Kids’ Camps: Indoor, Outdoor and Next Door

Though most of us are still crawling out of our wintertime hibernation mindset, open enrollment for children’s summer camps is already well underway here in the North Bay. 

The sun is shining, flowers are blooming and seasonal allergies are in full swing, and so too is the rush to reserve spots for children’s summertime recreation.

To help y’all get the process started, here’s a handy dandy list of children’s summer camps in Napa and Sonoma. These places offer a wide range of activities that sound so fun, they make an adult wish they could attend too. So, one may live vicariously and send their kid out horseback riding, to a LEGO workshop, to star in a Peter Pan theatrical production, get hands-on archery experience, etc….and enjoy summer camp second-hand.

Charles M. Schulz Museum children’s camp offers so many options for kids’ enrichment, education and enjoyment that listing them all is nearly impossible. Some highlights include titles like Camp Woodstock, LEGO Animation, Fantasy Creatures and Worlds, Cartoon Safari, Manga and Pokémon, Camp Freeze and Game On! Those interested in getting their kids involved in hands-on workshops and entertaining educational experiences may consider enrolling while spots last. To learn more, visit schulzmuseum.org.

Cloverleaf Ranch summer camp can sweep kids away from their day-to-day reality and make them feel like they’re embarking on a real western adventure (horses included). The Sleep-Away summer camp at Cloverleaf Ranch offers children a chance to get that quintessential experience of sleeping in a cabin, riding horses, shooting a bow and arrow, swimming, learning, playing and essentially recreating to their heart’s content. To learn more, visit cloverleafranch.com.

Girls United Camp is a place where empowerment and enjoyment come together to make a stellar Petaluma-based children’s summer camp that’s all about girl power. This camp offers multiple options for summer camp attendees to spend their stay their way—one may either sign up for the overnight camp or the summer day camp (or possibly the sports camp). Whatever they choose, it’s sure to be jam packed with traditional camp games, creative outlets in spades and a sense of girlish community and blossoming friendships. To learn more, visit girlsunitedcamp.com.

Guild Napa has a lineup of kids’ summer camps that are designed to be truly fantastical. This summer, the North Bay’s kiddos can recreate in style with unique activities with specific themes that are intriguing, to say the least. Camp titles at Guild Napa include themes such as Pool Party, Magical Creatures, Candy Land, Pirates and Mermaids, Out Of This World, Thredz, Pet Palooza, Secret Agents and Superheros, Fairytales and Fables and Luau. Sadly, adults can’t apply for a kids’ camp, but would that one could…To learn more, visit guildnapa.com.

North Bay Theatrics has a summer camp for the North Bay’s more drama-minded children, a place where all those mini players and future superstars can take to the stage and live out their own midsummer night’s dream…well, the summertime production this year is actually Peter Pan, but the point stands. So, one may get thee to a company at North Bay Theatric’s children’s summer camp and let them play. To learn more, visit northbaytheatrics.com/sonoma-county.

Napa Parks and Recreation offers the North Bay’s children…well, exactly what one would expect—a summer full of parks, recreation and memories yet to be made. The list of camps available through Napa Parks and Recreation is extensive, though some examples include Camp Napa, Adventure Camp, Games and Sports Camp, Splashball and Incrediflix (an all-day LEGO camp, which is pretty incredible). 

For those who want to get their kids out of the house and involved in one or many activities of a wide range over the summer break, consider perusing through the Napa Parks and Recreation summer camps catalogue. There’s a great big world outside for children to see and be a part of, and these camps certainly celebrate that. To learn more, visit cityofnapa.org.

Sonoma County Regional Parks has some stellar children’s summer camps to choose from…so stellar, in fact, that many are already sold out. So, one may not want to miss out on a chance to snag a spot in one or a few of the remaining camps, which include the Discovery Camp: Spring Lake Water and Nature Adventures, Little Lifesavers Camp and the New Swimmer Junior Guard Camp. To learn more, visit parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov.

SpiritHorse offers a specialty summer camp for children that makes it a welcome addition to this list—specifically, the SpiritHorse Autism Camp, which gives local children a chance to recreate during the summer break in a safe and understanding space. SpiritHorse Autism Camp has a lineup of considerate, mindfully curated activities that are designed to suit those who may not always find the quintessential summer camp experience particularly palatable. 

