. He was to later have a son named Boyd, born in Oakland. Albert became well known in the community and was elected City Council Member from 1906 to 1910 and Mayor of Placerville from 1906 to 1908. Albert and his three brothers came from Kishinvev, Moldavia. His daughter Alberta lived for 103 years. Albert Shafsky is descended from Kopel Yarashafsky of Modavia. "

I will post more in a few days.....

Upcoming Events near our Placerville bed and breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Sun, 18 May 2008 19:42:00 +0000

June 4th
The Sequoia Comedy Night which is just a block from our bed and breakfast has great comedy nights.
The Sequoia presents a comedy showcase evening Doors open for Comedy Night at 7:00 pm; the show begins at 8:00 pm. Sequoia Restaurant at the historic Bee-Bennett House, 645 Bee Street, Placerville. For more information contact: Sequoia (530) 622-5222

June 6th
El Dorado Hills 2008 Summer Concert Series - Hot for Teacher - Van Halen Tribute Band
Great times, great tunes and high energy is the theme for this summer series. Tantalize your senses with songs from the 80's. Bring the kids, pack a picnic, potluck or stop for pizza and come on out for our summer concerts. Sponsored by Comcast, Wells Fargo, Sierra Fine Living Magazine and Marble Valley Center for the Arts 7:00 - 9:30 pm. El Dorado Hills Community Park Free For more information contact:

June 7 & 8
25th Annual Fair Play Wine Festival
This festival features 20 wineries all located within a 5 mile radius in southern El Dorado County. The festival will feature special events, gourmet faire, barrel tasting, live music, demonstrations and wine tasting. 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. both days Fair Play wineries $35/person and may be purchased at Fair Play wineries in advance or at the door during the event or online at www.fairplaywine.com

June 12-15
2008 El Dorado County Fair - Paws in Placerville
More details to come Thursday - Noon to Midnight; Friday & Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to Midnight; Sunday - 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Buildings & Exhibits close @ 10:00 p.m. El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive, Placerville. General (13 years & over) -$7. Youth (7 - 12 years) -$4; Children (6 & Under) - Free everyday; Senior - (60 & over) - $5; Parking - $4 or free shuttle service www.eldoradocountyfair.org For more information contact: El Dorado County Fairgrounds (530) 621-5860

June 14 & 15
Fathers Day Weekend Cherry Festival at Boa Vista Orchard
U-Pick Bing & Rainier Cherries, fresh Cherry & Blackberry Pies & Turnovers. BBQ Tri-tip sandwiches, fresh summer fruits & vegetables, apple wine tasting. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Boa Vista Orchards, 2952 Carson Road, Camino no cost for admission but cost for goods For more information contact: (530) 622-5522

And soon Imagination Theater will have tickets for it run of the Wizard of Oz which is sure to sell out. Nov 14-Dec 21

Gas, Snacks and Slug Gulch Red

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Thu, 15 May 2008 02:38:00 +0000

Gas prices are going up and one of the El Dorado WIneries close to our Placerville bed and breakfast wants to help you out. Over the Memorial Day weekend for 11-5 in their tasting room they will be releasing Slug Gulch Red for $9 (case and club discounts apply) and if you bring in a receipt for gas or diesel purchased during the Sat-Mon they will add an additional 5% discount to your wine purchase at Oakstone Winery.

Visits from other inns to our Placerville B&B

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:25:00 +0000

We had a lovely visit from our pals at the Olallieberry Inn located in Cambria, just minutes from Hearst Castle. We love this place!!!! And it is even painted the same colors as our Placerville bed and breakfast.

For great breakfasts on the central coast, there is no place we would rather stay than the Olallieberry Inn. Tell them we said "hello" if you happen to go.

Kindle and bed and breakfast innkeepers

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Sat, 10 May 2008 20:45:00 +0000

I have found a solution to the problem of space for my personal collection of books-- the Amazon Kindle. This wonderful little devise can hold 200 books on it, and since I love to read, it is practically perfect for me. There are still a number of books that will stay in the guest area of the inn--in fact nearly all, but my collection will be e-books for now. Plus Rita won't know how many I have purchased!!!

