No Mechanism Left

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No Mechanism Left

“There is no mechanism left but civil disobedience.” The chalk message remains on the curb at the site of Santa Rosa’s most raucous protest in the Andy Lopez saga. The quote by author and activist Chris Hedges may be all too true.

On Monday, the NAACP of Sonoma County sent a letter to the association’s national president, Esther Haywood, to thank her for her efforts surrounding the Ferguson situation. Ann Gray Byrd, president of the Sonoma County chapter, mentions the similar situation in Santa Rosa with Andy Lopez. “At the very least, you have gained the attention of the U.S. Justice Department—we have not.”

The situation in Ferguson become national news when police aggressively tried to quell a protest—a peaceful demonstration, at the time—taking place in the streets of the town, whose population is 70 percent African American. A week of tear gas, rubber bullets, looting, tanks on the street, dozens of arrests and violent threats against journalists prompted the state troopers, then the National Guard to step in.

The similarities of the situations are hard to ignore: unarmed minority teenager shot multiple times from far range by a veteran officer who was just doing his job. The outcomes are vastly different: in Santa Rosa, children walked out of school to participate in demonstrations; one protest closed part of the freeway for an hour; and a few protestors were arrested over the course of a month.

The shooting of Andy Lopez made national news, but did not spark a federal investigation. Yes, the Ferguson situation has gained the attention of the Justice Department, but considering how it happened, is that really what we want in Santa Rosa?

The deputy behind the gun that killed Lopez, Erick Gelhaus, has been exonerated of criminal charges and returned to patrol last week, 10 months after killing a toy gun-wielding 13-year-old.

America has become the neglected child that acts up for attention. But instead of listening and acting upon the screams for justice, our guardians just tell us to shut up, slap us on the back of the head, and remind us that “There’s plenty more where that came from.”

Perhaps all we have left is civil disobedience, but the word to emphasize is civil. Only beating hearts with loud voices can achieve the results that reckless action desires.

Aug. 28: Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes at 19 Broadway

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Aug. 28: Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes at 19 Broadway

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What happens when you gather a group of classically trained musicians, mix in a healthy dose of Louisiana funk courtesy of a New Orleans upbringing, and infuse them with mysterious alter egos bound only by their imagination? Quite likely you would end up with an irreverent, genre-bending ensemble much like Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes. This collective crew of fun-loving, funky flared performers play an endlessly fresh and danceable buffet of great music when they perform on national tours. Coming to Marin this week, Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes bring down the house on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 19 Broadway Club, 17 Broadway Blvd., Fairfax. 9pm. $10. 415.459.1091.

Aug. 29: Crazy Famous at Spancky’s

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Aug. 29: Crazy Famous at Spancky’s

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Two of the hottest up-and-coming bands working right now in the North Bay team up this week for a night that’s sure to rattle some windows and rock some worlds. Crazy Famous is a sizzling three-piece band that blends classic rock grooves and a hyperkinetic indie pop. Major Powers & the Lo-Fi Symphony perform a self-described “Adventure Rock” that encompasses elements of glam rock, piano-driven punk pop and songwriter-centric music. The two bands first came across one another when they played this year’s Bottlerock Festival in Napa, and now they bring their fast and fun styles together again, sharing the stage on Friday, Aug. 29, at Spancky’s, 8201 Old Redwood Hwy., Cotati. 9pm. $5. 707.795.7878.

Aug. 30: the Rolling Jays at the Forestville Club

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Aug. 30: the Rolling Jays at the Forestville Club

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Love the Grateful Dead but hate the band’s reputation for extended jams and excessive noodling? It’s true, those people exist out there—folks who like the spirited melodies and foot-shuffling rhythms, but whose attention spans start cutting out at the five-minute mark. Well, for all those fans come the San Francisco five-piece tribute band the Rolling Jays. The band doesn’t worry with hours-long drum solos or spaced-out jamming, instead focusing on simple and straightforward rock and blues tunes made for moving and grooving. The Rolling Jays bring their old-fashioned dance music to the woods of west Sonoma County when they play on Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Forestville Club, 6250 Front St., Forestville. 8:30pm. $5. 707.887.2594.

Aug. 31: ‘Remembering Playland at the Beach’ at Sebastiani Theatre

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Aug. 31: ‘Remembering Playland at the Beach’ at Sebastiani Theatre

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In the tumultuous history of San Francisco, two iconic spots still remain in the hearts of older generations and hold the imagination of those who never got to see for themselves. This week, a double feature of documentaries explores these two lost treasures of the city, and celebrates their legacy. ‘Remembering Playland at the Beach’ (2010) and ‘The Cliff House and Sutro Heights’ (2013) each look at the respective landmarks of SF lost to time and development. Filmmakers will be on hand for a Q&A after the screening. The two films play back-to-back on Sunday, Aug. 31, at Sebastiani Theatre, 476 First St., Sonoma. Noon. $10. 707.996.9756.

Letters to the Editor: August 27, 2014

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Letters to the Editor: August 27, 2014

Shedding Tears

Regarding Ms. Cameron’s letter last week (“Survivors of Suicide,” Aug. 20): I’m sorry to hear that those you come into contact with would have anything at all to say about your father’s suicide, let alone anything unkind. That said, why even bring it up? Especially when you seem to be in such pain from the baggage that you still insist on carrying.