Guests of the camp can expect to participate in hands-on equine activities that are adapted to each person’s individual comfort level. Skill building is another part of SpiritHorse, where children can gain confidence in communication, emotional regulation and social interactions. The entire camp is designed to be a sensory-friendly environment where children are made to feel comfortable enjoying themselves and exploring through interactions with not only horses but others, including peers and counselors as well. To learn more, visit spirithorsebayarea.org.

Steve & Kate’s Camp is all about getting out of the house and seeking out some summertime fun for children aged 4 through 12. Camps run June 16 through Aug. 15 and include snacks, activities and freedom for parents to drop their children off for long days. Steve & Kate’s Camp has two locations in Sonoma County and can be found in both Petaluma and Santa Rosa. To learn more, visit steveandkatescamp.com.

Wonder Camp is for the North Bay’s more curious children to explore, learn, ask questions and get answers that spark off even more questions (like a fun, friendly hydra of never-ending Q&A). In other words, Wonder Camp encourages children to learn through unique learning activities focusing on immersion and hands-on projects designed to make education an irresistibly exciting challenge children will love to be a part of. To learn more, visit cmosc.org.

Summer camp spots fill up faster than one can say, “But it’s only spring.” One may act fast or miss out on getting their whippersnappers signed up for some summertime recreation. After all, the memories they make during this summer break will stick with them for a lifetime. 

What’s All the Buzz? ‘Spelling Bee’ at SRJC

Playing in Santa Rosa Junior College’s Burbank Auditorium through March 9, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is an absolutely ridiculous musical in all the right ways.

Despite premiering on Broadway 20 years ago, it’s still fresh. The title explains the simple plot, and its naughty songs and musical numbers provide the opportunity for broad comedy. The songs are genuinely funny and present cleverly written scenes, with “I’m Not That Smart” and “Spelling Montage” the standouts. 

But while this Bee does try hard to give us a look at the unfortunate burdens adolescents face from their uncontrollable bodies (well-portrayed by Diego Rodriguez in “Chip’s Lament”) and families (overbearing parents are a theme, most poignantly reflected through Mariah Burgos’ character, Schwartzy), the results are uneven. 

Still, this is primarily a show for actors to create interesting characters. The most fully realized performance is Buffy Toledo as Rona Lisa Perreti, a past Bee champion and contest judge for whom “The Bee” lives rent free in her head. Toledo checks every box for the exceptional musical theater actor, and her voice is fantastic. She commits wholly to a character that in lesser hands would quickly become obnoxious.

More strong work comes from Olivia Manz as lonely Olive Ostrovsky, who has the body language of an adolescent wallflower down pat and imbues her character with true vulnerability. As Leaf Coneybear, Tyler Hurley is at once lovable, physically unpredictable and steals moments like candy from a baby.

Aidan Pryor, as the imperious William Barfeé (name pronunciation jokes abound), is channeling some deranged Albert Finney-Jack Black mashup that mainly succeeds, if only he would fully throw himself into the character. 

As a whole, the ensemble is a talented and dedicated group, definitely worth the price of admission. Nerves did seem apparent on opening night. But once these roles are more worn in, the full extent of this cast’s competence will be revealed in all its foul-mouthed glory.

When the future of the art form is precarious, it is crucial to support our young performers, and to give them room to grow into the craft. It’s safe to say the cast is doing work that not only enhances their own skill sets but also brings obvious delight to their audience. 

Though lightweight in character development, this is a rollicking, fun play. Patrons will surely leave the theater repeating their favorite lines and lyrics. 

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ runs Thur-Sun through March 9 in the Santa Rosa Junior College Burbank Auditorium, 1501 Mendocino Ave. Thur-Sat, 7:30pm; Sat-Sun, 2pm. $15–$25. 707.527.4307. theatrearts.santarosa.edu.

Where Ex-Drunks Go After Dark

For those who can have an alcoholic beverage without letting their life spiral into oblivion, the North Bay is a Shangri-La. 

Breweries, wineries, distilleries and other opportunities for revelries abound. When the sun goes down, there’s a place where everybody knows your name, even if you’ve had too many IPAs to remember it yourself. 

For those of us who don’t drink, nightlife options are limited to the family-friendly. And then it’s off to bed while the adults get to enjoy the moonlit merrymaking that we have either denied ourselves or have been denied by doctors, family members and law enforcement agencies. 

I’ve been a member of the non-drinking crowd for years. And while I certainly don’t mind being in bed by 8 o’clock, I also knew there had to be something out there for us. Places to sit and lose ourselves in the darkness without the constant reminder of what we can’t have. 