I am not suggesting that innkeepers get rid of their books that guests enjoy, but if your personal collection is getting too big for the space in your quarters, you might want to consider purchasing a Kindle and having "more room at the inn".

The Kindle has made living at a bed and breakfast so much easier, and since you can download and read a new book without leaving the bed and breakfast, it saves us time and gas as the nearest large book store is about 20 minutes away (a lifetime for some innkeepers).

Wine tasting in the foothills

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Tue, 06 May 2008 02:44:00 +0000

Saturday found us wine tasting at some of our favorites spots with some innkeepers from the Casa Tropicana in San Clemente who decided to getaway to our Placerville B&B. It is always fun to host other innkeepers---and play a bit in our backyard, showing off the fun to do in the area.

Our first stop was to Boeger where we of course had to try the Barbera in the tasting room with Sarah. As you can see they had other goodies to taste along with the award winning wines. When you stop in, tell them the Shafsky gals said hello!

Next stop for some Old World Port was Madrona Vineyards.

We also enjoyed the lovely view of the vines and snow-capped Sierra from just outside the tasting room door. They are holding an Open House at Madrona on May 24 & 25 for the release of their 2006 Shiraz-Cabernet where you will be able to purchase it by the case for $10/bottle.

Our last stop was to our pals at Wofford Acres Vineyards. What a great view they have! And fabulous wine too!

Lily the wonder dog and our trip to Amador Flower Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 20:01:00 +0000

Our faithful, adorable friend Lily can always be counted on to play with guests or sit in the sun...She recently turned two and was upset that it was not blogged about so here is a photo to make up for it.

We also took a trip to get some new plants last weekend to the Amador Flower Farm, which is about 30 minutes from the bed and breakfast. It was a lovely, warm day and while Lily went with us, she had to stay in the car while we picked up some new plants for the inn. All in all, a lovely day, with many plants to choose from--come stay and see the latest!

Fair Play Wine Happenings

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:46:00 +0000

The wine region of Fair Play is just about 20 minutes from our B&B. Here are some events you might want to come and stay for.....

Tickets currently available for two dates:

Saturday, May 10
Saturday, June 21
If you haven't experienced a Fair Play Wine and Poker Run, you are in for a fun day! Where else are you invited to sample superb wines from five different Fair Play wineries, choose your favorite bottle from each and take it home with you, then end the day enjoying a gourmet meal in the beautiful foothills among vineyards and gorgeous views? The short answer is no where except here! Each winery you visit will present you with an envelope containing a playing card. At the end of the day, you will have at least five cards to create your hand. The grand prize, awarded for the best hand, features prizes such as a night at Fitzpatrick Lodge Bed & Breakfast or other comparable and valuable prizes. Many other gifts are also awarded for the lesser poker hands (including the worst and a few not so fabulous hands). Click here for tickets and information.

Fair Play Wine Festival

June 7-8, 11am - 5pm
Meet the winemakers of Fair Play at the 25th Annual Fair Play Wine Festival! The 20 participating wineries are planning some exciting festivities, including gourmet fare paired with exceptional Fair Play wines, live music, bottle signings, barrel tasting, art, demonstrations, discussions with the winemakers, and much more. More intimate than the typical wine festival, this is a great way to introduce your friends to us, and also makes a perfect office getaway or birthday gift for your favorite wine lover. Tickets are $35 until May 31, and $40 after that. Tickets are limited, so purchase yours online or from a participating winery today! Click here for tickets and information.

Come to Placerville and celebrate Mother's Day with us

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 23:54:00 +0000

Come to Placerville and celebrate Mother's Day at the Placerville B&B and Boeger Winery

May 11th, 2008
10am-5pm
It's mom's special day so bring her to Boeger Winery. Try the newly released Muscat Canelli and White Riesling with a selection of locally prepared jams and jellies from Lavender View Farms. Each mom that visits the tasting room will receive a flower and complimentary Reserve Wine Tasting.

