The world seems quite chaotic lately. The government in Washington D.C. is polarized and paralyzed. The climate and weather patterns are changing in unpredictable ways. The stock market keeps hitting new highs, while the poorest in America hit new lows. Gun violence is rampant, addiction... Continue

Sonoma Valley residents are now experiencing a range of post-fire emotions, one of which is gratitude towards the first responders, and all their support teams, for saving the area from even more widespread destruction. These feelings of gratitude for the fire and safety personnel are... Continue

It's been a traumatic few weeks for Sonoma Valley; many now homeless, woodlands and grasslands denuded of ground-cover, unhealthy air, and an economy hit hard. The ripple effects of the Sonoma Valley Firestorm will continue for months, and so will the personal and social trauma.... Continue

Discussion before the City Council and on Facebook about wine tasting rooms on the Plaza always seem to include mention of The Free Market. This issue mirrors arguments one hears about the role of government nationally, i.e., should businesses be allowed to regulate themselves? This... Continue

Despite the aspirations of its General Plan, the policies and measures of its Development Code, its Planning Commission and its Planning Director, Sonoma’s development planning process is a mess. From homes too large, mansions on hilltops, ill-conceived commercial developments and impact analyses that defy common... Continue

The fastest growing population in America is that of people over 85. California is growing older too, and Sonoma Valley's senior population is increasing faster than the state average. Housing, transportation and social services that older people require are not keeping up. Demographically this is... Continue

Political office often breeds paternalism, an inclination to protect the public from disturbing information. Though seemingly well-intentioned, paternalism arises from distrust of citizens, the attitude that people are not mature or well-informed enough to handle the truth. Public office exposes elected officials to the underbelly... Continue