Earlier this week I attended Troop Fourteen’s Court of Honor in which six young men became Eagle scouts. The Boy Scouts of America has in interesting history and is rather dear to my heart. Growing up in San Francisco I spent every Tuesday evening in... Continue
Turning Stones
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
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
What do the Grateful Dead, Bear Flag Revolt, The Chosen Family, 8,000 year old Native American site, a Victorian estate, Camilo Ynitia and George McKale all have in common: Olompali State Historic Park. If you have never visited Olompali, there’s never been a better time... Continue
This week I rehash a column published May 6, 2010. The content extolls the virtues of Sonoma in the 19th-century, and a little like Camelot, one can’t find “a more congenial spot for happily-ever-aftering than here in” Sonoma. In “The Illustrated Atlas of Sonoma County,”... Continue
This week’s column focuses on taxes. I have written about the subject before and every April 15 I am reminded once again that I am a procrastinator. Procrastination, as far as taxes are concerned, could be a bad thing. Just ask Walter Anderson, considered one... Continue
It was all about gold and greed. The North American story and the search for gold began in the 15th century, with the explorations of Christopher Columbus. Columbus wasn’t the only explorer whose quest for riches stemmed from the adventures of one man, Marco Polo.... Continue
This week I continue to share my experiences turning stones in Egypt. I left St. Catherine satisfied and looked forward to relaxing while we made the three hour journey through the Sinai to coastal town of Dahab. Andrew and I came prepared with a snorkel... Continue
I have always had an insatiable desire to glimpse what’s on the other side of the mountain. Here in Sinai, I must make an important decision. Do I take my son Andrew beyond the safety of Sharm-el-Sheikh, a well-fortified tourist town situated on the Red... Continue