ES Spring 2013 16 pg WEB

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Stay l Play l Dine l Shop l Explore See what’s waiting for you this Christmas!

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An Apple A Day

Indigeny Reserve

TGIF Sonora E XS P LORE PRING

SPECIAL

2013

EDITION

Sonora EXPLORE

MAGAZINE

Pinecrest Lake Ride in Comfort to YNP

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Sonora Shop & Stroll

exploresonora.com

BIG DOUBLE ISSUE

Sonora EXPLORE

MAGAZINE

Artist Keith Impink

sonorachamber.org

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EXPLORE

Tuolumne County Sing & Summer Events 18767 Main Street • Groveland, CA 95321 • 209-962-4000 • 800-273-3314 • www.groveland.com

TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

VACATION STATION

APRIL 19 TO MAY 19

MAY 25 TO MAY 27

APRIL 19 TO MAY 19

MAY 27

APRIL 20

MAY 30 TO JUNE 2

Stage 3 Theater Company “Other Desert Cities”

Sierra Repertory Theatre “Church Basement Ladies” Satellite Office 385 So. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 800.446.1333 209.533.4420 yosemitegoldcountry.com

YOUR VACATION STARTS HERE!

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Friday, June 28 & Friday, September 27 Sonora invites you to the

Historic Downtown and enjoy the music of some terrific bands and an Outdoor Movie Theatre. Enjoy dining up and down Washington St. and Stewart St. Shop & Stroll all afternoon into the evening discovering all the uniques shops in the historic downtown. Visit exploresonora.com or sonorachamber.org for all event details.

MAY 31 TO JUNE 23

Sierra Repertory Theatre “6 Dance Lessons in 6 Weeks” JUNE 1

Vacation Station Opens

The Groveland Hotel Vintage Day (see page 9 Discover Groveland Magazine))

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The

Columbia’SHP Memorial Day Salute Columbia Diggins 1852

Railtown 1897 Wildflower Train

OPENING IN EARLY MAY 2013

n early May, a satellite Visitors Center, a.k.a. Vacation Station, will open at 367 South Washington Street, opposite the Inns of California, in Historic Downtown Sonora. The TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU will be opening up the new Visitors Center at the Day-O Plaza in downtown Sonora. This visible, downtown location adjcent to high-traffic hotels, restaurants and merchants will greatly appeal to visitors traveling north or south. along Washington Street between Highways 49 & 108. This location will give Visitors Bureau staff more opportunities to tell travelers about all there is to see and do in Tuolumne County. The Visitors Center will also be an outlet for ticket sales for various events throughout the County. There will be Vacationland branded merchandise, children’s travel games and other items of interest to visitors, like books, tshirts, magnets and postcards. Additionally, the Visitors Center will have regional and statewide travel information, making it a great stop for local residents planning trips outside Tuolumne County. The TCVB business office on Stockton Rd.,(Highway 49) will remain in their current location. yosemitegoldcountry.com

Railtown 1897 Memorial Day Weekend

JUNE 6 TO JUNE 9

Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee JUNE 8

Farms of Tuolumne County Annual Farm Tour JUNE 8

Columbia SHP Sarsaparilla Roundup

APRIL 20

Columbia College Latin Jazz Big Band

JUNE 15 TO JUNE 16

APRIL 21

Columbia State Park 37th Annual Wine Tasting

Father’s Day Fly-In Columbia Airport

APRIL 27

Spring Festival Historic Downtown Sonora MAY 11

Railtown 1897 National Train Day MAY 11 TO MAY 12

Mother Lode Round-up Parade & Rodeo

JUNE 16

MAY 11

Stage 3 “The Diviners”

The Flora and Fauna of Natural Bridges

Railtown 1897 Father’s Day JUNE 21 TO JULY 28 JULY 4

Fireworks at Ironstone Vineyards

MAY 16 TO MAY 19

Calaveras Fair & Frog Jumping Jubilee

JULY 4 TO JULY 7

MAY 18

Railtown 1897 4th of July

MAY 23 TO MAY 27

76th Annual Mother Lode Fair

Black Oak Casino Indian Market

JULY 11 TO JULY 14

Strawberry Music Festival

Cellar Door

R E S TA U R A N T

California exploresonora.com Fresh Cuisine

Groveland Hotel at Yosemite National Park 18767 Main Street, Groveland, CA 95321 209.962.4000 • 800.273.3314 www.groveland.com The


MOTHER LODE BANK EXPLORE

“We’re Local and....Simply A Better Bank” www.motherlodebank.com

Downtown Sonora 172 West Stockton Road (209) 694-8400 Junction Shopping Center 13769-C Mono Way (209) 532-9400

event calendar highlights

Sonora’s Annual Spring Festival

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he sidewalks of Sonora come alive in Sonora’s 18th Annual Spring Festival! Stroll the downtown streets amongst live music, arts and crafts, games, food, and fun for all ages including puppet shows, face painting, belly dancers, jugglers, and instore specials at several merchants. This event is free to the public, and takes place in the historic section of downtown Sonora along Washington St. The City of Sonora’s Spring Festival 11:00 am - 4 p.m. Historic Downtown Sonora 209.532.7725

2nd Saturday Art Walk Historic Downtown Sonora

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very 2nd Saturday of the month, 5pm-9pm, Historic Downtown Sonora comes alive with Art & Music! Experience Sonora’s magic every month when retail stores, art galleries are all open and feature great local art and the best Sonora musicians. 209.532.7697 sonoranightout.com

Columbia Diggins 1852

May 30 to June 2 Columbia State Historic Park Step back in time to the year 1852 and discover what life was like in a gold diggins encampment! Volunteers help recreate this time in history by living the life of a miner, merchant, actor/actress and more. School tours are available. 209.588.9128 visitcolumbiacalifornia.com

