Sonoma Community Center still a cultural hub in the Valley

The Sonoma Community Center offers a broad range of cultural, educational and community service programs for people of all ages and interests. Its ceramics studio is especially popular, with artist-in-residence Xia Zhang sharing her talents with students of all ability levels.

Some events have grown so popular they are now presented off campus, like the free Thanksgiving dinner open to all and the Trashion Fashion show that draws attention to the center's emphasis on sustainable living. The center also sponsors the annual Fourth of July parade and the City Party, events that bring thousands of celebrants to the Sonoma Plaza.

Andrews Hall, the refurbished jewel of the center, offers live theater, musical productions and the annual Holiday Follies, with over-the-top costumes and seasonal fanfare.

Fall activities include a UFO lecture series, a weeklong Dia de Los Muertos celebration and new classes including creative movement for preschoolers, a memoir-writing course, a knitting program and specialty courses in acrylics, clay and ceramics.

The center's Gallery 212 will feature 'Faculty Spotlight' in October, an exhibit showcasing the work of two of its teaching artists, painter Dick Cole and ceramic glaze expert Chic Lotz.

Commemorative bricks, business sponsorships, in-kind donations, memberships and memorials also support the continued maintenance and restoration of the historic building and program offerings at the center.

Proceeds from the sale of 'Images of America: Sonoma Community Center' benefit the Center. Price is $20, $10 for current members, and free to new members.

More info: 276 E. Napa St., 938-4626, sonomacommunitycenter.org.