The Golden Chain Theatre can-can girls kicked off the annual Raymond Parade with high-stepping enthusiasm and a fierce determination to defy both gravity and the local gravel roads.

Flashing layers of ruffled petticoats and an impressive amount of feathery lace right in front of the historic General Store, the spirited troupe high-kicked so vigorously that several local mules paused mid-procession to reevaluate their own life choices.

Between the synchronized grunts, flying sequins, and the sheer acoustic power of ruffled skirts swishing at high noon, the gold rush era dancers proved that cardiovascular endurance is the true legacy of the Sierra foothills.

It was a glorious, high-energy spectacle of feathers, lace, and sheer determination that left the crowd cheering and the local farm animals deeply confused.