You also not only do yourself a disservice but all others when you compare cancer to depression. I’ve had cancer and I’ve suffered from depression my whole life, and I can assure you, they are not the same, not even close. Have you had either, or are you testifying as a witness? And if you’re going to shed tears, why shed them for yourself and other survivors, unless you’re still feeling sorry for yourself? How about shedding a tear or two for those who also gave up and gave in the same day that Mr. Williams did but with one difference: they died alone in run-down motels or rooms that rent for almost nothing down on any town’s skid row. Who mourns their loss?

—David Dale

Sonoma

Children and Technology

A very balanced article (“The Digital Divide,” Aug. 13). Kudos to the author, and to the schools that are enabling children to grow up in a healthy, balanced relationship to technology.

—Parent of Three

Via online

Schools based on anthroposophy refuse outright to prepare children for life in a tech-driven world. Instead, they leave children without tools or an understanding that computers, mobile phones, iPads, etc., are just inanimate devices. The kids can come away believing the devices control their own behavior and even brain function, because, unlike their peers, they haven’t been taught something as basic as how to manage technology.

People pay good money for anthroposophical education, which is certainly their prerogative. But prospective Waldorf parents: don’t be surprised when you find yourself shelling out tutoring money on top of tuition because your children have been deliberately denied STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. At the same time, the children (and parents) are told they are getting some kind of superior schooling.

Digital divides are one thing. But deliberate digital divides in the name of absurd, esoteric beliefs from World War I–era Germany is about as counterintuitive as you can get in 2014. I guess some people think that is a good thing. Do your own research.

—Rain 17

Via online

One of the main architects of Common Core just went to head the SAT testing. The plan is to make Common Core mandatory learning for all Waldorf school and home educators if they wish to take the SAT exam in the near future.

Common Core, by big corporate business, is being run into schools through the iPadding of our children. No one is even mentioning the many ill effects of WiFi radiation proven by many scientific and medical studies.

Children need to unplug and connect back with their natural rhythms of the natural world, not get plugged into a culture that relies on technocracy, capitalizing on nature for net bottom line profit and shopping for personal pleasure as our primary value systems.

We are golden, we are stardust, and we must get back to our gardens.

—Jamie Lee

Via online

Me and the DMV

Count yourself lucky if you haven’t needed to go to the DMV in Santa Rosa. The conditions there are nothing short of scandalous. I had the misfortune of needing to visit recently. The only positive thing about that visit was the transaction itself, which took about one minute.

The office is obviously completely unprepared to handle the volume of traffic it receives. It’s as if it was brand-new and had no idea about what to expect. (The security guard mentioned that every day is about the same.)

The employees seemed totally unconcerned about the frustrations of their clients. It took hours to get through the front door (this was on a day with 90-plus degrees outside), with absolutely no accommodations available (how about providing a portable toilet or handing out water bottles to the people who pay their salaries?). Whoever runs this office is either a perfect example of the Peter Principle or is just totally indifferent to what goes on in his or her bureaucratic fiefdom.

What did I find upon entering the inner sanctum? Roughly 50 percent of the windows were unoccupied and with lots of empty chairs for the peons to rest on! One obvious way the long wait outside could be alleviated would be to add at least one person at the entrance desk to speed up the process, so that at least the people can get inside and sit down while waiting, or do we sense something nefarious in the air that things are the way they are on purpose?

—V. Svensson

Santa Rosa

Write to us at le*****@******an.com.

2014 Fall Arts Guide

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2014 Fall Arts Guide

SEPTEMBER

Sausalito Art Festival Sausalito has long been hailed as an artist’s paradise, so hosting this excellent arts fest is a no-brainer. This year marks the 62nd festival and features top-name musical entertainment (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Taj Mahal, Tower of Power) on three stages and gourmet food and beverages—not to mention more art than in some museums! Aug. 30–Sept. 1. Marinship Park, Sausalito. Saturday–Sunday, 10am–7pm; Monday, 10am–5pm. $5–$25; children under five are free. 415.332.3555.

Coahoma to Sonoma Blues Festival It takes 32 hours to drive the 2,134 miles straight through from Coahoma, Miss., to Petaluma, Calif., but don’t gas up the truck just yet. Lagunitas Brewing Company, the Bowker Family and KRSH radio have done the legwork, bringing the blues sounds of Patrick Sweany, Christone “KingFish” Ingram and Lightnin’ Malcolm to wine country. Sept. 1. Lagunitas Mini Ampitheaterette at Lagunitas Brewing Company, 1280 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. 10am–9pm. Free to all ages until 3pm, then $12 for ages 21 and over. Tickets only available through www.lagunitas.com.

Elvis Costello & the Imposters

Through his 35-year career, singer-songwriter Elvis Costello’s musical curiosity has made him one of the most versatile performers of his generation. Sept. 3. Green Music Center’s Weill Hall, 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 7:30pm. $25–$45. 866.955.6040.

