The role of government in a democracy has always been a matter of contention. Should government’s primary effort be the protection of individual liberty or the protection of the common good? Proponents of the former believe the protection of individual liberty includes defending private property... Continue
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Sometimes not returning a text is so easy. You can tell yourself to let things go and sometimes that’s okay. I mean, it’s a good thing to let things slide. Until they become a landslide. These days it’s called “ghosting.” Some people drift away, off... Continue
On January 29, your correspondent attended a State of the Valley presentation at the Sebastiani Theater in Sonoma, hosted by the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce. It featured a recap of 2025, visions for 2026 and presentations by Congressman Mike Thompson, state Senator Christopher Cabaldon... Continue
After David Bolling called me late last Friday night about writing this column, I was definitely awake when President Donald Trump launched his war on Iran very early Saturday morning. I watched the updates for hours. I am a newshound, but I am also a... Continue
As Donald Trump basks in the glow of his unauthorized assault on Iran, countless victims of his alleged illegal assaults against women are publicly wondering if the Middle East war he has started is not a diversion from the one he can’t escape at home. ... Continue
The media is on fire about the Epstein files, and rightfully so. The files reveal the way an entire class of men – wealthy, celebrated, entitled – routinely connected with each other to share contacts, socialize and enjoy themselves, often at the expense of others.... Continue
When we first moved to the Sonoma Valley in 2002, I had a naive view of the town of Sonoma and the valley. I thought with chickens on the plaza, small locally owned shops and restaurants, it was a place frozen in time, different from... Continue
Hilary Campbell is a New Yorker magazine cartoonist, author and humorist. She also happens to have been born and raised right here in Sonoma. Continue
“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” Alice Walker More people are withdrawing from conversations about politics now. Some say, “It doesn’t do any good.” Others whisper, “It’s too stressful.” I get it. We have to... Continue
By Loretta Carpio Carr At a time when there is so much worry, sadness, and anger, I find that I need to engage in inspiring activities to maintain my motivation and happiness. For me, music... Continue