Your Letters, 11/26

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Root of All Imbeciles

Lots of post-mortem essays appear in various “news” sources these days. I’m going to go ahead and blame global capital for the mess that has driven Americans to unprecedented levels of national stupidity. 

Global capital is rootless. Rootless capital uproots people and communities, particularly in single-industry communities in red states.

Uprooted people do stupid things, like turn over the car keys to degenerate imbeciles, crackpots and oligarchs. 

So, there it is. Fix that one, Chuck Norris.

Craig J. Corsini

San Rafael

Shakespearean Tragedy

Before the inevitable palace intrigues commence and the media begins comparing the soon-to-be backstabbing Trump administration to Shakespearean tragedy, please realize that Trump’s cruel and dangerous outrageousness could not, even by Shakespeare (who is deft at turning swine into pearls), be fashioned into anything noble, wise, eloquent or courageous.

Please just call Trump what he is: a greedy, white-collar hooligan who has initiated, for his own profit, the tragedy of democracy’s demise.

Rob Loughran

Windsor

Wildfire Roulette: Casino is risky business

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Sonoma County residents are accustomed to the risks that wildfires pose. Earlier this year, we experienced a wildfire that prompted emergency responders to contain it swiftly. That forced residents into the all-too-familiar position of standing by for a potential evacuation order.

This recent example underscores why it is so imperative that proposed development projects anticipate strained evacuation routes before bringing more congestion to our roads. The Koi Nation’s proposal to construct the Shiloh Resort and Casino ignores this responsibility.

The casino would sit on a major evacuation route outside the town of Windsor, which is susceptible to fast-moving wildfires. When a wildfire occurs, an evacuation warning could quickly turn into a mandatory evacuation order if the winds shift. Downplaying these risks without thorough analysis jeopardizes emergency response efforts and endangers 26,000 Windsor residents.

Supporters of the Koi Nation’s project say the casino will bring economic benefits to the community. However, this project should not come at the expense of the people who call Sonoma County home. 

Our elected leaders agree. Windsor officials oppose the casino, telling the Bureau of Indian Affairs that it may take longer for residents to evacuate the area if the casino is developed and a wildfire occurs. Wildfires move at an unpredictable pace, and the additional time it takes for residents to evacuate is a matter of life and death.

However, supporters of the Koi Nation’s casino have failed to acknowledge those concerns and more. Construction of the casino will imperil wildlife habitats. Also, the increased traffic around the casino will increase emissions, deteriorating our air quality. 

An inadequate analysis of these concerns and our community’s strong opposition to the casino should give the federal government pause. Yet, it appears that the Bureau of Indian Affairs is advancing the review process without meaningfully addressing community concerns.

We are encouraged that our elected representatives stand with our community and oppose this dangerous proposal. We urge Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to listen to our concerns and oppose the Koi Nation’s proposed casino project. 

Nina Cote is an advocate for Our Community Matters and a resident of the town of Windsor. 

Free Will Astrology: Week of Nov. 27

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Free Will Astrology: Week of Nov. 27