So, for three nights, I delayed my early bedtime and became a creature of the evening, seeking out a few of the booze-free late-night activities Sonoma and Napa counties have to offer. While the options are somewhat limited, there’s plenty to see and do as long as one doesn’t mind rubbing elbows with all the other sober weirdos who can’t sleep. 

Napa Bingo Emporium

601 Silverado Trail, Napa

Open until 10:30pm

I didn’t expect the Napa Bingo Emporium to be an actual emporium. But it is. On a Friday night, I found myself at the Napa Valley Expo grounds in a massive hall lined with tables. I paid my $40 and sat with many paper bingo cards, a computer tablet that held an additional 72 electronic cards and a marker that I had to ask to borrow and was firmly told was called a “dauber.” These people are serious. 

For four hours, we sat in reverent silence while numbers and letters were called from a stage flanked by not one but two American flags. People walked around selling pull tabs and flash games while I sucked down free coffee and tried to keep my eyes from crossing. The crowd, mostly senior citizens, had no problem keeping track of the multiple games. Many had special bags emblazoned with bingo balls that held their favorite daubers and custom card stands. It is a truly impressive thing to witness, and it happens three times a week. Every. Single. Week. 

Cal Skate

6100 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park

Open until 1:30am on select days

There are things that were once ubiquitous but are now gone forever. Payphones, video stores and the middle-class spring to mind immediately. But a night at the roller rink can and should still be enjoyed. So I went to Cal Skate in Rohnert Park by myself on a Saturday night and rented a pair of rollerblades. 

It turned out that my once-competent inline shredding ability was just one more thing that had disappeared. But my faith in the human spirit was restored as I held onto the wall and watched the rink. Adults with their own custom skates danced confidently in the center, teenagers held hands and fell in love, and every single person had a smile on their face. 

The DJ, a 17-year-old kid who was having a blast, announced an 18-and-over race, and everyone cleared out to watch as three men lined up. As soon as the whistle blew, a surprise last-minute contestant blasted out onto the floor, far behind the pack, and quickly took the lead. The place erupted, and I clapped along, caught up in the joy and desperately trying to keep my balance. 

Denny’s

1000 W. Steele Ln., Santa Rosa

Open 24 hours

I’ll admit that this Denny’s has always terrified me. I can only take so much grease on my greasy spoon. It’s one of the only 24-hour spots left in the area, though, so I swallowed my snobbery and prepared for the worst. 

The newfound friendliness and cleanliness that greeted me at the door was a shock. After ordering coffee and a chocolate milkshake from the jovial server/night manager, I looked around, trying to nail down why it felt so inviting. The photos hanging on the wall—Louis Armstrong smiling, Jackie Robinson sliding into home, waitresses from the ’60s laughing—all seemed there to point out the things that have always been good and true about America and the all-night diner. 

A cop sat at the counter, and the cook came out and talked with him about his troubles and triumphs. I wanted to scream, “What year is this?” as the Rockwellian scene played out. When I told the manager how good the place looked now and how lovely it felt, he beamed. “We dust our cobwebs here,” he said. 

Wash World

1418 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa 

Open until 11pm

When there’s nothing left to do, there’s always laundry, and there’s always Wash World. 

Located right on the corner of Mendocino and Pacific, it’s probably better for people-watching than clothes-washing. A set of comfortable lawn chairs sits right by the large picture windows, chained together to keep someone from stealing just one instead of the set. While there are several signs begging one not to let children play on the laundry carts, it doesn’t say anything about adults. So one could probably have a pretty good time with that until someone gets hurt or needs to move their clothes to the folding table. 

Walmart

6650 Hembree Ln., Windsor

Open until 11pm

I would never suggest that one spend money at Walmart. But one should absolutely pace the aisles aimlessly without buying anything.

Like a casino but sadder, Walmart is so brightly lit and windowless that it could be 10 at night or 10 in the morning. And does it even matter once one gets to that point? The Dunkin’ Donuts inside the store closes early, but there’s usually a guy selling hot dogs out front. And we all know the Walmart parking lot is where most of the late-night action takes place. 

Sobriety can be tough when one lives in an area with an economy based on alcohol. But just because one doesn’t partake, that doesn’t mean they can’t find adventure. Whether it’s gambling with grandmas or stumbling around in the fluorescent light of a big box store for no particular reason, one can still find a little teetotal thrill after dark if they know where to look for it.

