SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking HEALDSBURG, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE Healdsburg, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE DAVID ROSEN is a West County musician, singer, songwriter and producer. His debut album, Ordinary Miracles, is a retrospective of 35 years of songwriting and features the legendary Joe Vitale on drums. “An exciting collection of 17 original songs and 2 classic covers, spanning an eclectic range of styles. WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The benefits of compost as mulch not only increase organic matter and nutrients in your soil, it also protect your home, and your neighbor’s homes, from fire. And when winter rains start, the rain leaches those nutrients into the soil while it protects soil from the pounding of raindrops falling thousands of feet from the sky to hit

like tiny

SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking HEALDSBURG, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE Healdsburg, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE DAVID ROSEN is a West County musician, singer, songwriter and producer. His debut album, Ordinary Miracles, is a retrospective of 35 years of songwriting and features the legendary Joe Vitale on drums. “An exciting collection of 17 original songs and 2 classic covers, spanning an eclectic range of styles. WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The benefits of compost as mulch not only increase organic matter and nutrients in your soil, it also protect your home, and your neighbor’s homes, from fire. And when winter rains start, the rain leaches those nutrients into the soil while it protects soil from the pounding of raindrops falling thousands of feet from the sky to hit

like tiny

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: JUNE 2021 Soon, we will arrive at the great patriotic day in July, with hopefully a sigh of relief. But I have news for the mayors, parade organizers, country singers, veterans, political candidates, and chamber of commerce gurus who will once again be crowing loudly about “our democracy.” Every real CELEBRATE PRIDE WITH YOUR SONOMA COUNTY LIBRARY This month, the library is honoring Pride with virtual programs and events, summer Take & Make craft kits, booklists for all ages, community resources, and more. COVID RESTRICTIONS LIFT; BUSINESSES OPEN IN SONOMA COUNTY Sonoma County will remain in the purple tier under the Blueprint for a Safer Economy, meaning many restrictions will remain in place. Under the purple tier, outdoor gatherings are permitted with up to three households and personal care businesses can open with modifications. DAVID ROSEN, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE DAVID ROSEN is a West County musician, singer, songwriter and producer. His debut album, Ordinary Miracles, is a retrospective of 35 years of songwriting and features the legendary Joe Vitale on drums. “An exciting collection of 17 original songs and 2 classic covers, spanning an eclectic range of styles. FOGLINE MUSICIANS GUILD REMIND YOU: MASK UP AND GET YOUR Fogline Musicians Guild remind you: Mask up and get your ’Fauci Ouchie’. After the fun and success of their famous and well-loved first releases, including ’Use the Turnouts’ and ’Don’t Cross that Line,’ the Sonoma Coast septet known as the Fogline Musicians Guild is at it again with a new message and video for the community:

Get

TO BE BLACK IN SONOMA COUNTY To be Black in Sonoma County. Sonoma County prides itself on being a bastion of liberal, free-thinking, empowering and open-minded people. But the last four years in this country—culminating with the insurrection at the Capitol—continue to expose the intense undercurrent of racism and white supremacy movements that are very

much alive.

SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSOLIDATION WILL NOT SAVE EL MOLINO HIGH School district consolidation will not save El Molino High School (and neither will higher taxes) JIM HORN. January 29, 2021. The idea of consolidating the West County’s two main high schools into one isn’t new, though some claim it is. As a FAQ on the high school district website puts it, “The conversation about consolidation of

our 2

BIDEN VS.TRUMP. HOW THEY DIFFER ON IMMIGRATION POLICY Originally published Oct 4, 2020. The coming Presidential election will be critical to the path of immigration policy in America. There are vast differences between Donald Trump and his opponent, Joe Biden, on the subject of immigration, and the stakes could not be higher for immigrants and those who care about them. AUSTIN CREEK: THE CANARY OF CAZADERO The Russian River provides a water highway for our migrating fish and water bird that enter Austin Creek. This creek drains an enormous area north and east of Cazadero, with dozens of tributary creeks, many of which are potential spawning ground for salmon and steelhead trout. All along the creek many birds thrive: the creek provides their food LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking HEALDSBURG, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE Healdsburg, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