The Farmer’s Market is open to the public every Saturday morning from 7:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The Sonora Farmer’s Market is located on Theall and Stewart Street and is one block off of Washington St/HWY 49. farmsoftuolumnecounty.org

76th Annual

Mother Lode Fair

Mother Lode Roundup Parade & Rodeo May 11 to May 12

Historic 49 Trolley Service he Historic 49

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Trolley Service begins immediately after the Mother Lode Round-Up Parade. It offers locals and tourists the opportunity to travel from Sonora to Columbia and Jamestown on weekends through Labor Day weekend. The Trolleys run hourly into the evening on Saturdays until 9 pm and on Sundays until 4 pm. Trolleys are wheelchair accessible and equipped with bicycle racks. 209.532.0404 historic49trolleyservice.com

YARTS to Yosemite

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reak out your boots & Stetsons to celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend, Round-up style! One of the largest parades in California. More than 350 pro rodeo cowboys & cowgirls compete in Saturday and Sunday rodeo events. Western dance, BBQ, Mother’s Day Breakfast and Queen Contest. Historic Downtown Sonora Mother Lode Fairgrounds 209.928.9318 motherloderoundup.com 209.532.7428

Farmer’s Market he Sonora Certified Farm-

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ers’ Market is open every Saturday, from May 18 through October 19, 2013.

July 11 to July 14 eatured events include carnival, live entertainment, music, destruction derby, agricultural displays and more! Mother Lode Fairgrounds motherlodefair.org 209.532.7428

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ervice from Sonora through Groveland to Yosemite National Park will begin in Maycontinlng thru the summer. yosemite.tuolumnecountytransit.com 209.532.0404

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The Historic

EXPLORE

Gunn House Hotel

Don’t miss our famous HotelBreakfast– Bear Innkeeper’s Built in 1850 ‘Gunny’ Our Famous

In the Heart of Historic Downtown Sonora

Waffles made to order!

Rooms $79-$125

286 S. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Reservations (209) 532-3421 www.gunnhousehotel.com theater. Set in the Western Territory the highspirited rivalry between the farmers and the cowboys provides a colorful backdrop for the love story of handsome cowboy Curly and winsome farmgirl Laurey.

Live Theatre Sierra Repertory Theatre Co.

RESPECT:

Sierra Rep (or SRT) presents nine main-stage shows per year at two locations – the original East Sonora Theater and the Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park. Sierra Rep plays to an audience coming from both the Mother Lode area and from an hour or more away.

A Musical Journey of Women

July 26 - September 1, 2013 This international hit musical tells the exciting story of women through popular music and the real adventures of women realizing dreams, lost loves, relationships and careers. “It’s one heck of a fun ride...a must-see and must-hear musical that you will want to see more than once!” (BroadwayWorld)

2013 Season Church Basement Ladies

April 19 - May 19, 2013 Fallon House Theatre A musical celebration of the church basement kitchen and the women who work there, Church Basement Ladies features four distinct characters as they organize the food and solve the problems of a rural Minnesota church about to undergo changes in 1965.

SRT Venues

East Sonora Theatre 13891 Mono Way, Sonora Fallon House 11175 Washington St. Columbia www.sierrarep.com Tickets & Information

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks

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209.532.3120

May 31 - June 23, 2013 East Sonora Theatre A touching and human comedy about a formidable retired woman who hires an acerbic dance instructor to give her private dance lessons.

Stage 3 Theatre Co.

Stage 3 is a ‘black box’ theater with an intimate 85 seats surrounding the stage on 3 sides. Productions range from very simple staging to very complex sets. The Company has eared a reputation for producing outstanding plays in their 20 year history.

Other Desert Cities

April 19 - May 19 Secluded in the great desert of California, the once powerful Wyeths are enjoying the kind of retirement most people dream about. Concealed in their golden world there is a tiny crack, buried so deep that it has almost slipped from memory

The Diviners

June 21 - July 28 In the heat-scorched Dust Bowl of the 1930’s, young Buddy Layman has become something of a legend in Zion, the Indiana town where he lives. Having barely escaped drowning when he was four, he is now mentally scarred and irrationally terrified of water. Somehow, Buddy has developed a miraculous gift: he can find precious water. Stage 3 Theatre Company 208 S Green St, Sonora ,Ca 95370 stage3.org Tickets & Information

Oklahoma!

June 28 - August 18, 2013 Fallon House Theatre Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first glorious collaboration created a new standard for musical

209.536.1778

exploresonora.com

685 South Washington St., Sonora • 209.536.1400 • groceryoutlet.com/Sonora-CA


Our Community Partner

EXPLORE

Live Well. Be Well. This Edition of Explore Sonora pays special attention to Railtown 1897, one of the area’s most popular attractions. We encourage both visitors and locals alike to discover a bit of our Western History and M A G A Z I N E Heritage this spring, through summer, fall and winter. CONCEPT, DESIGN & PRODUCTION 2 TUOLUMNE COUNTY EVENTS

EXPLORE

Sonora Paul Bell

ADVERTISING SALES

Sonora Chamber of Commerce • Paul Bell

REGIONAL SALES

Paul Pieretti, 209.962.4143

EDITORIAL & PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTORS

Paul Bell NBEAMS Baby & Kids SUNBEAMS Baby & Kids Keith Impink Indigeny Reserve The Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau Sierra Repertory Theatre John DeGrazio, yexplore.com California State Historic Parks Tuolumne County Transit/YARTS

EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION INTERNS Meg Werlhof and Rebecca Cone

Voted ‘Best Chinese Restaurant’ 2009, 2010 & 2011!