Capt. America v. Trump, Marvel’s ‘Brave New World’

I have something to say, so let’s get the review out of the way—Captain America: Brave New World is a messy stink pile. There, that much was expected. What is unexpected is that we must see it—many times.

Pointedly, I saw the Marvel movie for the second time on Feb. 28—the date of the Rev. Al Sharpton’s one-day boycott of corporations that have trashed their Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Those blows follow President Donald Trump’s day-one executive order barring organizations with DEI policies from federal contracts. A Biden-appointed judge is currently blocking that order, pending a lawsuit brought by colleges.

My ticket purchase was not against the protest boycott but for it. Follow the plot:

For the first time, a Black actor, Anthony Mackie, is Captain America—in a paranoid thriller focused on White House conspiracies. Sound familiar? Harrison Ford co-stars as a war-mongering boomer president with a diseased heart that transforms into a red (read: orange) rage monster.

Unable to defeat the monster with violence, Black Captain America (aided by the power of nature’s beauty and calm) addresses the monster’s core emotional wounding, turning the orange monster back into a human. 

Nailing this eye-popping parallel is a second villain based on a tech bro archetype pulling the strings, a driving subplot about the exoneration of a wrongly incarcerated Black man and a final speech that Black Captain America delivers to his wounded Latino sidekick about the terrible weight of representing all those “that want a seat at the table.” 

This film is DEI versus Trump. And DEI America wins. What a message for this moment.

The timing is unintended … and it’s perfect. Disney (Marvel’s owner) is chagrined and backpedaling hard. The week before the movie’s Valentine’s Day release, Disney struck down the last of its Black Lives Matter era DEI programs in an HR memo, disappearing DEI hiring and reaffirming the bottom line. It’s terrible, but that’s where we get ’em. Disney follows the money.

And we need to get Disney-Marvel—they are the world’s biggest image-makers and cultural messengers—to think of how much Black Panther meant to Blacks and Africans the world over. Half a billion in tickets and rentals buys us a direct sequel. Less, and DEI Captain America loses to Trump. 

Congressional midterm elections are two very long years away. But every day until then, we will be voting with our dollars. And in a capitalist-captured state, that’s the real vote. Hold that nose and vote for The Dream. 50 stars.

In theaters throughout Marin.

Capt. America v. Trump, Marvel’s ‘Brave New World’

I have something to say, so let’s get the review out of the way—Captain America: Brave New World is a messy stink pile. There, that much was expected. What is unexpected is that we must see it—many times.

Pointedly, I saw the Marvel movie for the second time on Feb. 28—the date of the Rev. Al Sharpton’s one-day boycott of corporations that have trashed their Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Those blows follow President Donald Trump’s day-one executive order barring organizations with DEI policies from federal contracts. A Biden-appointed judge is currently blocking that order, pending a lawsuit brought by colleges.

My ticket purchase was not against the protest boycott but for it. Follow the plot:

For the first time, a Black actor, Anthony Mackie, is Captain America—in a paranoid thriller focused on White House conspiracies. Sound familiar? Harrison Ford co-stars as a war-mongering boomer president with a diseased heart that transforms into a red (read: orange) rage monster.

Unable to defeat the monster with violence, Black Captain America (aided by the power of nature’s beauty and calm) addresses the monster’s core emotional wounding, turning the orange monster back into a human. 

Nailing this eye-popping parallel is a second villain based on a tech bro archetype pulling the strings, a driving subplot about the exoneration of a wrongly incarcerated Black man and a final speech that Black Captain America delivers to his wounded Latino sidekick about the terrible weight of representing all those “that want a seat at the table.” 

This film is DEI versus Trump. And DEI America wins. What a message for this moment.

The timing is unintended … and it’s perfect. Disney (Marvel’s owner) is chagrined and backpedaling hard. The week before the movie’s Valentine’s Day release, Disney struck down the last of its Black Lives Matter era DEI programs in an HR memo, disappearing DEI hiring and reaffirming the bottom line. It’s terrible, but that’s where we get ’em. Disney follows the money.

And we need to get Disney-Marvel—they are the world’s biggest image-makers and cultural messengers—to think of how much Black Panther meant to Blacks and Africans the world over. Half a billion in tickets and rentals buys us a direct sequel. Less, and DEI Captain America loses to Trump. 