Wine Country Ukulele Festival

Free live music kicks off the start of the festival Thursday, Sept. 4,
at Umpqua Bank (1065 Main St., St. Helena) with Heidi Swedberg and the Sukey Jump Band (5:30–7pm). The fun continues on Friday from 10am to noon at the St. Helena Farmer’s Market, followed by the Wine Country Ukulele Picnic at Lyman Park (1300 block of Main, between Pine and Adams) from 5:30pm to dusk. Saturday, from 10am to 5pm the festival will host jam sessions, flea market, ukulele lessons and giveaways. Brand-new this year is the all-festival dinner and jam led by Andy Andrews, held from 5pm to 8pm (free with festival admission). The festivities conclude on Sunday with “Aloha Day,” a celebration of Hawaiian music, arts, dance, crafts and food from 10am to 5pm at the Upper Valley Campus of the Napa Valley College. Sept. 4–7. Admission $15; kids under 12, free (extra charge for ukulele workshops). 707.226.7372.

Gabriel Iglesias Iglesias is one of America’s most successful standup comedians. His comedy is a mixture of storytelling, parody, and sound effects that bring his personal experiences to life. And though he starred in the Fluffy Movie, don’t hold that against him. Sept. 5. Green Music Center’s Weill Hall, 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. From $30. 866.955.6040.

Art for Life 2014 Support Face-to-Face Sonoma County AIDS Network and get some fine art at this 27th annual auction and party. Sept. 6. Sebastopol Center for the Arts, 282 S. High St., Sebastopol. 2–6pm. $75. 707.544.1581.

19th Annual Sebastopol Cajun Zydeco Festival This annual festival in Sebastopol infuses life with some good ol’ fashioned New Orleans spice. Lok for Creole United, Lawrence Ardoin, Andre Thierry and Zydeco Magic, Edward Poullard, Sean Ardion and Zydecool, Jeffrey Broussard and Rusty Metoyer storm the stage. Sept. 6. 11:30am–7pm (rain or shine), Ives Park, 400 Willow St., Sebastopol. Online tickets $22 at www.winecountrycajun.com; $25 at the gate. Kids under 12 are free.

12th Annual Chautauqua Revue The revue is back for its 12th year. New twists with musicians, storytellers, performers and clowns keep audiences on their toes while keeping certain traditions alive. Sept. 11–13. Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, 15290 Coleman Valley Road, Occidental. Thursday–Saturday at 7:30pm; children’s matinee, Saturday at 2pm. $23–$40. Kids under two are free; ages three to 15, $6. 707.874.1557.

Wells Fargo Center for the Arts The fall lineup is sure to please the palate of most North Bay arts enthusiasts, beginning on Sept. 11 with country music fave Jennifer Nettles; pop soul-girl Colbie Caillat on Sept. 20; original female rockers Heart on Sept. 25; pre–Snoop Dog pot proponents Cheech and Chong on Sept. 26; the S.F. Comedy Competition on Sept. 27; the Temptations and the Four Tops on Oct. 23; Vince Gill and the Time Jumpers on Nov. 8; jazz songstress Diana Krall on Nov. 13; and Daily Show alum John Oliver on Nov. 31. 707.546.3600. www.wellsfargocenterarts.org.

Wine Country Salsa & Bachata Festival The first two days of the third annual festival include guest instructors and floorshows at George’s Nightclub in San Rafael and J.A.S. Dance Academy in Santa Rosa. The next day is full of salsa and bachata workshops from world-renowned instructors, winetasting and barbecue; an after-party in Napa Valley conclude the festivities. Sept. 12–15. Finley Auditorium, 2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa. $40–$120. 707.293.4292.

Unity Festival The party returns for a fourth year, bringing with it all the glory of community. Focus the energies of the human spirit with your brothers and sisters through music, dance, art and education. The lineup includes Yellowman, Mystic Roots, Easy Star All-Stars, New Kingston, One Drop and others. Along the Russian River at the Guerneville Lodge. Sept. 12–15. 15905 River Road, Guerneville. $35–$265.

Sebastopol Building Convergence The Village Building Convergence is an annual collaboration and cross-pollination of neighbors, groups and civic partnerships working to transform public spaces in Sebastopol through “placemaking projects”—where locals come together to shape their common spaces in a way that promotes beauty and community.
Sept. 12–21. 707.228.8400.
www.sebastopolvbc.org.

Ben Harper Ben Harper is a sublime singer and guitarist adept at multiple genres, from gospel and soul to blues and rock and roll. This special acoustic concert showcases the artist stripped to his core. It’s just Harper and his timeless songs at the Green Music Center’s Weill Hall, 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Sept. 13. From $25. 866.955.6040.

Fiesta de Indepencia Celebrate Mexico’s independence with authentic food, music, games and activities for the entire family. Featuring mariachi bands, piñatas and a good deal of dancing— and don’t miss out on the salsa contest. Sept. 13. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark Springs Road, Santa Rosa. 1 pm. Free. 707.546.3600.