JASPER’S IN SEBASTOPOL OPENS UP UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Favorite BAR Jasper’s in Sebastopol Opens Up Under New Management. Jasper’s, the reinvented space in the Jasper O’Farrell building in downtown Sebastopol, announced today the bar will celebrate a Grand Opening event on February 15, 2020 with Jam’s Joy Bungalow food truck serving up delicious SE Asian fare, live jams from SCHLEE, and cocktail specials throughout the evening. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking HEALDSBURG, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE Healdsburg, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

JASPER’S IN SEBASTOPOL OPENS UP UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Favorite BAR Jasper’s in Sebastopol Opens Up Under New Management. Jasper’s, the reinvented space in the Jasper O’Farrell building in downtown Sebastopol, announced today the bar will celebrate a Grand Opening event on February 15, 2020 with Jam’s Joy Bungalow food truck serving up delicious SE Asian fare, live jams from SCHLEE, and cocktail specials throughout the evening. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: JUNE 2021 Soon, we will arrive at the great patriotic day in July, with hopefully a sigh of relief. But I have news for the mayors, parade organizers, country singers, veterans, political candidates, and chamber of commerce gurus who will once again be crowing loudly about “our democracy.” Every real EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

EARTH DAY INCLUDES THE BURIAL OF A CAR Earth Day includes the burial of a car. LESLIE GRAVES. VOICE FOR EVENTS AND SOCIAL CAUSES, EVENT PRODUCER DEDICATED TO COMMUNITY, INCLUSIVITY AND EQUALITY. April 1, 2021. As part of the first Earth Day in 1970, San Jose State College (SJSC) students pushed a brand-new, never-started Ford Maverick, from the dealer's lot to the

center of campus

COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We decide how life shall be on this planet 100 years from now by what we do in the next few minutes, what we think of tonight, tomorrow and from what we choose to set into motion, choose wisely, choose harmony, choose clarity, chooseLove. ~ Maestro Marcos Emiliano Zapatero. P.S. SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. TO BE BLACK IN SONOMA COUNTY To be Black in Sonoma County. Sonoma County prides itself on being a bastion of liberal, free-thinking, empowering and open-minded people. But the last four years in this country—culminating with the insurrection at the Capitol—continue to expose the intense undercurrent of racism and white supremacy movements that are very

much alive.

JASPER’S IN SEBASTOPOL OPENS UP UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Favorite BAR Jasper’s in Sebastopol Opens Up Under New Management. Jasper’s, the reinvented space in the Jasper O’Farrell building in downtown Sebastopol, announced today the bar will celebrate a Grand Opening event on February 15, 2020 with Jam’s Joy Bungalow food truck serving up delicious SE Asian fare, live jams from SCHLEE, and cocktail specials throughout the evening. LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks KICKING OFF BEAR SEASON IN SONOMA VALLEY The black bears are here. Over the past five years, more and more black bears have shown up on wildlife cameras rambling throughout the back country of Sonoma County and the North Bay. Recently bears made the news when ambling into backyards and towns such as Cotati and Sebastopol in search of food WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks KICKING OFF BEAR SEASON IN SONOMA VALLEY The black bears are here. Over the past five years, more and more black bears have shown up on wildlife cameras rambling throughout the back country of Sonoma County and the North Bay. Recently bears made the news when ambling into backyards and towns such as Cotati and Sebastopol in search of food WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: JUNE 2021 Soon, we will arrive at the great patriotic day in July, with hopefully a sigh of relief. But I have news for the mayors, parade organizers, country singers, veterans, political candidates, and chamber of commerce gurus who will once again be crowing loudly about “our democracy.” Every real EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. SANTA ROSA: CELEBRATING, CONSERVING AND CREATING COMMUNITY Paradise Ridge Winery is resuming their award-winning event series, Wine & Sunsets with Live Music on Wednesday evenings, starting June 2nd through October 27th. This is definitely something to celebrate. The event is tucked away in the Fountaingrove hills of Santa Rosa at TO BE BLACK IN SONOMA COUNTY To be Black in Sonoma County. Sonoma County prides itself on being a bastion of liberal, free-thinking, empowering and open-minded people. But the last four years in this country—culminating with the insurrection at the Capitol—continue to expose the intense undercurrent of racism and white supremacy movements that are very

much alive.

SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSOLIDATION WILL NOT SAVE EL MOLINO HIGH School district consolidation will not save El Molino High School (and neither will higher taxes) JIM HORN. January 29, 2021. The idea of consolidating the West County’s two main high schools into one isn’t new, though some claim it is. As a FAQ on the high school district website puts it, “The conversation about consolidation of

our 2

THE RUSSIAN RIVER ESTUARY OPENS WITH SELF BREACH An estuary is where a river meets the ocean. The mix of freshwater from the river and saltwater from the sea creates a dynamic environment that supports a broad array of fish, wildlife, and invertebrate and plant species. In the past, Sonoma Water mechanically breached the sandbar, this year the barrier beach at the mouth of the Russian River breached on its own late in the afternoon on

STRONG SURVIVAL

The documentary “Strong Survival” was released in June 2017. This 30-minute film documents Maya’s experiences with trafficking from the ages of 12 to 18, exploring the psychological and physical harm human trafficking has on victims. Strong Survival also features interviews with law enforcement members of the Sonoma County Human RESOURCES AVAILABLE NOW TO FIRE SURVIVORS, FEMA ASSISTANCE FEMA: The Administration has approved a major disaster declaration for the LNU Lightning Complex in Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties. The declaration provides a number of programs to assist individuals, households and businesses, along with assistance for public agencies and selected non-profits that have participated in response efforts. SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

OPINION: STOP EMPOWERING PREDATORS LIKE FOPPOLI Opinion: Stop empowering predators like Foppoli. On the surface, Dominic Foppoli and I have a lot in common. We both grew up and attended private high schools in Sonoma County. We both owe much of our success to experience in family business. We both spent time in Active 20-30. We both have made attempts to influence the future of

Sonoma County.

WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE News, The Sonoma County Gazette features news articles and columns Written by Readers on political and social issues that impact our home in Sonoma County with news from local non-profits and government and stories on local businesses. HOW TO MASK AND MORE: COVID-19 UPDATES On April 27, 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new guidance for mask wearing for some relatively safe activities, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. The CDC says everyone can engage in the following activities without wearing masks: Walking, running, hiking, or biking EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. NEW MURAL CELEBRATES SONOMA COUNTY April 21, 2021. Security Public Storage (SPS) announces the unveiling of a spectacular new 2100-sq ft mural honoring Santa Rosa’s unique heritage on Thursday, April 22nd at 4:00pm. The Chamber of Commerce and City of Santa Rosa officials will join the beloved long-time local SPS managers in the celebration. [Event will be outdoors, with masks COVID VACCINE CLINICS TO OPEN IN GUERNEVILLE AND SEBASTOPOL West County Health Centers is a private, non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving 15,000 patients in western Sonoma County with (7) sites located in Guerneville, Occidental, Sebastopol, and Forestville. West County Health Centers service area covers 750 square miles stretching from Fort Ross to Valley Ford and

from the

OPINION: STOP EMPOWERING PREDATORS LIKE FOPPOLI Opinion: Stop empowering predators like Foppoli. On the surface, Dominic Foppoli and I have a lot in common. We both grew up and attended private high schools in Sonoma County. We both owe much of our success to experience in family business. We both spent time in Active 20-30. We both have made attempts to influence the future of

Sonoma County.

WEST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL CLOSURE FROM AN EQUITY PERSPECTIVE West County high school closure from an equity perspective: Why rush? We often hear that combining our two West County high schools is inevitable because of declining enrollment. The West Sonoma County High School District can afford to delay consolidation of our high schools by a year in order to make sure something this complicated and SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