Discover the small towns of Tuolumne County and experience the many events awaiting you and your family this holiday season. 3 CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS

Things to look forward to this Spring & Summer. 6 LIVE THEATRE

Sierra Rep and Stage 3 Theatre offer an outstanding season this Spring. Don’t miss anything! 6-9 & 14 THE GOOD LIFE

Your shopping guide chock full of unique stores and small town experiences. 9 LOCAL DINING GUIDE

The foothills offer a wide selection of dining choices. 10 - 11 MILD ADVENTURES: PINECREST LAKE

John DeGrazio, yexplore.com, takes you on a vacation in his backyard. A place a world away and only a short trip up Highway 108. 12-13 KEITH IMPINK ARTIST POFILE

THE

SONORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Voice of Commerce, Culture & Community

A local artist, with roots in Sonora and Copperopolis, is a commercial artist whose talents have extended his work into the realm of those like Andy Warhol or Norman Rockwell. 14 AN APPLE A DAY

Indigeny Reserve is makings its mark in Tuolumne County as a producer of organic apples, hard cider, brandy, cattle feed and preserving the delicate ecological balance in the process.

Mailing Address P.O. Box 3084 Sonora, CA 95370 Vox/Fax: 209.694.4405 WEBSITE 15 SPRING COMES TO RAILTOWN sonorachamber.org or sonorachamber.com A jam-packed calendar of events for the whole family E-MAIL: info@sonorachamber.org through Spring and all Summer long. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization representing the community of Sonora. As the Sonora Chamber 16 CAVE & MINE ADVENTURES of Commerce, we concentrate our marketing efforts within the Have the BEST Birthday ever! Greater Sonora area. The Sonora Chamber of Commerce is also 17 - 20 DISCOVER GROVELAND MAGAZINE dedicated to raising the awareness of Tuolumne County through Tuolumne County Transit and the Yosemite Area Regional Transit tourism, and markets the area as a tourism destination. System (YARTS) are partnering to EXPLORE SONORA is a joint publication of The Sonora Chamber provide service to Yosemite Nationof Commerce and Paul Bell l Marketing Solutions. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained herein al Park from May to September. is accurate at the time of publication, but neither entity assumes Please see the supplement in the any responsibility for errors, omissions and changes.

PAUL BELL l MARKETING SOLUTIONS

P.O. Box 5572, Sonora, CA 95370 Telephone: 209.352.8551 759050850 paulbell.biz l info@paulbell.biz

We are proud to be a acknowledge the Yosemite Conservancy and its celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Yosemite Grant. Please suppurt their effort to preserve this Natural Wonder and its legacy for generations to come. Over the next 18 months, in this and future issues of both centerfold of this magazine. The Discover Groveland and Explore Sonora Magazines, we Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau will offer articles of interest and celebration of Yosemite invites you to Discover Yosemite National Park. Look for their Commeorative Logo adjacent Gold Country this year! to related articles.

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the good life

fashion, home & garden

Joan’s Boutique

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xploring Downtown Sonora will likely reveal a pleasant surprise that you might not be expecting to find in such a small town. Joan’s Boutique at 52 S. Washington St. is owned and personally attended to by Joan Richardson, who’s been a retail merchant for more than two decades. Joan’s store has been a fixture of the community for years and it’s difficult to find women of any age who don’t shop there for that special discovery, whether it’s clothing and accessories, or just her pleasant company during any hour of her very long retail day, which never seems to deter her from her positive, friendly and out-going demeanor. What is quickly revealed is Joan’s and her staff’s readiness to please every customer. Everyone is made to feel comfortable, which is exactly what Small Town Cheer is all about. Joan’s Boutique has been voted ‘The Best Woman’s Boutique/Clothing Store’ for six years in a row in the Union Democrat’s annual reader’s poll. She and her staff were recently voted Best Overall Customer Service. Joan’s Boutique 52 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1550 joansboutique.com

Let ‘eron’t Buck! just be part of the herd— start

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a stampede by visiting Let ‘er Buck a few doors down from the Four Corners intersection of Bradford & Washington streets. There’s a wide selection of new and

complete. Now that’s one-stop shopping! Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store 98 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-1400 quality consignment Western wear including belts, boots and hats. Let ‘er Buck also offers Selix Formal Wear, t’s always an adventure shopping at uniforms (EMS, FIRE, CHP, CDCR), as well Tradewinds. Their main focus is women’s as children’s clothing. Because they wear clothing: better and designer labels (no what they sell, you are getting first-hand knowledge of what works! They can outfit more than two years old, or classic, timethe able ranch hand as well as the next Ro- less styles) in new or like-new condition. deo Queen. They take exceptional care of They carry all accessories: belts, footwear, their customers, striving to provide the best hats, scarves and jewelry. They also have a value, selection, and service in the business. small consignment section for men, with an emphasis on Hawaiian and silk shirts. Let ‘er Buck has something for everyone. Let ‘er Buck Western Wear NEW LOCATION 68 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-1144

Tradewinds

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Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store f you’re looking for anything unique and

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useful for the kitchen, bath or garden, stop here first— and you’re likely to find it among their stock of kitchen gadgets, tools and accessories. They carry Nordic Ware, Chantal, BIA Cordon Bleu, Microplane, and more. Decorate a beautiful table with accent brands: TAG, Root Candles, April Cornell, and IHR paper napkins. Their indoor Market under the Awning offers a selection of gourmet jams, preserves, olive oils, baking mixes, spices, loose and bagged teas and seasonal treats to tempt you. Find your favorite fragrance from their complete line of Crabtree and Evelyn or the Home Thymes collection. Search their Garden section for the perfect accent for your entry, patio, or table. Sonora’s Favorite Kitchen Store also features a selection of Mt. Brow Wine and a selection of wine related products, gifts and gadgets. Customer Service is their specialty, with free gift-wrap on every purchase.They even offer a selection of greeting cards to make your gift exploresonora.com