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Renowned composer Mozart had a sister nicknamed Nannerl. During their childhoods, she was as much a musical prodigy as he. They toured Europe doing performances together, playing harpsichord and piano. Some critics regarded her as the superior talent. But her parents ultimately decided it was unseemly for her, as a female, to continue her development as a genius. She was forcibly retired so she could learn housekeeping and prepare for marriage. Is there a part of your destiny, Aries, that resembles Nannerl’s? Has some of your brilliance been suppressed or denied? The coming months will be an excellent time to recover and revive it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Do you know if you have any doppelgangers, Taurus? I bet you will meet one in the coming weeks. How about soul friends, alter egos or evil twins? If there’s no one like that in your life right now, they may arrive soon. And if you already know such people, I suspect your relationships will grow richer. Mirror magic and shadow vision are in the works! I’m guessing you will experience the best, most healing kind of double trouble. Substitutes and stand-ins will have useful offers and tempting alternatives. Parallel realities may come leaking through into your reality. Opportunities for symbiosis and synergy will be at an all-time high. Sounds like wild fun!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Humans have been eating a wide range of oranges since ancient times. Among the most popular type in modern times is the navel orange. It’s large, seedless, sweet, juicy and easy to peel. But it didn’t exist until the 1820s, when a genetic mutation on a single tree in Brazil spawned this new variety. Eventually, the navel became a revolutionary addition to the orange family. I foresee a metaphorically comparable development in your life during the coming months, Gemini. An odd tweak or interesting glitch could lead to a highly favorable expansion of possibilities. Be alert for it.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian, you are a finalist for our “Most Resourceful and Successful Survivor of the Year” trophy. And if you take a brief trip to hell in the next two weeks, you could assure your victory. But wait! Let me be more exact: “Hell” is an incorrect terminology; I just used it for shock effect. The fact is that “hell” is a religious invention that mischaracterizes the true nature of the realm of mystery, shadows and fertile darkness. In reality, the nether regions can be quite entertaining and enriching if you cultivate righteous attitudes. And what are those attitudes? A frisky curiosity to learn truths you have been ignorant about, a brave resolve to unearth repressed feelings and hidden yearnings and a drive to rouse spiritual epiphanies that aren’t available when you’re in the trance of everyday consciousness.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In my astrological opinion, you need and deserve big doses of fun, play, pleasure and love. Amusement and enchantment, too. As well as excitement, hilarity and delight. I trust you will schedule a series of encounters and adventures that provide you with a surplus of these necessary resources. Can you afford a new toy or two? Or a romantic getaway to a sanctuary of adoration? Or a smart gamble that will attract into your vicinity a stream of rosy luck? I suggest that you be audacious in seeking the sweet, rich feelings you require.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): December will be Home Enhancement Month for you Virgos. Get started immediately! I’ll offer tips for how to proceed and ask you to dream up your own ideas. 1. Phase out décor or accessories that no longer embody the style of who you have become. 2. Add new décor and accessories that will inspire outbreaks of domestic bliss. 3. Encourage everyone in your household to contribute creative ideas to generate mutual enhancement. 4. Do a blessing ritual that will raise the spiritual vibes. 5. Invite your favorite people over and ask them to shower your abode with blessings.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libran songwriter and producer Kevin MacLeod has composed over 2,000 pieces of music—and given all of them away for free. That’s why his work is so widespread. It has been featured in thousands of films and millions of YouTube videos. His composition, “Monkeys Spinning Monkeys,” has been played on TikTok over 31 billion times. (PS: He has plenty of money, in part because so many appreciative people give him free-will donations through his Patreon page.) I propose we make him your inspirational role model in the coming weeks and months, Libra. How could you parlay your generosity and gifts into huge benefits for yourself?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): According to my grandmother, I have such a mellifluous voice I should have pursued a career as a newscaster or DJ on the radio. In eighth grade, my science teacher admired my work and urged me to become a professional biologist. When I attended Duke University, my religious studies professor advised me to follow his path. Over the years, many others have offered their opinions about who I should be. As much as I appreciated their suggestions, I have always trusted one authority: my muses. In the coming weeks and months, Scorpio, you may, too, receive abundant advice about your best possible path. You may be pressured to live up to others’ expectations. But I encourage you to do as I have done. Trust your inner advisors.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I invite you to get a head start on formulating your New Year’s resolutions. January 1 is a good time to instigate robust new approaches to living your life, but the coming weeks will be an even better time for you Sagittarians. To get yourself in the mood, imagine you have arrived at Day Zero, Year One. Simulate the feeling of being empty and open and fertile. Imagine that nothing binds you or inhibits you. Assume that the whole world is eager to know what you want. Act as if you have nothing to prove to anyone and everything to gain by being audacious and adventurous.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): There was a long period when many popular songs didn’t come to a distinct end. Instead, they faded out. The volume would gradually diminish as a catchy riff repeated over and over again. As you approach a natural climax to one of your cycles, Capricorn, I recommend that you borrow the fade-out as a metaphorical strategy. In my astrological opinion, it’s best not to finish abruptly. See if you can create a slow, artful ebb or a gradual, graceful dissolution.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When he was young, Aquarian musician and sound engineer Norio Ohga wrote a critical letter to the electronics company now known as Sony. He complained in detail about the failings of their products. Instead of being defensive, executives at the company heeded Ohga’s suggestions for improvement. They even hired him as an employee and ultimately made him president of the company at age 40. He went on to have a stellar career as an innovator. In the spirit of the Sony executives, I recommend that you seek feedback and advice from potential helpers who are the caliber of Norio Ohga. The information you gather in the coming weeks could prove to be highly beneficial.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): What would your paradise look and feel like? If you could remake the world to suit your precise needs for maximum freedom, well-being and inspiration, what changes would you instigate? Now is an excellent time to ponder these possibilities, Pisces. You have more ability than usual to shape and influence the environments where you hang out. And a good way to rouse this power is to imagine your ideal conditions. Be bold and vivid. Amuse yourself with extravagant and ebullient fantasies as you envision your perfect world.