THE FIRE-RESISTANT BENEFITS OF USING COMPOST AS MULCH IN The Fire-Resistant Benefits of using Compost as Mulch in your Landscape. I learned something else last October after the fires when I attended a fire summary put on by our local fire departments and CalFire. BARK catches fire and flies in the wind as EVENTS GUIDE, SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE WELCOME to the Gazette’s NEW CitySpark-powered calendar! If you would like to post an event, please click the “+Add Event” button below. You will need to register if you have not posted to CitySpark in the past - don’t worry, it’s painless, just follow the prompts. SANTA ROSA: CELEBRATING, CONSERVING AND CREATING COMMUNITY Paradise Ridge Winery is resuming their award-winning event series, Wine & Sunsets with Live Music on Wednesday evenings, starting June 2nd through October 27th. This is definitely something to celebrate. The event is tucked away in the Fountaingrove hills of Santa Rosa at EDITORIAL: ASKING FOR HELP IS HARD Local resources for mental health help. 24 HOUR LINES / CRISIS INTERVENTION. Suicidal Thoughts (800) 273-8255 www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Veteran’s Crisis Line (800) 273-8255, press 1 www.veteranscrisisline.net. Verity formerly known as United Against Sexual Assault (707) 545-7273 www.ourverity.org. COAST SAFETY: WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Pehrson was worried that weekend when she saw the parking lots overflow as cars continued to stream along Highway 1. “Looking for a parking spot,” she added. Pehrson has been a columnist for the Gazette for years and an advocate for coast safety even longer. “Our first responders are stretched thin,” she said. TO BE BLACK IN SONOMA COUNTY To be Black in Sonoma County. Sonoma County prides itself on being a bastion of liberal, free-thinking, empowering and open-minded people. But the last four years in this country—culminating with the insurrection at the Capitol—continue to expose the intense undercurrent of racism and white supremacy movements that are very

much alive.

KICKING OFF BEAR SEASON IN SONOMA VALLEY The black bears are here. Over the past five years, more and more black bears have shown up on wildlife cameras rambling throughout the back country of Sonoma County and the North Bay. Recently bears made the news when ambling into backyards and towns such as Cotati and Sebastopol in search of food SONOMA COUNTY PLANTING GUIDE It’s the age-old question: When can I plant ? Petaluma’s Wilco partnered with the Sonoma County Gazette to bring the ultimate gardener’s vegetable planting guide. LIVING WITH REDWOODS 3. Hire a competent climber to only remove deadwood from the crown if there are no obvious problems with the tree. 4. Have forked tops thinned to one sturdy top. If both forks are unstable, cut back to strong wood and budget to have the new sprouts thinned in a couple

years. 5.

TREE REMOVAL LAWS FOR YOUR PROPERTY A fire hazard exemption requires treating the surrounding vegetation to the county standard in order to qualify for that fire hazard exemption. You may not be able to merely harvest trees, and then consider the work finished. You are requires to address other fire hazards, such as bushes, branches, debris, etc. on the property near

structures.

STRONG SURVIVAL

The documentary “Strong Survival” was released in June 2017. This 30-minute film documents Maya’s experiences with trafficking from the ages of 12 to 18, exploring the psychological and physical harm human trafficking has on victims. Strong Survival also features interviews with law enforcement members of the Sonoma County Human

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NEWS AND STORIES FROM AROUND SONOMA COUNTY View All Current Stories

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Sonoma Beach openings June 4 Update from Regional Parks

*

Vacation Rentals - Compromise is Key

*

Mandatory City wide Curfew to Begin June 1 at 8:00 p.m. - June 8,

5:00 am

*

Shelter-in-Place Sonoma County Business Directory - Coronavirus-COVID-19 Mandate

*

Parks Access Expanded Coastal beaches to reopen - Please Follow Rules

So they Stay Open

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Sonoma County Restaurants who offer Take-Out Food during the Corona Virus Shelter-in-Place

*

Sonoma County Library Offers Virtual Story Times and Activities

*

Sebastappeal by Sarah Glade Gurney — June 2020

*

Roseland Land Development Meetings: June 4, and June 11,

*

OpEd: All-electric Mandate concerns Homeowners, Builders and

Developers

*

Garden for the Planet By Roger Raiche & David McCrory – May 2020

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For the Planet by Tish Levee — May 2020

*

Public Hearing on Sanitation Rates will Continue at June 9 Virtual

Board Meeting

*

Live Theater by Jeanie K. Smith - June 2020

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Enforcement of Sonoma County Public Health Order — Update

*

Introducing Sonoma County’s First Youth Poet Laureate

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Firefighter News — May 2020

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DVD Review by Diane McCurdy - June 2020

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NorCal - Public Media Receives Grant From California Humanities

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Immigrant Stories by Christopher Kerosky — June 2020

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Real Music by Robert Feuer - June 2020

*

Lynda Hopkins Supervisor 5th District - Daily Briefing 5-22-2020

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Book Review by Diane McCurdy – May 2020

*

Legislation to Protect Homeowners Rebuilding After Wildfires Passes Key Senate Committee