Nearly all the home decor items you will see in the store are for sale on consignment. While not a vintage store, you will find a smattering of vintage couture pieces and traditional Hawaiian attire. Since they average over 100 new pieces to the floor daily, you just never know what you’ll find! Some favorite brands that you’ll find at Tradewinds are: Ann Taylor, Armani, Banana Republic, Brighton, Cache, Chicos, Liz Claiborne, Coach, Gucci, Anne Klein, and Ralph Lauren, to name a few! Tradewinds 63 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 588-8810 tradewindsconsignment.com


EXPLORE

Insuring our community since 1987 Business • Home • Auto Life • Health • Bonds (209) 533-0234

Mountain Home Gifts

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his unique gift store in Historic Downtown Sonora carries a wide selection of gifts, art, books and clothing that celebrate life in Sonora, the mountains and the surrounding small towns and foothill communities. If you’re walking, hiking, camping or exploring, there’s a collection of guidebooks related to the foothills, the Sierras,Yosemite National Park and the region. You can find reproductions of vintage signs posters, postcards and other memorabilia related to life in the foothills, mountains and Yosemite National Park. There is also a selection of books by local authors. Mountain Home Gifts also specializes in Sonora branded clothing and merchandise. They also have furniture that can be customized to reflect favorite memories of your visit, your cabin or home. Mountain Home Gifts

ter if you want to be bronzed for a special event, vacation or just because you want that tan, now! Addictions Spray Tanning will get it right each and every time without the harmful effects of UV tanning. Addictions Fashion features contemporary clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories for women and girls.They carry reasonably priced limited edition collections with new themes launched every week. Featured lines include Naked Zebra, H&G, Miss Chic, Color Story, BLVD, Nine Bird and Lush among many more favorites. Addictions is one of Sonora’s newest, trend-setting boutiques catering to your favorite addictions.

Addictions Spray Tanning & Fashion 128 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 617-3689 sunlessaddictiontanning.com e

87 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 533-5319

Addictions Spray Tanning & Fashion

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Sun B.E.A.M.S. Baby & Kids Boutique

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onora’s first and only spray tanning saun B.E.A.M.’s is your one-stop shop for lon uses vegan-certified, organic spray stylish clothing, shoes and accessories tanning ingredients. At Addictions, evfor baby (up to size 12), diaper bags, ery customer is important, so they make baby skin care, and one of a kind gift items. sure that you look your best and that the This is the perfect place to shop and regcolor compliments your natural skin tone and is perfect after every session. No mat- ister for any occasion.

sonorachamber.org

The owners (all moms) feature B.O.B. Strollers, Citizens of Humanity Maternity Jeans, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Charlie Rocket and Mud Pie, plus many more brands. For the expectant mom, Sun Beams carries maternity clothing as well. Sun Beam’s Baby & Kids Boutique 136 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-5800 sunbeamsboutique.com

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the good life dining & specialty

A & Mgreat Custom Framing frame does more than protect

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the artwork it surrounds. It enhances and adds a personal touch to an entire room. A&M strives to work with our customers to create a design that is unique to their own personal decorating style.

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We offer a large selection of custom frames, ready-made frames, and quality matting in a wide variety of colors with experience in all aspects of custom framing including canvas stretching, needlework, pastel, photography, prints, sports memorabilia and shadow boxes.

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Visit us at 228 North Washington Street, just past the Red Church.We look forward to helping you creatively preserve all your precious memories and fine art. A&M Custom Framing 228 North Washington Street Sonora, California 95370 209-532-7411 aandmcustomframing@gmail.com Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Tuesdays & evenings by appointment.

If the shoe fits

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owntown Shoes is a foot-weary welcome to Historic Downtown Sonora as a new full service shoe store. Downtown Shoes specializes in comfortable and stylish shoes, boots and sandals for both men and women, along with a fun selection of socks and handbags.They pride themselves on the quality of their product lines. Close to Yosemite National Park, they offer you an opportunity to get yourself a quality pair of hiking, tramping, stomping or plain walking shoes for your exhilarating excursion into our wilderness, or just in and around town.

The owners, Rick and Melody, pride themselves on providing exceptional service and making sure all of their customers are properly fit in comfortable, yet stylish footwear. They also cater to the working men of the area with Red Wing and Wesco work boots, and if you don’t see what you need, they will be a happy to special order them for you. If you don’t live in the area, just give them a call or send an email, as they also offer free shipping within the continental United States. Downtown Shoes 4 S. Washington St. (209) 532-2500 4downtownshoes.com 4downtownshoes@gmail.com

your tastes. The front part of the store is a boutique, while the back half of the store is a dedicated consignment shop, with something to fit every budget, every taste and aspiration. As you wander through the shop, favorite things might happen to catch your eye. Certainly some of the unique jewelry that is offered, and many pieces that you’ll realize couldn’t be gotten elsewhere, and you’d best get them now, because you’ll never find them again. From the art lining the historic stone walls, to the beautiful display of clothing suited for a high-end boutique in San Francisco, Lauren and Lissa have made their shop into something that any woman is sure to enjoy. And it’s in Sonora of all places. According to the owners of Backspace, “We created it with love...and passion for a beautiful 1880’s gold rush building, and filled it with lovelies. Soft, timeless, versatile, wear-in-any-season pieces for your wardrobe. Along with vintage furnishings, local art, accessories, artisan jewelry (including a Jewelry Bar, where you can custom design your own pieces), or have something extra special made by us! Come in.You won’t be sorry...” Backspace: A Retail Retreat 67 South Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-4894 continued on page 14