Old Grove Festival It’s hard to find a better amphitheater than the one at the heart of the Armstrong Woods. Headlining the festival are the Mother Hips with opening band Midnight North. Bring flashlights, seat cushions and warm clothes. Sept. 13. Redwood Forest Theater, 14107 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville. 4:30–10pm. $25–$60. Kids free with paying adult.

Petaluma Craft Beer Festival

Though there will be music by the Fossils, Randy and the Special Agents, Sugar Moon and Petaluma Pete, this event is really about the beer. A short list of the breweries participating include Henhouse, Lagunitas, 101 North, Moylan’s, Baeltane, Woodfour and St. Florian’s Brewery. Sept. 13, 1–5pm on Water Street in downtown Petaluma. $40 ($20 for designated drivers).
www.petalumacraftbeerfest.org.

Marin Symphony Waterfront Pops Concert Alasdair Neale conducts the second annual Waterfront Pops outdoor concert with “Hooray for Hollywood!” celebrating the music of movies. Bring a picnic and a blanket. There will be a fireworks display at the finale. Sept. 13. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 4–8:30pm. $20–$100; children under six, free. 415.479.8100.

Much Ado About Sebastopol

This fifth annual event fills the hole left when the Ren Faire pulled out of Novato’s Black Point, partnering with the many Renaissance guilds in the area to reproduce a merry autumn day in dear olde Elizabeth’s time, replete with fencing workshops, food and drink, vendors, turkey legs and oh, the costumes! Sept. 13–14. St. Ives Park, 7400 Willow Ave., Sebastopol. Saturday, 10–6pm; Sunday, 10–5pm. $25. www.muchadoaboutsebastopol.org.

New Century Chamber Orchestra: Carmen Returns

The orchestra, under musical director Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, returns with its most popular performance. Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite is a musical blend of witty arrangements and dramatic solos. The concert also highlights featured composer and guest clarinetist Derek Bermel. Sept. 14. Osher Marin JCC,
200 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael. 5pm. $29–$61. 415.444.8000.

Macy Gray Like a modern-day Billie Holiday, Macy Gray’s brilliantly distinct voice propelled her to national stardom with her first hit single, “I Try.” Now the singer returns with a new album, The Way, and a new batch of soulful R&B songs. Sept. 18. City Winery Napa. 1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $38–$50. 707.260.1600.

The B.R. Cohn Fall Music Festival The annual four-day benefit starts with a charity auction dinner, swings into outdoor live music by Huey Lewis and the News, Melissa Etheridge, the Wallflowers, Peter Frampton, Los Lonely Boys and others, and concludes with the celebrity golf classic. Sept. 19–22. B.R. Cohn Winery, 1500 Sonoma Hwy., Glen Ellen. 11am–6pm. $79–$1,000.

Napa Valley Aloha Festival

The Manaleo Hawaiian Cultural Foundation hosts live music and dance, Hawaiian food and arts and crafts. Sept. 20. Napa Valley Expo, 575 Third St., Napa. 10am–6pm. Free; bring a canned food for donation.

Floating Homes Tour The Sausalito water-bound community invites visitors into some of the world’s most unique and beautiful homes. On offer are food and drinks, local musicians and an art show and sale, but it’s the houses that are the main attraction.
Sept. 20. Kappas Marina, Sausalito. 11am–4pm. $35–$40. 415.332.1916.

Russian River Jazz & Blues Festival A rich tradition of blues and jazz continues with Boney James, Goapele, Larry Graham and Graham Central Station, Gary Clark Jr., Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings and Ana Popovic performing at the best little beach on the Russian River. A wine garden, international food court and kayaking or canoeing awaits. Sept. 20–21. Johnson’s Beach, 16241 First St., Guerneville. 10am–6pm. $50–$80 (weekend pass). Kids five and under, free. 707.869.1595.
www.omegaevents.com.

Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival

The sculpture, painting, ceramics and photography of some 150 different artists are on display under the beautiful trees of Mill Valley. This festival, with live music and children’s activities, makes sure that all profits
go to local schools and charities. Sept. 20–21. Old Mill Park,
320 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley. Saturday, 10am–5pm; Sunday, 10am–5pm. $5–$10; kids under 12 are free. 415.381.8090.

Napa Valley Open Studios

Studios from all stretches of Napa Valley are open for this 27th annual four-day self-guided tour, featuring artists of all diverse art forms. The event is juried, and unlike other open studio tours in the North Bay, the entire affair is run by the artists themselves. Sept. 20–21, 27–28. 10am–5pm. Maps and info at www.napavalleyopenstudios.org.

Poetry Walk Petaluma’s Poetry Walk is back for its 19th year. Events are scattered throughout Petaluma within easy walking distance of each other, featuring celebrated poets and music.
Sept. 21. 11am–7pm. Check website for venues and poets. www.petalumapoetrywalk.org.

Diana Ross One of the most iconic women in music returns to the North Bay as part of her new “In the Name of Love Tour,” a culmination of her musical legacy. Sept. 26. Green Music Center’s Weill Hall. 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 7:30pm. $65–$25. 866.955.6040.

Dana Carvey From his hilarious characters and impressions to his irreverent comic take on all things pop culture, Carvey continues to entertain audiences. He returns to the North Bay at the Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St., Napa. Sept. 26. 8pm. $50–$95. 707.259.0123.