Homework: What do you really want but think you shouldn’t want? Can you find a loophole? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

Love & Crafts

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Love & Crafts

Larkspur

‘Love Letters’

The Pulitzer-nominated play, Love Letters by A.R. Gurney, returns to the stage at the Lark Theater, starring Bay Area acting legends Nancy Carlin and Howard Swain. This poignant and humorous performance traces the lifelong connection of two childhood friends through the letters they exchanged over decades. First performed in 1988, Love Letters has captivated audiences with its simplicity and emotional resonance. It requires no elaborate sets or memorized lines—just two actors and the power of their words. Directed by Lee Sankowich and produced by Ellie Mednick, this live production celebrates the timeless allure of Gurney’s masterpiece. Tickets: $45 for members, $50 for general admission. 7pm, Thursday, Dec. 5, and 2pm, Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Lark Theater, 549 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur.

Marin County

Early Registration for ‘Open Studios’ 

The annual Marin Open Studios event, wherein the public can visit artists in their studios and browse and purchase their art, is among the highlights of Marin County’s vital arts scene. Artists considering sharing their work in its natural habitat are encouraged to opt into the event’s “early bird” registration, which is currently open through Jan. 30 with a reduced fee of $300. General registration runs from Jan. 31 to April 1 and is $325. To register and for more information, visit the Marin Open Studios Artist Portal at bit.ly/MOS-2025.

Petaluma

‘Crafterino’ Returns 

Petaluma’s handmade holiday tradition returns with the 13th Annual Holiday Crafterino. Showcasing over 50 local artisans offering handcrafted clothing, jewelry, food items, artwork and more, this year’s event includes “Youth Booths,” which highlights emerging young talent and bespoke items, at all price points perfect for holiday gift-giving. Admission is just $2 (kids under 12 are free), and all proceeds support COTS (Committee on the Shelterless). Those who arrive early have a shot at one of 100 swag bags packed with local goodies. And they can stick around for hourly raffles featuring prizes like jewelry, glassware and even hotel stays. Food and baked goods by Project Graduation will also be available. 10am-4pm, Saturday, Nov. 23, at the Petaluma Veterans Memorial Building, 1094 Petaluma Blvd. S. Parking is free behind the venue, but walking, biking or carpooling is encouraged.

Healdsburg

Wreath Workshop

It’s time to celebrate the season with a hands-on holiday wreath-making workshop crafted for joy and creativity. Hosted by the Appellation experiential learning program, co-founded by Sonoma County icons chef Charlie Palmer and Christopher Hunsberger, this two-hour class blends artistry and festivity in the heart of wine country. Using freshly cut Sonoma County evergreens and reusable wireframes, participants will learn how to weave, style and accessorize their own beautiful holiday wreaths. The experience includes expert instruction on bow-making, care tips for wreaths, premium wines and gourmet snacks curated by Palmer. Tickets are $145 and include all materials for the handcrafted wreaths, which can be taken home. The event is suitable for all skill levels. 11am-1pm, Saturday, Nov 23, at The Setting Wines, 14210 Bacchus Landing Way, Healdsburg. appellationhotels.com/crafted.html.

Your Letters, 11/20

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Super Villain

“He vowed vengeance—and sought it with a fiery passion—crisscrossing the galaxy, (he) collected a raging horde of interstellar malcontents—they became an army, paid in (his) booty and answerable only to his demonic snarls.” But he wanted more than that. He sought “the power to imprison all his foes with the slightest thought.” 

As one of his minions told him, “Word of your return has spread throughout the stars. Every malcontent, pirate, merc, nihilist, psychotic and religious zealot in the galaxy is rushing to join your flock.” 

