Under the Sun: Leslie Nicholson

The Sun's Sarah Ford recently sat down with Leslie Nicholson, founder of RISK, a Sonoma support group for parents whose kids face substance abuse, bullying, or other challenges. Tell me about RISK and how it got started. The idea for RISK, which stands for Resources,... Continue

Thoughts on the aftermath of the election

At times it is good to share one’ s thoughts and feelings about the world situation. It can connect us with others, help us see what we are thinking more clearly and simply venting often helps us feel better. On the other hand, thoughts and... Continue

Pure politics or purely the hunt?

Friends and readers, here I am once more, sharing my feelings in these turbulent times. Is this the moment to be fearful? Not at all. Even less is it a time to just be waiting for uncomfortable actions to be directed specifically at the Hispanic... Continue

Sonoma Valley’s impact on Standing Rock

It is my belief that local politics always have a role in national and international issues when they concern human rights issues that affect all of us. As an example, we can look to the historical precedent of apartheid-era South Africa, in which the world... Continue

School superintendent: next steps in school bond process

This election year marked the 95th anniversary of Sonoma Valley Union High School passing a bond to build the new Sonoma Valley High School. I’m excited to say the commitment to education prevails in Sonoma Valley with the passing of Measure E. To say I’m... Continue

Ways to keep your volunteers coming back

Volunteers are the lifeblood of most nonprofits. In fact, 85 percent of all nonprofits in the U.S. are run entirely by volunteers. Since nonprofits need so many volunteers to manage their programs, serve their clients, conduct their events, and participate in fundraising efforts, they are... Continue

Tax season is almost here — are you ready?

The Internal Revenue Service will begin accepting electronically filed income tax returns on January 23, 2017. But more than likely, you will not receive all of your tax filing documents by that day. Employers and providers of all third party documents such as W2s, 1098s,... Continue

County braces for big storm; sandbags available

The National Weather Service is currently forecasting a strong winter storm to pass over Sonoma County beginning Saturday and continuing through Monday. Heavy rainfall and some flooding of rivers and creeks is possible. The County is closely monitoring the situation, and is prepared to open... Continue

The political is personal

This week, I had an epiphany that is healing the post-election grief that many of us are experiencing every day. I realized that my electoral depression is about more than politics. It is about my own mortality. I grew up in the crucible of the... Continue

Highway 12 improvements: now and into 2017

As 2017 opens, I would like to wish all of you a Happy New Year and extend my gratitude for your support throughout these past four years. On January 10, I will be sworn in for my second term as your supervisor and for the... Continue