Carlene Carter The daughter of country music legends June Carter Cash and Carl Smith, and granddaughter of “Mother” Maybelle Carter of the original historic Carter Family, Carlene continues the tradition with her impassioned voice and old-school country tunes. Sept. 27. City Winery Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $15–$25. 707.260.1600.

Earle Fest This year’s benefit for the Earle Baum Center for the Blind features Todd Snider, the Brothers Comatose, the Blues Broads and the Great Idea Band. There’ll be cold beer, as well as local wine and veggie options to fill sun-warmed bellies. Sept. 27. 4539 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa. 11am–6pm. $35, advance; $40, day of show. Kids under 10 are free. 707.523.3222.

Sonoma County Philharmonic

Previously known as the American Philharmonic Sonoma County, this community based, nonprofit organization celebrates a new beginning with “Petersburg Passion,” performances of Russian composers, with conductor Norman Gamboa and violinist Michael d’Arcy. Sept. 27–28. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.
$5–$15. www.socophil.org.

The 38th Annual Italian
Film Festival A chance to savor the Italian experience, this festival is an often sold-out event featuring Italian films shown over seven days. Sept. 27–Nov. 8. Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 5:30 pm. $14–$104 (series ticket). 415.473.6400.

OCTOBER

Robert Earl Keen His anthem is “the road goes on forever,” and for Keen, the party still hasn’t ended. The country-rock legend, celebrating the 30th anniversary of his debut album this year, comes to City Winery Napa,
1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. Oct. 1. $30–$40. 707.260.1600

Mill Valley Film Festival

Presented by the California Film Institute, this 36th annual event is always full of stars, with a complete lineup to be announced early in September. Known for its contributions to the Academy Awards, the fest features the best of independent and world cinema screening at four venues in Marin. Oct. 2–12. www.mvff.com

Nick Offerman: Full Bush

The actor is known best as the manly, stoic government employee Ron Swanson on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, though Offerman’s real-life manhood is now well-documented in his new book, Paddle Your Own Canoe. The epically coifed actor comes to Santa Rosa for one night of delicious living when he appears at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. Oct. 3. 8pm. $40–$55. 707.546.3600.

Sonoma County Harvest Fair

Hit up the World Championship Grape Stomp competition, slurp some wine and hitch a hay ride, or simply get down to some swingin’ music at this annual tradition. Oct. 3–5. Sonoma County Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa. Friday, 4–9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10:30–5pm. Gate admission is free with four nonperishable food items for the Redwood Food Bank, otherwise, it’s $5. Kids 12 and under are free. Tasting Pavilion tickets (all-inclusive), $55. Tasting Pavilion limited to 21 and over. 707.545.4203. www.harvestfair.org.

Fashion in the Vineyards

Benefiting the Boys and Girls Club Valley of the Moon in Sonoma, this catwalk showcases some of the hottest designers on the West Coast with food and drink provided by El Dorado Kitchen and Lasseter Family Winery. $250. Oct. 4. Lasseter’s Train Barn, 1 Vintage Lane,
Glen Ellen. 707.933.2800.
www.lasseterfamilywinery.com.

Storm Large & Le Bonheur

The musician, actor and author shot to national attention when she was a finalist on CBS’s Rock Star reality show in 2006. Now Storm Large and her band, Le Bonheur, are back from a national tour and performing from their new album of beautifully twisted music. Oct. 5. Green Music Center’s Schroeder Hall, 1801 E. Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 3pm. $25. 866.955.6040.

Calabash The 14th annual benefit supporting Food for Thought, the Sonoma County AIDS Food Bank, features a selection of fine food and wine, a silent auction of gourd art, tours of Food for Thought’s organic gardens and live music played on handmade gourd instruments. Oct. 5. 6550 Railroad Ave., Forestville.1–5pm. $45–$50.

Sonoma County Jewish Film Festival The SCJFF returns for its 18th year of showcasing films about Jewish life the world over, featuring documentaries, dramas and comedies. Oct. 7–Nov. 18. Rialto Cinemas, 6868 McKinley St., Sebastopol. 707.528.4222.
www.jccsoco.org

Santa Rosa Symphony: Heroes & Legends Conductor Bruno Ferrandis and pianist Yevgeny Sudbin pay homage to Richard Strauss on the 150th birthday of the composer, with his tone poem chronicling the adventures of German peasant folk hero Til Eulenspiegel. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm; Monday, 8pm. Oct. 11–13. Weil Hall, Green Music Center, 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 707.546.8742. www.santarosasymphony.com.

Sonoma County Art Trails With more than 160 participating artists, this annual tradition offers a self-guided opportunity to buy directly from artists and peek into their workspaces. The vortex of this popular event is the Sebastopol Center for the Arts Gallery which showcases the artists at its new venue at the revamped Veterans Building in downtown Sebastopol. Oct. 11–12, 18–19. 10am–5pm. Free. 707.829.4797. sonomacountyarttrails.org

Bioneers Summit Conference

Learn about groundbreaking ideas and discuss building a blueprint for sustainable systems at the 25th anniversary of the Bioneers Conference. Notable speakers include Wallace J. Nichols, Eve Ensler, Starhawk and the Rev. Cecil Williams. Oct. 17–19.
Marin Center, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 9am–5pm.
$175–$495. 877.246.6337.
www.bioneers.org.