These quotations describe the deadly Marvel villain, Thanos. I found them in the graphic novel entitled Marvel-Verse Thanos, and they are attributed to Marvel writer Jim Starlin. Or maybe you thought I was talking about Donald Trump?

David Madgalene

Windsor

Quote-Gate 

Peter Behel wonders how “nine guns trained on her” is free speech. It is because Donald Trump was not calling for Liz Cheney to be un-alived. What he said was, “She’s a radical war hawk. Let’s put her with a rifle standing there with nine barrels shooting at her. OK? Let’s see how she feels about it, you know, when the guns are trained on her face.” He was talking about sending our young men and women into war without as much skin in the game.

The video is there to see for yourself. This is how rumor, innuendo and gossip lost it for the Democrats this time around.  

Eric Fransen

San Rafael

Fishwrap: The slow decline of the press

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Over the last few months, there have been several stories about the sorry state of the Western press, especially in the United States. 

While Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign was good for large cable news networks and to a lesser extent national periodicals like The New York Times, consolidation driven by profit-seeking had already deeply harmed smaller outlets, from televised local news broadcasts to small market newspapers.

At the same time, the hope of the early days of the internet, that access to information and diverse viewpoints from around the world would lead to a more educated public, has arguably led to the opposite. Most people now get their news from dubious sources like random posts on social media and streaming services like TikTok, where disinformation and misinformation is rampant.

One hope that has been held out for larger papers until recently is that billionaire owners can save them and that such noble philanthropists will allow these outlets to operate freely without putting their thumbs on the scale in terms of their coverage. The news that the owners of both The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times forced their editors to withhold endorsements during this year’s presidential election puts the lie to this.

It’s also been clear for quite some time that serious journalism, whatever its slant, will not be saved by online advertising; even well-funded outlets like Buzzfeed and, most recently, Messenger, that have attempted to mix news with content they hope will go viral haven’t found a way to survive using this already outdated model. 

With help from Joe Rogan and others in the new media that increasingly has replaced journalism with (misinformed) opinion, American voters have returned Trump to The White House, hoping that a narcissistic billionaire will shake things up in Washington and improve their lives. Only time will tell if this will prove as lucrative for media of all stripes as it was last time around or if he will live up to his promise to go after those he has long called “enemies of the people.”

Derek Royden is a Canadian journalist. 

The 2024 North Bay Music Awards, Best of the Best

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The 2024 North Bay Music Awards, Best of the Best

As 2024 winds to a close, Northern California residents are likely still a bit shell-shocked by end-of-year events. 

Fortunately, the Sonoma County music scene has rarely been more vibrant, with live music venues big and small attracting touring acts and incubating local music with pretty much something for everyone interested in any genre.

As you likely noticed, since we had a rousing turnout, the 2024 North Bay Music Awards (or NorBays) solicited your votes for favorite bands, performers and music supporters, and we have some winners!

Of course, anyone giving of themselves to put positive, creative energy into the world is automatically a winner in our book. Here are the 2024 North Bay Music Awards winners, as voted by the readers of the North Bay Bohemian, as well as some highlighted artists.

Best Blues and Best Northbay Vibe: Spike Sikes and His Awesome Hotcakes

Check out this very paper, and you’ll see several gigs by Spike Sikes and His Awesome Hotcakes any night of the week. While there’s no real way to prove the old idiom, “hardest working band in showbiz,” a quick peek at their events page makes that designation pretty hard to quibble with. A lively mix of blues, brass and soul makes Spike and his carb-loaded band not only the 2024 NorBay winner for Best Blues. They also captured the vote for Best Northbay Vibe.

awesomehotcakes.com

Best Live DJ: DJ Fabian

A Sonoma County mainstay for over 20 years, DJ Fabian won the vote for Best Live DJ. His fun mix of different genres infused with different eras can be caught throughout Sonoma County at weekly events and weekend parties. He’s also fully mobile, so give him a holler for your next event.

instagram.com/djfabiansf

Best Electronica: Eki Shola

Inspired by the devastating loss of her mother, Eki Shola decided she had to share the transformation she experienced through creating music with the masses. Self-described as “half-time electronic soul for the mind,” Shola has already caught the ear of bigger Bay Area and national radio. She also just got home from a tour of Japan, where she’s gaining popularity. For now, however, Sonoma County is home, and we’re proud to have her.