*

Update on June 2020 TSCA EPA Fluoridation Toxicity Trial: EXPERTS

CLEARED TO TESTIFY

*

Senior Momentum by Zoe Tummillo - June 2020

*

Roseland Review by Duane Dewitt - June 2020

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Our County by Lynda Hopkins - 5th District Supervisor - June 2020

*

Food for All - Comida Para Todos' partnership with North Bay

Organizing Project

*

Film and Theater by Don Gibble — June 2020

*

Bodega Bay Tidings by Patty Ginochio - June 2020

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Wheel of Light Astrology by Rio Olesky - June 2020

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The Graton Day Labor Center Providing Remote Job Dispatch

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Rohnert Park Ravings by Don Gibble — June 2020

*

Establishment of a Psychiatric Health Facility in Sonoma County is

Approved

*

Streamside Landowners: The Key To Salmon And Steelhead Recovery

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Barrister Bits by Debra A. Newby – June 2020

*

2020-2021 Cloverdale Sculpture Trail VIRTUAL Preview Tour

*

RRWA Environmental Column – June 2020

*

Penngrove Station By Lyndi Brown — June 2020

*

KBBF RadioLand By Serena Makofsky — May 2020

*

4Cs Expands Child Care Funding for Essential Workers

*

Sonoma County Updates 2020-21 Budget for Coronavirus Impacts

*

How Natural Solutions Can Help Protect The Nation’s Most Vulnerable

Populations

*

Safe Social Distancing Site Planned for Parking Lot Behind Finley

Community Center

*

County of Sonoma Launches Warm Line for Emotional and Mental Health

Support

*

Telemedicine Used to Fight Opioid Addiction

*

Nurseries & Plant Propagators in Sonoma County - UPDATE 2020 SONOMA BEACH OPENINGS JUNE 4 UPDATE FROM REGIONAL PARKS We need to follow the simple rules so we don't force the hand of the County to close the beaches once again.  Because this public health emergency is continuing into the future and the general shelter-in-place order is still in effect, we are asked to continue limiting our activities and our exposure to others. Read on for some specific guidelines for visiting Sonoma Coast beaches – and all of

our Regional Parks.

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VACATION RENTALS - COMPROMISE IS KEY There are two basic reasons for being totally opposed to homes being rented to out-of-area guests. One is the behavior of the guests. If there is only a distant property manager and no responsible person on the property, guests can have parties, invite too many people so septic systems get overloaded, parking too many cars is a nuisance, noise levels are hard to control, or impossible without law enforcement intervention, and weekends during vacation season become opportunities for higher levels of stress instead of relaxation on days off from work. The other is the impact of available housing and neighborhoods devoid of neighbors. On the other side, tourism accounts for  massive amounts of money pouring into Sonoma County paying for wages and tax-dependent services.

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MANDATORY CITY WIDE CURFEW TO BEGIN JUNE 1 AT 8:00 P.M. - JUNE 8, 5:00

AM

Due to the incidents of violence and vandalism that occurred over the weekend in Santa Rosa, to keep our community safe, City Manager Sean McGlynn, in consultation with Police Chief Rainer Navarro, has implemented a citywide curfew effective Monday, June 1, 2020, at 8 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. each evening until Thursday, June 4, 2020, at 5:00 a.m.See who is exempt and link the to full order and access the Traffic Closure Map / Mapa de cierre del tráfico .

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PARKS ACCESS EXPANDED COASTAL BEACHES TO REOPEN - PLEASE FOLLOW RULES

SO THEY STAY OPEN

Beaches reopen .New Health Order  Expands Parks Access Coastal Beaches, Parking Areas To Reopen. The order means residents can drive to Sonoma Coast parks and trails beginning Wednesday, June 3, between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please do all you can to follow the rules of social distancing , carrying a mask and being willing to got to another beach if social distancing is a challenge. We do not want the county to close the beaches once again because of the health risk of not being diligent about the advisories. read more and watch a video by dr Anthony Fauchi explain Social distancing and why we do it as well as a video by medical professionals on how to wear a mask correctly and how

it is protective.

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ROSELAND LAND DEVELOPMENT MEETINGS: JUNE 4, AND JUNE 11, Coming up! 2 IMPORTANT Roseland Land Development “virtual” public meetings: Santa Rosa Design Review Board on Thurs. June 4, 2020 at 4:30 pm. and Santa Rosa Planning Commission on Thurs. June 11, 2020 at 4 pm. Local residents in the Burbank Ave. area are concerned about another “Burbank Ave. Subdivision” at 1400 Burbank Ave. It is a very big proposal for four parcels totaling 14.2 acres, and has no parks slated for it. Local neighbors to the project have appealed the prior approvals of the proposal.