Loudon Wainwright III The folk songwriter and celebrated humorist and actor is an astute lyricist and melodic vocalist. Heralded as the new Dylan when he emerged 40 years ago, Wainwright is still cranking out dynamic and original material. Oct. 18. City Winery Napa,
1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $40–$50. 707.260.1600.

di Party di Rosa A bit of sparkling wine won’t be the only jewels you’ll see at the Gatehouse Gallery for this 13th annual benefit art auction. After a silent auction, frolic over the lake for cocktails, music, “Dada-licious” dinner, desserts and, of course, dancing. Oct. 18, 5–11pm. $300–$3,000. 5200 Sonoma Hwy., Napa. 707.226.5991. www.dirosaart.org.

Leon Russell He’s collaborated with everybody in the book, and Russell’s solo, session, sideman and touring work is acclaimed across the country. The Oklahoma native brings his eclectic catalogue of country, blues, folk, and rock music to City Winery Napa. Oct. 23. 1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $30–$40.
707.260.1600.

Laurie Anderson

Composer, vocalist and writer Laurie Anderson has spent the last 30 years creating groundbreaking works that span the worlds of art, theater and experimental music. Her latest collection of songs, Language in the Future, continues her visionary output. Oct. 25. Green Music Center’s Weill Hall, 1801 E Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. 7:30pm. Starts at $35. 866.955.6040.

NOVEMBER

Hospice by the Bay’s Bewitching Magical Ball Nov. 1. Celebrating more than 35 years of care, the hospice puts on its annual gala, including hors d’oeuvres, dinner, cocktails and wine. Live auction, live music and lively dancing. Nov. 1. Marin Center Exhibit Hall, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 6pm. $250. 415.526.5500. www.hospicebythebay.org.

The 16th Annual Food & Wine Affair Russian River Wine Road gathers over a hundred local wineries for another delicious extravaganza of arguably the two best things in the world. Nab early tickets starting on Sept. 1—they sell out, and quickly. Nov. 1–2. Various locations in Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River Valley. 11am–4pm each day. $30–$70. 800.723.6336.

Napa Valley Opera House Gala The Napa Valley Opera House’s annual black-tie fundraiser auction. This year’s event includes a performance by Jamie Davis and his orchestra and a gala dinner by chef Ken Frank, followed by a live auction. Nov. 8. Westin Verasa. 1314 McKinstry St., Napa. 5pm. $350. 707.603.2333.

Santa Rosa Symphony: Poetic Inspiration Bruno Ferrandis conducts three revolutionary pieces, including Beethoven’s Symphony no. 7, with guest cellist Christian Poltera. Nov. 8–10. Green Music Center’s Weill Hall, 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park. Nov. 8 and 10, 8pm; Nov. 9, 3pm. 866.955.6040.

Ziggy Marley Reggae is in his blood, and now the son of Bob returns to the North Bay. His latest album, Fly Rasta, represents his most ambitious effort yet. Ziggy comes to the Uptown Theatre on Nov. 9, 1350 Third St., Napa. 8pm. $40-$75. 707.259.0123.

Psychedelic Furs & the Lemonheads Two of the best pioneers of the modern-day indie scene, these freewheeling acts team up for a night of classic hits and primordial chaos. Nov. 11. City Winery Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $38-$45. 707.260.1600.

David Sedaris With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris has become one of America’s preeminent humor writers. He is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today. Nov. 14. Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St., Napa. 7:30pm. $59. 707.259.0123.

Who’s Live Anyway? Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Joel Murray and Jeff B. Davis improvise comedy scenes with suggestions from the audience, just like their popular TV show Whose Line Is It, Anyway, but without the FCC to worry about. Nov. 15. Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa. 8pm. $39–$59. 707.546.3600.

Sonoma County Philharmonic: Musical Fantasies The orchestra is joined by Costa Rican pianist Manuel Matarrita and the California Redwood Chorale. The concert includes Dvorák’s Serenade for Winds and Mozart’s Piano Concerto no. 23. Nov. 15–16. Santa Rosa High School Auditorium, 1235 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. Saturday at 8pm; Sunday at 2pm. $10–$15. www.socophil.org.

Sinéad O’Connor The Irish singer-songwriter plays music off her brand-new album, I’m Not Bossy, I’m the Boss. Her passionate vocals and challenging lyrics are on display for two nights of powerful live shows and genre-crossing hits. Nov. 20–21. City Winery Napa, 1030 Main St., Napa. 8pm. $80–$100. 707.260.1600.

Midnight Surfer

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Midnight Surfer

‘I have a healthy appetite for music,” says Chuck Prophet.

The singer-songwriter is talking about his latest album, Night Surfer, his 13th release. “If I can find something I’m excited about or tap into some new vein, I can wake up halfway excited about making music. That’s the trick.”