ekishola.com

Best R&B: The Soul Section

The mighty and mighty good Soul Section has once again captured the vote for local R&B faves. The band typically performs as an 8-piece and also brandishes a killer, all-female horn section. As more and more spots for live music with space for dancing open up, the more chances you’ll get to see these cool cats and kittens at a stage near you.

thesoulsection.com

Best Punk and Best Metal: BLVKOUT

Is it possible for a band to be both punk and metal? If you’ve heard local heavy hitters BLVKOUT, the answer is either “yes” or “I’m too scared to ask.” But seriously, BLVKOUT (pronounced “blackout”) seems like nice enough folks, and the 5-piece is picking up steam in and around Northern California as they take home a NorBay award for the second year in a row. Also, kudos to the band’s lead singer, Jay Williz, who blends just enough metal and punk with hip-hop to garner the NorBay for Best Hip-Hop Artist as well.

blvkoutband.com

Best Female Solo Artist and Best Songwriter: Ellie James

Ellie James is no stranger to NorBay voters, as she was awarded Indie Artist of the Year in 2020. She also captured the 2023 NorBay award for Songwriter & Female Artist of the Year, a feat which she can now brag about winning in back-to-back years as your 2024 selection for both as well. Boasting a mix of genuine and danceable, indie pop and rock, James is one busy gal, hitting the stages in and around Sonoma County on the regular.

thisiselliejames.com

Best Radio DJ: Doug Jayne

A musical mainstay in Sonoma County, as well as a local treasure and one heckuva guy, KRCB’s midday jock, Doug Jayne, was voted Best Radio DJ. Tune in to his weekday show from 1-3pm, aptly named Midday Music, and you’ll hear an eclectic blend of new and old with a more than occasional journey into random oddities and lots of prog rock. Jayne also co-owns The Next Record Store and frequently plays guitar and sings in and around the county. 

norcalpublicmedia.org/staff/doug-jayne

Best Country: Dry Creek Station

Country music has been mired in a bit of a personality conflict for the last few decades, so it’s refreshing to see readers selecting legit country locals Dry Creek Station as their favorite country band. These folks are old skool country, with fiddle, banjo and mandolin, as well as a pair of awesome vocalists, male and female. As if that wasn’t enough, their setlist manages to mix favorite country tunes while also adding some twang to pop classics and newer pop hits as well. 

drycreekstation.com

Best Folk: Dave Hamilton

If the name Dave Hamilton sounds familiar, you must be a fan of local music, as he’s been kicking around our fair county for well over 30 years. There’s simply not enough space in this NorBays award winner article to name all the bands, albums, shows and people he’s opened for and played alongside in that time. And he’s won more than a few NorBay awards as well. Hamilton also isn’t shy of playing live. You can find him out and about several nights of the week at a variety of venues, large, small and everywhere in-between.

davehamiltonfolkamericana.com

Best Indie: Evening Glass

Melodic-noise isn’t quite a genre yet, but local indie sensations Evening Glass certainly fit that designation. The 4-piece honed their sound during Covid seclusion and put out Steady Motion, a 6-song EP that garnered national acclaim. The range of influences in the band is almost as varied as their ages (20s-60s), which all adds to the intriguing blend of Northern California surfer vibe chill.

eveningglass.bandcamp.com/album/steady-motion

Best Music Venue: The California

There was a time in the ’80s and ’90s when downtown Santa Rosa was a hotbed of musical activity. Lately, there’s been stops and starts. But it’s a real joy to see newer club The California take the prize for best music venue. Located on 7th Street in Santa Rosa, the venue is an intimate one and features a very Sonoma County-esque slate of performers (Americana, blues, singer-songwriter) almost every night of the week. 

caltheatre.com

Best Male Solo Artist: Nate Lopez

Eight-string guitar virtuoso Nate Lopez is one of those musicians you really have to witness if you haven’t done so already. To say he “shreds” isn’t quite right, although it’s definitely true. To say his fingers are magic is impossible, but nonetheless, it’s a notion worth considering. What we’re trying to say is, your eyes and ears may not completely be on the same page when you catch Lopez playing his combo guitar/bass throughout Sonoma County. And catch him you should.