And they have new wines being released.

2007 White Riesling
This wine begins with wonderful aromas of dried pineapple, pear and a hint of lemon. The fore-palate consists of dried apple with a delicate honey finish. Serve this off-dry Riesling as an aperitif or as an accompaniment to an array of spicy cuisines. $15/bottle

Hangtown Red lot 36
Enjoy this wine's aroma of cherry and spice. This wine is a blend of 13 varietals, with Cabernet sauvignon and Cabernet franc as the two primary components. Moderate tannins and balanced fruit make this a great wine to enjoy with your favorite BBQ. $11/bottle
______________________________

SPECIALS!
Carson Peak Cabernet Sauvignononly$93 a case!
The 2004 Carson Peak Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of fresh bell pepper with hints of caramel and spice. This Cabernet was aged for two years in oak barrels making it very drinkable. Mellow tannins and balanced acidity make this an excellent food-pairing wine!

2006 Pinot Gris only$10 a bottle!
This wine has delightful aromas of ripe apples and melon with a slight hint of spice. Light and silky on the palate, this wine is best served with light summer fare.

With the Albert Shafsky House just minutes from Boeger, how can you go wrong?

Vineyards are sprouting up all over El Dorado County

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 23:51:00 +0000

Vineyards are sprouting up all over El Dorado County and today's SacBee had a nice article about some of our newest players in the El Dorado Wine region. It is really great for us as there are so many good ones for us to try and pass on to our guests at the bed and breakfast.

"Dunne on Wine: El Dorado wineries are sprouting like vines
By Mike Dunne

Aside from wine enthusiasts, no one may be happier with the growing number of wineries in El Dorado County than the guy who prints the map for the El Dorado Winery Association.

Every time a new winemaker joins the group, the printer must get a work order to run off a new batch of maps.

And new vintners look to be showing up in El Dorado County at the rate of one every couple of months.

We recently took advantage of the association's 17th annual Passport Weekend to catch up with a few of them.

Iverson Vineyards & Winery
Pedigree: Eight years ago, Mike and Melodie Iverson were living in El Dorado Hills and working in the power business, he with Pacific Gas & Electric Co., she with the California Independent System Operator.

She's still on the grid, but he's now working full time in their vineyard and cellar, on a ridge along Perry Creek Road in the Fair Play area of southwestern El Dorado County.

They bought the property in 2000, and today tend 8 acres of grapes, all for such red wines as primitivo, sangiovese, zinfandel and barbera.

They planted malbec, too, but won't be making any wine from that plot in the near future. "Raccoons ate all the malbec this year," says Mike.

The Iversons opened their winery a year ago. Their winemaker is Rich Gilpin, formerly of nearby Windwalker Vineyard, now with his own winery, Lavender Ridge, in Calaveras County.

Why El Dorado: On wine-tasting treks into the Sierra foothills, the Iversons became especially keen on Windwalker wines.

On one of their visits they noticed a "for sale" sign on a 32-acre spread that included a house and a barn, the latter of which they've replaced with the structure that now houses their tasting room.

Focus: "We want very drinkable wines. You can take any of our bottles and drink it on the patio; you don't have to have anything with it," says Mike Iverson. "Nothing we have is big, thick and chalky. You don't need a steak to enjoy them."

Don't miss: With its alluring strawberry smell, note of pomegranate in the flavor and austere structure, the Iverson 2007 Sierra Foothills Grenache Rosé ($18) is suitable for patio sipping as well as pairing with shellfish. The Iverson 2006 El Dorado Barbera ($22) has been in the bottle less than two months and starts off tight, but with a little time in the glass it blossoms into a zesty representative of the varietal. Also check out the Iverson 2005 El Dorado Merlot ($19) and the Iverson 2005 El Dorado Syrah ($22).

Particulars: Iverson, 8061 Perry Creek Road, Fair Play, is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday through Sunday and by appointment; (530) 620-7474.

