The hills of the 209 are once again alive with the sights, sounds and smells of spring. In this issue of 209 Magazine, we feature a number of ways to celebrate the season.

From Wampa Falls to Pinecrest Lake and the state’s newest park addition located on the confluence of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers, Dos Rios State Park, a few great places in the 209 are highlighted in this issue where you can get outside for a spring hike.

If viewing nature is more your cup of tea, then check out the Vally Focus regional artist exhibition at the Carnegie Arts Center in Turlock. The featured artists—aged 35 and younger with strong ties to the Central Valley—represent a diverse range of disciplines, including painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and photography.

Amador County is ready to light up the season with the Four Fires Food and Wine Festival in May, a one-of-a-kind event that blends wine, cuisine, and culture. Inspired by the traditions of four renowned wine regions—France’s Rhône Valley, Italy, Spain, and Heritage California—this event offers a unique chance to taste over 100 wines crafted by Amador’s acclaimed winemakers.

For those already hosting Easter or Mother’s Day brunch gatherings, we have put together a few scrumptious recipes to help with menu planning. These are just a few of the people, places and events featured in this issue of 209 Magazine.

We at 209 Magazine appreciate your time in reading this issue.   We welcome your comments, calendar events and stories. We hope you will support the businesses and charities that have chosen to partner with us. We appreciate them and look forward to being the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209.

Hank Vander Veen

Publisher/Owner 209 Magazine

hvanderveen@209magazine.com