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OPED: ALL-ELECTRIC MANDATE CONCERNS HOMEOWNERS, BUILDERS AND

DEVELOPERS

Homeowner preference and higher initial costs for induction cookers appear to have been ignored in the subsequent reach codes outlined in the 2019 California building code, which went into effect January 1, 2020. Homeowner resistance to buying an all-electric residence and homeowner reluctance to giving up gas cooking is obliterated with the revised building code.

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PUBLIC HEARING ON SANITATION RATES WILL CONTINUE AT JUNE 9 VIRTUAL

BOARD MEETING

The Public Hearing to consider increasing the annual sewer service charge provided by and scheduled for the Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Sonoma County Water Agency on behalf of the Sanitation Zones of Airport-Larkfield-Wikiup, Geyserville, Penngrove, and Sea Ranch, and the Boards of the County Sanitation Districts of Occidental, Russian River, Sonoma Valley, and South Park that was previously scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 8:30AM has been continued until Tuesday, June 9, 2020 at 1:30 PM.

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ENFORCEMENT OF SONOMA COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH ORDER — UPDATE Because the Sheriff’s position is at odds with other law enforcement agencies and creates unnecessary inconsistent messages throughout the county, I feel compelled to remind the public that ultimately the decision to file criminal charges lies with the office of the District Attorney. I am trained in law not science, and will rely upon the experts to navigate a safe path forward for us through this time. Thus, I will work with other law enforcement and community leaders to educate, and where necessary, enforce the orders issued by our Public

Health Officer.

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INTRODUCING SONOMA COUNTY’S FIRST YOUTH POET LAUREATE California Poets in the Schools (CalPoets) announces the county’s first-ever Youth Poet Laureate. ZOYA AHMED, an incoming senior at Maria Carrillo High School, was selected from a qualified pool of applicants by a panel of judges on May 11th, 2020. The judging panel included distinguished poets and teachers from throughout the county including Maya Khosla, the outgoing Poet Laureate of Sonoma County. Ms. Ahmed will offer her first public appearance as  SONOMA COUNTY YOUTH POET LAUREATE AT THE CALIFORNIA POETS IN THE SCHOOLS VIRTUAL POETRY SYMPOSIUM HAPPENING JUNE 26TH, 27TH AND 28TH.

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FIREFIGHTER NEWS — MAY 2020 Exploring the idea of   increasing the level of service to our residents without the need of a significantly increased fire tax initially began as a contract for service with the Sonoma County Fire District (SCFD) for administrative services. The benefits of this partnership was quickly apparent and so began the collaborative process of annexation to fully integrate RRFPD into the SCFD. As a result, at its May 6th meeting, the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) approved the annexation of the Russian River Fire Protection District into the new Sonoma County Fire District. The “Go Live” date is targeted at July 1, 2020 when the Guerneville fire station will officially become Sonoma County Fire District Station 9.

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NORCAL - PUBLIC MEDIA RECEIVES GRANT FROM CALIFORNIA HUMANITIES Northern California Public Media Has Been Awarded 'The Humanities For All Quick Grant', a competitive grant program of California Humanities that supports locally-initiated public humanities projects that respond to the needs and interests of Californians, encourage greater public participation in humanities programming, particularly by new and/or underserved audiences, and promotes understanding and empathy among all our state’s peoples in order to cultivate a thriving democracy. Read more and link to the podcasts of the winning program THE WONDERLAND RADIO HOUR.

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IMMIGRANT STORIES BY CHRISTOPHER KEROSKY — JUNE 2020 We may think that a health care professional — possessing an education, skilled medical training and a job in a hospital or medical facility — would be given preference by our immigration system. Yet, under current law, that’s simply not the case.  The other major restriction in the law applies to those who are undocumented. Many of our elder care and private home health care is provided by immigrants here without status. Often they fill the lowest paid, most physically-demanding jobs in health care.  Yet, they have no path to a green card under current law.