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he shop is lovely. It’s filled with one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists as well as clothing, art and accessories that have a definitive feel. The first thing you’ll notice when walking in, is the atmosphere that Lauren Hurley and Lissa Anderson, the owners, have created. The space is warm and inviting, offering an unparalleled experience for its shoppers. You’ve reached their promise and are now part of their vision of the shop; a retail retreat. Along with vintage furnishings, local art, accessories and jewelry, you’ll be sure to find clothing suitable to exploresonora.com

• APPAREL • SHOES • ACCESSORIES • MANICURES • PEDICURES • FACIALS • WAXING • BEAUTY PRODUCTS

OPEN 7 DAYS 108 South Washington St. Downtown Sonora 209.588.8899


EXPLORE

the good life Europa Deli, Sports Bar & Grill

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he story of the Europa as an iconic downtown Sonora restaurant begins nearly a century ago, yet the newest chapter of this famous eatery begins now, after months of painstaking renovations with the return of the new, ‘old’ Europa under what is now the 3rd and 4th generations of Bezaitis family operaEvan Ethan Harrington enjoys a Europa favorite. Inset pnoto:1/4lb. tion. Owner’s Larry and Brenda have taken the restaurant to its bacon cheeseburger & homehighest level of perfection with made fries, $6.99

Sweet Spinach Salad with tossed baby greens, shredded green apples, sliced red pears, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, gorgonzola crumbles with a special balsamic vinigrette, french bread $8.25 Wine paring, Twisted Oak 2009 Tempranillo

a refreshing ambiance and relaxed atmosphere, coupled with an extensive menu that includes most all of the famous home cooked favorites along with a wide mix of modern, heart healthy menu items. While many of the old ‘comfort’ foods the Europa is famous such as the generous selection of for have already generated legions dazzling salads, old fashioned deli of repeat business with the locals, sandwiches, Gyros, soups, and vegso have the many added items etarian and vegan selections. The Europa uses nothing but the finest ingredients and strives to also feature many of Tuolumne County’s locally grown and crafted produce, olive oils, seasonings, wines and saucNational Hotel es, and pies. & Restaurant From the return of the famous Europa quarCalifornia Fine Dining ter-pound hamburger with homemade fries, Price Range: $$$ Full Bar or the hand-cut and always fresh chicken fried Jamestown steak with homemade mashed potatoes and (209) 984-3446 homemade gravies, along with some of Sonora’s finest steaks to the heart=healthy items also now available, there is now a great selection for every appetite. Clean, refreshing and comforting atmosphere, friendly wait staff, quality foods and low prices. Welcome back to the Europa! Come in and enjoy your choice of a retro-modern diner Sonora Joe’s era dining room or our cozy sports bar with Coffee House 65” LED TV and a great selection of appetizLight Fare ers. Don’t have time to sit? Try a picnic basPrice Range: $ 140 S. Washington St. ket for your next outdoor adventure with our (209) 840-4408 deli sandwiches or a mix of our fine meats and cheeses. The Europa also offer off-sale beer and wine to fully compliment your day!

Dining Guide

Artisan Pizza Price Range: $$ 83 S. Stewart St. (209) 533-0773

Be Wok & Sushi Japanese/Chinese Price Range: $$ Beer & Wine 764 E. Mono Way (209) 532-2638

Carl’s Jr. Burgers/Salad Bar Price Range: $ 1075 Mono Way (209) 533-8857 Christopher’s Ristorante Price Range: $$ Beer & Wine 160 S. Washington St. (209) 533-2600 Diamondback Grill Price Range: $$ Full Bar/Wine Bar 93 S. Washington St. (209) 532-6661

Emberz Wood-fired Pizza Full Bar/Wine Price Range: $$ 177 S Washington St. (209) 532-2272 Europa Deli & Grill California Grill (209) 402-3371 (see article this page) Groveland Hotel’s Cellar Door California Fine Dining Price Range: $$$ Full Bar/Wine Cellar 18767 Main St. Groveland (209) 962-4000

It’s Yo-Good Yogurt Salads/Sandwiches Price Range: $$ 11 S. Washington St. (209) 785-1188 Legends Historic Soda Fountain Price Range: $ 131 S. Washington St. (209) 532-8120 Lighthouse Deli Soup, Salads, Sandwiches 28 S. Washington St. Price Range: $$ Dine In/Take Out Delivery (209) 532-1631

Seven Sisters California Fine Dining Price Range: $$$ Full Bar Black Oak Casino 19400 Tuolumne Rd. Tuolumne (209) 928-9314 Talulah’s Upscale Comfort Food Price Range: $$ Beer & Wine 13 S. Washington St. (209) 532-7278

All menus subject to change without notice. sonorachamber.org

Europa Deli, Sports Bar & Grill California Grill/Full Bar/Wine Bar Price Range: $$ /Dine In/Take Out 273 S. Washington St., Sonora (209) 402-3371 Half DomeWedge: A generous chunck of iceberg lettuce, Blue Cheese Dressing, topped with crumbled bacon, avacado, grape tomatoes, with a drizzle of balsamic vinagrette. $8.50 Photographed in natural light, an homage to Ansel Adams.