Congressional midterm elections are two very long years away. But every day until then, we will be voting with our dollars. And in a capitalist-captured state, that’s the real vote. Hold that nose and vote for The Dream. 50 stars.

In theaters throughout Marin.

Your Letters, March 5

Sanctuary Rescinded

In one of Donald Trump’s first acts in office, he stripped away protections for schools, hospitals and places of worship from immigration enforcement. These were once safe spaces where people could learn, receive health care and pray without fear. Now, they have been turned into targets for ICE raids.

This is unconscionable. As the world’s most significant historical climate polluter, the United States has a responsibility to immigrants. Our pollution is causing climate chaos—droughts, floods, hurricanes, rising waters—that is forcing people in Latin America, Asia, Africa and elsewhere to leave their homes. Others are fleeing violence, poverty and hunger, all of which are caused by or made worse by the climate crisis.

Immigrant families are facing the unimaginable: the fear that seeking education or health care could mean deportation or that a peaceful moment of prayer might be shattered by ICE agents barging in.

The future of so many families in our communities is on the line. We must call on local leaders to do the right thing, even as the federal government does not. I’m writing to urge mayors to hear this call and take action to protect immigrants.

Patrick Costello
San Anselmo

Psybastopol 

The article “Higher Office” (Bohemian, Feb. 26) was very interesting to read. Legalization of Schedule 1 drugs, the most addictive of all five Scheduled drugs, is a novel idea. Conducting the treatment under the supervision of shamans could also be helpful. 

I know folks who are stoned all the time, and they are always interesting. I don’t live in Sebastopol, but Jonathan Pinkston’s philosophies seem right in line with Peacetown.

Leslie Mikulich, DVM
Sonoma County

Wake Up, There’s No “Magical Trump Repellent”

Marian Turski, a Holocaust survivor, said, “Auschwitz did not fall from the sky. It began with small forms of persecution of Jews. It happened; it means it can happen anywhere. That is why human rights and democratic constitutions must be defended.” 

Donald Trump’s appeasement of Russia and Vladimir Putin is horrific. What is even more horrific is the fact that Americans willingly voted for Trump’s second term, knowing what was in store. 

When the majority of a population willingly votes their rights away, it’s the beginning of the end. 

Women for Trump: Oh, please take away my reproductive rights and then body shame me. African Americans for Trump: Oh, please normalize discrimination, make me invisible and wipe out any mention of slavery from our history. Working people for Trump: Oh, please tariff me to death and then tell me what a loser I am for not being able to take care of my family. Latinos for Trump; beyond my comprehension: Oh, please steal away my children, lock us up and demean us. 

We in the North Bay think we have some magical Trump repellent, that nothing can upend our idyllic existence. Whether one realizes it or not, it’s already happening incrementally. 

When I look around, I see a population sleepwalking through life. Wake up before it’s too late. Does anyone think it’s a joke when I say that, before too long, citizens will be forced to take a loyalty oath? 

Haha. 

The joke may well be on all of us.

David Reitman lives in Santa Rosa.

Connoisseur Uncorked, the Multi-Talented Dustin Valette

Dustin Valette is a true wine country chef. His roots are deep in Sonoma County, and growing up here imparted a genuine appreciation for great food and wine upon him. He took time to explore the globe but then returned to where it all began and where his family ties were tethered. 

In 2021, he opened the much anticipated The Matheson after restoring a 110-year-old building that was once his great-grandfather’s bakery in downtown Healdsburg. And this March marks the 10-year anniversary of Valette, his namesake eatery. To celebrate, they’re offering a special menu featuring “best of” dishes paired with exceptional Sonoma County wines, from March 10 to 16.

Amber Turpin: What’s your job? 

Dustin Valette: I am the chef-owner of Valette and The Matheson restaurants in Healdsburg and the owner of Valette Wines. My job is everything from potato peeler, fish butcher, line cook, chef, glass polisher and host—essentially really everything. My favorite role, though, is to make people happy.

AT: How did you get into that work?

DV: I started as a 13-year-old dishwasher at a local restaurant, Catelli’s, and then worked my way up. My travels took me from Healdsburg to New York City at age 17, to Napa Valley, where I worked with Thomas Keller—then Hawaii, Los Angeles, Vegas, Italy, France, and then I came back home to Healdsburg where it all began—16 years ago. Ten years ago, my brother and I started our first restaurant, Valette, and we have fulfilled our dream of showcasing why Healdsburg is such an amazing culinary and vinicultural destination. 

