Columns

Now that it’s June and we’re past Memorial Day and local schools are closed for summer vacations, we can all break out our BBQ grills, outdoor RV equipment, camping gear and backyard mowing tools.

Those who have strolled past Downtown Bakery and then found themselves easing into Levin’s without a thought of buying a book because they were enigmatically drawn in, join a host of others. Walking the east side of Center Street on the Plaza, there is an allure to enter Levin’s. Warm and worn Persian carpets, well-curated tables of bestsellers and frequently changed display books are part of it.

One of the many cool benefits of living with teenagers is the opportunity to self reflect as a person. Meaning, when one of my teens is going through a bump I tend to try to put myself back in their shoes as my rebellious, crazy 16-year-old self. I figure if I can offer up advice that might seem relevant, I will try my hardest. If I can relate, I can lessen their pain and sadness. Always a Mama Bear’s job, I suppose, to bring in light when there is darkness.

Hopper services to continue Thursdays through Sundays

Mud

Talkin’ turkey here. Nope, not Thanksgiving turkey. Turkey tail mushrooms. It’s mushrooming season in Sonoma County. When the weather turns cold and damp, fog rolls in and rain falls, and mushrooms’ fruiting bodies pop up.

Sometimes ya just see sumthin.’  Driving down the road, the sun shone through a pink and red hollyhock, transforming its petals into a glowing orb. Arresting. Even driving 35 mph, not quite at a stoplight, something said, “Stop.” Take a beat, take a picture, take...

Rainstorms in Sonoma usually mean snowstorms in Tahoe. As of Jan. 10, snowpack in the Sierra is 214% of normal, according to the California Department of Water Resources. Ski resorts around Tahoe are heavenly this year—double pun intended.  Whiteout conditions. Avalanche control in passes and...