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LYNDA HOPKINS SUPERVISOR 5TH DISTRICT - DAILY BRIEFING 5-22-2020 From Lynda Hopkins :  "Once again, we are proud to see the strength and resilience of our West County communities as there are so many acts of kindness and creative steps forward taking place. Yesterday, as I was in Guerneville, I saw the Russian River Alliance going to laid off worker homes to deliver food cards purchased from local donations as well as a grant from our TIF Funds. West County Community Services has housed more unsheltered community members at the alternative care site in SSU, we've heard from a nationally renowned artist looking at donating a piece of art to the town, and one of our local youths is working on organizing a drive-in movie night. I am so grateful for these and many other positive lights in our community that uplift us all". And as the Health Order is modified to its 3rd itiration, there is some good news for restaurant owners and us as well!  The County has met the State’s COVID-19 Resilience Roadmap criteria for accelerating the opening of lower-risk businesses and public space, but please read more to be aware of the rules and precautions allmust take for health safety.

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LEGISLATION TO PROTECT HOMEOWNERS REBUILDING AFTER WILDFIRES PASSES KEY SENATE COMMITTEE After the devastating wildfires of 2017 and 2018 some homeowners turned to contractors offering great deals, but they had no experience building homes. Homeowners would come to find out that their contractor didn’t have the experience needed to do the job right, or even finish their work. That’s why Senator McGuire introduced legislation   SB 1189 which addresses this issue by eliminating the one-size-fits-all contracting license. SB 1189 will also allow District Attorneys to prosecute unlicensed contracting companies who take advantage of wildfire survivors.

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FOOD FOR ALL - COMIDA PARA TODOS' PARTNERSHIP WITH NORTH BAY

ORGANIZING PROJECT

Food for All/Comida para Todos (FFA) is pleased to announce a partnership with North Bay Organizing Project (NBOP) as our fiscal sponsor. Food for All/Comida para Todos is non-profit and operated solely by volunteers. All donations are used to purchase products for families in Sonoma Valley. The partnership with NBOP allows for all donations made to FFA to be tax deductible. The items offered in this program are essential food and cleaning products for families. The program requires completion of an online survey. The survey helps to identify your family needs for delivery. Read more to see how you can help or refer someone you know in the Springs area who may need these

services.

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THE GRATON DAY LABOR CENTER PROVIDING REMOTE JOB DISPATCH Hiring workers for landscaping, gardening and outdoor construction are now allowed through the Graton Day Labor Center.With all the time on our hands we are getting a lot of work accomplished around the house and yard. For more labor intensive work and work needing skills there are workers for hire who need to earn an income urgently to support their family.  The Graton Day Labor Center is providing remote job dispatch for certain services listed, per the Order of the Health Officer of Sonoma County . Advance dispatch only! Read more, to see how you can request a worker and the revised wage scale.

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BARRISTER BITS BY DEBRA A. NEWBY – JUNE 2020 When chasing an unpaid debt,  one viable option that is often overlooked or misunderstood is Sonoma County Small Claims Court.  It is a very effective solution that is cheaper and quicker than hiring a private attorney.  We are lucky to have a Free Small Claims Clinic staffed by 3rd and 4th year law students at Empire College School of

Law.

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SONOMA COUNTY UPDATES 2020-21 BUDGET FOR CORONAVIRUS IMPACTS The County of Sonoma released its 2020-21 recommended budget totaling $1.9 billion, which represents as flat 0.1% change increase from the current FY 2019-20 revised budget.

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HOW NATURAL SOLUTIONS CAN HELP PROTECT THE NATION’S MOST VULNERABLE

POPULATIONS

Nature-based tools are proving to be increasingly vital for climate and health resilience. These natural solutions are especially important for disadvantaged communities, which disproportionately experience the impacts of environmental issues while having the least amount of resources to protect themselves.  State legislators across the country recognize these benefits and are introducing legislation to enable the use of natural infrastructure. For example,a California

bill

introduced

this year would provide grants to school districts or charter schools located in low-income or disadvantaged communities to convert existing pavement at a school to green space. AB 2031 also requires that these parks include a garden to be used as an educational tool for children, providing both health and educational

benefits.

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COUNTY OF SONOMA LAUNCHES WARM LINE FOR EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

SUPPORT

County of Sonoma Launches Warm Line for Emotional and Mental Health Support. Beginning on Thursday April 23, a local warm line will be available to support community experiencing emotional stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.The warm line is available to any County resident experiencing emotional side effects of the pandemic and/or the shelter in place order, or knows somebody who is. Service in Spanish is also available as well as telephone interpretation for

other languages.