AT: Did you ever have an “aha” moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it. 

DV: Yes. It was the first time I had disappointing wine in New York. Since I grew up here in Healdsburg, I was very fortunate to be drinking Silver Oak, Williams Selyem and such iconic wines at a young age. My family always believed in a bit of wine with dinner. Man, was I shocked as a 17 year old sipping my first Boone’s wine at some house party.

AT: What is your favorite thing to drink at home? 

DV: Wine. I love the flavor, the enhancement it gives food and just the instantaneous mood change of popping the cork on a great pinot noir after a long day at the restaurants.

AT: Where do you like to go out for a drink?

DV: I love to go to Roof 106, at The Matheson, for a margarita or our local “watering hole,” Lo and Behold, in Healdsburg.

AT: If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides freshwater)? 

DV: Champagne. You can never have enough bubbles.

Culture Crush, 3/5

Petaluma

Ready, Set, Write

Petaluma Arts Center hosts Ready, Set, Write!, a women’s writing workshop led by instructor (and Weeklys contributor) Kary Hess. Designed to help participants overcome writer’s block and ignite creativity, the workshop offers seven techniques to start writing immediately, hands-on exercises to inspire ideas and a supportive environment for sharing work. By the end of the session, attendees will have a solid beginning, clear direction and motivation to continue their writing journey. One participant noted that it provides “a very gentle introduction back into creative writing.” 1:30-3:30pm, Saturday, March 8, at Petaluma Arts Center, 230 Lakeville St. The workshop fee is $85. For more information and to register, visit petalumaartscenter.org/events.

Occidental

Winging It

Heist films are known for their meticulous plotting and down-to-the-wire (sometimes literally) momentous decisions. Audiences can expect the same—albeit more off the cuff—with ZipLine Improv’s Heist!—a fully improvised high-stakes crime “film” that delves into the plans, crews and risks of grand theft. 7pm, Saturday, March 8, at the Occidental Center for the Arts, 3850 Doris Murphy Ct. Tickets are $25 in advance, $15 for OCA members, with an additional $5 at the door; children 12 and under attend free. Doors open at 6:30pm. Refreshments will be available for sale, and the art gallery will be open during intermission. Tickets and details at occidentalcenterforthearts.org.

San Rafael

Jazzing Up Marin

Marin Jazz presents a lineup of performances at the Marin Center Showcase Theater this spring, featuring talent in blues, jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. The season opens with the Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra on Sunday, March 16, at 3pm. Led by guitarist and bandleader Paule, the 11-piece orchestra will deliver an afternoon of soulful blues and jazz, joined by guest vocalist Willy Jordan. With high-energy arrangements and a powerful stage presence, the performance can be witnessed in the intimate Showcase Theater setting. Future concerts will continue to bring world-class artists to the heart of Marin County, offering music lovers a rich and diverse season of live jazz. 3pm, Sunday, March 16, at Marin Center Showcase Theater, located at 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. Tickets and details at marinjazz.com.

Novato

Wine & Laughs

Live comedy returns to Trek Wine with a night of high-energy standup featuring Chicago Steve Barkley. A 40-year comedy veteran, Barkley has been seen on HBO, Showtime and America’s Funniest People, where he won the $10,000 grand prize. Known for his animated delivery and live sound effects, he has entertained audiences everywhere, from comedy clubs to corporate events. The Guam Pacific Daily News says he’s “a cure for the island blues.” Special guest Jeff Applebaum, seen on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, joins the lineup for an evening of comedy in an intimate, wine-friendly setting. 7:30pm, Saturday, March 15, at Trek Wine, 1026 Machin Ave., Novato. Tickets $20-$30. More details at marincomedyshow.com.

