An Interview with Rebecca Hermosillo, Supervisor Elect

Born and raised in Sonoma Valley, Rebecca Hermosillo will take office on January 6, representing the First District on the Board of Supervisors after a decade as a staff member for Fourth District Congressman Mike Thompson. The Sun's Anna Pier talked with her about her... Continue

Under the Sun: Wayne Schake, new Alcade of Sonoma

Wayne Schake (pron. "shockey") has been named Honorary Alcalde by the City of Sonoma for 2024. The avid Rotarian sat down to talk with the Sun's Anna Pier about his journey of 88 years. Congratulations. Thank you. It's of course an honor, but honestly, it's... Continue

Under the Sun: Shannon Lee, Glen Ellen catalyst

Anticipating the annual Glen Ellen Village Fair, The Sun’s Anna Pier met with Fair Association President Shannon Lee to learn about the upcoming Fair, as well as Lee's many interests and accomplishments. How long have you been involved with the Glen Ellen Village Fair? I've... Continue

Under the Sun: Jennifer Gates, community development director

The Sun's Anna Pier sat down with the City of Sonoma's Community Development Director to find out what she and the new department are all about. You and your position are both new? I began June 22 in this position that the City Manager and... Continue

Under the Sun: Penny Byrd, Popo the Clown

After 42 years in costume, Penny Byrd – a.k.a. Popo the Clown – will retire after the Tuesday Night Farmers Market on August 8, where she will be honored. Here she talks with The Sun’s Anna Pier about her start, life as a beloved clown... Continue

Under the Sun: Francisco Kilgore, aspiring journalist

Aspiring journalist, nonprofit worker, and local radio host, the people-curious Kilgore will attend the Columbia School of Journalism this fall. The Sun’s Anna Pier checks in. How did you get into interviewing people? For my senior thesis in anthropology at George Washington University on... Continue

Under the Sun: Christian Cameron, go-kart racer

Several years ago, Christian Cameron, now 13, left school and started doing an online home study program. This change provided him the freedom and flexibility to pursue his growing passion for racing go-karts – smaller, simpler versions of race cars. Christian has now traveled all... Continue

Under the Sun: Sandy Sanchez, program director at La Luz

Sandy Sanchez, 31, talks with The Sun’s Anna Pier about growing up in Sonoma and her commitment to La Luz Center, the primary nonprofit providing support to the Valley’s Latinx community since 1985. You're Sonoma, born and raised. Technically I was born in Santa Rosa,... Continue

Under the Sun: Dr Jeanette Rodriguez-Chien, new school superintendent

Jeanette Rodriguez-Chien will take office on July 1 as SVUSD's Superintendent. Here she talks with the Sun's Anna Pier about her confidence in working together to address the many issues facing the District, and her high hopes for the students and the community. You're currently... Continue

Under the Sun: Aman Garg, independent pharmacist

Aman Garg plans a grand opening of the new Adobe Drug, in the former Sonoma location of Pharmaca, on June first. Here he talks with the Sun's Anna Pier about his new venture, and the story behind his life journey from India to Sonoma. Where... Continue

Under The Sun: Interviews