natelopez.com

Best Americana: Foxes in the Henhouse

Sonoma County faves Foxes in the Henhouse are not only stellar musicians. Their name is also a clever play on words, as is their music. The four women in the band play “Americana classics and lost gems.” But when the songs, typically written and performed by men over the years, come out through the amazing harmonies and female driven attitudes, they take on a whole new meaning. Plus, this band is a real hoot!

foxesinthehenhousemusic.com

Best Drag Show: Travel Daddyz ‘Witch Perfect’

The Travel Daddyz (a married couple) seem to be living their best lives as they travel the world and immerse themselves in the culture: wine, food, music, all the things that create bonds between strangers. The duo also presents themed drag shows around Sonoma County and beyond. Their take on the spooky season classic, Hocus Pocus, entitled “Witch Perfect,” is locals’ choice for best drag show of 2024.

traveldaddyz.com

Best Lead Vocals: Sophia Kandler

Twenty-one-year-old Sophia Kandler has some killer pipes, and she’s not afraid to use them while performing all over the North Bay. Maybe you caught her with her duo partner, Trey, when they perform as Sophie and Trey. Or, maybe you caught her out in front of local rockers 945 (who, incidentally, y’all voted as winners of the Best Rock NorBay). Wherever you’ve seen her, consider yourself lucky to say, “I saw her before,” because Kandler is a star on the rise.

instagram.com/so_kandler

Best Female Solo Artist & Best Songwriter

Ellies James

thisiselliejames.com

Best Jazz
The Dorian Mode

The doRiaN Mode explores the Great American Songbook as it dishes up vintage jazz, swinging R&B and soulful ballads.

Best Short Music Film or Documentary
Two Lions Bands
“It has been said that Two Lions roam within us all. They’re born to struggle, and it is up to us to unlock that inner conflict. “

Best Radio DJ

Doug Jayne

Best Hip-Hop

Jay Willis

Best Reggae

Sol Horizon

Best Dance Crew and Best Movement Choreography

Fargo Brothers

Best Music Instructor

Isabel Wundsom

Best Promoter

Scott Colson

Best Rock

945 Band

Make Tracks to Napa Valley’s Rail Arts District Holiday Market

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Make Tracks to Napa Valley’s Rail Arts District Holiday Market

Those whose notion of Napa and railways begins and ends with the Wine Train should know there’s local locomotion in another direction—the arts.

Rail Arts District Napa (RAD) invites visitors all aboard its annual Holiday Market, which features enough distinctive handcrafted gifts like pottery, scarves and other textiles, handmade soap, small prints and paintings, sculptures and succulent wreaths to make a porter wear a weight belt.

The market brings together unique creations from artists based in Napa, Sonoma and the surrounding region. This year, the festivities kick off with a fundraising party at 4–7pm, Black Friday, Nov. 29, followed by two weekends of continued fun—11am to 6pm, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, and Dec. 7 and 8, at Action Avenue Projects, located at 1621 Action Ave., Napa, in the Rail Arts District.

“Our second annual Holiday Market not only highlights the incredible talents of our local artists but raises vital funds for the Rail Arts District. This year, funds will support the redevelopment of the RAD near Action Ave. or ‘Action Junction,’” says Shelly Willis, executive director of RAD. 

This year’s Holiday Market will feature over 30 regional artists offering unique creations such as soap from J&L Soapworks, porcelain trays by Ianna Frisby, small sculptures by Gale Hart, mosaics from Mary Wilson, ceramics by Dania Lukey and jam from Napa Velo.

Early-morning shoppers can enjoy coffee from Ohm Coffee Roasters and breakfast breads courtesy of Kitchen Door to fuel their gift-hunting adventures. Likewise, local favorites such as St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery, Tannery Bend Beerworks, Napa Palisades Saloon and Kollar Chocolates will be on hand.

Proceeds from the market will directly benefit the redevelopment of the area near Action Avenue. Since its inception in 2016, Rail Arts District Napa (RAD) has been on a mission to “radically enrich” the community through public art. Spanning two miles from Napa’s Oxbow District along the Napa Valley Wine Train tracks, RAD showcases nearly two dozen works of art, including murals, sculptures and installations. With the funds raised from the Holiday Market, the district takes another step toward transforming semi-industrial spaces into thriving cultural hubs.