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Pinecrest Lake

mild adventures including two bald eagles who like to nest in the area when the summer crowds dissipate. It was a majestic sight to see this pair soaring above us in the clear blue sky. We had seen eagles before on vacations in Yellowstone National Park and Alaska, but we felt extremely grateful that we could find them here so close to home. It was a magical moment for all of us, including our young daughter who had never seen eagles and was mesmerized by

A Vacation in Our Own Backyard By John P. DeGrazio, Yexplore.com e were looking for a mild adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest on a balmy mid-winter day. Having moved from the East Coast, e 10 we were not accustomed to bright skies and temperatures that could reach into the sixties so early in the year. We packed a picnic lunch, loaded up the Jeep, and made a thirty mile trip east on Highway 108 from Sonora to Pinecrest. he forty-five minute drive was incredibly scenic and passed through some charming towns we have since discovered as several fun places to stop for food along the way, including two family favorites, Alicia’s Sugar Shack and Pie in the Sky Pizzeria. e arrived at lunchtime and set up our blanket full of tasty treats on the beach of Pinecrest Lake. We followed our satisfying meal with a stroll along the shoreline trail with our dog. Yes, Pinecrest is dog-friendly and your pooch may accompany you in the day use area from September 15 to May 15. It was a remarkable setting; a pristine, sandy beach nestled in the pines. We were practically all alone and only ran into a few other hikers who were also taking advantage of the unexpected warm weather. As we made our way down the trail, we were greeted by some of the locals,

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their flight. ince that day, we have returned to Pinecrest many times in every season. throughout the years. At 5,679 feet above sea level, it has become a great escape from Sonora’s summer heat, and we have taken advantage of so many wonderful activities that provide fun for the entire family. The four-mile-hike is perfect for our daughter, who is now eight, to share

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this world of nature with her two-yearold sister. She was inspired so much that she developed an annual summer program to explore the area’s rich natural history with a pair of binoculars, a field guide, and some of her classmates who spend time identifying birds, wildflowers, and other critters we encounter along the way. This pleasant stroll around the lake is often followed by a refreshing swim. n special nights, we make the journey to watch movies under the stars at the Pinecrest Theater. Many popular films are selected for screening in this openair amphitheater. It’s a good idea to grab some dinner and your favorite blankets as the temperatures cool in the summer evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere full of wide-eyed children of all ages. It’s such a pleasant experience, and the theater sells popcorn and other refreshments to the delight of many. here is an abundance of other activities to try as well. At the marina there are boating opportunities for sailing and fishing. Pinecrest is famous for rainbow trout as the lake is stocked each year. Kayaking and paddle boarding have also become attractive options for those looking for a self-powered excursion. he hiking trails around the lake extend into other neighboring areas for a more rugged adventure with many variations of trails. Backpackers have the ability to make a trip to Kennedy Meadows or

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even Yosemite with the option of using an outfitter to make it a pack trip. Horseback riding is another popular activity for one or multiple days in the high country.Visitors of Pinecrest are also encouraged to bring their bicycles because there are many nearby mountain bike trails that range from gentle family rides to hard-core downhill runs. resort operates at Pinecrest Lake throughout the summer months. Facilities include lodging and campgrounds, along with a restaurant and general store. The resort also offers bicycle and boating rentals. Other amenities include snack stands, restrooms, and good parking access. e moved to Sonora for its proximity to Yosemite but have been pleasantly surprised by many other discoveries we have made along the way. We consider Pinecrest one of the crown jewels of the Sierra and consider every visit to be a vacation in our own back yard.

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Yexplore Yosemite Adventures. They offer professionally gded hiking tours and photography workshops in Yosemite National Park while encouraging park visitors to connect with the natural world of Yosemite through outdoor experiences that deliver unique photographic opportunities and lasting memories.

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isit John online at yexplore.com or call him at (800) 886-8009 for additional information.

Photographs in this article were provided by John DeGrazio. Email: tours@yexplore.com

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For more Wild & Mild Adventures in Tuolumne County please visit

A Different Perspective

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www.yexplore.com

ohn DeGrazio is the founder and lead naturalist guided for

Frozen Yogurt

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Senior Discounts 11 So. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am - 9 pm • Sun 11 am - 7 pm

(209) 532-6403 www.itsyogood.com

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keith impink F

or more than 30 years, California Bay Area native Keith Impink has provided professional art, signage and design services wherever needed. Currently, Impink serves as Rock ‘N Roll Imports creative director, overseeing Impink’s daughter, Andrea all day-to-day graphics projects, including logos and company image continuity, promotional materials, designing bottles and labels, web presence and assisting with events such as the Rock ‘N Roll Tequila Bus Tours. n school, Keith Impink studied film production and the arts, and throughout the years has studied under several accomplished artists. When asked, Impink commented, “I learned the most about art from an artist who had worked daily with Walt Disney going back to the late 1930’s— Joe Nunez taught me for years. e 12 He was the best artist I’ve ever met.” During those years Impink owned and operated a video arcade in a shopping center that doubled as an art studio, offering screen printing, art and signs. “I remember in college how much I wanted to build sets and do matte paintings,” says Impink. “But eventually I burned-out on that, so I began painting signs and murals, old barn roofs and even started traveling around illustrating those cartoon town maps.” n the late eighties, Impink began collaboration with renowned rock-poster art-

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artist profile ist Randy Tuten on concert posters, album covers and band projects for the music industry, including for the famous promoter Bill Graham. “He would have us screening stuff and hand painting leather jackets for band members... It was sad when he died,” says Keith, “He was buried in the Lynyrd Skynyrd jacket I hand-painted for him.” mpink has since worked with many promoters and venues creating posters and designs for some of the greatest legends in Rock and Roll including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Grateful Dead, Crosby, Stills, & Nash, Steve Miller, Doobie Brothers, Goo Goo Dolls, Jackson Browne, Buffalo Springfield, Bonnie Raitt, Nickelback, Colbie Callait, Lifehouse, Elvin Bishop, George Thorogood, The Tubes and even The Doors. “Randy and I have designed for Paul McCartney, The Black Crows, Tom Petty, Willie Nelson, Stone Temple Pilots and others...,” says Impink, “sometimes the designs get shelved, but not often.” Keith Impink is currently directing the creatives for a successful nationwide roll-out of Elvis Presley and Graceland licensed products. mpink’s experience encompasses marketing, branding, as well as building corporate identities. Impink worked closely with the Syfy Channel and USA Networks on the creation of their Anime-based social network. “It was important niche work, but not nearly as fun as designing for the NASCAR SuperTrucks lettering race cars or filming Indy races in 3D.” mpink lives in Copperopolis, a father of two and married for more than twenty years, has a deep passion for his varied interests such as stereoscopic photography, history and science, jamming with friends and painting. Impink has been commissioned to design logos and paint portraits and murals for many clients including entrepreneur Tony Robbins and American car legend Carroll Shelby. Impink’s