Chuck Prophet & the Midnight Express play Rancho Nicasio on Aug. 31.

Prophet began his career in 1979, fronting the band Green on Red, and has been working solo since 1990. Often compared to rock contemporaries like Tom Petty and Big Star frontman Alex Chilton, Prophet’s passion for music remains strong.

“Well, I’m a late bloomer, I suppose,” Prophet says. “And you know, there were years where I probably wasn’t as into it as I am now. And it probably showed.”

Prophet references years when he battled drug and alcohol abuse, and his output was spotty. Sober for over 10 years now, his recent work sounds significantly leaner and meaner, with growing acclaim for his heart-on-a-sleeve writing and uninhibited performances.

Night Surfer was recorded in Nashville and Prophet’s hometown of San Francisco. He calls the album loosely conceptual. “All the little stories on the record add up to one big story. What that is, I’m not sure. But I’ll know it when it punches me in the face.”

Prophet’s personal stories never shy from heartwrenching, with songs like “Lonely Desolation” and “Wish Me Luck” exploring starkly dystopian themes. Yet the music keeps up a lively rhythm and tight hooks, courtesy of guest guitarist Peter Buck.

Prophet and the REM guitarist have been close since meeting at a show in Berkeley some 30 years ago. “I hadn’t seen him for some years, but then I went to a Baseball Project show. Peter was playing bass with them, and he walked up to me and starting chatting. It was like we were continuing the same conversation all these years later,” recalls Prophet. “I’ll tell you what—the man is a hook machine. A hook machine. He really gave the record some extra jangle and hooks.”

Night Surfer will be released on Sept. 23 on Yep Roc Records. Until then, the only way to hear the songs is to experience them live. Prophet & the Midnight Express have been on the road throughout the summer, and this fall sees the band touring Europe. Before departing, Prophet plays an afternoon outdoor set with a full barbecue. It’s a great chance to get the first listen of a dynamic new record.

Chuck Prophet & the Midnight Express play on Sunday, Aug. 31, at Rancho Nicasio, 1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio. 4pm. $20. 415.662.2219.

Glasses of Chard

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Glasses of Chard

Vintage Panther 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($17) Sales benefit the Santa Rosa High School agriculture program. What a difference since my school days, the aggies now all la-di-da with their Chardonnay. And this wine is different, with a honeyed scent more like rich, vintage sparkling—Gloria Ferrer’s Royal Cuvée comes to mind—and appealing, baked-in butteriness like nothing so much as Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies, while the oily mouthfeel mimics some crazy Roussanne. The finish may be as directionless as a recent graduate with lax college counseling—but no, it’s not bitter. Order from www.srhsagboosters.com.

Paro 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($30) In this lineup, you’d think that caramel had gone out of style, but this 160-case bottling shows that a little can add a lot of charm. The aroma is cool, subdued and enticing, like caramel chews and lemon merengue pie inside a snow cone. Crisp acidity brings the sweet caramel core into focus, and oak doesn’t get in the way.

Landmark 2012 Overlook Chardonnay ($22.50) Oaky, lemony aromas of high-quality polished furniture and sliced apples in Eureka lemon juice open to baked apple and walnut. Tart, tongue-tingling apple and lemon drop flavors finish long and sweet. Good with Pt. Reyes Toma.

Folie à Deux 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($18) Serviceable Chard with Muscat-like aroma, oxidized apple juice and a hint of cinnamon. Flavors of apple cider and blanc de blancs.

Jordan 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($30) Frankly oaky—a stave thinly brushed with an aroma that might be called “Frosty Pear” if it was a Martha Stewart paint swatch. But the finish leaves an impression, and as the woody, lemon-tart wine warms it brightens up; even with a simple pairing like cheese and crackers, this restaurant-favorite “food wine”—a term that always strikes me as inelegant as, if more economical than, “wine for when you got somethin’ to eat on”—dances around the tip of the tongue like it was the star of the show all along.

Rodney Strong 2012 Sonoma County Chardonnay ($17) Nice oak, really fine quality oak, but more body that the nose suggests, and sweet, tongue-coating flavors of candied lemon and baked . . . lemon. Definitely Chardonnay-ish, no mistaking it. Zingy finish—it just needs fried chicken or breaded tilapia with creamy lemon sauce.

Arrowood 2012 Sonoma County Chardonnay ($25) More of the lumber yard than the orchard or dairy, but this does have moderately creamy and sweet apple-pie flavors, spicy acidity; a bitter, green grape finish.

Wake and Shake

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Wake and Shake

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, which monitors earthquakes, the so-called South Napa earthshaker on Aug. 24 registered 6.1 on the Richter scale and may have been the result of slippage along the West Napa Fault, which lies to the east of the city of Napa and America Canyon, the burgs that bore the brunt of the quake.

“We’re busy, but not quite as busy as yesterday,” Napa County spokesperson Molly Rattigan told Debriefer Monday morning. The county set up a dedicated phone line for residents who need to report structural damage, including and especially broken water and gas lines: 707.253.4417.

