By Cory Fisher
Record Staff Writer

After a year on the market, the Bear River Retreat on Highway 174 has been sold to Southern California videographer Sandy Brooke.

The 3,300-square-foot lodge — which sits on 14 acres next to the Bear River Bridge — was auctioned off roughly a month ago for just over $800,000. Although there were several bidders eager to purchase the property, former owner Greg Emmerson said he wanted the lodge to go to someone with the “same vision” for the property.

"I knew she was the right person, because she cried when she got it, she wanted it so bad,” Emmerson said. “I put my heart and soul into this property. I wanted the new person to do the same things I did, only enhance it.”

Brooke, a Van Nuys resident who has owned and operated Brooke Video for the past 30 years, says she’s ready to leave the urban jungle for a quieter existence. Her two brothers, Bill and Barry Brooke, have lived in Grass Valley for 20 years with their families.  “I’ve got a lot of family to catch up with,” she said. “I’m really appreciating nature, the slower pace and the deer that come into my yard. I share Greg’s enthusiasm about this property. I feel like I’m stealing his baby.”

Brooke hopes to rent out the lodge and grounds for family reunions or other groups interested in a family-oriented retreat. “I’d also like to add a video package to their stay,” she said. “It’s a special way to document their stay.”

Built in 1996, the fully-furnished retreat is accented with river rock masonry and wrap-around porches. The inside boasts country-style décor, a fully equipped kitchen and five guest rooms, two of which are private suites. All guests need to bring is groceries. The front porch looks out onto a sprawling lawn with a view of Bear River Valley.

“I want this to be a place where people can come and forget about their everyday lives.”

For more information on the Bear River Retreat, contact Sandy Brooke at (866) 504-2329 or (530) 346-6418, or visit the website at bearriverretreat.com.