Did the pandemic create more income inequality in California?
Recessions in California tend to widen the gap between rich and poor. The sharp pandemic downturn of 2020 followed this pattern with low-income workers suffering the most. But unprecedented government relief kept millions from falling into poverty, and demand for labor boosted wages when businesses reopened.
No on Measure A
In Measure A, Sonoma County voters are being asked to approve yet another general purpose sales tax. Members of the County Board of Supervisors and others out on the stump are promoting Measure A as a “roads tax” that if approved would be spent 90 percent for road repairs and 10 percent for public transit items such as free bus passes for students, seniors and veterans. Unfortunately, the ballot language itself belies a different intent. The plain language of Measure A identifies a list of spending objectives starting with public safety and concluding with the troublesome catchall “other essential services.” Roads don’t even top the list.
Arts & Entertainment
Holiday Happenings, December 4-12
The City’s annual seasonal celebration, Merry Healdsburg, includes the Lighting of the Tree and a night market at the Plaza. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage, dance to live holiday music, cheer for Santa’s grand arrival...