By Monday, there had been numerous aftershocks in and around the Napa Valley epicenter, but none affected clean-up efforts that started Sunday morning and continued through the week. Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency Sunday for Solano, Sonoma and Napa counties—but by Monday the state had declared that despite 50-plus aftershocks, the chances of another big one were remote.

Napa County set up an emergency operations center and got to work as the dust settled and wine flowed like blood through the scores of broken-up streets throughout the city of Napa.

Some other stats rolled in Monday: Up to 100 buildings in Napa were red-tagged by the county and deemed unsafe to enter, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The state reports that about 70,000 people lost power—but almost all of it was restored—and numerous fires in Napa that broke out Sunday have been brought to heel.

Rattigan says the emphasis now is to find shelter for those with damaged homes, restore services and reopen buildings closed in the emergency.

As of Monday afternoon, there were 208 patients at Queen of the Valley Hospital who had been injured during the quake, including three critical cases. No fatalities have been ascribed to the quake.

Meanwhile, the USGS has put out maps and charts detailing the extent and location of the earthquake. Its “ShakeMap” indicates that shaking associated with the quake extended at least as far as Cloverdale to the north, Bolinas to the west, Stockton to the east and Fremont to the south.

Bolinas residents saw minimal damage. No broken liquor bottles on the deck at Smiley’s Saloon, for example, as contrasted with thousands of bottles of Napa nectar destroyed in the quake.

One Bolinas resident reported that he had been bonked on the head with a falling book during the quake. Fortunately, it was a paperback.

A report from Sebastopol was similar to Bolinas: Two different people (including this reporter) thought the quake was just a bunch of animals fighting on the roof.

No Mechanism Left

“There is no mechanism left but civil disobedience.” The chalk message remains on the curb at the site of Santa Rosa’s most raucous protest in the Andy Lopez saga. The quote by author and activist Chris Hedges may be all too true. On Monday, the NAACP of Sonoma County sent a letter to the association’s national president, Esther Haywood, to...
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Aug. 28: Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes at 19 Broadway

What happens when you gather a group of classically trained musicians, mix in a healthy dose of Louisiana funk courtesy of a New Orleans upbringing, and infuse them with mysterious alter egos bound only by their imagination? Quite likely you would end up with an irreverent, genre-bending ensemble much like Jonny Sketch & the Dirty Notes. This collective crew...
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Aug. 29: Crazy Famous at Spancky’s

Two of the hottest up-and-coming bands working right now in the North Bay team up this week for a night that’s sure to rattle some windows and rock some worlds. Crazy Famous is a sizzling three-piece band that blends classic rock grooves and a hyperkinetic indie pop. Major Powers & the Lo-Fi Symphony perform a self-described “Adventure Rock” that...
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Aug. 30: the Rolling Jays at the Forestville Club

Love the Grateful Dead but hate the band’s reputation for extended jams and excessive noodling? It’s true, those people exist out there—folks who like the spirited melodies and foot-shuffling rhythms, but whose attention spans start cutting out at the five-minute mark. Well, for all those fans come the San Francisco five-piece tribute band the Rolling Jays. The band doesn’t...
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Aug. 31: ‘Remembering Playland at the Beach’ at Sebastiani Theatre

In the tumultuous history of San Francisco, two iconic spots still remain in the hearts of older generations and hold the imagination of those who never got to see for themselves. This week, a double feature of documentaries explores these two lost treasures of the city, and celebrates their legacy. ‘Remembering Playland at the Beach’ (2010) and ‘The Cliff...
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Letters to the Editor: August 27, 2014

Shedding Tears Regarding Ms. Cameron's letter last week ("Survivors of Suicide," Aug. 20): I'm sorry to hear that those you come into contact with would have anything at all to say about your father's suicide, let alone anything unkind. That said, why even bring it up? Especially when you seem to be in such pain from the baggage that you...
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2014 Fall Arts Guide

SEPTEMBER Sausalito Art Festival Sausalito has long been hailed as an artist's paradise, so hosting this excellent arts fest is a no-brainer. This year marks the 62nd festival and features top-name musical entertainment (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Taj Mahal, Tower of Power) on three stages and gourmet food and beverages—not to mention more art than in some...
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Midnight Surfer

'I have a healthy appetite for music," says Chuck Prophet. The singer-songwriter is talking about his latest album, Night Surfer, his 13th release. "If I can find something I'm excited about or tap into some new vein, I can wake up halfway excited about making music. That's the trick." Chuck Prophet & the Midnight Express play Rancho Nicasio on Aug. 31. Prophet...
Read more

Glasses of Chard

Vintage Panther 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($17) Sales benefit the Santa Rosa High School agriculture program. What a difference since my school days, the aggies now all la-di-da with their Chardonnay. And this wine is different, with a honeyed scent more like rich, vintage sparkling—Gloria Ferrer's Royal Cuvée comes to mind—and appealing, baked-in butteriness like nothing so much...
Read more

Wake and Shake

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, which monitors earthquakes, the so-called South Napa earthshaker on Aug. 24 registered 6.1 on the Richter scale and may have been the result of slippage along the West Napa Fault, which lies to the east of the city of Napa and America Canyon, the burgs that bore the brunt of the quake. "We're busy,...
Read more
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