For shoppers, this market is more than an opportunity to find the perfect gift—it’s a chance to contribute to the local arts scene and help shape Napa’s creative future. 

Visit radnapa.org or follow RAD on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about the event and its vision for the community. 

Gifts for Fashionistas

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Gifts for Fashionistas

Sonoma style with Erin Mavis

After a 30-year career in the women’s apparel industry that took her from San Francisco to Boston, New York to Los Angeles, and back to Sonoma County, Erin Mavis’ self-branded boutique in the charming town of Cloverdale is known locally for stylish and sustainable fashion. The shop provides a hand-chosen collection of ethically made, high-quality clothing and accessories for women and has a following in the area.

“I fell in love with Cloverdale,” Mavis says of why she chose that location, “and it felt like the perfect place to put down roots for this next chapter.”

Her store, lovingly described as “a tiny shop filled with things I love,” reflects Mavis’ style philosophy: quality over quantity. The boutique is thoughtfully curated with long-lasting, well-edited pieces designed to be worn and loved again and again.

Step inside, and you’ll find a delightful mix of clothing, jewelry, accessories and home goods—all personally selected by Mavis. Every item tells a story, from timeless wardrobe staples to unique statement pieces. This isn’t a place for fast fashion or fleeting trends; it celebrates craftsmanship, style and substance. For Mavis, it’s all about creating a personal, authentic space focused on what’s important. 

Whether you’re looking for a signature holiday outfit, the perfect gift or a little something special for yourself, Erin Mavis’ flagship store is a must-visit destination in Cloverdale. If you can’t make it to Cloverdale, you can shop on the website or even on their Instagram. But if you can, stop by and experience the shop where every piece is a favorite and every customer feels at home.

Erin Mavis, 113 E 1st St., Cloverdale erinmavis.com

Ethical Clothing

With an emphasis on domestically produced and mindfully manufactured lines, this Petaluma boutique encourages an appreciation for quality items and classic design.

122 Kentucky St., Petaluma ethicalclothing-petaluma.com

Dressers

This second-generation woman-owned clothing shop offers a great selection of holiday outfits and gift accessories, including lingerie.

145 N Main St., Sebastopol dressersclothing.com

Gifts for Foodies: Saying ‘Cheese!’ Beyond the Snapshot

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Gifts for Foodies: Saying ‘Cheese!’ Beyond the Snapshot

Sonoma County’s rich cheesemaking tradition shines during the holidays, offering a perfect opportunity to savor and gift artisanal cheese. 

Wm Cofield Cheesemakers in Sebastopol crafts British-inspired cheeses, including their standout Bodega Blue, a Stilton-style favorite for holiday tables. In England, Stilton and Port are staples of holiday tables—a tradition that Wm Cofield Cheesemakers embraces with their Bodega Blue. Cheesemaker Keith Adams notes that nearly a third of their cheese sales occur between Thanksgiving and the New Year, reflecting the season’s demand for festive, artisanal offerings.

Additionally, consider such area offerings as Laura Chenel’s Cranberry Goat Log, Valley Ford Creamery’s Estero Gold Reserve and Bohemian Creamery’s Discreet Charms for elegant gifting. Petaluma Cheese Shop in (you guessed it) Petaluma highlights Andante Dairy’s Duet and Ballad cheeses, crafted by acclaimed cheesemaker Soyoung Scanlan. Petaluma Cheese Shop also offers charcuterie boards and fondue to-go for holiday entertaining (or any occasion).

Pt. Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co. offers a bountiful selection of cheese-themed gift packs, including one dubbed “Shades of Blue” for those feeling a little bluish, or at least cheesy, this season. Featuring three different blue cheeses plus a blue cheese spread, this package is a fine complement to martinis, salads, cheese boards, morning toast and general snacking. Likewise, the “Toma with Attitude” gift pack includes the farmstead’s “meltiest” toma, perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, cheesy potatoes or pasta recipes.

Whether you’re creating a festive spread or searching for the perfect gift, Sonoma County’s artisanal cheeses are sure to delight. 

