For many parents around the Valley, this is the week their little ones have waited for and dreamed of, for what seemed an eternity -- summer vacation. Throughout the summer there are endless events that promote history in one way or another. Do visit... Continue
Columnist
Why do people make such odd comments after the death of friends? It kind of throws me: “Oh well, she wasn’t into health foods and fitness” or “He stressed too much…” Maybe it’s true but isn’t it odd – blaming and criticizing dead community? Hey,... Continue
Richard Wagner, the German musical genius of dubious personal behavior, wrote and produced some of the most stunning and memorable operas ever performed. Among others, “The Flying Dutchman” and his “Ring Cycle” of four operas, running a combined total of over 20 hours, contain soaring... Continue
Dear Bonnie, I have some tax problems and find that I will soon have to deal with the people at the IRS. Needless to say, I’m terrified. Do you have any good advice for me? - Susan P, Sonoma Dear Susan, I’ve got plenty of... Continue
This week I discuss one of Sonoma’s own, Mr. Henry Weyl. While most simply pass by Weyl’s buildings extending from the corner of First Street West and Spain, specifically the Sonoma Hotel, Weyl was one of Sonoma’s mover and shakers in the latter part of... Continue
My children remind me daily that summer will soon be here. They are so excited, however, it will take but a few hours, once the last bell has rung, for them to scream out those dreadful words, “I’m bored.” For parents looking for an educational... Continue
A lthough nonprofit organizations are not required by law to publish an annual report, it can be an effective tool for the leadership of a nonprofit to share major accomplishments, recognize key supporters, and forge new partnerships. Plus, many philanthropic foundations and corporate giving programs are... Continue
We conventionally view causality moving from “Point A” to “Point B,” a straight line through which we can trace each step and assess responsibility. Even if we move from points “A” to “D” we still think in terms of lines of responsibility, which pass through... Continue
People love stories, particularly melodrama. Thus television programs like “Downton Abbey,” the mini-epic about changing manners and society set within a grand estate in the London countryside is less history than soap opera. Scriptwriters plot their dramas in terms of “narrative arc,” casting characters against... Continue
Spring has sprung, bees are buzzing and so are people. As birds bring tiny branches to my bird house, humans seem to want community, too. But, I notice that life can be lonely when we don’t connect with neighbors and loved ones, when we’re shunned... Continue