Sierra Oaks Estates
Pedigree: Jim and Toshi Brown's infatuation with wine began innocently enough with a home winemaking kit they bought some 30 years ago.

"We liked it, and went on from there," says Jim, at the time living in Marin County and working as a manager with Pac Bell.

By 1994 they'd bought a 40-acre parcel of bare land in the Fair Play area and had begun to plant what now amounts to a 10-acre vineyard, doing all the work themselves.

They were content to sell their grapes, but when Jim became convinced that the merlot he was making as a self-taught winemaker was better than the merlot that a Napa Valley winery was making with his fruit, he decided to start his own operation.

That was 2001. Because of a "private-road issue," the couple's winery isn't open to the public. As a consequence, five years ago he opened a tasting room at the junction of Fair Play and Mt. Aukum roads.

Why El Dorado: While living in the Bay Area, the Browns belonged to a wine-tasting club that spent one weekend a year in the foothills, customarily Calaveras County.

"We went to Amador County one year and liked it pretty well, but we couldn't find a parcel the size we wanted," says Jim.

Their continued exploration brought them across the Cosumnes River into the Mount Aukum and Fair Play area, where they found the sort of spread they envisioned.

Focus: Full-bodied wines without the gritty tannins. "We work real hard to get ripe fruit without harsh tannins," he says. "I grew up liking cherries and berries. I like to see that in wines."

he couple, now assisted by consulting winemaker John Montero of Napa Valley, makes only red wines.

"I have no passion for whites," says Jim.

Don't miss: The couple's signature wine goes by the proprietary name Zinzabar ($19). It's a slightly smoky, slightly spicy and youthful blend of zinfandel and barbera. The current release is a mix of zinfandel from the 2005 harvest and barbera from 2006, a decision Jim made when he couldn't find any 2005 barbera that he liked. We also liked the Sierra Oaks 2002 Fair Play Zinfandel and the Sierra Oaks 2002 Fair Play Merlot, but they're sold out.

Particulars: The tasting room of Sierra Oaks Estates, 6713 Mt. Aukum Road, Fair Play, is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; (530) 620-7079.

Busby Cellars
Pedigree: Elliot and Sherrie Graham were working in Sacramento and living in Rocklin – he was in sales, she was in advertising – when in 1999 they bought a 34-acre chunk of the landmark Meyers Ranch along Grizzly Flat Road just east of Somerset.

A sagging barn dating from the 1930s dominates the site, but now it's flanked by 14 acres of wine grapes. It's a diverse vineyard, planted to 15 varieties, though zinfandel forms the single largest block, 8 acres.

"We do everything ourselves," says Elliot, who learned home winemaking under his father's tutelage. "It's a hobby gone wild."

Since building the winery in 2003, he's been making about 2,000 cases a year, almost all of which is sold directly out of their tasting room, though at times the Sacramento restaurant The Waterboy has stocked Busby wines. "Busby," incidentally, is Sherrie's family name.

Why El Dorado: The couple spent three years scouting the foothills for suitable vineyard property.

Focus: "We're definitely into small-lot batches," Elliot says. "We make too many varietals, but I like so many types of wine.

"Our focus, however, is zinfandel; why fight it?" he added, referring to the region's long-standing reputation for zinfandel.

Stylistically, he's aiming for "well-rounded, fruit-forward wines with backbone." Their vineyards tend to give wines a spiciness suggestive of pepper and clove.

Don't miss: The Busby 2005 Fair Play Zinfandel ($18) carries its high alcohol (15.6 percent) well, the heat not at all intruding on its blackberry, licorice and peppery highlights, though its sturdy tannins suggest it be laid down for a few years. Also check out the Busby 2005 El Dorado Tempranillo ($16); the Busby 2005 El Dorado Petite Sirah ($16); and the nonvintage Busby El Dorado Apparition, a Bordeaux-style blend based largely on cabernet sauvignon ($18).

Particulars: Busby, 6375 Grizzly Flat Road, Somerset, is open 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday; (530) 344-9119.

