Trusts are assets, at least you should think of them that way. Trusts are like any other assets we own -- they must be maintained after we buy them. If you keep them tuned up and give them some TLC, you’ll get more out of... Continue
Sonoma Sun
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 11 for an opportunity to engage in a community dialogue with Sonoma County Sheriff Steve Freitas. The Sonoma Valley Grange and I are hosting Sheriff Freitas at a community meeting to discuss local public safety and law enforcement issues.... Continue
Many California residents own real estate outside of the state. They may have a second home in Arizona, an investment property in Oregon, a shared condominium in Nevada or a timeshare in Hawaii. Why is this important? Because your state of domicile, which is the... Continue
Since the early 1990s residents of the Springs have been advocating an off-highway bike path from Maxwell Farms Regional Park to Flowery School and Larson Park. According to the Sonoma County Regional Parks Department, the path will finally be completed in the summer of 2015.... Continue
One question I often get is, “When should I update my estate planning documents?” While there is no hard and fast rule, there are some suggestions about when you should consult with your attorney or simply review the documents yourself to see if they need... Continue
Improving the Springs isn’t just an infrastructure issue. It’s a people issue. The foundation of that people issue is how we address the needs of our community’s children. To help children succeed in school, Sonoma County educators and child welfare organizations are paying particular attention to third grade literacy. A 2011... Continue
In the age of the internet, just about anything you can think of (and quite a few things you wouldn’t dream of) can be bought, sold, prepared or conceived of online. Not surprisingly, you can even prepare your estate plan online. But should you? Right... Continue
In the spirit of our multi-cultural community, two Yemenis brothers have bought the iconic Fruit Basket produce stands from two Greek brothers. After decades of owning and operating the Fruit Baskets in Boyes Hot Springs and Schellville, brothers Gus and Marco Dalakiaris are ready to retire. They have sold the produce stores... Continue
I am honored that Val Robichaud, the editor of this newspaper, has given me the opportunity to write a monthly column about my community — the Springs. By the Springs, I mean the unincorporated towns of El Verano, Boyes Hot Springs, Fetters Hot Springs and Aqua... Continue
By definition, if an estate plan is triggered, it is because of the death or serious disability of a family member or close friend. Therefore, most estate plans are administered during periods of great grief and mourning. Those who survive the deceased are charged not... Continue