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The Newcomer

(by Della Bacon - March 01, 2010)

Spring is coming, rather slowly, but it is on the way. Somewhere I heard, March showers bring April flowers. Im okay with the rain, just pray winds are light and colorful blossoms wont be blown from the trees. Arent these flowering trees, that we see all over town, gorgeous right now! Think warm! Think sunshine and honeybees. Then think, what does our downtown have in store for First Friday in March?
First Friday is just a few days away, and weather permitting, Historical Downtown Oroville has great plans for shopping, walking and hanging out enjoyment. Check out the window displays. Women Who Made History will be the theme. Now dont think this is the run-of-the-mill successful woman who married well or inherited the local Five and Dime Store. No, no, no! These women are the most admired women according to our local merchants. You have to remember that the people who run, manage, operate, and decorate the retail stores in Oroville, have a tremendous sense of humor. The reason I am not telling you the entire scoop is most likely someone already has given you some hints. But, most of all, I want you to see for yourself! Come giggle with me, explore and tour. Supposedly the sales and displays begin at 4 pm. However, I have learned from a special source that the sales are on-going all week and the window displays have been uncovered. Join me on the First Friday in Historical Downtown Oroville. Maybe we could have lunch together.
You say, Where shall we have lunch? Oh my, there are so many wonderful places to choose from. If we are going to explore downtown, Checkers Italian Dining is perhaps too far away. (Its no secret, this is one of my favorites.) We could meet at Franciscos on Myers and Mitchell Streets. Its only a 1/2 block from the Digger Shopper & News office. I have been told it is one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in town. Still, it is hard for me to decide, because I dearly love most of the Mexican restaurants in town. Authentic means real, and I know there are some really good cooks in our town. Franciscos is a family-owned and operated business, that specializes in recipes handed down from one generation to another. I had a fantastic conversation with the head chef at Los Compadres located on west side of Oro Dam Blvd. He told me he also serves family recipes, in a festive environment—festive, friendly, pleasant, unique flavors … modernized.
Last time I wrote about local restaurants I was reminded Iron Gate is across from the Oroville Library and creates a great breakfast and/or lunch. Plus their service is terrific! A fan wrote and reminded me The Hauf Brau on 5th Avenue makes sandwiches, with lots of extra meat. The Fire Department, Police Department and the First Responders frequent the Hauf Brau on a regular basis. It is owned and operated by a handsome, married couple, the Brenners. (Did I tell you their kid brother is a well-known attorney in Manteca?) Check out the parking lot and you will see the hard-working guys that do the grunt work in our town love the Hauf Brau because they have easy parking and serve large portions. Breakfast, lunch, and early dinner is available to take home for late meals. (That means if you work overtime, you can still get dinner on the table, as usual.)
You know what? I adore Chinese food! Lets go to Tong Fong Low on Robinson Street. We can have some of Charlies famous Chop Suey. It is downtown, and we can leave our cars parked, while we walk the blocks around town. Parents, grandparents and great-grandparents continually tell me that is where they hung out, when they were in Oroville High School. Lis Cuisine, in the Raleys shopping center wasnt around yet. I like Lils Cuisine, for quick service. It is hard to compare. Am I a gourmet or a gourmand?
We could go to The Boss on Montgomery Street for a hamburger, after we walk, talk, and shop. The Cornucopia, is always a wonderful experience. Why not Gold City Grill? What about Papacitos. Or The River? Or The Waffle Shop. I love S&S Bakery, too.
Do you get the point? O.K. o.k., you are right! I certainly have left out many of the restaurants and eating places in Historical Downtown Oroville and or around town, in the county, up the hill. Lets talk about you and what you like? Why do you suppose I did that? Well, the truth is, I want you to tell me where you enjoy a luncheon out. Probably you consider a different place for dinner out or Sunday Brunch. It doesnt have to be here in Oroville. What about Paradise? I love Gridley and hear they have great food. Chico? It is a pretty big town for me to get lost in, so send directions.
Whats going on this weekend at The Birdcage? A talent show. You gotta see it to believe it! I will be there opening night! Harriet Norton, who carries a large purse with a clock, has won 2 complimentary tickets to this weekends Birdcage performance. Lola Moore, who lives in The Oaks and has a sewing group that meets at her house, has won 6 tickets to The Birdcage talent show, opening this weekend. Call me, so I can deliver.
Drop me a line through e-mail (della@diggernews.com). Write me a letter (snail-mail) The Newcomer c/o The Digger Shopper & News, 2057 Mitchell, Oroville, CA 95966, or even use the telephone, (530) 533-2170. You must leave a message for me to call you back. You see, I do not go to The Digger every single day. How can I? I really am out and about town trying to get you to talk to me, The Newcomer. When you write, call, or leave a message, your name will be put in the hat for 2 tickets to a Birdcage presentation.
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della bacon
The Newcomer