Free Will Astrology, March 5-11

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ARIES (March 21-April 19): The world’s darkest material is Vantablack. This super-black coating absorbs 99.96% of visible light, creating a visual void. It has many practical applications, like improving the operation of telescopes, infrared cameras and solar panels. I propose we make Vantablack your symbol of power in the coming weeks. It will signify that an apparent void or absence in your life might actually be a fertile opportunity. An ostensible emptiness may be full of potential.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Among their many sensational qualities, rivers have the power to create through demolition and revision. Over the centuries, they erode rock and earth, making canyons and valleys. Their slow and steady transformative energy can be an inspiration to you in the coming months, Taurus. You, too, will be able to accomplish wonders through the strength of your relentless persistence—and through your resolute insistence that some old approaches will need to be eliminated to make way for new dispensations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Centuries before European sailors ventured across the seas, Polynesians were making wide-ranging voyages around the South Pacific. Their navigations didn’t use compasses or sextants, but relied on analyzing ocean swells, star configurations, cloud formations, bird movements and wind patterns. I bring their genius to your attention, Gemini, because I believe you are gaining access to new ways to read and understand your environment. Subtleties that weren’t previously clear to you are becoming so. Your perceptual powers seem to be growing, and so is your sensitivity to clues from below the visible surface of things. Your intuition is synergizing with your logical mind.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The Maeslant Barrier is a gigantic, movable barricade designed to prevent the flooding of the Dutch port of Rotterdam. It’s deployed when storms generate surges that need to be repelled. I think we all need metaphorical versions of this protective fortification, with its balance of unstinting vigilance and timely flexibility. Do you have such psychic structures in place, Cancerian? Now would be a good time to ensure that you have them and they’re working properly. A key factor, as you mull over the prospect I’m suggesting, is knowing that you don’t need to keep all your defenses raised to the max at all times. Rather, you need to sense when it’s crucial to assert limits and boundaries—and when it’s safe and right to allow the flow of connection and opportunity.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The authentic alchemists of medieval times were not foolishly hoping to transmute literal lead and other cheap metals into literal gold. In fact, their goal was to change the wounded, ignorant, unripe qualities of their psyches into beautiful, radiant aspects. The coming weeks will be an excellent time for you to do such magic. Life will provide you with help and inspiration as you try to brighten your shadows. We all need to do this challenging work, Leo. Now is one of your periodic chances to do it really well.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Cosmic rhythms are authorizing you to be extra demanding in the coming days—as long as you are not frivolous, rude or unreasonable. You have permission to ask for bigger and better privileges that you have previously felt were beyond your grasp. You should assume you have finally earned rights you had not fully earned before now. My advice is to be discerning about how you wield this extra power. Don’t waste it on trivial or petty matters. Use it to generate significant adjustments that will change your life for the better.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In North America, starlings are an invasive species introduced from Europe in the 19th century. They are problematic, competing with native species for resources. They can damage crops and spread diseases that affect livestock. Yet starlings also create the breathtakingly beautiful marvel known as a murmuration. They make mesmerizing, ever-shifting patterns in the sky while moving as one cohesive unit. We all have starling-like phenomena in our lives—people, situations and experiences that arouse deeply paradoxical responses, that we both enjoy and disapprove of. According to my analysis, the coming weeks will be prime time to transform and evolve your relationships with these things. It’s unwise to sustain the status quo. I’m not necessarily advising you to banish them—simply to change your connection.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Buildings and walls in the old Incan city of Machu Picchu feature monumental stone blocks that fit together precisely. You can’t slip a piece of paper between them. Most are irregularly shaped and weigh many tons. Whoever constructed these prodigious structures benefited from massive amounts of ingenuity and patience. I invite you to summon some of the same blend of diligence and brilliance as you work on your growing masterpiece in the coming weeks and months. My prediction: What you create in 2025 will last a very long time.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Bioluminescence is light emitted from living creatures. They don’t reflect the light of the sun or moon, but produce it themselves. Fireflies do it, and so do glow-worms and certain fungi. If you go to Puerto Rico’s Mosquito Bay, you may also spy the glimmer of marine plankton known as dinoflagellates. The best time to see them show what they can do is on a cloudy night during a new moon, when the deep murk reveals their full power. I believe their glory is a good metaphor for you in the coming days. Your beauty will be most visible and your illumination most valuable when the darkness is at a peak.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn-born Shah Jahan I was the emperor of Hindustan from 1628 to 1658. During his reign, he commissioned the Taj Mahal, a magnificent garden and building complex to honor his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This spectacular “jewel of Islamic art” is still a major tourist attraction. In the spirit of Shah Jahan’s adoration, I invite you to dream and scheme about expressing your devotion to what you love. What stirs your heart and nourishes your soul? Find tangible ways to celebrate and fortify your deepest passions.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Over 2,100 years ago, Greek scientists created an analog computer that could track astronomical movements and events decades in advance. Referred to now as the Antikythera mechanism, it was a unique, groundbreaking invention. Similar machines didn’t appear again until Europe in the 14th century. If it’s OK with you, I will compare you with the Antikythera mechanism. Why? You are often ahead of your time with your innovative approaches. People may regard you as complex, inscrutable or unusual, when in fact you are simply alert for and homing in on future developments. These qualities of yours will be especially needed in the coming weeks and months.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): No cars drove through London’s streets in 1868. That invention was still years away. But the roads were crammed with pedestrians and horses. To improve safety amidst the heavy traffic, a mechanical traffic light was installed—the first in the world. But it had a breakdown a month later, injured a police officer and was discontinued. Traffic lights didn’t become common for 50 years after that. I believe your imminent innovations will have better luck and good timing, Pisces. Unlike the premature traffic signal, your creations and improvements will have the right context to succeed. Don’t be shy about pushing your good ideas. They could revamp the daily routine. 