Impink at work on one of his distinctive murals. below portrait of John Lennon

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work continues to grow in demand by national magazines and featured in nationwide television campaigns and his artwork and prints are held in private collections worldwide. eith Impink’s brother Joe own’s Sonora Joe’s Coffee Shoppe in Historic Downtown Sonora, and also contributed his designs to the branding of the coffee house. Joe Impink has committed the coffee house to art exhibitions and open mic nights for local musicians, poets and authors. Both sons have espressed the influence of their mother, Diane, on the importance of supporting art, in all forms, in their community. Diane Impink is responsible for coordinating the arts events at Sonora Joe’s including Keith’s upcoming exhibit in June. and July.

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Wi-Fi • Premium Coffee

Keith Impink Art Show June 22-July 30 Hot & Cold Drinks Coffee 1.75 2.00 Latte 2.75 3.25 Mocha 3.25 3.75 Cocoa 1.75 2.25 Italian Soda 1.75 Frappe 3.75 Smoothie Soda Pop

2.25 3.75 4.25 2.75 2.75 4.75 4.00 1.25

• Flavors, Soy, Shots .50 • Iced Coffee Drinks available This Buffalo Springfield poster show marks the first time in 40 years that Neil Young played with them and their big reunion.

The public is invited to stop in and meet Keith at Sonora Joe’s on June 28th, 2013 during TGIF Sonora. Posters and artwork will be for sale during the exhibit.You can view Keith’s portfolio online at www.impink.com. All artwork is protected by copyright and trademark and appears here courtesy of the artist, Keith Impink.

This Lynyrd Skynyrd poster is significant because it was designed when the band finally got back together. It’s also the same design Impink hand-painted on jackets.

Sonora Joe’s Presents

Artist Keith Impink Exhibition: June 22nd thru July 30th

140 So. Washington St., Historic Sonora Call 209.533.4455 for details.

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ells Fargo & Co. was borne out of the California Gold Rush, an event that launched the greatest migration in American history. Virtually overnight,the sleepy seaport of San Francisco, located on sand dunes overlooking the Golden Gate, exploded from a non-native population of 800 in 1848 to more than 30,000 in 1851. As news of the gold discovery spread around the world, farmers left their crops, merchants shuttered their doors, and immigrants abandoned their homelands to journey thousands of miles to gold fields in the Sierra Foothills. Risking disease, danger and starvation, they came by clipper ship and steamer, by wagon train and on foot to seek their fortune in the gold fields.The pride of countless mining towns, the Wells Fargo agency was viewed as a link to the civilized world. Wells Fargo Bank has been serving Tuolumne County for over 150 years.

Wells Fargo & Co.

808 E. Mono Way, CA 95370 www.HeusersFurniture.com (209) 532-3106 37 S. Stewart Street • Downtown Sonora • 209-536-9834 sonorachamber.org www.wellsfargo.com

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209.533.4455 140 So. Washington St. Historic Sonora, CA


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the good

life

An Apple A Day

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trip to Indigeny is the perfect respite for the urban or outdoor explorer, intrepid eco-travelers, hard cider and brandy fans, families, groups, regional neighbors and international visitors. Indigeny is close to Yosemite, Twain Harte, Mammoth Hot Springs, and on the way to Kennedy Meadows and Pinecrest Lake. It’s only a few minutes uphill from historic downtown Sonora along Lyons Bald Mountain Road. In fact, it’s only three hours from the San Francisco Bay Area. Indigeny is devoted to creating the best hard ciders and spirits, bold and intensely flavorful. And they don’t forget that ‘an apple a day’ is still the best medicine. Indig-