Miraflores Winery
Pedigree: For three years, Yuma pathologist Victor Alvarez and his wife Cheryl scouted Arizona for potential vineyard land before they happened upon the Pleasant Valley area of El Dorado County.

That was in 1992. They liked the look and feel of the area and ended up piecing together a total of 254 acres, which they started to plant to vines nine years ago.

Today, they're cultivating nearly 40 acres of grapes, much of it syrah, zinfandel and petite sirah, but including cabernet sauvignon, viognier and muscat canelli.

In 2005 they created the brand Miraflores, at first making wine in leased quarters. A year ago they opened their own monumental facility, rising like a Tuscan villa amid poison oak and throw rugs of daffodils 2,000 feet up the Sierra.

Why El Dorado: "We didn't come here to build a winery. This place is so beautiful. It was meant to be a retirement place," says Alvarez.

One thing led to another, with their small vineyard expanding and their growing confidence in the quality of their grapes.

When local consulting winemaker Marco Cappelli urged the couple to hold on to their fruit and use it to start making their own wine, they began to stake out a site for the winery.

Focus: To Alvarez, Miraflores clearly is meant to be a "New World" winery, turning out big and brassy wines. He wants them packed with rich fruit, and he isn't leery of saturated color and high levels of alcohol, though he also wants his wines refreshing.

"We are an American-style winery, with wines with lots of flavor and fruit," he says.

Don't miss: Marco Cappelli, the former winemaker at Swanson Vineyards in Napa Valley, is recognized for crafting wines of clarity, balance and elegance, which at Miraflores is shown especially in the 2006 El Dorado Syrah Rosé ($15), the 2006 El Dorado Viognier ($18), the 2005 El Dorado Zinfandel ($20), the 2004 El Dorado Syrah ($30), and the 2005 El Dorado Petite Sirah ($22).

Particulars: Miraflores, 2120 Four Springs Trail, Placerville, is open 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. daily; (530) 647-8505."

Our nearest winery...Boeger

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 02:49:00 +0000

We are lucky to have so many great wineries just minutes from our Placerville bed and breakfast. Beoger is a great place to spend the afternoon as they have lovely grounds, and a wonderful group of staff in the tasting room. In the three decades since Boeger Winery was founded, they have been committed to only one standard: quality. They have built on their education and experience to produce exceptional wines. They are able to control the quality of our wines because they grow over 90% of our grapes. They are small enough to allow full attention to detail.

Boeger is committed not only to making the highest quality wines, but to pushing the boundaries of winemaking as well. Greg Boeger was one of the state's first producers of a varietal Merlot when it was virtually unheard of in California. Today he is a pioneer of innovative blends, drawing from over twenty-five varieties of grapes grown at the estate. Boeger is quickly becoming known for bringing new and uncommon varietals to the market place. They look forward to your visits!

Open for wine tasting 10AM-5PM, daily

Tell them the "Shafsky House" gals sent you!

Professional Innkeeping

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 02:40:00 +0000

Rita just returned from the 2nd bed and breakfast conference we thought we should attend of the year...PAII in Anaheim. We figure that if you are going to run an inn you should belong to whatever learning association you can, so as to stay current with trends. That is why you will always find us at the state (California Association of Bed and Breakfast Inns - CABBI) conference and this year we added to the toolbox by going to PAII (Professional Association of Innkeepers International).

And while you are attending innkeeping conferences, if you can get one good idea, it usually translates into the cost of the conference and your membership for the year...or at least that is what we have found to be true.

THE 2009 INNSPIRE CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW

We are pleased to announce that the 2009 InnSpire Conference and Trade Show will take place February 1-3, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. We hope to see you there!

Innkeeping with the history theme this month - gold rush in Coloma

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 02:59:00 +0000

Near to our Placerville bed and breakfast is the place that started the gold rush to California - Coloma, CA.

