London's family tree

A year ago, the 400-year-old “Jack’s Oak” was thought to be on its last limb, and a wake of sorts was held for the majestic tree that has come to symbolize the natural beauty of Jack London State Historic Park. As it turns out, the... Continue

Local reps push to ban GE fish

Calling current FDA actions inadequate, a bipartisan group including U.S. Reps Mike Thompson and Jared Huffman have introduced legislation to prevent genetically engineered (GE) fish from being sold in stores or released into the nation’s oceans. H.R. 394, the Prevention of Escapement of Genetically Altered... Continue

Cut down 17 Sonoma oak trees?

Some can’t see the forest for the trees. Others see trees and visualize sewer problems and lawsuits. The owner of Sonoma Courts Shops, Melissa Redmond, has asked the city to remove every tree – 17, to be exact -- on the east side of Broadway,... Continue

Readers Poll

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Protect Maxwell Farms Park

Editor: I have walked in Maxwell Farms Regional Park with and without a dog for more than 25 years. I enjoy walking in the natural areas and down to Sonoma Creek. I watch birds and get some light exercise on the rustic trails among the... Continue

Pier steps down as Boys & Girls Clubs chief

After eight years as executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley, David Pier has resigned, effective February 1. “It has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience, complete with successes/challenges and, most importantly, with deep and lasting impact for the youth of... Continue

Local reps push for ban on GE fish

Alcaldessa reception for Marcie Waldron

The City of Sonoma will honor Marcie Waldron, its 2015 Alcaldessa, at a January 29 reception at Vintage House. The a ceremonial title recognizes outstanding community service, and selfless, behind-the-scenes work for a nonprofit organization. Waldron’s has served as president of the Board of Directors... Continue

An immersive experience

How does water shape us, and how do we shape water? For “Watermark,” multiple-award winning filmmakers Jennifer Baichwal and Nick de Pencier, working with photographer Edward Burtynsk, traveled the world to document human interaction with water. Good (rice terraces, as shown above; pristine wetlands), bad... Continue

El Verano man killed in Highway 12 crash

El Verano resident John Daman Hatley, 55, was killed November 16 when his Porsche Boxster veered into oncoming traffic on Highway 12 near Dunbar Road in Glen Ellen. California Highway Patrol said Hatley had been speeding and driving erractically before losing control of his vehicle... Continue