Kids’ Camps: Indoor, Outdoor and Next Door

Though most of us are still crawling out of our wintertime hibernation mindset, open enrollment for children’s summer camps is already well underway here in the North Bay.  The sun is shining, flowers are blooming and seasonal allergies are in full swing, and so too is the rush to reserve spots for children’s summertime recreation. To help y’all get the process...

What’s All the Buzz? ‘Spelling Bee’ at SRJC

Playing in Santa Rosa Junior College’s Burbank Auditorium through March 9, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is an absolutely ridiculous musical in all the right ways. Despite premiering on Broadway 20 years ago, it’s still fresh. The title explains the simple plot, and its naughty songs and musical numbers provide the opportunity for broad comedy. The songs are...

Where Ex-Drunks Go After Dark

For those who can have an alcoholic beverage without letting their life spiral into oblivion, the North Bay is a Shangri-La.  Breweries, wineries, distilleries and other opportunities for revelries abound. When the sun goes down, there’s a place where everybody knows your name, even if you’ve had too many IPAs to remember it yourself.  For those of us who don’t drink,...

Capt. America v. Trump, Marvel’s ‘Brave New World’

I have something to say, so let’s get the review out of the way—Captain America: Brave New World is a messy stink pile. There, that much was expected. What is unexpected is that we must see it—many times. Pointedly, I saw the Marvel movie for the second time on Feb. 28—the date of the Rev. Al Sharpton’s one-day boycott of...

Capt. America v. Trump, Marvel’s ‘Brave New World’

I have something to say, so let’s get the review out of the way—Captain America: Brave New World is a messy stink pile. There, that much was expected. What is unexpected is that we must see it—many times. Pointedly, I saw the Marvel movie for the second time on Feb. 28—the date of the Rev. Al Sharpton’s one-day boycott of...

Your Letters, March 5

Sanctuary Rescinded In one of Donald Trump’s first acts in office, he stripped away protections for schools, hospitals and places of worship from immigration enforcement. These were once safe spaces where people could learn, receive health care and pray without fear. Now, they have been turned into targets for ICE raids. This is unconscionable. As the world’s most significant historical climate...

Wake Up, There’s No “Magical Trump Repellent”

Marian Turski, a Holocaust survivor, said, “Auschwitz did not fall from the sky. It began with small forms of persecution of Jews. It happened; it means it can happen anywhere. That is why human rights and democratic constitutions must be defended.”  Donald Trump’s appeasement of Russia and Vladimir Putin is horrific. What is even more horrific is the fact that...

Connoisseur Uncorked, the Multi-Talented Dustin Valette

Dustin Valette is a true wine country chef. His roots are deep in Sonoma County, and growing up here imparted a genuine appreciation for great food and wine upon him. He took time to explore the globe but then returned to where it all began and where his family ties were tethered.  In 2021, he opened the much anticipated The...

Culture Crush, 3/5

Petaluma Ready, Set, Write Petaluma Arts Center hosts Ready, Set, Write!, a women’s writing workshop led by instructor (and Weeklys contributor) Kary Hess. Designed to help participants overcome writer’s block and ignite creativity, the workshop offers seven techniques to start writing immediately, hands-on exercises to inspire ideas and a supportive environment for sharing work. By the end of the session, attendees...

Free Will Astrology, March 5-11

ARIES (March 21-April 19): The world’s darkest material is Vantablack. This super-black coating absorbs 99.96% of visible light, creating a visual void. It has many practical applications, like improving the operation of telescopes, infrared cameras and solar panels. I propose we make Vantablack your symbol of power in the coming weeks. It will signify that an apparent void or...
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