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THE SONOMA COUNTY GAZETTE COLUMNS: * Agriculture - Food Farms to Vineyards * Artists & Galleries

* Astrology

* Barrister Bits - Legal Questions Answered - by Debra Newby * Benefits - Good Deeds - Causes * Business - News - Profiles

* Economics - Money

* Education: Schools - Seminars * Energy and Technology * Environment and Ecology * Family - Children to Seniors * Film Arts - Movies & Festivals - Reviews

* Finance and Law

* Firefighter News

* Garden - Landscape, Plants - Farms * Health and Well Being * Housing and Real Estate * Immigrant Stories - Christopher A. Kerosky * KBBF Radioland 89.1 FM * Literary Arts and Book Reviews * Music Concerts and Reviews * Our County - 5th District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins * Outdoors - Recreation - Parks * Pets and Animal Care * Politics and Social Issues * Real Music by Robert Feuer - Reviews and Concerts * Recipes for Seasonal Food * Restaurant Reviews - Food - Recipes * Senior Momentum by Zoë Tummillo * Sonoma County Parks and Recreation * Theater - Performing Arts * Tish Levee - For the Planet * Tourism - Day Trips - Travel * Transportation - Car - Train - Bike - Motorcycle * Water News and Issues * Wine Banter by John Haggard * Wine Country - Sonoma County Style SONOMA COUNTY COMMUNITIES: * Bodega Bay Beat by Joan Poulos - Bodega Bay

Beat by Joan Poulos

* Bodega Bay Tidings by Patty Ginocchio - Bodega Bay Tidings * Bodega Byways - Bodega Byways by Eva Granahan * Camp Meeker - Camp Meeker Beat by Tom Austin * Cazadero - Cazadero Communications by Natasha

Pehrson

* Cloverdale - Cloverdale Comments by Carol Russell & Reese Foxen * Cotati - Cotati Heart & Soul Deborah Taylor-French * Forestville - Forestville - The Good Life by

Lucy Hardcastle

* Geyserville - Geyserville Grapevine by

deTraci Regula

* Graton - Feeling Graton - Jennifer Butler * Guerneville - Guerneville Groove by Beth

Rudometkin

* Healdsburg - Healdsburg * Jenner and Sonoma Coast - Jenner

Jottings

* Monte Rio - Monte Rio Musings by Chuck Ramsey * North Sonoma County Coast - North Coast Winds by Robin Joy Wellman * Occidental - Occidental Oriented by Mackenzie

Nekton

* Penngrove - Penngrove Station by Lyndi Brown * Petaluma - Petaluma Perspective by Houston

Porter

* Rio Nido - Rio Nido Magic by Elena Chronis * River Community Advocates - Lower Russian River - River Community Advocates * Rohnert Park - Rohnert Park - the Friendly

City

* Roseland - Roseland Review by Duane Dewitt * Santa Rosa - Santa Rosa Snippets by Elaine B.

Holtz

* Sebastopol - Sebastappeal By Sarah Glade

Gurney

* Sonoma Valley City of Sonoma - Savory Sonoma by Stephanie Hiller * Sonoma Valley Springs Communities - Springs Splash - Tom

Martin

* Windsor - What's Up in Windsor by Lorene Romero

and Gayle Walz

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Sonoma County Restaurants who offer Take-Out Food during the Corona Virus Shelter-in-Place. _NOT on our LIST & MAP? Get LISTED:__ _https://www.sonomacountygazette.com/submit-business.html Shelter-in-Place Sonoma County Business Directory - Coronavirus-COVID-19 Mandate. This is a work-in-process. PLEASE HELP US by sending missing info to editor@sonomacountygazette.com. Visit FINE TREE CARE WEBSITE for a List of our SERVICES - Testimonials and to request a FREE

Estimate

Your 2020 GUIDE to support locally-owned garden businesses and natural landscaping practices. LOCAL GUIDE TO CANNABIS DISPENSARIES AND DELIVERY SERVICES, SONOMA COUNTY & BEYOND._All dispensaries have verified their information._ The Sonoma County Gazette is published Monthly by Sonoma Media

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