We’ve all heard the latest silliness out of Texas: Gunmen attacked a so-called art exhibit depicting cartoons of the Prophet, M******d, sponsored by right-wingers, some of whom worry that Sharia Law will be imposed on Texas by President Obama. Ironically, typical Sharia Law punishments –... Continue
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Certain memes - persistent thematic constructs which achieve near ubiquity - emerge from the noisy background of culture and assume prominence for a long while, decades or even centuries. Democracy is one such meme, and it's been spreading through social contagion for several hundred years.... Continue
Preserving Sonoma's town character is a challenge. Describing that character generates a wide range of opinion; our world is complex and changeable, and Sonoma is not immune from the tidal forces of cultural and social transformation taking place around us. That said, however, certain characteristics... Continue
There was an audible gasp earlier this year when thieves reportedly stole bottles of very expensive wine from a prominent Napa restaurant. Immediately, readers wondered: What can possibly make a bottle of wine worth $5,000? Longtime Valley residents know the key ingredients of expensive wine:... Continue
The current discussions surrounding the topic of sustainability generally revolve around systems analysis and a scientific approach which evaluates resources, utilization rates, waste production, economies and other quantifiable and measurable elements. As far as this goes it's useful and necessary; a world of finite resources,... Continue
The other night I saw a car near my house with a huge dent in its back end and heard a dog crying inside, then a growling male voice yelling, “quiet.” After that there was no sound. I wondered how I could help make this... Continue
Last night’s City Council consideration of a proposal to remove Broadway’s oak trees was notable less for its action than the conduct of the City Council. Though only four could participate, Gary Edwards having stepped-down due to the proximity of property he owns to the subject... Continue
In my previous column, I reported upon the death of my father. After having just arrived in Cairo with my son James, I received the news that he was dead. With a little disbelief, after all, I just saw him, we chose to continue with... Continue
In spite of or possibly in reaction to California's worst drought in 120 years, I suddenly find myself surrounded by neighbors building swimming pools. Five homes within 200 feet already have pools and two more even closer have completed the construction phase and have moved... Continue
When the chips are down... like this week dealing with Comcast, plumbers running around the house, hospitals, nursing homes, the water company… I had to wonder. How do I work with my mind so I enjoy life while it is still difficult? The frustrations are... Continue