Wm Cofield Cheesemakers 

Artisanal English cheeses, guv’nor.

6780 McKinley St. #110, Sebastopol

wmcofieldcheese.com

Petaluma Cheese Shop

Dozens of local and international cheeses and charcuterie.

112 Washington St., Petaluma

petalumacheeseshop.com

Pt. Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co.

One of Oprah’s “favorite things” in 2024.

pointreyescheese.com

Your Letters, 11/26

Root of All Imbeciles Lots of post-mortem essays appear in various “news” sources these days. I’m going to go ahead and blame global capital for the mess that has driven Americans to unprecedented levels of national stupidity.  Global capital is rootless. Rootless capital uproots people and communities, particularly in single-industry communities in red states. Uprooted people do stupid things, like turn over...
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Wildfire Roulette: Casino is risky business

Sonoma County residents are accustomed to the risks that wildfires pose. Earlier this year, we experienced a wildfire that prompted emergency responders to contain it swiftly. That forced residents into the all-too-familiar position of standing by for a potential evacuation order.This recent example underscores why it is so imperative that proposed development projects anticipate strained evacuation routes before bringing...
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Free Will Astrology: Week of Nov. 27

Free Will Astrology: Week of Nov. 27
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Renowned composer Mozart had a sister nicknamed Nannerl. During their childhoods, she was as much a musical prodigy as he. They toured Europe doing performances together, playing harpsichord and piano. Some critics regarded her as the superior talent. But her parents ultimately decided it was unseemly for her, as a female, to continue her development...
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Love & Crafts

Larkspur ‘Love Letters’ The Pulitzer-nominated play, Love Letters by A.R. Gurney, returns to the stage at the Lark Theater, starring Bay Area acting legends Nancy Carlin and Howard Swain. This poignant and humorous performance traces the lifelong connection of two childhood friends through the letters they exchanged over decades. First performed in 1988, Love Letters has captivated audiences with its simplicity...
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Your Letters, 11/20

Super Villain “He vowed vengeance—and sought it with a fiery passion—crisscrossing the galaxy, (he) collected a raging horde of interstellar malcontents—they became an army, paid in (his) booty and answerable only to his demonic snarls.” But he wanted more than that. He sought “the power to imprison all his foes with the slightest thought.”  As one of his minions told him,...
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Fishwrap: The slow decline of the press

Over the last few months, there have been several stories about the sorry state of the Western press, especially in the United States.  While Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign was good for large cable news networks and to a lesser extent national periodicals like The New York Times, consolidation driven by profit-seeking had already deeply harmed smaller outlets, from televised local...
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The 2024 North Bay Music Awards, Best of the Best

As 2024 winds to a close, Northern California residents are likely still a bit shell-shocked by end-of-year events.  Fortunately, the Sonoma County music scene has rarely been more vibrant, with live music venues big and small attracting touring acts and incubating local music with pretty much something for everyone interested in any genre. As you likely noticed, since we had a...
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Make Tracks to Napa Valley’s Rail Arts District Holiday Market

Those whose notion of Napa and railways begins and ends with the Wine Train should know there’s local locomotion in another direction—the arts. Rail Arts District Napa (RAD) invites visitors all aboard its annual Holiday Market, which features enough distinctive handcrafted gifts like pottery, scarves and other textiles, handmade soap, small prints and paintings, sculptures and succulent wreaths to make...
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Gifts for Fashionistas

Sonoma style with Erin Mavis After a 30-year career in the women’s apparel industry that took her from San Francisco to Boston, New York to Los Angeles, and back to Sonoma County, Erin Mavis’ self-branded boutique in the charming town of Cloverdale is known locally for stylish and sustainable fashion. The shop provides a hand-chosen collection of ethically made, high-quality...
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Gifts for Foodies: Saying ‘Cheese!’ Beyond the Snapshot

Sonoma County’s rich cheesemaking tradition shines during the holidays, offering a perfect opportunity to savor and gift artisanal cheese.  Wm Cofield Cheesemakers in Sebastopol crafts British-inspired cheeses, including their standout Bodega Blue, a Stilton-style favorite for holiday tables. In England, Stilton and Port are staples of holiday tables—a tradition that Wm Cofield Cheesemakers embraces with their Bodega Blue. Cheesemaker Keith...
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