From the State site:"James W. Marshall discovered gold in 1848 on the South Fork of the American River in the valley the Nisenan Indians knew as Cullumah. This event led to the greatest mass movement of people in the Western Hemisphere and was the spark that ignited the spectacular growth of the West during the ensuing decades. The gold discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter's sawmill, in present day Coloma California, is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation.

The purpose of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is to secure for the people and to make available for their observation, inspiration, and enjoyment, the gold discovery site and its environs as an accurate portrayal of the story that unfolded at the time of the discovery and Gold Rush. The park's interpretive program primarily embraces the period from 1847 through 1852, but also shows the town of Coloma as it developed.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is the place where James W. Marshall found shining flecks of gold in the tailrace of the sawmill he was building for himself and John Sutter. This discovery in 1848 changed the course of California's and the nation's history. See a replica of the original sawmill and over 20 historic buildings including mining, house, school, and store exhibits.

Visitors have the opportunity to try panning for gold in the American River and enjoy hikes and picnics under the riparian oak woodlands. Overlooking the beautiful river canyon, where the gold discoverer rests today, see California's first historic monument, the statue of James Marshall pointing at his gold discovery site .

Throughout the year the park provides daily interpretive programs at the sawmill replica. Participate in special events, exhibits and "Live History Days" planned regularly throughout the year; contact the Gold Discovery Museum and Visitor Center for details."

This is a great place to spend the afternoon strolling thru history.

EL DORADO COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 01:00:00 +0000

Since I have been posting about the history of the Shafsky family and our Placerville bed and breakfast, I thought I should mention a great place for research. The County Musuem.

Next to the El Dorado County Fair Grounds is where you can find the El Dorado County Museum
104 Placerville Drive
Placerville, CA 95667
Phone: (530) 621-5865
Email: museum@co.el-dorado.ca.us

Take an informative tour, wander among the historical artifacts, or research a family ancestor. The El Dorado County Historical Museum is the place to learn about the fascinating history of El Dorado County, one of California’s original and most historic counties.

More Shafsky Family history

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 01:49:00 +0000

On May 24, 1873, Aaron Yara Shafsky was born in Kishinev, Moldavia, near Odessa above the Black Sea. He arrived in California in 1889 with his brothers and changed his name to Albert Shafsky. Together, they started a dry goods business in Fort Bragg, California, first selling their merchandise to the men at the nearby lumber camps, and then establishing their first store in Fort Bragg in 1892.

While brothers Harry and Samuel Shafsky operated the store, Albert with horses and wagon traveled all over the coast, taking orders, selling goods and establishing the name of the Shafsky Brothers. In 1898, Albert was naturalized as a citizen of the United States in the Superior Court of the City and County of San Francisco and married ("Kitty") Dora May Smith. They had five children, three born here in Placerville.

Albert Shafsky left Fort Bragg in 1901 and settled in Placerville, where he opened a department store downtown, first in the Douglas Building, then moving in 1909 to a new building on the old Kunkler lot on the Plaza. The store was known for having the first glass show windows and a milliner who made ladies' hats.

Albert was a Placerville City Council Member from 1906-1910 and Mayor of Placerville from 1906-1908. A copy of the Shafsky genealogy was kindly donated to the Inn by the Shafsky family, and guests are welcome to read more about this fascinating family while staying at the bed and breakfast. These as well as many other interesting books are available in our ever-expanding book collection.

Trains close to Placerville and our bed and breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:09:00 +0000

Located just a short drive from our Placerville bed and breakfast is one of the nicest museums in California and one of the best railroad displays anywhere.

Old town Sacramento is home to the California State Railroad Museum and it is a favorite haunt of ours when we are not being innkeepers.

From their site "Widely regarded as North America’s most popular railroad museum, there is something here for everyone! Throughout the year, experience lavishly restored trains, engaging exhibits, and unique special events. Every weekend April-September, ride behind a steam locomotive on the Museum’s Sacramento Southern Railroad. What's happening at the Museum? Click here!"

More cool history ads

noreply@blogger.com (Albert Shafsky House B&B in Placerville) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 14:27:00 +0000

Cool ad.