I love looking at old photographs of the Springs to imagine how it was in the heyday of its resort era. But nothing tops talking to someone who has lived here since then. Jan Schwarz moved to Boyes Hot Springs from San Pablo with her... Continue
Sonoma Sun
By Gina Cuclis A special concept in public education called “a community school” has been underway at El Verano Elementary School for about a year, and principal Maite Iturri said the program is achieving results. The concept of community schools was developed by the New... Continue
Sonoma Valley’s 11 public schools each recently received a $750 check from Republic of Thrift, a fun second-hand store on Highway 12 in Boyes Hot Springs that donates its profits to our local public schools. Sisters Jeannette Tomany and Michelle Mammini, whose children attend Sonoma... Continue
A recent announcement from Sonoma County Sheriff Steve Freitas is cause for concern for Springs residents. The sheriff announced on Facebook he is reducing services because his office is unable to fill positions, and is losing experienced deputies and staff to other counties and cities.... Continue
It’s been 30 years since the need to construct sidewalks along Highway 12 was first identified in the Springs’ redevelopment plan. So it’s exciting to finally see the project getting close to completion. Having personally been involved with this project since the early 1990s, I... Continue
Okay, I want my bicycle to go to my cousin Jim, but if Jim isn’t around then Marcy gets the bike but only if … I hear this all the time. Detailed estate plans that are unnecessarily complicated. Clients feel that their wishes have to... Continue
The editorial in the August 28 Sonoma Valley Sun, “The City of Boyes Hot Springs?” touched on what has become a topic of discussion at Springs Community Alliance meetings and among residents concerned about how decisions impacting our community are made. The topic has been... Continue
Today’s column includes updates on two county ordinances that will impact the Springs -- the vacation rental and tobacco retail license ordinances -- and a follow up on the façade improvements controversy. At what is expected to be a packed house, the Sonoma County Planning... Continue
The hottest controversy in the Springs right now is Sebastopol designer Rico Martin’s façade improvements on commercial buildings along Highway 12. The debate includes that Martin, being paid with taxpayers' money, was not held to the Highway 12 design guidelines in creating what is becoming... Continue
As a reminder, “Custodial” type accounts are IRAs (individual retirement accounts), ROTH IRA, 401(k), etc. and even life insurance, annuities and pensions. When you create these types of accounts you are required to sign a contract spelling out the terms of the account and often... Continue