the sounds of birds. The Indigeny Reserve mission is literal to their name and brand; “Indigeny,” indigenous, as “oc600 feet higher than his- curring naturally in a region or toric downtown Sonora, environment.” “Reserve” meannoticeably cooler in the ing “consecrated, to set aside or summer and refreshing- retain for a future time or place.” ly lush year-round.There They want to celebrate, share, and are 160 acres circled by renew nature’s bounty for genpine and fir trees. More erations to come. Experience this than 20,000 apple trees firsthand with a visit. blossom within the first The public is invited to visit few weeks of spring, Indigeny’s 26,000 sq. foot ciderand provide a spectac- works and distillery. ular sight equally as reThursday, Friday, Saturday markable as Daffodil 10:00 pm - 5:00 pm Hill at about the same Sundays 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm time every year in Ama14679 Summers Ln dor County. To witness this burst Sonora, CA 95370 of brightness among thousands of (209) 533-9463 apple trees is a breathtaking sight www.indigenyreserve.com to behold in early April. Although it doesn’t last long, cherishing this moment is a warming experience. Especially in anticipation of fall when tens of thousands of apples will ripen for hand-picking. The Indigeny Reserve orchard and grounds reveal the tender and devoted care of the Watson family and their staff of caretakers. Apple trees have grown on the hill since 1909. More than 53 varieties, like Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are familiar. However, there are uncommon varieties like Arkansas Black as well as the rare and sought-after Honey Crisp, the most desired apple on the market. What compels even greater interest in this endeavor is that Jay and Judy Watson and their son, Joe have committed themselves to organically grown ocated in the historic Naapples in an ecologically tional Bank Building on thoughtful environment. Indigeny shares the land the corner of Washington and with western kingbirds, Bradford, the Candy Vault takes great heron; acorn customers back a half-century, woodpeckers; raccoons; offering a feeling reminiscent of mountain lions; red- walking into a Norman Rockbreasted sapsuckers; well painting on the cover of live springs; a wetlands the Saturday Evening Post. pond; verdant meadows; A visit leaves one with a abundant pine; cedar; warm and comforting glow, reoak; dogwood; native assuring you that enjoying a bit ferns; and bear clover. of ice cream and candy might Indigeny follows the tradition of be a good thing after all. The new owners, John and our Colonial American ancestors of 300 years ago, when the most Brandi Ogle, share their enthupopular drink and spirits were siasm for their business with derived from apples, A walk on every customer saying, ‘Have the preserve reveals their success a sweet day,’ as they leave with with an indelible sense of well-be- a bag full of treats. The Candy ing one receives after a short time. Vault offers hard-to-find handIt’s a utopia of sorts replete with made chocolates and specialty pathways along a babbling stream, brands. They also now feature a covered wooden bridge, and only organic and even sugar-free deli-

explore

The Candy Vault 42 S. Washington St. Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-2388

The Candy Vault

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eny Reserve’s estate-crafted apple brandy is organic and sustainablyproduced. They use artisan double copper-pot distillation and use the traditional aging methods of Normandy, produced in small batches, which creates a uniquely elegant and mellow taste. It’s a deeply satisfying experience for both newcomer and connoisseur. Indigeny Reserve is nestled in the eastern foothills at 2,419 feet,

cacies. Be sure to stop by especially during the Holiday Season, as they will continue the tradition of Santa Stories through Christmas. Visit the Candy Vault and you’ll feel like a kid again.

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Emberz

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reat fast, fun food can be found at one of the best locations in historic Downtown Sonora. Emberz is now the hottest spot in town and probably the coolest place to be seen.The menu includes salads, burgers, sandwiches, pizza and entrees from Chef Andrew. Old is new again in the full bar, featuring classic cocktails that are made fresh with a delicious Emberz twist that you’ll have to discover for yourself. Emberz sparkles with enthusiasm and just beams food, drink and an evening of fun and good company. The wood-fired pizza oven just beyond the bar has not escaped the attention of the owners and is decorated with bits of colored glass and ceramic tiles by the entirety of the Emberz staff, which speaks to the commitment of everyone involved in a great dining experience. The restaurant is within a short walk to shopping and art galleries and is ideal for a preshow dinner or after-show cocktail, just two blocks from Stage 3 Theatre Company.

Emberz 177 S Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370 (209) 532-2272


THE ‘MOVIE STAR’ ER XAILROAD P L O R E FEATURING ENGINE NO. 3

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CALIFORNIA STATE HISTORIC PARK

1897

museum l bookstore l excursions l events l family fun l 209.984.3953 l www.railtown1897.org day (July 4th-7th) Spend time with family and friends at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park while you ride, tour, and experience steam trains, authentic railroad facilities, live music, and Hollywood film and television heritage. Things that are uniquely American! SINGING RAILS

SPOTLIGHT ON RAILTOWN RAILROAD MUSIC EVENT FUNDRAISER, JULY 20 AUGUST 3

WILDFLOWER TRAINS APRIL 20

Special afternoon Wildflower Train departs at 4:30 p.m. from the Railtown 1897 Depot on these two Saturdays only. Prior to boarding the train, passengers will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with wildflowers of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Once aboard the train, Naturalists from New Melones Reservoir will answer questions and point out wild-

Behind the Scenes at Railtown with local wineries serving amongst the locomotives, speeder rides, live music and lots of other surprises, followed tion of all things trains. We’ll by a special excursion train. have lots going on in and around the roundhouse, includ- RODS TO RAILS ing speeder demonstrations, JULY 27 equipment that is seldom seen, Join us for the 2nd Annual and the belt-driven machine Rods to Rails Car Show as Hot shop in operation. Rods take over the streets of Jamestown, and classic cars are MOTHER’S DAY on display on our shaded lawn. MAY 12 Bring a picnic, and enjoy a relaxing Mother’s Day at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Special treats for moms aboard regular steam-powered excursion trains when accompanied by a child. Trains depart on the hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND MAY 25, 26 & 27

Regular excursion trains depart Saturday, Sunday, and Monday over the holiday weekend, on the hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. all three days. Special demonstrations, motor cars and other activities are offered. flower groupings along the way. Guests take away wildflower seeds to spread at home. Train capacity is limited, and reservations are suggested. Regular steam-powered excursion trains also depart on-the-hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. this day.

NATIONAL TRAIN DAY MAY 11

FATHER’S DAY JUNE 16

Father’s Day at Railtown! Bring a picnic, and enjoy a relaxing Father’s Day at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Special treats for dads aboard regular excursion trains when accompanied by a child. Trains depart on the hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Join us to celebrate National 4TH OF JULY Train Day- an annual celebra- Trains Running Thursday-Sun-

sonorachamber.org

With Sourdough Slim & Red Dog Ash As long as there have been trains, there have been train songs to sing. An important part of the American Railroad experience, this type of folk music was created and performed by railroad workers, and the communities they lived in. Join us at Railtown for this unique event, which brings together the best of Cal- e 15 ifornia folk musicians.


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