DOWNIEVILLE — This past Saturday, at the junction of CA-49 and the Gold Lakes Highway, Tim and Becky Robinson, the new owners of the historic Bassett's Station, held a Grand Reopening of the general store, cafe, and motel there. During the festivities, starting at noon, the Robinson's provided live music plus free hot dogs and chips as long as supplies lasted. The Mountain Messenger didn't arrive until late in the afternoon and missed out on the free grub. However, we
did take advantage of their gasoline pump and dropped off a bundle of newspapers for sale to visitors. As for the fuel service, due to an unexpected delay in receiving a permit from the county for constructing a concrete slab to support a diesel fuel tank, we weren't able to pay at the pump. However, the new card-lock, 24x7, three grade pump system
is slated to become operational today, May 18, and the diesel service is expected within the next two weeks. Meanwhile, the Sardine Lake Lodge will be opening on Friday May 26 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for boat rentals and libations (Bloody Mary’s, Mimosas, Wine, Beer and other drinks). Saturday, May 27, will be the start of 7 days a week at the Lodge with
dinners available Wednesday thru Sundays!!
Bassett's Station, last Saturday afternoon, May 13, as the grand
reopening for this venerated establishment at the southern entrance to
the Lakes Basin was winding down.