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Old Sonoma loses one of its originals

Sonoma pioneer Bob Kunde – rancher, farmer, cattleman, and Sonoma County Trail Blazer – died Friday at the age of 80. He leaves his wife of 55 years, Leslie M. Kunde, and sons Jeff R., Keith L., and daughter Marcia M. and their families. He... Continue

Hospital strategic committee gives thumbs up to survey

There are lies, damn lies and statistics,’” said Dr. Clinton Lane, quoting Mark Twain at the Sonoma Valley Hospital’s July 16 strategic planning meeting. “I’ve been sitting here on this committee and listening to surveys, and most of the elections were lost,” he said. “This... Continue

Sanders announces re-election plans

One more candidate is needed to qualify Sonoma for a general City Council election, following Mayor Joanne Sanders’ announcement this week that she’ll seek a second term. “My family has given me their vote of support, now it’s time to see if the community appreciates... Continue

John McReynolds’ Florence idyll

John McReynolds The produce vendors at the San Ambrogio marketplace in Florence. My neighborhood is called Santa Croce, which is in Florence, Italy. I call it my neighborhood because I am staying in an apartment for a few weeks in this charming city. When my... Continue

Go for the water, stay for the food

Calistoga built its reputation as a tourist destination on mud. The area at the northern end of Napa Valley was already known for its mineralized hot springs water when, in 1952, John “Doc” Wilkinson figured that combining the water with the region’s abundant volcanic ash... Continue

The marriage of Abbott and Costello

The recent decision of the California Supreme Court affirming the right of same sex couples to legally marry marks a welcome step forward in affirming virtues of compassion, legal equity and benevolence. Of greater significance, it brings law into line with justice, recognizing that the... Continue

Obituaries

George F. Hellen died in Sonoma on July 15, 2008. George was the idolized husband of Elaine M. Hellen for 64 years. He was the adored father of Jim Hellen of Sonoma, Joe Hellen of Roseville, Joan Hellin of Santa Fe, N.M., John Hellen of... Continue

Six more Sonoma Valley businesses go green

A fresh new group of Sonoma Valley businesses are saving money and energy – and generating excitement among staff and customers – with their sustainable business practices. Barking Dog Roasters, El Pueblo Inn, Haus, Sonoma Valley Bank, Friedman’s Home Improvement, and Wine Country Film Society... Continue

Wine country footrace benefits local charities

Joseph Lemas Race winner Sergio Reyes crosses the finish line. Reyes’ finished the race in just over an hour. Over 2,300 runners and wine enthusiasts from all over the world participated in the Napa-to-Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon, which began at Cuvaison Carneros Estate Vineyards,... Continue